Linda Thomas-Greenfield, US Ambassador to the United Nations said on Sunday (March 6) that US troops will not be 'on the ground or in the air' in Ukraine. She said doing this will "escalate this war and make this an American war against the Russians.". She was speaking during ABC's This Week with George Stephanopoulos.

"We've also been very clear that we will support Ukraine in every other way possible We have provided them over a billion dollars in support over the course of the past few days,"&nbsp;

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Thomas-Greenfield's remarks have come in response to Ukraine's requests to the West to toughen sanctions beyond existing efforts. &nbsp;It also requested more weapons, including a plea for Russian-made planes, to help it repel Russian forces.

The West, which calls Putin's reasons for invading baseless, has expanded effort to rearm Ukraine, sending in items from Stinger missiles to anti-tank weapons.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/3000-americans-volunteer-to-fight-invading-russian-forces-in-ukraine-says-report-459533">3,000 Americans volunteer to fight invading Russian forces in Ukraine, says report</a>

But Washington and its NATO allies have resisted Ukraine's appeals for a no-fly zone for fear that it would escalate the conflict beyond Ukraine's borders.

"It's not just, some rule you pass that....it's the willingness to shoot down the aircraft of the Russian Federation, which is basically the beginning of World War Three," Senator Marco Rubio (Republican - Florida) said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Linda Thomas-Greenfield, US Ambassador to the United Nations said on Sunday (March 6) that US troops will not be 'on the ground or in the air' in Ukraine. She said doing this will "escalate this war and make this an American war against the Russians.

Linda Thomas-Greenfield, US Ambassador to the United Nations said on Sunday (March 6) that US troops will not be 'on the ground or in the air' in Ukraine. She said doing this will "escalate this war and make this an American war against the Russians.". She was speaking during ABC's This Week with George Stephanopoulos. "We've also been very clear that we will support Ukraine in every other way possible We have provided them over a billion dollars in support over the course of the past few days," × Thomas-Greenfield's remarks have come in response to Ukraine's requests to the West to toughen sanctions beyond existing efforts. It also requested more weapons, including a plea for Russian-made planes, to help it repel Russian forces. The West, which calls Putin's reasons for invading baseless, has expanded effort to rearm Ukraine, sending in items from Stinger missiles to anti-tank weapons. Also Read | 3,000 Americans volunteer to fight invading Russian forces in Ukraine, says report But Washington and its NATO allies have resisted Ukraine's appeals for a no-fly zone for fear that it would escalate the conflict beyond Ukraine's borders. "It's not just, some rule you pass that....it's the willingness to shoot down the aircraft of the Russian Federation, which is basically the beginning of World War Three," Senator Marco Rubio (Republican - Florida) said. (With inputs from agencies)

No US troops will be 'on the ground or in the air' in Ukraine, says USA envoy to UN 

Russia and Ukraine traded blame for ceasefire breaches for a second day as a fresh attempt to evacuate Ukraine citizens from port city of Mariupol failed second time. More than 1.5 million people have fled Ukraine after Russia invaded the country on February 24.

The United Nations has already called Ukraine crisis "Europe's fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War 2"

Pope Francis on Sunday deplored the "rivers of blood and tears" flowing in Ukraine, as Washington cited "very credible reports" that Russia committed war crimes by deliberately attacking civilians.

Hundreds of civilians have been killed and thousands wounded, with hundreds of thousands of mostly women and children pouring into neighbouring countries such as Poland, Romania or Moldova for refuge.

After the West imposed unprecedented sanctions against businesses, banks and billionaires in a bid to choke off the Russian economy, US-based card payment giants Visa and Mastercard were the latest companies to announce they would suspend operations in Russia.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/3000-americans-volunteer-to-fight-invading-russian-forces-in-ukraine-says-report-459533">3,000 Americans volunteer to fight invading Russian forces in Ukraine, says report</a>

World leaders vowed further punitive action if Vladimir Putin failed to change course but the Russian leader has equated global sanctions with a declaration of war and has warned that Kyiv is "putting in question the future of Ukrainian statehood".

With a wary eye on Russia's nuclear stocks, NATO allies have so far rebuffed Ukraine's calls for a no-fly zone. Putin has threatened "colossal and catastrophic consequences not only for Europe but also the whole world" if a no-fly zone is set up.

In the latest sign that sanctions were biting, Moscow said Sunday that retailers in Russia will restrict sales of essential goods including bread, rice and flour to limit black market speculation.

