Two Chinese nationals have been arrested for trying to smuggle undocumented children out of Ukraine and into Romania.

Ukraine's State Border Guard Service reported on Monday that border guards held off foreigners from taking babies out of the country at the Porubne Border Crossing Point in Chernivtsi Oblast.&nbsp;

The people who have been identified as Chinese nationals were carrying two infants as they attempted to cross the border and into Romania when they attracted suspicion from the border guards who suspected that something was off.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-refugee-crisis-raises-other-concerns-feeling-women-minors-may-be-targetted-for-trafficking-462747">Ukraine refugee crisis raises other concerns; fleeing women &amp; minors may be targetted for trafficking</a>

Upon inspection, border officials discovered that the foreigners did not have any identification documents for the infants.&nbsp;

In an investigation conducted by the State Border Guard Service, it was found that both Chinese had arrived in the country without children a few weeks before this incident.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🚫Прикордонники припинили спробу вивезення з України громадянами Китаю немовлят без документів 
▪️У пункті пропуску «Порубне», що у Чернівецькій області, прикордонники припинили спробу іноземців вивезти немовлят. 
▪️Двоє громадян Китаю намагалися пішки перейти з України в Румунію <a href="https://t.co/44Kmp2TsAl">pic.twitter.com/44Kmp2TsAl</a>
— Держприкордонслужба (@DPSU_ua) <a href="https://twitter.com/DPSU_ua/status/1503432061213986821?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

When border guards questioned the two men, they were unable to explain where the children came from.&nbsp;

Now the Ukrainian National Police is looking into the matter.&nbsp;The Ukrainian government's website features pictures of the babies being looked after by its border force.

<img alt="Ukraine border force cares for rescued babies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a575c714-83fa-4726-ab95-67c5ec689d9b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%2820%29_0.jpg" />

<img alt="Ukraine border force cares for rescued babies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9702a948-5ce2-4b6c-b973-0540ab554497" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%2819%29_2.jpg" />

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jumping-the-gun-as-calls-for-its-expulsion-grow-russia-announces-ruxit-from-council-of-europe-462722" hreflang="en">Jumping the gun: As calls for its expulsion grow, Russia announces 'Ruxit'&nbsp;from Council of Europe</a>

However, it remains unclear what will become of the babies as the identities of their parents remain a mystery.

According to a US Department of State report, many of the trafficked children in China are forced into labour.

The report said: “China is a source, transit, and destination country for men, women, and children who are subjected to trafficking in persons, specifically forced labour and forced prostitution.

“Well-organised international criminal syndicates and local gangs play key roles in both internal and cross-border trafficking."

Watch |&nbsp;Surrogacy industry in Ukraine hit by war, citizenship of newborn babies unclear

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/surrogacy-industry-in-ukraine-hit-by-war-citizenship-of-newborn-babies-unclear-462804/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Women and girls from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and several countries in Africa experience forced labour in domestic service, forced concubinism leading to forced childbearing, and sex trafficking via forced and fraudulent marriage to Chinese men."&nbsp;

"Traffickers target adults and children with developmental disabilities and children whose parents have left them with relatives to migrate to the cities—estimated at 6.4 million—and subject them to forced labour and forced begging."

(With inputs from agencies)

Two Chinese nationals have been arrested for trying to smuggle undocumented children out of Ukraine and into Romania. Ukraine's State Border Guard Service reported on Monday that border guards held off foreigners from taking babies out of the country at the Porubne Border Crossing Point in Chernivtsi Oblast.

Two Chinese nationals have been arrested for trying to smuggle undocumented children out of Ukraine and into Romania. Ukraine's State Border Guard Service reported on Monday that border guards held off foreigners from taking babies out of the country at the Porubne Border Crossing Point in Chernivtsi Oblast. The people who have been identified as Chinese nationals were carrying two infants as they attempted to cross the border and into Romania when they attracted suspicion from the border guards who suspected that something was off. Also read | Ukraine refugee crisis raises other concerns; fleeing women & minors may be targetted for trafficking Upon inspection, border officials discovered that the foreigners did not have any identification documents for the infants. In an investigation conducted by the State Border Guard Service, it was found that both Chinese had arrived in the country without children a few weeks before this incident. 🚫Прикордонники припинили спробу вивезення з України громадянами Китаю немовлят без документів ▪️У пункті пропуску «Порубне», що у Чернівецькій області, прикордонники припинили спробу іноземців вивезти немовлят. ▪️Двоє громадян Китаю намагалися пішки перейти з України в Румунію pic.twitter.com/44Kmp2TsAl — Держприкордонслужба (@DPSU_ua) March 14, 2022 × When border guards questioned the two men, they were unable to explain where the children came from. Now the Ukrainian National Police is looking into the matter. The Ukrainian government's website features pictures of the babies being looked after by its border force. Also read | Jumping the gun: As calls for its expulsion grow, Russia announces 'Ruxit' from Council of Europe However, it remains unclear what will become of the babies as the identities of their parents remain a mystery. According to a US Department of State report, many of the trafficked children in China are forced into labour. The report said: “China is a source, transit, and destination country for men, women, and children who are subjected to trafficking in persons, specifically forced labour and forced prostitution. “Well-organised international criminal syndicates and local gangs play key roles in both internal and cross-border trafficking." Watch | Surrogacy industry in Ukraine hit by war, citizenship of newborn babies unclear "Women and girls from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and several countries in Africa experience forced labour in domestic service, forced concubinism leading to forced childbearing, and sex trafficking via forced and fraudulent marriage to Chinese men." "Traffickers target adults and children with developmental disabilities and children whose parents have left them with relatives to migrate to the cities—estimated at 6.4 million—and subject them to forced labour and forced begging." (With inputs from agencies)

