Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine and heavy fighting, Thousands of Ukrainians flee to Poland, and Hungary.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Thousands of Ukrainians flee to Poland, Hungary amid Russian invasion

Amid the Ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, US President Joe Biden said he has no plans to talk with Putin and has sent more forces to bolster NATO allies in Eastern Europe.

The US will not engage in war with Russia, forces will be deployed in defensive capacity

After months of speculations, calculations, assessments and back-to-back diplomatic talks, Ukraine is under attack from land and sea, this is the biggest attack in Europe since the cold war. Russian forces have now started bombing Kyiv as civilians report heaving bombing.

Heavy bombing in Kyiv: Ukraine neutralises 2 Russian missiles amid invasion

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson addressing the House of Commons- 'For this Putin will stand condemned in the eyes of the world and of history he will never be able to cleanse the blood of Ukraine from his hands and although the UK and our allies tried every avenue for diplomacy until the final hour I'm driven to conclude that Putin was always determined to attack his neighbor.'

'Putin was always determined to attack his neighbor,' says PM Boris Johnson

NATO has ordered military commanders to intensify preparations to defend allied territory putting hundreds of warplanes and ships on alert and at the same time agreeing to increase troop numbers on its eastern flank.

No plans to send troops to Ukraine, NATO will now hold emergency summit on Friday

Backdrop&nbsp;

Russia declared war on Ukraine on February 24, 2022. It is executing a plan meticulously prepared and war-gamed. NATO appears to have over-relied on the potency of its sanctions to deter Putin, which appears to be a major strategic error because it has not worked in the past and does not appear to be working now. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Instead, it has emboldened Russian leadership's resolve that NATO will be unable to respond to a quick offensive beyond condemnation, Ukraine's capacity building, and sanctions on Russia. &nbsp;&nbsp;

It has pushed Ukraine towards disaster as its President's loud demand to join NATO was neither acted upon by West, nor provided him any assurance that anyone else would do the heavy lifting or put boots on the ground in Ukraine to fight Russians, despite a massive military force imbalance in Russia's favour. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Decoding strategic and military action of Russia so far &nbsp;

The contours and logic of Russian plans were evident from its posturing over months, President Putin’s speeches to the nation and his demands made to Ukraine. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The political aim of Russia seems to be to target Ukraine’s leadership to give up demand of NATO membership, or else force a regime change, replacing it with a pro-Russian government not propagating NATO membership or agenda.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Strategically, the centre of gravity for Russian offensive is minds of Ukraine’s leadership and military to surrender to Russia with minimum military actions. This strategic goal cannot be realised without surrounding Kyiv, which is the key strategic objective; as a result, operations to encircle Kyiv and capture adjacent airbases have been launched. &nbsp;&nbsp;

After Russia recognised the independence of the Donetsk People's Republic and the Luhansk People's Republic, the liberation of the Donbas region was a foregone conclusion. &nbsp;

The military aim is to demilitarise Ukrainian military to ensure that Ukraine cannot be used as a springboard by NATO to threaten security of Russia and isolate Kyiv to facilitate regime change without military interference. To shape the battlefield, Russian &nbsp;military postured three sides of Ukraine with massive combat superiority, used forces in Belarus to invade from the North to reach Kyiv via shortest route, used its Black Sea fleet and Crimea to blockade Ukraine from South, and forces in Donbas region to invade from east and some forces from northeast to expedite consolidation. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The military operations were preceded by cyber-attacks and information warfare. Military operations were launched in a well-planned and professional manner under the banner of 'Special Operations,' beginning with air and missile strikes to neutralise air defence capability, air assets to achieve air superiority, and pulverise military targets, claiming to have destroyed over 70 military targets and installations, including 11 airfields in Ukraine, before ground elements marched in, adding conventional superiority to upgrade its hybrid war. &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

NATO’s response and future options &nbsp;

US President Joe Biden’s address on February 22, and statements of other Western leaders, clearly indicated that NATO is not going to have boots on ground in Ukraine and will depend on financial sanctions and material support to Ukraine as response to Russian aggression. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This weakness emboldened Russia to seize opportunity for offensive into Ukraine with minimum military cost, so far. NATO is still unclear about further responses, as Russian offensive is already underway; hence time for any possible military action by NATO is already over. &nbsp;&nbsp;

NATO therefore is only salvaging its own security by strengthening NATO countries bordering Ukraine/Russia to prevent any possibility of Russian adventurism into any of the NATO country, leaving Ukraine to its fate, as it is not a member of NATO yet. &nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Likely Russian action ahead &nbsp;

Russia will try to achieve its strategic objectives as fast as possible and move out of Ukraine to minimise its cost. It will avoid fighting in built up areas, as it will prolong the invasion and may not remain as occupational force to avoid backlash from segment of hostile population turning into insurgency against it. It will therefore try to maximise pressure on Ukraine by all instruments of power to submit to regime change or force it at the earliest and deescalate.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Notwithstanding what Russia wants, the resolve of Ukrainian military and leadership will determine the timeframe and escalation dynamics and the support of NATO to refuel resistance will determine the staying power. Russia is unlikely to make the mistake of annexing complete Ukraine, as it does not make sense in strategic cost benefit analysis. &nbsp;&nbsp;

