Ukraine has claimed Russia is using a "vacuum bomb" in its invasion. Another report has claimed that a Russian mercenary group is in Kyiv to assassinate Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky. Palki Sharma brings you the latest.

Gravitas: Russia used a 'vacuum bomb' on Ukraine

Western weapons manufacturers are reaping huge profits from the war in Ukraine. Their share prices have increased manifold since the Russian build-up in November. Palki Sharma tells you how the western military-industrial complex benefits from endless wars.

Gravitas: Western companies profiting from Russia's war

Russia's economy is in crisis as sanctions begin to bite. The Ruble is now worth less than 1 US Cent. The Moscow Stock Exchange has been shut for 2 days. S&P has cut Russia to 'junk status' JP Morgan says, Russia could soon enter a recession. Palki Sharma reports.

Gravitas: Russia's Economy is in crisis: Here's why

From Ukraine's application for EU membership to Russia's shelling of Kharkiv, and Volodymyr Zelensky's powerful address to the E.U. Parliament, Palki Sharma brings you a round-up of the Ukraine war as it enters day 6.

Gravitas: Ukraine war enters Day 6: Here are the latest developments

On day 6 of the invasion, Vladimir Putin ordered the second wave of airstrikes. Most of the firepower was focused on the north-eastern city of Kharkiv. From the northern front, a 64 km-long Russian military convoy is heading towards Kyiv. Palki Sharma maps the Russian advance.

Gravitas: Tracking the Russian army's advance

An Indian student was standing in the queue for food - when he was killed in Russian shelling in Kharkiv. New Delhi has sought safe passage from Ukraine and Russia for Indian students. Who will ensure the safety of Indians in Ukraine? Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Russia is pounding Ukraine: Are Indian students safe?

From film studios halting releases of major upcoming films to artists cancelling live events, the west has taken a strong stang against Russia for invading Ukraine. Cannes Film Festival on Tuesday announced that it would not host the Russian delegation at the festival this year- scheduled to take place in May.

Hollywood takes a stand amid Russia-Ukraine crisis

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;is a man of many talents. In the past few weeks, Zelensky&nbsp;has been admired for his leadership even as Russia continues to invade Ukraine.&nbsp; 
 
Zelenskky was known to be a popular stand up comedian but Twitter is now going ga-ga over his dancing skills.&nbsp; 
An old video from 2006 has surfaced online which had Zelensky as one of the participants of the country's version of 'Dancing With The Stars'.&nbsp; 
 
Fans from Twitter to TikTok can't get enough of Zelensky’s perfect moves — including one number that saw him and his partner Olena Shoptenko donning full blindfolds as they mentally counted steps, hitting their marks with perfection. 
 
"I actually fainted tho ," one Tik Tok user captioned a clip of Zelensky and Shoptenko performing.&nbsp;

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Has anyone told Putin that his army has been massacred for 6 days by the 2006 winner of 'Dancing with the Stars'? 🕺💃✨❤<a href="https://twitter.com/DancingABC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DancingABC</a> 
As <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZelenskyyUa</a> has proven to be such a brave 🇺🇦leader, his epic dancing triumph is blowing people around the world away<a href="https://t.co/7mxqs8EroT">https://t.co/7mxqs8EroT</a>
— Mikhail Khodorkovsky (English) (@mbk_center) <a href="https://twitter.com/mbk_center/status/1498991623635718144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy first became a household name in his own country when he appeared on Ukraine's version of Dancing With The Stars in 2006 💙💛🇺🇦 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/zelensky?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#zelensky</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ukraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/checken?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#checken</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kiev?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kiev</a> <a href="https://t.co/5OizuKDM3q">pic.twitter.com/5OizuKDM3q</a>
— humanity (@weareukraine_) <a href="https://twitter.com/weareukraine_/status/1497832133355839488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky On 'Dancing With The Stars' <a href="https://t.co/1a54lpd9HU">https://t.co/1a54lpd9HU</a> <a href="https://t.co/ot2EPx5Mhi">pic.twitter.com/ot2EPx5Mhi</a>
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The videos surfaced just days after it was revealed that the President had done the voice over of the Peruvian Brean in the 'Ukrainian versions of 'Paddington' and 'Paddington 2'.&nbsp; 
 
"Until today I had no idea who provided the voice of @paddingtonbear in Ukraine. Speaking for myself, thank you, President Zelenskiy. #PaddingtonBear," British actor Hugh Bonneville had tweeted, alongside a video of Zelensky. 
 