Two Chinese nationals arrested for allegedly attempting to smuggle infants from Ukraine

Is the US or the West really concerned about Ukraine? Well, this seems to be the opportune moment to ask this crucial question. &nbsp;

At a time when Russia is enhancing its operations in Ukraine, US Vice-President Kamala Harris has reached Poland. The leader must be really concerned about the humanitarian crisis unfolding due to the conflict. But is she? &nbsp;

The US leader is currently facing widespread criticism after she broke into laughter on a serious question about the fate of Ukrainian refugees.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-biowarfare-labs-claim-russia-using-unsc-for-spreading-disinformation-says-us-461467">Russia using UNSC for 'spreading disinformation', says US</a>

The incident occurred when Harris and Polish President Andrzej Duda were addressing a joint press conference in Warsaw on Thursday. &nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Reporter: Can you answer this question regarding the tragedy of the Ukrainian refugees? 
 
Kamala Harris: Hahahahahahahahahahahahaha... <a href="https://t.co/sTZsEA5Iuf">pic.twitter.com/sTZsEA5Iuf</a>
— Dark Discourse (@DarkDiscourse) <a href="https://twitter.com/DarkDiscourse/status/1501911604753010696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

A reporter asked Harris that will the United States take in Ukrainian refugees, and President Duda “if you asked the United States to specifically accept more refugees?” &nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Vice President Kamala Harris laughs when asked about Ukrainian refugees fleeing from the Russian invasion. 
 
Unacceptable. <a href="https://t.co/PaUqlFKGWu">https://t.co/PaUqlFKGWu</a>
— Rep Andy Biggs (@RepAndyBiggsAZ) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepAndyBiggsAZ/status/1502061682935443471?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Harris first looked at&nbsp;Duda to see if he would like to respond, and said, "A friend in need is a friend indeed." She then laughed for several seconds while standing at the podium. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-conflict-russia-violates-nuclear-safety-principles-in-ukraine-says-us-461477">In conflict, Russia violates nuclear safety principles in Ukraine, says US</a>

Duda then confirmed that Poland has indeed asked Harris to help speed up the consular process for the refugees from Ukraine. &nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This afternoon, I met with Romanian President Klaus Iohannis in Bucharest. We reaffirmed that the United States and Romania, along with our allies and partners, stand together in opposing Russian aggression in Ukraine. NATO is united and stronger than ever. <a href="https://t.co/HeyIRjS55W">pic.twitter.com/HeyIRjS55W</a>
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) <a href="https://twitter.com/VP/status/1502432924964171784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

However, Harris did not answer whether the US will take any number of refugees. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On Twitter, a user said, "Utterly inappropriate and unacceptable. What is there to laugh???" &nbsp;&nbsp;

More than 2.5 million people have fled Ukraine till now. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Is the US or the West really concerned about Ukraine? Well, this seems to be the opportune moment to ask this crucial question. At a time when Russia is enhancing its operations in Ukraine, US Vice-President Kamala Harris has reached Poland.

