<p><strong>Backdrop &nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The conflict in Ukraine has rolled over to fourth week of devastation, resulting in over three million refugees, numerous military and civilian casualties, and intermittent reconciliatory tones of hopeful dialogue, alternated with rhetoric from opposing sides to continue fighting. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the West continues to give standing ovations to President Zelensky's emotional speeches and responds with a package of military hardware and funds, it is pouring fuel to the fire by prolonging global agony and encouraging Ukrainians to fight to the death in order to weaken Russia. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>While NATO can claim that Ukraine is not part of it; hence it is not obligated to join fight against Russia through ‘No Fly Zone’ as repeatedly requested by Zelensky, risking the potential to trigger Third World War/Nuclear war, but NATO is very much part of the conflict through economic war, information war, diplomatic war, political war and other instruments of non-contact warfare. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Big power contest continues with no concern for humanitarian disaster &nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Any offensive into another sovereign country has disastrous consequences for the people and must be condemned, whether it’s current Russian offensive in Ukraine or earlier NATO invasions in Iraq and other parts of MENA. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>With few security guarantees, this was avoidable, but the big power contest continues to spiral it, with display of heroics of President Zelensky, failing to read the extent, depth, and impact of Western support and President Putin's resolve, least realising that the nationalism and his peoples resolve is being used as an instrument to prolong an unwinnable, proxy war, leading his country to disaster. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The war of narrative seems getting dangerous with references to nuclear, biological and chemical dimensions in heated exchanges/allegations. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>How has battlefield ‘Ukraine’ shaped up after three weeks? &nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>After three weeks, the shaping of battlefield by Russians seems to make strategic sense, but at a very heavy cost, which is increasing consistently. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian main offensive is towards Kyiv, which is the Centre of &nbsp;Gravity to achieve political objective of imposing no-NATO diktat on its political leadership or force a regime change, through the shortest route from Belarus. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The complete isolation of Kyiv is yet to be achieved and the political consolidation is not in sight. Given the spirit of nationalism among Ukrainians, stoked by Zelensky's sentimental appeals and bolstered by western information warfare, Russians need to moderate their political objective from regime change to imposing a no-NATO agreement with Zelensky, because any pro-Russian puppet regime, even if imposed, is unlikely to survive. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian military aim to demilitarise Ukrainian military to ensure that Ukraine cannot be used as a launchpad by NATO to threaten security of Russia, has been partially achieved by extensive air and missile strikes to neutralise air defence capability and air assets to achieve favourable air situation, pulverising military targets, claiming to have destroyed most of them, including air fields and military installations in Ukraine. It is increasingly capturing strategic installations to step up pressure on Zelensky. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The offensive from South is aimed at cutting off Ukrainian access to Black Sea and Sea of Azov by securing a permanent land corridor from Russia to Crimea with an end-state of landlocked Ukraine. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russians have been able to achieve most of the corridor except Odessa, with intense fighting in townships. The offensive from the East is aimed at liberation of complete Luhansk and Donetsk regions, where intense fighting continues despite initial gains. &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine’s strong resolve to resist Russian offensive under leadership of President Zelensky, has been noteworthy, having deliberately prepared for the conflict. To overcome the asymmetry in military asset holdings, the Ukrainian force deployed smartly in densely populated areas to fight pitched battles in townships, despite losing air cover in the early phases of the conflict. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The strategy is to deploy military assets in civilian areas, turn towns into fortresses, and residential areas into pillboxes, incite mercenaries and civilians to fight as part of the war machine, launch sniper attacks, ambushes, small team operations, drone attacks on softer convoys, and provoke Russians to target residential areas in order to gain propaganda advantage from civilian casualties through superior information warfare, backed by the west to demonise President Putin. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>With adoption of urban insurgency model, the war has thus morphed from conventional to hybrid war with both sides planning to induct more non-state actors. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian strategy seems to have succeeded in delaying Russian operations and placing Russia in an awkward position of having to choose between fighting in populated, built up areas, which is cost prohibitive in terms of human and equipment casualties in favour of defender, or isolating, bombarding townships, residential areas alleged to house military assets, disrupting essential services, and pressuring Zelensky, at the cost of risking international condemnation. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russians appear to have selected the latter option, extending the range of air strikes to western Ukraine which is the lifeline for assistance from West including military hardware. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Are actions by West helping Ukraine? &nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>US and Western allies are claiming to be helping Ukraine through financial and diplomatic sanctions on Russia and military hardware support to Ukraine of the type (smaller calibre) which can improve staying power of Ukrainian fighters, and induce long term insurgency in Europe, even if negotiations reach some conclusion in due course. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The aim is to permanently weaken Russia by weaponising Ukrainian nationalism, posing Zelensky as hero, to continue fighting with their proxy support. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>EU’s support to refugees from Ukraine is the only positive humanitarian support, where UK and US seem to be shying. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Decoding the future &nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>If the war gets prolonged further, Ukraine will be destroyed physically, Russia will suffer punitive financial cost, EU will lose long lasting peace and energy security, and the entire world will suffer economically. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainians and Russian residents and soldiers will bear the brunt of the consequences. While the EU is presenting a bold, united front with the US in order to weaken Russia, it has its limits, up to the point when its gas supply is choked, with risk of insurgency at its doorsteps. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the short term, the US may appear to benefit from Russia's weakness by increasing arms and oil exports, but in the long run, it will lose credibility and reliability globally. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>China will emerge wiser, learning from Russian experience and assessing the risk profile of the US, whose leadership is fixated on the wrong adversary and unable to combat the real competitor in the Indo-Pacific. Diversion of focus from China to Russia will speed up US decline as superpower, faster than what its strategists anticipate. &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p>Sanctions will eventually lose their lustre, as more sanctions may lead non-western countries to seek an alternative financial system that is not dependent on the West, jeopardising their long-term interests. The world is more intertwined than it was previously, and with the economic fulcrum shifting from the West to the Indo-Pacific, a de-dollarised financial system could be the most significant future risk to the US. &nbsp;</p>

<p>For European security, a neutral Ukraine is the best option. Ukraine has never been accepted into NATO and is unlikely to be welcomed in the future, as it has never met the basic criteria of a peaceful internal and exterior situation, having been involved in conflicts/disturbances in both dimensions. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is preferable if Ukraine and Russia face reality as soon as possible and resolve the issue through direct dialogue, putting rhetoric, egos, and sentiments aside. It might be a better idea for the West, too, to encourage a ceasefire through discussions, addressing the legitimate security interests of all parties, rather than adding fuel to the fire by imposing more sanctions or providing more hardware support to prolong the war.</p>

<p><strong><em>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) </em></strong></p>


Backdrop The conflict in Ukraine has rolled over to fourth week of devastation, resulting in over three million refugees, numerous military and civilian casualties, and intermittent reconciliatory tones of hopeful dialogue, alternated with rhetoric from opposing sides to continue fighting.

Backdrop The conflict in Ukraine has rolled over to fourth week of devastation, resulting in over three million refugees, numerous military and civilian casualties, and intermittent reconciliatory tones of hopeful dialogue, alternated with rhetoric from opposing sides to continue fighting. While the West continues to give standing ovations to President Zelensky's emotional speeches and responds with a package of military hardware and funds, it is pouring fuel to the fire by prolonging global agony and encouraging Ukrainians to fight to the death in order to weaken Russia. While NATO can claim that Ukraine is not part of it; hence it is not obligated to join fight against Russia through ‘No Fly Zone’ as repeatedly requested by Zelensky, risking the potential to trigger Third World War/Nuclear war, but NATO is very much part of the conflict through economic war, information war, diplomatic war, political war and other instruments of non-contact warfare. Big power contest continues with no concern for humanitarian disaster Any offensive into another sovereign country has disastrous consequences for the people and must be condemned, whether it’s current Russian offensive in Ukraine or earlier NATO invasions in Iraq and other parts of MENA. With few security guarantees, this was avoidable, but the big power contest continues to spiral it, with display of heroics of President Zelensky, failing to read the extent, depth, and impact of Western support and President Putin's resolve, least realising that the nationalism and his peoples resolve is being used as an instrument to prolong an unwinnable, proxy war, leading his country to disaster. The war of narrative seems getting dangerous with references to nuclear, biological and chemical dimensions in heated exchanges/allegations. How has battlefield ‘Ukraine’ shaped up after three weeks? After three weeks, the shaping of battlefield by Russians seems to make strategic sense, but at a very heavy cost, which is increasing consistently. Russian main offensive is towards Kyiv, which is the Centre of Gravity to achieve political objective of imposing no-NATO diktat on its political leadership or force a regime change, through the shortest route from Belarus. The complete isolation of Kyiv is yet to be achieved and the political consolidation is not in sight. Given the spirit of nationalism among Ukrainians, stoked by Zelensky's sentimental appeals and bolstered by western information warfare, Russians need to moderate their political objective from regime change to imposing a no-NATO agreement with Zelensky, because any pro-Russian puppet regime, even if imposed, is unlikely to survive. The Russian military aim to demilitarise Ukrainian military to ensure that Ukraine cannot be used as a launchpad by NATO to threaten security of Russia, has been partially achieved by extensive air and missile strikes to neutralise air defence capability and air assets to achieve favourable air situation, pulverising military targets, claiming to have destroyed most of them, including air fields and military installations in Ukraine. It is increasingly capturing strategic installations to step up pressure on Zelensky. The offensive from South is aimed at cutting off Ukrainian access to Black Sea and Sea of Azov by securing a permanent land corridor from Russia to Crimea with an end-state of landlocked Ukraine. Russians have been able to achieve most of the corridor except Odessa, with intense fighting in townships. The offensive from the East is aimed at liberation of complete Luhansk and Donetsk regions, where intense fighting continues despite initial gains. Ukraine’s strong resolve to resist Russian offensive under leadership of President Zelensky, has been noteworthy, having deliberately prepared for the conflict. To overcome the asymmetry in military asset holdings, the Ukrainian force deployed smartly in densely populated areas to fight pitched battles in townships, despite losing air cover in the early phases of the conflict. The strategy is to deploy military assets in civilian areas, turn towns into fortresses, and residential areas into pillboxes, incite mercenaries and civilians to fight as part of the war machine, launch sniper attacks, ambushes, small team operations, drone attacks on softer convoys, and provoke Russians to target residential areas in order to gain propaganda advantage from civilian casualties through superior information warfare, backed by the west to demonise President Putin. With adoption of urban insurgency model, the war has thus morphed from conventional to hybrid war with both sides planning to induct more non-state actors. The Ukrainian strategy seems to have succeeded in delaying Russian operations and placing Russia in an awkward position of having to choose between fighting in populated, built up areas, which is cost prohibitive in terms of human and equipment casualties in favour of defender, or isolating, bombarding townships, residential areas alleged to house military assets, disrupting essential services, and pressuring Zelensky, at the cost of risking international condemnation. The Russians appear to have selected the latter option, extending the range of air strikes to western Ukraine which is the lifeline for assistance from West including military hardware. Are actions by West helping Ukraine? US and Western allies are claiming to be helping Ukraine through financial and diplomatic sanctions on Russia and military hardware support to Ukraine of the type (smaller calibre) which can improve staying power of Ukrainian fighters, and induce long term insurgency in Europe, even if negotiations reach some conclusion in due course. The aim is to permanently weaken Russia by weaponising Ukrainian nationalism, posing Zelensky as hero, to continue fighting with their proxy support. EU’s support to refugees from Ukraine is the only positive humanitarian support, where UK and US seem to be shying. Decoding the future If the war gets prolonged further, Ukraine will be destroyed physically, Russia will suffer punitive financial cost, EU will lose long lasting peace and energy security, and the entire world will suffer economically. Ukrainians and Russian residents and soldiers will bear the brunt of the consequences. While the EU is presenting a bold, united front with the US in order to weaken Russia, it has its limits, up to the point when its gas supply is choked, with risk of insurgency at its doorsteps. In the short term, the US may appear to benefit from Russia's weakness by increasing arms and oil exports, but in the long run, it will lose credibility and reliability globally. China will emerge wiser, learning from Russian experience and assessing the risk profile of the US, whose leadership is fixated on the wrong adversary and unable to combat the real competitor in the Indo-Pacific. Diversion of focus from China to Russia will speed up US decline as superpower, faster than what its strategists anticipate. Sanctions will eventually lose their lustre, as more sanctions may lead non-western countries to seek an alternative financial system that is not dependent on the West, jeopardising their long-term interests. The world is more intertwined than it was previously, and with the economic fulcrum shifting from the West to the Indo-Pacific, a de-dollarised financial system could be the most significant future risk to the US. For European security, a neutral Ukraine is the best option. Ukraine has never been accepted into NATO and is unlikely to be welcomed in the future, as it has never met the basic criteria of a peaceful internal and exterior situation, having been involved in conflicts/disturbances in both dimensions. It is preferable if Ukraine and Russia face reality as soon as possible and resolve the issue through direct dialogue, putting rhetoric, egos, and sentiments aside. It might be a better idea for the West, too, to encourage a ceasefire through discussions, addressing the legitimate security interests of all parties, rather than adding fuel to the fire by imposing more sanctions or providing more hardware support to prolong the war. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion: Is the West weaponising Ukrainian nationalism to checkmate Russia?  