Cracking down on dissent at home, Russia detained around 2,500 people across the country for staging protests against its military assault on Ukraine.

The Ukrainian military said Sunday it was engaged in "fierce battles" with Russian forces for the control of borders at the southern city of Mykolaiv and Chernihiv in the north.

"The main efforts are focused on defending the city of Mariupol," it said in a Facebook post, adding an operation by Ukrainian forces was also underway in the eastern part of the Donetsk region.

'Bodies everywhere'

Efforts Saturday to get people out of Mariupol -- one of the most ferocious scenes of war -- collapsed almost immediately with both sides accusing each other of breaching a ceasefire agreement.

A fresh attempt on Sunday again failed.&nbsp;

The strategic city of Mariupol on the Azov Sea has for days been under siege and without electricity, food and water, with stop-start ceasefires.

In a telephone call with French President Emmanuel Macron, Putin blamed Kyiv for not keeping to "agreements reached on this acute humanitarian issue," the Kremlin said.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-will-be-a-war-crime-ukraine-warns-russia-preparing-to-shell-port-city-odessa-459585">'This will be a war crime': Ukraine warns Russia preparing to shell port city Odessa</a>

But the governor of the eastern region Donetsk, Pavlo Kirilenko, said "the column to evacuate the population could not leave Mariupol... because the Russians regrouped their forces and started to bombard the city."

"It is extremely dangerous to get people out in these conditions," he said, adding that humanitarian aid from Zaporozhzhia also could not reach the people.

Very few refugees from the port city made it out on Saturday, but one family -- who did not give their names -- arrived in the central city of Dnipro and recounted their harrowing experience.

"We stayed in the basement for seven days with no heating, electricity or internet and ran out of food and water. We think we might be the only people to get out," one said.

"On the road, we saw there were bodies everywhere, Russians and Ukrainians. There was so much damage to the city. We saw that people had been buried in their basements."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia and Ukraine traded blame for ceasefire breaches for a second day as a fresh attempt to evacuate Ukraine citizens from port city of Mariupol failed second time.

Russia and Ukraine traded blame for ceasefire breaches for a second day as a fresh attempt to evacuate Ukraine citizens from port city of Mariupol failed second time. More than 1.5 million people have fled Ukraine after Russia invaded the country on February 24. The United Nations has already called Ukraine crisis "Europe's fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War 2" Pope Francis on Sunday deplored the "rivers of blood and tears" flowing in Ukraine, as Washington cited "very credible reports" that Russia committed war crimes by deliberately attacking civilians. Hundreds of civilians have been killed and thousands wounded, with hundreds of thousands of mostly women and children pouring into neighbouring countries such as Poland, Romania or Moldova for refuge. After the West imposed unprecedented sanctions against businesses, banks and billionaires in a bid to choke off the Russian economy, US-based card payment giants Visa and Mastercard were the latest companies to announce they would suspend operations in Russia. Also Read | 3,000 Americans volunteer to fight invading Russian forces in Ukraine, says report World leaders vowed further punitive action if Vladimir Putin failed to change course but the Russian leader has equated global sanctions with a declaration of war and has warned that Kyiv is "putting in question the future of Ukrainian statehood". With a wary eye on Russia's nuclear stocks, NATO allies have so far rebuffed Ukraine's calls for a no-fly zone. Putin has threatened "colossal and catastrophic consequences not only for Europe but also the whole world" if a no-fly zone is set up. In the latest sign that sanctions were biting, Moscow said Sunday that retailers in Russia will restrict sales of essential goods including bread, rice and flour to limit black market speculation. Cracking down on dissent at home, Russia detained around 2,500 people across the country for staging protests against its military assault on Ukraine. The Ukrainian military said Sunday it was engaged in "fierce battles" with Russian forces for the control of borders at the southern city of Mykolaiv and Chernihiv in the north. "The main efforts are focused on defending the city of Mariupol," it said in a Facebook post, adding an operation by Ukrainian forces was also underway in the eastern part of the Donetsk region. 'Bodies everywhere' Efforts Saturday to get people out of Mariupol -- one of the most ferocious scenes of war -- collapsed almost immediately with both sides accusing each other of breaching a ceasefire agreement. A fresh attempt on Sunday again failed. The strategic city of Mariupol on the Azov Sea has for days been under siege and without electricity, food and water, with stop-start ceasefires. In a telephone call with French President Emmanuel Macron, Putin blamed Kyiv for not keeping to "agreements reached on this acute humanitarian issue," the Kremlin said. Also Read | 'This will be a war crime': Ukraine warns Russia preparing to shell port city Odessa But the governor of the eastern region Donetsk, Pavlo Kirilenko, said "the column to evacuate the population could not leave Mariupol... because the Russians regrouped their forces and started to bombard the city." "It is extremely dangerous to get people out in these conditions," he said, adding that humanitarian aid from Zaporozhzhia also could not reach the people. Very few refugees from the port city made it out on Saturday, but one family -- who did not give their names -- arrived in the central city of Dnipro and recounted their harrowing experience. "We stayed in the basement for seven days with no heating, electricity or internet and ran out of food and water. We think we might be the only people to get out," one said. "On the road, we saw there were bodies everywhere, Russians and Ukrainians. There was so much damage to the city. We saw that people had been buried in their basements." (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine conflict: Evacuation efforts from port city Mariupol fail for second time

