After Russia's chief of nuclear, biological, and chemical protection troops, Lieutenant General Igor Kirilov, was killed in an electric scooter blast in Moscow, investigators have said that Russia has detained suspects related to the killing. A source in Ukraine's security service claimed that the killing of the top commander, Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Council, and former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev, has stated that Ukraine must face imminent revenge for the killing. Watch in for more details!



Russia-Ukraine War: Top Russian General killed In Bomb Blast, Russia Vows Revenge

NATO has taken over the coordination of military aid to Ukraine from the U.S. And is set to play a more direct role in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine War. Is this a sign of U.S. Distancing itself from Ukraine?

Russia-Ukraine War: Trump Ready To Ditch Zelensky

Moscow, Russia
Russian authorities, on Wednesday (Dec 18), detained a Uzbek citizen for allegedly setting up a bomb that killed Russian general Igor Kirillov and one of his close aides. Kirillov, who was the head of Russia’s radiological, biological and chemical protection forces, was killed by a bomb that was planted inside an electric scooter outside his apartment building. Russian state media Tass reported that the bomb contained the equivalent of 300g of high explosive.
He was accused by Kyiv of using banned chemical weapons on Ukrainian soil. Just a day prior to his death, Ukrainian prosecutors had sentenced Kirillov in absentia for alleged war crimes. The official complaint read that Kirillov was "using dangerous chemicals mainly in the hottest areas of combat, where they [Russia] are trying to hide the use of chemical agents under dense artillery fire".
The Russian Investigative Committee currently probing the death of the top general said the suspect was allegedly hired by Ukraine’s special services and was sent to Russia to carry out the assassination. “The detainee received a homemade explosive device and placed it on an electric scooter which he parked at the entrance to the residential building where Igor Kirillov lived,” said the committee on its Telegram channel.
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwji1OvU_rCKAxVDsFYBHcBkCVkQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-sending-ps35-million-aid-to-help-ukrainians-survive-winter-784758" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-sending-ps35-million-aid-to-help-ukrainians-survive-winter-784758&amp;ved=2ahUKEwji1OvU_rCKAxVDsFYBHcBkCVkQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">UK sending £35 million aid to help Ukrainians survive winter</a>
It added that the suspect took a car and fitted it with a surveillance camera to monitor Kirillov’s movements. “The footage from this camera was broadcast online to the organizers of the terrorist attack in the city of Dnipro. After a video signal was received about the soldiers leaving the entrance, the explosive device was remotely activated by them,” the committee said, adding that “other persons involved in organizing this crime are being identified.”
Watch: Trump Calls Assad A 'Butcher' As Syrian Govt Urges Russia To Reconsider Its Presence
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According to reports, the Uzbek citizen, whose identity has not been revealed yet, was given a monetary remuneration of $100,000 for the assassination along with residence in an unspecified European nation. Russia has vowed to avenge Kirillov’s death “without a doubt and without mercy.”
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

The Russian Investigative Committee currently probing the death of the top general said the suspect was allegedly hired by Ukraine’s special services and was sent to Russia to carry out the assassination.



Moscow, Russia Russian authorities, on Wednesday (Dec 18), detained a Uzbek citizen for allegedly setting up a bomb that killed Russian general Igor Kirillov and one of his close aides. Kirillov, who was the head of Russia’s radiological, biological and chemical protection forces, was killed by a bomb that was planted inside an electric scooter outside his apartment building. Russian state media Tass reported that the bomb contained the equivalent of 300g of high explosive. He was accused by Kyiv of using banned chemical weapons on Ukrainian soil. Just a day prior to his death, Ukrainian prosecutors had sentenced Kirillov in absentia for alleged war crimes. The official complaint read that Kirillov was "using dangerous chemicals mainly in the hottest areas of combat, where they [Russia] are trying to hide the use of chemical agents under dense artillery fire". The Russian Investigative Committee currently probing the death of the top general said the suspect was allegedly hired by Ukraine’s special services and was sent to Russia to carry out the assassination. “The detainee received a homemade explosive device and placed it on an electric scooter which he parked at the entrance to the residential building where Igor Kirillov lived,” said the committee on its Telegram channel. Also read: UK sending £35 million aid to help Ukrainians survive winter It added that the suspect took a car and fitted it with a surveillance camera to monitor Kirillov’s movements. “The footage from this camera was broadcast online to the organizers of the terrorist attack in the city of Dnipro. After a video signal was received about the soldiers leaving the entrance, the explosive device was remotely activated by them,” the committee said, adding that “other persons involved in organizing this crime are being identified.” Watch: Trump Calls Assad A 'Butcher' As Syrian Govt Urges Russia To Reconsider Its Presence × According to reports, the Uzbek citizen, whose identity has not been revealed yet, was given a monetary remuneration of $100,000 for the assassination along with residence in an unspecified European nation. Russia has vowed to avenge Kirillov’s death “without a doubt and without mercy.” 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

Russia detains Uzbek citizen over killing of general Kirillov, claims Kyiv gave him $100k

The United States said Tuesday it was not involved in the killing of a senior Russian army officer in an operation claimed by Ukraine." Watch this report for more details! 

Top Russian General killed in bomb blast, Moscow Vows Revenge on Ukraine

The United States said Tuesday it was not involved in the killing of a senior Russian army officer in an operation claimed by Ukraine." Watch this report for more details!

US: Not Involved in Killing of Russia's Chemical Weapons Chief

After Russia's chief of nuclear, biological, and chemical protection troops, Lieutenant General Igor Kirilov, was killed in an electric scooter blast in Moscow, investigators have said that Russia has detained suspects related to the killing. A source in Ukraine's security service claimed that the killing of the top commander, Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Council, and former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev, has stated that Ukraine must face imminent revenge for the killing. Watch in for more details!

A high-ranking Russian general has been killed in a bombing in Moscow, with Ukraine claiming responsibility. This marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the two nations.

Russia-Ukraine War: Top Russian General Killed In Moscow Bombing Claimed By Ukraine

A high-ranking Russian general has been killed in a bombing in Moscow, with Ukraine claiming responsibility. This marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the two nations.