Zelensky&nbsp;has been earning praise for engaging with his people on social media and stating that he had no plans to leave the country but fight the Russian troops instead.&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is a man of many talents. In the past few weeks, Zelensky has been admired for his leadership even as Russia continues to invade Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is a man of many talents. In the past few weeks, Zelensky has been admired for his leadership even as Russia continues to invade Ukraine. Zelenskky was known to be a popular stand up comedian but Twitter is now going ga-ga over his dancing skills. An old video from 2006 has surfaced online which had Zelensky as one of the participants of the country's version of 'Dancing With The Stars'. Fans from Twitter to TikTok can't get enough of Zelensky’s perfect moves — including one number that saw him and his partner Olena Shoptenko donning full blindfolds as they mentally counted steps, hitting their marks with perfection. "I actually fainted tho ," one Tik Tok user captioned a clip of Zelensky and Shoptenko performing. Has anyone told Putin that his army has been massacred for 6 days by the 2006 winner of 'Dancing with the Stars'? 🕺💃✨❤@DancingABC As @ZelenskyyUa has proven to be such a brave 🇺🇦leader, his epic dancing triumph is blowing people around the world awayhttps://t.co/7mxqs8EroT — Mikhail Khodorkovsky (English) (@mbk_center) March 2, 2022 × Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy first became a household name in his own country when he appeared on Ukraine's version of Dancing With The Stars in 2006 💙💛🇺🇦 #zelensky #ukraine #checken #kiev pic.twitter.com/5OizuKDM3q — humanity (@weareukraine_) February 27, 2022 × Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky On 'Dancing With The Stars' https://t.co/1a54lpd9HU pic.twitter.com/ot2EPx5Mhi — Ofilicon Media (@ofiliconglobal1) March 1, 2022 × The videos surfaced just days after it was revealed that the President had done the voice over of the Peruvian Brean in the 'Ukrainian versions of 'Paddington' and 'Paddington 2'. "Until today I had no idea who provided the voice of @paddingtonbear in Ukraine. Speaking for myself, thank you, President Zelenskiy. #PaddingtonBear," British actor Hugh Bonneville had tweeted, alongside a video of Zelensky. Zelensky has been earning praise for engaging with his people on social media and stating that he had no plans to leave the country but fight the Russian troops instead.

Watch: Old video of President Zelensky performing on 'Dancing With The Stars' goes viral 

Kharkiv is in the North East of Ukraine, it's just 25 miles from Russia and has a population of around 1.4 million people who are predominantly Russian speaking. Many in kharkiv have family or do business across the border which is why the Kremlin might have believed that it would face less resistance and that its residents will be more sympathetic to Moscow.

Kharkiv: Once a hub of poetry, now under Russian seige

After Russia's invasion of Ukraine the situation for foreign nationals stuck in the country has now become quite a nightmare. Amid the crossfire desperate to escape, thousands of foreign nationals have landed now at the Ukrainian- European border and hope to escape.

Plight of foreign nationals stuck in Ukraine

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Prime Minister Naftali Bennett says that both the leaders met to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine, the Iran nuclear talks in Vienna, and establish a new strategic partnership.

Germany and Israel's high-stakes meet for more Russia-Ukraine peace talks

There has been evidence of the Russian military committing war crimes in Ukraine. Eliot Higgins, who happens to be the founder of the investigative journalism site Bellingcat, in a report by The Guardian said there was evidence of Russia causing “civilian harm."&nbsp;

As per United Nations, intentionally targeting civilians or civilian buildings is considered a war crime under international humanitarian law. Also, attacks on military targets that cause excessive civilian casualties fall under the same category.

This is being done through the use of “cluster bombs in civilian areas”, claimed Eliot, by using credible video and stills of the conflict.

The evidence includes footage that has been collected. For instance, footage of an attack on a car park in Kharkiv has been described by a Bellingcat researcher as a cluster bomb strike.&nbsp;

It shows residents walking in a nearby park just as the bombs go off. The area in the footage appears to be residential.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-russia-claims-to-have-besieged-two-big-cities-in-ukraine-455211">Also read |&nbsp;LIVE | Ukraine war - Putin planning to proclaim Yanukovych as Ukraine president: Report</a>

Further evidence of the use of cluster munitions has also emerged. This includes the remains of a rocket motor from a BMP-30 Russian cluster munition found on a road in Kharkiv.&nbsp;

There is also a video of a similar bomb part landing in Bucha, which is northwest of Kyiv.

Various NGOs have highlighted a kindergarten attack in Okhtyrka, which is about 60 miles west of Kharkiv.

Drone footage shows multiple blackened explosion spots. It also shows dead or severely injured people by the entrance.

Agnès Callamard, the secretary general of Amnesty International, in a report by The Guardian said, "There is no possible justification for dropping cluster munitions in populated areas, let alone near a school."

(With inputs from agencies)

There has been evidence of the Russian military committing war crimes in Ukraine. Eliot Higgins, who happens to be the founder of the investigative journalism site Bellingcat, in a report by The Guardian said there was evidence of Russia causing “civilian harm.

