Russia-Ukraine war showed no signs of de-escalation on Friday (June 2) as air raid sirens were heard across the war-torn east European nation, including in the capital Kyiv. The officials in Kyiv claimed that they shot down 30 missiles and drones fired into the capital.

Moscow has launched dozens of separate missile and drone strikes against the Ukrainian cities since the start of May.

The Ukrainian military authorities wrote on Telegram that Russia had launched drones and cruise missiles at the same time.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-it-has-destroyed-ukraines-last-remaining-warship-598736">Russia claims it has destroyed Ukraine's last remaining warship</a>

"According to preliminary information, more than 30 air targets of various types were detected and destroyed in the airspace over and around Kyiv by air defence forces," they said in an official statement.

There were no calls for rescue, Kyiv Mayor&nbsp;Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram.

"There were explosions in the city. The air defense is working. Another wave of UAVs is heading for Kyiv," Mayor Klitschko added.

<h2>Russia-Ukraine war: The present picture</h2>

The Ukrainian side has claimed that&nbsp;Russia has lost about 208,000 troops since the beginning of the war, according to Serhii Cherevatyi, spokesman for the Eastern Grouping of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The Kremlin has not responded to the Ukrainian claim of Russian losses in the war.

Also watch |&nbsp;Ukraine: Russia will simulate attack on Zaporizhzhia power plant | Russia-Ukraine War

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One of the strategic places Russian forces have controlled since nearly the beginning of the invasion is the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Other than that, Moscow says that it has been able to establish its control over Bakhmut while Kyiv says that the battle is still ongoing.

<h2>Russia-Ukraine war: More international sanctions on Moscow</h2>

Russia’s deputy security council chair and former president, Dmitry Medvedev has said the conflict in Ukraine could last for decades and that negotiations with Ukraine were impossible as long as Volodymyr Zelenskiy was in power.

Adding to a spree of west-imposed sanctions on Russia after the beginning of war in Ukraine, Japan announced that it will place additional sanctions on Russia. The development comes after Tokyo&nbsp;hosted Group of Seven (G7) summit in Hiroshima city&nbsp;last week. The grouping had&nbsp;agreed to step up measures against Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

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.

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Russia-Ukraine war showed no signs of de-escalation on Friday (June 2) as air raid sirens were heard across the war-torn east European nation, including in the capital Kyiv.

Russia-Ukraine war showed no signs of de-escalation on Friday (June 2) as air raid sirens were heard across the war-torn east European nation, including in the capital Kyiv. The officials in Kyiv claimed that they shot down 30 missiles and drones fired into the capital. Moscow has launched dozens of separate missile and drone strikes against the Ukrainian cities since the start of May. The Ukrainian military authorities wrote on Telegram that Russia had launched drones and cruise missiles at the same time. Also read | Russia claims it has destroyed Ukraine's last remaining warship "According to preliminary information, more than 30 air targets of various types were detected and destroyed in the airspace over and around Kyiv by air defence forces," they said in an official statement. There were no calls for rescue, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram. "There were explosions in the city. The air defense is working. Another wave of UAVs is heading for Kyiv," Mayor Klitschko added. Russia-Ukraine war: The present picture The Ukrainian side has claimed that Russia has lost about 208,000 troops since the beginning of the war, according to Serhii Cherevatyi, spokesman for the Eastern Grouping of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The Kremlin has not responded to the Ukrainian claim of Russian losses in the war. Also watch | Ukraine: Russia will simulate attack on Zaporizhzhia power plant | Russia-Ukraine War × One of the strategic places Russian forces have controlled since nearly the beginning of the invasion is the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Other than that, Moscow says that it has been able to establish its control over Bakhmut while Kyiv says that the battle is still ongoing. Russia-Ukraine war: More international sanctions on Moscow Russia’s deputy security council chair and former president, Dmitry Medvedev has said the conflict in Ukraine could last for decades and that negotiations with Ukraine were impossible as long as Volodymyr Zelenskiy was in power. Adding to a spree of west-imposed sanctions on Russia after the beginning of war in Ukraine, Japan announced that it will place additional sanctions on Russia. The development comes after Tokyo hosted Group of Seven (G7) summit in Hiroshima city last week. The grouping had agreed to step up measures against Russia. (With inputs from agencies) 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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kyiv alarmed by air raid sirens as Russia launches fresh wave of attacks

The foreign ministers of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) gathered Thursday in South Africa’s Cape Town for a two-day summit, with agendas of a common trade currency and expansion of the bloc on the table. However, the discussions were soon overshadowed by one burning question: Will South Africa host Russian President Vladimir Putin in August for the summit of BRICS heads of state slated to be held in&nbsp;Johannesburg?

<h2>Looking at legal options: South Africa</h2>

South Africa's Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor was quoted by Reuters as saying that her country was exploring legal options if Putin, declared a war criminal by the International Criminal Court and subjected to an arrest warrant, can travel to South Africa to attend the BRICS summit.&nbsp;

"Our government is currently looking at what the legal options are with respect to this matter," she told reporters, adding that an invitation has been issued to all BRICS heads of state.

The statement comes days after several media reports indicated that South Africa will issue blanket diplomatic immunity to all participants of the BRICS summit, paving the way for the Russian strongman to visit Johannesburg without any complications.

<h2>West’s hegemony challenged</h2>

Pandor, speaking on behalf of BRICS, emphasised the alliance's ambition to provide global leadership in a world marked by competition, geopolitical tensions, inequality, and declining global security. She highlighted the need for reforming global decision-making structures, including the United Nations Security Council, as the concentration of economic power leaves many nations vulnerable.

India’s Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar echoed this sentiment, emphasising that traditional approaches are insufficient for addressing new challenges. He said, “Old ways cannot address new situations. We are a symbol of change. We must act."

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Saudi Arabia wants to join BRICS

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Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused Western powers of using sanctions as a tool of colonialism and unfair suppression in the global power struggle. He criticised the practice, highlighting its impact on countries like his own.

<h2>Expansion of BRICS on the horizon</h2>

Pandor mentioned that exploring opportunities to reduce risks for BRICS institutions in the current financial landscape would be a priority. The leaders of BRICS have expressed openness to admitting new members, including oil-producing countries, and this expansion may be discussed during the ministers' gathering in Cape Town.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/brics-backed-new-development-bank-invites-saudi-arabia-to-join-the-club-598674">Also read:&nbsp;BRICS-backed New Development Bank invites Saudi Arabia to join the club</a>

The presence of Iranian and Saudi Arabian foreign ministers at the BRICS meeting in Cape Town indicates their interest in joining the alliance. Other countries, including Venezuela, Argentina, Algeria, and the United Arab Emirates, have also either formally applied or expressed interest in joining BRICS.

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The foreign ministers of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) gathered Thursday in South Africa’s Cape Town for a two-day summit, with agendas of a common trade currency and expansion of the bloc on the table.

The foreign ministers of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) gathered Thursday in South Africa’s Cape Town for a two-day summit, with agendas of a common trade currency and expansion of the bloc on the table. However, the discussions were soon overshadowed by one burning question: Will South Africa host Russian President Vladimir Putin in August for the summit of BRICS heads of state slated to be held in Johannesburg? Looking at legal options: South Africa South Africa's Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor was quoted by Reuters as saying that her country was exploring legal options if Putin, declared a war criminal by the International Criminal Court and subjected to an arrest warrant, can travel to South Africa to attend the BRICS summit. "Our government is currently looking at what the legal options are with respect to this matter," she told reporters, adding that an invitation has been issued to all BRICS heads of state. The statement comes days after several media reports indicated that South Africa will issue blanket diplomatic immunity to all participants of the BRICS summit, paving the way for the Russian strongman to visit Johannesburg without any complications. West’s hegemony challenged Pandor, speaking on behalf of BRICS, emphasised the alliance's ambition to provide global leadership in a world marked by competition, geopolitical tensions, inequality, and declining global security. She highlighted the need for reforming global decision-making structures, including the United Nations Security Council, as the concentration of economic power leaves many nations vulnerable. India’s Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar echoed this sentiment, emphasising that traditional approaches are insufficient for addressing new challenges. He said, “Old ways cannot address new situations. We are a symbol of change. We must act." Watch: Gravitas: Saudi Arabia wants to join BRICS × Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused Western powers of using sanctions as a tool of colonialism and unfair suppression in the global power struggle. He criticised the practice, highlighting its impact on countries like his own. Expansion of BRICS on the horizon Pandor mentioned that exploring opportunities to reduce risks for BRICS institutions in the current financial landscape would be a priority. The leaders of BRICS have expressed openness to admitting new members, including oil-producing countries, and this expansion may be discussed during the ministers' gathering in Cape Town. Also read: BRICS-backed New Development Bank invites Saudi Arabia to join the club The presence of Iranian and Saudi Arabian foreign ministers at the BRICS meeting in Cape Town indicates their interest in joining the alliance. Other countries, including Venezuela, Argentina, Algeria, and the United Arab Emirates, have also either formally applied or expressed interest in joining BRICS. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

'We must act': India's Jaishankar calls for change in world order at BRICS foreign ministers' summit

French President Emmanuel Macron is willing to make the hard choice. In a wide-ranging speech at an EU leaders' conference, Macron said it may not be possible to send Putin to face war crime trials when he is the only one that can negotiate an end to the Ukraine war.

French President Emmanuel Macron is willing to make the hard choice. In a wide-ranging speech at an EU leaders' conference, Macron said it may not be possible to send Putin to face war crime trials when he is the only one that can negotiate an end to the Ukraine war. In the frankest remark yet by a Western leader, Macron said it would be putting the stakeholders in an impossible situation if such a choice is not made. “The timing issue – and this is where I want to be very transparent and honest with you. The question is if in a few months to come, you have a window for negotiation with the existing Russian political power, the question will be an arbitrage between a trial and a negotiation, I will be very frank with you," said Macron. “And you will have to negotiate with the leaders you have, de facto, even if the day after you will have to judge them in front of them of the international justice. So this is a question of articulation. Because otherwise, you can put yourselves just in an impossible situation where you say: ‘I want you to go to jail, but you are the only one I can negotiate with,’” he added. Offer Ukraine security guarantees: Macron Earlier, Macron called on the West to offer Ukraine "tangible and credible" security guarantees as the war lingers. "We provide plenty of weapons to Ukraine, but we have not added it to any strategic security dialogue. If we want to carry weight with Russia, if we want to be credible to the Ukrainians, we must give Ukraine the means to prevent any further aggression and include it in sustainable security architecture," said Macron "That is why I'm in favour, and this will be the subject of collective talks in the following weeks...to offer tangible and credible security guarantees to Ukraine," he added. WATCH | NATO meet: Emmanuel Macron urges tangible security guarantees for Kyiv × Macron's clarity Macron, in recent months, has emerged as one of the few Western leaders that has absolute clarity regarding contentious global issues. After visiting China in April, Macron advised Europe saying it must strive for 'neutrality' on the Taiwan issue, adding that the bloc cannot be a follower of either the US or China. “The question Europeans need to answer...is it in our interest to accelerate [a crisis] on Taiwan? No. The worse thing would be to think that we Europeans must become followers on this topic and take our cue from the US agenda and a Chinese overreaction,” Macron told French business daily Les Echos and Politico on his plane journey back home. ALSO READ | Macron warns EU must not take US, China side on Taiwan issue after Beijing visit Even then, Macron cited the example of the Russia-Ukraine war where the EU, despite its relative cohesion, had not been able to resolve the situation. “Europeans cannot resolve the crisis in Ukraine; how can we credibly say on Taiwan, ‘watch out, if you do something wrong we will be there’? If you really want to increase tensions that’s the way to do it.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Faustian bargain? Negotiation with Putin more important than war crime trials, says Macron

Russian lawmakers on Tuesday (May 30) introduced a draft bill that would ban gender-affirming surgery. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, the draft bill was submitted by 400 members of the 450-seat lower house - the State Duma.