Is the US or the West really concerned about Ukraine? Well, this seems to be the opportune moment to ask this crucial question. At a time when Russia is enhancing its operations in Ukraine, US Vice-President Kamala Harris has reached Poland. The leader must be really concerned about the humanitarian crisis unfolding due to the conflict. But is she? The US leader is currently facing widespread criticism after she broke into laughter on a serious question about the fate of Ukrainian refugees. Also Read: Russia using UNSC for 'spreading disinformation', says US The incident occurred when Harris and Polish President Andrzej Duda were addressing a joint press conference in Warsaw on Thursday. Reporter: Can you answer this question regarding the tragedy of the Ukrainian refugees? Kamala Harris: Hahahahahahahahahahahahaha... pic.twitter.com/sTZsEA5Iuf — Dark Discourse (@DarkDiscourse) March 10, 2022 × A reporter asked Harris that will the United States take in Ukrainian refugees, and President Duda “if you asked the United States to specifically accept more refugees?” Vice President Kamala Harris laughs when asked about Ukrainian refugees fleeing from the Russian invasion. Unacceptable. https://t.co/PaUqlFKGWu — Rep Andy Biggs (@RepAndyBiggsAZ) March 10, 2022 × Harris first looked at Duda to see if he would like to respond, and said, "A friend in need is a friend indeed." She then laughed for several seconds while standing at the podium. Also Read: In conflict, Russia violates nuclear safety principles in Ukraine, says US Duda then confirmed that Poland has indeed asked Harris to help speed up the consular process for the refugees from Ukraine. This afternoon, I met with Romanian President Klaus Iohannis in Bucharest. We reaffirmed that the United States and Romania, along with our allies and partners, stand together in opposing Russian aggression in Ukraine. NATO is united and stronger than ever. pic.twitter.com/HeyIRjS55W — Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) March 11, 2022 × However, Harris did not answer whether the US will take any number of refugees. On Twitter, a user said, "Utterly inappropriate and unacceptable. What is there to laugh???" More than 2.5 million people have fled Ukraine till now. (With inputs from agencies)

US Vice-President Kamala Harris faces flak for laughing on question over Ukrainian refugees’ fate

The Russia-Ukraine conflict has forced several people to flee the invasion with ‘practically’ nothing. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In this difficult time, several people in the Polish communities on the border have looked to help the refugees in a heart-warming way. &nbsp;

These people have filled the area at Przemyśl station, which is the first train stop for refugees, who enter Poland via the Medyka border crossing, with jackets, toys, stuffed animals, strollers, carriers, diapers and even walkers for the elderly. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/laughable-us-denies-russian-accusations-of-biowarfare-labs-in-ukraine-460758" hreflang="en">'Laughable': US denies Russian accusations of biowarfare labs in Ukraine</a>

With this gesture, the refugees are getting greeted with the things of basic needs just at the moment they step off the train onto the platform at the station. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This is the Przemysl railway station in Poland where thousands of Ukrainians are arriving from across the border. Polish people are welcoming them with open arms. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UkraineRussiaWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UkraineRussiaWar</a> <a href="https://t.co/ylAHYOBqzd">pic.twitter.com/ylAHYOBqzd</a>
— Ankita Jain (@Ankita20200) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ankita20200/status/1500396834178867206?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Several of these refugees have entered Poland to safeguard their lives but road ahead may not be an easy task. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This noble initiative by several Polish citizens seems to have been greatly comforting for the refugees. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-condemns-airstrike-at-childrens-hospital-in-ukraine-zelensky-describes-it-as-war-crime-460757">US slams strike at kids' hospital in Ukraine; Zelensky calls it 'war crime'</a>

It will help to alleviate some stress and emotions attached to fleeing the fighting in Ukraine and is definitely going to bring a smile on their faces. &nbsp;

Not just this, several people are also offering rides to refugees to different places across Europe. Volunteers are also helping them in finding a place to stay. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Russia-Ukraine conflict has forced several people to flee the invasion with ‘practically’ nothing. In this difficult time, several people in the Polish communities on the border have looked to help the refugees in a heart-warming way.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict has forced several people to flee the invasion with ‘practically’ nothing. In this difficult time, several people in the Polish communities on the border have looked to help the refugees in a heart-warming way. These people have filled the area at Przemyśl station, which is the first train stop for refugees, who enter Poland via the Medyka border crossing, with jackets, toys, stuffed animals, strollers, carriers, diapers and even walkers for the elderly. Also Read | 'Laughable': US denies Russian accusations of biowarfare labs in Ukraine With this gesture, the refugees are getting greeted with the things of basic needs just at the moment they step off the train onto the platform at the station. This is the Przemysl railway station in Poland where thousands of Ukrainians are arriving from across the border. Polish people are welcoming them with open arms. #UkraineRussiaWar pic.twitter.com/ylAHYOBqzd — Ankita Jain (@Ankita20200) March 6, 2022 × Several of these refugees have entered Poland to safeguard their lives but road ahead may not be an easy task. This noble initiative by several Polish citizens seems to have been greatly comforting for the refugees. Also Read: US slams strike at kids' hospital in Ukraine; Zelensky calls it 'war crime' It will help to alleviate some stress and emotions attached to fleeing the fighting in Ukraine and is definitely going to bring a smile on their faces. Not just this, several people are also offering rides to refugees to different places across Europe. Volunteers are also helping them in finding a place to stay. (With inputs from agencies)

In a heart-warming gesture, Polish citizens leave essentials at border for Ukrainian refugees

France has asked Britain to act quickly to resolve a visa blockade that is preventing some Ukrainian migrants from entering the UK through Calais, describing the situation as "inhumane" by France's interior minister, Gérald Darmanin.

