In an interview, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed confidence in President-elect Donald Trump's ability to broker peace talks with Russia. Watch this report for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine President Zelensky optimistic about Trump's help

Russia strongly condemns the use of US-made missiles on its soil, escalating tensions in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Moscow Says, 'Destroyed A Record 72 Drones From Ukraine'

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine & The West Cross Russia's Red Line

Russia strongly condemns the use of US-made missiles on its soil, escalating tensions in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Russia-Ukraine War: Kyiv's Action Will Be Met With Retaliation, Says Moscow

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia opposes use of US-made missiles on its soil

Ukraine launches a U.S.-backed ATACMS missile as part of its ongoing offensive, marking a significant escalation in the conflict.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine fires U.S.-backed ATACMS missile in strategic strike

Russia threatens retaliation after claiming Ukraine launched US-supplied missiles in recent attacks.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia vows retaliation over Ukraine's use of US-supplied missiles

Hours after Ukraine fired eight US-supplied Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missiles on Saturday (Jan 4),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=+Russia+" rel="dofollow">Russia </a>said that it shot down the missiles and warned that they would retaliate.&nbsp;
"These actions by the Kyiv regime, which is supported by Western curators, will be met with retaliation," the Russian defence ministry said.
Russia said that it shot down eight US-supplied ATACMS, for which Moscow warned that the use of those missiles could spark a hypersonic ballistic missile attack on central Kyiv.&nbsp;
Further, the Kremlin denounced that it could cause grave escalation.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-strikes-russia-with-us-made-long-range-missiles-for-first-time-report-777398" rel="dofollow">Also read: Russia claims Ukraine fired six US-made long range missiles after Biden admin gave nod for use</a>
"Air defense systems downed eight ATACMS US-made missiles and 72 drones," the Russian Defense Ministry said.
US President Joe Biden authorised Ukraine to use these long-range missiles to attack inside Russia last year.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-jamming-throws-us-made-precision-weapons-off-target-as-ukraine-pleas-for-weaponry-upgrades-725226" rel="dofollow">Also read: Russian jamming throws US-made precision weapons off target as Ukraine pleas for weaponry upgrades</a>
Ukraine struck Russia with US-made long-range missiles for the first time in November, even as Russian President Vladimir Putin talked of a 'nuclear response'.&nbsp;
The ministry said that Kyiv fired six US-made ATACMS at Russia&rsquo;s Bryansk region.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russia-launches-barrage-of-missiles-on-kyiv-killing-1-and-cutting-heating-to-numerous-buildings-785532" rel="dofollow">Also read: Russia launches barrage of missiles on Kyiv, damaging six diplomatic missions</a>
<h2>What is the Army Tactical Missile System?</h2>
The Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) is a surface-to-surface ballistic missile that can hit targets at up to 300 km.&nbsp;
The range of the missile makes it particularly significant for Ukraine.&nbsp;
ATACMS was built by the defence manufacturer Lockheed Martin. They are fuelled by solid rocket propellant and follow a ballistic path into the atmosphere before coming back down at a high speed and high angle, which makes them difficult to intercept.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos
(With inputs from agencies)

World: "These actions by the Kyiv regime, which is supported by Western curators, will be met with retaliation," the Russian defence ministry said.

Hours after Ukraine fired eight US-supplied Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missiles on Saturday (Jan 4), Russia said that it shot down the missiles and warned that they would retaliate. "These actions by the Kyiv regime, which is supported by Western curators, will be met with retaliation," the Russian defence ministry said. Russia said that it shot down eight US-supplied ATACMS, for which Moscow warned that the use of those missiles could spark a hypersonic ballistic missile attack on central Kyiv. Further, the Kremlin denounced that it could cause grave escalation. Also read: Russia claims Ukraine fired six US-made long range missiles after Biden admin gave nod for use "Air defense systems downed eight ATACMS US-made missiles and 72 drones," the Russian Defense Ministry said. US President Joe Biden authorised Ukraine to use these long-range missiles to attack inside Russia last year. Also read: Russian jamming throws US-made precision weapons off target as Ukraine pleas for weaponry upgrades Ukraine struck Russia with US-made long-range missiles for the first time in November, even as Russian President Vladimir Putin talked of a 'nuclear response'. The ministry said that Kyiv fired six US-made ATACMS at Russia’s Bryansk region. Also read: Russia launches barrage of missiles on Kyiv, damaging six diplomatic missions What is the Army Tactical Missile System? The Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) is a surface-to-surface ballistic missile that can hit targets at up to 300 km. The range of the missile makes it particularly significant for Ukraine. ATACMS was built by the defence manufacturer Lockheed Martin. They are fuelled by solid rocket propellant and follow a ballistic path into the atmosphere before coming back down at a high speed and high angle, which makes them difficult to intercept. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Russia vows 'retaliation' after Ukraine fires US-supplied ATACMS missiles

Russia and Ukraine continue to launch drone attacks against each other. According to their daily military briefings, the Russian air defense unit shot down over 30 drones from Ukraine. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Shoots Down Over 30 Ukrainian Drones

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine Launches Several Drone Attacks In Russian Regions

Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, former U.S. President Donald Trump has promised to push for peace, but his statements are raising concerns about potential compromises on Ukraine’s sovereignty. Analysts worry about the implications of Trump's approach to the conflict.