Russian lawmakers on Tuesday (May 30) introduced a draft bill that would ban gender-affirming surgery. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, the draft bill was submitted by 400 members of the 450-seat lower house - the State Duma. The bill would ban any gender-affirming surgery except the one intended to treat “congenital physiological anomalies.” The report said that such an exception would be regulated by dedicated medical panels that will be closely overseen by the government. The bill would also ban legal name and gender changes in public records and official documents. 'Bill intended to protect Russia with its culture, family values': Lawmaker Senior Russian lawmaker Pyotr Tolstoy, who is one of the authors of the draft bill, said on Tuesday the legislation is intended to protect Russia's cultural and family values and traditions and to stop the infiltration of the Western anti-family ideology. This bill is the latest step in a Kremlin-orchestrated crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights. It would certainly win quick approval by the State Duma and the upper house before Russian President Vladimir Putin signs it into law. It reflects an increasingly intolerant Kremlin stand on gender-related issues. President Putin, who has initiated constitutional changes, including an amendment defining marriage exclusively as a union between a man and a woman, has repeatedly mocked LGBTQ+ rights. On December 5 last year, Putin signed a law that significantly expanded restrictions on activities seen as promoting LGBT rights in the country. The Associated Press then reported that this law outlawed advertising, media and online resources, books, films, and theatre productions deemed to contain such “propaganda.” It also broadened the existing restrictions by banning information about gender transitions to be spread to minors and banning information deemed to be propaganda promoting paedophilia. The violations are punishable by fines and, if committed by non-residents, could lead to their expulsion from Russia. Rights groups hit out at the law as a state encouragement of homophobia, intolerance and discrimination. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia introduces draft bill to ban gender-affirming surgery

A woman who alleged that US President Joe Biden&nbsp;sexually assaulted her in 1993&nbsp;has sought Russian citizenship after defecting to the country. Ex-Senate staffer Tara Reade had made the accusations in 2020 when Biden was seeking a Democratic nomination for the president's post.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Reade, in an interview with the Russian state media, appeared alongside&nbsp;Maria Butina, a Russian lawmaker, who was&nbsp;imprisoned in Washington in 2018 for being an&nbsp;alleged spy and said she&nbsp;feels right at home in Moscow&nbsp;after fleeing the United States.&nbsp;

"When I got off the plane in Moscow, for the first time in a very long time I felt safe, and I felt heard and felt respected," said Reade, according to Sputnik News.&nbsp;

“I’m still kind of in a daze a bit but I feel very good. I feel very surrounded by protection and safety. And I just really so appreciate Maria and everyone who’s been giving me that at a time when it’s been very difficult to know if I’m safe or not," she added.

Reade requested Russian President Vladimir Putin to grant her citizenship, adding that she will remain a "good citizen".&nbsp;

"I'd like to apply for citizenship in Russia, from the president of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;I do promise to be a good citizen."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-the-us-prepared-to-fight-in-space-amid-threat-posed-by-provocative-russia-china-597928">WATCH |&nbsp;Is the U.S. prepared to fight in space amid threat posed by ‘provocative’ Russia &amp; China?</a>

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<h2>What were Reade's accusations?</h2>

Notably, in the run-up to the 2020 elections, Reade in an interview said the Democrat leader attempted to sexually assault her. Then a junior staffer, Reade was tasked with bringing Biden's gym bag to him in his Senate office when the incident occurred.&nbsp;

“l want to f— you,” the former staffer said Biden told her while pinning her up against the wall. She added that what happened next "happened very quickly".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-assault-accuser-calls-on-him-to-quit-us-presidential-race-297348">ALSO READ |&nbsp;Biden's assault accuser calls on him to quit US Presidential race&nbsp;</a>

“I remember being pushed up against the wall. The first thought I had was ‘Where’s the bag?’ which is an absurd thought, but that’s what I thought,” she said.

“He had his hands underneath my clothes, and it happened all at once, so when I tell about it, it’s hard because so many things were happening at once, it’s like my brain was trying to catch up to what was happening."

However, Biden denied all the allegations saying the incident never happened.&nbsp;

"It is not true. I'm saying unequivocally it never, never happened," he said.

Reade said she filed a complaint after the alleged incident, but no record of it has been found.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A woman who alleged that US President Joe Biden sexually assaulted her in 1993 has sought Russian citizenship after defecting to the country. Ex-Senate staffer Tara Reade had made the accusations in 2020 when Biden was seeking a Democratic nomination for the president's post.

A woman who alleged that US President Joe Biden sexually assaulted her in 1993 has sought Russian citizenship after defecting to the country. Ex-Senate staffer Tara Reade had made the accusations in 2020 when Biden was seeking a Democratic nomination for the president's post. Reade, in an interview with the Russian state media, appeared alongside Maria Butina, a Russian lawmaker, who was imprisoned in Washington in 2018 for being an alleged spy and said she feels right at home in Moscow after fleeing the United States. "When I got off the plane in Moscow, for the first time in a very long time I felt safe, and I felt heard and felt respected," said Reade, according to Sputnik News. “I’m still kind of in a daze a bit but I feel very good. I feel very surrounded by protection and safety. And I just really so appreciate Maria and everyone who’s been giving me that at a time when it’s been very difficult to know if I’m safe or not," she added. Reade requested Russian President Vladimir Putin to grant her citizenship, adding that she will remain a "good citizen". "I'd like to apply for citizenship in Russia, from the president of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin. I do promise to be a good citizen." WATCH | Is the U.S. prepared to fight in space amid threat posed by ‘provocative’ Russia & China? × What were Reade's accusations? Notably, in the run-up to the 2020 elections, Reade in an interview said the Democrat leader attempted to sexually assault her. Then a junior staffer, Reade was tasked with bringing Biden's gym bag to him in his Senate office when the incident occurred. “l want to f— you,” the former staffer said Biden told her while pinning her up against the wall. She added that what happened next "happened very quickly". ALSO READ | Biden's assault accuser calls on him to quit US Presidential race “I remember being pushed up against the wall. The first thought I had was ‘Where’s the bag?’ which is an absurd thought, but that’s what I thought,” she said. “He had his hands underneath my clothes, and it happened all at once, so when I tell about it, it’s hard because so many things were happening at once, it’s like my brain was trying to catch up to what was happening." However, Biden denied all the allegations saying the incident never happened. "It is not true. I'm saying unequivocally it never, never happened," he said. Reade said she filed a complaint after the alleged incident, but no record of it has been found. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Biden's sexual assault accuser calls on Putin for Russian citizenship after defecting

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday claimed that the rare drone attack on Moscow was in “response” to the missile strike against Ukraine's military intelligence agency.&nbsp;

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Speaking on Russian state television, Putin accused Ukraine of “terrorist activity” and “provoking us to respond with tit-for-tat measures” after the drone struck residential areas early Tuesday morning in Moscow, which he said were meant to “scare Russian citizens by hitting residential buildings.”

“A (Ukrainian) headquarters of military intelligence was struck two or three days ago,” Putin said.

"In response, the Kyiv regime chose a different path to frighten Russians," he added, referring to the attack on Moscow earlier.

Furthermore, Putin vowed to retaliate, which sparked fears in the West that Russia might be using this pretext for its own nuclear use.&nbsp;

The 70-year-old Russian leader said Moscow’s anti-air defences proved “satisfactory” but added that “there is still work to be done”, adding Russia had experienced similar problems at Hmeimim air base during its campaign supporting Bashar al-Assad’s government in the Syrian war.&nbsp;

<h2>Is Kyiv taking the war to Moscow? | Russia-Ukraine war</h2>

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The drone attack on Moscow came a day after Russia launched a barrage of aerial attacks on Kyiv, killing at least one person— the fourth attack in three days on Ukraine’s capital.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Russia claimed that it intercepted all eight of the Ukrainian drones aimed at Moscow and accused Kyiv of a "terrorist attack". There were no reports of deaths, but authorities said that the early morning attack injured two people, one of whom was hospitalised.&nbsp;

Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhailo Podolyak denied Kyiv's involvement in the attack, but Moscow has launched a probe into the incident as Russian forensic experts were seen in the capital, collecting what appears to be fragments of a drone.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 dir="ltr">US says it doesn’t back attacks inside Russia</h2>

The United States on Tuesday said that it doesn't support attacks in Moscow, but added that Russia bore responsibility for the war with Ukraine.

"As a general matter, we do not support attacks inside of Russia. We have been focused on providing Ukraine with the equipment and training they need to retake their own sovereign territory," a State Department spokesperson said.

The spokesperson added that the United States was still assessing what happened in Moscow, where residential buildings were hit for the first time since Russia invaded Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin blamed Kyiv.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday claimed that the rare drone attack on Moscow was in “response” to the missile strike against Ukraine's military intelligence agency.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday claimed that the rare drone attack on Moscow was in “response” to the missile strike against Ukraine's military intelligence agency. Speaking on Russian state television, Putin accused Ukraine of “terrorist activity” and “provoking us to respond with tit-for-tat measures” after the drone struck residential areas early Tuesday morning in Moscow, which he said were meant to “scare Russian citizens by hitting residential buildings.” “A (Ukrainian) headquarters of military intelligence was struck two or three days ago,” Putin said. "In response, the Kyiv regime chose a different path to frighten Russians," he added, referring to the attack on Moscow earlier. Furthermore, Putin vowed to retaliate, which sparked fears in the West that Russia might be using this pretext for its own nuclear use. The 70-year-old Russian leader said Moscow’s anti-air defences proved “satisfactory” but added that “there is still work to be done”, adding Russia had experienced similar problems at Hmeimim air base during its campaign supporting Bashar al-Assad’s government in the Syrian war. Is Kyiv taking the war to Moscow? | Russia-Ukraine war The drone attack on Moscow came a day after Russia launched a barrage of aerial attacks on Kyiv, killing at least one person— the fourth attack in three days on Ukraine’s capital. On Tuesday, Russia claimed that it intercepted all eight of the Ukrainian drones aimed at Moscow and accused Kyiv of a "terrorist attack". There were no reports of deaths, but authorities said that the early morning attack injured two people, one of whom was hospitalised. Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhailo Podolyak denied Kyiv's involvement in the attack, but Moscow has launched a probe into the incident as Russian forensic experts were seen in the capital, collecting what appears to be fragments of a drone. US says it doesn’t back attacks inside Russia The United States on Tuesday said that it doesn't support attacks in Moscow, but added that Russia bore responsibility for the war with Ukraine. "As a general matter, we do not support attacks inside of Russia. We have been focused on providing Ukraine with the equipment and training they need to retake their own sovereign territory," a State Department spokesperson said. The spokesperson added that the United States was still assessing what happened in Moscow, where residential buildings were hit for the first time since Russia invaded Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin blamed Kyiv. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Vladimir Putin vows ‘response’ to alleged Ukrainian drone attacks on Moscow

South Africa said it will be providing diplomatic immunity to all the participants, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, arriving in the country to take part in BRICS-related events.

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The Russian president, who is expected to attend the summit in August, is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for war crimes in relation to the Ukrainian invasion.&nbsp; The South African leadership had extended the invitation to Putin.

Being a member of the ICC, South Africa is obligated to arrest Putin if he attends the event.

However, the African country on Tuesday indicated that the 70-year-old would be protected by diplomatic immunity, which the government said is routine.

“This is a standard conferment of immunities that we do for all international conferences and summits held in South Africa irrespective of the level of participation,” the Department of International Relations and Cooperations said in the official notice said on Tuesday, reports Bloomberg.

The notice signed on May 19 and gazetted on May 22 states that Putin and his international counterparts will be granted immunities and privileges provided in terms of Section 6(1)(a) as per the Diplomatic Immunity and Privileges Act.&nbsp;

<h2>International Court warrant against Putin; South Africa due to host BRICS summit</h2>

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“The immunities are for the conference and not for specific individuals. They are meant to protect the conference and its attendees from the jurisdiction of the host country for the duration of the conference.”

From June 1-2, foreign ministers from the bloc, encompassing Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, will gather in the capital Cape Town,&nbsp;a Government Gazette published on Monday stated.&nbsp;

Following this, another BRICS-related event is scheduled to take place between August 22 and August 24 during which the heads of state of these countries will meet.&nbsp;

<h2 dir="ltr">Russia says Putin will attend BRICS meet</h2>

Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Tuesday announced that Russia will participate in the BRICS summit at an “appropriate level”.&nbsp;

"Russia will take part in this summit at a proper level," he said, while responding to a question about whether Putin will participate in the summit in South Africa, the state-run Tass news agency reported.

Peskov, however, did not give further details.&nbsp;

"Russia attributes great importance to the development of this integration format," the Kremlin Spokesman said, referring to BRICS.

