The US State Department says India is reducing its dependence on Russian weapons and cancelling recent orders for fighter jets and anti-tank artillery. How has India reacted to these claims? How does Washington see India's non-alignment? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: US debates India's non-alignment on Ukraine

Russia has intensified crackdown on fake news and has reportedly blocked Facebook and Twitter. The Russian government has also blocked several media houses in the country including the BBC.

'Fake News' debate simmers in Russia: Facebook, Twitter blocked

What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin's former speechwriter Abbas Gallyamov spoke to WION as he attempted to decode him.</p>

<p>Gallyamov deemed Putin as a "rational" man. "He was always struck me as being absolutely rational. You could never think that he could ever be able to act so emotionally," Abbas said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking directly from Tel Aviv about the Ukraine invasion, Gallyamov said that in this case, Putin does have a "plan B".</p>

<p>"In this case, he was deceived..he was deceived by his own propaganda. He was trying to prove to Russians that Ukraine is weak and the Russian army is most powerful in the world."&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-russia-claims-to-have-besieged-two-big-cities-in-ukraine-455211https://www.wionews.com/world/live-russia-claims-to-have-besieged-two-big-cities-in-ukraine-455211"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;LIVE | Ukraine war: Needed 'harsh' fake news law due to 'information war': Russia</strong></a></p>

<p>Gallyamov believes that Putin did not so much convince Russians, as he convinced himself. "As he crossed the border, he started the action actually hoping that it would be something like it was in 2014 when he took over Crimea from Ukraine."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The situation now is different, Gallyamov said. "There is a legitimate president elected by the people."</p>

<p>"Putin, however, was unable to understand that. And now, he needs to improvise and is therefore pulling out the nuclear weapon threat," believes Gallyamov.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former speechwriter further said that this is about his image as he has always presented himself as a "strong man."</p>

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<p>Putin had declared "special military operations" against Ukraine on February 24 as Russian forces began pounding Kyiv with missiles and attacked Ukrainian cities.</p>

<p>The war has now entered its tenth day with heavy bombing campaign underway by Russian forces. Amid the fighting Western nations have announced waves of sanctions against Putin's regime although NATO has said it won't be sending its troops and planes to Ukraine.</p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin's former speechwriter Abbas Gallyamov spoke to WION as he attempted to decode him. Gallyamov deemed Putin as a "rational" man. "He was always struck me as being absolutely rational.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's former speechwriter Abbas Gallyamov spoke to WION as he attempted to decode him. Gallyamov deemed Putin as a "rational" man. "He was always struck me as being absolutely rational. You could never think that he could ever be able to act so emotionally," Abbas said. Speaking directly from Tel Aviv about the Ukraine invasion, Gallyamov said that in this case, Putin does have a "plan B". "In this case, he was deceived..he was deceived by his own propaganda. He was trying to prove to Russians that Ukraine is weak and the Russian army is most powerful in the world." Also read | LIVE | Ukraine war: Needed 'harsh' fake news law due to 'information war': Russia Gallyamov believes that Putin did not so much convince Russians, as he convinced himself. "As he crossed the border, he started the action actually hoping that it would be something like it was in 2014 when he took over Crimea from Ukraine." The situation now is different, Gallyamov said. "There is a legitimate president elected by the people." "Putin, however, was unable to understand that. And now, he needs to improvise and is therefore pulling out the nuclear weapon threat," believes Gallyamov. The former speechwriter further said that this is about his image as he has always presented himself as a "strong man." Putin had declared "special military operations" against Ukraine on February 24 as Russian forces began pounding Kyiv with missiles and attacked Ukrainian cities. The war has now entered its tenth day with heavy bombing campaign underway by Russian forces. Amid the fighting Western nations have announced waves of sanctions against Putin's regime although NATO has said it won't be sending its troops and planes to Ukraine.

Watch: 'He was deceived by his own propaganda': Putin's former speechwriter speaks to WION

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.