To ensure the safe evacuation of its citizens from war-torn Ukraine, India has launched a massive evacuation plan it's called operation Ganga under which several flights are flying out of Indian nationals out of Europe's evacuation centres.

Operation Ganga continues as India speeds up evacuation mission amid Russian invasion of Ukraine

A barrage of Russian missiles destroyed a civilian airport in Vinnytsia in central Ukraine on Sunday. Several cities and airbases in Ukraine have been bombed, shelled or hit with ballistic missiles since Russia launched its 11-day-old invasion.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Russia attacks civilian airport in Vinnytsia

To ensure the safe evacuation of its citizens from war-torn Ukraine, India has launched a massive evacuation plan it's called operation Ganga under which several flights are flying out of Indian nationals out of Europe's evacuation centres. Now, Prime Minister Narendra Modi again spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

PM Modi & Putin held 2 rounds of talks: Focus on the safety of Indian nationals in Ukraine

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, there is a mass influx of people out of Ukraine due to the humanitarian situation, the number of refugees could grow to 1.5 million.

Ukrainians abandon their homes: Unmitigated humanitarian crisis unfolds

The ordeal of refugees: Ukraine refugees could grow to 1.5 million as the Russian invasion rages on

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, Israeli PM Naftali Bennett met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at Moscow. The leaders discussed Ukraine crisis.

Israel PM Naftali Bennett & Russian President Vladimir Putin hold talks in Moscow on Ukraine crisis

After 10 days of intense fighting between the Russian and Ukrainian Armies, Russia had declared a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine to help open humanitarian corridors. However, Kyiv says that Moscow has violated the temporary ceasefire.

Russia calls end of ceasefire: Evacuation suspended due to multiple ceasefire violations

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is about to launch an international "plan of action" in his upcoming diplomatic meetings with Canadian, Dutch, and Central European leaders next week, to ensure Russia's invasion of Ukraine fails.

UK PM to launch international 'plan of action' against Russia's Vladimir Putin

UK PM Boris Johnson to launch international 'plan of action' against Russia's Vladimir Putin

The Ukraine conflict has been 'westsplained' enough. On Gravitas Plus, Palki Sharma tells you how Western arrogance & NATO's expansionism are also to blame, how their actions precipitated the crisis in Ukraine.

Gravitas Plus: Did NATO push Ukraine into war?

Russian President Vladimir Putin has once again set conditions for endling Moscow's invasion in Ukraine. Kremlin has announced that Russia will only halt its military operation if Ukraine stops fighting and Moscow's demands are met.

Russian President Vladimir Putin sets conditions to end Moscow's invasion in Ukraine

Russia has taken over the southern city of Kherson, the largest in Ukraine to be captured by Russian forces so far. However, the unarmed civilians bravely protest against Russian occupiers.

Hundreds of civilians come out in Kherson to bravely protest against Russian occupiers

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, Ukraine President Zelensky addressed anti-war rallies across the country virtually.

Ukraine President Zelensky speaks at anti-war rallies on day 11 of the Russian invasion

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, Israeli PM Naftali Bennett met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at Kremlin. The leaders discussed Ukraine crisis.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Israeli PM Naftali Bennett meets Russian President Putin at Kremlin

The Russia-Ukraine war is making headlines globally but, one name is going to be remembered longer than others, Volodymyr Zelensky. WION tells you how Ukraine won the narrative war due to its President.