<h2 dir="ltr">South Africa’s stand</h2>

During an interview with BBC last month, South Africa's ruling party, ANC's Secretary General Fikile Mbalula, asserted that they will not arrest Putin if he ever visits South Africa, adding that he is a head of the state.

The interview aired nearly two months after the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Putin in March.

In the interview, Mbalula stood firm in his position and said that it would not yield to external pressure, including from Western nations.

Mbalula also called out what he perceived as hypocrisy from the West, especially citing Iraq and Afghanistan.&nbsp;

He pointed out the alleged war crimes committed by Western countries like Britain and the United States and wondered why their leaders had not faced such consequences.

(With inputs from agencies)

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South Africa said it will be providing diplomatic immunity to all the participants, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, arriving in the country to take part in BRICS-related events.

South Africa said it will be providing diplomatic immunity to all the participants, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, arriving in the country to take part in BRICS-related events. The Russian president, who is expected to attend the summit in August, is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for war crimes in relation to the Ukrainian invasion. The South African leadership had extended the invitation to Putin. Being a member of the ICC, South Africa is obligated to arrest Putin if he attends the event. However, the African country on Tuesday indicated that the 70-year-old would be protected by diplomatic immunity, which the government said is routine. “This is a standard conferment of immunities that we do for all international conferences and summits held in South Africa irrespective of the level of participation,” the Department of International Relations and Cooperations said in the official notice said on Tuesday, reports Bloomberg. The notice signed on May 19 and gazetted on May 22 states that Putin and his international counterparts will be granted immunities and privileges provided in terms of Section 6(1)(a) as per the Diplomatic Immunity and Privileges Act. International Court warrant against Putin; South Africa due to host BRICS summit “The immunities are for the conference and not for specific individuals. They are meant to protect the conference and its attendees from the jurisdiction of the host country for the duration of the conference.” From June 1-2, foreign ministers from the bloc, encompassing Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, will gather in the capital Cape Town, a Government Gazette published on Monday stated. Following this, another BRICS-related event is scheduled to take place between August 22 and August 24 during which the heads of state of these countries will meet. Russia says Putin will attend BRICS meet Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Tuesday announced that Russia will participate in the BRICS summit at an “appropriate level”. "Russia will take part in this summit at a proper level," he said, while responding to a question about whether Putin will participate in the summit in South Africa, the state-run Tass news agency reported. Peskov, however, did not give further details. "Russia attributes great importance to the development of this integration format," the Kremlin Spokesman said, referring to BRICS. South Africa’s stand During an interview with BBC last month, South Africa's ruling party, ANC's Secretary General Fikile Mbalula, asserted that they will not arrest Putin if he ever visits South Africa, adding that he is a head of the state. The interview aired nearly two months after the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Putin in March. In the interview, Mbalula stood firm in his position and said that it would not yield to external pressure, including from Western nations. Mbalula also called out what he perceived as hypocrisy from the West, especially citing Iraq and Afghanistan. He pointed out the alleged war crimes committed by Western countries like Britain and the United States and wondered why their leaders had not faced such consequences. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

South Africa won’t arrest Vladimir Putin, to provide diplomatic immunity during BRICS event

The President of Belarus is offering nukes to any country that supports Russia. Will his offer find any takers? Was Lukashenko joking? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Lukashenko offers nukes to anyone who supports Russia

The Dutch authorities have seized land in Amsterdam that reportedly belongs to Jorrit Faassen, the former son-in-law of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The authorities from the Netherlands' National Office for Serious Fraud, Environmental Crime and Asset Confiscation took action on May 12 about a criminal investigation. The authorities have not provided any further details about the investigation.

The 1,432-square-metre&nbsp;plot is located in Duivendrecht, a village located about 6.4 kilometres (4 miles) from Amsterdam.

Faassen (42) is a Dutch businessman who was once married to Putin's elder daughter, Maria Vorontsova.

The Guardian reported that Faassen had bought the land for construction (though the nature of it has not been revealed) and applied for a license two years ago, but his permit was halted after Putin’invasion. The area's municipality reportedly stopped the project due to Faaseen's "close ties" with the Russian leader.

The seizure was the result of a joint investigation carried out by the Guardian newspaper, the independent Russian news site Proekt Media and an investigative journalism platform called Follow the Money.

It comes two months after the US announced the launch of a fresh crackdown on persons and states involved in evading anti-Russia sanctions.

<h2>Ukraine war: Who will donate F-16 jets to Kyiv? | Is Russia preparing to use its nukes?</h2>

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According to reports, the empty land was targeted by protesters immediately after Russia invaded Ukraine in early 2022. The agitators erected anti-Putin signs on the land and called on the Russian president to withdraw his troops from Ukraine and release jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny.

Putin’s daughters Vorontsova and Katerina Tikhonova were sanctioned by the European Union and the United States in April 2022 following the invasion of Ukraine.

However, The Guardian newspaper noted that Faassen is not named on any sanctions lists.

He is believed to have been recently questioned by authorities at a Dutch airport recently on suspicion of "sanctions evasion. Authorities had confiscated his mobile phone and laptop computer," Proekt Media reported.

<h2>Who is Jorrit Faassen?</h2>

According to a Dutch-based magazine Quote, Faassen was born in Leiderdorp in the Netherlands. He is the elder of two sons born to Jozef Faassen and Felicitas van de Stadt. His father was a naval officer in Willemstad, Curaçao until 1986, a colonel in the 1990s and then a head of department in the Royal Netherlands Navy.

It is claimed that Faasen married Putin’s daughter Vorontsova in 2008. Russian media said that the two share a young son together. It is unclear when Vorontsova and Faassen divorced.

An investigative report by Russia’s exiled independent news website Meduza and the US-funded broadcaster Current Time claimed that Vorontsova was in a relationship with a Russian energy company employee named Yevgeny Nagorny. She apparently gave birth to his child in 2017.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Dutch authorities have seized land in Amsterdam that reportedly belongs to Jorrit Faassen, the former son-in-law of Russian President Vladimir Putin. The authorities from the Netherlands' National Office for Serious Fraud, Environmental Crime and Asset Confiscation took action on May 12 about a criminal investigation.

The Dutch authorities have seized land in Amsterdam that reportedly belongs to Jorrit Faassen, the former son-in-law of Russian President Vladimir Putin. The authorities from the Netherlands' National Office for Serious Fraud, Environmental Crime and Asset Confiscation took action on May 12 about a criminal investigation. The authorities have not provided any further details about the investigation. The 1,432-square-metre plot is located in Duivendrecht, a village located about 6.4 kilometres (4 miles) from Amsterdam. Faassen (42) is a Dutch businessman who was once married to Putin's elder daughter, Maria Vorontsova. The Guardian reported that Faassen had bought the land for construction (though the nature of it has not been revealed) and applied for a license two years ago, but his permit was halted after Putin’invasion. The area's municipality reportedly stopped the project due to Faaseen's "close ties" with the Russian leader. The seizure was the result of a joint investigation carried out by the Guardian newspaper, the independent Russian news site Proekt Media and an investigative journalism platform called Follow the Money. It comes two months after the US announced the launch of a fresh crackdown on persons and states involved in evading anti-Russia sanctions. Ukraine war: Who will donate F-16 jets to Kyiv? | Is Russia preparing to use its nukes? According to reports, the empty land was targeted by protesters immediately after Russia invaded Ukraine in early 2022. The agitators erected anti-Putin signs on the land and called on the Russian president to withdraw his troops from Ukraine and release jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny. Putin’s daughters Vorontsova and Katerina Tikhonova were sanctioned by the European Union and the United States in April 2022 following the invasion of Ukraine. However, The Guardian newspaper noted that Faassen is not named on any sanctions lists. He is believed to have been recently questioned by authorities at a Dutch airport recently on suspicion of "sanctions evasion. Authorities had confiscated his mobile phone and laptop computer," Proekt Media reported. Who is Jorrit Faassen? According to a Dutch-based magazine Quote, Faassen was born in Leiderdorp in the Netherlands. He is the elder of two sons born to Jozef Faassen and Felicitas van de Stadt. His father was a naval officer in Willemstad, Curaçao until 1986, a colonel in the 1990s and then a head of department in the Royal Netherlands Navy. It is claimed that Faasen married Putin’s daughter Vorontsova in 2008. Russian media said that the two share a young son together. It is unclear when Vorontsova and Faassen divorced. An investigative report by Russia’s exiled independent news website Meduza and the US-funded broadcaster Current Time claimed that Vorontsova was in a relationship with a Russian energy company employee named Yevgeny Nagorny. She apparently gave birth to his child in 2017. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Dutch officials seize land of Vladimir Putin’s ex-son-in-law. Here are all details about Jorrit Faassen

After meeting Russian Premier Vladimir Putin, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has been taken to hospital in Moscow and is in critical condition. While the cause of his declining health is yet to be identified Lukashenko's political rival has now pointed a finger at the Kremlin alleging that the leader has been poisoned.

Belarusian President Lukashenko critically ill after meeting with Russian leader Putin

A top Ukrainian war chief has revealed that the war-torn nation is ready to launch its much-anticipated counter-offensive against Russian forces. Oleksiy Danilov, Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council, revealed in an interview with the BBC that the assault to reclaim territory from President Vladimir Putin's occupying forces could begin at any time, be it "tomorrow, the day after tomorrow or in a week".&nbsp;

A key figure in President Volodymyr Zelensky's de facto war cabinet, Danilov also confirmed that some Wagner mercenary forces were withdrawing from the city of Bakhmut — which has been the site of intense battle. However, he cautioned they were "regrouping to another three locations" and would continue their fight against Ukraine.

Responding to reports about the looming threat of nuclear weapons, Danilov said that he was "absolutely calm" about the deployment of nuclear weapons to Belarus by Russia and that it was not news to Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-schools-us-for-criticising-deployment-of-nuclear-weapons-in-belarus-597125">Moscow schools US for criticising deployment of nuclear weapons in Belarus</a>

<h2>Why did Ukraine wait so long to launch counter-offensive?</h2>

The country, as per reports, has been meticulously planning its counter-offensive for months, utilising the time to train troops and receive military equipment from Western allies.&nbsp;However, Russian forces have also been fortifying their defences in preparation for the upcoming counter-offensive.

For Ukraine, the stakes are high. The nation needs to show&nbsp;its citizens and Western allies it can break through Russian lines, overcome the military deadlock, and reclaim its sovereign territory.&nbsp;

Danilov emphasised the importance of avoiding mistakes and warned that the Ukraine government had "no right to make a mistake" as he believes this is a historic opportunity that Ukraine cannot afford to miss.

<h2>Is&nbsp;Ukraine ready for&nbsp;a counter-offensive?</h2>

When questioned about the readiness of Ukrainian forces for the offensive, Danilov stressed the troops'&nbsp;constant state of readiness, noting that their commitment to defending their country does not depend on time.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bill-gates-alleged-russian-lover-was-in-contact-with-kremlin-spy-report-597064">Bill Gates’ alleged Russian lover was in contact with a Kremlin spy: Report</a>

"We are always ready. The same as we were ready to defend our country at any time. And it is not a question of time," he said.

"We have to understand that that historic opportunity that is given to us – by God – to our country, we cannot lose, so we can truly become an independent, big European country," he added.

Dismissing speculations that the counter-offensive had already begun, the war chief clarified the Ukrainian armed forces have been engaged in demolishing Russian control centres and military equipment since February 24th 2022 — the start of Russia's invasion.&nbsp;

Emphasising the responsibility they have, he said that naming specific dates for the start of the offensive would be imprudent.

"It could happen tomorrow, the day after tomorrow or in a week."

"It would be weird if I were to name dates of the start of that or those events. That cannot be done…. We have a very responsible task before our country. And we understand that we have no right to make a mistake," he remarked.

Bakhmut, a key region in the ongoing conflict, has been the location of huge amounts of carnage and casualties.

Defending Ukraine's military's decision to fight for an extended period in Bakhmut, despite the heavy casualties, he said "Bakhmut is our land, our territory, and we must defend it."&nbsp;

"If we start leaving every settlement, that could get us to our western border, as Putin wanted from the first days of the war."&nbsp;Acknowledging that Ukraine currently controls only a small part of the city, Danilov&nbsp;emphasised the significant role Bakhmut has played in the war.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A top Ukrainian war chief has revealed that the war-torn nation is ready to launch its much-anticipated counter-offensive against Russian forces. Oleksiy Danilov, Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council, revealed in an interview with the BBC that the assault to reclaim territory from President Vladimir Putin's occupying forces could begin at any time, be it "tomorrow, the day after tomorrow or in a week".