<p><em><strong>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.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p>A third top Russian general seems to have been killed by Ukrainian defenders, the Armed Forces of Ukraine claimed on Friday. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russia-Ukraine conflict has been intensifying with every hour. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a tweet, Ukraine's military said that they killed Russian Maj Gen Andrey Kolesnikov, who is believed to be the commander of the 29th Combined Arms Army. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-kamala-harris-faces-flak-for-laughing-on-question-over-ukrainian-refugees-fate-461512">Harris faces flak for laughing on question over Ukrainian refugees’ fate</a></strong></p>

<p>While announcing the general's purported death, Ukraine's armed forces on Twitter, said, "The Russian invaders continue to lose their officers in the war against Ukraine." &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="uk">Російські окупанти продовжують втрачати у війні проти України своїх офіцерів. ЗСУ вдалося ліквідувати генерал-майора Андрія Колеснікова, командувача Східного військового округу. <a href="https://t.co/CEBDneqslz">pic.twitter.com/CEBDneqslz</a></p>
— 🇺🇦Armed Forces (@ArmedForcesUkr) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArmedForcesUkr/status/1502294425992585225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>On Friday, several journalists also reported that anonymous Western officials have confirmed that a third Russian major general has been killed during Russia's invasion of Ukraine. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, a Ukrainian sniper had reportedly killed one of the Russia's top generals, said media reports. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-conflict-russia-violates-nuclear-safety-principles-in-ukraine-says-us-461477" hreflang="en">In conflict, Russia violates nuclear safety principles in Ukraine, says US</a></strong></p>

<p>In an intense battle between Russian and Ukrainian forces, Maj Gen Andrey Sukhovetsky, deputy commander, 41st Combined Arms Army of Russia's Central Military District, was reportedly killed, as per a Daily Mail report. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sukhovetsky was killed "by a sniper," the report said citing a military source. &nbsp;</p>

<p>One more Russian general was allegedly killed earlier by Ukrainian forces. The invasion began on February 24.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


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

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. A third top Russian general seems to have been killed by Ukrainian defenders, the Armed Forces of Ukraine claimed on Friday. The Russia-Ukraine conflict has been intensifying with every hour. In a tweet, Ukraine's military said that they killed Russian Maj Gen Andrey Kolesnikov, who is believed to be the commander of the 29th Combined Arms Army. Also Read: Harris faces flak for laughing on question over Ukrainian refugees’ fate While announcing the general's purported death, Ukraine's armed forces on Twitter, said, "The Russian invaders continue to lose their officers in the war against Ukraine." Російські окупанти продовжують втрачати у війні проти України своїх офіцерів. ЗСУ вдалося ліквідувати генерал-майора Андрія Колеснікова, командувача Східного військового округу. pic.twitter.com/CEBDneqslz — 🇺🇦Armed Forces (@ArmedForcesUkr) March 11, 2022 × On Friday, several journalists also reported that anonymous Western officials have confirmed that a third Russian major general has been killed during Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Earlier, a Ukrainian sniper had reportedly killed one of the Russia's top generals, said media reports. Also Read: In conflict, Russia violates nuclear safety principles in Ukraine, says US In an intense battle between Russian and Ukrainian forces, Maj Gen Andrey Sukhovetsky, deputy commander, 41st Combined Arms Army of Russia's Central Military District, was reportedly killed, as per a Daily Mail report. Sukhovetsky was killed "by a sniper," the report said citing a military source. One more Russian general was allegedly killed earlier by Ukrainian forces. The invasion began on February 24. (With inputs from agencies)

As conflict intensifies, Ukrainian defenders claim to kill Russia’s third general

<p>To allow civilians to leave, Russia has proposed the establishment of humanitarian corridors in five Ukrainian cities. It now requires Ukrainian approval. &nbsp;</p>

<p>It includes the capital, Kyiv. The process may begin from 9 am local time (0700 GMT) on Tuesday, Russian news agencies reported. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Most of these corridors travel through Russia or Belarus, which has been rejected by the Ukrainian authorities earlier. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-allies-plan-ways-to-help-establish-support-a-ukrainian-government-in-exile-459791" hreflang="en">US, allies plan ways to help establish, support a Ukrainian government-in-exile</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Civilians, who want to leave the cities of Chernigov, Kyiv and Kharkiv, would have to travel to Russia or Belarus, Interfax news agency reported. It cited a statement by a Russian committee charged with humanitarian coordination in Ukraine. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, such proposals to evacuate Ukrainian citizens have been rejected by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the people, who want to leave the cities of Sumy and Mariupol, would be given a choice of passage to Russia or to Ukrainian cities,&nbsp;Poltava and Zaporizhia, respectively, Interfax quoted the statement as saying. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-poutine-not-putin-classic-delicacy-falls-victim-to-russia-ukraine-conflict-goes-off-menu-459877" hreflang="en">It’s Poutine, not Putin: Classic delicacy falls victim to Russia-Ukraine conflict, goes off menu</a></strong></p>

<p>Ukraine has been given time until 3 am Moscow time (0000 GMT) to agree to the terms, Interfax said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, the Ukrainian ambassador to the United Nations Sergiy Kyslytsya told a UN Security Council meeting that Russia had "undermined arrangements" for humanitarian corridors on Tuesday by insisting all routes would go through Russia or Belarus. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;</p>


To allow civilians to leave, Russia has proposed the establishment of humanitarian corridors in five Ukrainian cities. It now requires Ukrainian approval. It includes the capital, Kyiv.

To allow civilians to leave, Russia has proposed the establishment of humanitarian corridors in five Ukrainian cities. It now requires Ukrainian approval. It includes the capital, Kyiv. The process may begin from 9 am local time (0700 GMT) on Tuesday, Russian news agencies reported. Most of these corridors travel through Russia or Belarus, which has been rejected by the Ukrainian authorities earlier. Also Read: US, allies plan ways to help establish, support a Ukrainian government-in-exile Civilians, who want to leave the cities of Chernigov, Kyiv and Kharkiv, would have to travel to Russia or Belarus, Interfax news agency reported. It cited a statement by a Russian committee charged with humanitarian coordination in Ukraine. Earlier, such proposals to evacuate Ukrainian citizens have been rejected by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. However, the people, who want to leave the cities of Sumy and Mariupol, would be given a choice of passage to Russia or to Ukrainian cities, Poltava and Zaporizhia, respectively, Interfax quoted the statement as saying. Also Read: It’s Poutine, not Putin: Classic delicacy falls victim to Russia-Ukraine conflict, goes off menu Ukraine has been given time until 3 am Moscow time (0000 GMT) to agree to the terms, Interfax said. Earlier, the Ukrainian ambassador to the United Nations Sergiy Kyslytsya told a UN Security Council meeting that Russia had "undermined arrangements" for humanitarian corridors on Tuesday by insisting all routes would go through Russia or Belarus. (With inputs from agencies)

To allow civilians to leave, Russia proposes humanitarian corridors in five Ukrainian cities, say reports

<p>At a time when Russian forces are advancing unabatedly with the help of heavy bombardment, several Ukrainian citizens have been forced to take refuge in bomb shelters. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>And many citizens of the country, who are abroad for various reasons, are going through a difficult phase of life as they are worried about their families and friends back home. &nbsp;</p>

<p>One such example is the 20 Ukrainian crew members of Empress Cordelia Cruise, which includes the captain of the ship. The vessel is sailing from Mumbai on Saturday. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-icj-ukraine-and-russia-to-fight-again-but-over-genocide-claim-459711">At ICJ, Ukraine and Russia to fight again but over ‘genocide claim’ &nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>Natalie, the lead performer of the ship, is worried about her parents, who live close to Kyiv. They have also taken shelter in a bunker to escape bombardment. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even in this tense situation, all the crew members have been performing to the best of their abilities. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In all, there are over 600 crew members of different ethnicities onboard the ship. The Ukrainian crew members are working along with Russian staff too as one big family. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ukrainian-girl-sings-let-it-go-moves-hearts-from-kyivs-bomb-shelter-459765" hreflang="en">Watch: Ukrainian girl sings 'Let It Go', moves hearts from Kyiv’s bomb shelter</a></strong></p>

<p>Before the ship set sail, the crew members had a group lunch and a minute of silence for families, who are affected.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We are all one big family and are staying together. People are worried because the situation is serious in Ukraine but it is the support that is being provided by the company that is helping all of us,” said the captain of the cruise, Denis Korop. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cordelia Cruise CEO Jargon Bailom said that they are ensuring that these crew members stay connected with their families by arranging calls on a daily basis and any kind of monetary help that is possible. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


At a time when Russian forces are advancing unabatedly with the help of heavy bombardment, several Ukrainian citizens have been forced to take refuge in bomb shelters.