To build pressure for Ukraine to surrender, Russia may also takeover some key strategic installations, till its strategic aims are achieved. It's a harsh punishment for Ukraine's uncomfortable geopolitical location and leadership's desire to join NATO, which has thrust it into the centre of a "Big Power Contestation" that is going to be a tragedy for its people, in all contingencies. &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Indian response &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The first priority for India should be to evacuate its own students and diaspora. It can push for diplomatic solutions and peaceful resolutions, as well as measures to reduce temperatures, but it should avoid taking sides because it has good connections with all of the opposing powers. &nbsp;&nbsp;

While each country's sovereignty must be maintained, both sides have rejected it when it has served their interests, as in the Iraq war, Crimea and Afghanistan. India needs to factor the weak Western response to Ukraine crisis in its strategic calculations, as it can embolden other authoritative powers like China to take similar actions in Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) &nbsp;&nbsp;

Backdrop Russia declared war on Ukraine on February 24, 2022. It is executing a plan meticulously prepared and war-gamed. NATO appears to have over-relied on the potency of its sanctions to deter Putin, which appears to be a major strategic error because it has not worked in the past and does not appear to be working now.

Backdrop Russia declared war on Ukraine on February 24, 2022. It is executing a plan meticulously prepared and war-gamed. NATO appears to have over-relied on the potency of its sanctions to deter Putin, which appears to be a major strategic error because it has not worked in the past and does not appear to be working now. Instead, it has emboldened Russian leadership's resolve that NATO will be unable to respond to a quick offensive beyond condemnation, Ukraine's capacity building, and sanctions on Russia. It has pushed Ukraine towards disaster as its President's loud demand to join NATO was neither acted upon by West, nor provided him any assurance that anyone else would do the heavy lifting or put boots on the ground in Ukraine to fight Russians, despite a massive military force imbalance in Russia's favour. Decoding strategic and military action of Russia so far The contours and logic of Russian plans were evident from its posturing over months, President Putin’s speeches to the nation and his demands made to Ukraine. The political aim of Russia seems to be to target Ukraine’s leadership to give up demand of NATO membership, or else force a regime change, replacing it with a pro-Russian government not propagating NATO membership or agenda. Strategically, the centre of gravity for Russian offensive is minds of Ukraine’s leadership and military to surrender to Russia with minimum military actions. This strategic goal cannot be realised without surrounding Kyiv, which is the key strategic objective; as a result, operations to encircle Kyiv and capture adjacent airbases have been launched. After Russia recognised the independence of the Donetsk People's Republic and the Luhansk People's Republic, the liberation of the Donbas region was a foregone conclusion. The military aim is to demilitarise Ukrainian military to ensure that Ukraine cannot be used as a springboard by NATO to threaten security of Russia and isolate Kyiv to facilitate regime change without military interference. To shape the battlefield, Russian military postured three sides of Ukraine with massive combat superiority, used forces in Belarus to invade from the North to reach Kyiv via shortest route, used its Black Sea fleet and Crimea to blockade Ukraine from South, and forces in Donbas region to invade from east and some forces from northeast to expedite consolidation. The military operations were preceded by cyber-attacks and information warfare. Military operations were launched in a well-planned and professional manner under the banner of 'Special Operations,' beginning with air and missile strikes to neutralise air defence capability, air assets to achieve air superiority, and pulverise military targets, claiming to have destroyed over 70 military targets and installations, including 11 airfields in Ukraine, before ground elements marched in, adding conventional superiority to upgrade its hybrid war. NATO’s response and future options US President Joe Biden’s address on February 22, and statements of other Western leaders, clearly indicated that NATO is not going to have boots on ground in Ukraine and will depend on financial sanctions and material support to Ukraine as response to Russian aggression. This weakness emboldened Russia to seize opportunity for offensive into Ukraine with minimum military cost, so far. NATO is still unclear about further responses, as Russian offensive is already underway; hence time for any possible military action by NATO is already over. NATO therefore is only salvaging its own security by strengthening NATO countries bordering Ukraine/Russia to prevent any possibility of Russian adventurism into any of the NATO country, leaving Ukraine to its fate, as it is not a member of NATO yet. Likely Russian action ahead Russia will try to achieve its strategic objectives as fast as possible and move out of Ukraine to minimise its cost. It will avoid fighting in built up areas, as it will prolong the invasion and may not remain as occupational force to avoid backlash from segment of hostile population turning into insurgency against it. It will therefore try to maximise pressure on Ukraine by all instruments of power to submit to regime change or force it at the earliest and deescalate. Notwithstanding what Russia wants, the resolve of Ukrainian military and leadership will determine the timeframe and escalation dynamics and the support of NATO to refuel resistance will determine the staying power. Russia is unlikely to make the mistake of annexing complete Ukraine, as it does not make sense in strategic cost benefit analysis. To build pressure for Ukraine to surrender, Russia may also takeover some key strategic installations, till its strategic aims are achieved. It's a harsh punishment for Ukraine's uncomfortable geopolitical location and leadership's desire to join NATO, which has thrust it into the centre of a "Big Power Contestation" that is going to be a tragedy for its people, in all contingencies. Indian response The first priority for India should be to evacuate its own students and diaspora. It can push for diplomatic solutions and peaceful resolutions, as well as measures to reduce temperatures, but it should avoid taking sides because it has good connections with all of the opposing powers. While each country's sovereignty must be maintained, both sides have rejected it when it has served their interests, as in the Iraq war, Crimea and Afghanistan. India needs to factor the weak Western response to Ukraine crisis in its strategic calculations, as it can embolden other authoritative powers like China to take similar actions in Indo-Pacific region. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion: Have big powers pushed Ukraine towards disaster?