Russia-Ukraine war: Trump's peace promise fears of Ukrainian compromise

Russia launched a devastating aerial attack on the heart of Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, intensifying the ongoing conflict. The strike targeted key locations, causing significant damage and raising concerns over the city's safety and security as the war continues.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian Aerial Attack On The Heart Of Ukrainian Capital

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict marks the end of Europe's reliance on Russian gas, as countries seek alternative energy sources. With pipelines cut off and supply routes disrupted, Europe is now navigating a critical shift toward energy independence and diversification.

Russia-Ukraine: Europe's Russian Gas Era Comes To An End

Ukraine's decision to turn off the taps keeping Russian gas flowing via its territory to Europe has already sown trouble in the continent's east, with Moldova declaring a state of emergency and Slovakia threatening Kyiv with retaliation.
Under a five-year deal signed in 2019 Ukraine had allowed Russia to pipe gas to Europe via its territory.&nbsp;
But that agreement is set to expire in the new year with Kyiv unwilling to extend it as a result of Moscow's invasion.&nbsp;
Although Europe has fought to wean itself off dependence on Russian gas since President Vladimir Putin sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022, several eastern European states still look to Moscow for much of their energy needs.&nbsp;
That represents an ongoing income stream for the Kremlin which Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky wishes to dry up.
Almost a third of the Russian gas sold to Europe is transported via Kyiv's territory, said Phuc-Vinh Nguyen, head of the Jacques Delors Institute's Energy Centre.
The remainder is transported via a pipeline under the Black Sea to Bulgaria, Serbia and Hungary, or else by shipments of liquefied natural gas (LNG).
But Tuesday's data from Ukrainian operator OGTSU showed deliveries via the only entry point for Russian gas into Ukraine dropping to zero as of January 1, 2025.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-year-begins-with-houthi-missile-attacks-on-israel-one-intercepted-8581933" rel="dofollow">New Year begins with Houthi missile attacks on Israel; one intercepted</a>
<h2>Moldova 'energy blackmail'&nbsp;</h2>
The situation is at its most critical in Moldova, which borders Ukraine and has to contend with Russian-backed separatists at home.
The tiny nation had already introduced a 60-day state of emergency earlier this month in anticipation of Kyiv's expected cut.
Then on Saturday, Russia's Gazprom announced it too would halt gas deliveries due to a dispute over debt, sparking furious accusations of "oppressive tactics" from Moldova's prime minister.&nbsp;
In the capital Chisinau, where most of the festive light displays will be snuffed out, some residents voiced their fear of what comes next.&nbsp;
"It's terrible, nobody knows what's going to happen. I've bought some candles and a generator," Cristina, a 21-year-old student who refused to give her surname, told AFP.
Gazprom had already reduced its deliveries to Moldova since the beginning of the invasion, with the Russian company solely supplying the unrecognised breakaway state of Transnistria.
But the Moscow-backed region's power station still provides some two-thirds of the electricity consumed across the country.&nbsp;
"The Kremlin has once again resorted to energy blackmail in order to influence the 2025 parliamentary elections and undermine our European path," said Moldova's President Maia Sandu.
The pro-European politician was reelected in November after a vote marred by accusations of Russian interference.
Sandu offered humanitarian aid for the residents of breakaway Transnistria, who would otherwise find themselves without heating in the depths of midwinter.
But the local authorities refused, said Alexandru Flenchea, a former government official and conflict resolution expert specialising in the region.
In Russia's destabilisation strategy, "Transnistria is nothing more than collateral damage", Flenchea argued.
Phuc-Vinh agreed, charging that Putin was using gas as a "geopolitical weapon" to "undermine the region, feed the resentments of the population to influence support for Ukraine and sow the seeds of discord across Europe".
Moldova's government has responded with drastic measures to limit energy consumption, notably limits on lighting in public buildings and the use of lifts.
It also intends to make up the shortfall by buying electricity from neighbouring Romania.&nbsp;
<h2>'Totally irrational'&nbsp;</h2>
With 14 billion cubic metres transported per year via Ukraine making up just five percent of the European Union's total gas imports, the bloc said it was "prepared" for the flow's cut.
In a report published in mid-December, the EU judged the impact to be limited.&nbsp;
"The Commission... has been working for more than a year specifically on preparing for a scenario without Russian gas transiting via Ukraine," it told AFP on Tuesday.
It said that the bloc's gas infrastructure had been strengthened in the past few years, and pointed to work on making "alternative supplies" available to affected countries.
After Austria's decision in December to terminate its long-term contract with Gazprom, only Slovakia is affected.
Slovakia's leader Robert Fico -- one of the Kremlin's few allies within the EU -- has cried foul over Kyiv's decision, travelling to Moscow to meet Putin in response.&nbsp;
"Accepting the unilateral decision of the Ukrainian president is totally irrational and wrong," Fico pleaded in a letter to Brussels, decrying "a major financial impact in a complicated economic period".
By way of response, the Slovak prime minister threatened to cut off the supplies of electricity Ukraine desperately needs, with Kyiv's own energy infrastructure battered by nearly three years of systematic Russian bombardment.
On the other hand neighbouring Hungary -- which like Slovakia has remained friendly to Moscow -- receives most of its Russian gas imports via the Black Sea pipeline.&nbsp;
As a result Budapest will remain largely unaffected by Ukraine's decision.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The tiny nation had already introduced a 60-day state of emergency earlier this month in anticipation of Kyiv's expected cut.

