Russia&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;were preparing Monday for their first&nbsp;talks&nbsp;since Moscow's invasion, as&nbsp;fighting&nbsp;raged and Western-led sanctions started to bite with the ruble collapsing.

Ukraine&nbsp;said Sunday it had agreed to send a delegation to meet Russian representatives on the border with Belarus, which would be the foes' first public contact since war erupted.

Belarus announced Monday that the venue for the&nbsp;talks&nbsp;had been prepared and they would start as soon as the delegations arrived.

However, with his government reporting hundreds of civilian deaths and Russian troops besieging key cities, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he was sceptical about the&nbsp;talks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kyiv-mayor-proud-of-citizens-spirit-anxious-about-future-457348">Kyiv mayor proud of citizens' spirit, anxious about future</a>

"As always: I do not really believe in the outcome of this meeting, but let them try," he said.

Russia&nbsp;invaded on Thursday and quickly announced it had neutralised key military facilities, but fierce&nbsp;fighting&nbsp;has since raged and&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;forces are reporting some success.

"The Russian occupiers have reduced the pace of the offensive," the general staff of the&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;armed forces said.

The United States has also said that&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;forces, backed by Western arms, are stymieing the advance of Russian troops.

Putin on Sunday ordered&nbsp;Russia's nuclear forces onto high alert in response to what he called "unfriendly" steps by the West.&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;has the world's largest arsenal of nuclear weapons and a huge cache of ballistic missiles.

The United States, the world's second largest nuclear power, slammed Putin's order as "totally unacceptable".

Germany said Putin's nuclear order was because his offensive had "halted" and was not going to plan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/medical-oxygen-supplies-may-run-out-in-24-hours-in-war-hit-ukraine-warns-who-457339">Medical oxygen supplies may run out in 24 hours in war-hit Ukraine, warns WHO</a>

Economic pressure

The campaign by the United States and its allies to build economic pressure on&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;also showed more signs on Monday of having an impact.

Russia's central bank announced Monday it was more than doubling its key interest rate to 20 percent because the Russian economy's situation had "drastically changed".

The value of the ruble also continued to collapse against the dollar and the euro on the Moscow Stock Exchange on Monday.

And the European Central Bank warned Monday that the European subsidiary of the Russian state-owned Sberbank was facing bankruptcy.

The Kremlin has brushed off sanctions, including those targeting Putin personally, as a sign of Western impotence.

Among the sanctions, the West has said it would remove some Russian banks from the SWIFT bank messaging system, and freeze central bank assets.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-temporarily-disables-google-maps-live-traffic-data-in-ukraine-457341">Google temporarily disables Google Maps live traffic data in Ukraine</a>

The United States and its allies are seeking to continue building the diplomatic and military pressure, as well as economic.&nbsp;

EU member states closed their airspace to Russian planes and many pledged arms for&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;-- but stressed they would not themselves intervene militarily.

Brussels announced it would provide 450 million euros ($500 million) for&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;to buy weapons and ban Russian central bank transactions, as well as restricting two Moscow-run media outlets.

British energy giant BP also said Sunday it was pulling its 19.75-percent stake in Rosneft, a blow to&nbsp;Russia's key oil and gas sector, which is partly reliant on Western technology.&nbsp;

The White House said it would hold a secure call with allies and partners Monday to discuss "developments" in&nbsp;Russia's attack on&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;and "coordinate our united response".&nbsp;

The UN General Assembly will hold a rare emergency session Monday to discuss the conflict.

Also in response to hostilities, FIFA ordered&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;to play its home international fixtures in neutral venues and warned it was considering banning it from the 2022 World Cup.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-ruble-falls-to-117-per-us-dollar-a-decline-of-41-457280">Russia's ruble falls to 117 per US dollar, a decline of 41%</a>

Defending cities&nbsp;

On day four of an invasion that stunned the world, Ukrainian forces said Sunday they had defeated a Russian incursion into&nbsp;Ukraine's second city Kharkiv, 500 kilometres (310 miles) east of Kyiv.&nbsp;

Ukrainian officials said they were&nbsp;fighting&nbsp;off Russian forces in several other areas, and claimed that 4,300 Russian troops had been killed.

The Ukrainian army said Monday morning that Russian forces had "several times" attempted to storm the outskirts of Kyiv overnight, but all attacks were repelled.&nbsp;

"The situation in the capital of our homeland is under control," said the army on Facebook.

Local media reported strong explosions heard throughout Sunday night in both Kyiv and Kharkiv.

Presidential advisor Oleksiy Arestovich said on Telegram early Monday the capital had been targeted overnight by three Russian missile strikes, one of which was intercepted.

The southern city of Berdiansk is now occupied by Russian soldiers, he added.

Ukraine&nbsp;has reported 352 civilian deaths, including 14 children, since the invasion began.&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;has acknowledged that a number of its forces had been killed or injured.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-united-nations-top-court-ukraine-registers-genocide-case-against-russia-457279">At United Nations' top court, Ukraine registers genocide case against Russia</a>

Humanitarian crisis

The United Nations has put the civilian toll at 64 while the EU said more than seven million people could be displaced by the conflict.

"We are witnessing what could become the largest humanitarian crisis on our European continent in many, many years," the EU commissioner for crisis management Janez Lenarcic said.

Ukraine&nbsp;has called on its own civilians to fight&nbsp;Russia, with a brewery in Lviv in the country's west switching its production line from beers to bombs, making Molotov cocktails for the volunteer fighters.

At the Medyka border crossing with Poland, volunteer Jasinska said the long line of arrivals, mostly women and children, need warm clothes.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus | Ukraine War: Understanding Russian President Vladimir Putin

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-ukraine-war-understanding-russian-president-vladimir-putin-456846/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Crossing Medyka with his family, Ajmal Rahmani, an Afghan who fled Afghanistan for&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;four months before the US withdrawal, told AFP: "I run from one war, come to another country and another war starts. Very bad luck".

Putin has said&nbsp;Russia's actions are justified because it is defending Moscow-backed separatists in eastern&nbsp;Ukraine.