There has been evidence of the Russian military committing war crimes in Ukraine. Eliot Higgins, who happens to be the founder of the investigative journalism site Bellingcat, in a report by The Guardian said there was evidence of Russia causing “civilian harm." As per United Nations, intentionally targeting civilians or civilian buildings is considered a war crime under international humanitarian law. Also, attacks on military targets that cause excessive civilian casualties fall under the same category. This is being done through the use of “cluster bombs in civilian areas”, claimed Eliot, by using credible video and stills of the conflict. The evidence includes footage that has been collected. For instance, footage of an attack on a car park in Kharkiv has been described by a Bellingcat researcher as a cluster bomb strike. It shows residents walking in a nearby park just as the bombs go off. The area in the footage appears to be residential. Also read | LIVE | Ukraine war - Putin planning to proclaim Yanukovych as Ukraine president: Report Further evidence of the use of cluster munitions has also emerged. This includes the remains of a rocket motor from a BMP-30 Russian cluster munition found on a road in Kharkiv. There is also a video of a similar bomb part landing in Bucha, which is northwest of Kyiv. Various NGOs have highlighted a kindergarten attack in Okhtyrka, which is about 60 miles west of Kharkiv. Drone footage shows multiple blackened explosion spots. It also shows dead or severely injured people by the entrance. Agnès Callamard, the secretary general of Amnesty International, in a report by The Guardian said, "There is no possible justification for dropping cluster munitions in populated areas, let alone near a school." (With inputs from agencies)

From cluster munitions to targeting schools: Researchers accuse Russia of war crimes in Ukraine

German Chancellor&nbsp;Olaf&nbsp;Scholz&nbsp;on Wednesday visited Israel for the first time since taking office, days after Russia's invasion of Ukraine and amid international efforts to forge a new Iran nuclear deal.

He toured Jerusalem's Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial with Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, laid a wreath and left a message in the guest book stressing Germany's historical responsibility toward the Jewish state.&nbsp;

"The mass murder of the Jews was instigated by Germany," he wrote.&nbsp;"It was planned and carried out by Germans.&nbsp;Consequently, every German government bears permanent responsibility for the security of the state of Israel and the protection of Jewish life."

Bennett welcomed&nbsp;Scholz, saying that "the Shoah, the methodical destruction of the Jews, is a wound that is the basis of the ties between Germany and Israel. From this wound we have built strong and significant ties."

The two heads of government -- both relatively new to office following many years under the political veterans Angela Merkel and Benjamin Netanyahu -- met as rapidly moving world events test their leadership.

They have diverged on their responses to Russia's war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Scholz's coalition government reversed a ban on sending weapons into conflict zones and halted the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline project between Russia and Germany.

He also pledged 100 billion euros ($113 billion) this year to modernise Germany's army and committed to spending more than two percent of Germany's gross domestic product on defence annually, surpassing even NATO's target.

Deeply troubled&nbsp;

Israel has taken a more conservative approach to the Ukraine crisis, citing its warm ties with both Kyiv and Moscow.&nbsp;

Israeli leaders have said they do not want to upset a delicate security cooperation with Russia, which operates a large military presence in Syria, where Israel carries out frequent strikes against what it says are Iran-linked targets.&nbsp;

Bennett has resisted Ukraine's request for weapons, according to Israeli media, and this week is sending 100 tons of non-military assistance, including blankets, water purification kits and medical supplies.&nbsp;

In addition, Israel has set up a hotline for Jewish Ukrainians seeking to immigrate amid the hostilities.&nbsp;

Scholz's visit also comes as a new deal is said to be emerging to curb Iran's nuclear programme in exchange for the lifting of international sanctions.&nbsp;

The original 2015 agreement unravelled when former US president Donald Trump withdrew from it, with Israeli encouragement.&nbsp;

Britain, China, France, Germany, Iran and Russia are now negotiating in Vienna to salvage that agreement, with the United States taking part indirectly.

Israel's Bennett has said he is "deeply troubled" by the outlines of that deal, fearing it does too little to stop its arch enemy Iran from one day getting the nuclear bomb, a goal Tehran denies pursuing.

Scholz&nbsp;was later due to meet Foreign Minister Yair Lapid and visit the Knesset, or parliament.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Wednesday visited Israel for the first time since taking office, days after Russia's invasion of Ukraine and amid international efforts to forge a new Iran nuclear deal.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Wednesday visited Israel for the first time since taking office, days after Russia's invasion of Ukraine and amid international efforts to forge a new Iran nuclear deal. He toured Jerusalem's Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial with Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, laid a wreath and left a message in the guest book stressing Germany's historical responsibility toward the Jewish state. "The mass murder of the Jews was instigated by Germany," he wrote. "It was planned and carried out by Germans. Consequently, every German government bears permanent responsibility for the security of the state of Israel and the protection of Jewish life." Bennett welcomed Scholz, saying that "the Shoah, the methodical destruction of the Jews, is a wound that is the basis of the ties between Germany and Israel. From this wound we have built strong and significant ties." The two heads of government -- both relatively new to office following many years under the political veterans Angela Merkel and Benjamin Netanyahu -- met as rapidly moving world events test their leadership. They have diverged on their responses to Russia's war in Ukraine. Scholz's coalition government reversed a ban on sending weapons into conflict zones and halted the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline project between Russia and Germany. He also pledged 100 billion euros ($113 billion) this year to modernise Germany's army and committed to spending more than two percent of Germany's gross domestic product on defence annually, surpassing even NATO's target. Deeply troubled Israel has taken a more conservative approach to the Ukraine crisis, citing its warm ties with both Kyiv and Moscow. Israeli leaders have said they do not want to upset a delicate security cooperation with Russia, which operates a large military presence in Syria, where Israel carries out frequent strikes against what it says are Iran-linked targets. Bennett has resisted Ukraine's request for weapons, according to Israeli media, and this week is sending 100 tons of non-military assistance, including blankets, water purification kits and medical supplies. In addition, Israel has set up a hotline for Jewish Ukrainians seeking to immigrate amid the hostilities. Scholz's visit also comes as a new deal is said to be emerging to curb Iran's nuclear programme in exchange for the lifting of international sanctions. The original 2015 agreement unravelled when former US president Donald Trump withdrew from it, with Israeli encouragement. Britain, China, France, Germany, Iran and Russia are now negotiating in Vienna to salvage that agreement, with the United States taking part indirectly. Israel's Bennett has said he is "deeply troubled" by the outlines of that deal, fearing it does too little to stop its arch enemy Iran from one day getting the nuclear bomb, a goal Tehran denies pursuing. Scholz was later due to meet Foreign Minister Yair Lapid and visit the Knesset, or parliament.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz visits Israel amid Ukraine war, Iran talks