Ukraine's decision to turn off the taps keeping Russian gas flowing via its territory to Europe has already sown trouble in the continent's east, with Moldova declaring a state of emergency and Slovakia threatening Kyiv with retaliation. Under a five-year deal signed in 2019 Ukraine had allowed Russia to pipe gas to Europe via its territory. But that agreement is set to expire in the new year with Kyiv unwilling to extend it as a result of Moscow's invasion. Although Europe has fought to wean itself off dependence on Russian gas since President Vladimir Putin sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022, several eastern European states still look to Moscow for much of their energy needs. That represents an ongoing income stream for the Kremlin which Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky wishes to dry up. Almost a third of the Russian gas sold to Europe is transported via Kyiv's territory, said Phuc-Vinh Nguyen, head of the Jacques Delors Institute's Energy Centre. The remainder is transported via a pipeline under the Black Sea to Bulgaria, Serbia and Hungary, or else by shipments of liquefied natural gas (LNG). But Tuesday's data from Ukrainian operator OGTSU showed deliveries via the only entry point for Russian gas into Ukraine dropping to zero as of January 1, 2025. Also read: New Year begins with Houthi missile attacks on Israel; one intercepted Moldova 'energy blackmail' The situation is at its most critical in Moldova, which borders Ukraine and has to contend with Russian-backed separatists at home. The tiny nation had already introduced a 60-day state of emergency earlier this month in anticipation of Kyiv's expected cut. Then on Saturday, Russia's Gazprom announced it too would halt gas deliveries due to a dispute over debt, sparking furious accusations of "oppressive tactics" from Moldova's prime minister. In the capital Chisinau, where most of the festive light displays will be snuffed out, some residents voiced their fear of what comes next. "It's terrible, nobody knows what's going to happen. I've bought some candles and a generator," Cristina, a 21-year-old student who refused to give her surname, told AFP. Gazprom had already reduced its deliveries to Moldova since the beginning of the invasion, with the Russian company solely supplying the unrecognised breakaway state of Transnistria. But the Moscow-backed region's power station still provides some two-thirds of the electricity consumed across the country. "The Kremlin has once again resorted to energy blackmail in order to influence the 2025 parliamentary elections and undermine our European path," said Moldova's President Maia Sandu. The pro-European politician was reelected in November after a vote marred by accusations of Russian interference. Sandu offered humanitarian aid for the residents of breakaway Transnistria, who would otherwise find themselves without heating in the depths of midwinter. But the local authorities refused, said Alexandru Flenchea, a former government official and conflict resolution expert specialising in the region. In Russia's destabilisation strategy, "Transnistria is nothing more than collateral damage", Flenchea argued. Phuc-Vinh agreed, charging that Putin was using gas as a "geopolitical weapon" to "undermine the region, feed the resentments of the population to influence support for Ukraine and sow the seeds of discord across Europe". Moldova's government has responded with drastic measures to limit energy consumption, notably limits on lighting in public buildings and the use of lifts. It also intends to make up the shortfall by buying electricity from neighbouring Romania. 'Totally irrational' With 14 billion cubic metres transported per year via Ukraine making up just five percent of the European Union's total gas imports, the bloc said it was "prepared" for the flow's cut. In a report published in mid-December, the EU judged the impact to be limited. "The Commission... has been working for more than a year specifically on preparing for a scenario without Russian gas transiting via Ukraine," it told AFP on Tuesday. It said that the bloc's gas infrastructure had been strengthened in the past few years, and pointed to work on making "alternative supplies" available to affected countries. After Austria's decision in December to terminate its long-term contract with Gazprom, only Slovakia is affected. Slovakia's leader Robert Fico -- one of the Kremlin's few allies within the EU -- has cried foul over Kyiv's decision, travelling to Moscow to meet Putin in response. "Accepting the unilateral decision of the Ukrainian president is totally irrational and wrong," Fico pleaded in a letter to Brussels, decrying "a major financial impact in a complicated economic period". By way of response, the Slovak prime minister threatened to cut off the supplies of electricity Ukraine desperately needs, with Kyiv's own energy infrastructure battered by nearly three years of systematic Russian bombardment. On the other hand neighbouring Hungary -- which like Slovakia has remained friendly to Moscow -- receives most of its Russian gas imports via the Black Sea pipeline. As a result Budapest will remain largely unaffected by Ukraine's decision. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

End of Russian gas via Ukraine sparks unease in eastern Europe

In his New Year address, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared that Russia will continue to move forward in 2025, despite ongoing challenges and international pressure. His speech highlighted Russia’s resilience and commitment to its goals, setting the tone for the country's direction in the coming year.

Putin In New Year Address Says: Russia Will Move Forward In 2025

Two wars dominated the headlines in 2024: West Asia and Ukraine. They may pause in 2025, but will peace return in our lifetimes? Tune into the #Gravitas special year-end edition to find out more.

Year of Death: Can Peace Ever Return to West Asia, Ukraine?

Ukraine has successfully destroyed a Russian helicopter and damaged another in the Black Sea, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. The attack highlights Ukraine's continued resistance against Russian forces amid heightened tensions.

Ukraine Destroys Russian Helicopter, Damages Another In Black Sea

A scathing report from the U.S. Helsinki Commission accuses Russia of launching hybrid attacks on NATO territory. It claims that since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, sabotage operations across North America and Europe have intensified. If true, how has Moscow managed to target NATO and the West singlehandedly, despite severe sanctions? Our next report reveals more. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: NATO Must Take Shadow War Seriously: Report

Russia is set to abandon a moratorium on deploying intermediate and shorter-range nuclear missiles, citing U.S. Plans to deploy similar weapons globally. The two countries control over 90% of the global nuclear arsenals.