Day 10 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine: Ceasefire violation in Mariupol by Russia

Kyiv: Russia violates temporary ceasefire

<p>A British television crew was ambushed outside Kyiv earlier this week, leaving one journalist wounded, their employer Sky News said.</p>

<p>Stuart Ramsay, chief correspondent at Sky News, was hit by a bullet in the lower back on Monday as they drove towards the Ukrainian capital.</p>

<p>Sky News showed footage of the attack late Friday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putins-strategy-in-ukraine-invasion-has-stumped-us-defence-experts-459291">Russian President Vladimir Putin's strategy in Ukraine invasion has stumped US defence experts</a></strong></p>

<p>Two bullets hit a camera operator's body armour. The five-person crew escaped their car and waslater rescued by Ukranian police.</p>

<p>A Russian saboteur reconnaissance squad is suspected of carrying out the attack, Sky News said.</p>

<p>"Bullets cascaded through the whole of the car, tracers, bullet flashes, windscreen glass, plastic seats, the steering wheel, and dashboard had disintegrated," Ramsay said in a written account.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-invasion-parents-of-indian-student-reveal-that-missiles-are-falling-near-hostels-459279">&nbsp;Ukraine invasion: Parents of Indian student reveal that missiles are falling near hostels</a></strong></p>

<p>The news crew is now safe and back in the UK, while their Ukrainian producer is with his family in Ukraine.</p>

<p>"The point is we were very lucky," Ramsay said.</p>

<p>"But thousands of Ukrainians are dying, and families are being targeted by Russian hit squads just as we were, driving along in a family saloon and attacked."</p>


A British television crew was ambushed outside Kyiv earlier this week, leaving one journalist wounded, their employer Sky News said. Stuart Ramsay, chief correspondent at Sky News, was hit by a bullet in the lower back on Monday as they drove towards the Ukrainian capital.

A British television crew was ambushed outside Kyiv earlier this week, leaving one journalist wounded, their employer Sky News said. Stuart Ramsay, chief correspondent at Sky News, was hit by a bullet in the lower back on Monday as they drove towards the Ukrainian capital. Sky News showed footage of the attack late Friday. Also read | Russian President Vladimir Putin's strategy in Ukraine invasion has stumped US defence experts Two bullets hit a camera operator's body armour. The five-person crew escaped their car and waslater rescued by Ukranian police. A Russian saboteur reconnaissance squad is suspected of carrying out the attack, Sky News said. "Bullets cascaded through the whole of the car, tracers, bullet flashes, windscreen glass, plastic seats, the steering wheel, and dashboard had disintegrated," Ramsay said in a written account. Also read | Ukraine invasion: Parents of Indian student reveal that missiles are falling near hostels The news crew is now safe and back in the UK, while their Ukrainian producer is with his family in Ukraine. "The point is we were very lucky," Ramsay said. "But thousands of Ukrainians are dying, and families are being targeted by Russian hit squads just as we were, driving along in a family saloon and attacked."

Russia-Ukraine crisis: British journalist shot and wounded in Ukraine

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, several Ukrainian musicians are stranded in Italy. They say that their families were torn apart due to war.

Ukrainian musicians stranded in Italy amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

A day after Russian forces attacked and took control of a nuclear plant in Ukraine, the US said that it is a possible war crime committed by Russia.

US: Attack on a nuclear plant in Ukraine by Russia a possible 'war crime'

It is day 10 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 major Ukrainian cities.

Situation in major Ukrainian cities: No water, electricity in Mariupol amid Russian invasion

After Russia captured Europe's largest Nuclear plant, the United Nations Security Council held an emergency meeting over the issue. Ukraine said Russia to stop gaslighting on power plant.

UNSC holds emergency meeting: Ukraine says stop gaslighting on power plant to Russia

After 10 days of intense fighting between the Russian and Ukrainian Armies, Russia has declared a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine to help open humanitarian corridors.