One by one embassies are closing in Ukraine, International offices are shutting down, flights are being cancelled, hundreds of millions of dollars in investment drying up as the drum beats of war get louder Ukraine's economy is eroding. To talk more on this we are joined by Tanya Kozureva, an investigative journalist.

What's at stake for Ukraine, if Russia invades? | Tanya Kozureva Exclusive

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

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. After Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the launch of a military operation against Ukraine on Thursday (February 24), several reports emerged that the Russian forces have fired missiles at several cities in Ukraine. News agencies also stated that Russia has landed troops on its coast on Thursday, officials and media said, after President Putin authorised what he called a special military operation in the east. AFP reported that loud explosions were heard in Mariupol, which is in eastern Ukraine. A CNN correspondent reported that he heard sounds of explosions from Kharkiv and he later informed that explosions near Kyiv were missile strikes. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged the citizens not to panic and also vowed victory. He also imposed martial law across the country. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba stated how the world can help Ukraine need right now. "The world must act immediately. Future of Europe & the world is at stake," Kuleba said in a tweet, adding a to-do list. To do list: 1. Devastating sanctions on Russia NOW, including SWIFT 2. Fully isolate Russia by all means, in all formats 3. Weapons, equipment for Ukraine 4. Financial assistance 5. Humanitarian assistance ×

Russia-Ukraine conflict: What does Ukraine need right now? Its minister has some answers.

The Russian defense ministry said that it is targeting Ukrainian military infrastructure with precision weapons but there are no threats to the civilian population.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Nothing threatens Ukraine's civilian population, says Russia

The UN General Assembly is currently holding a meeting on Ukraine, the US ambassador to the United Nations is currently speaking let's take a listen.

UNGA meet on Ukraine crisis: 'Russian aggression threatens UN states,' says US ambassador to UN

As tensions continue to mount over Ukraine, Russia is strengthening its troop deployment along Ukraine's borders on the other hand NATO is trying to match Moscow's deployment, stuck in the middle is Ukraine.

Russia strengthens troop deployment along Ukraine's borders, NATO counters Russian deployment

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Russia is trying to negotiate for 30 years now as he slams the NATO alliance and announces military operations in Ukraine. US President Joe Biden condemned the 'unprovoked attack by Russia'.

Putin: 'Responsibility of bloodshed on Kyiv'

Russia has recognised breakaway regions in east Ukraine and Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered Russian military to enter it western neighbour. The Ukraine crisis was brewing for quite some time. Russia amassed more than 100,000 troops on its border with Ukraine and frantic diplomacy was taking place to avert war in Europe. All appears to have come for a nought as hostilities have erupted between Russia and Ukraine.

Spencer Critchley, a media commentator and author told WION that events in eastern Europe were "extremely disturbing" and the conflict possessed gravity equal to that of a "Civilizational moment in history"

"We have established democratic world order. Where we do things like respect each other's boundaries and do not stage military invasions just because we want to take over somebody else's country," he said.

"Vladimir Putin has been preparing for this since he gained power. He has been telling us what he believes in and he has been following up on what he believes in," he added.

According to Critchley, Putin believes in re-establishing the Russian empire.&nbsp;

It is worth noting that Vladimir Putin was a KGB spy stationed in pro-Soviet East Germany before the fall of the Soviet Union. Ukraine was a very important part of the Soviet Union before the superpower's fall in 1991.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/50-russian-occupiers-killed-we-have-losses-says-ukraine-as-casualties-rise-455989">'50 Russian occupiers killed': We have losses, says Ukraine as casualties rise</a>

Critchley said that he was 'heartened' to see western sphere demonstrate resolve to stand up to what he called 'raw aggression'.

Western powers, including the US have reacted by imposing tough sanctions on Russia. But foreign policy expert Kadira Pethiyagoda opined while talking with WION that the threat of sanctions was never going to deter Russia from an invasion.

"Any kind of economic sanctions or deterrents were not going to work because the issue for Russia was strategic. They would never allow Ukraine to become a base for NATO missiles that could reach Moscow in a very short time," he said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has strongly stated that he was fiercely against Ukraine joining North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO).

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-bow-down-ukraine-president-vows-to-fight-back-against-aggressor-russia-456029">‘Won’t bow down’: Ukraine president vows to fight back against ‘aggressor’ Russia</a>

NATO was set up with an implicit aim of checking Russian influence in Europe. Russia views NATO's expansion in Europe a huge threat. Ukraine has in past indicated its willingness to join the alliance. Many former Soviet republics have, in past joined NATO and Russia views this as western interference in its sphere of influence.&nbsp;

So is Ukraine capable to fight off Russia on its own? No, says Volodymyr Solohub who is an independent journalist.

Solohub spoke with WION from Kyiv, capital of Ukraine. He said that on Thursday (February 24) it was as if Ukrainians woke up in a different country.