The New Nuclear Arms Race

A new report calls for NATO to take more decisive actions to support Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. The report emphasizes the need for stronger military and political backing to help Ukraine defend itself and counter Russia's aggression.

Russia-Ukraine War: NATO Must Take Decisive Actions To Support Ukraine, Says Report

In an interview with a Russian news agency, Foreign Minister of Russia, Lavrov, has said that Moscow is unhappy with the proposals reportedly made by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. Citing various leaks and Trump’s interview with Time magazine on December 12th, Lavrov has said Russia is not satisfied, as Trump has been talking about freezing hostilities along the line of engagement and transferring further responsibility for confronting Russia to the European nations. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Lavrov Says Ready For Talks, But It Should Address 'Root Causes'

Russia-Ukraine War: Lavrov Criticises Ukraine NATO Delay Plan

The United States has been the key ally of Israel and Ukraine in their wars with Hamas, Hezbollah, and Russia respectively. However, the nature of the support to the warring nations has been different in its own way.&nbsp;
Be it in terms of military or financial aid, America has been defending Israel and Ukraine since the beginning of the wars as it shares good relations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=zelensky" rel="dofollow">Zelensky </a>and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.&nbsp;
In comparison, Netanyahu defies US President Joe Biden more bluntly than Zelensky, as the Ukrainian president has been more sympathetic since the war started.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-israel-uses-us-thaad-system-for-first-time-to-intercept-houthi-missile-what-is-it-8573666">Watch: Israel uses US THAAD system for first time to intercept Houthi missile. What is it?</a>
Despite the US talks and advice, Zelensky has not been taking meaningful steps to achieve a realistic ceasefire with Russia. However, he is hoping to reclaim all of Ukraine's lost territory by force.&nbsp;
<h2>US support to Ukraine</h2>
The Russia-Ukraine war has been going on now for more than two years, in which Washington has been playing a key role in providing military aid to Ukraine in its fight with one of the world's most powerful militaries.&nbsp;
Since 2022, the US Congress has passed five bills and provided a total of USD 175 billion, mostly for intelligence, weapons, and training.&nbsp;
A major shift in US support for Ukraine came to light when the Biden administration authorised Kyiv to use US-supplied long-range missiles to strike deeper inside Russia.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-outgoing-us-president-biden-125-bn-military-aid-for-kyiv-8573331" rel="dofollow">Ukraine war: US Prez Biden to announce $1.25 bn military aid for Kyiv</a>
This came after Russia positioned North Korean troops along Ukraine's northern border to try to reclaim hundreds of miles of territory seized by Ukrainian forces.&nbsp;
However, now the situation can change in a larger perspective with Donald Trump coming into the picture as he will soon take over the US administration.&nbsp;
President-elect Trump's foreign policy approach has always been more isolationist, stressing a focus on "America First".&nbsp;
This can further affect the wide foreign interventions, especially in Europe and Ukraine. After returning to office, his position on support to Ukraine and NATO could shift, which can further reduce US aid to Ukraine in its war with Russia.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-sentences-singer-to-55-years-in-jail-for-criticising-ukraine-offensive-8571826" rel="dofollow">Russia sentences singer to 5.5 years in jail for criticising Ukraine offensive</a>
<h2>US support to Israel&nbsp;</h2>
As compared to the past decades, US military aid to Israel has been the highest amid its war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. In the escalating war, over 40,000 Palestinians have died, the United Nations and the Gaza health ministry stated.&nbsp;
The war began on October 7, last year, when Hamas attacked southern Israel, killing approximately 1,200 Israelis and taking hundreds of people hostage in Gaza.&nbsp;
Following that, the war has escalated into a wider region, and now, it is not just with Hamas, but also with Hezbollah and Iran.&nbsp;
The US has spent at least USD 17.9 billion on military aid to Israel since the war began, according to a report for Brown University&rsquo;s Costs of War project published in October.&nbsp;
The US, however, is bound by the Leahy Law, which means that the country cannot provide security assistance to foreign governments or groups that commit gross human rights violations.&nbsp;
However, some legal scholars have alleged that America has not applied the law in the case of Israel as it has with other West Asian countries.&nbsp;
<h2>Wider point of view</h2>
Some US and Israeli analysts have argued that Washington's aid to Israel should be reevaluated because Israel is now a wealthy country, the fourteenth richest per capita and one of the most advanced militaries in the world.
In May 2024, CFR Senior Fellow Steven A. Cook said that US military aid should be phased out over ten years and replaced with a series of bilateral agreements on security cooperation.&nbsp;
Late Martin S. Indyk, former US ambassador to Israel and CFR Distinguished Fellow, also called for alteration of the aid.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The US-Israel relationship would be a lot healthier without this dependence. Time for Israel at seventy-five to stand on its own two feet,&rdquo; he posted on X in June last year.
Meanwhile, the Russia-Ukraine war has taken a shift weeks before Donald Trump takes over the US administration, as Joe Biden rushes out billions of dollars more in military aid to Ukraine.&nbsp;
Recently, Trump has been insisting that Russia and Ukraine immediately reach a ceasefire, saying that Ukraine should probably prepare to receive less US military aid.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: America has been defending Israel and Ukraine since the beginning of the wars as it shares good relations with Ukrainian President and Israeli Prime Minister. 