Draft resolution of UN nuclear watch dogs board meet has been accessed by sources which condemns Russia's invasion of Ukraine, it was at Ukraine's request that Poland and Canada called the emergency meet.

IAEA draft resolution condemns Russian invasion of Ukraine

NATO allies have rushed to bolster their eastern flank after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Thousands of troops backed by air and naval support have been sent to protect allies near Russia and Ukraine.

NATO chief calls on Russia to end war in Ukraine, activates its rapid response force

In southern Ukraine, Russia today claimed to have taken over the southern city of Kherson this would make it the largest in Ukraine to be captured by Russian forces so far. The city mayor had earlier reported that Russian forces were seen on the city streets, Russian troops had taken over its train station and its port.

Ukraine: Southern city of Kherson falls into Russian hands

From football to Formula 1 racing, Russia is being isolated in the sports world for invading Ukraine. Russia has been expelled from World Cup and FIFA banned Russia from hosting international matches. Russian Grand Prix is canceled.

This is how world of sport is shunning Russia for Ukraine invasion

Artists in Germany and Lithuania have a message amid Russia-Ukraine crisis. Nearly 70, German artists took three tonnes of paint to write a message for Ukrainians. One of the giant graffiti letters read, “Let us build bridges”.

Watch: German artists have this message for Ukrainians, Russian President Vladimir Putin

The officials in Ukraine released the final words that were believed to be sent by a Russian soldier to his mother before he was killed in combat. Amid the escalating crisis, the Security Service of Ukraine released the messages from the soldier on Monday (February 28).&nbsp;

The messages indicated that the Russian soldiers are "afraid" and they are "hitting everyone", including civilians.&nbsp;

Parts of the heartbreaking messages were read by the Ukrainian Ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya at a meeting of the United Nations General Assembly.&nbsp;

However, Kyslytsya neither revealed when exactly the messages were sent nor the soldier's identity. He also didn't tell how the soldier died.&nbsp;

WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-ukraine-russia-conflict-man-miraculously-saved-after-military-combat-vehicle-runs-over-his-car-457805">Ukraine-Russia conflict: Man miraculously saved after military combat vehicle runs over his car</a>

As read by the official, the soldier wrote: "I'm scared, we're hitting everyone, even civilians. We had been told that people would welcome us here but they jump under our vehicles, not letting us pass. They call us fascists."&nbsp;

"Mom, it's so hard," the soldier added in the texts that were apparently written in Russian.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ukraines-foreign-ministry-posts-dramatic-video-of-administration-building-being-blown-up-in-kharkiv-457724">Ukraine's foreign ministry posts dramatic video of administration building being blown up in Kharkiv</a>

He said that they were told that the civilians would "welcome" them, and told his mother that he is no longer in Crimea doing training exercises.&nbsp;

He replied that "the only thing I want now is to hang myself" when his mother asked if she could send him a package.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the office of the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court on Monday said it will seek court approval to open an investigation into alleged war crimes in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

Watch the video here:

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Ukrainian Amb. to the UN reads texts between Russian soldier and his mom before he was killed: 
 
"I'm afraid. We are bombing all of the cities...even targeting civilians. We were told that they would welcome us. And they are falling under our armored vehicles." <a href="https://t.co/CMuK6zkFCy">pic.twitter.com/CMuK6zkFCy</a>
— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) <a href="https://twitter.com/Breaking911/status/1498367890290061328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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At the UN General Assembly, Ukrainian Ambassador Kyslytsya read a text message exchange between a Russian soldier and his mother before he was killed. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DemVoice1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DemVoice1</a> 1/2 
<a href="https://t.co/wEpDpBvzDI">https://t.co/wEpDpBvzDI</a>
— ThinkJoMice (@ThinkJoMice) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThinkJoMice/status/1498388209209802753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The officials in Ukraine released the final words that were believed to be sent by a Russian soldier to his mother before he was killed in combat. Amid the escalating crisis, the Security Service of Ukraine released the messages from the soldier on Monday (February 28).

