In the latest in the Russia-Ukraine crisis, a bulk of Russian ground force are still more than 30 km North if the Ukrainian capital Kyiv. A two-day curfew in the city has been lifted.

Ukraine agrees to talk with Russia at Ukraine-Belarus border

Ukraine striker Roman Yaremchuk, who plays for Benfica in the Primeira Liga in Portugal, was moved to tears after a brilliant gesture from the fans during his side's clash against Vitoria SC on Sunday. The Ukrainian footballer was not named in the starting XI but came on as a substitute for his side in the 62nd minute.

As Yaremchuk prepared to take the field against Vitoria SC, he was also handed over the captain's armband by defender Jan Vertonghen. The Benfica fans gave in a standing ovation as the Ukrainian striker entered the pitch. The fans applauded him as a gesture of solidarity with Ukraine and its people amid the country's ongoing war with Russia.

Yaremchuk was moved to tears after receiving huge applause from the fans of the Portuguese club. The video of the emotional moment was shared by Benfica on social media and it instantly went viral as football fans across the world sent their wishes for the Ukrainian.

Watch the video here:

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🇺🇦 This moment... Speachless! <a href="https://t.co/EpgNydnZer">pic.twitter.com/EpgNydnZer</a>
— SL Benfica (@slbenfica_en) <a href="https://twitter.com/slbenfica_en/status/1498021507443970053?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Benfica went on to beat Vitoria SC by 3-0 with the help of a brace from Darwin Nunez and a 23rd-minute goal from Goncalo Ramos. It was a comfortable win for the Primeira Liga giants, who are currently placed third on the points table with 54 points from 24 matches.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-premier-league-clubs-united-to-express-solidarity-with-ukraine-amid-war-with-russia-457171">How Premier League clubs united to express solidarity with Ukraine amid war with Russia</a>

Apart from the Primeira Liga, several other football leagues around the world have shown solidarity with Ukraine in the last few days. Clubs like Everton, Manchester United and Manchester City among others in the English Premier League came up with gestures to express solidarity with the country during their matches last week.

England has also decided to boycott all their international football matches against Russia across competitions. FIFA has also condemned Russia's actions in Ukraine and has said the country will be barred from hosting matches and will have to&nbsp;play under the banner of "Football Union of Russia" without a national flag or an anthem.

Ukraine striker Roman Yaremchuk, who plays for Benfica in the Primeira Liga in Portugal, was moved to tears after a brilliant gesture from the fans during his side's clash against Vitoria SC on Sunday.

Ukraine striker Roman Yaremchuk, who plays for Benfica in the Primeira Liga in Portugal, was moved to tears after a brilliant gesture from the fans during his side's clash against Vitoria SC on Sunday. The Ukrainian footballer was not named in the starting XI but came on as a substitute for his side in the 62nd minute. As Yaremchuk prepared to take the field against Vitoria SC, he was also handed over the captain's armband by defender Jan Vertonghen. The Benfica fans gave in a standing ovation as the Ukrainian striker entered the pitch. The fans applauded him as a gesture of solidarity with Ukraine and its people amid the country's ongoing war with Russia. Yaremchuk was moved to tears after receiving huge applause from the fans of the Portuguese club. The video of the emotional moment was shared by Benfica on social media and it instantly went viral as football fans across the world sent their wishes for the Ukrainian. Watch the video here: 🇺🇦 This moment... Speachless! pic.twitter.com/EpgNydnZer — SL Benfica (@slbenfica_en) February 27, 2022 × Benfica went on to beat Vitoria SC by 3-0 with the help of a brace from Darwin Nunez and a 23rd-minute goal from Goncalo Ramos. It was a comfortable win for the Primeira Liga giants, who are currently placed third on the points table with 54 points from 24 matches. Also Read: How Premier League clubs united to express solidarity with Ukraine amid war with Russia Apart from the Primeira Liga, several other football leagues around the world have shown solidarity with Ukraine in the last few days. Clubs like Everton, Manchester United and Manchester City among others in the English Premier League came up with gestures to express solidarity with the country during their matches last week. England has also decided to boycott all their international football matches against Russia across competitions. FIFA has also condemned Russia's actions in Ukraine and has said the country will be barred from hosting matches and will have to play under the banner of "Football Union of Russia" without a national flag or an anthem.

Ukrainian striker moved to tears after standing ovation from Benfica fans, video goes viral - WATCH

With the Russia-Ukraine conflict escalating, several countries of the West have started to help Ukraine militarily. Well, they are still not going to send troops on the ground but will give military equipment. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The countries, which have made the pledge to help Ukraine in this way recently are Sweden, Finland, Germany and the US. Lithuania has already been doing it.&nbsp;

But still the date of the delivery of the equipment has not been disclosed. Only time will tell that these vital things would reach the Ukrainian armed forces in time or not. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-352-ukrainian-civilians-killed-1684-injured-457271">Russia-Ukraine conflict: 352 Ukrainian civilians killed, 1,684 injured</a>

For the first time, the US has approved the direct delivery of Stinger missiles to Ukraine. It is being done as part of a package approved by the White House on Friday. &nbsp;

The US is currently working on the logistics of the shipment, the officials said. &nbsp;

At a news conference on Sunday, Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson and Defence Minister Peter Hultqvist said that Stockholm would ship 5,000 anti-tank weapons, 5,000 units of body armour, 5,000 helmets and 1,35,000 field rations in support to military of Ukraine. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-united-nations-top-court-ukraine-registers-genocide-case-against-russia-457279" hreflang="en">At United Nations' top court, Ukraine registers genocide case against Russia</a>

Earlier on Sunday, the neighbouring Finland had said that it would send 2,000 bulletproof vests, 2,000 helmets, 100 stretchers and equipment for two emergency medical care stations to Ukraine. &nbsp;

Germany has already announced that it will send 500 Stinger missiles and other weapons and supplies to the war-torn country. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With the Russia-Ukraine conflict escalating, several countries of the West have started to help Ukraine militarily. Well, they are still not going to send troops on the ground but will give military equipment.