At a time when Russian forces are advancing unabatedly with the help of heavy bombardment, several Ukrainian citizens have been forced to take refuge in bomb shelters. And many citizens of the country, who are abroad for various reasons, are going through a difficult phase of life as they are worried about their families and friends back home. One such example is the 20 Ukrainian crew members of Empress Cordelia Cruise, which includes the captain of the ship. The vessel is sailing from Mumbai on Saturday. Also Read: At ICJ, Ukraine and Russia to fight again but over ‘genocide claim’ Natalie, the lead performer of the ship, is worried about her parents, who live close to Kyiv. They have also taken shelter in a bunker to escape bombardment. Even in this tense situation, all the crew members have been performing to the best of their abilities. In all, there are over 600 crew members of different ethnicities onboard the ship. The Ukrainian crew members are working along with Russian staff too as one big family. Also Read | Watch: Ukrainian girl sings 'Let It Go', moves hearts from Kyiv’s bomb shelter Before the ship set sail, the crew members had a group lunch and a minute of silence for families, who are affected. “We are all one big family and are staying together. People are worried because the situation is serious in Ukraine but it is the support that is being provided by the company that is helping all of us,” said the captain of the cruise, Denis Korop. Cordelia Cruise CEO Jargon Bailom said that they are ensuring that these crew members stay connected with their families by arranging calls on a daily basis and any kind of monetary help that is possible. (With inputs from agencies)

In tough times, Ukrainian crew members on board Empress Cordelia Cruise in India keep morale high

<p>The hit song 'Let It Go' from the animated film ‘Frozen’ got a new meaning recently. It was sung by a little girl in a bomb shelter in Kyiv. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The performance filled people with tears and moved several people in and out of the shelter. &nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes as Ukrainian forces are fight off a Russian invasion. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The video of the performance of girl, named Amelia, has gone viral and has garnered over 1.9 million views on Twitter. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-icj-ukraine-and-russia-to-fight-again-but-over-genocide-claim-459711">At ICJ, Ukraine and Russia to fight again but over ‘genocide claim’ &nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>Numerous people have shared, commented and liked the clip across social media platforms. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In the clip, Amelia performs a version of 'Let It Go' for people taking shelter in the bunker. Some can be seen lying on the floor, while others stand or sit around Amelia and also record her performance. In the end, the crowd erupts in cheers and applause. &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Heartbreaking...<br />
Little Ukrainian girl sings "let it go" in a bomb bunker full of children hiding <a href="https://t.co/k8fJIokkqC">pic.twitter.com/k8fJIokkqC</a></p>
— 🥀_Imposter_🕸️ (@Imposter_Edits) <a href="https://twitter.com/Imposter_Edits/status/1500614117966680064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>It was first posted on Facebook on Thursday by Marta Smekhova, who says she filmed it with the permission of the girl's mother. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-allow-safe-passage-to-civilians-un-chief-asks-to-halt-fighting-in-ukraine-459700">To allow safe passage to civilians, UN chief asks to halt fighting in Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>"From the first word in the [bomb shelter] came complete silence... everyone put their business aside and listen[ed] to a song by this girl who was just beaming light... even men couldn't hold back the tears," Smekhova wrote. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Neither the location of the shelter in Kyiv nor the date when the video was taken is known. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;</p>


The hit song 'Let It Go' from the animated film ‘Frozen’ got a new meaning recently. It was sung by a little girl in a bomb shelter in Kyiv. The performance filled people with tears and moved several people in and out of the shelter.

The hit song 'Let It Go' from the animated film ‘Frozen’ got a new meaning recently. It was sung by a little girl in a bomb shelter in Kyiv. The performance filled people with tears and moved several people in and out of the shelter. This comes as Ukrainian forces are fight off a Russian invasion. The video of the performance of girl, named Amelia, has gone viral and has garnered over 1.9 million views on Twitter. Also Read: At ICJ, Ukraine and Russia to fight again but over ‘genocide claim’ Numerous people have shared, commented and liked the clip across social media platforms. In the clip, Amelia performs a version of 'Let It Go' for people taking shelter in the bunker. Some can be seen lying on the floor, while others stand or sit around Amelia and also record her performance. In the end, the crowd erupts in cheers and applause. Heartbreaking... Little Ukrainian girl sings "let it go" in a bomb bunker full of children hiding pic.twitter.com/k8fJIokkqC — 🥀_Imposter_🕸️ (@Imposter_Edits) March 6, 2022 × It was first posted on Facebook on Thursday by Marta Smekhova, who says she filmed it with the permission of the girl's mother. Also Read: To allow safe passage to civilians, UN chief asks to halt fighting in Ukraine "From the first word in the [bomb shelter] came complete silence... everyone put their business aside and listen[ed] to a song by this girl who was just beaming light... even men couldn't hold back the tears," Smekhova wrote. Neither the location of the shelter in Kyiv nor the date when the video was taken is known. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Ukrainian girl sings 'Let It Go', moves hearts from Kyiv’s bomb shelter

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e9016fa7-2953-4179-82b1-4f22c7a13ddc}{129}" paraid="1282705370" >As Russia is advancing in Ukraine, the US and its allies have also started to plan about how to help establish and support a government-in-exile. &nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e9016fa7-2953-4179-82b1-4f22c7a13ddc}{200}" paraid="1537349407" >This government could direct guerrilla operations against Russian occupiers, as per several US and European officials. &nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e9016fa7-2953-4179-82b1-4f22c7a13ddc}{200}" paraid="1537349407" >This comes as the Ukraine is still longing for complete support from the US and its allies.</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e9016fa7-2953-4179-82b1-4f22c7a13ddc}{214}" paraid="162472957" >The United States has provided weapons to Ukraine's military. This equipment continues to flow into the country. It would be crucial for the success of an insurgent movement later, the officials said.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e9016fa7-2953-4179-82b1-4f22c7a13ddc}{214}" paraid="162472957" ><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-icj-ukraine-and-russia-to-fight-again-but-over-genocide-claim-459711">At ICJ, Ukraine and Russia to fight again but over ‘genocide claim’ &nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e9016fa7-2953-4179-82b1-4f22c7a13ddc}{228}" paraid="1526839219" >The Biden administration has asked Congress, which is infused with a rare bipartisan spirit in defense of Ukraine, to take up a $10 billion humanitarian aid and military package. It includes funding to replenish the stocks of weapons that have already been sent. &nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e9016fa7-2953-4179-82b1-4f22c7a13ddc}{242}" paraid="842332034" >If the United States and its allies choose to back an insurgency, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky would be the important force, officials said. &nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{092e1cc8-54ee-401f-8968-bc4d8bdd7b2c}{1}" paraid="1093303213" >He can be crucial in maintaining morale and rallying Ukrainians against the Russian rulers.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{092e1cc8-54ee-401f-8968-bc4d8bdd7b2c}{15}" paraid="361592826" ><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ukrainian-girl-sings-let-it-go-moves-hearts-from-kyivs-bomb-shelter-459765" hreflang="en">Watch: Ukrainian girl sings 'Let It Go', moves hearts from Kyiv’s bomb shelter</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{092e1cc8-54ee-401f-8968-bc4d8bdd7b2c}{15}" paraid="361592826" >The possible takeover of Kyiv by Russians seems to have prompted a flurry of planning at the State Department, Pentagon and other US agencies if the Zelensky government has to flee the capital. &nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{092e1cc8-54ee-401f-8968-bc4d8bdd7b2c}{29}" paraid="1648484426" >"We're doing contingency planning now for every possibility." It includes a scenario where Zelensky establishes a government-in-exile in Poland, said a US administration official on the condition of anonymity.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{092e1cc8-54ee-401f-8968-bc4d8bdd7b2c}{43}" paraid="1016223973" ><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


As Russia is advancing in Ukraine, the US and its allies have also started to plan about how to help establish and support a government-in-exile. This government could direct guerrilla operations against Russian occupiers, as per several US and European officials.

As Russia is advancing in Ukraine, the US and its allies have also started to plan about how to help establish and support a government-in-exile. This government could direct guerrilla operations against Russian occupiers, as per several US and European officials. This comes as the Ukraine is still longing for complete support from the US and its allies. The United States has provided weapons to Ukraine's military. This equipment continues to flow into the country. It would be crucial for the success of an insurgent movement later, the officials said. Also Read: At ICJ, Ukraine and Russia to fight again but over ‘genocide claim’ The Biden administration has asked Congress, which is infused with a rare bipartisan spirit in defense of Ukraine, to take up a $10 billion humanitarian aid and military package. It includes funding to replenish the stocks of weapons that have already been sent. If the United States and its allies choose to back an insurgency, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky would be the important force, officials said. He can be crucial in maintaining morale and rallying Ukrainians against the Russian rulers. Also Read | Watch: Ukrainian girl sings 'Let It Go', moves hearts from Kyiv’s bomb shelter The possible takeover of Kyiv by Russians seems to have prompted a flurry of planning at the State Department, Pentagon and other US agencies if the Zelensky government has to flee the capital. "We're doing contingency planning now for every possibility." It includes a scenario where Zelensky establishes a government-in-exile in Poland, said a US administration official on the condition of anonymity. (With inputs from agencies)

US, allies plan ways to help establish, support a Ukrainian government-in-exile

<p>UK government may hand over the seized properties of Russian elites to Ukrainian refugees. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab has made the suggestion recently while defending the UK’s response to Russian invasion of Ukraine. &nbsp;</p>

<p>On being asked whether Britain can seize properties owned by Russian oligarchs, Raab told LBC: “If we’ve got the evidence and the legal basis, then we’ll do it.” &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/weekend-special-who-is-a-russian-oligarch-heres-what-you-need-to-know-459198" hreflang="en">Weekend Special: Who is a Russian oligarch? Here's what you need to know</a></strong></p>

<p>When enquired about using these properties to house Ukrainian refugees, Raab replied: “Yes, absolutely. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The move has been called by the Liberal Democrats and argued for in the government reportedly by the housing secretary Michael Gove. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We are looking at everything in the round, it is a team effort across government, from the foreign and defence secretary through to Michael Gove and, of course, the prime minister is driving this very hard,” Raab said. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-intensifies-crackdown-on-fake-reports-blocks-twitter-facebook-459123">Russia intensifies crackdown on 'fake' reports, blocks Twitter, Facebook &nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>The individuals, who had faced sanctions, would not be allowed to repair their property without a licence, or rent or sell it, as per sources. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Raab said, “There has been a running commentary that the UK has somehow been slow – we’ve not been slow. We’ve been at the vanguard of taking action and, of course, what is really important is we act in concert with our allies, European, American and other NATO&nbsp;allies.” &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


UK government may hand over the seized properties of Russian elites to Ukrainian refugees. Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab has made the suggestion recently while defending the UK’s response to Russian invasion of Ukraine.