Day 10 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine: Russia announces Ceasefire to form 2 green corridors

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, Ukraine President Zelensky made a clarion call to Europeans. German banners called world to stand with humanity.

Ukraine President Zelensky makes clarion call to Europeans amid the ongoing Russian invasion

The U.S. and its allies have slammed Russia over its attack on Ukraine’s nuclear power plant. How safe are Ukraine's Nuclear plants? Battle near nuclear facility raised concerns.

How safe are Ukraine's Nuclear plants? Battle near nuclear facility raises concerns

It is day 10 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. Now, Russia released attack video claiming an attack on military site.

Russia releases video claiming an attack on military site

<p>As the conflict intensifies in Ukraine, students have been struggling to move out of the embattled country. Meanwhile, parents of an Indian student stranded in Ukraine have said that their son was living in bunkers. They further revealed that missiles were falling near his hostel.</p>

<p>"There was a missile that fell down near their hostel, so they are very afraid about their life. Now they are getting a shelter by their own way," said Shibu, father of student Ciran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India is evacuating its citizens from neighbouring countries of Ukraine as the airspace of the country has been shut since Russia invaded it. The students have been advised by the government to move to the nearest countries from their place. These countries include Romania, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia and others.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/operation-ganga-three-iafs-c-17-aircraft-land-in-india-with-629-citizens-459139"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Operation Ganga: Three IAF’s C-17 aircraft land in India with 629 citizens</strong></a></p>

<p>This comes in when three C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force, carrying 629 Indians from neighbouring countries of Ukraine, landed at the Hindan air base near New Delhi on Saturday morning.</p>

<p>Till date, the IAF has flown 10 flights to bring back 2,056 passengers, while taking 26 tonnes of relief load to these countries, as part of Op Ganga, the IAF said in a statement.</p>

<p>Eleven more special civilian flights are also expected to land today with more than 2,200 Indians from Ukraine's neighbouring countries, according to reports.</p>

<p>So far, around 20,000 Indians have left the war-torn country since India issued its first travel advisories in mid-February.</p>

<p>More than 2,000 Indians are still stuck in Ukraine, the government said, adding that arrangements are being made to evacuate everyone.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As the conflict intensifies in Ukraine, students have been struggling to move out of the embattled country. Meanwhile, parents of an Indian student stranded in Ukraine have said that their son was living in bunkers.

As the conflict intensifies in Ukraine, students have been struggling to move out of the embattled country. Meanwhile, parents of an Indian student stranded in Ukraine have said that their son was living in bunkers. They further revealed that missiles were falling near his hostel. "There was a missile that fell down near their hostel, so they are very afraid about their life. Now they are getting a shelter by their own way," said Shibu, father of student Ciran. India is evacuating its citizens from neighbouring countries of Ukraine as the airspace of the country has been shut since Russia invaded it. The students have been advised by the government to move to the nearest countries from their place. These countries include Romania, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia and others. Also read | Operation Ganga: Three IAF’s C-17 aircraft land in India with 629 citizens This comes in when three C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force, carrying 629 Indians from neighbouring countries of Ukraine, landed at the Hindan air base near New Delhi on Saturday morning. Till date, the IAF has flown 10 flights to bring back 2,056 passengers, while taking 26 tonnes of relief load to these countries, as part of Op Ganga, the IAF said in a statement. Eleven more special civilian flights are also expected to land today with more than 2,200 Indians from Ukraine's neighbouring countries, according to reports. So far, around 20,000 Indians have left the war-torn country since India issued its first travel advisories in mid-February. More than 2,000 Indians are still stuck in Ukraine, the government said, adding that arrangements are being made to evacuate everyone. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine invasion: Parents of Indian student reveal that missiles are falling near hostels