According to Darmanin, 150 of the 400 Ukrainian refugees who arrived in the northern French port after the Russian invasion were unable to enter the United Kingdom. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ukrainian-girl-sings-let-it-go-moves-hearts-from-kyivs-bomb-shelter-459765">Watch: Ukrainian girl sings 'Let It Go', moves hearts from Kyiv’s bomb shelter</a>

He stated that they had been directed to process visa applications in Paris or Brussels.

Darmanin said he had urged UK Home Secretary Priti Patel to establish a special consulate in Calais to handle their papers.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/an-ukrainian-boy-travelled-1000-km-alone-to-slovakia-to-get-to-safety-459734">Also read | An Ukrainian boy travelled 1,000 km alone to Slovakia to get to safety</a>

Darmanin wrote to UK Home Secretary Priti Patel, urging her to establish a professional consular office in Calais, saying the British government's reaction thus far had been "completely unsuitable" and demonstrated a "lack of humanity" toward refugees who were often "in distress."

Darmanin wrote in the letter, which was viewed by the Agence France-Presse news agency: "It is imperative that your consular representation – exceptionally and for the duration of this crisis – is able to issue visas for family reunification on the spot in Calais."

(With inputs from agencies)

France has asked Britain to act quickly to resolve a visa blockade that is preventing some Ukrainian migrants from entering the UK through Calais, describing the situation as "inhumane" by France's interior minister, Gérald Darmanin.

France has asked Britain to act quickly to resolve a visa blockade that is preventing some Ukrainian migrants from entering the UK through Calais, describing the situation as "inhumane" by France's interior minister, Gérald Darmanin. According to Darmanin, 150 of the 400 Ukrainian refugees who arrived in the northern French port after the Russian invasion were unable to enter the United Kingdom. Watch: Ukrainian girl sings 'Let It Go', moves hearts from Kyiv’s bomb shelter He stated that they had been directed to process visa applications in Paris or Brussels. Darmanin said he had urged UK Home Secretary Priti Patel to establish a special consulate in Calais to handle their papers. Also read | An Ukrainian boy travelled 1,000 km alone to Slovakia to get to safety Darmanin wrote to UK Home Secretary Priti Patel, urging her to establish a professional consular office in Calais, saying the British government's reaction thus far had been "completely unsuitable" and demonstrated a "lack of humanity" toward refugees who were often "in distress." Darmanin wrote in the letter, which was viewed by the Agence France-Presse news agency: "It is imperative that your consular representation – exceptionally and for the duration of this crisis – is able to issue visas for family reunification on the spot in Calais." (With inputs from agencies)

UK gives visas to only 50 Ukrainian refugees, France calls it 'lack of humanity'

The number of Ukrainian refugees was expected to reach 1.5 million on Sunday as Russia continued its attack 11 days after invading Ukraine and Kyiv pressed for further Western action, including more sanctions and weapons. 
 
Moscow and Kyiv traded blame over a failed ceasefire plan that would have let civilians flee Mariupol and Volnovakha, two southern cities besieged by Russian forces. Another round of talks was tentatively planned for Monday as Ukrainians who could escape spilled into neighboring Poland, Romania, Slovakia and elsewhere. 
 
In a televised address on Saturday night, Ukraine`s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy called on people in areas occupied by Russian troops to go on the offensive and fight. 
 
"We must go outside and drive this evil out of our cities," he said, vowing to rebuild his nation. "My confidence in this is reinforced by the energy of our resistance, our protest." 
 
Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier reiterated that he wanted a neutral Ukraine that had been "demilitarised" and "denazified," and likened Western sanctions "to a declaration of war," adding: "Thank God it has not come to that." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-are-czech-hedgehogs-homemade-obstacles-that-can-destroy-russian-tanks-459254">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks</a> 
 
Ukraine and Western countries have decried Putin`s reasons as a baseless pretext for the invasion he launched on Feb. 24 and have imposed sweeping sanctions aimed at isolating Moscow and crippling its economy. 
 
Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, after meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the Ukraine-Poland border, said he expected new sanctions and weapons for Ukraine in coming days. 
 
The United States has said it would give Ukraine more weapons and has repeatedly warned it could escalate sanctions, with President Joe Biden seeking $10 billion in emergency funding to respond to the crisis. 
 
Washington is working with Poland as Warsaw considers whether to provide fighter jets to Ukraine, a White House spokesperson said late on Saturday, adding that the United States could replenish Poland`s supply of jets if they did, although challenges remain given the contested airspace. 
 