The rebels have been&nbsp;fighting&nbsp;Ukrainian government forces for eight years in a conflict that has killed more than 14,000 people.

Russia and Ukraine were preparing Monday for their first talks since Moscow's invasion, as fighting raged and Western-led sanctions started to bite with the ruble collapsing.

Russia and Ukraine were preparing Monday for their first talks since Moscow's invasion, as fighting raged and Western-led sanctions started to bite with the ruble collapsing. Ukraine said Sunday it had agreed to send a delegation to meet Russian representatives on the border with Belarus, which would be the foes' first public contact since war erupted. Belarus announced Monday that the venue for the talks had been prepared and they would start as soon as the delegations arrived. However, with his government reporting hundreds of civilian deaths and Russian troops besieging key cities, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he was sceptical about the talks. Also read | Kyiv mayor proud of citizens' spirit, anxious about future "As always: I do not really believe in the outcome of this meeting, but let them try," he said. Russia invaded on Thursday and quickly announced it had neutralised key military facilities, but fierce fighting has since raged and Ukraine forces are reporting some success. "The Russian occupiers have reduced the pace of the offensive," the general staff of the Ukraine armed forces said. The United States has also said that Ukraine forces, backed by Western arms, are stymieing the advance of Russian troops. Putin on Sunday ordered Russia's nuclear forces onto high alert in response to what he called "unfriendly" steps by the West. Russia has the world's largest arsenal of nuclear weapons and a huge cache of ballistic missiles. The United States, the world's second largest nuclear power, slammed Putin's order as "totally unacceptable". Germany said Putin's nuclear order was because his offensive had "halted" and was not going to plan. Also read | Medical oxygen supplies may run out in 24 hours in war-hit Ukraine, warns WHO Economic pressure The campaign by the United States and its allies to build economic pressure on Russia also showed more signs on Monday of having an impact. Russia's central bank announced Monday it was more than doubling its key interest rate to 20 percent because the Russian economy's situation had "drastically changed". The value of the ruble also continued to collapse against the dollar and the euro on the Moscow Stock Exchange on Monday. And the European Central Bank warned Monday that the European subsidiary of the Russian state-owned Sberbank was facing bankruptcy. The Kremlin has brushed off sanctions, including those targeting Putin personally, as a sign of Western impotence. Among the sanctions, the West has said it would remove some Russian banks from the SWIFT bank messaging system, and freeze central bank assets. Also read | Google temporarily disables Google Maps live traffic data in Ukraine The United States and its allies are seeking to continue building the diplomatic and military pressure, as well as economic. EU member states closed their airspace to Russian planes and many pledged arms for Ukraine -- but stressed they would not themselves intervene militarily. Brussels announced it would provide 450 million euros ($500 million) for Ukraine to buy weapons and ban Russian central bank transactions, as well as restricting two Moscow-run media outlets. British energy giant BP also said Sunday it was pulling its 19.75-percent stake in Rosneft, a blow to Russia's key oil and gas sector, which is partly reliant on Western technology. The White House said it would hold a secure call with allies and partners Monday to discuss "developments" in Russia's attack on Ukraine and "coordinate our united response". The UN General Assembly will hold a rare emergency session Monday to discuss the conflict. Also in response to hostilities, FIFA ordered Russia to play its home international fixtures in neutral venues and warned it was considering banning it from the 2022 World Cup. Also read | Russia's ruble falls to 117 per US dollar, a decline of 41% Defending cities On day four of an invasion that stunned the world, Ukrainian forces said Sunday they had defeated a Russian incursion into Ukraine's second city Kharkiv, 500 kilometres (310 miles) east of Kyiv. Ukrainian officials said they were fighting off Russian forces in several other areas, and claimed that 4,300 Russian troops had been killed. The Ukrainian army said Monday morning that Russian forces had "several times" attempted to storm the outskirts of Kyiv overnight, but all attacks were repelled. "The situation in the capital of our homeland is under control," said the army on Facebook. Local media reported strong explosions heard throughout Sunday night in both Kyiv and Kharkiv. Presidential advisor Oleksiy Arestovich said on Telegram early Monday the capital had been targeted overnight by three Russian missile strikes, one of which was intercepted. The southern city of Berdiansk is now occupied by Russian soldiers, he added. Ukraine has reported 352 civilian deaths, including 14 children, since the invasion began. Russia has acknowledged that a number of its forces had been killed or injured. Also read | At United Nations' top court, Ukraine registers genocide case against Russia Humanitarian crisis The United Nations has put the civilian toll at 64 while the EU said more than seven million people could be displaced by the conflict. "We are witnessing what could become the largest humanitarian crisis on our European continent in many, many years," the EU commissioner for crisis management Janez Lenarcic said. Ukraine has called on its own civilians to fight Russia, with a brewery in Lviv in the country's west switching its production line from beers to bombs, making Molotov cocktails for the volunteer fighters. At the Medyka border crossing with Poland, volunteer Jasinska said the long line of arrivals, mostly women and children, need warm clothes. Watch | Gravitas Plus | Ukraine War: Understanding Russian President Vladimir Putin Crossing Medyka with his family, Ajmal Rahmani, an Afghan who fled Afghanistan for Ukraine four months before the US withdrawal, told AFP: "I run from one war, come to another country and another war starts. Very bad luck". Putin has said Russia's actions are justified because it is defending Moscow-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine. The rebels have been fighting Ukrainian government forces for eight years in a conflict that has killed more than 14,000 people.

Russia, Ukraine set for talks as fighting rages

It is day 5 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 and Ukraine will hold talks shortly at the Belarus border .

Russia-Ukraine to hold talks shortly at the Belarus border

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.

48 cities witness mass protests from Russian citizens against the invasion of Ukraine

Reports: Russia to demonstrate a hardline approach during talks with Ukraine at Belarus border

This brewery in Ukraine’s Lviv has stopped making beer as the country is under attack by Russia. But what are they making now? Watch to find out.

This Ukrainian brewery stopped making beer. What is it making now?

Alphabet Inc's&nbsp;Google&nbsp;confirmed on Sunday it has temporarily disabled for Ukraine some&nbsp;Google&nbsp;Maps tools which provide live information about traffic conditions and how busy different places are.