Russian authorities, on Wednesday (Dec 18), detained a Uzbek citizen&nbsp;for allegedly setting up a bomb that killed Russian general Igor Kirillov and one of his close aides. Kirillov, who was the head of Russia’s radiological, biological and chemical protection forces, was killed by a bomb that was planted inside an electric scooter outside his apartment building. Russian state media Tass reported that the bomb contained the equivalent of 300g of high explosive.

He was accused by Kyiv of using banned chemical weapons on Ukrainian soil. Just a day prior to his death, Ukrainian prosecutors had sentenced Kirillov in absentia for alleged war crimes. The official complaint read that Kirillov was "using dangerous chemicals mainly in the hottest areas of combat, where they [Russia] are trying to hide the use of chemical agents under dense artillery fire".

The Russian Investigative Committee currently probing the death of the top general said the suspect was allegedly hired by Ukraine’s special services and was sent to Russia to carry out the assassination. “The detainee received a homemade explosive device and placed it on an electric scooter which he parked at the entrance to the residential building where Igor Kirillov lived,” said the committee on its Telegram channel.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwji1OvU_rCKAxVDsFYBHcBkCVkQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-sending-ps35-million-aid-to-help-ukrainians-survive-winter-784758" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-sending-ps35-million-aid-to-help-ukrainians-survive-winter-784758&amp;ved=2ahUKEwji1OvU_rCKAxVDsFYBHcBkCVkQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">UK sending £35 million aid to help Ukrainians survive winter</a>

It added that the suspect took a car and fitted it with a surveillance camera to monitor Kirillov’s movements. “The footage from this camera was broadcast online to the organizers of the terrorist attack in the city of Dnipro. After a video signal was received about the soldiers leaving the entrance, the explosive device was remotely activated by them,” the committee said, adding that “other persons involved in organizing this crime are being identified.”

Watch:&nbsp;Trump Calls Assad A 'Butcher' As Syrian Govt Urges Russia To Reconsider Its Presence

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According to reports, the Uzbek citizen, whose identity has not been revealed yet, was given a monetary remuneration of $100,000 for the assassination along with residence in an unspecified European nation. Russia has vowed to avenge Kirillov’s death “without a doubt and without mercy.”

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;

Russian authorities, on Wednesday (Dec 18), detained a Uzbek citizen for allegedly setting up a bomb that killed Russian general Igor Kirillov and one of his close aides.

Russian authorities, on Wednesday (Dec 18), detained a Uzbek citizen for allegedly setting up a bomb that killed Russian general Igor Kirillov and one of his close aides. Kirillov, who was the head of Russia’s radiological, biological and chemical protection forces, was killed by a bomb that was planted inside an electric scooter outside his apartment building. Russian state media Tass reported that the bomb contained the equivalent of 300g of high explosive. He was accused by Kyiv of using banned chemical weapons on Ukrainian soil. Just a day prior to his death, Ukrainian prosecutors had sentenced Kirillov in absentia for alleged war crimes. The official complaint read that Kirillov was "using dangerous chemicals mainly in the hottest areas of combat, where they [Russia] are trying to hide the use of chemical agents under dense artillery fire". The Russian Investigative Committee currently probing the death of the top general said the suspect was allegedly hired by Ukraine’s special services and was sent to Russia to carry out the assassination. “The detainee received a homemade explosive device and placed it on an electric scooter which he parked at the entrance to the residential building where Igor Kirillov lived,” said the committee on its Telegram channel. Also read: UK sending £35 million aid to help Ukrainians survive winter It added that the suspect took a car and fitted it with a surveillance camera to monitor Kirillov’s movements. “The footage from this camera was broadcast online to the organizers of the terrorist attack in the city of Dnipro. After a video signal was received about the soldiers leaving the entrance, the explosive device was remotely activated by them,” the committee said, adding that “other persons involved in organizing this crime are being identified.” Watch: Trump Calls Assad A 'Butcher' As Syrian Govt Urges Russia To Reconsider Its Presence × According to reports, the Uzbek citizen, whose identity has not been revealed yet, was given a monetary remuneration of $100,000 for the assassination along with residence in an unspecified European nation. Russia has vowed to avenge Kirillov’s death “without a doubt and without mercy.” 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

#Gravitas | A top Russian general has been assassinated in Moscow and Ukraine has claimed responsibility. Meanwhile, Russia has now threatened to prepare for a war with NATO. And that’s not all. Russia has also developed the capacity to cut Ukraine's link with its crucial Starlink satellites. Watch the video to know more!