A top Ukrainian war chief has revealed that the war-torn nation is ready to launch its much-anticipated counter-offensive against Russian forces. Oleksiy Danilov, Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council, revealed in an interview with the BBC that the assault to reclaim territory from President Vladimir Putin's occupying forces could begin at any time, be it "tomorrow, the day after tomorrow or in a week". A key figure in President Volodymyr Zelensky's de facto war cabinet, Danilov also confirmed that some Wagner mercenary forces were withdrawing from the city of Bakhmut — which has been the site of intense battle. However, he cautioned they were "regrouping to another three locations" and would continue their fight against Ukraine. Responding to reports about the looming threat of nuclear weapons, Danilov said that he was "absolutely calm" about the deployment of nuclear weapons to Belarus by Russia and that it was not news to Ukraine. Also read | Moscow schools US for criticising deployment of nuclear weapons in Belarus Why did Ukraine wait so long to launch counter-offensive? The country, as per reports, has been meticulously planning its counter-offensive for months, utilising the time to train troops and receive military equipment from Western allies. However, Russian forces have also been fortifying their defences in preparation for the upcoming counter-offensive. For Ukraine, the stakes are high. The nation needs to show its citizens and Western allies it can break through Russian lines, overcome the military deadlock, and reclaim its sovereign territory. Danilov emphasised the importance of avoiding mistakes and warned that the Ukraine government had "no right to make a mistake" as he believes this is a historic opportunity that Ukraine cannot afford to miss. Is Ukraine ready for a counter-offensive? When questioned about the readiness of Ukrainian forces for the offensive, Danilov stressed the troops' constant state of readiness, noting that their commitment to defending their country does not depend on time. Also read | Bill Gates’ alleged Russian lover was in contact with a Kremlin spy: Report "We are always ready. The same as we were ready to defend our country at any time. And it is not a question of time," he said. "We have to understand that that historic opportunity that is given to us – by God – to our country, we cannot lose, so we can truly become an independent, big European country," he added. Dismissing speculations that the counter-offensive had already begun, the war chief clarified the Ukrainian armed forces have been engaged in demolishing Russian control centres and military equipment since February 24th 2022 — the start of Russia's invasion. Emphasising the responsibility they have, he said that naming specific dates for the start of the offensive would be imprudent. "It could happen tomorrow, the day after tomorrow or in a week." "It would be weird if I were to name dates of the start of that or those events. That cannot be done…. We have a very responsible task before our country. And we understand that we have no right to make a mistake," he remarked. Bakhmut, a key region in the ongoing conflict, has been the location of huge amounts of carnage and casualties. Defending Ukraine's military's decision to fight for an extended period in Bakhmut, despite the heavy casualties, he said "Bakhmut is our land, our territory, and we must defend it." "If we start leaving every settlement, that could get us to our western border, as Putin wanted from the first days of the war." Acknowledging that Ukraine currently controls only a small part of the city, Danilov emphasised the significant role Bakhmut has played in the war. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kyiv's much-awaited counter-offensive can begin 'tomorrow, day after or in a week': Top Ukraine war chief

Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Sunday stated that he was convinced that senior officials in the Kremlin had prohibited any coverage of him on state media. He warned that this misleading strategy of withholding information would ultimately end up in a backlash, causing resentment among the Russian people in a matter of months.

<h2>Wagner chief and the&nbsp;taboos of Putin's Russia</h2>

Prigozhin, the founder of the Wagner mercenary group and a well-known figure in President Vladimir Putin's inner circle, has gained significant notoriety during the 15-month conflict in Ukraine. He has come up with&nbsp;infamous outbursts on several occasions, supposedly&nbsp;breaking&nbsp;the strict rules put in place by&nbsp;Putin.&nbsp;

In doing so, Prigozhin supposedly broke the taboos of Putin's Russia, and this is reflected by the fact that Russian state television ignored the fall of Bakhmut for 20 hours and downplayed Prigozhin's role in the significant victory while refraining from airing his victory speech.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-explains-from-hotdog-seller-to-putins-chef-all-you-need-to-know-about-wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-589373">Explained | From hotdog seller to Putin's chef, all you need to know about Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin</a>

<h2>Why would Russia blank someone from Putin's inner circle?</h2>

In recent months, 'Putin's chef' has gained notoriety for the brutal discipline of his mercenaries and his use of obscene language and prison slang directed at top military figures, including Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.

As per reports, because of this bad blood, after Prigozhin declared victory in Bakhmut, it took the Kremlin 10 hours to issue a brief statement congratulating Wagner and other armed forces units for "liberating" Artyomovsk, the Soviet-era name for Bakhmut used by Russia. However, even then the statement did not mention the Wagner chief by name.

What does the Wagner chief think about this ban?

Reuters reports that when questioned about the apparent ban on his coverage, Prigozhin humorously used a series of Russian proverbs to poke fun at those behind this purported ban and said: "What is forbidden is always sweeter."

He emphasised that Wagner, his mercenary group, was not something that could be easily concealed or dismissed by bureaucrats.

"Wagner is not a piece of slippery soap which the bureaucrats have got used to shoving all over the place; Wagner is an awl, a stiletto that you cannot hide," he said.&nbsp;

"I am absolutely convinced they have forbidden (coverage)."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-chief-vows-his-forces-will-leave-bakhmut-by-june-1-595235">Russia-Ukraine | Wagner chief vows his forces will handover Bakhmut to Russian army by June 1</a>

He warned that attempts to silence the discussion of Wagner would only provoke a strong reaction from the Russian people.

"That high-level bureaucrats, those very towers of the Kremlin, who are trying to shut the mouths of everyone so that they don't speak about Wagner, will only give another shove to the people."

Prigozhin predicted that within a couple of months, the people would respond to the suppression of information by those in power.&nbsp;

"In the long term - long term is two or three months - they will receive a finger-slap from the people for trying to shut everyone's mouths and ears," said the Wagner mercenary group founder.

Reuters reports that till now both the Kremlin and the defence ministry have chosen to ignore Prigozhin's outbursts, despite their apparent violation of the tightly controlled political system established by Putin since he assumed the presidency.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Sunday stated that he was convinced that senior officials in the Kremlin had prohibited any coverage of him on state media. He warned that this misleading strategy of withholding information would ultimately end up in a backlash, causing resentment among the Russian people in a matter of months.

Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Sunday stated that he was convinced that senior officials in the Kremlin had prohibited any coverage of him on state media. He warned that this misleading strategy of withholding information would ultimately end up in a backlash, causing resentment among the Russian people in a matter of months. Wagner chief and the taboos of Putin's Russia Prigozhin, the founder of the Wagner mercenary group and a well-known figure in President Vladimir Putin's inner circle, has gained significant notoriety during the 15-month conflict in Ukraine. He has come up with infamous outbursts on several occasions, supposedly breaking the strict rules put in place by Putin. In doing so, Prigozhin supposedly broke the taboos of Putin's Russia, and this is reflected by the fact that Russian state television ignored the fall of Bakhmut for 20 hours and downplayed Prigozhin's role in the significant victory while refraining from airing his victory speech. Also read | Explained | From hotdog seller to Putin's chef, all you need to know about Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin Why would Russia blank someone from Putin's inner circle? In recent months, 'Putin's chef' has gained notoriety for the brutal discipline of his mercenaries and his use of obscene language and prison slang directed at top military figures, including Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. As per reports, because of this bad blood, after Prigozhin declared victory in Bakhmut, it took the Kremlin 10 hours to issue a brief statement congratulating Wagner and other armed forces units for "liberating" Artyomovsk, the Soviet-era name for Bakhmut used by Russia. However, even then the statement did not mention the Wagner chief by name. What does the Wagner chief think about this ban? Reuters reports that when questioned about the apparent ban on his coverage, Prigozhin humorously used a series of Russian proverbs to poke fun at those behind this purported ban and said: "What is forbidden is always sweeter." He emphasised that Wagner, his mercenary group, was not something that could be easily concealed or dismissed by bureaucrats. "Wagner is not a piece of slippery soap which the bureaucrats have got used to shoving all over the place; Wagner is an awl, a stiletto that you cannot hide," he said. "I am absolutely convinced they have forbidden (coverage)." Also read | Russia-Ukraine | Wagner chief vows his forces will handover Bakhmut to Russian army by June 1 He warned that attempts to silence the discussion of Wagner would only provoke a strong reaction from the Russian people. "That high-level bureaucrats, those very towers of the Kremlin, who are trying to shut the mouths of everyone so that they don't speak about Wagner, will only give another shove to the people." Prigozhin predicted that within a couple of months, the people would respond to the suppression of information by those in power. "In the long term - long term is two or three months - they will receive a finger-slap from the people for trying to shut everyone's mouths and ears," said the Wagner mercenary group founder. Reuters reports that till now both the Kremlin and the defence ministry have chosen to ignore Prigozhin's outbursts, despite their apparent violation of the tightly controlled political system established by Putin since he assumed the presidency. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Wagner chief warns Kremlin, says blanking him out on state media will provoke backlash

Russian President Vladimir Putin's top ally Dmitry Medvedev has said that the war with Ukraine can last for decades and long periods of fighting can continue interspersed by truces, reported Russia's RIA news agency on Thursday. 
 
The report stated that former president and deputy chairman of Putin's Security Council Medvedev had made the statement during his visit to Vietnam. 
 
Medvedev is known for making hardline comments. Last month, he described Ukrainian authorities as an infection. 
 
"This conflict will last a very long time, most likely decades. As long as there is such a power in place, there will be, say, three years of truce, two years of conflict, and everything will be repeated,” RIA cited Medvedev as saying. 
 
Medvedev reiterated the claim of Moscow that Ukraine is a Nazi state. In January, Medvedev stated that if Russia was defeated, it would lead to a nuclear war.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-general-says-ukraine-shouldnt-use-us-weaponry-inside-russia-596571">US general says Ukraine shouldn't use US weaponry inside Russia</a>

<h2>Ukraine claims shooting down 10 missiles, 20 drones</h2>

Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials on Friday claimed that they shot down 10 missiles and 20 drones launched by Russia in overnight attacks that took place on the capital Kyiv as well as the city of Dnipro and eastern regions. 
 
This month, the missile and drone attacks on Ukraine have been intensified by Russia, mainly attacking infrastructure facilities and logistics before an expected Ukrainian counteroffensive. 
 
The Ukrainian air force stated that they shot down 10 missiles which were fired from the Caspian Sea, along with two reconnaissance drones and 23 Iranian-made Shahed drones. 
 
It stated that the Russians launched a total of 17 missiles and 31 drones during the attacks which began around 10:00 pm (1900 GMT) on Thursday and continued till 5&nbsp;am on Friday. 
 
Several missiles and drones hit targets in Kharkiv and Dnipropetrovsk regions, stated officials. 
 
"It was a very difficult night. It was loud — the enemy launched a massive attack on the region with missiles and drones," said Serhiy Lysak, the Dnipropetrovsk regional governor, on the Telegram messaging app. "Dnipro has suffered,” he added.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia Ukraine War | US: No signs of Russia prepping to use nukes | World News | WION

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Lysak stated that various cars, houses and private companies, including a gas station and a transport company, had been damaged. 
 
Officials in Kyiv stated that the roof of a private house and a shopping mall and several cars had been damaged. The governor of the Kharkiv region also stated that several private houses and industrial facilities were damaged. 
 