The company said it had taken the action of globally disabling the&nbsp;Google&nbsp;Maps traffic layer and live information on how busy places like stores and restaurants are in Ukraine for the safety of local communities in the country, after consulting with sources including regional authorities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-biggest-plane-mriya-destroyed-by-russia-near-kyiv-457293">World's biggest plane 'Mriya' destroyed by Russia near Kyiv</a>

Ukraine is facing attacks from Russian forces who invaded the country on Thursday. As missiles fell on Ukrainian cities, nearly 400,000 civilians, mainly women and children, have fled into neighbouring countries.

Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special operation".

Big tech companies including&nbsp;Google&nbsp;have said they are taking new measures to protect users' security in the region.

Online services and social media sites have also been tapped by researchers piecing together activity around the war.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-352-ukrainian-civilians-killed-1684-injured-457271">&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine conflict: 352 Ukrainian civilians killed, 1,684 injured</a>

A professor at California's Middlebury Institute of International Studies said&nbsp;Google&nbsp;Maps helped him track a "traffic jam" that was actually Russian movement towards the border hours before Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the attack.

Google&nbsp;said live traffic information remained available to drivers using its turn-by-turn navigation features in the area.

Alphabet Inc's Google confirmed on Sunday it has temporarily disabled for Ukraine some Google Maps tools which provide live information about traffic conditions and how busy different places are.

Alphabet Inc's Google confirmed on Sunday it has temporarily disabled for Ukraine some Google Maps tools which provide live information about traffic conditions and how busy different places are. The company said it had taken the action of globally disabling the Google Maps traffic layer and live information on how busy places like stores and restaurants are in Ukraine for the safety of local communities in the country, after consulting with sources including regional authorities. Also read | World's biggest plane 'Mriya' destroyed by Russia near Kyiv Ukraine is facing attacks from Russian forces who invaded the country on Thursday. As missiles fell on Ukrainian cities, nearly 400,000 civilians, mainly women and children, have fled into neighbouring countries. Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special operation". Big tech companies including Google have said they are taking new measures to protect users' security in the region. Online services and social media sites have also been tapped by researchers piecing together activity around the war. Also read | Russia-Ukraine conflict: 352 Ukrainian civilians killed, 1,684 injured A professor at California's Middlebury Institute of International Studies said Google Maps helped him track a "traffic jam" that was actually Russian movement towards the border hours before Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the attack. Google said live traffic information remained available to drivers using its turn-by-turn navigation features in the area.

Google temporarily disables Google Maps live traffic data in Ukraine

It is day 5 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: Next 24 hours will be crucial

French farmers because of the war in Ukraine are now very worried about the possible increase in the price of fertilizers and the impact on the price of natural gas.

Impact of Russian invasion of Ukraine: French farmers worry about fertilizers price hikes

As Russia continued its wide-scale invasion of Ukraine in the face of tremendous resistance, former US President Donald Trump applauded Vladimir Putin as "smart" and dubbed American leaders "dumb."

As world leaders banded together to condemn Russian President Vladimir Putin and slap sweeping sanctions on his government and oligarch cronies, Mr Trump reaffirmed his previous remarks against Mr Putin.&nbsp;

"Yesterday, I was asked by reporters if I thought President Putin was smart. I said, 'of course he's smart,'" Trump told a crowd at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Orlando, Florida, on Saturday night. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-wipes-out-bloodthirsty-chechen-special-forces-sent-to-zelensky-457107">Also read | Ukraine wipes out 'bloodthirsty' Chechen special forces sent to assassinate Zelensky</a>

"The problem is not that Putin is smart, which of course he is smart, but the real problem is that our leaders are dumb," Trump said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Trump calls Putin smart, says NATO is not so smart, and calls our leaders dumb <a href="https://t.co/lEEymSPSby">pic.twitter.com/lEEymSPSby</a>
— Acyn (@Acyn) <a href="https://twitter.com/Acyn/status/1497733342086647809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Trump then went on to blame the Biden administration for Russia's invasion of its neighbour, which was justified by Mr Putin's false assertions that Ukraine was run by "drug-addicted, neo-Nazi" officials.&nbsp;

British online newspaper 'The Independent' quoted Donald Trump as saying, "Under our leadership, the world was a peaceful place because America was strong and the perception of our country was perhaps like it had never been before: powerful, cunning, and smart. We were a smart country. Now we are a stupid country,".

Trump has always admired Putin, and this week praised him for his "wonderful" and "genius" war strategy in Ukraine.

Democrats and military veterans have chastised the former president for praising Russian President Vladimir Putin during a horrific attack on a sovereign country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

As Russia continued its wide-scale invasion of Ukraine in the face of tremendous resistance, former US President Donald Trump applauded Vladimir Putin as "smart" and dubbed American leaders "dumb.

As Russia continued its wide-scale invasion of Ukraine in the face of tremendous resistance, former US President Donald Trump applauded Vladimir Putin as "smart" and dubbed American leaders "dumb." As world leaders banded together to condemn Russian President Vladimir Putin and slap sweeping sanctions on his government and oligarch cronies, Mr Trump reaffirmed his previous remarks against Mr Putin. "Yesterday, I was asked by reporters if I thought President Putin was smart. I said, 'of course he's smart,'" Trump told a crowd at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Orlando, Florida, on Saturday night. Also read | Ukraine wipes out 'bloodthirsty' Chechen special forces sent to assassinate Zelensky "The problem is not that Putin is smart, which of course he is smart, but the real problem is that our leaders are dumb," Trump said. Trump calls Putin smart, says NATO is not so smart, and calls our leaders dumb pic.twitter.com/lEEymSPSby — Acyn (@Acyn) February 27, 2022 × Trump then went on to blame the Biden administration for Russia's invasion of its neighbour, which was justified by Mr Putin's false assertions that Ukraine was run by "drug-addicted, neo-Nazi" officials. British online newspaper 'The Independent' quoted Donald Trump as saying, "Under our leadership, the world was a peaceful place because America was strong and the perception of our country was perhaps like it had never been before: powerful, cunning, and smart. We were a smart country. Now we are a stupid country,". Trump has always admired Putin, and this week praised him for his "wonderful" and "genius" war strategy in Ukraine. Democrats and military veterans have chastised the former president for praising Russian President Vladimir Putin during a horrific attack on a sovereign country. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine war: Trump calls the US a ‘stupid country’ and Putin 'smart'

The UN refugee agency, UNHCR has said that at least 150,000 refugees had fled Ukraine to neighboring countries, such as Poland, Moldova, Hungary and Romania, in the wake of Russia’s assault on Ukraine. WION tells you more.