He noted that though Ukraine's military had made improvements, the country was in "worse position than Rusia"

"Though military capabilities and preparedness of the Ukrainian army has improved. It is nothing compared to the capabilities of Russia," he said.

As tensions over Ukraine crisis mounted, there was frenzied diplomacy to prevent the war. After a brief window of opportunity, everything appeared to go back to where it was. But an outright Russian invasion surprised many.

Vladislav Davidzon, non-resident fellow at The Atlantic Council, said that he expected Russia to 'at the most' enhance its influence in the breakaway regions of Ukraine.

"I did not expect the worst-case predictions being made by the Americans for months and months were correct ones." he said.

Where does the situation go from here? John Blaxland, professor at Australian National University, said all bets were off.

"What Russia is trying to achieve has been a million dollar question...Russia has become increasingly assertive, adversarial, and now physically belligerent in its attempt to subdue Ukraine," he told WION.

(Disclaimer: The views of the experts do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views.)

Russia has recognised breakaway regions in east Ukraine and Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered Russian military to enter it western neighbour. The Ukraine crisis was brewing for quite some time.

Russia has recognised breakaway regions in east Ukraine and Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered Russian military to enter it western neighbour. The Ukraine crisis was brewing for quite some time. Russia amassed more than 100,000 troops on its border with Ukraine and frantic diplomacy was taking place to avert war in Europe. All appears to have come for a nought as hostilities have erupted between Russia and Ukraine. Spencer Critchley, a media commentator and author told WION that events in eastern Europe were "extremely disturbing" and the conflict possessed gravity equal to that of a "Civilizational moment in history" "We have established democratic world order. Where we do things like respect each other's boundaries and do not stage military invasions just because we want to take over somebody else's country," he said. "Vladimir Putin has been preparing for this since he gained power. He has been telling us what he believes in and he has been following up on what he believes in," he added. According to Critchley, Putin believes in re-establishing the Russian empire. It is worth noting that Vladimir Putin was a KGB spy stationed in pro-Soviet East Germany before the fall of the Soviet Union. Ukraine was a very important part of the Soviet Union before the superpower's fall in 1991. Also Read | '50 Russian occupiers killed': We have losses, says Ukraine as casualties rise Critchley said that he was 'heartened' to see western sphere demonstrate resolve to stand up to what he called 'raw aggression'. Western powers, including the US have reacted by imposing tough sanctions on Russia. But foreign policy expert Kadira Pethiyagoda opined while talking with WION that the threat of sanctions was never going to deter Russia from an invasion. "Any kind of economic sanctions or deterrents were not going to work because the issue for Russia was strategic. They would never allow Ukraine to become a base for NATO missiles that could reach Moscow in a very short time," he said. Russian President Vladimir Putin has strongly stated that he was fiercely against Ukraine joining North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). Also Read | ‘Won’t bow down’: Ukraine president vows to fight back against ‘aggressor’ Russia NATO was set up with an implicit aim of checking Russian influence in Europe. Russia views NATO's expansion in Europe a huge threat. Ukraine has in past indicated its willingness to join the alliance. Many former Soviet republics have, in past joined NATO and Russia views this as western interference in its sphere of influence. So is Ukraine capable to fight off Russia on its own? No, says Volodymyr Solohub who is an independent journalist. Solohub spoke with WION from Kyiv, capital of Ukraine. He said that on Thursday (February 24) it was as if Ukrainians woke up in a different country. He noted that though Ukraine's military had made improvements, the country was in "worse position than Rusia" "Though military capabilities and preparedness of the Ukrainian army has improved. It is nothing compared to the capabilities of Russia," he said. As tensions over Ukraine crisis mounted, there was frenzied diplomacy to prevent the war. After a brief window of opportunity, everything appeared to go back to where it was. But an outright Russian invasion surprised many. Vladislav Davidzon, non-resident fellow at The Atlantic Council, said that he expected Russia to 'at the most' enhance its influence in the breakaway regions of Ukraine. "I did not expect the worst-case predictions being made by the Americans for months and months were correct ones." he said. Where does the situation go from here? John Blaxland, professor at Australian National University, said all bets were off. "What Russia is trying to achieve has been a million dollar question...Russia has become increasingly assertive, adversarial, and now physically belligerent in its attempt to subdue Ukraine," he told WION. (Disclaimer: The views of the experts do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views.)

Ukraine conflict: Putin was 'preparing for this since he gained power'

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to hold talks with Russia's President Vladimir Putin. For more on this now joining us is our principal diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal live from New Delhi.

Sources: Indian PM Narendra Modi to hold talks with Russian Prez Putin amid conflict with Ukraine

As tensions mount over the Ukraine crisis, the United Nations Security Council's emergency meeting on the crisis is underway. The member state will vote on a resolution condemning Russia.

Emergency UNSC meeting on Ukraine: Security Council to vote on a resolution condemning Russia

India's Foreign Secretary, Harsh V Shringla, told the media on Thursday that 4,000 Indians had fled Ukraine in the last few days while speaking about the Russia-Ukraine conflict.&nbsp;

"We started the registration of Indian nationals...about a month ago...We found that 20,000 Indian nationals were there," he added.