Ukraine Kills Russian General, Moscow Threatens War With NATO

New Delhi 
In his upcoming biography, Pop Francis claimed that he escaped two attempts on his life during his visit to Iran in 2021. The book titled "Hope" will be released next month. 
Russian general Igor Kirillov was killed on Tuesday (Dec 17). He was assassinated in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow. He was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops. 
In news from other parts of the world, British-Pakistani girl Sara Sharif's father and her stepmother have been sentenced to life for murdering the 10-year-old. In 2023, her body was discovered in Surrey after she was physically assaulted by her father, stepmother, and uncle. 
Click on the links to read more 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-says-he-escaped-two-attempts-on-his-life-during-2021-iraq-visit-784750https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-says-he-escaped-two-attempts-on-his-life-during-2021-iraq-visit-784750">Pope Francis says he escaped two attempts on his life during 2021 Iraq visit</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/17/471710-untitled-2.png"/>
Pope Francis has said that he escaped two attempts on his life during his historic visit to Iraq in 2021. He made this claim in his upcoming autobiography, which will be released next month.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-was-igor-kirillov-russias-chemical-weapons-chief-and-a-mouthpiece-for-exposing-western-crimes-784708">Who was Igor Kirillov? Russia's chemical weapons chief</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/17/471683-untitled-design-8.jpg"/>
Russian general Igor Kirillov, who was killed in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow, was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops. Lieutenant General Kirillov was assassinated by Ukraine's SBU intelligence service on Tuesday (Dec 17), according to a report by Reuters.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sara-sharif-murder-sadist-father-and-stepmother-imprisoned-for-life-for-brutally-killing-her-784733">Sara Sharif murder: 'Sadist' father and stepmother imprisoned for life</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/17/471702-untitled-design-9.jpg"/>
British-Pakistani girl Sara Sharif's father, Urfan Sharif, and stepmother Beinash Batool have been jailed for life for murdering their 10-year-old daughter.  
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-changed-the-constitution-77-times-in-55-years-says-amit-shah-in-parliament-784738">Amit Shah in Parliament: Congress changed Constitution 77 times in 55 years</a>
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Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday during a debate marking 75 years since the adoption of the Constitution and used the occasion to rip into the Congress party and its leadership over the imposition of emergency and for making amendments in the statute for 'personal' gains.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-says-resistance-not-over-after-assad-ouster-784754">Iran's Khamenei says 'resistance' not over after Assad ouster</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/17/471715-00036pz8ax.jpg"/>
Iran's supreme leader said Tuesday that Israel and the United States were "completely wrong" to imagine the Tehran-backed axis of resistance had collapsed with the ouster of Syria's longtime strongman.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-sending-ps35-million-aid-to-help-ukrainians-survive-winter-784758">UK sending £35 million aid to help Ukrainians survive winter</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/17/471718-wion-news-latest-6.png"/>
The British government Tuesday announced £35 million ($44 million) in aid to repair Ukraine's energy grid battered by Russian strikes and help Ukrainians confront freezing winter weather.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-executes-ex-official-who-was-convicted-in-nations-largest-ever-corruption-case-784698">China executes ex-official convicted in nation's largest-ever corruption case</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/17/471677-untitled.png"/>
China on Tuesday (Dec 17) executed a former official who was convicted in the country's largest-ever corruption case. According to a report by the state-run Xinhua news agency, the death sentence was awarded to Li Jianping, a former official in the north Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-unaware-of-everything-happening-says-hannah-kobayashi-after-her-return-784712">Missing Hawaii woman case: Was unaware of media frenzy, says Hannah Kobayashi after her return</a>
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Hannah Kobayashi, the missing Hawaii woman found recently, said she was "unaware of everything" that happened in the media and her family. After returning to the United States from Mexico, Hannah said in a statement handed on Tuesday (Dec 17) by her aunt that she is "still processing it all" and urged people to respect her family during “this challenging time". 
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<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/17/471679-bgt-gabba-test-australia-vs-india-weather-report-of-final-day-in-brisbane.jpg"/>
Weather conditions and 98 overs on the final day will decide the fate of the third BGT Test between Australia and India at the Gabba. With rain playing spoilsport for the fourth straight day in Brisbane, overcast conditions are predicted for the fifth day too. 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pushpa-2-stampede-case-telangana-police-likely-to-challenge-allu-arjuns-bail-784642">Pushpa 2 stampede case: Telangana police likely to challenge Allu Arjun’s bail</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/04/22/426760-untitled-design-2024-04-22t212116218.jpg"/>
Actor Allu Arjun’s bail might get cut short soon as Telangana police are preparing to challenge it and take the matter to the Supreme Court.

Here are the top 10 news stories from across the world.



New Delhi In his upcoming biography, Pop Francis claimed that he escaped two attempts on his life during his visit to Iran in 2021. The book titled "Hope" will be released next month. Russian general Igor Kirillov was killed on Tuesday (Dec 17). He was assassinated in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow. He was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops. In news from other parts of the world, British-Pakistani girl Sara Sharif's father and her stepmother have been sentenced to life for murdering the 10-year-old. In 2023, her body was discovered in Surrey after she was physically assaulted by her father, stepmother, and uncle. Click on the links to read more Pope Francis says he escaped two attempts on his life during 2021 Iraq visit Pope Francis has said that he escaped two attempts on his life during his historic visit to Iraq in 2021. He made this claim in his upcoming autobiography, which will be released next month. Who was Igor Kirillov? Russia's chemical weapons chief Russian general Igor Kirillov, who was killed in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow, was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops. Lieutenant General Kirillov was assassinated by Ukraine's SBU intelligence service on Tuesday (Dec 17), according to a report by Reuters. Sara Sharif murder: 'Sadist' father and stepmother imprisoned for life British-Pakistani girl Sara Sharif's father, Urfan Sharif, and stepmother Beinash Batool have been jailed for life for murdering their 10-year-old daughter. Amit Shah in Parliament: Congress changed Constitution 77 times in 55 years Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday during a debate marking 75 years since the adoption of the Constitution and used the occasion to rip into the Congress party and its leadership over the imposition of emergency and for making amendments in the statute for 'personal' gains. Iran's Khamenei says 'resistance' not over after Assad ouster Iran's supreme leader said Tuesday that Israel and the United States were "completely wrong" to imagine the Tehran-backed axis of resistance had collapsed with the ouster of Syria's longtime strongman. UK sending £35 million aid to help Ukrainians survive winter The British government Tuesday announced £35 million ($44 million) in aid to repair Ukraine's energy grid battered by Russian strikes and help Ukrainians confront freezing winter weather. China executes ex-official convicted in nation's largest-ever corruption case China on Tuesday (Dec 17) executed a former official who was convicted in the country's largest-ever corruption case. According to a report by the state-run Xinhua news agency, the death sentence was awarded to Li Jianping, a former official in the north Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. Missing Hawaii woman case: Was unaware of media frenzy, says Hannah Kobayashi after her return Hannah Kobayashi, the missing Hawaii woman found recently, said she was "unaware of everything" that happened in the media and her family. After returning to the United States from Mexico, Hannah said in a statement handed on Tuesday (Dec 17) by her aunt that she is "still processing it all" and urged people to respect her family during “this challenging time". BGT, Gabba Test, Australia vs India: Weather report of final day in Brisbane Weather conditions and 98 overs on the final day will decide the fate of the third BGT Test between Australia and India at the Gabba. With rain playing spoilsport for the fourth straight day in Brisbane, overcast conditions are predicted for the fifth day too. Pushpa 2 stampede case: Telangana police likely to challenge Allu Arjun’s bail Actor Allu Arjun’s bail might get cut short soon as Telangana police are preparing to challenge it and take the matter to the Supreme Court.