UN Refugee Agency: At least 150,000 people flee Ukraine to neighboring countries

US President Joe Biden has approved $350 million in immediate support to Ukraine’s defence after Kyiv’s defence minister urged the West to send anti-aircraft and anti-tank missiles to help it repel Russia’s military assault on his country.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: US President Biden approves $350 mn in military aid for Ukraine

Chelsea’s owner Roman Abramovich has announced that he is handing over the “stewardship and care” of the Premier League club to the trustees of its charitable foundation.

Abramovich, who took over at Stamford Bridge in 2003, in a statement said, “During my nearly 20-year ownership of Chelsea FC, I have always viewed my role as a custodian of the club, whose job it is ensuring that we are as successful as we can be today, as well as build for the future, while also playing a positive role in our communities."

“I have always taken decisions with the club’s best interest at heart. I remain committed to these values. That is why I am today giving trustees of Chelsea’s charitable foundation the stewardship and care of Chelsea FC."

“I believe that currently, they are in the best position to look after the interests of the club, players, staff, and fans.”

The move comes after intense scrutiny following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-in-new-attacks-russia-hits-ukraine-fuel-supplies-airfields-455211">Also read |&nbsp;Live: In new attacks, Russia hits Ukraine fuel supplies, airfields</a>

Meanwhile, the United States (US), European Union (EU) and United Kingdom (UK) have decided to put crippling sanctions on the financial sector in Russia.&nbsp;

The measures taken to put Russia on back foot include a block on its access to the global financial system, SWIFT, and, for the first time, restrictions on its central bank.&nbsp;

On Saturday, the measures were announced jointly to "hold Russia to account and collectively ensure that this war is a strategic failure for (Russian President Vladimir) Putin."&nbsp;

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, while announcing the measures in Brussels, said would push the bloc also to "paralyse the assets of Russia's Central bank" so that its transactions would be frozen.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Chelsea’s owner Roman Abramovich has announced that he is handing over the “stewardship and care” of the Premier League club to the trustees of its charitable foundation.

Chelsea’s owner Roman Abramovich has announced that he is handing over the “stewardship and care” of the Premier League club to the trustees of its charitable foundation. Abramovich, who took over at Stamford Bridge in 2003, in a statement said, “During my nearly 20-year ownership of Chelsea FC, I have always viewed my role as a custodian of the club, whose job it is ensuring that we are as successful as we can be today, as well as build for the future, while also playing a positive role in our communities." “I have always taken decisions with the club’s best interest at heart. I remain committed to these values. That is why I am today giving trustees of Chelsea’s charitable foundation the stewardship and care of Chelsea FC." “I believe that currently, they are in the best position to look after the interests of the club, players, staff, and fans.” The move comes after intense scrutiny following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Also read | Live: In new attacks, Russia hits Ukraine fuel supplies, airfields Meanwhile, the United States (US), European Union (EU) and United Kingdom (UK) have decided to put crippling sanctions on the financial sector in Russia. The measures taken to put Russia on back foot include a block on its access to the global financial system, SWIFT, and, for the first time, restrictions on its central bank. On Saturday, the measures were announced jointly to "hold Russia to account and collectively ensure that this war is a strategic failure for (Russian President Vladimir) Putin." EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, while announcing the measures in Brussels, said would push the bloc also to "paralyse the assets of Russia's Central bank" so that its transactions would be frozen. (With inputs from agencies)

Chelsea's Roman Abramovich hands over 'stewardship and care' of club

Thousands of people took to the streets across Israel, to protest against Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Russian forces began firing missiles at several cities in Ukraine on Thursday at dawn, after President Vladimir Putin launched a special military operation.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Thousands take to streets in Israel against Russian invasion of Ukraine

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday that he would 'try' to hold dialogie with Russia but was sceptical about impact. Kyiv is preparing to meet Moscow at Ukraine's border with Belarus. The development has come on the fourth day of Russian invasion.

"I will be honest, as always: I do not really believe in the outcome of this meeting, but let them try," Zelensky said in a video address. He added that if there was a "chance" to end war, he should take part in the talks.&nbsp;

Zelensky issued the video after speaking with Belarus leader and Moscow ally Alexander Lukashenko.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-orders-deterrence-forces-on-high-alert-457165">Russian President Vladimir Putin orders 'deterrence forces' on high alert</a>

Russian troops have attacked Ukraine from many directions, including from Belarusian territory, after President Vladimir Putin ordered the invasion in the early hours of Thursday.&nbsp;

Kyiv has refused to hold talks in Belarus -- where Moscow wants to meet -- saying the country was acting as a launchpad for the invasion.

Earlier, Zelensky's office said Ukraine was willing to meet Russia at its border with Belarus near the Pripyat River.&nbsp;

Belarusian state television has said the Ukrainian and Russian officials will meet at the Aleksandrovka and Vilcha border checkpoints.&nbsp;