<p>Amid the escalating tensions, Russia's defence ministry said that Moscow has declared a partial ceasefire on Saturday (March 5) to allow humanitarian corridors out of the Ukrainian cities of Mariupol and Volnovakha,&nbsp;Russia's RIA news agency reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As Russia's invasion of Ukraine entered into its 10th day, a channel for humanitarian corridors for the safe evacuation of civilians was agreed upon by Russian and Ukrainian officials during their second round of talks on Saturday (March 5).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia's defence ministry announced a ceasefire Saturday to allow residents of two besieged cities, including the strategic port town of Mariupol, to evacuate.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-missile-interrupted-kharkiv-bloggers-live-recording-during-russia-ukraine-conflict-459197">Missile interrupted Kharkiv blogger's live recording during Russia-Ukraine conflict</a></strong></p>

<p>"Today, March 5, from 10 am Moscow time, the Russian side declares a regime of silence and opens humanitarian corridors for the exit of civilians from Mariupol and Volnovakha," the ministry said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian government said the plan was to evacuate around 200,000 people from Mariupol and 15,000 from Volnovakha, and the Red Cross is the&nbsp;ceasefire's guarantor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, there was no immediate confirmation that firing had stopped and it was not clear if the ceasefire would be extended to other areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;How many civilians, troops have died till now?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Amid the escalating tensions, Russia's defence ministry said that Moscow has declared a partial ceasefire on Saturday (March 5) to allow humanitarian corridors out of the Ukrainian cities of Mariupol and Volnovakha, Russia's RIA news agency reported.

Amid the escalating tensions, Russia's defence ministry said that Moscow has declared a partial ceasefire on Saturday (March 5) to allow humanitarian corridors out of the Ukrainian cities of Mariupol and Volnovakha, Russia's RIA news agency reported. As Russia's invasion of Ukraine entered into its 10th day, a channel for humanitarian corridors for the safe evacuation of civilians was agreed upon by Russian and Ukrainian officials during their second round of talks on Saturday (March 5). Russia's defence ministry announced a ceasefire Saturday to allow residents of two besieged cities, including the strategic port town of Mariupol, to evacuate. WATCH | Missile interrupted Kharkiv blogger's live recording during Russia-Ukraine conflict "Today, March 5, from 10 am Moscow time, the Russian side declares a regime of silence and opens humanitarian corridors for the exit of civilians from Mariupol and Volnovakha," the ministry said. The Ukrainian government said the plan was to evacuate around 200,000 people from Mariupol and 15,000 from Volnovakha, and the Red Cross is the ceasefire's guarantor. However, there was no immediate confirmation that firing had stopped and it was not clear if the ceasefire would be extended to other areas. WATCH | How many civilians, troops have died till now? ×

Ukraine crisis: Russia declares ceasefire in two Ukrainian cities for evacuations

<p>Germany has pledged hundreds of anti-aircraft missiles to&nbsp;Ukraine. But several of them are useless Cold War relics from East Germany, a report said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Not just this, they are also packed in boxes so moldy that anyone who handles them needs to wear protective gear. &nbsp;</p>

<p>At least 700 of the 2,700 'Strela' anti-aircraft missiles, which Germany has earmarked for Ukraine are inoperable, Der Spiegel reported. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-intensifies-crackdown-on-fake-reports-blocks-twitter-facebook-459123">Russia intensifies crackdown on 'fake' reports, blocks Twitter, Facebook &nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>Ukrainian fighters are in dire need of advanced weapons to fend off the Russian invasion. But Germany is sending aging missiles, which are Soviet-made. They date from the era of pre-1990 East German National People's Army. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Russian invasion of Ukraine marks a turning point. It threatens our entire post-war order. In this situation, it is our duty to support Ukraine to the best of our ability in its defence against Vladimir Putin's invading army," German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said last week while pledging arms to Ukraine. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-south-koreas-polls-kim-jong-led-north-holds-2022s-ninth-missile-test-459144">Ahead of South Korea’s polls, Kim Jong-led North holds 2022’s 9th missile test</a></strong></p>

<p>The handpieces necessary for firing the missiles are also missing, the report added. The relics are also not safe to use, the report said citing a classified military document. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>No defective weapons would be sent to Ukraine, a spokesman for Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht told Der Spiegel. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;</p>


Germany has pledged hundreds of anti-aircraft missiles to Ukraine. But several of them are useless Cold War relics from East Germany, a report said. Not just this, they are also packed in boxes so moldy that anyone who handles them needs to wear protective gear.