Russia which started its full-scale invasion 15 months ago has launched hundreds of missile attacks since last October aiming to destroy critical power facilities and infrastructure.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin's top ally Dmitry Medvedev has said that the war with Ukraine can last for decades and long periods of fighting can continue interspersed by truces, reported Russia's RIA news agency on Thursday.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's top ally Dmitry Medvedev has said that the war with Ukraine can last for decades and long periods of fighting can continue interspersed by truces, reported Russia's RIA news agency on Thursday. The report stated that former president and deputy chairman of Putin's Security Council Medvedev had made the statement during his visit to Vietnam. Medvedev is known for making hardline comments. Last month, he described Ukrainian authorities as an infection. "This conflict will last a very long time, most likely decades. As long as there is such a power in place, there will be, say, three years of truce, two years of conflict, and everything will be repeated,” RIA cited Medvedev as saying. Medvedev reiterated the claim of Moscow that Ukraine is a Nazi state. In January, Medvedev stated that if Russia was defeated, it would lead to a nuclear war. ALSO READ | US general says Ukraine shouldn't use US weaponry inside Russia Ukraine claims shooting down 10 missiles, 20 drones Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials on Friday claimed that they shot down 10 missiles and 20 drones launched by Russia in overnight attacks that took place on the capital Kyiv as well as the city of Dnipro and eastern regions. This month, the missile and drone attacks on Ukraine have been intensified by Russia, mainly attacking infrastructure facilities and logistics before an expected Ukrainian counteroffensive. The Ukrainian air force stated that they shot down 10 missiles which were fired from the Caspian Sea, along with two reconnaissance drones and 23 Iranian-made Shahed drones. It stated that the Russians launched a total of 17 missiles and 31 drones during the attacks which began around 10:00 pm (1900 GMT) on Thursday and continued till 5 am on Friday. Several missiles and drones hit targets in Kharkiv and Dnipropetrovsk regions, stated officials. "It was a very difficult night. It was loud — the enemy launched a massive attack on the region with missiles and drones," said Serhiy Lysak, the Dnipropetrovsk regional governor, on the Telegram messaging app. "Dnipro has suffered,” he added. WATCH | Russia Ukraine War | US: No signs of Russia prepping to use nukes | World News | WION Lysak stated that various cars, houses and private companies, including a gas station and a transport company, had been damaged. Officials in Kyiv stated that the roof of a private house and a shopping mall and several cars had been damaged. The governor of the Kharkiv region also stated that several private houses and industrial facilities were damaged. Russia which started its full-scale invasion 15 months ago has launched hundreds of missile attacks since last October aiming to destroy critical power facilities and infrastructure. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia-Ukraine war may continue for decades, says Putin ally Dmitry Medvedev

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz says he plans to speak to Russian President Vladimir Putin "in due course", holding out the prospect of resuming contact after a near-total breakdown in relations since the Ukraine war.

"My last telephone call was some time ago," Scholz told the Koelner Stadt-Anzeiger newspaper in an interview published Friday. "But I plan to speak to Putin again in due course."

The leaders last spoke by telephone in early December.&nbsp;

During that hour-long call, Scholz urged Putin to withdraw Moscow's troops from Ukraine, while the Russian leader accused the West of pursuing "destructive" policies.

Since then, tensions have only escalated between Moscow and Berlin, particularly over the decision by Scholz's government in January to allow German-made heavy battle tanks to be sent to Ukraine.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/worlds-fourth-largest-economy-germany-enters-recession-596490">Germany, world’s fourth-largest economy, enters recession</a>

In the interview, Scholz insisted that his aim remained to "actively support Ukraine", but "at the same to prevent a direct conflict between NATO and Russia".&nbsp;

"And never to act alone, but in close coordination with our friends and allies," he said.

Asked about the prospect of halting the conflict through negotiations, Scholz said that Putin had to understand that the war could not be ended by making "some kind of cold peace".

"For instance, by turning the current front line into the new 'border' between Russia and Ukraine," he said.

"Rather it is about a fair peace, and the prerequisite for that is the withdrawal of Russian troops," he added.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;South Korea, Germany to strengthen solidarity in Europe, Asia

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Ties between Russia and Germany plunged into a deep freeze after Moscow sent its forces into Ukraine in February last year.&nbsp;

The invasion, and Moscow's move to slash gas supplies to Europe, hit Germany particularly hard as the country had come to rely on inexpensive Russian energy to power its economy.

The conflict has prompted Germany to drop a traditionally pacifist stance, with Berlin sending a barrage of weaponry to help Kyiv in its fight against Moscow.&nbsp;

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German Chancellor Olaf Scholz says he plans to speak to Russian President Vladimir Putin "in due course", holding out the prospect of resuming contact after a near-total breakdown in relations since the Ukraine war.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz says he plans to speak to Russian President Vladimir Putin "in due course", holding out the prospect of resuming contact after a near-total breakdown in relations since the Ukraine war. "My last telephone call was some time ago," Scholz told the Koelner Stadt-Anzeiger newspaper in an interview published Friday. "But I plan to speak to Putin again in due course." The leaders last spoke by telephone in early December. During that hour-long call, Scholz urged Putin to withdraw Moscow's troops from Ukraine, while the Russian leader accused the West of pursuing "destructive" policies. Since then, tensions have only escalated between Moscow and Berlin, particularly over the decision by Scholz's government in January to allow German-made heavy battle tanks to be sent to Ukraine. ALSO READ | Germany, world’s fourth-largest economy, enters recession In the interview, Scholz insisted that his aim remained to "actively support Ukraine", but "at the same to prevent a direct conflict between NATO and Russia". "And never to act alone, but in close coordination with our friends and allies," he said. Asked about the prospect of halting the conflict through negotiations, Scholz said that Putin had to understand that the war could not be ended by making "some kind of cold peace". "For instance, by turning the current front line into the new 'border' between Russia and Ukraine," he said. "Rather it is about a fair peace, and the prerequisite for that is the withdrawal of Russian troops," he added. WATCH | South Korea, Germany to strengthen solidarity in Europe, Asia Ties between Russia and Germany plunged into a deep freeze after Moscow sent its forces into Ukraine in February last year. The invasion, and Moscow's move to slash gas supplies to Europe, hit Germany particularly hard as the country had come to rely on inexpensive Russian energy to power its economy. The conflict has prompted Germany to drop a traditionally pacifist stance, with Berlin sending a barrage of weaponry to help Kyiv in its fight against Moscow. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Amid recession, Germany's Scholz says plans to speak to Putin 'in due course'

Gazprom, the Russian energy behemoth, has experienced a significant decline in its net profit. On Tuesday, the company said that its profits have fallen by 41 per cent in the aftermath of the Ukraine conflict. This is primarily due to a tax hike.&nbsp;The company's financial report for 2022 reveals a profit of 1.2 trillion rubles ($15 billion), a substantial decrease from the 2.1 trillion rubles recorded in the previous year.

As per a statement by the company, due to the drop in profit, the board has recommended the withholding of dividend payouts.

<h2>What is behind the profit drop?</h2>

The company in a statement carried by Russian news agencies, revealed that the increase in tax payments during the second half of the year had a direct impact on profit margins.&nbsp;

"Profit margins were impacted by an increase in tax payments in the second half of the year," it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-100-us-and-eu-lawmakers-push-to-remove-sultan-al-jaber-as-cop28-head-595699">More than 100 US and EU lawmakers push to remove Sultan Al Jaber as COP28 head</a>

Gazprom's operations have been severely affected by Western sanctions, which have targeted the state-owned enterprise led by Alexei Miller, a close associate of President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

As a result, European imports of pipeline natural gas from Russia plunged by 55 per cent in 2022, according to the Gas Exporting Country Forum's report released this month.

<h2>How did Gazprom deal with the sanctions?</h2>

To counterbalance the limitations imposed by the European market, except for liquefied natural gas purchases, Gazprom as per the news agency AFP has strategically sought to pivot towards Asia. In this, China, in particular, has emerged as a crucial economic partner for Russia, especially since the West implemented unprecedented sanctions following Moscow's military intervention in Ukraine.

Gazprom announced in March that it had achieved a record in daily gas volumes supplied to China via the Power of Siberia pipeline. Furthermore, the total deliveries through the pipeline reached an all-time high of 15.5 billion cubic metres in the previous year.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-extends-wsj-journalist-evan-gershkovichs-detention-us-calls-for-immediate-release-595697">Russia extends WSJ journalist Evan Gershkovich’s detention, US calls for immediate release</a>

However, redirecting gas exports to new markets necessitates the construction of expensive infrastructure, a process that takes considerable time. As per the report, Gazprom anticipates commencing the construction of the 'Power of Siberia 2' pipeline in 2024. Gazprom which happens to own the largest gas reserves in the world, employs approximately half a million employees and thus remains a significant driving force behind Russia's economic growth.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Gazprom, the Russian energy behemoth, has experienced a significant decline in its net profit. On Tuesday, the company said that its profits have fallen by 41 per cent in the aftermath of the Ukraine conflict.

Gazprom, the Russian energy behemoth, has experienced a significant decline in its net profit. On Tuesday, the company said that its profits have fallen by 41 per cent in the aftermath of the Ukraine conflict. This is primarily due to a tax hike. The company's financial report for 2022 reveals a profit of 1.2 trillion rubles ($15 billion), a substantial decrease from the 2.1 trillion rubles recorded in the previous year. As per a statement by the company, due to the drop in profit, the board has recommended the withholding of dividend payouts. What is behind the profit drop? The company in a statement carried by Russian news agencies, revealed that the increase in tax payments during the second half of the year had a direct impact on profit margins. "Profit margins were impacted by an increase in tax payments in the second half of the year," it said. Also read | More than 100 US and EU lawmakers push to remove Sultan Al Jaber as COP28 head Gazprom's operations have been severely affected by Western sanctions, which have targeted the state-owned enterprise led by Alexei Miller, a close associate of President Vladimir Putin. As a result, European imports of pipeline natural gas from Russia plunged by 55 per cent in 2022, according to the Gas Exporting Country Forum's report released this month. How did Gazprom deal with the sanctions? To counterbalance the limitations imposed by the European market, except for liquefied natural gas purchases, Gazprom as per the news agency AFP has strategically sought to pivot towards Asia. In this, China, in particular, has emerged as a crucial economic partner for Russia, especially since the West implemented unprecedented sanctions following Moscow's military intervention in Ukraine. Gazprom announced in March that it had achieved a record in daily gas volumes supplied to China via the Power of Siberia pipeline. Furthermore, the total deliveries through the pipeline reached an all-time high of 15.5 billion cubic metres in the previous year. Also read | Russia extends WSJ journalist Evan Gershkovich’s detention, US calls for immediate release However, redirecting gas exports to new markets necessitates the construction of expensive infrastructure, a process that takes considerable time. As per the report, Gazprom anticipates commencing the construction of the 'Power of Siberia 2' pipeline in 2024. Gazprom which happens to own the largest gas reserves in the world, employs approximately half a million employees and thus remains a significant driving force behind Russia's economic growth. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine war affects Russian energy giant Gazprom's profits; net profit down by 41.4% in 2022

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of Russia's Wagner Group, on Monday (May 22nd) vowed that his troops will leave Bakhmut, handing over the control of the prized city to Russian forces from approximately&nbsp;around May 25 until June 1. The city, as per the Wagner chief's claims, was successfully taken over on Saturday (May 20th) after a months-long battle. However, Kyiv remains steadfast in its counter-claim that the battle for Bakhmut is still on.

Prigozhin said that "Wagner will leave Artemovsk from 25 May to 1 June". Bakhmut was previously known as Artemovsk. It was renamed by Ukraine.&nbsp;

As per an AFP report, he previously said that Wagner forces would pull out by May 25.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kiss-biden-on-top-of-his-head-wagner-chief-announces-russian-capture-of-bakhmut-kyiv-denies-594526">'Kiss Biden on top of his head', Wagner chief announces Russian capture of Bakhmut; Kyiv denies</a>

In an audio recording on Telegram, Wagner founder Prigozhin said that ahead of the transfer, Wagner has set up "defence lines" west of the city.

However, as per Ukraine, its troops are still advancing on the outskirts of Bakhmut. It said that its forces still controlled a corner of the eastern Ukrainian city and that the battles are ongoing.

Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin also congratulated Wagner and the Russian army on the alleged conquest.

"The fighting continues," said Ukraine's deputy defence minister Ganna Malyar. A day earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also stated that Bakhmut was "not occupied" by enemy Russia.&nbsp;

Malyar claimed that Kyiv's troops still retain control of the "Airplane" district of Bakhmut.&nbsp;

"The battle for the dominant heights on the flanks — north and south of the suburbs — continues," she added as per AFP.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shelling-briefly-knocks-out-power-at-ukraines-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-station-disaster-averted-595125">Shelling briefly knocks out power at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear station, disaster averted</a>

Zelensky reiterated that Russia has "not occupied" Bakhmut.

Both Russia and Ukraine have suffered huge losses in the battle for Bakhmut, which is considered the longest and bloodiest battle in Moscow's offensive on its neighbour.

The news agency reported&nbsp;that the Wagner chief in the audio clip on Telegram also remarked that if the Russian "ministry of defence does not have enough personnel, we have thousands of generals."