The United States has been the key ally of Israel and Ukraine in their wars with Hamas, Hezbollah, and Russia respectively. However, the nature of the support to the warring nations has been different in its own way. Be it in terms of military or financial aid, America has been defending Israel and Ukraine since the beginning of the wars as it shares good relations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In comparison, Netanyahu defies US President Joe Biden more bluntly than Zelensky, as the Ukrainian president has been more sympathetic since the war started. Also read: Watch: Israel uses US THAAD system for first time to intercept Houthi missile. What is it? Despite the US talks and advice, Zelensky has not been taking meaningful steps to achieve a realistic ceasefire with Russia. However, he is hoping to reclaim all of Ukraine's lost territory by force. US support to Ukraine The Russia-Ukraine war has been going on now for more than two years, in which Washington has been playing a key role in providing military aid to Ukraine in its fight with one of the world's most powerful militaries. Since 2022, the US Congress has passed five bills and provided a total of USD 175 billion, mostly for intelligence, weapons, and training. A major shift in US support for Ukraine came to light when the Biden administration authorised Kyiv to use US-supplied long-range missiles to strike deeper inside Russia. Also read: Ukraine war: US Prez Biden to announce $1.25 bn military aid for Kyiv This came after Russia positioned North Korean troops along Ukraine's northern border to try to reclaim hundreds of miles of territory seized by Ukrainian forces. However, now the situation can change in a larger perspective with Donald Trump coming into the picture as he will soon take over the US administration. President-elect Trump's foreign policy approach has always been more isolationist, stressing a focus on "America First". This can further affect the wide foreign interventions, especially in Europe and Ukraine. After returning to office, his position on support to Ukraine and NATO could shift, which can further reduce US aid to Ukraine in its war with Russia. Also read: Russia sentences singer to 5.5 years in jail for criticising Ukraine offensive US support to Israel As compared to the past decades, US military aid to Israel has been the highest amid its war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. In the escalating war, over 40,000 Palestinians have died, the United Nations and the Gaza health ministry stated. The war began on October 7, last year, when Hamas attacked southern Israel, killing approximately 1,200 Israelis and taking hundreds of people hostage in Gaza. Following that, the war has escalated into a wider region, and now, it is not just with Hamas, but also with Hezbollah and Iran. The US has spent at least USD 17.9 billion on military aid to Israel since the war began, according to a report for Brown University’s Costs of War project published in October. The US, however, is bound by the Leahy Law, which means that the country cannot provide security assistance to foreign governments or groups that commit gross human rights violations. However, some legal scholars have alleged that America has not applied the law in the case of Israel as it has with other West Asian countries. Wider point of view Some US and Israeli analysts have argued that Washington's aid to Israel should be reevaluated because Israel is now a wealthy country, the fourteenth richest per capita and one of the most advanced militaries in the world. In May 2024, CFR Senior Fellow Steven A. Cook said that US military aid should be phased out over ten years and replaced with a series of bilateral agreements on security cooperation. Late Martin S. Indyk, former US ambassador to Israel and CFR Distinguished Fellow, also called for alteration of the aid. “The US-Israel relationship would be a lot healthier without this dependence. Time for Israel at seventy-five to stand on its own two feet,” he posted on X in June last year. Meanwhile, the Russia-Ukraine war has taken a shift weeks before Donald Trump takes over the US administration, as Joe Biden rushes out billions of dollars more in military aid to Ukraine. Recently, Trump has been insisting that Russia and Ukraine immediately reach a ceasefire, saying that Ukraine should probably prepare to receive less US military aid. (With inputs from agencies)

How US support strengthened Israel and Ukraine in their wars

The United States is set to announce $1.25 billion in military aid for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-animals-poisoned-blown-up-at-top-secret-uk-military-lab-8572706">Ukraine</a>, according to a report by The Associated Press (AP).
<h2>What will the aid package include?</h2>
This aid package will include a large quantity of munitions, along with those for the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) and the HAWK air defence system. Stinger missiles, along with 155 mm and 105 mm artillery rounds, are also part of the aid.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-troops-killing-themselves-rather-than-surrendering-to-ukraine-forces-claims-us-8573283">N Korean troops killing themselves rather than surrendering to Ukraine, claims US</a>
The announcement will mark the Biden administration&rsquo;s 22nd aid package under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. Officials are expected to make the announcement on Monday, according to AP.
Earlier this month, President Biden announced a separate $988 million aid package for Ukraine, aimed at ensuring the country has "the tools it needs to prevail in its fight against Russian aggression."
During a recent speech at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in California, Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin reaffirmed the administration&rsquo;s stance on supporting Ukraine. 
"This administration has made its choice. And so has a bipartisan coalition in Congress. The next administration must make its own choice," Austin said. 
"But, from this library, from this podium, I am confident that President Reagan would have stood on the side of Ukraine, American security and human freedom," he added.
<h2>Why does this package matter?</h2>
This new package comes amidst Russia's recent attacks on Ukraine&rsquo;s power infrastructure and ahead of the incoming Trump administration.
During his campaign, President-elect <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-elect-donald-trump-names-fierce-fighter-kevin-cabrera-as-panama-ambassador-8567276" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump</a>, along with Vice President-elect JD Vance, heavily criticised the Biden administration&rsquo;s support for Ukraine following Russia&rsquo;s invasion in 2022.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/portable-speaker-bomb-russia-ukraine-war-murder-plot-by-ukraine-8573309">Ukraine war: Russia claims it foiled Kyiv plot to kill top officer using &lsquo;speaker bomb&rsquo;</a>
Trump during his campaign had claimed he would bring the war to an end "within 24 hours" of taking office, although he did not provide specific details on how he would do it. 
While Vice President-elect JD Vance had earlier said that Ukraine should cede the territory seized by Russia and establish a demilitarised zone. This proposal was rejected by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos&nbsp;and&nbsp;videos.