He said the Ministry of External Affairs' control room has received 980 calls and 850 emails.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-envoy-seeks-pm-modis-intervention-in-russia-ukraine-conflict-cites-chanakya-and-kautilya-456035">Ukraine envoy seeks PM Modi's intervention in Russia-Ukraine conflict; cites Chanakya and Kautilya</a>

During a Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting in the midst of the Ukraine crisis, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that the safety and security of Indian nationals in Ukraine is the government's top priority.

At a press conference on the crisis, Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla stated this. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/50-russian-occupiers-killed-we-have-losses-says-ukraine-as-casualties-rise-455989">'50 Russian occupiers killed': We have losses, says Ukraine as casualties rise</a>

He went on to say that the situation on the ground is challenging and changing swiftly.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine's envoy to India addresses the media about ongoing Russian invasion

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraines-envoy-to-india-addresses-the-media-about-ongoing-russian-invasion-456020/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Foreign Secretary, Harsh V Shringla, told the media on Thursday that 4,000 Indians had fled Ukraine in the last few days while speaking about the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

India's Foreign Secretary, Harsh V Shringla, told the media on Thursday that 4,000 Indians had fled Ukraine in the last few days while speaking about the Russia-Ukraine conflict. "We started the registration of Indian nationals...about a month ago...We found that 20,000 Indian nationals were there," he added. He said the Ministry of External Affairs' control room has received 980 calls and 850 emails. ALSO READ | Ukraine envoy seeks PM Modi's intervention in Russia-Ukraine conflict; cites Chanakya and Kautilya During a Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting in the midst of the Ukraine crisis, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that the safety and security of Indian nationals in Ukraine is the government's top priority. At a press conference on the crisis, Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla stated this. Also read | '50 Russian occupiers killed': We have losses, says Ukraine as casualties rise He went on to say that the situation on the ground is challenging and changing swiftly. Watch | Ukraine's envoy to India addresses the media about ongoing Russian invasion (With inputs from agencies)

4,000 Indians left Ukraine recently: Govt on Russia-Ukraine war

After months of speculations, calculations, assessments and back-to-back diplomatic talks, Ukraine is under attack from land and sea, this is the biggest attack in Europe since the cold war.

Ukraine under attack from land and sea, 'full scale' military operation underway

Europe's worst nightmare has come true one of its largest countries is under attack. The US president has rolled out the first batch of sanctions in what they say could be an ever fiercer and broader cascade of financial sanctions and penalties over Russia's moves against Ukraine.

West readies sanctions against Russia, Putin faces global condemnation

Global stocks and U.S. bond yields dived on Thursday, while the dollar, gold and oil prices rocketed higher as Russian troops landed in Ukrainian cities on the Black Sea and Ukraine said Moscow had launched a full-scale invasion.

Russian troops landed in the Ukrainian Black Sea port of Odessa and in Mariupol in the eastern Ukrainian region of Donetsk, Russian news agencies reported.

At the same time, Ukrainian military command centres in the cities of Kyiv and Kharkiv came under attack by missile strikes, the Ukrainska Pravda news website cited a Ukrainian interior ministry official as saying.

The attacks came after a blistering warning from Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday. Putin called on Ukrainian soldiers to immediately lay down their weapons and go home, and said the responsibility for any bloodshed will be on the conscience "of the Ukrainian regime", according to comments carried by Russian news agencies.

Putin also authorised special military operations in Ukraine's Donbass region.

Several explosions were heard in the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, before dawn, after an initial series of sounds similar to artillery fire, a Reuters witness reported, shortly after Russia announced the military operation.

The comments worsened an already grim selloff in Asian trade, pushing MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan down more than 3.2%, with Australian shares off more than 3% and Chinese blue chips down 1.3%.

Tokyo's Nikkei was 2.4% lower. U.S. stock&nbsp;market&nbsp;futures were also down sharply, with S&amp;P 500 e-minis down 2.3% and Nasdaq futures 2.8% weaker.

"The&nbsp;market&nbsp;was always trying to judge if they would stop at Donbass, and it looks pretty clear that they are moving toward Kyiv, which was always one of the worst case scenarios, because we now have a long night ahead of us trying to understand how bad this gets, and what sanctions get put up, because there has to be a fresh round of sanctions now against Putin and the Russian government," said Chris Weston, head of research at Pepperstone.

"That's where the worst case, or the bear case scenario is for&nbsp;markets, and that's what we're seeing. There are no buyers here for risk, and there are a lot of sellers out there, so this&nbsp;market&nbsp;is getting hit very hard."

Asset&nbsp;markets have seen a sharp increase in volatility over the deepening crisis, with the Cboe Volatility Index, known as Wall Street's fear gauge, up more than 55% over the past nine days.

Brent crude futures, which seesawed between sharp rises and falls on Wednesday, jumped more than 3.5% to shoot past $100 a barrel on Thursday for the first time since September 2014. West Texas Intermediate leaped 4.6% to $96.22 per barrel, their highest since August 2014.[O/R]

Spot gold jumped more than 1.7% to hit its highest level since early January 2021. [GOL/]

The deepening selloff in equities came after U.S. stocks already took a beating on Wednesday, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average down 1.38% to barely above the level that would have confirmed a correction. The MSCI World Index, a leading gauge of equity&nbsp;markets globally, skidded to its lowest level since April 2021.