The officials in Ukraine released the final words that were believed to be sent by a Russian soldier to his mother before he was killed in combat. Amid the escalating crisis, the Security Service of Ukraine released the messages from the soldier on Monday (February 28). The messages indicated that the Russian soldiers are "afraid" and they are "hitting everyone", including civilians. Parts of the heartbreaking messages were read by the Ukrainian Ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya at a meeting of the United Nations General Assembly. However, Kyslytsya neither revealed when exactly the messages were sent nor the soldier's identity. He also didn't tell how the soldier died. WATCH | Ukraine-Russia conflict: Man miraculously saved after military combat vehicle runs over his car As read by the official, the soldier wrote: "I'm scared, we're hitting everyone, even civilians. We had been told that people would welcome us here but they jump under our vehicles, not letting us pass. They call us fascists." "Mom, it's so hard," the soldier added in the texts that were apparently written in Russian. WATCH | Ukraine's foreign ministry posts dramatic video of administration building being blown up in Kharkiv He said that they were told that the civilians would "welcome" them, and told his mother that he is no longer in Crimea doing training exercises. He replied that "the only thing I want now is to hang myself" when his mother asked if she could send him a package. Meanwhile, the office of the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court on Monday said it will seek court approval to open an investigation into alleged war crimes in Ukraine. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Watch the video here: Ukrainian Amb. to the UN reads texts between Russian soldier and his mom before he was killed: "I'm afraid. We are bombing all of the cities...even targeting civilians. We were told that they would welcome us. And they are falling under our armored vehicles." pic.twitter.com/CMuK6zkFCy — Breaking911 (@Breaking911) February 28, 2022 × At the UN General Assembly, Ukrainian Ambassador Kyslytsya read a text message exchange between a Russian soldier and his mother before he was killed. #DemVoice1 1/2 https://t.co/wEpDpBvzDI — ThinkJoMice (@ThinkJoMice) February 28, 2022 ×

'Mom, I am scared. We are hitting everyone': Russian soldier's last words to mother are heart-wrenching

It is day 7 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, Russian convoy is at Kyiv's doorsteps.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Russian convoy at Kyiv's doorsteps on day 7 of the invasion

Vladimir Putin's invasion into Ukraine has been met with global condemnation and sanctions but it is the citizens within Russia who are facing the brunt of the war as mass detentions are adding to the burden of economic woes. Russian protesters took to the street in Moscow & Saint Petersburg against the invasion. Meanwhile, global protests have also intensified.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Russian protesters take to the street in Moscow & Saint Petersburg

Following Russia's military operations in Ukraine, the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) announced that the players from Russia and Belarus will be allowed to compete in ATP and World Tennis Association (WTA) events.

The decision comes despite many sports governing bodies including IOC, FIFA, UEFA imposing bans on the Russian players.

"A deep sense of distress, shock and sadness has been felt across the entire tennis community following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in the past week. Our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine, and we commend the many tennis players who have spoken out and taken action against this unacceptable act of aggression. We echo their calls for the violence to end and peace to return," stated an official joint statement by International Governing Bodies of Tennis.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/issf-bans-athletes-from-russia-belarus-after-ukraine-invasion-458082">ISSF bans athletes from Russia, Belarus after Ukraine invasion</a>

"The safety of the tennis community is our most immediate collective priority. The focus of the WTA and ATP in particular in recent days has been on contacting current and former players, and other members of the tennis community from Ukraine and neighbouring countries to check on their safety and offer any assistance," stated further.

The WTA and ATP Boards have made the decision to suspend the WTA/ATP combined event scheduled this October in Moscow.

The ITF Board has made the decision to suspend the Russian Tennis Federation and Belarus Tennis Federation membership and to withdraw their entries from all ITF international team competitions until further notice.

This action follows the cancellation of all ITF tournaments in Russia and Belarus indefinitely.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ukraine-crisis-footballs-first-reported-losses-as-two-ukrainian-players-killed-during-russian-invasion-458012">Ukraine crisis: Football's first reported losses as two Ukrainian players killed during Russian invasion</a>

At this time, players from Russia and Belarus will continue to be allowed to compete in international tennis events on Tour and at the Grand Slams.

However, they will not compete under the name or flag of Russia or Belarus until further notice.

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.

UEFA and FIFA have also barred Russia from international football until further notice.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-athletics-joins-sporting-bodies-in-banning-russian-and-belarusian-athletes-457935">World Athletics joins sporting bodies in banning Russian and Belarusian athletes</a>

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday had announced a military operation in Ukraine and warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to "consequences they have never seen."

Following Russia's military operations in Ukraine, the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) announced that the players from Russia and Belarus will be allowed to compete in ATP and World Tennis Association (WTA) events.