Zelenskiy had asked for help securing aircraft from European allies in a video call with U.S. lawmakers earlier on Saturday. He also called again for more lethal aid, a ban on Russian oil, a no-fly zone and an end to Visa Inc and MasterCard Inc privileges in Russia, U.S. media reported. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russia-attacks-ukraine-kalibr-cruise-missiles-tested-in-syrian-battlefield-459267">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Russia attacks Ukraine: Kalibr cruise missiles 'tested' in Syrian battlefield</a> 
 
Biden spoke with Zelenskiy for about 30 minutes on Saturday evening in Washington as Sunday broke in Ukraine, the White House said. They discussed security, financial support for Ukraine and the continuation of sanctions against Russia, Zelenskiy wrote on Twitter. 
 
NATO, which Ukraine wants to join, has resisted Zelenskiy`s appeals to impose a no-fly zone over his country, saying it would escalate the conflict outside Ukraine. 
 
Seeking to mediate, Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett met with Putin at the Kremlin on Saturday and later spoke to Zelenskiy, Bennett`s spokesperson said. 
 
"We continue dialogue," Zelenskiy tweeted after the call. 
 
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson issued a six-point plan to respond to Russia`s invasion ahead of meetings with leaders from Canada, the Netherlands and Central Europe in London next week. 
 
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan is expected to talk with Putin on Sunday. Turkey, a NATO member, shares a maritime border with Ukraine and Russia in the Black Sea. 
 
Ukrainian negotiators said a third round of talks with Russia on a ceasefire would go ahead on Monday, although Moscow was less definitive. 
 
FIERCE FIGHTING 
 
Russia`s Defence Ministry said its forces were carrying out a wide-ranging offensive in Ukraine and had taken several towns and villages, Russian news agency Interfax said. 
 
Ukraine`s military said armed forces "are fighting fiercely to liberate Ukrainian cities from Russian occupiers," counter-attacking in some areas and disrupting communications. 
 
The general staff of Ukraine`s armed forces said the military shot down two Russian planes and five helicopters on Saturday and also carried out air strikes against 15 motorized brigades. Reuters had no way to corroborate the claim. 
 
In Kherson, southern Ukraine, the only regional capital to have changed hands since the invasion, several thousand people demonstrated on its main square on Saturday, chanting "Kherson is Ukraine" and demanding Russian forces withdraw. 
 
Eyewitnesses cited by Interfax said Russian troops fired automatic rifles into the air in an unsuccessful attempt to disperse the crowd and later left. 
 
Concerns over nuclear dangers remained after Russia seized Ukraine`s Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, with a top U.S. official saying on Friday that Russian troops were 20 miles (32 km) from Ukraine`s second largest nuclear facility. 
 
Russia was warning the EU and NATO again to stop the "pumping of state-of-the-art weapons systems" into Kyiv, foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said, according to RIA. 
 
Putin, in one of several decrees signed on Saturday, also gave his government two days to draw up a list of nations engaged in "unfriendly acts" towards Russia, its news agencies reported. 
 
VISA, MASTERCARD EXIT 
 
The International Monetary Fund warned the conflict would have a "severe impact" on the global economy, driving up energy and grain prices. It said it would weigh Kyiv`s request for $1.4 billion in emergency financing as early as next week. 
 
Many Russians, reeling from a 30% fall in the rouble`s value, money transfer curbs and the exit of a growing number of Western companies, have expressed fear for their economic future. 
 
Both Visa and Mastercard on Saturday said their credit card operations would be suspended in Russia. 
 
Elon Musk promised to deliver more Starlink satellite internet terminals to Ukraine next week, Zelenskiy said on Saturday, adding he had spoken to the SpaceX chief executive. That could help shore up Ukraine`s internet access but also poses potential security risks, experts say. 
 
'HELP US IF YOU CAN' 
 
Heavy shelling was heard in the background as residents of Volnovakha tried to flee the fighting. 
 
"Help us if you can, we all want to live, we have kids, husbands, we are mothers and fathers, we are also people," said one local, Larisa. "Where shall I go? What`s on me and a bag of things is all I got. That`s all I have." 
 
Blinken, following a meeting in Brussels of counterparts from NATO, the G7 and the European Union, met refugees staying in a disused shopping mall in Poland, which has taken in the vast majority of the Ukrainians forced to flee their country. 
 
Ksenia Tymofeeva, 41, worked in a bank in Kyiv until she fled two days ago, leaving behind her husband, also a bank worker, who stayed to fight the Russian invaders. 
 
"He doesn`t have any military experience, but it`s our homeland," she said at the site near the Poland-Ukraine border. 
 
More refugees crossed into Moldova, Blinken's next stop. 
 
The World Health Organization said 249 civilians had been killed so far and 553 injured as of March 3. It put the number of refugees at 1.2 million and said another 160,000 people had been internally displaced. 
 
"The human cost is likely much higher as access and security challenges make it difficult to verify the actual number of deaths and injuries," it said in a statement.