In recent months, Prigozhin has been embroiled in an increasingly public spat with the Russian military leadership. He has poured scathing criticism over Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Army Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov.&nbsp;

The Wagner chief has accused the army chiefs of being incompetent and causing Moscow large-scale losses in the conflict in Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of Russia's Wagner Group, on Monday (May 22nd) vowed that his troops will leave Bakhmut, handing over the control of the prized city to Russian forces from approximately around May 25 until June 1.

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of Russia's Wagner Group, on Monday (May 22nd) vowed that his troops will leave Bakhmut, handing over the control of the prized city to Russian forces from approximately around May 25 until June 1. The city, as per the Wagner chief's claims, was successfully taken over on Saturday (May 20th) after a months-long battle. However, Kyiv remains steadfast in its counter-claim that the battle for Bakhmut is still on. Prigozhin said that "Wagner will leave Artemovsk from 25 May to 1 June". Bakhmut was previously known as Artemovsk. It was renamed by Ukraine. As per an AFP report, he previously said that Wagner forces would pull out by May 25. Also read | 'Kiss Biden on top of his head', Wagner chief announces Russian capture of Bakhmut; Kyiv denies In an audio recording on Telegram, Wagner founder Prigozhin said that ahead of the transfer, Wagner has set up "defence lines" west of the city. However, as per Ukraine, its troops are still advancing on the outskirts of Bakhmut. It said that its forces still controlled a corner of the eastern Ukrainian city and that the battles are ongoing. Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin also congratulated Wagner and the Russian army on the alleged conquest. "The fighting continues," said Ukraine's deputy defence minister Ganna Malyar. A day earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also stated that Bakhmut was "not occupied" by enemy Russia. Malyar claimed that Kyiv's troops still retain control of the "Airplane" district of Bakhmut. "The battle for the dominant heights on the flanks — north and south of the suburbs — continues," she added as per AFP. Also read | Shelling briefly knocks out power at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear station, disaster averted Zelensky reiterated that Russia has "not occupied" Bakhmut. Both Russia and Ukraine have suffered huge losses in the battle for Bakhmut, which is considered the longest and bloodiest battle in Moscow's offensive on its neighbour. The news agency reported that the Wagner chief in the audio clip on Telegram also remarked that if the Russian "ministry of defence does not have enough personnel, we have thousands of generals." In recent months, Prigozhin has been embroiled in an increasingly public spat with the Russian military leadership. He has poured scathing criticism over Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Army Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov. The Wagner chief has accused the army chiefs of being incompetent and causing Moscow large-scale losses in the conflict in Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia-Ukraine | Wagner chief vows his forces will handover Bakhmut to Russian army by June 1

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said the country decided to cut crude production to support global oil prices. Speaking during a government meeting, Putin also assured the world that the oil situation remains stable.

"All our actions, including those related to voluntary production cuts, are connected with the need to support a certain price environment on global markets in contact with our partners in OPEC+," media reports quoted Putin as saying.&nbsp;

Russia, one of the largest oil producers, had&nbsp;promised to reduce its crude production by 500,000 barrels per&nbsp;day in March&nbsp;and maintain the same production levels&nbsp;for the rest of the year, as per a Bloomberg report.&nbsp;

"We are reducing production, but nevertheless it is at the required level," Putin added.&nbsp;

While Moscow had argued that the production cut was in retaliation to the Western sanctions, Putin's latest statement only complicates the real intention of the move.&nbsp;

The United States and Europe have accused Russia of weaponising energy to contain the West in its drive to weaken Moscow's military campaign in Ukraine.

Moscow, on the other hand, has accused the West of weaponising the dollar and financial systems such as the international payments mechanism SWIFT against Russia.

Nevertheless, market watchers have been skeptical about the level of Moscow's oil production cuts.&nbsp;

While Russia on Wednesday said it has reached the pledged curbs this month, the International Energy Agency (IEA), the energy watchdog, argued that Russia needs to cut its production by 300,000 barrels a day to reach the target this month.

“Indeed, Russia may be boosting volumes to make up for lost revenue,” a Bloomberg report quoted IEA as saying.

Last week, oil pricing benchmarks fell for a fourth consecutive week, the longest streak of weekly declines since September 2022, over fears of a US&nbsp;recession and risks of a historic default on government debt in early June. The price of Russian Urals flagship oil blend, denominated in roubles, fell&nbsp;below the breakeven level assumed for this year's federal budget, exacerbating already huge shortfall in the state coffers.

(With agency inputs)

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said the country decided to cut crude production to support global oil prices. Speaking during a government meeting, Putin also assured the world that the oil situation remains stable.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said the country decided to cut crude production to support global oil prices. Speaking during a government meeting, Putin also assured the world that the oil situation remains stable. "All our actions, including those related to voluntary production cuts, are connected with the need to support a certain price environment on global markets in contact with our partners in OPEC+," media reports quoted Putin as saying. Russia, one of the largest oil producers, had promised to reduce its crude production by 500,000 barrels per day in March and maintain the same production levels for the rest of the year, as per a Bloomberg report. "We are reducing production, but nevertheless it is at the required level," Putin added. While Moscow had argued that the production cut was in retaliation to the Western sanctions, Putin's latest statement only complicates the real intention of the move. The United States and Europe have accused Russia of weaponising energy to contain the West in its drive to weaken Moscow's military campaign in Ukraine. Moscow, on the other hand, has accused the West of weaponising the dollar and financial systems such as the international payments mechanism SWIFT against Russia. Nevertheless, market watchers have been skeptical about the level of Moscow's oil production cuts. While Russia on Wednesday said it has reached the pledged curbs this month, the International Energy Agency (IEA), the energy watchdog, argued that Russia needs to cut its production by 300,000 barrels a day to reach the target this month. “Indeed, Russia may be boosting volumes to make up for lost revenue,” a Bloomberg report quoted IEA as saying. Last week, oil pricing benchmarks fell for a fourth consecutive week, the longest streak of weekly declines since September 2022, over fears of a US recession and risks of a historic default on government debt in early June. The price of Russian Urals flagship oil blend, denominated in roubles, fell below the breakeven level assumed for this year's federal budget, exacerbating already huge shortfall in the state coffers. (With agency inputs)

'Situation stable': Vladimir Putin backs Russia's oil production cuts

In a rare announcement of its losses on the battlefield, Russia on Sunday said&nbsp;that two of its military commanders had been killed in combat near the frontline hotspot of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine.&nbsp;The nation also disclosed&nbsp;that its&nbsp;forces have&nbsp;struck Western arm depots and Ukrainian troops in the western&nbsp;city of Ternopil and the eastern town of Petropavlivka, reports AFP.

As per a Russian defence ministry statement published&nbsp;by the nation's news agencies, Russia's armed forces "delivered a strike with high-precision long-range air and sea-based weapons at the points of deployment of the Ukrainian armed forces."

"Places of storage of ammunition, weapons and military equipment received from Western countries," were also struck, it said.

<h2>Battlefield losses</h2>

The Russian defence ministry in a statement announced that Vyacheslav Makarov, the commander of the 4th motorised rifle brigade, and Yevgeny Brovko, deputy commander of the Army Corps for military-political work, had been killed in fighting in eastern Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-hails-germany-a-true-friend-and-reliable-ally-in-ukraines-war-against-russia-592309">Zelensky hails Germany a 'true friend and reliable ally' in Ukraine's war against Russia</a>

The military commanders were reportedly killed during clashes for control of Bakhmut in eastern Donetsk. The first, Colonel Makarov, died while his brigade was warding off attacks from Ukrainian troops in the south of Krasne. As the third attack was being repelled, he was seriously wounded and died while being evacuated from the battlefield.

"Two attacks of the enemy have been repelled," said the Russian ministry in a statement.&nbsp;

"As a third attack was being repelled, the brigade commander was seriously wounded and died during the evacuation from the battlefield."

The second commander, Brovko, died while repelling attacks by Ukrainian troops elsewhere. The ministry stated that he "died heroically, having received multiple shrapnel wounds"

Moscow also said that "assault detachments" — which, as per AFP, was a reference to the Wagner mercenary group — with the help of airborne forces, continued to fight for control of the western regions of Bakhmut.&nbsp;

The ministry said that all attacks by Ukrainian forces have been repelled. Referring to Bakhmut by its Russian name, it said: "Over the past day the enemy has made massive attempts to break through the defence of our troops to the north and south of Artemovsk."&nbsp;

Russia has remained tight-lipped about its losses in the ongoing Ukraine war. Last year, the nation's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, in an equally rare announcement, stated that 5,937 Russian soldiers had been killed in Ukraine. However, analysts claim that the actual figures are higher than those reported by Moscow.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a rare announcement of its losses on the battlefield, Russia on Sunday said that two of its military commanders had been killed in combat near the frontline hotspot of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine.

In a rare announcement of its losses on the battlefield, Russia on Sunday said that two of its military commanders had been killed in combat near the frontline hotspot of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine. The nation also disclosed that its forces have struck Western arm depots and Ukrainian troops in the western city of Ternopil and the eastern town of Petropavlivka, reports AFP. As per a Russian defence ministry statement published by the nation's news agencies, Russia's armed forces "delivered a strike with high-precision long-range air and sea-based weapons at the points of deployment of the Ukrainian armed forces." "Places of storage of ammunition, weapons and military equipment received from Western countries," were also struck, it said. Battlefield losses The Russian defence ministry in a statement announced that Vyacheslav Makarov, the commander of the 4th motorised rifle brigade, and Yevgeny Brovko, deputy commander of the Army Corps for military-political work, had been killed in fighting in eastern Ukraine. Also read | Zelensky hails Germany a 'true friend and reliable ally' in Ukraine's war against Russia The military commanders were reportedly killed during clashes for control of Bakhmut in eastern Donetsk. The first, Colonel Makarov, died while his brigade was warding off attacks from Ukrainian troops in the south of Krasne. As the third attack was being repelled, he was seriously wounded and died while being evacuated from the battlefield. "Two attacks of the enemy have been repelled," said the Russian ministry in a statement. "As a third attack was being repelled, the brigade commander was seriously wounded and died during the evacuation from the battlefield." The second commander, Brovko, died while repelling attacks by Ukrainian troops elsewhere. The ministry stated that he "died heroically, having received multiple shrapnel wounds" Moscow also said that "assault detachments" — which, as per AFP, was a reference to the Wagner mercenary group — with the help of airborne forces, continued to fight for control of the western regions of Bakhmut. The ministry said that all attacks by Ukrainian forces have been repelled. Referring to Bakhmut by its Russian name, it said: "Over the past day the enemy has made massive attempts to break through the defence of our troops to the north and south of Artemovsk." Russia has remained tight-lipped about its losses in the ongoing Ukraine war. Last year, the nation's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, in an equally rare announcement, stated that 5,937 Russian soldiers had been killed in Ukraine. However, analysts claim that the actual figures are higher than those reported by Moscow. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia's rare announcement of battlefield losses: Two commanders killed in Ukraine's Bakhmut

As per a report by the Russian news outlet Kommersant, four Russian military aircraft, including two fighter jets and two military helicopters, were shot down near the Ukrainian border on Saturday. The incident reportedly occurred in the Bryansk region, close to northeast Ukraine, and, if confirmed, would be a significant victory for Kyiv.

As per the report published on the Kommersant website, the raiding party reportedly comprised a Su-34 fighter bomber, a Su-35 fighter, and two Mi-8 helicopters.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-set-to-meet-pope-as-germany-announces-more-arms-for-ukraine-592061">'Moscow bound to lose', says Kyiv after Germany announces biggest arms package</a>

The aircraft were&nbsp;reportedly "shot down almost simultaneously" in the ambush. The fighter jets were allegedly intended to deliver a missile and bomb attack on targets in Ukraine's Chernihiv region, with the helicopters providing backup support and recovery for the fighter jet crews.

Kommersant claims that&nbsp;all four crews were killed in the incident.

"According to preliminary data ... the fighters were supposed to deliver a missile and bomb attack on targets in the Chernihiv region of Ukraine, and the helicopters were there to back them up - among other things to pick up the 'Su' crews if they were shot down."

Although Kommersant did not provide any evidence for the downing of four aircraft, other pro-war military bloggers have also made similar claims.&nbsp;

The Russian defence ministry is yet to make a statement about the crash or the alleged ambush.