Putin has said that a Russian delegation was currently in the Belarusian city of Gomel.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday that he would 'try' to hold dialogie with Russia but was sceptical about impact. Kyiv is preparing to meet Moscow at Ukraine's border with Belarus.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday that he would 'try' to hold dialogie with Russia but was sceptical about impact. Kyiv is preparing to meet Moscow at Ukraine's border with Belarus. The development has come on the fourth day of Russian invasion. "I will be honest, as always: I do not really believe in the outcome of this meeting, but let them try," Zelensky said in a video address. He added that if there was a "chance" to end war, he should take part in the talks. Zelensky issued the video after speaking with Belarus leader and Moscow ally Alexander Lukashenko. Also Read | Russian President Vladimir Putin orders 'deterrence forces' on high alert Russian troops have attacked Ukraine from many directions, including from Belarusian territory, after President Vladimir Putin ordered the invasion in the early hours of Thursday. Kyiv has refused to hold talks in Belarus -- where Moscow wants to meet -- saying the country was acting as a launchpad for the invasion. Earlier, Zelensky's office said Ukraine was willing to meet Russia at its border with Belarus near the Pripyat River. Belarusian state television has said the Ukrainian and Russian officials will meet at the Aleksandrovka and Vilcha border checkpoints. Putin has said that a Russian delegation was currently in the Belarusian city of Gomel. (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky sceptical, but says will 'try' dialogue with Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and sought India’s “political support” at the UNSC amid the ongoing conflict situation in Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Ukrainian President Zelensky urges Indian PM Modi for political support

It is day 4 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, EU will finance purchase of weapons for Ukraine amid Russian invasion.

EU will finance purchase of weapons for Ukraine amid Russian invasion

It is day 4 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's Nuclear deterrence forces were put on high alert.

Putin accuses West of 'unfriendly' steps amid Belarus' Nuclear threat to the West

The UNSC is due to call for a vote for a rare emergency session of UNGA. The vote by the 15-member council is procedural. None of the 5 permanent council members can use veto power.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: UN Security Council due to vote to call for rare UNGA emergency session

Wars are conventionally fought on land, air or sea. But advent of technology has opened up newer dimensions of conflict. This type of war may not be explicitly visible in terms of loud explosion and scary warmachines. But the warfare is more devastating that the conventional one.

Cyber warfare has the capacity to cripple an entire nation, let alone the armed forces. Countries are highly dependent on tech and a well-calibrated cyber strike can wreak havoc without the attacker having to use conventional weapons. The cyber capabilities have increasingly been used to influence public opinion and perception in the target country. Russia is understood to have formidable cyber warfare capabilities

"This type of warfare is known as “fourth generation warfare or hybrid warfare, which is a combination of war on ground, coupled with cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, spreading of disinformation on social media networks, mobilization of covert sabotage groups and causing disturbances of law and order,” said Brijesh Singh, senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer and cybersecurity expert.

Russia's invasion on Ukraine was accompanied by reports of cyber attacks. Ukraine said that the country's defence ministry and armed forces as well as two state banks had been hit by a cyberattack. Ukraine pointed finger at Russia. It denied the allegation.

"We do not know anything. As expected, Ukraine continues blaming Russia for everything," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on February 16.

“All these activities are carried out in a highly coordinated fashion what an intent to create a kind of domino effect in multiple domains. Information warfare or disinformation campaigns are used to create a cacophony of narratives which totally confuses the populace in the target country,” said Brijesh Singh.

Wars are conventionally fought on land, air or sea. But advent of technology has opened up newer dimensions of conflict. This type of war may not be explicitly visible in terms of loud explosion and scary warmachines.

Wars are conventionally fought on land, air or sea. But advent of technology has opened up newer dimensions of conflict. This type of war may not be explicitly visible in terms of loud explosion and scary warmachines. But the warfare is more devastating that the conventional one. Cyber warfare has the capacity to cripple an entire nation, let alone the armed forces. Countries are highly dependent on tech and a well-calibrated cyber strike can wreak havoc without the attacker having to use conventional weapons. The cyber capabilities have increasingly been used to influence public opinion and perception in the target country. Russia is understood to have formidable cyber warfare capabilities "This type of warfare is known as “fourth generation warfare or hybrid warfare, which is a combination of war on ground, coupled with cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, spreading of disinformation on social media networks, mobilization of covert sabotage groups and causing disturbances of law and order,” said Brijesh Singh, senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer and cybersecurity expert. Russia's invasion on Ukraine was accompanied by reports of cyber attacks. Ukraine said that the country's defence ministry and armed forces as well as two state banks had been hit by a cyberattack. Ukraine pointed finger at Russia. It denied the allegation. "We do not know anything. As expected, Ukraine continues blaming Russia for everything," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on February 16. “All these activities are carried out in a highly coordinated fashion what an intent to create a kind of domino effect in multiple domains. Information warfare or disinformation campaigns are used to create a cacophony of narratives which totally confuses the populace in the target country,” said Brijesh Singh.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Cyber warfare underway alongside conventional fight

Former US President Donald Trump has strongly criticised NATO leaders for their handling of the Ukraine crisis while speaking at a conference. He further said that sanctioning someone was not enough and that the west should focus not only on economic sanctions but also on psychological attack.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Trump slams NATO leaders for handling Ukraine crisis

It is day 4 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.

White House accuses Russian President Vladimir Putin of threats to justify aggression in Ukraine

Belarus' Nuclear threat to the West: Will deploy Nuclear weapons if Poland & Lithuania do it

I am a migrant who moved from my home town of Gorakhpur, first for my studies and then for my job. 
 
Why do we migrate?

Our best and brightest go to the United States, many people from Punjab&nbsp;to Canada, people from Kerala&nbsp;to the Middle East, and poor labourers to wherever they can find work.

We migrate for better opportunities, something that the local milieu does not provide us with.

Simply put, it's for a better life, to be what we would rather be, rather than be content with circumstances.

If you understand this, then you will understand why Indian students go to places like Ukraine to study medicine, engineering, etc.

The online, and often offline, chatter that I hear against Indian students who are stuck in Ukraine due to the war with Russia reminds me of the same outrage I heard when poor migrants made the arduous journey back home during the first COVID lockdown. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-is-ukraine-such-a-popular-choice-for-indian-medical-students-456990">Also read | Why is Ukraine such a popular choice for Indian medical students?</a> 
 
The 'Why did they migrate' preaching, looking down upon them without having walked a few steps in their shoes. 
 
More than 20,000 Indian students were in Ukraine before the start of this conflict. Why were they there in the first place? Because Ukraine offers good education at affordable rates, approximately INR 2 million for a 6-year course, whereas similar courses in India would set you back by INR 5 million or more.