The number of Ukrainian refugees was expected to reach 1.5 million on Sunday as Russia continued its attack 11 days after invading Ukraine and Kyiv pressed for further Western action, including more sanctions and weapons.

The number of Ukrainian refugees was expected to reach 1.5 million on Sunday as Russia continued its attack 11 days after invading Ukraine and Kyiv pressed for further Western action, including more sanctions and weapons. Moscow and Kyiv traded blame over a failed ceasefire plan that would have let civilians flee Mariupol and Volnovakha, two southern cities besieged by Russian forces. Another round of talks was tentatively planned for Monday as Ukrainians who could escape spilled into neighboring Poland, Romania, Slovakia and elsewhere. In a televised address on Saturday night, Ukraine`s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy called on people in areas occupied by Russian troops to go on the offensive and fight. "We must go outside and drive this evil out of our cities," he said, vowing to rebuild his nation. "My confidence in this is reinforced by the energy of our resistance, our protest." Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier reiterated that he wanted a neutral Ukraine that had been "demilitarised" and "denazified," and likened Western sanctions "to a declaration of war," adding: "Thank God it has not come to that." Also Read in Pics: What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks Ukraine and Western countries have decried Putin`s reasons as a baseless pretext for the invasion he launched on Feb. 24 and have imposed sweeping sanctions aimed at isolating Moscow and crippling its economy. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, after meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the Ukraine-Poland border, said he expected new sanctions and weapons for Ukraine in coming days. The United States has said it would give Ukraine more weapons and has repeatedly warned it could escalate sanctions, with President Joe Biden seeking $10 billion in emergency funding to respond to the crisis. Washington is working with Poland as Warsaw considers whether to provide fighter jets to Ukraine, a White House spokesperson said late on Saturday, adding that the United States could replenish Poland`s supply of jets if they did, although challenges remain given the contested airspace. Zelenskiy had asked for help securing aircraft from European allies in a video call with U.S. lawmakers earlier on Saturday. He also called again for more lethal aid, a ban on Russian oil, a no-fly zone and an end to Visa Inc and MasterCard Inc privileges in Russia, U.S. media reported. Also Read in Pics: Russia attacks Ukraine: Kalibr cruise missiles 'tested' in Syrian battlefield Biden spoke with Zelenskiy for about 30 minutes on Saturday evening in Washington as Sunday broke in Ukraine, the White House said. They discussed security, financial support for Ukraine and the continuation of sanctions against Russia, Zelenskiy wrote on Twitter. NATO, which Ukraine wants to join, has resisted Zelenskiy`s appeals to impose a no-fly zone over his country, saying it would escalate the conflict outside Ukraine. Seeking to mediate, Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett met with Putin at the Kremlin on Saturday and later spoke to Zelenskiy, Bennett`s spokesperson said. "We continue dialogue," Zelenskiy tweeted after the call. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson issued a six-point plan to respond to Russia`s invasion ahead of meetings with leaders from Canada, the Netherlands and Central Europe in London next week. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan is expected to talk with Putin on Sunday. Turkey, a NATO member, shares a maritime border with Ukraine and Russia in the Black Sea. Ukrainian negotiators said a third round of talks with Russia on a ceasefire would go ahead on Monday, although Moscow was less definitive. FIERCE FIGHTING Russia`s Defence Ministry said its forces were carrying out a wide-ranging offensive in Ukraine and had taken several towns and villages, Russian news agency Interfax said. Ukraine`s military said armed forces "are fighting fiercely to liberate Ukrainian cities from Russian occupiers," counter-attacking in some areas and disrupting communications. The general staff of Ukraine`s armed forces said the military shot down two Russian planes and five helicopters on Saturday and also carried out air strikes against 15 motorized brigades. Reuters had no way to corroborate the claim. In Kherson, southern Ukraine, the only regional capital to have changed hands since the invasion, several thousand people demonstrated on its main square on Saturday, chanting "Kherson is Ukraine" and demanding Russian forces withdraw. Eyewitnesses cited by Interfax said Russian troops fired automatic rifles into the air in an unsuccessful attempt to disperse the crowd and later left. Concerns over nuclear dangers remained after Russia seized Ukraine`s Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, with a top U.S. official saying on Friday that Russian troops were 20 miles (32 km) from Ukraine`s second largest nuclear facility. Russia was warning the EU and NATO again to stop the "pumping of state-of-the-art weapons systems" into Kyiv, foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said, according to RIA. Putin, in one of several decrees signed on Saturday, also gave his government two days to draw up a list of nations engaged in "unfriendly acts" towards Russia, its news agencies reported. VISA, MASTERCARD EXIT The International Monetary Fund warned the conflict would have a "severe impact" on the global economy, driving up energy and grain prices. It said it would weigh Kyiv`s request for $1.4 billion in emergency financing as early as next week. Many Russians, reeling from a 30% fall in the rouble`s value, money transfer curbs and the exit of a growing number of Western companies, have expressed fear for their economic future. Both Visa and Mastercard on Saturday said their credit card operations would be suspended in Russia. Elon Musk promised to deliver more Starlink satellite internet terminals to Ukraine next week, Zelenskiy said on Saturday, adding he had spoken to the SpaceX chief executive. That could help shore up Ukraine`s internet access but also poses potential security risks, experts say. 'HELP US IF YOU CAN' Heavy shelling was heard in the background as residents of Volnovakha tried to flee the fighting. "Help us if you can, we all want to live, we have kids, husbands, we are mothers and fathers, we are also people," said one local, Larisa. "Where shall I go? What`s on me and a bag of things is all I got. That`s all I have." Blinken, following a meeting in Brussels of counterparts from NATO, the G7 and the European Union, met refugees staying in a disused shopping mall in Poland, which has taken in the vast majority of the Ukrainians forced to flee their country. Ksenia Tymofeeva, 41, worked in a bank in Kyiv until she fled two days ago, leaving behind her husband, also a bank worker, who stayed to fight the Russian invaders. "He doesn`t have any military experience, but it`s our homeland," she said at the site near the Poland-Ukraine border. More refugees crossed into Moldova, Blinken's next stop. The World Health Organization said 249 civilians had been killed so far and 553 injured as of March 3. It put the number of refugees at 1.2 million and said another 160,000 people had been internally displaced. "The human cost is likely much higher as access and security challenges make it difficult to verify the actual number of deaths and injuries," it said in a statement.