World, Ukraine war: President Biden announced a separate $988 million aid package for Ukraine ensuring the country has "the tools it needs to prevail in its fight against Russia"

The United States is set to announce $1.25 billion in military aid for Ukraine, according to a report by The Associated Press (AP). What will the aid package include? This aid package will include a large quantity of munitions, along with those for the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) and the HAWK air defence system. Stinger missiles, along with 155 mm and 105 mm artillery rounds, are also part of the aid. Also read: N Korean troops killing themselves rather than surrendering to Ukraine, claims US The announcement will mark the Biden administration’s 22nd aid package under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. Officials are expected to make the announcement on Monday, according to AP. Earlier this month, President Biden announced a separate $988 million aid package for Ukraine, aimed at ensuring the country has "the tools it needs to prevail in its fight against Russian aggression." During a recent speech at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in California, Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin reaffirmed the administration’s stance on supporting Ukraine. "This administration has made its choice. And so has a bipartisan coalition in Congress. The next administration must make its own choice," Austin said. "But, from this library, from this podium, I am confident that President Reagan would have stood on the side of Ukraine, American security and human freedom," he added. Why does this package matter? This new package comes amidst Russia's recent attacks on Ukraine’s power infrastructure and ahead of the incoming Trump administration. During his campaign, President-elect Donald Trump, along with Vice President-elect JD Vance, heavily criticised the Biden administration’s support for Ukraine following Russia’s invasion in 2022. Also read: Ukraine war: Russia claims it foiled Kyiv plot to kill top officer using ‘speaker bomb’ Trump during his campaign had claimed he would bring the war to an end "within 24 hours" of taking office, although he did not provide specific details on how he would do it. While Vice President-elect JD Vance had earlier said that Ukraine should cede the territory seized by Russia and establish a demilitarised zone. This proposal was rejected by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukraine war: US Prez Biden to announce $1.25 bn military aid for Kyiv

Russia&rsquo;s Federal Security Service (FSB) Saturday (Dec 28) said that it had foiled a Ukrainian plot to kill a high-ranking Russian officer and a blogger using a music speaker fitted with a bomb. The FSB didn&rsquo;t identify the potential targets of the alleged plot in its statement. It said the Ukrainian intelligence agency GUR had contacted a Russian citizen through messaging app Telegram.
The Russian national then allegedly managed to retrieve the bomb from a &lsquo;hiding place&rsquo; in capital Moscow. He then concealed the bomb, equivalent to 1 1/2 kg of TNT and packed with ball bearings, inside a portable music speaker.
The major allegation by Russia comes weeks after Ukraine&rsquo;s SBU assassinated the chief of Russia's Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Protection Troops in Moscow outside his apartment. Lieutenant General Kirillov was Russia&rsquo;s highest-ranking officer killed in the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war.
The SBU agents reportedly attached a bomb to an electric scooter and exploded it as Kirillov and his aide walked towards their official car. Ukraine had accused Kirillov of staging several chemical attacks against Kyiv forces during the war.
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News agency Reuters reported that Kirillov&rsquo;s death may have prompted Russian authorities to review security protocols for the army's top brass.
<h2>Other high profile killings</h2>
Russia has accused Ukraine of carrying out several targeted assassinations since the start of Moscow's full-scale war on Ukraine in February 2022. Amongst the major high-profile cases are the 2022 killing of Darya Dugina, the daughter of Russian nationalist ideologue Alexander Dugin; and the 2023 caf&eacute; bombing that led to the death of a Russian pro-war blogger named Vladlen Tatarsky. Last year, a shooting incident targeted a Russian submarine commander accused of war crimes by Kyiv.
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Following the death of Kirillov earlier this year, the Ukraine envoy of US President-elect Donald Trump condemned the move and said such killings were "not really smart" and going "a little bit too far."
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

The major allegation by Russia comes weeks after Ukraine’s SBU assassinated the chief of Russia's Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Protection Troops in Moscow outside his apartment

Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) Saturday (Dec 28) said that it had foiled a Ukrainian plot to kill a high-ranking Russian officer and a blogger using a music speaker fitted with a bomb. The FSB didn’t identify the potential targets of the alleged plot in its statement. It said the Ukrainian intelligence agency GUR had contacted a Russian citizen through messaging app Telegram. The Russian national then allegedly managed to retrieve the bomb from a ‘hiding place’ in capital Moscow. He then concealed the bomb, equivalent to 1 1/2 kg of TNT and packed with ball bearings, inside a portable music speaker. The major allegation by Russia comes weeks after Ukraine’s SBU assassinated the chief of Russia's Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Protection Troops in Moscow outside his apartment. Lieutenant General Kirillov was Russia’s highest-ranking officer killed in the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war. The SBU agents reportedly attached a bomb to an electric scooter and exploded it as Kirillov and his aide walked towards their official car. Ukraine had accused Kirillov of staging several chemical attacks against Kyiv forces during the war. Also read: Tucker Carlson claims Biden administration blocking his attempts to interview Zelensky News agency Reuters reported that Kirillov’s death may have prompted Russian authorities to review security protocols for the army's top brass. Other high profile killings Russia has accused Ukraine of carrying out several targeted assassinations since the start of Moscow's full-scale war on Ukraine in February 2022. Amongst the major high-profile cases are the 2022 killing of Darya Dugina, the daughter of Russian nationalist ideologue Alexander Dugin; and the 2023 café bombing that led to the death of a Russian pro-war blogger named Vladlen Tatarsky. Last year, a shooting incident targeted a Russian submarine commander accused of war crimes by Kyiv. Also read: Secret UK military lab 'blew up', 'poisoned' thousands of animals Following the death of Kirillov earlier this year, the Ukraine envoy of US President-elect Donald Trump condemned the move and said such killings were "not really smart" and going "a little bit too far." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