Top 10 world news: Pope almost assassinated in 2021; Ukraine killed Russian general, and more

Moscow, Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 17) claimed that Russian troops have burnt the faces of deceased North Korean soldiers to conceal their identity and hide their presence. 
Zelensky shared a 31-second video, showing a group of people burning what appears to be a corpse on a snow-covered slope. 
"Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse," Zelensky said in a post on X. 
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Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse.
Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions, but also tries to conceal losses of these people.
They tried to hide the presence of… <a href="https://t.co/KYyGF1rxP8">pic.twitter.com/KYyGF1rxP8</a>
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1868777841917059313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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He further said that Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions but also "tries to conceal losses of these people".
The Ukrainian president stressed that the Russians attempted to erase any video evidence of their presence. 
"Now, after first combats with our warriors, Russians are trying…to literally burn the faces of North Korean soldiers killed in battle," he said, adding, "This is a demonstration of disrespect, which is currently prevalent in Russia, a disrespect to everything human."
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-claims-killing-or-injuring-30-north-korean-soldiers-in-kursk-region-784464">Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region</a>
Zelensky said that there is not a single reason for North Koreans to fight and die for Putin. 
"This madness must be stopped—stopped by a reliable and durable peace, as well as Russia’s accountability for this cynical war," he emphasised. 
Earlier on Monday, Zelensky claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This was the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang had sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine. 
Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Trump To Talk To Zelensky, Putin To End War
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Prior to that, he said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them."
Washington and Seoul have also accused Pyongyang of sending over 10,000 troops to support Moscow following the signing of a significant defence agreement between Russia and North Korea earlier this year.
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.
(With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky shared a 31-second video, showing a group of people burning what appears to be a corpse on a snow-covered slope. 



Moscow, Russia Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 17) claimed that Russian troops have burnt the faces of deceased North Korean soldiers to conceal their identity and hide their presence. Zelensky shared a 31-second video, showing a group of people burning what appears to be a corpse on a snow-covered slope. "Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse," Zelensky said in a post on X. Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse. Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions, but also tries to conceal losses of these people. They tried to hide the presence of… pic.twitter.com/KYyGF1rxP8 — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) December 16, 2024 × He further said that Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions but also "tries to conceal losses of these people". The Ukrainian president stressed that the Russians attempted to erase any video evidence of their presence. "Now, after first combats with our warriors, Russians are trying…to literally burn the faces of North Korean soldiers killed in battle," he said, adding, "This is a demonstration of disrespect, which is currently prevalent in Russia, a disrespect to everything human." Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region Zelensky said that there is not a single reason for North Koreans to fight and die for Putin. "This madness must be stopped—stopped by a reliable and durable peace, as well as Russia’s accountability for this cynical war," he emphasised. Earlier on Monday, Zelensky claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This was the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang had sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Trump To Talk To Zelensky, Putin To End War × Prior to that, he said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them." Washington and Seoul have also accused Pyongyang of sending over 10,000 troops to support Moscow following the signing of a significant defence agreement between Russia and North Korea earlier this year. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

'Madness must be stopped', Zelensky claims Russian troops burning faces of North Korean soldiers killed in war

London 
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The British government Tuesday announced £35 million ($44 million) in aid to repair Ukraine's energy grid battered by Russian strikes and help Ukrainians confront freezing winter weather.
Some £20 million will be allocated to try to restore the power network and protect Ukrainian infrastructure, a UK government statement said.
A further £15 million will be made available to "provide lifesaving humanitarian support to the most in need as temperatures in Ukraine plummet".
Russia launched one of its largest missile attacks ever in the early hours of Friday, once again targeting war-torn Ukraine's energy grid.
Watch | Polio Vaccination Team Attacked In Pakistan, At least One Policeman Killed
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The attack "severely damaged" some Ukrainian power plants, the Ukrainian DTEK power provider said and knocked out electricity to thousands of people.
"As Putin's oil revenues continue to fuel the fires of his illegal war, Ukrainian families are enduring cold, dark nights, often without heating, light or electricity, targeted by Russia's relentless missile attacks," said British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
"But these systematic attacks on Ukraine's infrastructure will not grind Ukraine down. It will only deepen our resolve and support," he added.
Russia has conducted at least 11 large-scale strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure since the beginning of the year, Kyiv says, with Ukrainians now enduring their third winter at war.
The UK government also sanctioned energy companies 2Rivers DMCC and 2Rivers PTE LTD, which are "key lynchpins in enabling the trading" of Russian oil, the government said.
Starmer further announced additional crackdowns on Moscow's so-called "shadow fleet" of oil tankers which bypass Western sanctions.
The latest round of sanctions targets 20 ships. 
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europes-destruction-contact-with-aliens-heres-what-baba-vanga-predicted-for-2025-784744">Europe's destruction, contact with aliens: Here's what Baba Vanga predicted for 2025</a>
The UK government said it has now sanctioned more than 100 ships for transporting Russian energy, leaving tankers "idling uselessly outside ports" and "costing Putin and his war efforts millions in wasted funds".
EU countries last week agreed to blacklist around 50 more oil tankers in their 15th package of sanctions since Moscow's 2022 full-scale invasion.
The UK has also agreed to work with Denmark, Sweden, Poland, Finland, and Estonia to request proof of insurance from suspected shadow vessels in the Baltic and North Sea.
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.

Russia launched one of its largest missile attacks ever in the early hours of Friday, once again targeting war-torn Ukraine's energy grid.