Russia-Ukraine crisis: Ukrainian refugees near 1.5 million as Russian assault enters 11th day

The Western media's coverage of the Ukraine’s refugee crisis has exposed its double standards.

About 470,000 foreign nationals, including students and migrant workers, are stranded in Ukraine and neighbouring countries should grant them refugee if they try to flee, the UN&nbsp;migration agency said on Tuesday.

"We appeal to neighbouring countries to ensure that protection and shelter and access to territory is provided to all," Safa Msehli, a spokesperson for the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), told a briefing.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-western-medias-racist-reportage-on-ukrainian-refugees-457644/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The IOM has received requests from states in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa asking for help for their nationals trying to leave Ukraine and the agency is working on a coordinated response, Msehli said. So far, 6,000 foreign nationals have managed to flee to Slovakia and Moldova, she added.

Several have shared videos and testimonies on social media, denouncing discrimination at train stations and border posts.

More than 660,000 people have fled Ukraine to neighbouring countries since Russia launched its invasion last week, the UN refugee agency said on Tuesday. That includes hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians, mostly women and children, as well as third country nationals.

Netizens have pointed out the double standard, noting that while the toll of war may be similar in the respective conflicts, the media treatment is not.

Many also drew a comparison between Europe's welcoming of Ukrainian refugees and the influx of Syrians, Iraqis and Afghans, which was declared a "migrant crisis".

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-new-refugee-crisis-as-russia-attacks-ukraine-thousands-flee-the-chaos-456411">A new 'refugee crisis': As Russia attacks Ukraine, thousands flee the chaos</a>

"This isn't a place, with all due respect, you know, like Iraq or Afghanistan that has seen conflict raging for decades," said Charlie D'Agata of US network CBS News.

"This is a relatively civilised, relatively European, I have to choose those words carefully too -- city where you wouldn't expect that or hope it is going to happen."

A day later, after much online furore, D'Agata apologised for his "poor choice of words".

Meanwhile, journalist Philippe Corbe said,&nbsp;"We are not talking about Syrians fleeing the bombardment of the Syrian regime, supported by Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;We are talking about Europeans who are leaving in their cars, that look like our cars... and who are just trying to save their lives."

These are just&nbsp;of many remarks on reputable media outlets drawing a line between the conflict unfolding in Ukraine and those in other parts of the world.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-lifts-visa-requirements-for-foreigners-who-want-to-fight-against-russia-457756">Ukraine lifts visa requirements for foreigners willing to fight against Russia</a>

'Racist coverage'

The Arab and Middle Eastern Journalists' Association condemned "examples of racist news coverage that ascribes more importance to some victims of war than others".

"This type of commentary reflects the pervasive mentality in Western journalism of normalising tragedy in parts of the world such as the Middle East, Africa, South Asia and Latin America."

Political scientist Ziad Majed said that, while there was "magnificent solidarity" from the world over the Ukraine conflict, it also revealed a "shocking distinction".

The discrepancies in media treatment revealed the "dehumanisation of refugees from the Middle East", said Majed, a professor at the American University of Paris.

"When we hear some commentators speaking about 'people like us', this suggests that those coming from Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan or Africa are not (like them)".

For Syrians, the disparity in media treatment is particularly striking as Russia launched a bloody intervention to prop up Bashar al-Assad's regime more than six years ago.