UK government may hand over the seized properties of Russian elites to Ukrainian refugees. Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab has made the suggestion recently while defending the UK’s response to Russian invasion of Ukraine. On being asked whether Britain can seize properties owned by Russian oligarchs, Raab told LBC: “If we’ve got the evidence and the legal basis, then we’ll do it.” Also Read: Weekend Special: Who is a Russian oligarch? Here's what you need to know When enquired about using these properties to house Ukrainian refugees, Raab replied: “Yes, absolutely. The move has been called by the Liberal Democrats and argued for in the government reportedly by the housing secretary Michael Gove. “We are looking at everything in the round, it is a team effort across government, from the foreign and defence secretary through to Michael Gove and, of course, the prime minister is driving this very hard,” Raab said. Also Read: Russia intensifies crackdown on 'fake' reports, blocks Twitter, Facebook The individuals, who had faced sanctions, would not be allowed to repair their property without a licence, or rent or sell it, as per sources. Raab said, “There has been a running commentary that the UK has somehow been slow – we’ve not been slow. We’ve been at the vanguard of taking action and, of course, what is really important is we act in concert with our allies, European, American and other NATO allies.” (With inputs from agencies)

UK government may hand over Russian oligarchs’ seized properties to Ukrainian refugees, says Raab  

<p><em><strong>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.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p>A Ukrainian sniper has reportedly killed one of the Russia's top generals recently, said media reports. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an intense battle between Russian and Ukrainian forces, Maj Gen Andrey Sukhovetsky, deputy commander, 41st Combined Arms Army of Russia's Central Military District, was reportedly killed, as per a Daily Mail report. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sukhovetsky was killed "by a sniper," the report said citing a military source. The funeral seems to have been planned for Saturday. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-shelling-sets-largest-nuclear-power-plant-in-europe-on-fire-says-ukraines-minister-458728">'Russian shelling sets largest nuclear power plant in Europe on fire'</a></strong></p>

<p>Although Russia's military has not confirmed the death, Sergei Chipilyov of the Union Airborne Forces Union of Russian Paratroopers has reacted to the development on social media. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"With great pain, we received the tragic news about the death of our friend, Major-General Andrey Aleksandrovich Sukhovetsky, in Ukraine during a special operation. We express our deepest condolences to his family," the post said, as per Newsweek. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/constructive-conversation-quad-leaders-discuss-ukraine-situation-458750">'Constructive conversation': Quad leaders discuss Ukraine situation</a></strong></p>

<p>Russia's Ministry of Defense has said that 498 troops have died and 1,600 have got injured in the week-long conflict. But the Ukrainian officials claim that nearly 9,000 Russian troops have been killed. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Sukhovestky was a decorated veteran. In his career, he participated twice in the Victory Parade in Moscow's Red Square and received two Orders of Courage, the Order of Military Merit, and the Medal of Courage. He had also received a commendation for his role in the annexation of Crimea. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


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. A Ukrainian sniper has reportedly killed one of the Russia's top generals recently, said media reports. In an intense battle between Russian and Ukrainian forces, Maj Gen Andrey Sukhovetsky, deputy commander, 41st Combined Arms Army of Russia's Central Military District, was reportedly killed, as per a Daily Mail report. Sukhovetsky was killed "by a sniper," the report said citing a military source. The funeral seems to have been planned for Saturday. Also Read: 'Russian shelling sets largest nuclear power plant in Europe on fire' Although Russia's military has not confirmed the death, Sergei Chipilyov of the Union Airborne Forces Union of Russian Paratroopers has reacted to the development on social media. "With great pain, we received the tragic news about the death of our friend, Major-General Andrey Aleksandrovich Sukhovetsky, in Ukraine during a special operation. We express our deepest condolences to his family," the post said, as per Newsweek. Also Read | 'Constructive conversation': Quad leaders discuss Ukraine situation Russia's Ministry of Defense has said that 498 troops have died and 1,600 have got injured in the week-long conflict. But the Ukrainian officials claim that nearly 9,000 Russian troops have been killed. Sukhovestky was a decorated veteran. In his career, he participated twice in the Victory Parade in Moscow's Red Square and received two Orders of Courage, the Order of Military Merit, and the Medal of Courage. He had also received a commendation for his role in the annexation of Crimea. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian sniper killed Russia's top general, say reports

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has displaced some one million people with millions more at risk. The European Union nations have been swift in their response to the Ukrainians crossing over this reaction of the European countries is now pushing millions of West-Asian refugees who are still waiting for protection and asylum for over a decade.

Europe's contradictory approach to Ukrainian and Syrian refugees?

The European Union is racing to offer protection to Ukrainian refugees, the commission laid out a new proposal for all member states this will now let Ukrainians stay and work in the block for next two years.

EU plans to grant Ukrainians right to stay for up to two years

<p>The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia seems to have spilled elsewhere too. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Ukrainian sailor made a failed attempt to sink a luxury yacht owned by his Russian boss Alexander Mijeev, who is the CEO of Rosoboronexport. The 55-year-old sailor was arrested on Saturday. &nbsp;</p>

<p>To sink the 156-foot vessel by flooding, Taras Ostapchuk, a ship engineer, reportedly opened valves in the engine room. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The yacht is estimated to be worth a whopping $7.7 million, as per The New York Post. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident happened when the yacht, Lady Anastasia, was docked at Mallorca in Spain, reported BBC. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nuclear-war-outbreaks-fear-grows-what-are-nuke-capabilities-of-russia-457686">Nuclear war outbreak’s fear grows. What are nuke capabilities of Russia? &nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>The Spain's Civil Guard arrested him on Saturday. When he appeared in court on Sunday, he told the judge that he did not regret his actions. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the Majorca Daily Bulletin, the Ukrainian, who worked on the vessel for 10 years, said, "I don't regret anything I've done and I would do it again." He said that his boss is "a criminal who sells weapons that kill the Ukrainian people."&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mijeev’s company exports Russian defence products, such as ships, weapons, tanks and fighting vehicles. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In court, Ostapchuk said that he acted after watching coverage of the invasion on television. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-using-brutal-cluster-explosives-vacuum-bombs-in-ukraine-say-rights-groups-ukraines-envoy-to-us-457658">'Russia using ‘brutal’ cluster explosives, vacuum bombs in Ukraine'</a></strong></p>

<p>"I watched the news about the war. There was a video of a helicopter attack on a building in Kyiv. The armaments used are produced by the yacht owner's company. They were attacking innocents," Ostapchuk told the judge. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia seems to have spilled elsewhere too. A Ukrainian sailor made a failed attempt to sink a luxury yacht owned by his Russian boss Alexander Mijeev, who is the CEO of Rosoboronexport.

The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia seems to have spilled elsewhere too. A Ukrainian sailor made a failed attempt to sink a luxury yacht owned by his Russian boss Alexander Mijeev, who is the CEO of Rosoboronexport. The 55-year-old sailor was arrested on Saturday. To sink the 156-foot vessel by flooding, Taras Ostapchuk, a ship engineer, reportedly opened valves in the engine room. The yacht is estimated to be worth a whopping $7.7 million, as per The New York Post. The incident happened when the yacht, Lady Anastasia, was docked at Mallorca in Spain, reported BBC. Also Read: Nuclear war outbreak’s fear grows. What are nuke capabilities of Russia? The Spain's Civil Guard arrested him on Saturday. When he appeared in court on Sunday, he told the judge that he did not regret his actions. As per the Majorca Daily Bulletin, the Ukrainian, who worked on the vessel for 10 years, said, "I don't regret anything I've done and I would do it again." He said that his boss is "a criminal who sells weapons that kill the Ukrainian people." Mijeev’s company exports Russian defence products, such as ships, weapons, tanks and fighting vehicles. In court, Ostapchuk said that he acted after watching coverage of the invasion on television. Also Read: 'Russia using ‘brutal’ cluster explosives, vacuum bombs in Ukraine' "I watched the news about the war. There was a video of a helicopter attack on a building in Kyiv. The armaments used are produced by the yacht owner's company. They were attacking innocents," Ostapchuk told the judge. (With inputs from agencies)

Enraged over conflict, Ukrainian sailor attempts to sink Russian boss’s luxury yacht, held

<p>In a heart-rending development, a journalist, who belongs to Ukraine, was left in tears on live television on Friday. Wondering why? &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Well, the scribe was heart-broken to see the footage of her house in Kyiv, which had got destroyed in the Russian attack. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>When Olga Malchevska, the journalist, was discussing the latest developments in Russia-Ukraine conflict with her colleague Karin Giannione, a footage appeared on the screen. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-russia-claims-to-have-besieged-two-big-cities-in-ukraine-455211" hreflang="en">Live: Russia claims to have besieged two big cities in Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>On seeing it, Malchevska told presenter Giannone at the studio in London, “This building is my home. I can’t believe what I am seeing is where I used to live.” &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The moment my <a href="https://twitter.com/bbcukrainian?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bbcukrainian</a> colleague <a href="https://twitter.com/Yollika?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Yollika</a> sees pictures of her family home, partially destroyed overnight in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kyiv?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kyiv</a>.<br />
<br />
We did not know until that moment it was her actual building that had been hit.<br />
<br />
Thankfully Olga’s family is safe. <a href="https://t.co/rglna1tvEA">pic.twitter.com/rglna1tvEA</a></p>
— Karin Giannone (@KarinBBC) <a href="https://twitter.com/KarinBBC/status/1497162333289914368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>While speaking, Malchevska also received a text message from her mother, who said that she was taking shelter in the basement of another building. “I’ve just got a message from my mum. She’s taking shelter in the basement. Luckily, she wasn’t in our building.” &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-ukraine-conflict-us-uk-eu-to-put-crippling-sanctions-on-russian-central-bank-block-swift-456943" hreflang="en">Over Ukraine conflict, US, UK, EU to put crippling sanctions on Russian central bank, block SWIFT</a></strong></p>

<p>“When we agreed yesterday to come to the studio in the morning, I could not have imagined that at 3 am London time, I would find out that my home is bombed,” Malchevska said. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The moment my <a href="https://twitter.com/bbcukrainian?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bbcukrainian</a> colleague <a href="https://twitter.com/Yollika?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Yollika</a> sees pictures of her family home, partially destroyed overnight in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kyiv?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kyiv</a>.<br />
<br />
We did not know until that moment it was her actual building that had been hit.<br />
<br />
Thankfully Olga’s family is safe. <a href="https://t.co/rglna1tvEA">pic.twitter.com/rglna1tvEA</a></p>
— Karin Giannone (@KarinBBC) <a href="https://twitter.com/KarinBBC/status/1497162333289914368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This brings home the reality and pain of war and the palpable horror involved.<br />
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My heart goes out to <a href="https://twitter.com/Yollika?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Yollika</a> and her family.<br />
<br />
In this day of 24 hour news and social media, it's easy to become a spectator and removed from the reality and destruction involved.</p>
— Daniel Rintoul (@danielrintoul) <a href="https://twitter.com/danielrintoul/status/1497163814520958989?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This was tough to watch but the world needs to see how devastating war is on everyday people. <a href="https://twitter.com/Yollika?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Yollika</a> I’m sorry this is happening to you and your country</p>
— Phil Jonas (@PhilSJonas) <a href="https://twitter.com/PhilSJonas/status/1497187046972137473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The video has garnered a lot of attention from social media users. Several people have shared and commented on it. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a heart-rending development, a journalist, who belongs to Ukraine, was left in tears on live television on Friday. Wondering why? Well, the scribe was heart-broken to see the footage of her house in Kyiv, which had got destroyed in the Russian attack.