With the Russia-Ukraine conflict escalating, several countries of the West have started to help Ukraine militarily. Well, they are still not going to send troops on the ground but will give military equipment. The countries, which have made the pledge to help Ukraine in this way recently are Sweden, Finland, Germany and the US. Lithuania has already been doing it. But still the date of the delivery of the equipment has not been disclosed. Only time will tell that these vital things would reach the Ukrainian armed forces in time or not. Also Read: Russia-Ukraine conflict: 352 Ukrainian civilians killed, 1,684 injured For the first time, the US has approved the direct delivery of Stinger missiles to Ukraine. It is being done as part of a package approved by the White House on Friday. The US is currently working on the logistics of the shipment, the officials said. At a news conference on Sunday, Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson and Defence Minister Peter Hultqvist said that Stockholm would ship 5,000 anti-tank weapons, 5,000 units of body armour, 5,000 helmets and 1,35,000 field rations in support to military of Ukraine. Also Read: At United Nations' top court, Ukraine registers genocide case against Russia Earlier on Sunday, the neighbouring Finland had said that it would send 2,000 bulletproof vests, 2,000 helmets, 100 stretchers and equipment for two emergency medical care stations to Ukraine. Germany has already announced that it will send 500 Stinger missiles and other weapons and supplies to the war-torn country. (With inputs from agencies)

West pledges more military aid to Ukraine. But will it reach Kyiv in time?

Ukraine: Torn between West and Russia

Families in Ukraine packed up whatever they could carry on their backs to seek shelter across the border mainly in places like Romania, Poland and Moldova.

Thousands flee the country as Russian invasion of Ukraine continues

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.

Day 5 of Russian invasion: Ukraine says the pace of the Russian offensive slowed

As Russian troops invade Ukraine, protesters have been gathering around the world to demonstrate against Putin's aggression. Demonstrators from Washington DC demand US intervention against the Russia.

Demonstrators demand US intervention against the Russian invasion of 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 news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. 
 
According to the Daily Mail, Ukraine dealt a big blow to Russia by supposedly killing a large contingent of vicious Chechen special forces ordered to assassinate Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelensky.

The military force, which is known for its horrific aggression and human rights violations, is alleged to have been decimated after their convoy of 56 tanks was blown to smithereens by Ukrainian missile fire near Hostomel, just northeast of Kyiv, on the second day of the Chechens' deployment. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/stop-criticising-indian-students-stuck-in-ukraine-they-need-to-be-appreciated-457069">Also read | Stop criticising Indian students stuck in Ukraine; they need to be appreciated</a>

It's unclear how many people were killed, but the number is expected to be in the hundreds, according to the article.&nbsp;

Chechen general Magomed Tushaev is alleged to have been among those killed.

According to the Daily Mail, he was the commander of the 141st motorised national guard brigade, Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov's special squad. 
 
<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>

Tushaev had also been photographed with Kadyrov, indicating his prominence to the Chechen leadership, which gained international infamy for hunting down, torturing, and killing gay individuals, according to the Daily Mail.&nbsp;

Before their supposed deaths, Kadyrov is said to have paid a visit to his doomed squadron in a Ukrainian woodland.

The claimed assassinations by the terror squadron constitute a psychological blow to Vladimir Putin's stymied ambitions to invade Ukraine.

According to the Daily Mail, Russian President Vladimir Putin despatched the gang to capture or assassinate Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, knowing well well that the fighters' ruthless reputation would instil dread in the hearts of beleaguered Ukrainians.

(With inputs from agencies)

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 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 news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. According to the Daily Mail, Ukraine dealt a big blow to Russia by supposedly killing a large contingent of vicious Chechen special forces ordered to assassinate Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelensky. The military force, which is known for its horrific aggression and human rights violations, is alleged to have been decimated after their convoy of 56 tanks was blown to smithereens by Ukrainian missile fire near Hostomel, just northeast of Kyiv, on the second day of the Chechens' deployment. Also read | Stop criticising Indian students stuck in Ukraine; they need to be appreciated It's unclear how many people were killed, but the number is expected to be in the hundreds, according to the article. Chechen general Magomed Tushaev is alleged to have been among those killed. According to the Daily Mail, he was the commander of the 141st motorised national guard brigade, Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov's special squad. Also read | Why is Ukraine such a popular choice for Indian medical students? Tushaev had also been photographed with Kadyrov, indicating his prominence to the Chechen leadership, which gained international infamy for hunting down, torturing, and killing gay individuals, according to the Daily Mail. Before their supposed deaths, Kadyrov is said to have paid a visit to his doomed squadron in a Ukrainian woodland. The claimed assassinations by the terror squadron constitute a psychological blow to Vladimir Putin's stymied ambitions to invade Ukraine. According to the Daily Mail, Russian President Vladimir Putin despatched the gang to capture or assassinate Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, knowing well well that the fighters' ruthless reputation would instil dread in the hearts of beleaguered Ukrainians. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine wipes out 'bloodthirsty' Chechen special forces sent to assassinate Zelensky

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

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.

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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>
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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

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