Before the war in Ukraine, Majed said, Syrian territory served as a "laboratory" for the Russian army, on which it "tested its arsenal and tactics".

The African Union (AU) said on Monday that it was disturbed by reports that African citizens in Ukraine are being refused the right to cross borders to safety as they try to flee the conflict in Ukraine.

Cities under siege across Ukraine are home to tens of thousands of African students studying medicine, engineering and military affairs. Morocco, Nigeria and Egypt are among the top 10 countries with foreign students in Ukraine, together supplying over 16,000 students, according to the education ministry.&nbsp;

What was meant to be a cheaper alternative to studying in Western Europe or the United States has turned overnight into a war zone as Russian tanks, planes and ships launch the biggest European invasion of another nation since World War Two.

With flights grounded, African governments thousands of miles away are struggling to support their students.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Western media's coverage of the Ukraine’s refugee crisis has exposed its double standards. About 470,000 foreign nationals, including students and migrant workers, are stranded in Ukraine and neighbouring countries should grant them refugee if they try to flee, the UN migration agency said on Tuesday.

The Western media's coverage of the Ukraine’s refugee crisis has exposed its double standards. About 470,000 foreign nationals, including students and migrant workers, are stranded in Ukraine and neighbouring countries should grant them refugee if they try to flee, the UN migration agency said on Tuesday. "We appeal to neighbouring countries to ensure that protection and shelter and access to territory is provided to all," Safa Msehli, a spokesperson for the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), told a briefing. The IOM has received requests from states in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa asking for help for their nationals trying to leave Ukraine and the agency is working on a coordinated response, Msehli said. So far, 6,000 foreign nationals have managed to flee to Slovakia and Moldova, she added. Several have shared videos and testimonies on social media, denouncing discrimination at train stations and border posts. More than 660,000 people have fled Ukraine to neighbouring countries since Russia launched its invasion last week, the UN refugee agency said on Tuesday. That includes hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians, mostly women and children, as well as third country nationals. Netizens have pointed out the double standard, noting that while the toll of war may be similar in the respective conflicts, the media treatment is not. Many also drew a comparison between Europe's welcoming of Ukrainian refugees and the influx of Syrians, Iraqis and Afghans, which was declared a "migrant crisis". Also see | A new 'refugee crisis': As Russia attacks Ukraine, thousands flee the chaos "This isn't a place, with all due respect, you know, like Iraq or Afghanistan that has seen conflict raging for decades," said Charlie D'Agata of US network CBS News. "This is a relatively civilised, relatively European, I have to choose those words carefully too -- city where you wouldn't expect that or hope it is going to happen." A day later, after much online furore, D'Agata apologised for his "poor choice of words". Meanwhile, journalist Philippe Corbe said, "We are not talking about Syrians fleeing the bombardment of the Syrian regime, supported by Vladimir Putin. We are talking about Europeans who are leaving in their cars, that look like our cars... and who are just trying to save their lives." These are just of many remarks on reputable media outlets drawing a line between the conflict unfolding in Ukraine and those in other parts of the world. Also read | Ukraine lifts visa requirements for foreigners willing to fight against Russia 'Racist coverage' The Arab and Middle Eastern Journalists' Association condemned "examples of racist news coverage that ascribes more importance to some victims of war than others". "This type of commentary reflects the pervasive mentality in Western journalism of normalising tragedy in parts of the world such as the Middle East, Africa, South Asia and Latin America." Political scientist Ziad Majed said that, while there was "magnificent solidarity" from the world over the Ukraine conflict, it also revealed a "shocking distinction". The discrepancies in media treatment revealed the "dehumanisation of refugees from the Middle East", said Majed, a professor at the American University of Paris. "When we hear some commentators speaking about 'people like us', this suggests that those coming from Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan or Africa are not (like them)". For Syrians, the disparity in media treatment is particularly striking as Russia launched a bloody intervention to prop up Bashar al-Assad's regime more than six years ago. Before the war in Ukraine, Majed said, Syrian territory served as a "laboratory" for the Russian army, on which it "tested its arsenal and tactics". The African Union (AU) said on Monday that it was disturbed by reports that African citizens in Ukraine are being refused the right to cross borders to safety as they try to flee the conflict in Ukraine. Cities under siege across Ukraine are home to tens of thousands of African students studying medicine, engineering and military affairs. Morocco, Nigeria and Egypt are among the top 10 countries with foreign students in Ukraine, together supplying over 16,000 students, according to the education ministry. What was meant to be a cheaper alternative to studying in Western Europe or the United States has turned overnight into a war zone as Russian tanks, planes and ships launch the biggest European invasion of another nation since World War Two. With flights grounded, African governments thousands of miles away are struggling to support their students. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine’s refugee crisis exposes Western media's hypocrisy