Germany has pledged hundreds of anti-aircraft missiles to Ukraine. But several of them are useless Cold War relics from East Germany, a report said. Not just this, they are also packed in boxes so moldy that anyone who handles them needs to wear protective gear. At least 700 of the 2,700 'Strela' anti-aircraft missiles, which Germany has earmarked for Ukraine are inoperable, Der Spiegel reported. Also Read: Russia intensifies crackdown on 'fake' reports, blocks Twitter, Facebook Ukrainian fighters are in dire need of advanced weapons to fend off the Russian invasion. But Germany is sending aging missiles, which are Soviet-made. They date from the era of pre-1990 East German National People's Army. "The Russian invasion of Ukraine marks a turning point. It threatens our entire post-war order. In this situation, it is our duty to support Ukraine to the best of our ability in its defence against Vladimir Putin's invading army," German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said last week while pledging arms to Ukraine. Also Read: Ahead of South Korea’s polls, Kim Jong-led North holds 2022’s 9th missile test The handpieces necessary for firing the missiles are also missing, the report added. The relics are also not safe to use, the report said citing a classified military document. No defective weapons would be sent to Ukraine, a spokesman for Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht told Der Spiegel. (With inputs from agencies)

Useless Cold War relics? Hundreds of German anti-aircraft missiles pledged to Ukraine unsafe, says report

<p>Russia is all set to intensify its military aggression in Ukraine, US and Nato officials who have been monitoring the war have warned. As per a report, the officials have said that Russia is ready to 'bombard cities into submission.'</p>

<p>Speaking to CNN, a senior western intelligence official said, "The heavier weapons are not just heavier in there in the weight, they're also heavier in terms of the damage that they can inflict. And they're far less discriminant. So, more casualties.”</p>

<p>Russia will be deploying up to 1,000 more mercenaries to Ukraine in the coming days. This will be done to strengthen the units which have been severely affected in the past few days, states the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-russia-declares-ceasefire-in-two-ukrainian-cities-for-evacuations-459179"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Ukraine crisis: Russia declares ceasefire in two Ukrainian cities for evacuations</strong></a></p>

<p>The official deemed this as a "crude approach."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, as tensions escalate, Russia's defence ministry said that Moscow has declared a partial ceasefire on Saturday to allow humanitarian corridors out of the Ukrainian cities of Mariupol and Volnovakha.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Creating humanitarian corridors for the evacuation of civilians was agreed upon by Russian and Ukrainian officials during their second round of talks on Saturday.</p>

<p>Russia's defence ministry announced a ceasefire Saturday to allow residents of two besieged cities. "Today, March 5, from 10 am Moscow time, the Russian side declares a regime of silence and opens humanitarian corridors for the exit of civilians from Mariupol and Volnovakha," the ministry said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia is all set to intensify its military aggression in Ukraine, US and Nato officials who have been monitoring the war have warned. As per a report, the officials have said that Russia is ready to 'bombard cities into submission.