Investors have also been grappling with the prospect of imminent policy tightening by the U.S. Federal Reserve aimed at combating surging inflation, which NAB analysts say could be exacerbated by a commodities supply shock.

While expectations of an aggressive 50-basis-point hike at the Fed's March meeting have eased, Fed funds futures continue to point to at least six rate hikes this year. [FEDWATCH]

All the same, immediate geopolitical threats weighed on U.S. yields on Thursday, pushing the benchmark U.S. 10-year yield down sharply to 1.8681% from its U.S. close of 1.977% on Wednesday. The 2-year yield also fell, to 1.5% from a close of 1.6%.

The global flight to safety boosted the dollar, which jumped more than half a percent a basket of other major trading partners to 96.715.

The euro was down 0.8% on the day at $1.1220.

The Russian rouble turned violently lower after posting small gains early in the session. It was last down nearly 4% on top of a 3% slump against the dollar on Wednesday.

The sell-off spread to cryptocurrency&nbsp;markets, pushing bitcoin below $35,000 for the first time in a month.

"Markets are now more adequately pricing in the risk of something horrific happening. That combined with the uncertainty is a horrible environment to be in. No one wants risk exposure when that's floating around," said Rob Carnell, head of Asia Pacific research at ING.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia announces military operations in Ukraine as tensions mount to their climax

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Global stocks and U.S. bond yields dived on Thursday, while the dollar, gold and oil prices rocketed higher as Russian troops landed in Ukrainian cities on the Black Sea and Ukraine said Moscow had launched a full-scale invasion.

Global stocks and U.S. bond yields dived on Thursday, while the dollar, gold and oil prices rocketed higher as Russian troops landed in Ukrainian cities on the Black Sea and Ukraine said Moscow had launched a full-scale invasion. Russian troops landed in the Ukrainian Black Sea port of Odessa and in Mariupol in the eastern Ukrainian region of Donetsk, Russian news agencies reported. At the same time, Ukrainian military command centres in the cities of Kyiv and Kharkiv came under attack by missile strikes, the Ukrainska Pravda news website cited a Ukrainian interior ministry official as saying. The attacks came after a blistering warning from Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday. Putin called on Ukrainian soldiers to immediately lay down their weapons and go home, and said the responsibility for any bloodshed will be on the conscience "of the Ukrainian regime", according to comments carried by Russian news agencies. Putin also authorised special military operations in Ukraine's Donbass region. Several explosions were heard in the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, before dawn, after an initial series of sounds similar to artillery fire, a Reuters witness reported, shortly after Russia announced the military operation. The comments worsened an already grim selloff in Asian trade, pushing MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan down more than 3.2%, with Australian shares off more than 3% and Chinese blue chips down 1.3%. Tokyo's Nikkei was 2.4% lower. U.S. stock market futures were also down sharply, with S&P 500 e-minis down 2.3% and Nasdaq futures 2.8% weaker. "The market was always trying to judge if they would stop at Donbass, and it looks pretty clear that they are moving toward Kyiv, which was always one of the worst case scenarios, because we now have a long night ahead of us trying to understand how bad this gets, and what sanctions get put up, because there has to be a fresh round of sanctions now against Putin and the Russian government," said Chris Weston, head of research at Pepperstone. "That's where the worst case, or the bear case scenario is for markets, and that's what we're seeing. There are no buyers here for risk, and there are a lot of sellers out there, so this market is getting hit very hard." Asset markets have seen a sharp increase in volatility over the deepening crisis, with the Cboe Volatility Index, known as Wall Street's fear gauge, up more than 55% over the past nine days. Brent crude futures, which seesawed between sharp rises and falls on Wednesday, jumped more than 3.5% to shoot past $100 a barrel on Thursday for the first time since September 2014. West Texas Intermediate leaped 4.6% to $96.22 per barrel, their highest since August 2014.[O/R] Spot gold jumped more than 1.7% to hit its highest level since early January 2021. [GOL/] The deepening selloff in equities came after U.S. stocks already took a beating on Wednesday, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average down 1.38% to barely above the level that would have confirmed a correction. The MSCI World Index, a leading gauge of equity markets globally, skidded to its lowest level since April 2021. Investors have also been grappling with the prospect of imminent policy tightening by the U.S. Federal Reserve aimed at combating surging inflation, which NAB analysts say could be exacerbated by a commodities supply shock. While expectations of an aggressive 50-basis-point hike at the Fed's March meeting have eased, Fed funds futures continue to point to at least six rate hikes this year. [FEDWATCH] All the same, immediate geopolitical threats weighed on U.S. yields on Thursday, pushing the benchmark U.S. 10-year yield down sharply to 1.8681% from its U.S. close of 1.977% on Wednesday. The 2-year yield also fell, to 1.5% from a close of 1.6%. The global flight to safety boosted the dollar, which jumped more than half a percent a basket of other major trading partners to 96.715. The euro was down 0.8% on the day at $1.1220. The Russian rouble turned violently lower after posting small gains early in the session. It was last down nearly 4% on top of a 3% slump against the dollar on Wednesday. The sell-off spread to cryptocurrency markets, pushing bitcoin below $35,000 for the first time in a month. "Markets are now more adequately pricing in the risk of something horrific happening. That combined with the uncertainty is a horrible environment to be in. No one wants risk exposure when that's floating around," said Rob Carnell, head of Asia Pacific research at ING. WATCH | Russia announces military operations in Ukraine as tensions mount to their climax ×