Following Russia's military operations in Ukraine, the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) announced that the players from Russia and Belarus will be allowed to compete in ATP and World Tennis Association (WTA) events. The decision comes despite many sports governing bodies including IOC, FIFA, UEFA imposing bans on the Russian players. "A deep sense of distress, shock and sadness has been felt across the entire tennis community following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in the past week. Our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine, and we commend the many tennis players who have spoken out and taken action against this unacceptable act of aggression. We echo their calls for the violence to end and peace to return," stated an official joint statement by International Governing Bodies of Tennis. ALSO READ: ISSF bans athletes from Russia, Belarus after Ukraine invasion "The safety of the tennis community is our most immediate collective priority. The focus of the WTA and ATP in particular in recent days has been on contacting current and former players, and other members of the tennis community from Ukraine and neighbouring countries to check on their safety and offer any assistance," stated further. The WTA and ATP Boards have made the decision to suspend the WTA/ATP combined event scheduled this October in Moscow. The ITF Board has made the decision to suspend the Russian Tennis Federation and Belarus Tennis Federation membership and to withdraw their entries from all ITF international team competitions until further notice. This action follows the cancellation of all ITF tournaments in Russia and Belarus indefinitely. ALSO READ: Ukraine crisis: Football's first reported losses as two Ukrainian players killed during Russian invasion At this time, players from Russia and Belarus will continue to be allowed to compete in international tennis events on Tour and at the Grand Slams. However, they will not compete under the name or flag of Russia or Belarus until further notice. 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. UEFA and FIFA have also barred Russia from international football until further notice. ALSO READ: World Athletics joins sporting bodies in banning Russian and Belarusian athletes Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday had announced a military operation in Ukraine and warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to "consequences they have never seen."

Players from Russia, Belarus allowed to compete in ATP, WTA events

The Russian Ambassador-designate to Delhi, Denis Alipov has said that his country is working to create a safe passage to the stranded Indian nationals in Ukraine conflict zones.&nbsp;

In his first-ever presser since reaching Delhi, he said, "We are working intensely on creating the corridors a securing, a safe passage for the Indian nationals stuck in those areas so that they can travel and be taken safely to areas... to Russian territories".&nbsp;

He added, "Will do everything possibly can to ensure the safety of Indian students in those areas of intense conflict".&nbsp;

WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-indian-flag-helped-pakistani-turkish-students-cross-ukraine-border-says-indian-student-458070">Indian flag helped Pakistani, Turkish students cross Ukraine border, says Indian student</a>

During his virtual presser, he expressed sympathy for the family of Naveen Shekharappa Gyandagoudar and the "entire Indian nation" and announced Moscow will investigate his death.&nbsp;

Naveen, a 21-year-old Indian student died in Kharkiv on Tuesday in the shelling. He is the first Indian casualty during the ongoing Russian military operation in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Since that development, Indian foreign secretary Harsh Shringla has called both Russian and Ukrainian envoys for safe passage for Indian nationals in war-torn Ukraine.

Alipov explained, "We are in touch with the Indian authorities as regards the citizens of India currently in Kharkiv, Sumy in those areas in the north-east of Ukraine."

He said that they have received the Indian request for "emergency evacuation" of all those stuck there to the Russian territory and his country is "now actively working on the ways and means to launch some operation and to provide humanitarian corridors, so that people have the secure passage to safety on the Russian territory."&nbsp;

This is perhaps the first time any ambassador-designate did a presser in Delhi even before presenting his credentials to the Indian president, which shows the concerning nature of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-did-belarusian-president-accidentally-share-russias-plans-to-invade-ukraine-458067">Did Belarusian President accidentally share Russia's plans to invade Ukraine?</a>

On being further asked by reporters on the safe passage for Indians, envoy Alipov said, "As regards to the corridor for Indian nationals, I hope it will be in place as soon as possible...Hopefully, it will happen in the very near future and Indian nationals will be safe and sound on Russian territory."&nbsp;

Around 12000 Indian nationals have left the country which is around 60 per cent of the total number of Indian nationals present in the country since a few weeks ago.&nbsp;

Of the remaining 40 per cent, roughly half remain in the conflict zone in the Kharkiv -Sumy area and the other half have either reached the western borders of Ukraine or are heading towards the western borders of Ukraine.&nbsp;

On asked about how matter being raised at UN multiple times, the envoy said, "We do coordinate our positions. At the UN we inform India about our approach. We do the utmost and everything possible to keep India unto date as regards what is happening".&nbsp;

Russia was the President of the UNSC in February month and India is a non-permanent member of the council. So far India has abstained on any west backed anti-Russia resolution on Ukraine taken at the high table.&nbsp;

Lauding India's actions at UNSC, the new Russian envoy said, "We are very much grateful to India for its balanced position displayed at UN. As I said, India understands the depth of the current crisis and not just the face value of it. The depth and reasons and sees the whole situation in all its complexities. This is very important and this is the reason why its stand has been so unbiased and balanced at the UN. We hope that India will continue to demonstrate such an approach."&nbsp;

India and Russia are strategic allies and share a historic bond. Russian President Putin had visited India in December for the annual India Russia summit. This year will see the Indian PM Modi visiting Russia for the summit. February month also saw both leaders speaking to each other on the crisis with the Indian side emphasising dialogue.

In response to WION's question on deliveries of S400 taking a hit and sanctions playing a spoilsport, the envoy said, "I don't foresee any obstacles as regards the supplies of S400 to India. we have the mechanism and will continue the deal un-obstructively. Sanctions don't interfere in the deal in any way, whether previous sanctions or newly imposed."&nbsp;

The delivery of the defence system started in December but fears remain over American CAATSA sanctions.