Russia is all set to intensify its military aggression in Ukraine, US and Nato officials who have been monitoring the war have warned. As per a report, the officials have said that Russia is ready to 'bombard cities into submission.' Speaking to CNN, a senior western intelligence official said, "The heavier weapons are not just heavier in there in the weight, they're also heavier in terms of the damage that they can inflict. And they're far less discriminant. So, more casualties.” Russia will be deploying up to 1,000 more mercenaries to Ukraine in the coming days. This will be done to strengthen the units which have been severely affected in the past few days, states the report. Also read | Ukraine crisis: Russia declares ceasefire in two Ukrainian cities for evacuations The official deemed this as a "crude approach." Meanwhile, as tensions escalate, Russia's defence ministry said that Moscow has declared a partial ceasefire on Saturday to allow humanitarian corridors out of the Ukrainian cities of Mariupol and Volnovakha. Creating humanitarian corridors for the evacuation of civilians was agreed upon by Russian and Ukrainian officials during their second round of talks on Saturday. Russia's defence ministry announced a ceasefire Saturday to allow residents of two besieged cities. "Today, March 5, from 10 am Moscow time, the Russian side declares a regime of silence and opens humanitarian corridors for the exit of civilians from Mariupol and Volnovakha," the ministry said. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia all set to 'bombard' Ukrainian cities ‘into submission,' will deploy 1,000 more mercenaries: Report

After 10 days of intense fighting, Russia announces temporary ceasefire to aid in evacuation

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, China at United Nations Security Council refrained from directly condemning Russia as reiterates the call for a political settlement.

China resists from directly condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraine at UNSC

The ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine is displacing millions of people. However, medical students in Ukraine from African nations allege discrimination against them during evacuation.

African students allege hostilities: Nigerian medical students return home

What is in Putin's mind? What are his plans and strategies as the conflict enters 10th day? Watch Russian President Vladimir Putin's former speechwriter on WION decoding him.

Watch Russian President Vladimir Putin's former speechwriter on WION decoding him

After 10 days of intense fighting between the Russian and Ukrainian Armies, Russia is all set to declare a ceasefire in Ukraine to help open humanitarian corridors.

Russia declares ceasefire for evacuation: Agreement during the second round of talks with Ukraine

Watch this report to know more about the Russian Oligarchs who are under the fire amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Which Russian Oligarchs have been sanctioned? How influential are they?

It is day 10 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.

Chernihiv: Multiple explosions were reported amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

Situation in major Ukrainian cities: WION reports from the frontlines in Ukraine

<p>In the wake of Ukraine’s invasion, numerous Western nations are imposing sanctions on Russian oligarchs. But who is an oligarch? &nbsp;</p>

<p>An oligarch is an extremely wealthy business leader, who is also politically connected. In 1990s, they became more prominent in Russia. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many of these oligarchs are heavily involved in Russian President Vladimir Putin's regime and serve important political positions. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-intensifies-crackdown-on-fake-reports-blocks-twitter-facebook-459123">Russia intensifies crackdown on 'fake' reports, blocks Twitter, Facebook &nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>The word ‘oligarchy’ has Greek origins. It is a combination of the word ‘olígos’, meaning ‘few’, and ‘arkho’, meaning ‘to rule or to command’. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Historically, an oligarchy is a form of governance. In it, rich and powerful people rule. With time, it has become a group of influential businesspeople, who are close to the ruling establishment in the country. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-end-ukraines-invasion-us-senator-calls-for-russian-president-vladimir-putins-assassination-458861" hreflang="en">To end Ukraine’s invasion, US senator calls for Russian President Vladimir Putin's assassination</a></strong></p>

<p>Oligarchies can also be categorised by one or several shared characteristics, such as fame, wealth, nobility, education, corporate, political, religious, military control, etc. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the collapse of the erstwhile Soviet Union in 1991, the oligarchs gained riches and power by utilising connection to the ruling establishments in Russia. They have profited from the privatisation and economic reforms in the country. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


In the wake of Ukraine’s invasion, numerous Western nations are imposing sanctions on Russian oligarchs. But who is an oligarch? An oligarch is an extremely wealthy business leader, who is also politically connected.