London The British government Tuesday announced £35 million ($44 million) in aid to repair Ukraine's energy grid battered by Russian strikes and help Ukrainians confront freezing winter weather. Some £20 million will be allocated to try to restore the power network and protect Ukrainian infrastructure, a UK government statement said. A further £15 million will be made available to "provide lifesaving humanitarian support to the most in need as temperatures in Ukraine plummet". Russia launched one of its largest missile attacks ever in the early hours of Friday, once again targeting war-torn Ukraine's energy grid. Watch | Polio Vaccination Team Attacked In Pakistan, At least One Policeman Killed The attack "severely damaged" some Ukrainian power plants, the Ukrainian DTEK power provider said and knocked out electricity to thousands of people. "As Putin's oil revenues continue to fuel the fires of his illegal war, Ukrainian families are enduring cold, dark nights, often without heating, light or electricity, targeted by Russia's relentless missile attacks," said British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. "But these systematic attacks on Ukraine's infrastructure will not grind Ukraine down. It will only deepen our resolve and support," he added. Russia has conducted at least 11 large-scale strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure since the beginning of the year, Kyiv says, with Ukrainians now enduring their third winter at war. The UK government also sanctioned energy companies 2Rivers DMCC and 2Rivers PTE LTD, which are "key lynchpins in enabling the trading" of Russian oil, the government said. Starmer further announced additional crackdowns on Moscow's so-called "shadow fleet" of oil tankers which bypass Western sanctions. The latest round of sanctions targets 20 ships. Also read | Europe's destruction, contact with aliens: Here's what Baba Vanga predicted for 2025 The UK government said it has now sanctioned more than 100 ships for transporting Russian energy, leaving tankers "idling uselessly outside ports" and "costing Putin and his war efforts millions in wasted funds". EU countries last week agreed to blacklist around 50 more oil tankers in their 15th package of sanctions since Moscow's 2022 full-scale invasion. The UK has also agreed to work with Denmark, Sweden, Poland, Finland, and Estonia to request proof of insurance from suspected shadow vessels in the Baltic and North Sea. 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.

UK sending £35 million aid to help Ukrainians survive winter

A senior Russian general has been killed by a bomb hidden in a scooter outside his apartment building in Moscow...

The attack comes a day after Ukraine’s security service leveled criminal charges against him. Watch in for more details!

What's Next For Russia-Ukraine War?

Moscow, Russia
Russian diplomat Igor Kirillov, who was killed in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow, was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops. 
Lieutenant General Kirillov was assassinated by Ukraine's SBU intelligence service on Tuesday (Dec 17), according to a report by Reuters. 
Kirillov was killed outside an apartment building along with his assistant when a bomb hidden in an electric scooter went off, said Russia's Investigative Committee, which probes serious crimes. According to the report, a bomb was hidden inside an e-scooter which was parked near the apartment building.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/igor-kirillov-the-russian-general-in-charge-of-nuclear-protection-forces-killed-in-explosion-in-moscow-784646">Also read: 'Ukraine kills' Russian General Igor Kirillov who was in charge of nation's nuclear protection forces</a>
Later, Ukraine claimed responsibility for his killing and said that a Ukrainian intelligence agency had been behind the hit.
<h2>Who was Igor Kirillov?</h2>
In Russia, Kirillov was seen as a tireless patriot, fighting for the truth and exposing Western "crimes". He was also accused by the West of overseeing the use of chemical weapons in their war with Ukraine. 
He got popular for his offbeat briefings at the Russian defence ministry, which also provoked the UK Foreign Office to label him as a "significant mouthpiece for Kremlin disinformation". 
He was much more than a mouthpiece, as he was heading Russia's Timoshenko Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection Academy, before going on to lead the Russian army's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection Troops in 2017.
WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Head Of Russia’s Nuclear Defence Forces Killed In Moscow Blast
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The troops were responsible for identifying hazards and protecting units from contamination but also "causing loss to the enemy by using flame-incendiary means". 
The UK Foreign Office said that the force Kirillov commanded had deployed "barbaric chemical weapons in Ukraine", stressing that it highlighted what according to them was the widespread use of riot control agents and "multiple reports of the use of the toxic choking agent chloropicrin".
Kirillov got his notoriety since the beginning of Russia's war with Ukraine as he put forward certain claims directed towards both Ukraine and the West. However, these claims were not based on any facts. 
One of his outrageous claims was that the US had been building biological weapons laboratories in Ukraine.
Last month, he also claimed that "one of the priority aims" of Ukraine's counter-offensive into Russia's Kursk border region was to seize the Kursk nuclear power plant. 
(With inputs from agencies)

In Russia, Kirillov was seen as a tireless patriot, fighting for the truth and exposing Western "crimes". He was also accused by the West of overseeing the use of chemical weapons in their war with Ukraine. 



Moscow, Russia Russian diplomat Igor Kirillov, who was killed in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow, was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops. Lieutenant General Kirillov was assassinated by Ukraine's SBU intelligence service on Tuesday (Dec 17), according to a report by Reuters. Kirillov was killed outside an apartment building along with his assistant when a bomb hidden in an electric scooter went off, said Russia's Investigative Committee, which probes serious crimes. According to the report, a bomb was hidden inside an e-scooter which was parked near the apartment building. Also read: 'Ukraine kills' Russian General Igor Kirillov who was in charge of nation's nuclear protection forces Later, Ukraine claimed responsibility for his killing and said that a Ukrainian intelligence agency had been behind the hit. Who was Igor Kirillov? In Russia, Kirillov was seen as a tireless patriot, fighting for the truth and exposing Western "crimes". He was also accused by the West of overseeing the use of chemical weapons in their war with Ukraine. He got popular for his offbeat briefings at the Russian defence ministry, which also provoked the UK Foreign Office to label him as a "significant mouthpiece for Kremlin disinformation". He was much more than a mouthpiece, as he was heading Russia's Timoshenko Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection Academy, before going on to lead the Russian army's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection Troops in 2017. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Head Of Russia’s Nuclear Defence Forces Killed In Moscow Blast × The troops were responsible for identifying hazards and protecting units from contamination but also "causing loss to the enemy by using flame-incendiary means". The UK Foreign Office said that the force Kirillov commanded had deployed "barbaric chemical weapons in Ukraine", stressing that it highlighted what according to them was the widespread use of riot control agents and "multiple reports of the use of the toxic choking agent chloropicrin". Kirillov got his notoriety since the beginning of Russia's war with Ukraine as he put forward certain claims directed towards both Ukraine and the West. However, these claims were not based on any facts. One of his outrageous claims was that the US had been building biological weapons laboratories in Ukraine. Last month, he also claimed that "one of the priority aims" of Ukraine's counter-offensive into Russia's Kursk border region was to seize the Kursk nuclear power plant. (With inputs from agencies)

Who was Igor Kirillov? Russia's chemical weapons chief and a mouthpiece for exposing Western 'crimes'