Zelensky: Wartime leader on social media

Pope Francis on Sunday deplored 'rivers of blood and tears' in Ukraine and rejected Russia's assertion that it was just "a special military operation"

"In Ukraine rivers of blood and tears are flowing. This is not only a military operation but a war which sows death, destruction and misery," the pope said in his weekly address to crowds gathered in St. Peter's Square.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/3000-americans-volunteer-to-fight-invading-russian-forces-in-ukraine-says-report-459533">3,000 Americans volunteer to fight invading Russian forces in Ukraine, says report</a>

However, as has been the case throughout the 11-day conflict, Francis did not publicly condemn Russia by name for its invasion.

Instead, he repeated his appeal for peace, the creation of humanitarian corridors and a return to negotiations.

"In that martyred country the need for humanitarian assistance is growing by the hour," the pope said, speaking from a window overlooking the square. "Let common sense prevail, let us return to the respect of international law."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-will-be-a-war-crime-ukraine-warns-russia-preparing-to-shell-port-city-odessa-459585">'This will be a war crime': Ukraine warns Russia preparing to shell port city Odessa</a>

There were many more people than normal gathered infront of St. Peter's Basilica for the pope's Sunday appearance, with some holding aloft multi-coloured peace flags as well as the blue and yellow flag of Ukraine.

"The Holy See is willing to do all everything to put itself at the service of peace," the pope said, adding that two Roman Catholic cardinals had gone to Ukraine to help those in need.

"War is madness, please stop," the pope said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis on Sunday deplored 'rivers of blood and tears' in Ukraine and rejected Russia's assertion that it was just "a special military operation" "In Ukraine rivers of blood and tears are flowing.

Pope Francis on Sunday deplored 'rivers of blood and tears' in Ukraine and rejected Russia's assertion that it was just "a special military operation" "In Ukraine rivers of blood and tears are flowing. This is not only a military operation but a war which sows death, destruction and misery," the pope said in his weekly address to crowds gathered in St. Peter's Square. Also Read | 3,000 Americans volunteer to fight invading Russian forces in Ukraine, says report However, as has been the case throughout the 11-day conflict, Francis did not publicly condemn Russia by name for its invasion. Instead, he repeated his appeal for peace, the creation of humanitarian corridors and a return to negotiations. "In that martyred country the need for humanitarian assistance is growing by the hour," the pope said, speaking from a window overlooking the square. "Let common sense prevail, let us return to the respect of international law." Also Read | 'This will be a war crime': Ukraine warns Russia preparing to shell port city Odessa There were many more people than normal gathered infront of St. Peter's Basilica for the pope's Sunday appearance, with some holding aloft multi-coloured peace flags as well as the blue and yellow flag of Ukraine. "The Holy See is willing to do all everything to put itself at the service of peace," the pope said, adding that two Roman Catholic cardinals had gone to Ukraine to help those in need. "War is madness, please stop," the pope said. (With inputs from agencies)

'War is madness, please stop': Pope Francis denounces 'rivers of blood and tears' in Ukraine

Visa and Mastercard are suspending their operations in Russia in the latest blow to the country’s financial system after its invasion of Ukraine.

Visa, Mastercard halt operations in Russia over Ukraine invasion

The City Council of Mariupol has announced a temporary ceasefire to help evacuate civilians as well as the wounded and dead. The news comes after a Ukrainian-Russian agreement for humanitarian corridors out of the city broke down following reports of Russian shelling.

Fresh attempts of evacuation in Mariupol, second temporary ceasefire announced

After Visa and Mastercard suspended operations, Russian banks said that now they planned to issue cards using China's UnionPay system. Russian lenders like Sberbank and Alfa-Bank said that they are working on a rollout of UnionPay cards. 
Sberbank, in a statement said, "Sberbank is working on the possibility of issuing co-branded Mir-UnionPay cards. We will inform you later about the timeframe for the issue."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Alfa Bank said that it is "already working on launching cards on UnionPay, China's national payment system".

As per Russian news agencies, Rosbank, Tinkoff Bank, and the Credit Bank of Moscow (MKB) are also working on releasing UnionPay cards.&nbsp;

Visa and Mastercard on Saturday announced that they will suspend operations in Russia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-russia-claims-to-have-besieged-two-big-cities-in-ukraine-455211">Also read |&nbsp;LIVE | Russia planning to bomb port city of Odessa, alleges Zelensky</a>

"Noting the unprecedented nature of the current conflict and the uncertain economic environment," Mastercard said it had "decided to suspend our network services in Russia."