In the wake of Ukraine’s invasion, numerous Western nations are imposing sanctions on Russian oligarchs. But who is an oligarch? An oligarch is an extremely wealthy business leader, who is also politically connected. In 1990s, they became more prominent in Russia. Many of these oligarchs are heavily involved in Russian President Vladimir Putin's regime and serve important political positions. Also Read: Russia intensifies crackdown on 'fake' reports, blocks Twitter, Facebook The word ‘oligarchy’ has Greek origins. It is a combination of the word ‘olígos’, meaning ‘few’, and ‘arkho’, meaning ‘to rule or to command’. Historically, an oligarchy is a form of governance. In it, rich and powerful people rule. With time, it has become a group of influential businesspeople, who are close to the ruling establishment in the country. Also Read: To end Ukraine’s invasion, US senator calls for Russian President Vladimir Putin's assassination Oligarchies can also be categorised by one or several shared characteristics, such as fame, wealth, nobility, education, corporate, political, religious, military control, etc. After the collapse of the erstwhile Soviet Union in 1991, the oligarchs gained riches and power by utilising connection to the ruling establishments in Russia. They have profited from the privatisation and economic reforms in the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Weekend Special: Who is a Russian oligarch? Here's what you need to know

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<p><strong><em>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.</em></strong></p>

<p>In a shocking video, a blogger in Ukraine's second-largest city of Kharkiv can be seen running for his life when his video recording was interrupted by an airstrike that hit near him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The blogger named Nikita Demenkov recorded a video message for his followers to inform them about donations they had sent but the video also captured a missile exploding above him on Wednesday (March 2).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the viral clip that has been posted on his Instagram account in which he was seen seeking refuge in a basement after the explosion.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-intensifies-crackdown-on-fake-reports-blocks-twitter-facebook-459123">Russia intensifies crackdown on 'fake' reports, blocks Twitter, Facebook &nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CamaC3moSf1/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Nikita Demenkov (@nikita__demenkov)</a></p>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/green-light-for-bombing-zelensky-lashes-out-at-nato-for-ruling-out-ukraine-no-fly-zone-459118">'Green light for bombing': Zelensky lashes out at NATO for ruling out Ukraine no-fly zone</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Russia declared a partial ceasefire on Saturday (March 5) to allow humanitarian corridors out of the Ukrainian cities of Mariupol and Volnovakha, Russia's defence ministry said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"From 1000 am Moscow time (0700 GMT), the Russian side declares a ceasefire and the opening of humanitarian corridors to allow civilians to leave Mariupol and Volnovakha," Russian news agencies quoted the Russian defence ministry as saying.&nbsp;</p>


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. In a shocking video, a blogger in Ukraine's second-largest city of Kharkiv can be seen running for his life when his video recording was interrupted by an airstrike that hit near him. The blogger named Nikita Demenkov recorded a video message for his followers to inform them about donations they had sent but the video also captured a missile exploding above him on Wednesday (March 2). In the viral clip that has been posted on his Instagram account in which he was seen seeking refuge in a basement after the explosion. ALSO READ | Russia intensifies crackdown on 'fake' reports, blocks Twitter, Facebook Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Watch the video here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nikita Demenkov (@nikita__demenkov) × ALSO READ | 'Green light for bombing': Zelensky lashes out at NATO for ruling out Ukraine no-fly zone Meanwhile, Russia declared a partial ceasefire on Saturday (March 5) to allow humanitarian corridors out of the Ukrainian cities of Mariupol and Volnovakha, Russia's defence ministry said. "From 1000 am Moscow time (0700 GMT), the Russian side declares a ceasefire and the opening of humanitarian corridors to allow civilians to leave Mariupol and Volnovakha," Russian news agencies quoted the Russian defence ministry as saying.