Palm beach, florida 
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Before taking office, US President-elect Donald Trump announced that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had not been invited to his inauguration ceremony. The statement, made during Trump’s first formal press conference after winning the election, surprised many and hinted at a major foreign policy shift.
While Trump’s team is reportedly working to ease tensions with Russia, maintaining communication with President Vladimir Putin’s office. In addition, Trump confirmed that he had extended an invitation to Chinese President Xi Jinping. However, Xi’s acceptance remains unclear at this stage.
<h2>Trump plans federal changes</h2>
Addressing the media in a sweeping 70-minute news conference, the president-elect outlined plans for a clear break from the Biden administration. Trump criticised the current state of federal governance and promised action to ensure efficiency.
“If federal workers don’t return to the office, they will be fired,” Trump declared firmly. He also revealed that he is “looking at” the possibility of privatising the United States Postal Service.
Trump appeared confident and relaxed, showcasing a greater sense of readiness compared to his transition eight years ago.
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/i-cried-for-30-minutes-straight-michelle-obama-on-day-of-donald-trumps-inauguration-in-2017-569923"> I cried for 30 minutes straight: Michelle Obama on day of Donald Trump’s inauguration in 2017</a>
<h2>Shift in foreign alliances?</h2>
Trump’s decision to exclude Zelensky while reaching out to Putin and Xi marks a notable shift in US diplomacy. Zelensky, a key ally of the Biden administration, had received strong support during his presidency amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
While Trump avoided further elaboration on Zelensky’s absence, analysts suggest the move is part of his strategy to rebalance US foreign policy. “We are working to stabilise international relations,” Trump stated at the press conference held at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida.
(With inputs from agencies)

In a 70-minute press conference, President-elect Trump outlined plans to break from the Biden administration, criticising federal governance and promising greater efficiency.



Palm beach, florida Before taking office, US President-elect Donald Trump announced that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had not been invited to his inauguration ceremony. The statement, made during Trump’s first formal press conference after winning the election, surprised many and hinted at a major foreign policy shift. While Trump’s team is reportedly working to ease tensions with Russia, maintaining communication with President Vladimir Putin’s office. In addition, Trump confirmed that he had extended an invitation to Chinese President Xi Jinping. However, Xi’s acceptance remains unclear at this stage. Trump plans federal changes Addressing the media in a sweeping 70-minute news conference, the president-elect outlined plans for a clear break from the Biden administration. Trump criticised the current state of federal governance and promised action to ensure efficiency. “If federal workers don’t return to the office, they will be fired,” Trump declared firmly. He also revealed that he is “looking at” the possibility of privatising the United States Postal Service. Trump appeared confident and relaxed, showcasing a greater sense of readiness compared to his transition eight years ago. Also read: I cried for 30 minutes straight: Michelle Obama on day of Donald Trump’s inauguration in 2017 Shift in foreign alliances? Trump’s decision to exclude Zelensky while reaching out to Putin and Xi marks a notable shift in US diplomacy. Zelensky, a key ally of the Biden administration, had received strong support during his presidency amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. While Trump avoided further elaboration on Zelensky’s absence, analysts suggest the move is part of his strategy to rebalance US foreign policy. “We are working to stabilise international relations,” Trump stated at the press conference held at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump inauguration: Zelensky not invited, but US president-elect says 'would love to have' Xi Jinping

A top Russian General accused of using chemical weapons in the invasion of Ukraine has died after a bomb went off at the entrance to his home in Moscow on Tuesday. Watch for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Head Of Russia’s Nuclear Defence Forces Killed In Moscow Blast

A top Russian general accused of using chemical weapons in the invasion of Ukraine has died after a bomb went off at the entrance to his home in Moscow on Tuesday. Watch for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Top Russian General Killed In Moscow Blast

President-elect Donald Trump has announced plans to speak with Ukrainian President Zelensky and Russian President Putin, aiming to negotiate an end to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. His initiative seeks to bring about a peaceful resolution to the conflict, which has resulted in significant global instability.

Russia-Ukraine War: Trump To Talk To Zelensky, Putin To End War

President-elect Donald Trump has announced plans to speak with Ukrainian President Zelensky and Russian President Putin, aiming to negotiate an end to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. His initiative seeks to bring about a peaceful resolution to the conflict, which has resulted in significant global instability.



In his upcoming biography, Pop Francis claimed that he escaped two attempts on his life during his visit to Iran in 2021. The book titled "Hope" will be released next month.&nbsp;

Russian general Igor Kirillov was killed on Tuesday (Dec 17). He was assassinated in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow. He was&nbsp;the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops.&nbsp;

In news from other parts of the world, British-Pakistani girl Sara Sharif's father and her stepmother have been sentenced to life for murdering the 10-year-old. In 2023, her body was discovered in Surrey after she was physically assaulted by her father, stepmother, and uncle.&nbsp;

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Russian general Igor Kirillov, who was killed in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow, was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops.&nbsp;Lieutenant General Kirillov was assassinated by Ukraine's SBU intelligence service on Tuesday (Dec 17), according to a report by Reuters.

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In his upcoming biography, Pop Francis claimed that he escaped two attempts on his life during his visit to Iran in 2021. The book titled "Hope" will be released next month.