Visa, on the other hand, said that "effective immediately" it would "work with its clients and partners within Russia to cease all Visa transactions over the coming days."

As per the White House, US President Joe Biden, during a conversation with Volodymyr Zelenskyy, welcomed the decisions of Visa and Mastercard to suspend services in Russia.&nbsp;

"President Biden highlighted the ongoing actions undertaken by the United States, its allies and partners, and private industry to raise the costs on Russia for its aggression in Ukraine. In particular, he welcomed the decision this evening by Visa and Mastercard to suspend service in Russia," the White House said in a statement.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

After Visa and Mastercard suspended operations, Russian banks said that now they planned to issue cards using China's UnionPay system. Russian lenders like Sberbank and Alfa-Bank said that they are working on a rollout of UnionPay cards.

After Visa and Mastercard suspended operations, Russian banks said that now they planned to issue cards using China's UnionPay system. Russian lenders like Sberbank and Alfa-Bank said that they are working on a rollout of UnionPay cards. Sberbank, in a statement said, "Sberbank is working on the possibility of issuing co-branded Mir-UnionPay cards. We will inform you later about the timeframe for the issue." Meanwhile, Alfa Bank said that it is "already working on launching cards on UnionPay, China's national payment system". As per Russian news agencies, Rosbank, Tinkoff Bank, and the Credit Bank of Moscow (MKB) are also working on releasing UnionPay cards. Visa and Mastercard on Saturday announced that they will suspend operations in Russia. Also read | LIVE | Russia planning to bomb port city of Odessa, alleges Zelensky "Noting the unprecedented nature of the current conflict and the uncertain economic environment," Mastercard said it had "decided to suspend our network services in Russia." Visa, on the other hand, said that "effective immediately" it would "work with its clients and partners within Russia to cease all Visa transactions over the coming days." As per the White House, US President Joe Biden, during a conversation with Volodymyr Zelenskyy, welcomed the decisions of Visa and Mastercard to suspend services in Russia. "President Biden highlighted the ongoing actions undertaken by the United States, its allies and partners, and private industry to raise the costs on Russia for its aggression in Ukraine. In particular, he welcomed the decision this evening by Visa and Mastercard to suspend service in Russia," the White House said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

After Visa, Mastercard suspension, Russia to issue cards using China's UnionPay

Russia is currently stepping up and making advances in Ukraine. It has bombarded several cities and has also started to bring some cities under its control. &nbsp;

In a nutshell, Ukraine is not the place to visit at this point of time. But peculiarly, it has witnessed a huge surge in the number of Airbnb bookings, US media reports said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/3000-americans-volunteer-to-fight-invading-russian-forces-in-ukraine-says-report-459533">3,000 Americans volunteer to fight invading Russian forces in Ukraine: Report</a>

In 48 hours, guests from around the world booked more than 61,000 nights in Ukraine. The bookings were made on March 2 and March 3, as per a CNN report, which cited an Airbnb spokesperson. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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We booked some nights in Kharkiv on AirBnB to try to send some tangible, immediate assistance. I wrote the hosts a message and received this back. Only sharing in case you’re not sure if it’s a helpful thing to do. <a href="https://t.co/yGzRZVFflk">pic.twitter.com/yGzRZVFflk</a>
— Kirsty Webeck (@KirstyWebeck) <a href="https://twitter.com/KirstyWebeck/status/1499679523415392260?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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As these guests don’t intend to show up, the only reason seems to be to help Ukraine in this time of need, the reports said, claiming that most of these bookings were made from America. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-sought-fighter-jets-russian-oil-embargo-says-report-459441" hreflang="en">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sought fighter jets, Russian oil embargo, says report</a>

"I hope that you, and your lovely apartment, are safe and that this horrible war is over ... and Ukraine is safe...I will come and see you one day, please count on it, and will stay with you when we visit. God bless you and God be with you, your city, your country," a message attached to a booking read. &nbsp;

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In 48 hours, 61,406 nights have been booked in Ukraine. That's $1.9M going to Hosts in need 
 
Such a cool idea from our community. Thank you <a href="https://t.co/MEitgKB5Eo">https://t.co/MEitgKB5Eo</a>
— Brian Chesky 🇺🇦 (@bchesky) <a href="https://twitter.com/bchesky/status/1499867530772377604?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"We will be glad to see you in the peaceful city of Kyiv and hug," the host replied. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This social media campaign to channel money to Ukraine has become a hit. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russia is currently stepping up and making advances in Ukraine. It has bombarded several cities and has also started to bring some cities under its control. In a nutshell, Ukraine is not the place to visit at this point of time.