However, the Russian state news agency TASS reported that a Russian Su-34 warplane has crashed in the Bryansk region. The report did not mention the cause of the crash.

Citing emergency services, TASS also reported that a helicopter had crashed near Klintsy — about 40km (25 miles) from the border — due to an engine fire. It made no mention of a second helicopter or the Su-35.&nbsp;

However, as per Reuters, a video posted on the Russian pro-war Telegram channel Voyenniy Osvedomitel appeared to show a helicopter exploding in mid-air, being thrown off course, and then plunging towards the ground in flames. The video's comment section reportedly suggest that the helicopter, a Mi-8, was shot down by a missile, which led to its crash.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-meets-pope-francis-as-italy-reiterates-its-support-592092">Zelensky asks Pope Francis to 'join' Kyiv's peace plan as Italy reiterates its support</a>

The Russian pro-war Telegram channel Voyenniy Osvedomitel suggested that an ambush with air defences had been staged, and the downed helicopters were Mi-8MTPR-1 electronic warfare craft, which can jam enemy radio and target signals.

"Most likely, the enemy staged an ambush with air defences previously transferred to a border zone close enough to hit our group," it said.

No official response from Ukraine has been made, but Mykhailo Podolyak, a senior adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy called the incident "Justice ... and instant karma" in a tweet.

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An air group of two SU fighter jets (34 and 35) and two support helicopters flew over the Bryansk region to launch a "missile-bomb attack" (officially) on the civilian population of Chernihiv region in Ukraine. The air group was destroyed by "unidentified persons." Justice, as it…
— Михайло Подоляк (@Podolyak_M) <a href="https://twitter.com/Podolyak_M/status/1657418501953318913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"An air group of two SU fighter jets (34 and 35) and two support helicopters flew over the Bryansk region to launch a "missile-bomb attack" (officially) on the civilian population of Chernihiv region in Ukraine. The air group was destroyed by "unidentified persons." Justice, as it is, and instant karma... "Killers on wings" were destroyed BEFORE the next crime would be committed...," he wrote.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As per a report by the Russian news outlet Kommersant, four Russian military aircraft, including two fighter jets and two military helicopters, were shot down near the Ukrainian border on Saturday.

As per a report by the Russian news outlet Kommersant, four Russian military aircraft, including two fighter jets and two military helicopters, were shot down near the Ukrainian border on Saturday. The incident reportedly occurred in the Bryansk region, close to northeast Ukraine, and, if confirmed, would be a significant victory for Kyiv. As per the report published on the Kommersant website, the raiding party reportedly comprised a Su-34 fighter bomber, a Su-35 fighter, and two Mi-8 helicopters. Also read | 'Moscow bound to lose', says Kyiv after Germany announces biggest arms package The aircraft were reportedly "shot down almost simultaneously" in the ambush. The fighter jets were allegedly intended to deliver a missile and bomb attack on targets in Ukraine's Chernihiv region, with the helicopters providing backup support and recovery for the fighter jet crews. Kommersant claims that all four crews were killed in the incident. "According to preliminary data ... the fighters were supposed to deliver a missile and bomb attack on targets in the Chernihiv region of Ukraine, and the helicopters were there to back them up - among other things to pick up the 'Su' crews if they were shot down." Although Kommersant did not provide any evidence for the downing of four aircraft, other pro-war military bloggers have also made similar claims. The Russian defence ministry is yet to make a statement about the crash or the alleged ambush. However, the Russian state news agency TASS reported that a Russian Su-34 warplane has crashed in the Bryansk region. The report did not mention the cause of the crash. Citing emergency services, TASS also reported that a helicopter had crashed near Klintsy — about 40km (25 miles) from the border — due to an engine fire. It made no mention of a second helicopter or the Su-35. However, as per Reuters, a video posted on the Russian pro-war Telegram channel Voyenniy Osvedomitel appeared to show a helicopter exploding in mid-air, being thrown off course, and then plunging towards the ground in flames. The video's comment section reportedly suggest that the helicopter, a Mi-8, was shot down by a missile, which led to its crash. Also read | Zelensky asks Pope Francis to 'join' Kyiv's peace plan as Italy reiterates its support The Russian pro-war Telegram channel Voyenniy Osvedomitel suggested that an ambush with air defences had been staged, and the downed helicopters were Mi-8MTPR-1 electronic warfare craft, which can jam enemy radio and target signals. "Most likely, the enemy staged an ambush with air defences previously transferred to a border zone close enough to hit our group," it said. No official response from Ukraine has been made, but Mykhailo Podolyak, a senior adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy called the incident "Justice ... and instant karma" in a tweet. An air group of two SU fighter jets (34 and 35) and two support helicopters flew over the Bryansk region to launch a "missile-bomb attack" (officially) on the civilian population of Chernihiv region in Ukraine. The air group was destroyed by "unidentified persons." Justice, as it… — Михайло Подоляк (@Podolyak_M) May 13, 2023 × "An air group of two SU fighter jets (34 and 35) and two support helicopters flew over the Bryansk region to launch a "missile-bomb attack" (officially) on the civilian population of Chernihiv region in Ukraine. The air group was destroyed by "unidentified persons." Justice, as it is, and instant karma... "Killers on wings" were destroyed BEFORE the next crime would be committed...," he wrote. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Four Russian aircraft on their way to bomb Ukraine's Chernihiv shot down, allegedly by Kyiv

A 60-year-old Russian woman was given a two-year suspended sentence by a court on Thursday (May 11) for leaving a note at the grave of Russian President Vladimir Putin's parents saying that they had raised "a freak and a murderer", reported multiple news outlets.

The prosecutors had sought three-year suspended sentence for Irina Tsybaneva.

She was charged with desecrating the grave in St Petersburg. The note referred Putin's mother and father as "the parents of a maniac".&nbsp;

"Death to Putin, you raised a freak and a murderer," the note said, urging the deceased parents to "take him with you".

According to SOTA news website, Tsybaneva will not appeal the verdict. Tsybaneva said that she wrote the note after she watched news about the war in Ukraine and "understood that everything is very scary, everything is very sad, and there are many dead", according to another news outlet, Mediazona.

Watch | China to send special Envoy to Ukraine, Russia; to intensify Ukraine 'peace effort'

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Russia had invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The Russian government has been hawkish about any opinion in the country against the war. The crackdown on dissent has been unseen since the Soviet era.

In a different case, a Russian government agency added Artur Smolyaninov to a list of "extremists and terrorists". A former consultant who advised the Ukrainian president's office was added to this list again.

In another case, a Russian military court sentenced a history teacher&nbsp;Nikita Tushkanov&nbsp;from Komi to five and a half&nbsp;years in prison. The sentence was handed for comments he made about explosion of the Kerch bridge which took place last year. Kerch bridge links Ukraine's Russia-annexed Crimean peninsula to mainland Russia.

Alexei Navalny, one of the most prominent critics of Vladimir Putin, is already in jail. He recently reported on Twitter that he had again been kept in solitary confinement punishment cell. He was released from one just days ago.

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&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

A 60-year-old Russian woman was given a two-year suspended sentence by a court on Thursday (May 11) for leaving a note at the grave of Russian President Vladimir Putin's parents saying that they had raised "a freak and a murderer", reported multiple news outlets.

A 60-year-old Russian woman was given a two-year suspended sentence by a court on Thursday (May 11) for leaving a note at the grave of Russian President Vladimir Putin's parents saying that they had raised "a freak and a murderer", reported multiple news outlets. The prosecutors had sought three-year suspended sentence for Irina Tsybaneva. She was charged with desecrating the grave in St Petersburg. The note referred Putin's mother and father as "the parents of a maniac". "Death to Putin, you raised a freak and a murderer," the note said, urging the deceased parents to "take him with you". According to SOTA news website, Tsybaneva will not appeal the verdict. Tsybaneva said that she wrote the note after she watched news about the war in Ukraine and "understood that everything is very scary, everything is very sad, and there are many dead", according to another news outlet, Mediazona. Watch | China to send special Envoy to Ukraine, Russia; to intensify Ukraine 'peace effort' × Russia had invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The Russian government has been hawkish about any opinion in the country against the war. The crackdown on dissent has been unseen since the Soviet era. In a different case, a Russian government agency added Artur Smolyaninov to a list of "extremists and terrorists". A former consultant who advised the Ukrainian president's office was added to this list again. In another case, a Russian military court sentenced a history teacher Nikita Tushkanov from Komi to five and a half years in prison. The sentence was handed for comments he made about explosion of the Kerch bridge which took place last year. Kerch bridge links Ukraine's Russia-annexed Crimean peninsula to mainland Russia. Alexei Navalny, one of the most prominent critics of Vladimir Putin, is already in jail. He recently reported on Twitter that he had again been kept in solitary confinement punishment cell. He was released from one just days ago. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

You raised a freak and murderer: Russian woman sentenced for note left at grave of Putin's parents

Russians celebrated World War II Victory Day as Moscow troops fight on in Ukraine, with President Vladimir Putin's call for "victory" in the ongoing war. Victory Day is marked to commemorate the sacrifices made by the Soviet Union during the "Great Patriotic War"&nbsp;of 1941-45. Records have revealed that around 27 million citizens died.&nbsp;

During the speech, Putin slammed the West, saying that they have "forgotten who defeated the monstrous global evil and the Western elites talk about their exclusivity, playoff people and provoke bloody conflicts, sow Russophobia and aggressive nationalism".&nbsp;

The parade and the speech were aimed at the West, but something else grabbed the headlines globally — a 'lonely' tank. The pared-down parade showcased military hardware, but there was no aviation and a single T-34 tank took part. Some users on social media called it a "lonely" tank.&nbsp;

Army personnel were in ceremonial uniforms and marched through Red Square to the soundtrack of a military brass band. After Putin's speech, a band struck up and the cannon fired a salute. Armoured vehicles and nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles followed later.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> Not a single tank passed through the parade in Moscow, except for the museum T-34, and there were no aircraft either. 
 
What happened? 😉 <a href="https://t.co/NeEiTGSLQC">pic.twitter.com/NeEiTGSLQC</a>
— Getty 🇺🇦 🔜 (@region776) <a href="https://twitter.com/region776/status/1655845622342369280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://t.co/9FLJGxgGgb">https://t.co/9FLJGxgGgb</a> That is one lonely old tank at Russia's Victory Day. <a href="https://t.co/xvcRIQF8oQ">pic.twitter.com/xvcRIQF8oQ</a>
— mrbrown (@mrbrown) <a href="https://twitter.com/mrbrown/status/1655920502672859137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In one year, Russia has approximately lost more than 1,937 tanks in the war. During the parade, a lonely T-34 showed up. 
 
From this to this.... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ukraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RussiaUkraineWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RussiaUkraineWar</a> <a href="https://t.co/e0emLHU1Ix">pic.twitter.com/e0emLHU1Ix</a>
— Bassel Doueik (@bassel_doueik) <a href="https://twitter.com/bassel_doueik/status/1655931731915198465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The West, which claims that Russia is running out of arms and ammunition, mocked Putin for the scaled-back parade, but some experts stated that Russia can't spare tanks and planes for their parade amid the invasion, which started last year on February 24.&nbsp;

Russia has often shown confidence over the victory, and Putin also said that the future of the country "rests on" soldiers fighting in Ukraine.&nbsp;

He further said that the world is at a "turning point", and a "war" was unleashed on Russia. He added: "Today civilisation is again at a decisive turning point. A war has been unleashed against our motherland." He called for Russia to be victorious: "For Russia, for our armed forces, for victory! Hurrah!"&nbsp;

He said, "I am convinced that the experience of solidarity and partnership during the years of struggle against a common threat is a support right now when the world is moving towards multipolarity."&nbsp;

He added that the "West has forgotten who defeated the monstrous global evil and the Western elites talk about their exclusivity, playoff people and provoke bloody conflicts, sow Russophobia and aggressive nationalism".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Russians celebrated World War II Victory Day as Moscow troops fight on in Ukraine, with President Vladimir Putin's call for "victory" in the ongoing war. Victory Day is marked to commemorate the sacrifices made by the Soviet Union during the "Great Patriotic War" of 1941-45.