Most of these colleges in Ukraine are good, recognised by WHO, Indian and other reputed agencies. 
 
Also, these doctors will have to pass the screening test administered by Medical Council of India (MCI) after their degree to practice medicine in India. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ukraine-war-witness-account-indian-medical-student-sheltering-in-bunker-speaks-of-her-fears-456973">Also read | Ukraine war witness account: Indian medical student sheltering in bunker speaks of her fears</a> 
 
Every year, 14 million students in India sit for class 12 exams, with over 1.4 million students aspiring for a medical seat constituting even a good percentage of this total. This is an extremely consequential number. So, we have to scoff at the 20,000 or so students who have the privilege to go study abroad and add to medical professionals in India? On what basis? 
 
Indian colleges have approximately 1,18,316 MBBS seats per year. Where is the 1,18, 317th aspirant to go? 
 
Is she any less worthy than the 20-odd thousand aspirants above her in the merit list? I would say no, because if one in 10 is going to be selected, these exams are programmed as elimination tests, not selection tests. 
 
So where are these 'rejects', with perfectly decent intellects, supposed to go? 
 
If they are able to afford it, they go to places like Ukraine, if not much more expensive places. There is never an outrage if you hear someone go and attend an American college for any degree that will cost you way, way more than in places like Ukraine. Hence, students go there and will continue to go there even after this tragic war is over. 
 
So, why the hypocrisy? 
 
We see these students as the privileged lot. They are out there to buy their degrees, people think, with no proof whatsoever that they work any less hard than any medical student in India. Yes, their family money is paying for their education. That is true for most of our middle class and upper class households. Heck, even a poor migrant would rather send her daughter to an English-medium school if she could, and she should! What's criminal about this aspiration? What makes them the villains in our eyes? 
 
Oh, why did they not leave before the Russian attack on Ukraine?

Yes, of course, you expect that, when the whole world was caught off guard with this war, these 20 somethings should have been able to predict what was going to happen!

They may have had their exams, but they just believed when everyone said, "Arey, war nahi hogi." (There won't be any war).

But the government asked them to return!! Have you seen some of the advisories that western nations have given to India from time to time? When was the last time you checked the travel advisory when you planned a foreign trip?

The most legitimate criticism that I have seen is that this was the Indian "chalta hai, kuch nahi hoga" (nothing will happen) approach in full action. Then, by that standard, we are all guilty of so many things. 
 
So, stop this toxic culture of mocking people in trouble.

We, as Indians, should put an end to the poisonous culture of belittling individuals who are in difficulty.

Higher education needs to be democratised.

Higher fees and paid seats are the lifeblood of private colleges. Government intervention is required to make medical education more accessible. 
 
And what is this toxic culture of mocking people in trouble? Social media has empowered us, but we abuse that power by hiding behind Twitter handles and spreading hatred and ill-will. 
Most Indian families argue that meritorious students don't need to pay their way to a degree. That can be a principled stand or just the fact that most people can't afford a private version of such degrees, in India or anywhere.

This is not to say the poor can suck it. Let the rich study. No, no, no....I am just pointing out the fact that in India, PhDs and students with masters degrees would rather apply to be constables or janitors in the name of government service than actually make better use of the privilege they have had of a degree and education they have obtained.

The failure rates both in numbers and years lost by our young for Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), many state PSCs, Railway jobs or any government job than doing something else is genocidal, that is where our population dividend has gone to die!

I would rather appreciate these 20,000 or so students who had the opportunity to do something better and took it, and for that I support them.

I am a migrant who moved from my home town of Gorakhpur, first for my studies and then for my job. Why do we migrate? Our best and brightest go to the United States, many people from Punjab to Canada, people from Kerala to the Middle East, and poor labourers to wherever they can find work.

I am a migrant who moved from my home town of Gorakhpur, first for my studies and then for my job. Why do we migrate? Our best and brightest go to the United States, many people from Punjab to Canada, people from Kerala to the Middle East, and poor labourers to wherever they can find work. We migrate for better opportunities, something that the local milieu does not provide us with. Simply put, it's for a better life, to be what we would rather be, rather than be content with circumstances. If you understand this, then you will understand why Indian students go to places like Ukraine to study medicine, engineering, etc. The online, and often offline, chatter that I hear against Indian students who are stuck in Ukraine due to the war with Russia reminds me of the same outrage I heard when poor migrants made the arduous journey back home during the first COVID lockdown. Also read | Why is Ukraine such a popular choice for Indian medical students? The 'Why did they migrate' preaching, looking down upon them without having walked a few steps in their shoes. More than 20,000 Indian students were in Ukraine before the start of this conflict. Why were they there in the first place? Because Ukraine offers good education at affordable rates, approximately INR 2 million for a 6-year course, whereas similar courses in India would set you back by INR 5 million or more. Most of these colleges in Ukraine are good, recognised by WHO, Indian and other reputed agencies. Also, these doctors will have to pass the screening test administered by Medical Council of India (MCI) after their degree to practice medicine in India. Also read | Ukraine war witness account: Indian medical student sheltering in bunker speaks of her fears Every year, 14 million students in India sit for class 12 exams, with over 1.4 million students aspiring for a medical seat constituting even a good percentage of this total. This is an extremely consequential number. So, we have to scoff at the 20,000 or so students who have the privilege to go study abroad and add to medical professionals in India? On what basis? Indian colleges have approximately 1,18,316 MBBS seats per year. Where is the 1,18, 317th aspirant to go? Is she any less worthy than the 20-odd thousand aspirants above her in the merit list? I would say no, because if one in 10 is going to be selected, these exams are programmed as elimination tests, not selection tests. So where are these 'rejects', with perfectly decent intellects, supposed to go? If they are able to afford it, they go to places like Ukraine, if not much more expensive places. There is never an outrage if you hear someone go and attend an American college for any degree that will cost you way, way more than in places like Ukraine. Hence, students go there and will continue to go there even after this tragic war is over. So, why the hypocrisy? We see these students as the privileged lot. They are out there to buy their degrees, people think, with no proof whatsoever that they work any less hard than any medical student in India. Yes, their family money is paying for their education. That is true for most of our middle class and upper class households. Heck, even a poor migrant would rather send her daughter to an English-medium school if she could, and she should! What's criminal about this aspiration? What makes them the villains in our eyes? Oh, why did they not leave before the Russian attack on Ukraine? Yes, of course, you expect that, when the whole world was caught off guard with this war, these 20 somethings should have been able to predict what was going to happen! They may have had their exams, but they just believed when everyone said, "Arey, war nahi hogi." (There won't be any war). But the government asked them to return!! Have you seen some of the advisories that western nations have given to India from time to time? When was the last time you checked the travel advisory when you planned a foreign trip? The most legitimate criticism that I have seen is that this was the Indian "chalta hai, kuch nahi hoga" (nothing will happen) approach in full action. Then, by that standard, we are all guilty of so many things. So, stop this toxic culture of mocking people in trouble. We, as Indians, should put an end to the poisonous culture of belittling individuals who are in difficulty. Higher education needs to be democratised. Higher fees and paid seats are the lifeblood of private colleges. Government intervention is required to make medical education more accessible. And what is this toxic culture of mocking people in trouble? Social media has empowered us, but we abuse that power by hiding behind Twitter handles and spreading hatred and ill-will. Most Indian families argue that meritorious students don't need to pay their way to a degree. That can be a principled stand or just the fact that most people can't afford a private version of such degrees, in India or anywhere. This is not to say the poor can suck it. Let the rich study. No, no, no....I am just pointing out the fact that in India, PhDs and students with masters degrees would rather apply to be constables or janitors in the name of government service than actually make better use of the privilege they have had of a degree and education they have obtained. The failure rates both in numbers and years lost by our young for Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), many state PSCs, Railway jobs or any government job than doing something else is genocidal, that is where our population dividend has gone to die! I would rather appreciate these 20,000 or so students who had the opportunity to do something better and took it, and for that I support them.