Russia is currently stepping up and making advances in Ukraine. It has bombarded several cities and has also started to bring some cities under its control. In a nutshell, Ukraine is not the place to visit at this point of time. But peculiarly, it has witnessed a huge surge in the number of Airbnb bookings, US media reports said. Also Read | 3,000 Americans volunteer to fight invading Russian forces in Ukraine: Report In 48 hours, guests from around the world booked more than 61,000 nights in Ukraine. The bookings were made on March 2 and March 3, as per a CNN report, which cited an Airbnb spokesperson. We booked some nights in Kharkiv on AirBnB to try to send some tangible, immediate assistance. I wrote the hosts a message and received this back. Only sharing in case you’re not sure if it’s a helpful thing to do. pic.twitter.com/yGzRZVFflk — Kirsty Webeck (@KirstyWebeck) March 4, 2022 × As these guests don’t intend to show up, the only reason seems to be to help Ukraine in this time of need, the reports said, claiming that most of these bookings were made from America. Also Read: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sought fighter jets, Russian oil embargo, says report "I hope that you, and your lovely apartment, are safe and that this horrible war is over ... and Ukraine is safe...I will come and see you one day, please count on it, and will stay with you when we visit. God bless you and God be with you, your city, your country," a message attached to a booking read. In 48 hours, 61,406 nights have been booked in Ukraine. That's $1.9M going to Hosts in need Such a cool idea from our community. Thank you https://t.co/MEitgKB5Eo — Brian Chesky 🇺🇦 (@bchesky) March 4, 2022 × "We will be glad to see you in the peaceful city of Kyiv and hug," the host replied. This social media campaign to channel money to Ukraine has become a hit. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid Russian invasion, over 61,000 Airbnb bookings made in Ukraine in 48 hours. Not for staying

While addressing a joint presser with Moldovan President, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that "US department has urged Americans to leave Russia immediately."

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Moldovan President and US Secretary of State holds joint presser

The United Nation has estimated that approximately 1.5 million Ukrainian citizens have been displaced during the country’s conflict with Russia. WION tells you more.

UN: Almost 1.5 million people displaced from Ukraine during Russian invasion

Italian police have seized luxurious properties like villas and yachts from high-profile Russians who were placed on an EU sanctions list after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Italian authorities seizes yachts and villas from Russian oligarchs

The next round of talks between Ukraine and Russia will be held on Monday, as the two sides try to negotiate a ceasefire as well as a safe passage corridor for civilians.

Russia, Ukraine to hold third round of talks on Monday

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has said that the chants for the club's former Russian owner Roman Abramovich from fans were not right during applause for Ukraine.

During the Premier League game against Burnley, tribute for Ukraine was interrupted by calls in support of the Russian owner, who is now selling the club.

"Listen, if we show solidarity, we show solidarity and we should do it together. We take the knee together. If an important person from another club or from our club unfortunately dies, we show a minute of respect. It's not the moment to give other messages. It's a moment to show respect," Goal.com quoted Tuchel as saying.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/first-start-shows-my-life-is-continuing-says-christian-eriksen-as-brentford-defeat-norwich-city-3-1-459522">First start shows my life is continuing, says Christian Eriksen as Brentford defeat Norwich City 3-1</a>

"We want that we do this because this is what we are as a club. We show respect as a club and we need our fans to commit to this minute of applause at the moment. We do it for Ukraine. There is no second opinion about the situation there and that they have our thoughts and our support, and we should stand together as a club. It is not the moment for other messages," he added.

A brace from Kai Havertz, and a goal each from Reece James and Christian Pulisic helped Chelsea thrash Burnley 4-0.

Earlier this week, Chelsea FC's Russian owner Roman Abramovich had confirmed he will sell the club after spending 19 years in charge of the club.

Abramovich has faced severe backlash due to his alleged close ties with Russia's President Vladimir Putin amid the country's ongoing military operation in Ukraine.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/22-injured-in-brawl-as-football-fans-storm-the-field-during-clash-between-queretaro-and-atlas-in-mexico-459515">22 injured in brawl as football fans storm the field during clash between Queretaro and Atlas in Mexico</a>

Following rising tension between Russia and Ukraine, the sports fraternity has become proactive and many events in Russia have been cancelled, including the Russian Grand Prix.