In a heart-rending development, a journalist, who belongs to Ukraine, was left in tears on live television on Friday. Wondering why? Well, the scribe was heart-broken to see the footage of her house in Kyiv, which had got destroyed in the Russian attack. When Olga Malchevska, the journalist, was discussing the latest developments in Russia-Ukraine conflict with her colleague Karin Giannione, a footage appeared on the screen. Also Read | Live: Russia claims to have besieged two big cities in Ukraine On seeing it, Malchevska told presenter Giannone at the studio in London, “This building is my home. I can’t believe what I am seeing is where I used to live.” The moment my @bbcukrainian colleague @Yollika sees pictures of her family home, partially destroyed overnight in #Kyiv. We did not know until that moment it was her actual building that had been hit. Thankfully Olga’s family is safe. pic.twitter.com/rglna1tvEA — Karin Giannone (@KarinBBC) February 25, 2022 × While speaking, Malchevska also received a text message from her mother, who said that she was taking shelter in the basement of another building. “I’ve just got a message from my mum. She’s taking shelter in the basement. Luckily, she wasn’t in our building.” Also Read: Over Ukraine conflict, US, UK, EU to put crippling sanctions on Russian central bank, block SWIFT “When we agreed yesterday to come to the studio in the morning, I could not have imagined that at 3 am London time, I would find out that my home is bombed,” Malchevska said. The moment my @bbcukrainian colleague @Yollika sees pictures of her family home, partially destroyed overnight in #Kyiv. We did not know until that moment it was her actual building that had been hit. Thankfully Olga’s family is safe. pic.twitter.com/rglna1tvEA — Karin Giannone (@KarinBBC) February 25, 2022 × This brings home the reality and pain of war and the palpable horror involved. My heart goes out to @Yollika and her family. In this day of 24 hour news and social media, it's easy to become a spectator and removed from the reality and destruction involved. — Daniel Rintoul (@danielrintoul) February 25, 2022 × This was tough to watch but the world needs to see how devastating war is on everyday people. @Yollika I’m sorry this is happening to you and your country — Phil Jonas (@PhilSJonas) February 25, 2022 × The video has garnered a lot of attention from social media users. Several people have shared and commented on it. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: On live TV, Ukrainian scribe left in tears on seeing wreckage of her Kyiv home   

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="4"><em>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.</em></p>

<p>A Ukrainian woman confronting a heavily-armed Russian soldier and demanding to know what they were doing in her country has gone viral in social media, with many hailing her as “brave”.</p>

<p>The woman, a resident of Henychesk, Kherson region, was seen voicing her outrage as Russia launched a full-scale attack on Ukraine, with tanks and jets covering various parts of the city and causing major destruction.</p>

<p>According to the video shared by Ukraine World news outlet on Twitter, the woman was seen offering sunflower seeds, the national flower of Ukraine, to the soldier, so that flowers might bloom when they die&nbsp;on Ukrainian land.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ukrainian woman confronts Russian soldiers in Henychesk, Kherson region. Asks them why they came to our land and urges to put sunflower seeds in their pockets [so that flowers would grow when they die on the Ukrainian land] <a href="https://t.co/ztTx2qK7kB">pic.twitter.com/ztTx2qK7kB</a></p>
— UkraineWorld (@ukraine_world) <a href="https://twitter.com/ukraine_world/status/1496866811110834176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>According to The Independent, the woman in the clip can be seen purportedly asking the soldiers, "Who are you?", to which a soldier standing in the street replies, “We have exercises here. Please go this way.”</p>

<p>After asking if they are Russians, she said: “So what the f*** are you doing here?”</p>

<p>When the soldiers tried to pacify her, the enraged woman said, "You’re occupants, you’re fascists! What the f*** are you doing on our land with all these guns?”</p>

<p>“Take these seeds and put them in your pockets, so at least sunflowers will grow when you all lie down here,” she said.</p>

<p>Ever since the video became viral, the woman has received an outpouring of support from many users.</p>

<p>“The coming days and nights in #Ukraine are likely going to be long and hard. But with spirit like this woman shows, #Putin may find he bit off way more than he can chew. #PocketSunflowers to grow sunflowers from their graves!”&nbsp;a Twitter user said.</p>

<p>“Am I the only one reading that over and over, and getting chills each time?” wrote Chris Taylor, another Twitter user.</p>


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. A Ukrainian woman confronting a heavily-armed Russian soldier and demanding to know what they were doing in her country has gone viral in social media, with many hailing her as “brave”. The woman, a resident of Henychesk, Kherson region, was seen voicing her outrage as Russia launched a full-scale attack on Ukraine, with tanks and jets covering various parts of the city and causing major destruction. According to the video shared by Ukraine World news outlet on Twitter, the woman was seen offering sunflower seeds, the national flower of Ukraine, to the soldier, so that flowers might bloom when they die on Ukrainian land. Ukrainian woman confronts Russian soldiers in Henychesk, Kherson region. Asks them why they came to our land and urges to put sunflower seeds in their pockets [so that flowers would grow when they die on the Ukrainian land] pic.twitter.com/ztTx2qK7kB — UkraineWorld (@ukraine_world) February 24, 2022 × According to The Independent, the woman in the clip can be seen purportedly asking the soldiers, "Who are you?", to which a soldier standing in the street replies, “We have exercises here. Please go this way.” After asking if they are Russians, she said: “So what the f*** are you doing here?” When the soldiers tried to pacify her, the enraged woman said, "You’re occupants, you’re fascists! What the f*** are you doing on our land with all these guns?” “Take these seeds and put them in your pockets, so at least sunflowers will grow when you all lie down here,” she said. Ever since the video became viral, the woman has received an outpouring of support from many users. “The coming days and nights in #Ukraine are likely going to be long and hard. But with spirit like this woman shows, #Putin may find he bit off way more than he can chew. #PocketSunflowers to grow sunflowers from their graves!” a Twitter user said. “Am I the only one reading that over and over, and getting chills each time?” wrote Chris Taylor, another Twitter user.

‘What the f*** are you doing’: Video of Ukrainian woman confronting Russian soldiers goes viral

<p>After weeks of tension between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-ukraine-invasion-many-dead-as-russia-launches-second-wave-of-missile-attacks-455211">Russia and Ukraine</a>,&nbsp;on Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a special military operation into Ukraine.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
As Russia launched wide-ranging attacks targeting multiple cities, celebrities from around the world have reacted to the critical situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pics-scared-residents-struggle-to-flee-kyiv-as-they-line-up-at-atms-gas-stations-456056#ukrainian-military-vehicles-456038"><strong>Pics: Scared residents struggle to flee Kyiv as they line up at ATMs, gas stations</strong></a><br />
<br />
Amid escalating tensions between the two countries, Russian actress Irina Starshenbaum reacted to the situation. Noting that how war will only bring war and pain, Irina expressed&nbsp;a deep 'apology'&nbsp;to the Ukrainian people.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Sharing a black post on her Instagram account,&nbsp;the actress wrote, ''How did we get to that point? Why, then, do we remember every May 9 how much pain and loss the war brought us? I don't want to believe that. We didn't choose that.''</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/50-russian-occupiers-killed-we-have-losses-says-ukraine-as-casualties-rise-455989">'50 Russian occupiers killed': We have losses, says Ukraine as casualties rise</a></p>

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<p>Adding further, she wrote, ''Nothing will justify war and I don't have the words to express all the pain and horror of this morning. Ukrainians, please forgive me for my helplessness. We wish an immediate end to these heinous acts.''</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/the-simpsons-had-predicted-the-russia-ukraine-crisis-way-back-in-1998heres-proof-455716" hreflang="en">The Simpsons had predicted the Russia-Ukraine crisis way back in 1998.Here's proof</a></p>

<p>Vampire Academy's fame Danila Kozlovsky also shared a black post on his Instagram account&nbsp;and simply wrote, ''Fear and shame....agree! NO WAR.''</p>

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<p>Many <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ukraine-russia-conflict-stephen-king-piers-morgan-other-celebs-react-455996">celebritie</a>s from around the world have also reacted to the Ukraine-Russia conflict, including Stephen King, Piers Morgan and Cardi B.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-bow-down-ukraine-president-vows-to-fight-back-against-aggressor-russia-456029">‘Won’t bow down’: Ukraine president vows to fight back against Russia</a><br />
<br />
Stephen King wrote, “What most of us learned as kids on the playground: You don’t stand by while a big kid beats up a little kid. You might take a punch or two making the big kid stop, but that’s the right thing to do.”<br />
<br />
Earlier, Cardi B said, "Wish these world leaders [would] stop tripping about power and really think about who's really getting affected (citizens) besides the whole world is in a crisis. War, sanctions, invasions should be the last thing these leaders should worry about.”</p>


After weeks of tension between Russia and Ukraine, on Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a special military operation into Ukraine. As Russia launched wide-ranging attacks targeting multiple cities, celebrities from around the world have reacted to the critical situation.

After weeks of tension between Russia and Ukraine, on Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a special military operation into Ukraine. As Russia launched wide-ranging attacks targeting multiple cities, celebrities from around the world have reacted to the critical situation. Pics: Scared residents struggle to flee Kyiv as they line up at ATMs, gas stations Amid escalating tensions between the two countries, Russian actress Irina Starshenbaum reacted to the situation. Noting that how war will only bring war and pain, Irina expressed a deep 'apology' to the Ukrainian people. Sharing a black post on her Instagram account, the actress wrote, ''How did we get to that point? Why, then, do we remember every May 9 how much pain and loss the war brought us? I don't want to believe that. We didn't choose that.'' '50 Russian occupiers killed': We have losses, says Ukraine as casualties rise View this post on Instagram A post shared by Irina Starshenbaum (@starshenbaum) × Adding further, she wrote, ''Nothing will justify war and I don't have the words to express all the pain and horror of this morning. Ukrainians, please forgive me for my helplessness. We wish an immediate end to these heinous acts.'' The Simpsons had predicted the Russia-Ukraine crisis way back in 1998.Here's proof Vampire Academy's fame Danila Kozlovsky also shared a black post on his Instagram account and simply wrote, ''Fear and shame....agree! NO WAR.'' View this post on Instagram A post shared by Danila Kozlovsky (@danilakozlovsky) × Many celebrities from around the world have also reacted to the Ukraine-Russia conflict, including Stephen King, Piers Morgan and Cardi B. ‘Won’t bow down’: Ukraine president vows to fight back against Russia Stephen King wrote, “What most of us learned as kids on the playground: You don’t stand by while a big kid beats up a little kid. You might take a punch or two making the big kid stop, but that’s the right thing to do.” Earlier, Cardi B said, "Wish these world leaders [would] stop tripping about power and really think about who's really getting affected (citizens) besides the whole world is in a crisis. War, sanctions, invasions should be the last thing these leaders should worry about.”