In his upcoming biography, Pop Francis claimed that he escaped two attempts on his life during his visit to Iran in 2021. The book titled "Hope" will be released next month. Russian general Igor Kirillov was killed on Tuesday (Dec 17). He was assassinated in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow. He was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops. In news from other parts of the world, British-Pakistani girl Sara Sharif's father and her stepmother have been sentenced to life for murdering the 10-year-old. In 2023, her body was discovered in Surrey after she was physically assaulted by her father, stepmother, and uncle. Click on the links to read more Pope Francis says he escaped two attempts on his life during 2021 Iraq visit Pope Francis has said that he escaped two attempts on his life during his historic visit to Iraq in 2021. He made this claim in his upcoming autobiography, which will be released next month. Who was Igor Kirillov? Russia's chemical weapons chief Russian general Igor Kirillov, who was killed in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow, was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops. Lieutenant General Kirillov was assassinated by Ukraine's SBU intelligence service on Tuesday (Dec 17), according to a report by Reuters. Sara Sharif murder: 'Sadist' father and stepmother imprisoned for life British-Pakistani girl Sara Sharif's father, Urfan Sharif, and stepmother Beinash Batool have been jailed for life for murdering their 10-year-old daughter. Amit Shah in Parliament: Congress changed Constitution 77 times in 55 years Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday during a debate marking 75 years since the adoption of the Constitution and used the occasion to rip into the Congress party and its leadership over the imposition of emergency and for making amendments in the statute for 'personal' gains. Iran's Khamenei says 'resistance' not over after Assad ouster Iran's supreme leader said Tuesday that Israel and the United States were "completely wrong" to imagine the Tehran-backed axis of resistance had collapsed with the ouster of Syria's longtime strongman. UK sending £35 million aid to help Ukrainians survive winter The British government Tuesday announced £35 million ($44 million) in aid to repair Ukraine's energy grid battered by Russian strikes and help Ukrainians confront freezing winter weather. China executes ex-official convicted in nation's largest-ever corruption case China on Tuesday (Dec 17) executed a former official who was convicted in the country's largest-ever corruption case. According to a report by the state-run Xinhua news agency, the death sentence was awarded to Li Jianping, a former official in the north Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. Missing Hawaii woman case: Was unaware of media frenzy, says Hannah Kobayashi after her return Hannah Kobayashi, the missing Hawaii woman found recently, said she was "unaware of everything" that happened in the media and her family. After returning to the United States from Mexico, Hannah said in a statement handed on Tuesday (Dec 17) by her aunt that she is "still processing it all" and urged people to respect her family during “this challenging time". BGT, Gabba Test, Australia vs India: Weather report of final day in Brisbane Weather conditions and 98 overs on the final day will decide the fate of the third BGT Test between Australia and India at the Gabba. With rain playing spoilsport for the fourth straight day in Brisbane, overcast conditions are predicted for the fifth day too. Pushpa 2 stampede case: Telangana police likely to challenge Allu Arjun’s bail Actor Allu Arjun’s bail might get cut short soon as Telangana police are preparing to challenge it and take the matter to the Supreme Court.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 17) claimed that Russian troops have burnt the faces of deceased North Korean soldiers to conceal their identity and hide their presence.&nbsp;

Zelensky shared a 31-second video, showing a group of people burning what appears to be a corpse on a snow-covered slope.&nbsp;

"Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse," Zelensky said in a post on X.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse. 
 
Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions, but also tries to conceal losses of these people. 
 
They tried to hide the presence of… <a href="https://t.co/KYyGF1rxP8">pic.twitter.com/KYyGF1rxP8</a>
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1868777841917059313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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He further said that Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions but also "tries to conceal losses of these people".

The Ukrainian president stressed that the Russians attempted to erase any video evidence of their presence.&nbsp;

"Now, after first combats with our warriors, Russians are trying…to literally burn the faces of North Korean soldiers killed in battle," he said, adding, "This is a demonstration of disrespect, which is currently prevalent in Russia, a disrespect to everything human."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-claims-killing-or-injuring-30-north-korean-soldiers-in-kursk-region-784464">Also read:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region</a>

Zelensky said that there is not a single reason for North Koreans to fight and die for Putin.&nbsp;

"This madness must be stopped—stopped by a reliable and durable peace, as well as Russia’s accountability for this cynical war," he emphasised.&nbsp;

Earlier on Monday, Zelensky claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This was the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang had sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Trump To Talk To Zelensky, Putin To End War

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Prior to that, he said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them."

Washington and Seoul have also accused Pyongyang of sending over 10,000 troops to support Moscow following the signing of a significant defence agreement between Russia and North Korea earlier this year.

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.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 17) claimed that Russian troops have burnt the faces of deceased North Korean soldiers to conceal their identity and hide their presence.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 17) claimed that Russian troops have burnt the faces of deceased North Korean soldiers to conceal their identity and hide their presence. Zelensky shared a 31-second video, showing a group of people burning what appears to be a corpse on a snow-covered slope. "Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse," Zelensky said in a post on X. Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse. Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions, but also tries to conceal losses of these people. They tried to hide the presence of… pic.twitter.com/KYyGF1rxP8 — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) December 16, 2024 × He further said that Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions but also "tries to conceal losses of these people". The Ukrainian president stressed that the Russians attempted to erase any video evidence of their presence. "Now, after first combats with our warriors, Russians are trying…to literally burn the faces of North Korean soldiers killed in battle," he said, adding, "This is a demonstration of disrespect, which is currently prevalent in Russia, a disrespect to everything human." Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region Zelensky said that there is not a single reason for North Koreans to fight and die for Putin. "This madness must be stopped—stopped by a reliable and durable peace, as well as Russia’s accountability for this cynical war," he emphasised. Earlier on Monday, Zelensky claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This was the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang had sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Trump To Talk To Zelensky, Putin To End War × Prior to that, he said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them." Washington and Seoul have also accused Pyongyang of sending over 10,000 troops to support Moscow following the signing of a significant defence agreement between Russia and North Korea earlier this year. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

The British government Tuesday announced £35 million ($44 million) in aid to repair Ukraine's energy grid battered by Russian strikes and help Ukrainians confront freezing winter weather.