Ukraine war: Russia claims it foiled Kyiv plot to kill top officer using ‘speaker bomb’

North Korean troops deployed in Russia&rsquo;s Kursk region, fighting Ukraine have been facing severe losses since the day they began to help Russian forces in its war with Ukraine. US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby stressed that the troops sent by North Korea, are killing themselves rather than risking capture.&nbsp;
Emphasising that the North Korean generals see their soldiers as "expendable", Kirby said that more than 1,000 North Korean soldiers had been killed or wounded in the last week.&nbsp;
However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky estimated that almost 3,000 Pyongyang soldiers have been killed or injured so far.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-soldier-captured-by-ukraine-dies-from-injuries-confirms-south-koreas-spy-agency-8570790">North Korean soldier captured by Ukraine dies from injuries, claims South Korea's spy agency</a>
A &ldquo;human wave&rdquo; of North Korean soldiers fighting on Russia's side in the Ukraine war are being sent to their deaths in &ldquo;hopeless&rdquo; attacks by generals who saw them as "expendable", he said.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We now assess that North Korean forces are conducting massed dismounted assaults against Ukrainian positions in Kursk, and these human wave tactics that we&rsquo;re seeing haven&rsquo;t really been all that effective,&rdquo; the spokesperson added.&nbsp;
"We also have reports of North Korean soldiers taking their own lives rather than surrendering to Ukrainian forces," he said, adding that the soldiers are taking such actions likely out of fear of reprisal against their families in North Korea in case they are captured.&nbsp;
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Kirby continues that these North Korean soldiers appear to be "highly indoctrinated", pushing attacks even when it is clear that those attacks are "futile".&nbsp;
<h2>'Several North Korean soldiers dead'</h2>
Menawhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday said that several North Korean soldiers who were "seriously wounded" died from their injuries after being captured by Ukrainian forces.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Our soldiers managed to take them prisoner. But they were very seriously wounded and could not be resuscitated,&rdquo; he said.&nbsp;
Zelensky has also accused Russia of sending North Korean troops to the battlefield with "minimal protection".&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-says-over-3000-north-koreans-killed-or-wounded-in-kursk-region-786276" rel="dofollow"> Ukraine's Zelensky says over 3,000 North Koreans killed or wounded in Kursk region</a>
&ldquo;They have a lot of losses. A lot. And we see that the Russian military and North Korean supervisors are not interested in the survival of these Koreans at all,&rdquo; he said.
On Friday, South Korea's spy agency claimed that one wounded North Korean soldier, captured by Ukraine, died from his injuries.
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Kirby said that these North Korean soldiers appear to be "highly indoctrinated", pushing attacks even when it is clear that those attacks are "futile". 

North Korean troops deployed in Russia’s Kursk region, fighting Ukraine have been facing severe losses since the day they began to help Russian forces in its war with Ukraine. US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby stressed that the troops sent by North Korea, are killing themselves rather than risking capture. Emphasising that the North Korean generals see their soldiers as "expendable", Kirby said that more than 1,000 North Korean soldiers had been killed or wounded in the last week. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky estimated that almost 3,000 Pyongyang soldiers have been killed or injured so far. Also read: North Korean soldier captured by Ukraine dies from injuries, claims South Korea's spy agency A “human wave” of North Korean soldiers fighting on Russia's side in the Ukraine war are being sent to their deaths in “hopeless” attacks by generals who saw them as "expendable", he said. “We now assess that North Korean forces are conducting massed dismounted assaults against Ukrainian positions in Kursk, and these human wave tactics that we’re seeing haven’t really been all that effective,” the spokesperson added. "We also have reports of North Korean soldiers taking their own lives rather than surrendering to Ukrainian forces," he said, adding that the soldiers are taking such actions likely out of fear of reprisal against their families in North Korea in case they are captured. Also read: Russia sentences singer to 5.5 years in jail for criticising Ukraine offensive Kirby continues that these North Korean soldiers appear to be "highly indoctrinated", pushing attacks even when it is clear that those attacks are "futile". 'Several North Korean soldiers dead' Menawhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday said that several North Korean soldiers who were "seriously wounded" died from their injuries after being captured by Ukrainian forces. “Our soldiers managed to take them prisoner. But they were very seriously wounded and could not be resuscitated,” he said. Zelensky has also accused Russia of sending North Korean troops to the battlefield with "minimal protection". Also read: Ukraine's Zelensky says over 3,000 North Koreans killed or wounded in Kursk region “They have a lot of losses. A lot. And we see that the Russian military and North Korean supervisors are not interested in the survival of these Koreans at all,” he said. On Friday, South Korea's spy agency claimed that one wounded North Korean soldier, captured by Ukraine, died from his injuries. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

N Korean troops killing themselves rather than surrendering to Ukraine, claims US

Russia’s new intermediate-range ballistic missile, the Oreshnik, recently fired at Ukraine, was developed using advanced manufacturing equipment from Western companies, despite sanctions.