Ukrainians, please forgive me! Russian actress Irina Starshenbaum on Russia-Ukraine conflict

<p>With the threat of war on mind, the United States on Sunday has ordered the departure of family members of staff at its Ukrainian embassy. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The voluntary departure of US government employees has also been authorised by the US State Department. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also said that Americans should consider departing immediately from the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-warns-russia-of-very-serious-consequences-if-it-installs-puppet-regime-in-ukraine-447008" hreflang="en">UK warns Russia of 'very serious consequences' if it installs 'puppet regime' in Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>The US Embassy said, "We have been in consultation with the Ukrainian government about this step and are coordinating with Allied and partner embassies in Kyiv as they determine their posture."</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;United States orders departure of its diplomats' families from Kyiv amid Russia-Ukraine conflict</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The actions of the US government indicate that the continuing threat of military action from Russia seems to be imminent and it does not want a repeat of a situation like Afghanistan evacuation last year. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the US Embassy in Kyiv warned that "military action by Russia could come at any time and the United States government will not be in a position to evacuate American citizens in such a contingency, so US citizens currently present in Ukraine should plan accordingly."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-tests-from-us-government-begin-to-arrive-at-some-homes-446998" hreflang="en">Coronavirus tests from US government begin to arrive at some homes</a></strong></p>

<p>The State Department of the US also said that it was authorising the "voluntary departure of US direct hire employees." &nbsp;</p>

<p>The US Embassy in Kyiv is continuing to operate and its Chargé d’Affaires Kristina Kvien remains in the country, the State Department officials said. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


With the threat of war on mind, the United States on Sunday has ordered the departure of family members of staff at its Ukrainian embassy. The voluntary departure of US government employees has also been authorised by the US State Department.

With the threat of war on mind, the United States on Sunday has ordered the departure of family members of staff at its Ukrainian embassy. The voluntary departure of US government employees has also been authorised by the US State Department. It also said that Americans should consider departing immediately from the country. Also Read: UK warns Russia of 'very serious consequences' if it installs 'puppet regime' in Ukraine The US Embassy said, "We have been in consultation with the Ukrainian government about this step and are coordinating with Allied and partner embassies in Kyiv as they determine their posture." Watch: United States orders departure of its diplomats' families from Kyiv amid Russia-Ukraine conflict × The actions of the US government indicate that the continuing threat of military action from Russia seems to be imminent and it does not want a repeat of a situation like Afghanistan evacuation last year. In a statement, the US Embassy in Kyiv warned that "military action by Russia could come at any time and the United States government will not be in a position to evacuate American citizens in such a contingency, so US citizens currently present in Ukraine should plan accordingly." Also Read: Coronavirus tests from US government begin to arrive at some homes The State Department of the US also said that it was authorising the "voluntary departure of US direct hire employees." The US Embassy in Kyiv is continuing to operate and its Chargé d’Affaires Kristina Kvien remains in the country, the State Department officials said. (With inputs from agencies)

Threat of war forces US to order departure of Ukrainian embassy staff’s kin

<p>The audiotape of a July 2019 phone call shows former US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's then-lawyer Rudy Giuliani pressuring Ukrainian officials to investigate baseless allegations about Trump's 2020 election rival Joe Biden, CNN reported on Monday.<br />
<br />
CNN said it had obtained the audio of the call between Giuliani, US&nbsp;diplomat Kurt Volker, and Andriy Yermak, a senior adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy which it said was the precursor of a Trump-Zelenskiy call which was at the center of Trump's 2019 impeachment.<br />
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In the call, Giuliani said he wanted Zelenskiy to say he was putting a prosecutor in charge and "he's gonna investigate and dig up the evidence, that presently exists and is there any other evidence about involvement of the 2016 election, and then the Biden thing has to be run out," according to CNN.<br />
<br />
Trump, a Republican, denounced as a political witch hunt allegations that he pressed Zelenskiy during a phone call to dig up dirt on Biden. The Democratic-led US&nbsp;House of Representatives voted to impeach Trump in December 2019, but he was acquitted by the then-Republican-dominated Senate early in 2020.<br />
<br />
Trump lost the 2020 election to Biden, a Democrat, and left office in January 2021.<br />
<br />
In April, federal prosecutors investigating Giuliani's business dealings in Ukraine at the time he was serving as Trump's lawyer raided his home and office, seizing cell phones and computers.<br />
<br />
Giuliani, a former New York City mayor, has not been charged. He said after the raids that his conduct had been 'absolutely legal and ethical'.<br />
<br />
Giuliani began representing Trump in April 2018 in connection with then-Special Counsel Robert Mueller's probe into Russian interference in the 2016 US&nbsp;presidential election.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The audiotape of a July 2019 phone call shows former US President Donald Trump's then-lawyer Rudy Giuliani pressuring Ukrainian officials to investigate baseless allegations about Trump's 2020 election rival Joe Biden, CNN reported on Monday.

The audiotape of a July 2019 phone call shows former US President Donald Trump's then-lawyer Rudy Giuliani pressuring Ukrainian officials to investigate baseless allegations about Trump's 2020 election rival Joe Biden, CNN reported on Monday. CNN said it had obtained the audio of the call between Giuliani, US diplomat Kurt Volker, and Andriy Yermak, a senior adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy which it said was the precursor of a Trump-Zelenskiy call which was at the center of Trump's 2019 impeachment. In the call, Giuliani said he wanted Zelenskiy to say he was putting a prosecutor in charge and "he's gonna investigate and dig up the evidence, that presently exists and is there any other evidence about involvement of the 2016 election, and then the Biden thing has to be run out," according to CNN. Trump, a Republican, denounced as a political witch hunt allegations that he pressed Zelenskiy during a phone call to dig up dirt on Biden. The Democratic-led US House of Representatives voted to impeach Trump in December 2019, but he was acquitted by the then-Republican-dominated Senate early in 2020. Trump lost the 2020 election to Biden, a Democrat, and left office in January 2021. In April, federal prosecutors investigating Giuliani's business dealings in Ukraine at the time he was serving as Trump's lawyer raided his home and office, seizing cell phones and computers. Giuliani, a former New York City mayor, has not been charged. He said after the raids that his conduct had been 'absolutely legal and ethical'. Giuliani began representing Trump in April 2018 in connection with then-Special Counsel Robert Mueller's probe into Russian interference in the 2016 US presidential election. (With inputs from agencies)

Giuliani pressed Ukrainians to probe Biden allegations in 2019 call: CNN

<p>President Joe Biden has invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for a White House visit this summer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>National security adviser Jake Sullivan said Biden extended the invitation during a phone call on Monday with Zelenskyy, who has publicly raised concerns about the US&nbsp;President's plan to meet with Russian leader Vladimir Putin and about a nearly completed Russia-to-Germany natural gas pipeline that would allow Russia to bypass Ukraine.</p>

<p>Biden made the invitation during a call that had been planned in advance of Biden's trip to Europe that culminates with a stop in Geneva next week for a face-to-face meeting with Putin as tensions in the US-Russia relationship remain high.</p>

<p>Zelenskyy tweeted his response: "Thank you @POTUS @JoeBiden for inviting me to visit the @WhiteHouse in July during our phone conversation. I look forward to this meeting to discuss ways to expand strategic cooperation between Ukraine and #USA."</p>

<p>Sullivan said Biden and Zelenskyy had the 'opportunity to talk at some length about all of the issues in the US-Ukraine relationship and President Biden was able to tell President Zelenskyy that he will stand up firmly for Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and its aspirations as we go forward."</p>

<p>The Ukrainians also indicated that the Biden administration had committed to sharing 900,000 COVID-19 vaccines with Kyiv. Last week, the White House announced plans to share 80 million vaccine doses 'most through the United Nations-backed COVAX programme'&nbsp;by the end of June.</p>

<p>About 6 million in the initial distribution of 25 million were to be directed by the White House to US&nbsp;Allies and partners, including Mexico, Canada, South Korea, the West Bank and Gaza, India, Ukraine, Kosovo, Haiti, Georgia, Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, and Yemen, as well as to United Nations frontline workers.</p>

<p>"It will save the lives of many Ukrainians," Zelenskky said in a statement.&nbsp;The Biden administration disappointed Ukraine 'as well as many Democratic and Republican lawmakers in Washington' when it announced last month that it would not punish the German company overseeing the Russia-to-Germany pipeline known as Nord Stream 2, because it did not want to levy sanctions against an important European ally.</p>

<p>Russian gas currently flows through Ukraine en route to Europe, and Zelenskyy was hopeful that Biden would move to block the project that faced bipartisan opposition in Congress.</p>

<p>Zelenskyy reiterated his concerns about the pipeline during the call, according to the statement from his office.</p>

<p><br />
Zelenskyy, in an interview with Axios published on Sunday, said he had urged Biden to join him 'at any moment and at any spot on the planet' before the planned Geneva meeting with Putin next week.</p>

<p>Ukraine has harbored hopes for increased military aid during the Biden administration and is looking for backing in its bid for NATO membership. Ukraine has long battled against Russia-backed separatists in the east and in the halls of government in Kyiv.</p>

<p>Crimea and large swaths of eastern Ukraine's Donbas region are under Russian occupation. Fighting in the region has claimed thousands of Ukrainian lives.</p>

<p>Russia launched a buildup of troops near the border earlier this year before announcing in April that it would pull back those forces.</p>

<p>The provocative move alarmed the US&nbsp;and other European allies. Zelenskyy, in the call, emphasised to Biden that there was still a high concentration of Russian troops and heavy weaponry there.</p>

<p>Zelenskyy found himself ensnared in former President Donald Trump's first impeachment, which centered around a 16-minute phone call in which Trump pressured the Ukrainian leader to investigate Biden and his son's dealings in the Eastern European nation in 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


President Joe Biden has invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for a White House visit this summer. National security adviser Jake Sullivan said Biden extended the invitation during a phone call on Monday with Zelenskyy, who has publicly raised concerns about the US President's plan to meet with Russian leader Vladimir Putin and about a nearly completed Russia-to-Germany natural gas pipeline that would allow Russia to bypass Ukraine.