Global market plunges, stocks dive after Vladimir Putin launches military operations in Ukraine

In a surprise televised address on Thursday (February 24), Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a military operation 'to demilitarise Ukraine'.&nbsp;

Moments after that, a CNN correspondent reported that he heard sounds of explosions from Kharkiv. He later informed citing the Ukrainian interior ministry that explosions near Kyiv were missile strikes.&nbsp;

AFP news agency also reported that explosions were heard in Mariupol, which is in eastern Ukraine. The explosions were heard before dawn Thursday in Ukraine's capital Kyiv and the eastern port city of Mariupol.&nbsp;

AFP correspondents in both cities heard powerful blasts and in Mariupol, close to the frontline and the Russian border, residents reported hearing artillery in the city's eastern suburbs.&nbsp;

Here's a video of&nbsp;explosions. 

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

&nbsp;

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BREAKING: Explosions in Ukraine's city of Mariupol <a href="https://t.co/57ZZVyx5w2">pic.twitter.com/57ZZVyx5w2</a>
— The Spectator Index (@spectatorindex) <a href="https://twitter.com/spectatorindex/status/1496691616492691460?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba said in a tweet, "Putin has launched a full-scale war against Ukraine."&nbsp;

"Strikes continue on peaceful Ukrainian cities. This is a war of aggression. Ukraine will defend and win. The world can and must stop Putin. It's time to act - just now," he added.&nbsp;

Ukraine Representative to Russian Representative at UN emergency meeting said, "Russian President on record declared war...It's the responsibility of this body to stop this war. I call on everyone to stop the war. "Should I play the video of your president calling the war."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia announces military operations in Ukraine as tensions mount to their climax

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In a surprise televised address on Thursday (February 24), Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a military operation 'to demilitarise Ukraine'. Moments after that, a CNN correspondent reported that he heard sounds of explosions from Kharkiv.

In a surprise televised address on Thursday (February 24), Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a military operation 'to demilitarise Ukraine'. Moments after that, a CNN correspondent reported that he heard sounds of explosions from Kharkiv. He later informed citing the Ukrainian interior ministry that explosions near Kyiv were missile strikes. AFP news agency also reported that explosions were heard in Mariupol, which is in eastern Ukraine. The explosions were heard before dawn Thursday in Ukraine's capital Kyiv and the eastern port city of Mariupol. AFP correspondents in both cities heard powerful blasts and in Mariupol, close to the frontline and the Russian border, residents reported hearing artillery in the city's eastern suburbs. Here's a video of explosions. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. BREAKING: Explosions in Ukraine's city of Mariupol pic.twitter.com/57ZZVyx5w2 — The Spectator Index (@spectatorindex) February 24, 2022 × Meanwhile, Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba said in a tweet, "Putin has launched a full-scale war against Ukraine." "Strikes continue on peaceful Ukrainian cities. This is a war of aggression. Ukraine will defend and win. The world can and must stop Putin. It's time to act - just now," he added. Ukraine Representative to Russian Representative at UN emergency meeting said, "Russian President on record declared war...It's the responsibility of this body to stop this war. I call on everyone to stop the war. "Should I play the video of your president calling the war." WATCH | Russia announces military operations in Ukraine as tensions mount to their climax ×

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Explosions reported in Kyiv after Vladimir Putin launches military operations

Reacting to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, European markets have plummeted in trading. Today, major European markets including France, Germany and UK are all in deep red, plunging up to five percent.

Reacting to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, European markets have plummeted in trading

Pics: Underground metro stations in Kyiv serve as bomb shelters amid Russian invasion

As Russian missiles continue to slam into Ukraine, Kyiv has closed its airspace for commercial flights. The Indian government is making alternate arrangements now to airlift the stranded nationals out of the conflict zone, this after a special Air India flight returned mid-air as the Ukrainian airspace was shut down.

Stay in nearby bomb shelters: Indian embassy issues fresh advisory to citizens in Ukraine

Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine, has appealed for international assistance he has been urging civilians also to come forward and defend the country but has West come forward to support Ukraine?

Amid the ongoing Russian-Ukraine conflict, has West come forward to support Ukraine?

Nations and world leaders are condemning Russian President Vladimir Putin's unprovoked attack on Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron stated that the Russian attack in Ukraine will be the turning point in European history.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Macron strongly condemns Russia's unprovoked attack on Ukraine

'Coordinated actions announced by the European Union, NATO allies and partners sends a strong message of unity and it demonstrates how alone and isolated Russia is. I will convene a virtual NATO summit tomorrow to address the consequences of Russia's actions,' says Jens Stoltenberg Secretary General of NATO.

Coordinated actions by the EU, NATO sends a strong message of how alone and isolated Russia is: NATO

As Russian missiles continue to slam into Ukraine, Kyiv has closed down its airspace for commercial flights. The Indian government is making alternate arrangements to airlift stranded nationals out of the conflict zone, this after a special Air India flight returned mid air as the Ukrainian airspace was shut.

India making alternative arrangements for students amid Russia-Ukraine conflict

Two Indian students who are currently in Kyiv in Ukraine are joined on WION. What's happening around, are the students safe? Have students been in touch with the embassy? Listen in!