The Champions League final has also been moved out of Russia and it will now take place in Paris.

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has said that the chants for the club's former Russian owner Roman Abramovich from fans were not right during applause for Ukraine.

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has said that the chants for the club's former Russian owner Roman Abramovich from fans were not right during applause for Ukraine. During the Premier League game against Burnley, tribute for Ukraine was interrupted by calls in support of the Russian owner, who is now selling the club. "Listen, if we show solidarity, we show solidarity and we should do it together. We take the knee together. If an important person from another club or from our club unfortunately dies, we show a minute of respect. It's not the moment to give other messages. It's a moment to show respect," Goal.com quoted Tuchel as saying. ALSO READ: First start shows my life is continuing, says Christian Eriksen as Brentford defeat Norwich City 3-1 "We want that we do this because this is what we are as a club. We show respect as a club and we need our fans to commit to this minute of applause at the moment. We do it for Ukraine. There is no second opinion about the situation there and that they have our thoughts and our support, and we should stand together as a club. It is not the moment for other messages," he added. A brace from Kai Havertz, and a goal each from Reece James and Christian Pulisic helped Chelsea thrash Burnley 4-0. Earlier this week, Chelsea FC's Russian owner Roman Abramovich had confirmed he will sell the club after spending 19 years in charge of the club. Abramovich has faced severe backlash due to his alleged close ties with Russia's President Vladimir Putin amid the country's ongoing military operation in Ukraine. ALSO READ: 22 injured in brawl as football fans storm the field during clash between Queretaro and Atlas in Mexico Following rising tension between Russia and Ukraine, the sports fraternity has become proactive and many events in Russia have been cancelled, including the Russian Grand Prix. The Champions League final has also been moved out of Russia and it will now take place in Paris.

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel condemns Roman Abramovich chants during Ukraine solidarity gesture

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Since the invasion began, Ukrainian officials have urged foreign volunteers to help fight Russian forces. &nbsp;

Heeding to this demand,&nbsp;around 3,000 Americans have volunteered to fight Russian forces in Ukraine, a media report said, citing a representative of Kyiv's embassy in Washington.

Russia is continuously making advances in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Several Western nations have imposed sanctions on Moscow&nbsp;to put it on the back foot. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-sought-fighter-jets-russian-oil-embargo-says-report-459441" hreflang="en">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sought fighter jets, Russian oil embargo, says report</a>

Many countries have also provided several kinds of weapons to Ukraine to fend off the invading Russian forces. Till now, no nation has sent military forces to support Kyiv. &nbsp;

The "volunteers have responded to Ukraine's appeal for people to serve in an international battalion that will help resist Russia's invading forces", the representative told VOA News. &nbsp;

"Many more have stepped forward from other countries, most from other post-Soviet states, such as Georgia and Belarus," the official added. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/defying-ukraines-request-two-us-senators-share-zelenskys-pics-on-social-media-during-zoom-call-459516" hreflang="en">Defying Ukraine's plea, two US senators share Zelensky’s pics on social media</a>

This comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on March 3, the formation of an "international legion" of 16,000 foreign volunteers, who were being asked to "join the defense of Ukraine, Europe and the world", reported VOA News. &nbsp;

"We have nothing to lose but our own freedom," the president had said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Since the invasion began, Ukrainian officials have urged foreign volunteers to help fight Russian forces. Heeding to this demand, around 3,000 Americans have volunteered to fight Russian forces in Ukraine, a media report said, citing a representative of Kyiv's embassy in Washington. Russia is continuously making advances in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Several Western nations have imposed sanctions on Moscow to put it on the back foot. Also Read: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sought fighter jets, Russian oil embargo, says report Many countries have also provided several kinds of weapons to Ukraine to fend off the invading Russian forces. Till now, no nation has sent military forces to support Kyiv. The "volunteers have responded to Ukraine's appeal for people to serve in an international battalion that will help resist Russia's invading forces", the representative told VOA News. "Many more have stepped forward from other countries, most from other post-Soviet states, such as Georgia and Belarus," the official added. Also Read: Defying Ukraine's plea, two US senators share Zelensky’s pics on social media This comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on March 3, the formation of an "international legion" of 16,000 foreign volunteers, who were being asked to "join the defense of Ukraine, Europe and the world", reported VOA News. "We have nothing to lose but our own freedom," the president had said. (With inputs from agencies)

3,000 Americans volunteer to fight invading Russian forces in Ukraine, says report

The Mariupol port city of Ukraine, which is surrounded by Russian troops, will begin efforts to evacuate its civilian population on Sunday afternoon, after earlier attempts were thwarted by ceasefire violations.