Stop criticising Indian students stuck in Ukraine; they need to be appreciated

Dance, food and festivals! Things you should know about the Ukrainian culture

With Russia’s conflict with Ukraine deepening with every hour, the United States (US), European Union (EU) and United Kingdom (UK) have decided to put crippling sanctions on the financial sector in Russia.&nbsp;

The measures taken to put Russia on back foot include a block on its access to the global financial system, SWIFT, and, for the first time, restrictions on its central bank. &nbsp;

On Saturday, the measures were announced jointly to "hold Russia to account and collectively ensure that this war is a strategic failure for (Russian President Vladimir) Putin." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-approves-military-aid-for-ukraine-worth-350-million-456773">US President Joe Biden approves military aid for Ukraine worth $350 million</a>

This is a part of a new round of financial sanctions. &nbsp;

The key Russian banks are being cut out of the SWIFT financial messaging system. While the restrictions over central bank look to target over USD 600 billion in reserves that the Kremlin has at its disposal. It is meant to limit ability of Russia to support the ruble as sanctions by the West intensify. &nbsp;

These steps were framed to send the ruble into "free fall" and promote soaring inflation in the Russian economy, the US officials said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-army-to-broaden-offensive-from-all-sides-against-ukraine-says-kremlin-456881">Russian army to broaden offensive ‘from all sides’ against Ukraine: Kremlin</a>

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, while announcing the measures in Brussels, said would push the bloc also to "paralyse the assets of Russia's Central bank" so that its transactions would be frozen. Cutting several commercial banks from SWIFT "will ensure that these banks are disconnected from the international financial system and harm their ability to operate globally," she added. &nbsp;

"Cutting banks off will stop them from conducting most of their financial transactions worldwide and effectively block Russian exports and imports. Putin embarked on a path aiming to destroy Ukraine, but what he is also doing, in fact, is destroying the future of his own country," she added. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With Russia’s conflict with Ukraine deepening with every hour, the United States (US), European Union (EU) and United Kingdom (UK) have decided to put crippling sanctions on the financial sector in Russia.

With Russia’s conflict with Ukraine deepening with every hour, the United States (US), European Union (EU) and United Kingdom (UK) have decided to put crippling sanctions on the financial sector in Russia. The measures taken to put Russia on back foot include a block on its access to the global financial system, SWIFT, and, for the first time, restrictions on its central bank. On Saturday, the measures were announced jointly to "hold Russia to account and collectively ensure that this war is a strategic failure for (Russian President Vladimir) Putin." Also Read: US President Joe Biden approves military aid for Ukraine worth $350 million This is a part of a new round of financial sanctions. The key Russian banks are being cut out of the SWIFT financial messaging system. While the restrictions over central bank look to target over USD 600 billion in reserves that the Kremlin has at its disposal. It is meant to limit ability of Russia to support the ruble as sanctions by the West intensify. These steps were framed to send the ruble into "free fall" and promote soaring inflation in the Russian economy, the US officials said. Also Read | Russian army to broaden offensive ‘from all sides’ against Ukraine: Kremlin EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, while announcing the measures in Brussels, said would push the bloc also to "paralyse the assets of Russia's Central bank" so that its transactions would be frozen. Cutting several commercial banks from SWIFT "will ensure that these banks are disconnected from the international financial system and harm their ability to operate globally," she added. "Cutting banks off will stop them from conducting most of their financial transactions worldwide and effectively block Russian exports and imports. Putin embarked on a path aiming to destroy Ukraine, but what he is also doing, in fact, is destroying the future of his own country," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Over Ukraine conflict, US, UK, EU to put crippling sanctions on Russian central bank, block SWIFT

The official website of the Kremlin, the office of Russian President Vladimir Putin, kremlin.ru, was down on Saturday. This comes after there were reports of denial of service (DDoS) attacks on various other Russian government and state media websites.

The websites were down after Ukraine's vice prime minister said that it had launched an 'IT army' to combat Russia in cyberspace.&nbsp;

A newly discovered piece of destructive software was found circulating in Ukraine on Wednesday. According to researchers at the cybersecurity firm ESET, this impacted hundreds of computers.