President Joe Biden has invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for a White House visit this summer. National security adviser Jake Sullivan said Biden extended the invitation during a phone call on Monday with Zelenskyy, who has publicly raised concerns about the US President's plan to meet with Russian leader Vladimir Putin and about a nearly completed Russia-to-Germany natural gas pipeline that would allow Russia to bypass Ukraine. Biden made the invitation during a call that had been planned in advance of Biden's trip to Europe that culminates with a stop in Geneva next week for a face-to-face meeting with Putin as tensions in the US-Russia relationship remain high. Zelenskyy tweeted his response: "Thank you @POTUS @JoeBiden for inviting me to visit the @WhiteHouse in July during our phone conversation. I look forward to this meeting to discuss ways to expand strategic cooperation between Ukraine and #USA." Sullivan said Biden and Zelenskyy had the 'opportunity to talk at some length about all of the issues in the US-Ukraine relationship and President Biden was able to tell President Zelenskyy that he will stand up firmly for Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and its aspirations as we go forward." The Ukrainians also indicated that the Biden administration had committed to sharing 900,000 COVID-19 vaccines with Kyiv. Last week, the White House announced plans to share 80 million vaccine doses 'most through the United Nations-backed COVAX programme' by the end of June. About 6 million in the initial distribution of 25 million were to be directed by the White House to US Allies and partners, including Mexico, Canada, South Korea, the West Bank and Gaza, India, Ukraine, Kosovo, Haiti, Georgia, Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, and Yemen, as well as to United Nations frontline workers. "It will save the lives of many Ukrainians," Zelenskky said in a statement. The Biden administration disappointed Ukraine 'as well as many Democratic and Republican lawmakers in Washington' when it announced last month that it would not punish the German company overseeing the Russia-to-Germany pipeline known as Nord Stream 2, because it did not want to levy sanctions against an important European ally. Russian gas currently flows through Ukraine en route to Europe, and Zelenskyy was hopeful that Biden would move to block the project that faced bipartisan opposition in Congress. Zelenskyy reiterated his concerns about the pipeline during the call, according to the statement from his office. Zelenskyy, in an interview with Axios published on Sunday, said he had urged Biden to join him 'at any moment and at any spot on the planet' before the planned Geneva meeting with Putin next week. Ukraine has harbored hopes for increased military aid during the Biden administration and is looking for backing in its bid for NATO membership. Ukraine has long battled against Russia-backed separatists in the east and in the halls of government in Kyiv. Crimea and large swaths of eastern Ukraine's Donbas region are under Russian occupation. Fighting in the region has claimed thousands of Ukrainian lives. Russia launched a buildup of troops near the border earlier this year before announcing in April that it would pull back those forces. The provocative move alarmed the US and other European allies. Zelenskyy, in the call, emphasised to Biden that there was still a high concentration of Russian troops and heavy weaponry there. Zelenskyy found himself ensnared in former President Donald Trump's first impeachment, which centered around a 16-minute phone call in which Trump pressured the Ukrainian leader to investigate Biden and his son's dealings in the Eastern European nation in 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden invites Ukrainian president to White House this summer

<p>The Ukrainian ambassador to Thailand collapsed and died on Sunday while on a resort island with his family, authorities said.</p>

<p>Andrii Beshta, 44, was declared dead on Lipe Island in southern Satun province, Gov&nbsp;Ekkarat Leesen told The Associated Press.</p>

<p>Police quoted his teenage son, who was staying in the same hotel room, as saying his father vomited and fainted early on Sunday. He said he was feeling fine before. Police said they suspect he may have suffered a heart failure.</p>

<p>Leesen said the body was sent to the police hospital for an autopsy.</p>

<p>Beshta had assumed the post of ambassador in January 2016. He is survived by his wife, daughter and two sons, according to a bio on the embassy's website.</p>


The Ukrainian ambassador to Thailand collapsed and died on Sunday while on a resort island with his family, authorities said. Andrii Beshta, 44, was declared dead on Lipe Island in southern Satun province, Gov Ekkarat Leesen told The Associated Press.

The Ukrainian ambassador to Thailand collapsed and died on Sunday while on a resort island with his family, authorities said. Andrii Beshta, 44, was declared dead on Lipe Island in southern Satun province, Gov Ekkarat Leesen told The Associated Press. Police quoted his teenage son, who was staying in the same hotel room, as saying his father vomited and fainted early on Sunday. He said he was feeling fine before. Police said they suspect he may have suffered a heart failure. Leesen said the body was sent to the police hospital for an autopsy. Beshta had assumed the post of ambassador in January 2016. He is survived by his wife, daughter and two sons, according to a bio on the embassy's website.

Ukrainian ambassador in Thailand dies on resort island

In first fatal incident for Ukraine airline, plane crashes in Iran

<p>All passengers onboard a Ukrainian plane, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-airplane-with-180-aboard-crashes-in-iran-272823">that crashed in Iran on Wednesday</a>, have died in the mishap, news agency AFP reported citing Iran's semi-official ISNA news agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iran's non-governmental, humanitarian organisation, Iran Red Crescent, stated that there were no chances of finding survivors in the plane crash.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Ukrainian plane crash" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="13c569fe-bf10-441c-a3fa-3ac5777b817a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_28.jpg" /></p>

<p>The airplane, a Boeing 737, which belonged to Ukraine International Airlines, crashed shortly after taking off for Kiev from Tehran's Imam Khomeini airport due to some technical snag.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="​​Ukraine International Airlines plane crashed" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c49287f4-0cbb-4849-b386-cd4a3169eed2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2829%29_1.jpg" /></p>

<p>The plane was carrying at least 170 people on board.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Boeing Company took to microblogging site Twitter and stated that it is aware of the crash of Ukrainian airplane in Iran and is in the process of gathering more information on the same.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="​​Ukraine International Airlines flight PS752" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="201561b2-a1c8-48dc-9347-9f152109773d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2830%29_4.jpg" /></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We are aware of the media reports out of Iran and we are gathering more information.</p>
— The Boeing Company (@Boeing) <a href="https://twitter.com/Boeing/status/1214768412779520000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Aviation giant Boeing has been facing a nine-month crisis after its 737 Max was grounded since last March following fatal crashes wherein over 300 people were killed.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This video is claimed to be the last minutes of Ukrainian Boeing 737 before crash...<br />
No information has been realised about casualties so far...<br />
<br />
Pray for all them on board. <a href="https://t.co/f9X9ROvmUr">pic.twitter.com/f9X9ROvmUr</a></p>
— Danial Khazaei (@DanielKhazaei) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanielKhazaei/status/1214759982673072128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Boeing 737 Max was grounded globally last year following two deadly crashes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday, Boeing called for a simulator training for pilots of the 737 MAX before the resumption of flights.</p>

<p><img alt="Ukrainian plane crash" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77d4b6a1-cc07-4c9f-86f0-8d61423316a2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_38.jpg" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-737-max-ethiopian-airlines-chief-rejects-pilot-error-claim-in-us-227998">Boeing 737 MAX 8</a> was grounded worldwide after Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 crashed in March 2019, killing all 157 people on board.</p>

<p>As many as 189 people were killed after a Lion Air 737 MAX 8 crashed in Indonesia in October 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Ukraine International Airlines flight PS752" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7e4f5442-12f4-4386-8539-5dff89e57ec0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29_14.jpg" /></p>


All passengers onboard a Ukrainian plane, that crashed in Iran on Wednesday, have died in the mishap, news agency AFP reported citing Iran's semi-official ISNA news agency.

All passengers onboard a Ukrainian plane, that crashed in Iran on Wednesday, have died in the mishap, news agency AFP reported citing Iran's semi-official ISNA news agency. Iran's non-governmental, humanitarian organisation, Iran Red Crescent, stated that there were no chances of finding survivors in the plane crash. The airplane, a Boeing 737, which belonged to Ukraine International Airlines, crashed shortly after taking off for Kiev from Tehran's Imam Khomeini airport due to some technical snag. The plane was carrying at least 170 people on board. Meanwhile, the Boeing Company took to microblogging site Twitter and stated that it is aware of the crash of Ukrainian airplane in Iran and is in the process of gathering more information on the same. We are aware of the media reports out of Iran and we are gathering more information. — The Boeing Company (@Boeing) January 8, 2020 × Aviation giant Boeing has been facing a nine-month crisis after its 737 Max was grounded since last March following fatal crashes wherein over 300 people were killed. This video is claimed to be the last minutes of Ukrainian Boeing 737 before crash... No information has been realised about casualties so far... Pray for all them on board. pic.twitter.com/f9X9ROvmUr — Danial Khazaei (@DanielKhazaei) January 8, 2020 × Boeing 737 Max was grounded globally last year following two deadly crashes. On Tuesday, Boeing called for a simulator training for pilots of the 737 MAX before the resumption of flights. Boeing 737 MAX 8 was grounded worldwide after Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 crashed in March 2019, killing all 157 people on board. As many as 189 people were killed after a Lion Air 737 MAX 8 crashed in Indonesia in October 2019.

Iran: All passengers aboard Ukrainian airplane killed in crash near Tehran

<p>A Ukrainian airplane, a Boeing 737, crashed with as many as 180 passengers on board after taking off from Iran's Imam Khomeini airport in the capital city Tehran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, the airplane crashed shortly after its take-off due to some technical snag. More information on the incident is awaited.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The airplane belonged to&nbsp;Ukraine International Airlines.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-737-max-ethiopian-airlines-chief-rejects-pilot-error-claim-in-us-227998">Boeing 737 Max</a> was grounded globally last year following two deadly crashes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday, Boeing called for a simulator training for pilots of the 737 MAX before the resumption of flights.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This video is claimed to be the last minutes of Ukrainian Boeing 737 before crash...<br />
No information has been realised about casualties so far...<br />
<br />
Pray for all them on board. <a href="https://t.co/f9X9ROvmUr">pic.twitter.com/f9X9ROvmUr</a></p>
— Danial Khazaei (@DanielKhazaei) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanielKhazaei/status/1214759982673072128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Aviation giant Boeing has been facing a nine-month crisis after its 737 Max was grounded since last March following fatal crashes wherein over 300 people were killed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Boeing 737 MAX 8 was grounded worldwide after Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 crashed in March, 2019, killing all 157 people on board.</p>

<p>As many as 189 people were killed after a Lion Air 737 MAX 8 crashed in Indonesia in October 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A Ukrainian airplane, a Boeing 737, crashed with as many as 180 passengers on board after taking off from Iran's Imam Khomeini airport in the capital city Tehran.

A Ukrainian airplane, a Boeing 737, crashed with as many as 180 passengers on board after taking off from Iran's Imam Khomeini airport in the capital city Tehran. According to reports, the airplane crashed shortly after its take-off due to some technical snag. More information on the incident is awaited. The airplane belonged to Ukraine International Airlines. Boeing 737 Max was grounded globally last year following two deadly crashes. On Tuesday, Boeing called for a simulator training for pilots of the 737 MAX before the resumption of flights. This video is claimed to be the last minutes of Ukrainian Boeing 737 before crash... No information has been realised about casualties so far... Pray for all them on board. pic.twitter.com/f9X9ROvmUr — Danial Khazaei (@DanielKhazaei) January 8, 2020 × Aviation giant Boeing has been facing a nine-month crisis after its 737 Max was grounded since last March following fatal crashes wherein over 300 people were killed. Boeing 737 MAX 8 was grounded worldwide after Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 crashed in March, 2019, killing all 157 people on board. As many as 189 people were killed after a Lion Air 737 MAX 8 crashed in Indonesia in October 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

Boeing 737 airplane with 180 aboard crashes in Iran

<p>The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-all-passengers-aboard-ukrainian-airplane-killed-in-crash-272841">Ukrainian airliner that crashed</a> outside Tehran on Wednesday killing over 170 people was a Boeing 737 built-in 2016 and checked only two days before the accident, the company said.</p>

<p>"The plane was manufactured in 2016, it was received by the airline directly from the (Boeing) factory. The plane underwent its last planned technical maintenance on January 6, 2020," Ukraine International Airlines said in a statement.</p>

<p><img alt="Ukrainian plane crash" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="13c569fe-bf10-441c-a3fa-3ac5777b817a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_28.jpg" /></p>

<p>It took off from Tehran airport at 6:10 am&nbsp;and disappeared from radars just a few minutes later, crashing in Tehran province.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO: Rescue workers search the site of a crashed jet operated by Ukraine International Airlines <a href="https://t.co/OWMwZKfrIX">pic.twitter.com/OWMwZKfrIX</a></p>
— AFP news agency (@AFP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AFP/status/1214817886595735553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>There were no survivors among the crew and passengers, who were mostly Iranian and Canadian nationals, according to Ukraine's foreign ministry.</p>

<p><img alt="​​Ukraine International Airlines plane crashed" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c49287f4-0cbb-4849-b386-cd4a3169eed2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2829%29_1.jpg" /></p>

<p>Ukraine International Airlines, the country's biggest airline and privately owned, said it had "decided to suspend its flights to Tehran starting today" and until further notice.</p>

<p><img alt="​​Ukraine International Airlines flight PS752" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="201561b2-a1c8-48dc-9347-9f152109773d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2830%29_4.jpg" /></p>

<p>It was notifying passengers families and working with aviation authorities "to do everything possible to find the reasons for the aviation accident".</p>

<p>Preliminary statements by Iranian and Ukrainian authorities suggest the plane suffered an engine malfunction, though the airline did not detail any reasons for the accident.</p>

<p>Ukraine's president ordered an investigation into the crash and a sweeping check of "all civilian aircraft" in the country.</p>


The Ukrainian airliner that crashed outside Tehran on Wednesday killing over 170 people was a Boeing 737 built-in 2016 and checked only two days before the accident, the company said.