The west has announced more sanctions since last week's operation by Russia in Ukraine. The sanctions are expected to impact the Russian economy.&nbsp;

The envoy highlighted bilateral mechanism exists for doing business in national currencies. Inviting Indian businesses to invest in his country, he said, "I hope their interest in the Russian market will remain and stay, the opportunities are open there. As regards Russia we are open to doing business with India and from our side, nothing has changed. Our intentions and desire continue steadfast."&nbsp;

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The Russian Ambassador-designate to Delhi, Denis Alipov has said that his country is working to create a safe passage to the stranded Indian nationals in Ukraine conflict zones.

The Russian Ambassador-designate to Delhi, Denis Alipov has said that his country is working to create a safe passage to the stranded Indian nationals in Ukraine conflict zones. In his first-ever presser since reaching Delhi, he said, "We are working intensely on creating the corridors a securing, a safe passage for the Indian nationals stuck in those areas so that they can travel and be taken safely to areas... to Russian territories". He added, "Will do everything possibly can to ensure the safety of Indian students in those areas of intense conflict". WATCH | Indian flag helped Pakistani, Turkish students cross Ukraine border, says Indian student During his virtual presser, he expressed sympathy for the family of Naveen Shekharappa Gyandagoudar and the "entire Indian nation" and announced Moscow will investigate his death. Naveen, a 21-year-old Indian student died in Kharkiv on Tuesday in the shelling. He is the first Indian casualty during the ongoing Russian military operation in Ukraine. Since that development, Indian foreign secretary Harsh Shringla has called both Russian and Ukrainian envoys for safe passage for Indian nationals in war-torn Ukraine. Alipov explained, "We are in touch with the Indian authorities as regards the citizens of India currently in Kharkiv, Sumy in those areas in the north-east of Ukraine." He said that they have received the Indian request for "emergency evacuation" of all those stuck there to the Russian territory and his country is "now actively working on the ways and means to launch some operation and to provide humanitarian corridors, so that people have the secure passage to safety on the Russian territory." This is perhaps the first time any ambassador-designate did a presser in Delhi even before presenting his credentials to the Indian president, which shows the concerning nature of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis. WATCH | Did Belarusian President accidentally share Russia's plans to invade Ukraine? On being further asked by reporters on the safe passage for Indians, envoy Alipov said, "As regards to the corridor for Indian nationals, I hope it will be in place as soon as possible...Hopefully, it will happen in the very near future and Indian nationals will be safe and sound on Russian territory." Around 12000 Indian nationals have left the country which is around 60 per cent of the total number of Indian nationals present in the country since a few weeks ago. Of the remaining 40 per cent, roughly half remain in the conflict zone in the Kharkiv -Sumy area and the other half have either reached the western borders of Ukraine or are heading towards the western borders of Ukraine. On asked about how matter being raised at UN multiple times, the envoy said, "We do coordinate our positions. At the UN we inform India about our approach. We do the utmost and everything possible to keep India unto date as regards what is happening". Russia was the President of the UNSC in February month and India is a non-permanent member of the council. So far India has abstained on any west backed anti-Russia resolution on Ukraine taken at the high table. Lauding India's actions at UNSC, the new Russian envoy said, "We are very much grateful to India for its balanced position displayed at UN. As I said, India understands the depth of the current crisis and not just the face value of it. The depth and reasons and sees the whole situation in all its complexities. This is very important and this is the reason why its stand has been so unbiased and balanced at the UN. We hope that India will continue to demonstrate such an approach." India and Russia are strategic allies and share a historic bond. Russian President Putin had visited India in December for the annual India Russia summit. This year will see the Indian PM Modi visiting Russia for the summit. February month also saw both leaders speaking to each other on the crisis with the Indian side emphasising dialogue. In response to WION's question on deliveries of S400 taking a hit and sanctions playing a spoilsport, the envoy said, "I don't foresee any obstacles as regards the supplies of S400 to India. we have the mechanism and will continue the deal un-obstructively. Sanctions don't interfere in the deal in any way, whether previous sanctions or newly imposed." The delivery of the defence system started in December but fears remain over American CAATSA sanctions. The west has announced more sanctions since last week's operation by Russia in Ukraine. The sanctions are expected to impact the Russian economy. The envoy highlighted bilateral mechanism exists for doing business in national currencies. Inviting Indian businesses to invest in his country, he said, "I hope their interest in the Russian market will remain and stay, the opportunities are open there. As regards Russia we are open to doing business with India and from our side, nothing has changed. Our intentions and desire continue steadfast." ×

Creating safe passage for Indian nationals in Ukraine, assures new Russian envoy Denis Alipov

It is day 7 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.

Battle for Kharkiv: 21 killed, 112 injured in last 24 hours

The Russian invasion of Ukraine continues. Emotions are at an all-time high. Ukrainian President Zelensky recently spoke at the European Parliament. One person who could not help but choke up after the fiery speech was Zelensky's EU interpreter.