Watch: Missile interrupted Kharkiv blogger's live recording during Russia-Ukraine conflict

<p>Manchester City's Ukraine international Oleksandr Zinchenko has questioned the refusal of Russia's leading footballers to speak out against their country's invasion of his homeland.</p>

<p>After Russia invaded Ukraine last week, FIFA and UEFA suspended the country from international tournaments, but none of the nation's top players has publicly criticised President Vladimir Putin's decision to go to war.</p>

<p>"I was surprised that no one, not one of them, from all of them" has said anything, Zinchenko told the BBC.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-man-city-expecting-difficult-challenge-against-aggressive-united-attack-says-pep-guardiola-459045">Premier League: Man City expecting difficult challenge against 'aggressive' United attack, says Pep Guardiola</a></p>

<p>"Most of them play in the national team and they have a lot of followers on Instagram, Facebook, wherever. And they can, they can at least they can do something to stop this war. Because the people can hear them.</p>

<p>"I already know that they (are) scared. But they're scared of what? They're not gonna do anything with them. At least they can say their positions, but they don't, they just ignore it. I don't know why."</p>

<p>Zinchenko was on the bench for City's first game after the invasion against Everton before being named captain for the FA Cup win over Peterborough on Wednesday. The 25-year-old said are never far from what is going on in his homeland.</p>

<p>"I'll be honest, if not for my daughter, my family, I would be there," he said.</p>

<p>"I'm so proud to be Ukrainian, and I will be forever for the rest of my life. And when you're watching the people, how they fight for their lives.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-like-buying-a-house-thats-very-expensive-advisor-claims-chelsea-wont-have-long-queue-of-buyers-458990">'It's like buying a house that's very expensive': Advisor claims Chelsea won't have long queue of buyers</a></p>

<p>"I know the people, the mentality of my people from my country, they prefer to die, and they will die. But they're not going to give (up)."</p>

<p>Zinchenko, who started his professional career with Russian club Ufa before joining City in 2016, said the ongoing situation is taking an emotional toll.</p>

<p>"I'm just crying," he said. "So already a week, I'm not counting, but even I can drive the car from the training ground, or it doesn't matter where, I can just cry from nothing."</p>


Manchester City's Ukraine international Oleksandr Zinchenko has questioned the refusal of Russia's leading footballers to speak out against their country's invasion of his homeland.

Manchester City's Ukraine international Oleksandr Zinchenko has questioned the refusal of Russia's leading footballers to speak out against their country's invasion of his homeland. After Russia invaded Ukraine last week, FIFA and UEFA suspended the country from international tournaments, but none of the nation's top players has publicly criticised President Vladimir Putin's decision to go to war. "I was surprised that no one, not one of them, from all of them" has said anything, Zinchenko told the BBC. ALSO READ: Premier League: Man City expecting difficult challenge against 'aggressive' United attack, says Pep Guardiola "Most of them play in the national team and they have a lot of followers on Instagram, Facebook, wherever. And they can, they can at least they can do something to stop this war. Because the people can hear them. "I already know that they (are) scared. But they're scared of what? They're not gonna do anything with them. At least they can say their positions, but they don't, they just ignore it. I don't know why." Zinchenko was on the bench for City's first game after the invasion against Everton before being named captain for the FA Cup win over Peterborough on Wednesday. The 25-year-old said are never far from what is going on in his homeland. "I'll be honest, if not for my daughter, my family, I would be there," he said. "I'm so proud to be Ukrainian, and I will be forever for the rest of my life. And when you're watching the people, how they fight for their lives. ALSO READ: 'It's like buying a house that's very expensive': Advisor claims Chelsea won't have long queue of buyers "I know the people, the mentality of my people from my country, they prefer to die, and they will die. But they're not going to give (up)." Zinchenko, who started his professional career with Russian club Ufa before joining City in 2016, said the ongoing situation is taking an emotional toll. "I'm just crying," he said. "So already a week, I'm not counting, but even I can drive the car from the training ground, or it doesn't matter where, I can just cry from nothing."

Manchester City's Oleksandr Zinchenko questions Russian players' silence on Ukraine invasion

Reports: Russia to declare a ceasefire in Ukraine to help open humanitarian corridors

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