Around 400,000 residents are currently trapped in the city. The evacuation would start at 12 pm local time (10 am GMT) on Sunday under a temporary ceasefire that will last till 9 pm ( 7 pm GMT)

"From 1200 (1000 GMT) the evacuation of the civilian population begins," city officials said in a statement, which said a ceasefire was agreed with Russian-led forces surrounding the city.

An earlier attempt to evacuate civilians by buses and cars along the road northwest towards Zaporizhzhia was halted on Saturday after both sides accused each other of shelling.

Ukrainian authorities accused the Russians of shelling even when civilians were gathering to form an escape convoy, but Moscow's defence ministry accused the city's defenders of exploiting a "human shield".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/3000-americans-volunteer-to-fight-invading-russian-forces-in-ukraine-says-report-459533">3,000 Americans volunteer to fight invading Russian forces in Ukraine: Report</a>

Meanwhile, British intelligence has claimed that Russian forces were targeting populated areas in Ukraine but that the strength of resistance was slowing the Russian advance, reported Reuters.

"The scale and strength of Ukrainian resistance continue to surprise Russia," British military intelligence said in an update.

Russia "has responded by targeting populated areas in multiple locations, including Kharkiv, Chernihiv and Mariupol."

Russia has repeatedly denied that it is targeting civilian areas.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-african-students-allege-racism-at-ukrainian-border-459437" hreflang="en">Indian, African students allege racism at Ukrainian border</a>

If Russian forces succeed in capturing Mariupol which held out against rebel forces in the previous 2014 conflict, they will control Ukraine's entire Azov Sea coast.

This would give them a landbridge from Russia to Russian-annexed Crimea and an important supply route and port if they decide to push north in a bid to take all of eastern Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Mariupol port city of Ukraine, which is surrounded by Russian troops, will begin efforts to evacuate its civilian population on Sunday afternoon, after earlier attempts were thwarted by ceasefire violations.

The Mariupol port city of Ukraine, which is surrounded by Russian troops, will begin efforts to evacuate its civilian population on Sunday afternoon, after earlier attempts were thwarted by ceasefire violations. Around 400,000 residents are currently trapped in the city. The evacuation would start at 12 pm local time (10 am GMT) on Sunday under a temporary ceasefire that will last till 9 pm ( 7 pm GMT) "From 1200 (1000 GMT) the evacuation of the civilian population begins," city officials said in a statement, which said a ceasefire was agreed with Russian-led forces surrounding the city. An earlier attempt to evacuate civilians by buses and cars along the road northwest towards Zaporizhzhia was halted on Saturday after both sides accused each other of shelling. Ukrainian authorities accused the Russians of shelling even when civilians were gathering to form an escape convoy, but Moscow's defence ministry accused the city's defenders of exploiting a "human shield". Also read | 3,000 Americans volunteer to fight invading Russian forces in Ukraine: Report Meanwhile, British intelligence has claimed that Russian forces were targeting populated areas in Ukraine but that the strength of resistance was slowing the Russian advance, reported Reuters. "The scale and strength of Ukrainian resistance continue to surprise Russia," British military intelligence said in an update. Russia "has responded by targeting populated areas in multiple locations, including Kharkiv, Chernihiv and Mariupol." Russia has repeatedly denied that it is targeting civilian areas. Also read | Indian, African students allege racism at Ukrainian border If Russian forces succeed in capturing Mariupol which held out against rebel forces in the previous 2014 conflict, they will control Ukraine's entire Azov Sea coast. This would give them a landbridge from Russia to Russian-annexed Crimea and an important supply route and port if they decide to push north in a bid to take all of eastern Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine’s Mariupol port city to resume evacuation today after ceasefire breach

It is day 11 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Armies of both countries have been involved in intense fights since Russian troops entered Ukraine. Watch this report to know more about the situation in Lviv.

WION reports from the frontlines in Ukraine: Lviv residents produce Molotov cocktails

It is day 11 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Armies of both countries have been involved in intense fights since Russian troops entered Ukraine. Russia has intensified attacks. In the latest, Ukraine shot down a Russian jet that sets ablaze several homes.

Reports: Ukraine shoots down Russian jet

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