Emotions run high amid conflict: Zelensky's interpreter chokes up

Day 7 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine: Russia steps up military offensive

The 4 axes of Russian invasion: Tracking the advancements of Russian forces in Ukraine

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.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Tuesday (March 1) may have accidentally shared Russia's plans to invade Ukraine during a live televised meet.&nbsp;

During the Security Council meeting in Minsk, the Belarusian leader demonstrated a map that looked like a scheme of military actions in Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ukraine-crisis-footballs-first-reported-losses-as-two-ukrainian-players-killed-during-russian-invasion-458012">Football's first reported losses as two Ukrainian players killed during Russian invasion</a>

While talking, he repeated that the Russian Armed Forces conducted missile launches from Belarus into Ukraine on February 23 to prevent what he has claimed was Ukraine's intention to attack Belarus.&nbsp;

In a video shared by news agency Reuters, Lukashenko said, "Thankfully those guys, warned us. We had found it literally six hours before a launch, and the Russians - Iskanders were deployed here, right, in the Mazyr area - they attacked those missiles, those positions."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mom-i-am-scared-we-are-hitting-everyone-russian-soldiers-last-words-to-mother-are-heart-wrenching-457862">'Mom, I am scared. We are hitting everyone': Russian soldier's last words to mother are heart-wrenching</a>

"And after that, we haven't seen them anymore. During the Russians' advancement, entering Ukraine, we did not see those positions anymore. That is why I am saying, yes, there were launches from Belarusian territory. And I told you openly what point we targeted," he added.&nbsp;

The video was also shared by Belarusian journalist Tadeusz Giczan on Twitter, in which Lukashenko appeared to point to a map of Ukraine. The map showed Ukraine segmented into four parts.&nbsp;

As per the journo, the demonstration "looks like an actual invasion map." Important to note that the Belarusian leader is a longtime ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

Watch the video here:&nbsp;

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At today's security council meeting, Lukashenko showed what looks like an actual invasion map. It shows Ukraine military facilities destroyed by missiles from Belarus, attacks directions (everything agrees except Odessa-Transnistria). Also, Ukraine is divided into 4 sectors. <a href="https://t.co/ueqBIFUbyM">pic.twitter.com/ueqBIFUbyM</a>
— Tadeusz Giczan 🇺🇦 (@TadeuszGiczan) <a href="https://twitter.com/TadeuszGiczan/status/1498673348183744518?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2022</a></blockquote>
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On Tuesday, Lukashenko said that Belarus has no plans to join Russia's military operation in Ukraine.&nbsp;

The US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said on Monday that Lukashenko has allowed Putin to "make a mockery" of Belarus' sovereignty by allowing Moscow's forces to launch their attack on Ukraine from its territory.

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. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Tuesday (March 1) may have accidentally shared Russia's plans to invade Ukraine during a live televised meet. During the Security Council meeting in Minsk, the Belarusian leader demonstrated a map that looked like a scheme of military actions in Ukraine. ALSO READ | Football's first reported losses as two Ukrainian players killed during Russian invasion While talking, he repeated that the Russian Armed Forces conducted missile launches from Belarus into Ukraine on February 23 to prevent what he has claimed was Ukraine's intention to attack Belarus. In a video shared by news agency Reuters, Lukashenko said, "Thankfully those guys, warned us. We had found it literally six hours before a launch, and the Russians - Iskanders were deployed here, right, in the Mazyr area - they attacked those missiles, those positions." ALSO READ | 'Mom, I am scared. We are hitting everyone': Russian soldier's last words to mother are heart-wrenching "And after that, we haven't seen them anymore. During the Russians' advancement, entering Ukraine, we did not see those positions anymore. That is why I am saying, yes, there were launches from Belarusian territory. And I told you openly what point we targeted," he added. The video was also shared by Belarusian journalist Tadeusz Giczan on Twitter, in which Lukashenko appeared to point to a map of Ukraine. The map showed Ukraine segmented into four parts. As per the journo, the demonstration "looks like an actual invasion map." Important to note that the Belarusian leader is a longtime ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Watch the video here: At today's security council meeting, Lukashenko showed what looks like an actual invasion map. It shows Ukraine military facilities destroyed by missiles from Belarus, attacks directions (everything agrees except Odessa-Transnistria). Also, Ukraine is divided into 4 sectors. pic.twitter.com/ueqBIFUbyM — Tadeusz Giczan 🇺🇦 (@TadeuszGiczan) March 1, 2022 × On Tuesday, Lukashenko said that Belarus has no plans to join Russia's military operation in Ukraine. The US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said on Monday that Lukashenko has allowed Putin to "make a mockery" of Belarus' sovereignty by allowing Moscow's forces to launch their attack on Ukraine from its territory.

Watch: Did Belarusian President accidentally share Russia's plans to invade Ukraine?

The Russian driver Nikita Mazepin will be allowed to race in Formula 1 this season after motorsports governing body the FIA confirmed the Russian and Belarusian drivers will be able to compete under a neutral flag.

Russian F1 racer Nikita Mazepin to compete in F1 this season, FIA clarifies

It is day 7 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. Ukraine President Zelensky said that Russia must Stop bombing cities before ceasefire talks.

Zelensky's message to Russia: Stop bombing cities before ceasefire talks

Battle for Kharkiv: Russian paratroopers land in Kharkiv amid Russian invasion of Ukraine

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