The British government Tuesday announced £35 million ($44 million) in aid to repair Ukraine's energy grid battered by Russian strikes and help Ukrainians confront freezing winter weather. Some £20 million will be allocated to try to restore the power network and protect Ukrainian infrastructure, a UK government statement said. A further £15 million will be made available to "provide lifesaving humanitarian support to the most in need as temperatures in Ukraine plummet". Russia launched one of its largest missile attacks ever in the early hours of Friday, once again targeting war-torn Ukraine's energy grid. Watch | Polio Vaccination Team Attacked In Pakistan, At least One Policeman Killed The attack "severely damaged" some Ukrainian power plants, the Ukrainian DTEK power provider said and knocked out electricity to thousands of people. "As Putin's oil revenues continue to fuel the fires of his illegal war, Ukrainian families are enduring cold, dark nights, often without heating, light or electricity, targeted by Russia's relentless missile attacks," said British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. "But these systematic attacks on Ukraine's infrastructure will not grind Ukraine down. It will only deepen our resolve and support," he added. Russia has conducted at least 11 large-scale strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure since the beginning of the year, Kyiv says, with Ukrainians now enduring their third winter at war. The UK government also sanctioned energy companies 2Rivers DMCC and 2Rivers PTE LTD, which are "key lynchpins in enabling the trading" of Russian oil, the government said. Starmer further announced additional crackdowns on Moscow's so-called "shadow fleet" of oil tankers which bypass Western sanctions. The latest round of sanctions targets 20 ships. Also read | Europe's destruction, contact with aliens: Here's what Baba Vanga predicted for 2025 The UK government said it has now sanctioned more than 100 ships for transporting Russian energy, leaving tankers "idling uselessly outside ports" and "costing Putin and his war efforts millions in wasted funds". EU countries last week agreed to blacklist around 50 more oil tankers in their 15th package of sanctions since Moscow's 2022 full-scale invasion. The UK has also agreed to work with Denmark, Sweden, Poland, Finland, and Estonia to request proof of insurance from suspected shadow vessels in the Baltic and North Sea. 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.

Russian President Vladimir Putin declared 2024 a landmark year in Russia's military campaign against Ukraine, hailing accelerating advances and issuing yet another warning to Western nations about crossing Russia's red lines.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine War Turning in Russia's Favour, Says Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin declared 2024 a landmark year in Russia's military campaign against Ukraine, hailing accelerating advances and issuing yet another warning to Western nations about crossing Russia's red lines. 

A senior Russian general has been killed by a bomb hidden in a scooter outside his apartment building in Moscow... The attack comes a day after Ukraine’s security service leveled criminal charges against him. Watch in for more details!

Russian diplomat Igor Kirillov, who was killed in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow, was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops.&nbsp;

Lieutenant General Kirillov was assassinated by Ukraine's SBU intelligence service on Tuesday (Dec 17), according to a report by Reuters.&nbsp;

Kirillov was killed outside an apartment building along with his assistant when a bomb hidden in an electric scooter went off, said Russia's Investigative Committee, which probes serious crimes. According to the report, a bomb was hidden inside an e-scooter which was parked near the apartment building.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/igor-kirillov-the-russian-general-in-charge-of-nuclear-protection-forces-killed-in-explosion-in-moscow-784646">Also read:&nbsp;'Ukraine kills' Russian General Igor Kirillov who was in charge of nation's nuclear protection forces</a>

Later, Ukraine claimed responsibility for his killing and said that a Ukrainian intelligence agency had been behind the hit.

<h2>Who was Igor Kirillov?</h2>

In Russia, Kirillov was seen as a tireless patriot, fighting for the truth and exposing Western "crimes". He was also accused by the West of overseeing the use of chemical weapons in their war with Ukraine.&nbsp;

He got popular for his offbeat briefings at the Russian defence ministry, which also provoked the UK Foreign Office to label him as a "significant mouthpiece for Kremlin disinformation".&nbsp;

He was much more than a mouthpiece, as he was heading Russia's Timoshenko Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection Academy, before going on to lead the Russian army's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection Troops in 2017.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Head Of Russia’s Nuclear Defence Forces Killed In Moscow Blast

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The troops were responsible for identifying hazards and protecting units from contamination but also "causing loss to the enemy by using flame-incendiary means".&nbsp;

The UK Foreign Office said that the force Kirillov commanded had deployed "barbaric chemical weapons in Ukraine", stressing that it highlighted what according to them was the widespread use of riot control agents and "multiple reports of the use of the toxic choking agent chloropicrin".

Kirillov got his notoriety since the beginning of Russia's war with Ukraine as he put forward certain claims directed towards both Ukraine and the West. However, these claims were not based on any facts.&nbsp;

One of his outrageous claims was that the US had been building biological weapons laboratories in Ukraine.

Last month, he also claimed that "one of the priority aims" of Ukraine's counter-offensive into Russia's Kursk border region was to seize the Kursk nuclear power plant.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian diplomat Igor Kirillov, who was killed in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow, was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops.

Russian diplomat Igor Kirillov, who was killed in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow, was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops. Lieutenant General Kirillov was assassinated by Ukraine's SBU intelligence service on Tuesday (Dec 17), according to a report by Reuters. Kirillov was killed outside an apartment building along with his assistant when a bomb hidden in an electric scooter went off, said Russia's Investigative Committee, which probes serious crimes. According to the report, a bomb was hidden inside an e-scooter which was parked near the apartment building. Also read: 'Ukraine kills' Russian General Igor Kirillov who was in charge of nation's nuclear protection forces Later, Ukraine claimed responsibility for his killing and said that a Ukrainian intelligence agency had been behind the hit. Who was Igor Kirillov? In Russia, Kirillov was seen as a tireless patriot, fighting for the truth and exposing Western "crimes". He was also accused by the West of overseeing the use of chemical weapons in their war with Ukraine. He got popular for his offbeat briefings at the Russian defence ministry, which also provoked the UK Foreign Office to label him as a "significant mouthpiece for Kremlin disinformation". He was much more than a mouthpiece, as he was heading Russia's Timoshenko Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection Academy, before going on to lead the Russian army's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection Troops in 2017. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Head Of Russia’s Nuclear Defence Forces Killed In Moscow Blast × The troops were responsible for identifying hazards and protecting units from contamination but also "causing loss to the enemy by using flame-incendiary means". The UK Foreign Office said that the force Kirillov commanded had deployed "barbaric chemical weapons in Ukraine", stressing that it highlighted what according to them was the widespread use of riot control agents and "multiple reports of the use of the toxic choking agent chloropicrin". Kirillov got his notoriety since the beginning of Russia's war with Ukraine as he put forward certain claims directed towards both Ukraine and the West. However, these claims were not based on any facts. One of his outrageous claims was that the US had been building biological weapons laboratories in Ukraine. Last month, he also claimed that "one of the priority aims" of Ukraine's counter-offensive into Russia's Kursk border region was to seize the Kursk nuclear power plant. (With inputs from agencies)

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