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Indian students exclusive on WION

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Russia is trying to negotiate for 30 years now as he slams the NATO alliance and announces military operations in Ukraine.

Russia announces military operations in Ukraine as tensions mount to their climax

In the midst of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan met with Russian President Vladimir Putin today, despite last-minute calls and warnings from the West. 
 
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan are discussing the cooperation between the countries and regional issues at a meeting in Moscow, the Kremlin said.

"The leaders of the two countries are discussing the main issues of bilateral cooperation. An exchange of views is taking place on topical regional topics, including the situation in South Asia," the Kremlin said in a statement.

Earlier, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said, "What a time I have come, so much excitement," while interacting with members of the delegation that welcomed him.

Imran Khan can also be heard saying, "I am so excited to come to Moscow."

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“What a time I have come, so much excitement", PM Imran Khan says after landing in Moscow, Russia <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UkraineRussiaCrisis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UkraineRussiaCrisis</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kiev?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kiev</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Putin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Putin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RussiaUkraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RussiaUkraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/RzKHEoTlij">pic.twitter.com/RzKHEoTlij</a>
— Murtaza Ali Shah (@MurtazaViews) <a href="https://twitter.com/MurtazaViews/status/1496737135478644740?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Imran Khan was welcomed at the airport by Russian deputy foreign minister Igor Morgulov, who was escorted by the Russian military.&nbsp;

Khan arrived in Russia on a two-day visit yesterday, the first by a Pakistani prime minister in more than two decades.

In response to the visit, the United States stated that it is the obligation of every "responsible country" to express opposition to Russia's activities in Ukraine.&nbsp; 
 
Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-in-moscow-to-meet-president-putin-amidst-ukraine-conflict-456105/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We've communicated to Pakistan our position regarding Russia's further renewed invasion of Ukraine and we have briefed them on our efforts to pursue diplomacy over war," US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said.

The time of the trip was not acceptable, according to a Pakistani geopolitical analyst quoted in the country's The News daily earlier this week.

Analyst and Balochistan politician Jan Achakzai told news agency ANI that Russia did not invite Mr. Khan, but that an invitation was sought.&nbsp;

"Is it Pakistan's irrelevance or a clear reading of the US that we will come back from Russia empty-handed and will beg for financial concessions from Washington in forums like the IMF, FATF, etc, from a position of further weakness?" he questioned. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-the-name-of-humanity-un-chiefs-plea-bidens-warning-and-more-leaders-react-to-russian-aggressions-455883">'In the name of humanity': UN Chief's plea, Biden's warning and more; leaders react to Russian aggressions</a>

Mr. Achakzai said that Russia is not going to give Pakistan anything because Moscow losing India for the sake of Islamabad's support is not an option.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the midst of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan met with Russian President Vladimir Putin today, despite last-minute calls and warnings from the West.

In the midst of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan met with Russian President Vladimir Putin today, despite last-minute calls and warnings from the West. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan are discussing the cooperation between the countries and regional issues at a meeting in Moscow, the Kremlin said. "The leaders of the two countries are discussing the main issues of bilateral cooperation. An exchange of views is taking place on topical regional topics, including the situation in South Asia," the Kremlin said in a statement. Earlier, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said, "What a time I have come, so much excitement," while interacting with members of the delegation that welcomed him. Imran Khan can also be heard saying, "I am so excited to come to Moscow." “What a time I have come, so much excitement", PM Imran Khan says after landing in Moscow, Russia #UkraineRussiaCrisis #Kiev #Putin #RussiaUkraine #Pakistan pic.twitter.com/RzKHEoTlij — Murtaza Ali Shah (@MurtazaViews) February 24, 2022 × Imran Khan was welcomed at the airport by Russian deputy foreign minister Igor Morgulov, who was escorted by the Russian military. Khan arrived in Russia on a two-day visit yesterday, the first by a Pakistani prime minister in more than two decades. In response to the visit, the United States stated that it is the obligation of every "responsible country" to express opposition to Russia's activities in Ukraine. Watch: "We've communicated to Pakistan our position regarding Russia's further renewed invasion of Ukraine and we have briefed them on our efforts to pursue diplomacy over war," US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said. The time of the trip was not acceptable, according to a Pakistani geopolitical analyst quoted in the country's The News daily earlier this week. Analyst and Balochistan politician Jan Achakzai told news agency ANI that Russia did not invite Mr. Khan, but that an invitation was sought. "Is it Pakistan's irrelevance or a clear reading of the US that we will come back from Russia empty-handed and will beg for financial concessions from Washington in forums like the IMF, FATF, etc, from a position of further weakness?" he questioned. Also read | 'In the name of humanity': UN Chief's plea, Biden's warning and more; leaders react to Russian aggressions Mr. Achakzai said that Russia is not going to give Pakistan anything because Moscow losing India for the sake of Islamabad's support is not an option. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin and an 'excited' Imran Khan discuss cooperation and exchange views on regional issues

Russian forces have invaded Ukraine as we've been telling you for days confirming the worst fears of the West, this is the biggest attack in Europe since the cold war, currently several Ukrainian cities are under attack.

Russia-Ukraine conflict | Kyiv: Heavy fighting in east Ukraine

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