The Ukrainian airliner that crashed outside Tehran on Wednesday killing over 170 people was a Boeing 737 built-in 2016 and checked only two days before the accident, the company said. "The plane was manufactured in 2016, it was received by the airline directly from the (Boeing) factory. The plane underwent its last planned technical maintenance on January 6, 2020," Ukraine International Airlines said in a statement. It took off from Tehran airport at 6:10 am and disappeared from radars just a few minutes later, crashing in Tehran province. VIDEO: Rescue workers search the site of a crashed jet operated by Ukraine International Airlines pic.twitter.com/OWMwZKfrIX — AFP news agency (@AFP) January 8, 2020 × There were no survivors among the crew and passengers, who were mostly Iranian and Canadian nationals, according to Ukraine's foreign ministry. Ukraine International Airlines, the country's biggest airline and privately owned, said it had "decided to suspend its flights to Tehran starting today" and until further notice. It was notifying passengers families and working with aviation authorities "to do everything possible to find the reasons for the aviation accident". Preliminary statements by Iranian and Ukrainian authorities suggest the plane suffered an engine malfunction, though the airline did not detail any reasons for the accident. Ukraine's president ordered an investigation into the crash and a sweeping check of "all civilian aircraft" in the country.

Crashed Boeing underwent maintenance checks 2 days before accident: Ukraine Airline

<p>Ukraine must investigate the activities of US presidential candidate Joe Biden`s son to establish whether his role in a Ukrainian gas company complied with the country`s laws, Mykola Azarov, Ukraine`s former prime minister, said in an interview.</p>

<p>Azarov did not specify to which Ukrainian laws he was referring.</p>

<p>Hunter Biden`s role in the company, Burisma Holdings Limited, is in focus after the White House published a memo showing US President Donald Trump asked his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, in a July phone call to get prosecutors to look into his activities. Zelenskiy agreed.</p>

<p>"It`s a fact (his directorship and fees) and not made up. It should be investigated so that the `i`s can be dotted and the `t`s crossed," Azarov told Reuters.</p>

<p>A spokesperson for Joe Biden`s campaign declined to comment on Azarov`s investigation call and none of Hunter Biden`s critics have provided any evidence that he broke Ukrainian law.</p>

<p>Ukraine`s National Anti-Corruption Bureau said on Friday it was investigating activity at Burisma between 2010-2012, but that it was not looking into changes to its board in 2014, when Hunter Biden joined.</p>

<p>Democrats in the US House of Representatives are pursuing an impeachment inquiry against Trump, a Republican, after a whistleblower complained about his call with Zelenskiy. Lawmakers are looking into whether Trump`s actions jeopardised national security and the integrity of US elections, saying he appeared to be soliciting a political favour from a foreign leader to get re-elected.</p>

<p>Azarov lives in Moscow, but says he remains well-connected with parts of Ukraine`s political establishment and would like to return one day. He did not provide further details.</p>

<p>Hunter Biden was a director on Burisma`s board from 2014 until at least 2018, according to documents filed by the company in Cyprus, where it is registered.</p>

<p>Azarov, who was prime minister from 2010-2014, is himself wanted by Ukrainian authorities for alleged abuse of power. An Interpol red notice issued in 2015 at the request of Ukrainian authorities said he was wanted on accusations of charges including embezzlement and misappropriation.</p>

<p>Azarov denies any wrongdoing and Reuters cannot determine whether there is any active investigation on him.</p>

<p>Azarov said he was not aware of any evidence suggesting wrongdoing on Hunter Biden`s part, but said it was in the Ukrainian public interest to ascertain the legality of his activities.</p>

<p>In particular, he said it was important to investigate what Biden had done for Burisma to justify his fee.</p>

<p>The younger Biden has said he consulted for Burisma, but critics have suggested he was not doing actual work in return for his compensation, an allegation he denies.</p>

<p>"I think it`s essential (he`s investigated)," Azarov told Reuters in Moscow, where Azarov fled after street protests toppled Russia-friendly President Viktor Yanukovich in 2014.</p>

<p>"If, using his knowledge, he played an active role then there`s nothing scandalous about it," Azarov said. "But if he was simply on the books and getting money, then that could be seen as a violation of the law."</p>

<p>Burisma was not available for comment on Saturday night.</p>

<p>Ukrainian prosecutors have said they are not investigating Hunter Biden, but are looking into the legality of Burisma`s activities before Biden joined its board.</p>

<p>Azarov said he thought it was "absolute nonsense", but that he believed allegations from Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani and others that Joe Biden had got Ukraine`s prosecutor general fired to protect his son Hunter must also be investigated.</p>

<p>The former US vice president has denied using his influence to get Ukraine`s prosecutor general, Viktor Shokin, fired in 2016 to prevent him investigating his son`s involvement and has said he and his son have done nothing wrong.</p>


Ukraine must investigate the activities of US presidential candidate Joe Biden`s son to establish whether his role in a Ukrainian gas company complied with the country`s laws, Mykola Azarov, Ukraine`s former prime minister, said in an interview.

Ukraine must investigate the activities of US presidential candidate Joe Biden`s son to establish whether his role in a Ukrainian gas company complied with the country`s laws, Mykola Azarov, Ukraine`s former prime minister, said in an interview. Azarov did not specify to which Ukrainian laws he was referring. Hunter Biden`s role in the company, Burisma Holdings Limited, is in focus after the White House published a memo showing US President Donald Trump asked his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, in a July phone call to get prosecutors to look into his activities. Zelenskiy agreed. "It`s a fact (his directorship and fees) and not made up. It should be investigated so that the `i`s can be dotted and the `t`s crossed," Azarov told Reuters. A spokesperson for Joe Biden`s campaign declined to comment on Azarov`s investigation call and none of Hunter Biden`s critics have provided any evidence that he broke Ukrainian law. Ukraine`s National Anti-Corruption Bureau said on Friday it was investigating activity at Burisma between 2010-2012, but that it was not looking into changes to its board in 2014, when Hunter Biden joined. Democrats in the US House of Representatives are pursuing an impeachment inquiry against Trump, a Republican, after a whistleblower complained about his call with Zelenskiy. Lawmakers are looking into whether Trump`s actions jeopardised national security and the integrity of US elections, saying he appeared to be soliciting a political favour from a foreign leader to get re-elected. Azarov lives in Moscow, but says he remains well-connected with parts of Ukraine`s political establishment and would like to return one day. He did not provide further details. Hunter Biden was a director on Burisma`s board from 2014 until at least 2018, according to documents filed by the company in Cyprus, where it is registered. Azarov, who was prime minister from 2010-2014, is himself wanted by Ukrainian authorities for alleged abuse of power. An Interpol red notice issued in 2015 at the request of Ukrainian authorities said he was wanted on accusations of charges including embezzlement and misappropriation. Azarov denies any wrongdoing and Reuters cannot determine whether there is any active investigation on him. Azarov said he was not aware of any evidence suggesting wrongdoing on Hunter Biden`s part, but said it was in the Ukrainian public interest to ascertain the legality of his activities. In particular, he said it was important to investigate what Biden had done for Burisma to justify his fee. The younger Biden has said he consulted for Burisma, but critics have suggested he was not doing actual work in return for his compensation, an allegation he denies. "I think it`s essential (he`s investigated)," Azarov told Reuters in Moscow, where Azarov fled after street protests toppled Russia-friendly President Viktor Yanukovich in 2014. "If, using his knowledge, he played an active role then there`s nothing scandalous about it," Azarov said. "But if he was simply on the books and getting money, then that could be seen as a violation of the law." Burisma was not available for comment on Saturday night. Ukrainian prosecutors have said they are not investigating Hunter Biden, but are looking into the legality of Burisma`s activities before Biden joined its board. Azarov said he thought it was "absolute nonsense", but that he believed allegations from Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani and others that Joe Biden had got Ukraine`s prosecutor general fired to protect his son Hunter must also be investigated. The former US vice president has denied using his influence to get Ukraine`s prosecutor general, Viktor Shokin, fired in 2016 to prevent him investigating his son`s involvement and has said he and his son have done nothing wrong.

Ukraine must investigate Joe Biden's son: Ex-Ukrainian PM

<p>Joe Biden on Friday demanded Donald Trump release the transcript of a call in which the US president reportedly pressured his Ukrainian counterpart for political gain, an act the Democratic presidential hopeful denounced as "clear-cut corruption."</p>

<p>Trump "should immediately release the transcript of the call in question, so that the American people can judge for themselves," Biden said, and also instruct the director of national intelligence to "stop stonewalling" and release to Congress the secret complaint about the call filed by a whistleblower.</p>

<p>Trump spoke by phone with Ukraine's new President Volodymyr Zelensky on July 25, a call US media said featured Trump seeking to coerce his counterpart into launching an investigation of Biden's son in order to dig up information that could damage Biden's 2020 presidential bid.</p>

<p>"Such clear-cut corruption damages and diminishes our institutions of government by making them tools of a personal political vendetta," Biden said in a statement.</p>


Joe Biden on Friday demanded Donald Trump release the transcript of a call in which the US president reportedly pressured his Ukrainian counterpart for political gain, an act the Democratic presidential hopeful denounced as "clear-cut corruption.

Joe Biden on Friday demanded Donald Trump release the transcript of a call in which the US president reportedly pressured his Ukrainian counterpart for political gain, an act the Democratic presidential hopeful denounced as "clear-cut corruption." Trump "should immediately release the transcript of the call in question, so that the American people can judge for themselves," Biden said, and also instruct the director of national intelligence to "stop stonewalling" and release to Congress the secret complaint about the call filed by a whistleblower. Trump spoke by phone with Ukraine's new President Volodymyr Zelensky on July 25, a call US media said featured Trump seeking to coerce his counterpart into launching an investigation of Biden's son in order to dig up information that could damage Biden's 2020 presidential bid. "Such clear-cut corruption damages and diminishes our institutions of government by making them tools of a personal political vendetta," Biden said in a statement.

Joe Biden demands Trump release transcript of call in whistleblower case

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