Meanwhile, 'Anonymous,' a cyber hacker group, declared a "cyberwar" against Putin's administration as it launched a full-scale invasion of Kyiv amid the continuing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The hacking collective's goal, according to international media, is to deactivate several Russian government websites.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-hackers-group-anonymous-declares-cyber-war-on-moscow-456598">Also read |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Hackers' group 'Anonymous' declares 'cyber war' on Moscow</a>

A social media account purporting to represent the group wrote on Thursday that "The Anonymous collective is officially in cyberwar against the Russian government."

The "Anonymous collective has taken down the website of the Russian propaganda channel RT News," it added, confirming the RT.com hack.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Russian government's websites, the Kremlin, the Duma, and the Ministry of Defense were all hit by the hacker collective's 'cyberattack.'

(With inputs from agencies)

The official website of the Kremlin, the office of Russian President Vladimir Putin, kremlin.ru, was down on Saturday. This comes after there were reports of denial of service (DDoS) attacks on various other Russian government and state media websites.

The official website of the Kremlin, the office of Russian President Vladimir Putin, kremlin.ru, was down on Saturday. This comes after there were reports of denial of service (DDoS) attacks on various other Russian government and state media websites. The websites were down after Ukraine's vice prime minister said that it had launched an 'IT army' to combat Russia in cyberspace. A newly discovered piece of destructive software was found circulating in Ukraine on Wednesday. According to researchers at the cybersecurity firm ESET, this impacted hundreds of computers. Meanwhile, 'Anonymous,' a cyber hacker group, declared a "cyberwar" against Putin's administration as it launched a full-scale invasion of Kyiv amid the continuing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The hacking collective's goal, according to international media, is to deactivate several Russian government websites. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Hackers' group 'Anonymous' declares 'cyber war' on Moscow A social media account purporting to represent the group wrote on Thursday that "The Anonymous collective is officially in cyberwar against the Russian government." The "Anonymous collective has taken down the website of the Russian propaganda channel RT News," it added, confirming the RT.com hack. Meanwhile, the Russian government's websites, the Kremlin, the Duma, and the Ministry of Defense were all hit by the hacker collective's 'cyberattack.' (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine war: Kremlin's official website down after 'cyber war' on Moscow declared

Russian missiles have hit the Ukrainian town of Vasylkiv southwest of the capital, Kyiv, setting an oil terminal ablaze, the town’s mayor said in a video posted online.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Russian missiles set ablaze oil terminal in Ukrainian town of Vasylkiv

India evacuated 219 people as part of its mission to bring Indians from war-hit Ukraine. The flight took off from neighbouring Romania, as the Ukrainian airspace has been closed for civil aircraft operations, and landed in Mumbai.

Flight with 219 Indians evacuated from Ukraine lands in Mumbai

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday decided to put his nuclear forces on alert. This decision was panned by the Western countries.&nbsp;

North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg decried Putin's decision as being an "irresponsible" one

"This is dangerous rhetoric. This is a behavior which is irresponsible," the alliance's secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg told CNN amid heightened tensions over the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

"And, of course, if you combine this rhetoric with what they're doing on the ground in Ukraine, waging war against the independent sovereign nation, conducting a full-fledged invasion of Ukraine, this adds to the seriousness of the situation,” he added.

The US indicated its displeasure too. It said this escalation was "totally unacceptable".

"This is a pattern that we've seen from President Putin through the course of this conflict, which is manufacturing threats that don't exist in order to justify further aggression," White House press secretary Jen Psaki said on ABC when asked about the announcement from Moscow.

The American ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said she condemned Putin's step in the strongest terms.&nbsp;

"It means that President Putin is continuing to escalate this war in a manner that is totally unacceptable," Thomas-Greenfield said in an interview on CBS.

Moscow has the world's second-largest arsenal of nuclear weapons and a huge cache of ballistic missiles which form the backbone of the country's deterrence forces.

Putin said he was putting Russia's nuclear forces on high alert because, he said, Western countries are taking "unfriendly" steps against his country.

The US and its allies have unleashed sweeping and punishing economic sanctions against Russia because of its invasion of Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday decided to put his nuclear forces on alert. This decision was panned by the Western countries. North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg decried Putin's decision as being an "irresponsible" one "This is dangerous rhetoric.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday decided to put his nuclear forces on alert. This decision was panned by the Western countries. North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg decried Putin's decision as being an "irresponsible" one "This is dangerous rhetoric. This is a behavior which is irresponsible," the alliance's secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg told CNN amid heightened tensions over the Russian invasion of Ukraine. "And, of course, if you combine this rhetoric with what they're doing on the ground in Ukraine, waging war against the independent sovereign nation, conducting a full-fledged invasion of Ukraine, this adds to the seriousness of the situation,” he added. The US indicated its displeasure too. It said this escalation was "totally unacceptable". "This is a pattern that we've seen from President Putin through the course of this conflict, which is manufacturing threats that don't exist in order to justify further aggression," White House press secretary Jen Psaki said on ABC when asked about the announcement from Moscow. The American ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said she condemned Putin's step in the strongest terms. "It means that President Putin is continuing to escalate this war in a manner that is totally unacceptable," Thomas-Greenfield said in an interview on CBS. Moscow has the world's second-largest arsenal of nuclear weapons and a huge cache of ballistic missiles which form the backbone of the country's deterrence forces. Putin said he was putting Russia's nuclear forces on high alert because, he said, Western countries are taking "unfriendly" steps against his country. The US and its allies have unleashed sweeping and punishing economic sanctions against Russia because of its invasion of Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia receives flak for putting nuclear forces on alert

Vice Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has said that Ukraine will create an "IT army" to fight against Russia's digital intrusions. According to reports, the government of Ukraine is asking for volunteers from the country’s hacker underground to fight a cyber war.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Ukrainian govt launches cyber spying mission against Russian troops

India brought back the first batch of 219 Indians from war-hit Ukraine as part of 'Operation Ganga'. Now, India's External Affairs Ministry holds Briefing on the ongoing operation.

India working with neighbours to evacuate its nationals from Ukraine amid Russian invasion

ukraine

Ukraine, News on Ukraine, stories on Ukraine, articles on Ukraine, Ukraine stories at Wion, Ukraine news, Ukraine latest news