Russia-Ukraine War: Moscow Uses Foreign Technology Missile Despite Sanctions

Syria’s new authorities have arrested a military justice official who under ousted president Bashar Assad issued death sentences for detainees in the notorious Saydnaya prison, a war monitor said Thursday. Watch in for more details!

Syria: Protests Erupt Over Shrine Desecration Amid HTS Violence | World News | WION

Vladimir Putin stated that Russia is "striving" to end the conflict in Ukraine. The Russian President mentioned that the government is ready to deploy intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missiles or other more powerful intermediate-range weapons if necessary.

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin open to peace talks with Ukraine in Slovakia

An injured North Korean soldier captured by Ukrainian forces died from injuries, South Korea's spy agency said in a statement on Friday (Dec 27).&nbsp;
Since North Korea deployed its troops to support Russia in its war with Ukraine, the soldier is believed to be the first Pyongyang prisoner of war captured by Kyiv.&nbsp;
South Korea's National Intelligence Service said that it had confirmed through an "allied intelligence agency" that the soldier had died from "serious injuries", state media Yonhap News Agency reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-soldier-fighting-for-russia-captured-by-ukrainian-forces-report-8569397">Injured North Korean soldier fighting for Russia captured by Ukrainian forces: Report</a>
Earlier in the day, South Korea's spy agency confirmed Ukrainian reports that an injured North Korean soldier had been captured by Kyiv forces.&nbsp;
"Through real-time information sharing with an allied country's intelligence agency, it has been confirmed that one injured North Korean soldier has been captured," South Korea's National Intelligence Service said in a statement.
Yonhap News Agency reported that a photograph of the soldier, looking gaunt and appearing to have been injured, has been making rounds on the Telegram messaging app.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/madness-must-be-stopped-zelensky-claims-russian-troops-burning-faces-of-north-korean-soldiers-killed-in-war-784772" rel="dofollow">'Madness must be stopped', Zelensky claims Russian troops burning faces of North Korean soldiers killed in war</a>
North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to help Russian forces in its war with Ukraine, including in the border regions.&nbsp;
Around 11,000 North Korean soldiers have been deployed after their leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a mutual defence pact, committing each other to come to aid if attacked.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-says-over-3000-north-koreans-killed-or-wounded-in-kursk-region-786276">Ukraine's Zelensky says over 3,000 North Koreans killed or wounded in Kursk region</a>
Earlier on Thursday, Ukraine&rsquo;s military intelligence agency, also known as the GUR, said that the North Korean troops were suffering heavy losses in the fighting in Kursk.&nbsp;
Moreover, this week, Ukrainian President Zelensky claimed that more than 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded in the Kursk region.&nbsp;
According to Ukrainian and South Korean intelligence services, many of the troops deployed to Russia are some of Pyongyang's best, who are drawn from the 11th Corps.&nbsp;
This unit is specifically trained in infiltration, infrastructure sabotage, and assassinations.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos
(With inputs from agencies)

South Korea's National Intelligence Service said that it had confirmed through an "allied intelligence agency" that the soldier had died from "serious injuries".

An injured North Korean soldier captured by Ukrainian forces died from injuries, South Korea's spy agency said in a statement on Friday (Dec 27). Since North Korea deployed its troops to support Russia in its war with Ukraine, the soldier is believed to be the first Pyongyang prisoner of war captured by Kyiv. South Korea's National Intelligence Service said that it had confirmed through an "allied intelligence agency" that the soldier had died from "serious injuries", state media Yonhap News Agency reported. Also read: Injured North Korean soldier fighting for Russia captured by Ukrainian forces: Report Earlier in the day, South Korea's spy agency confirmed Ukrainian reports that an injured North Korean soldier had been captured by Kyiv forces. "Through real-time information sharing with an allied country's intelligence agency, it has been confirmed that one injured North Korean soldier has been captured," South Korea's National Intelligence Service said in a statement. Yonhap News Agency reported that a photograph of the soldier, looking gaunt and appearing to have been injured, has been making rounds on the Telegram messaging app. Also read: 'Madness must be stopped', Zelensky claims Russian troops burning faces of North Korean soldiers killed in war North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to help Russian forces in its war with Ukraine, including in the border regions. Around 11,000 North Korean soldiers have been deployed after their leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a mutual defence pact, committing each other to come to aid if attacked. Also read: Ukraine's Zelensky says over 3,000 North Koreans killed or wounded in Kursk region Earlier on Thursday, Ukraine’s military intelligence agency, also known as the GUR, said that the North Korean troops were suffering heavy losses in the fighting in Kursk. Moreover, this week, Ukrainian President Zelensky claimed that more than 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded in the Kursk region. According to Ukrainian and South Korean intelligence services, many of the troops deployed to Russia are some of Pyongyang's best, who are drawn from the 11th Corps. This unit is specifically trained in infiltration, infrastructure sabotage, and assassinations. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

North Korean soldier captured by Ukraine dies from injuries, claims South Korea's spy agency

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