Russians celebrated World War II Victory Day as Moscow troops fight on in Ukraine, with President Vladimir Putin's call for "victory" in the ongoing war. Victory Day is marked to commemorate the sacrifices made by the Soviet Union during the "Great Patriotic War" of 1941-45. Records have revealed that around 27 million citizens died. During the speech, Putin slammed the West, saying that they have "forgotten who defeated the monstrous global evil and the Western elites talk about their exclusivity, playoff people and provoke bloody conflicts, sow Russophobia and aggressive nationalism". The parade and the speech were aimed at the West, but something else grabbed the headlines globally — a 'lonely' tank. The pared-down parade showcased military hardware, but there was no aviation and a single T-34 tank took part. Some users on social media called it a "lonely" tank. Army personnel were in ceremonial uniforms and marched through Red Square to the soundtrack of a military brass band. After Putin's speech, a band struck up and the cannon fired a salute. Armoured vehicles and nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles followed later. #Russia Not a single tank passed through the parade in Moscow, except for the museum T-34, and there were no aircraft either. What happened? 😉 pic.twitter.com/NeEiTGSLQC — Getty 🇺🇦 🔜 (@region776) May 9, 2023 × https://t.co/9FLJGxgGgb That is one lonely old tank at Russia's Victory Day. pic.twitter.com/xvcRIQF8oQ — mrbrown (@mrbrown) May 9, 2023 × In one year, Russia has approximately lost more than 1,937 tanks in the war. During the parade, a lonely T-34 showed up. From this to this.... #Russia #ukraine #RussiaUkraineWar pic.twitter.com/e0emLHU1Ix — Bassel Doueik (@bassel_doueik) May 9, 2023 × The West, which claims that Russia is running out of arms and ammunition, mocked Putin for the scaled-back parade, but some experts stated that Russia can't spare tanks and planes for their parade amid the invasion, which started last year on February 24. Russia has often shown confidence over the victory, and Putin also said that the future of the country "rests on" soldiers fighting in Ukraine. He further said that the world is at a "turning point", and a "war" was unleashed on Russia. He added: "Today civilisation is again at a decisive turning point. A war has been unleashed against our motherland." He called for Russia to be victorious: "For Russia, for our armed forces, for victory! Hurrah!" He said, "I am convinced that the experience of solidarity and partnership during the years of struggle against a common threat is a support right now when the world is moving towards multipolarity." He added that the "West has forgotten who defeated the monstrous global evil and the Western elites talk about their exclusivity, playoff people and provoke bloody conflicts, sow Russophobia and aggressive nationalism". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Watch: Russia's 'lonely' T-34 tank during Victory Day parade mocked

Every year on May 9, Russia marks the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II with a parade of troops and sophisticated military hardware and public celebration. Watch this report for more details.

Victory Day in Russia: Moscow celebrates triumph over Nazi Germany

In light of "provocations" by Ukrainian forces, operations at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant have been suspended, according to a TASS state news agency report. The Moscow-installed governor of the Russia-controlled part of the surrounding region,&nbsp;Yevgeny Balitsky, cited concerns over Ukraine's anticipated counteroffensive to reclaim Russian-held territory, including areas in the Zaporizhzhia region. 
 
Due to this, Russian authorities have reportedly initiated evacuations. Rafael Grossi, head of the United Nations nuclear power watchdog, on Saturday, expressed concerns about the plant's safety, describing the situation as "potentially dangerous."

"The general situation in the area near the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous," said the IAEA chief, adding that he's concerned.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/2-year-old-ukrainian-refugee-receives-gift-of-sound-in-united-states-590366">Two-year-old Ukrainian refugee receives 'gift of sound' in United States</a>

"I’m extremely concerned about the very real nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant."&nbsp;

In response to the escalating situation, Russian officials have begun evacuating people from nearby areas. As per Reuters, approximately 3,000 people, including around 1,000 minors, have been evacuated from villages close to the front line.

Balitsky, the Moscow-installed governor, noted a rise in water levels in the nearby Kakhovka Reservoir, which he believes to be a manipulation. He did not provide further details on the matter.

"We've seen the level (of water in the nearby Kakhovka Reservoir) rise to 17.08 (metres). We realise that this is manipulation. The nuclear reactors have been suspended," he said as per TASS.

According to an AFP report, Ivan Fedorov, the mayor of Melitopol in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, said that the evacuation directive has resulted in "a mad panic and no less mad queues" at the checkpoint leading to Russian-annexed Crimea.

With buses making frequent trips transporting individuals out fuel stations have reportedly been "drained" of gasoline.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-russian-flags-at-memorials-on-ww2-anniversary-says-berlin-court-590397">No Russian flags at memorials on WW2 anniversary, rules Berlin court</a>

Expressing concerns on Telegram, Fedorov stated: "The partial evacuation they announced is going too fast, and there is a possibility that they may be preparing for provocations and (for that reason) focusing on civilians."

The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, which happens to be Europe's largest nuclear energy facility, was seized by Russia during the early stages of its invasion of Ukraine that began in February of last year. Despite all six reactors being in "cold shutdown" and not generating electricity, they still contain nuclear material.&nbsp;

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), led by Grossi, has previously issued warnings about the plant's safety following temporary power cuts caused by shelling. In March, the IAEA cautioned that the facility was relying on diesel generators to maintain crucial cooling systems due to damage to power lines.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In light of "provocations" by Ukrainian forces, operations at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant have been suspended, according to a TASS state news agency report. The Moscow-installed governor of the Russia-controlled part of the surrounding region, Yevgeny Balitsky, cited concerns over Ukraine's anticipated counteroffensive to reclaim Russian-held territory, including areas in the Zaporizhzhia region.

In light of "provocations" by Ukrainian forces, operations at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant have been suspended, according to a TASS state news agency report. The Moscow-installed governor of the Russia-controlled part of the surrounding region, Yevgeny Balitsky, cited concerns over Ukraine's anticipated counteroffensive to reclaim Russian-held territory, including areas in the Zaporizhzhia region. Due to this, Russian authorities have reportedly initiated evacuations. Rafael Grossi, head of the United Nations nuclear power watchdog, on Saturday, expressed concerns about the plant's safety, describing the situation as "potentially dangerous." "The general situation in the area near the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous," said the IAEA chief, adding that he's concerned. Also read | Two-year-old Ukrainian refugee receives 'gift of sound' in United States "I’m extremely concerned about the very real nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant." In response to the escalating situation, Russian officials have begun evacuating people from nearby areas. As per Reuters, approximately 3,000 people, including around 1,000 minors, have been evacuated from villages close to the front line. Balitsky, the Moscow-installed governor, noted a rise in water levels in the nearby Kakhovka Reservoir, which he believes to be a manipulation. He did not provide further details on the matter. "We've seen the level (of water in the nearby Kakhovka Reservoir) rise to 17.08 (metres). We realise that this is manipulation. The nuclear reactors have been suspended," he said as per TASS. According to an AFP report, Ivan Fedorov, the mayor of Melitopol in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, said that the evacuation directive has resulted in "a mad panic and no less mad queues" at the checkpoint leading to Russian-annexed Crimea. With buses making frequent trips transporting individuals out fuel stations have reportedly been "drained" of gasoline. Also read | No Russian flags at memorials on WW2 anniversary, rules Berlin court Expressing concerns on Telegram, Fedorov stated: "The partial evacuation they announced is going too fast, and there is a possibility that they may be preparing for provocations and (for that reason) focusing on civilians." The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, which happens to be Europe's largest nuclear energy facility, was seized by Russia during the early stages of its invasion of Ukraine that began in February of last year. Despite all six reactors being in "cold shutdown" and not generating electricity, they still contain nuclear material. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), led by Grossi, has previously issued warnings about the plant's safety following temporary power cuts caused by shelling. In March, the IAEA cautioned that the facility was relying on diesel generators to maintain crucial cooling systems due to damage to power lines. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia suspends operations at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, evacuates civilians amid threat of 'provocation'

In photos | Russia holds Victory Day parade amid shadow of Ukraine war

Every year on May 9, Russia marks the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II with a parade of troops and sophisticated military hardware and public celebration. Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the gathering evoking nationalism and stating that the nation is at war.

Nazis across the world want to destroy us, says Russian President Putin

A Ukrainian refugee family that escaped the war in their home country and fled to the United States has received the miracle they were hoping for their toddler, the 'gift of sound'.

In a heartwarming story of hope, a young Ukrainian war refugee named Zlata has been given the gift of sound by a team of dedicated doctors in South Carolina. Zlata, who was born deaf, received a cochlear implant that has allowed her to hear for the first time in her life.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-food-no-water-only-wine-48-year-old-woman-miraculously-survives-five-days-in-bush-590286">No food, no water, only wine: 48-year-old woman miraculously survives five days in bush</a>

Parents Diana Kuzmina and her husband Olech Kuzmin as per CBS were for months haunted by the fear that their young daughter, two-year-old Zlata Kuzmina, was completely deaf and would forever be denied the sense many of us take for granted.

Thanks to a "very nice" doctor, the toddler can now hear.

The family travelled from their home in Odesa, Ukraine, to the United States. The trip, which took nearly two months, had them stay in Moldova, the Czech Republic, Poland and Germany, before finally settling in Boiling Springs, South Carolina.&nbsp;

Once in the US, the father Oleh Kuzmin landed a job at a nearby BMW plant, and as per his wife Diana Kuzmina, the miracle happened because "a lot of people prayed for us and God sent us a very good team and a very nice doctor."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-rejecting-worlds-most-progressive-constitution-chile-elects-right-wing-parties-to-rewrite-charter-590276">Chile elects right-wing parties to rewrite constitution after rejecting 'world's most progressive' charter</a>

CBS identifies the "very nice doctor" as Dr Teddy McRackan, a surgeon and cochlear implant specialist.&nbsp;

Upon running a spate of diagnostics, McRackan and his team at the Medical University of South Carolina found that the two-year-old girl was deaf in her left ear, but that "she was responding at very, very loud levels to noise in that right ear."

In a procedure done at the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital, a cochlear implant was placed in Zlata's ear. But there was still no guarantee that the little Ukrainian refugee would be able to hear.

After a month of waiting for the surgical incision to heal, in April, the implant was turned on and they found that the procedure was a success. Although Zlata's deafness is not completely cured, the device attached to her head, and the implant enables her to hear.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Ukrainian refugee family that escaped the war in their home country and fled to the United States has received the miracle they were hoping for their toddler, the 'gift of sound'.

A Ukrainian refugee family that escaped the war in their home country and fled to the United States has received the miracle they were hoping for their toddler, the 'gift of sound'. In a heartwarming story of hope, a young Ukrainian war refugee named Zlata has been given the gift of sound by a team of dedicated doctors in South Carolina. Zlata, who was born deaf, received a cochlear implant that has allowed her to hear for the first time in her life. Also read | No food, no water, only wine: 48-year-old woman miraculously survives five days in bush Parents Diana Kuzmina and her husband Olech Kuzmin as per CBS were for months haunted by the fear that their young daughter, two-year-old Zlata Kuzmina, was completely deaf and would forever be denied the sense many of us take for granted. Thanks to a "very nice" doctor, the toddler can now hear. The family travelled from their home in Odesa, Ukraine, to the United States. The trip, which took nearly two months, had them stay in Moldova, the Czech Republic, Poland and Germany, before finally settling in Boiling Springs, South Carolina. Once in the US, the father Oleh Kuzmin landed a job at a nearby BMW plant, and as per his wife Diana Kuzmina, the miracle happened because "a lot of people prayed for us and God sent us a very good team and a very nice doctor." Also read | Chile elects right-wing parties to rewrite constitution after rejecting 'world's most progressive' charter CBS identifies the "very nice doctor" as Dr Teddy McRackan, a surgeon and cochlear implant specialist. Upon running a spate of diagnostics, McRackan and his team at the Medical University of South Carolina found that the two-year-old girl was deaf in her left ear, but that "she was responding at very, very loud levels to noise in that right ear." In a procedure done at the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital, a cochlear implant was placed in Zlata's ear. But there was still no guarantee that the little Ukrainian refugee would be able to hear. After a month of waiting for the surgical incision to heal, in April, the implant was turned on and they found that the procedure was a success. Although Zlata's deafness is not completely cured, the device attached to her head, and the implant enables her to hear. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Two-year-old Ukrainian refugee receives 'gift of sound' in United States

Russian mercenary Wagner Group's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Friday threatened to pull his frontline troops out of Bakhmut. In a series of scathing videos, the Wagner chief blamed Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov for "tens of thousands" of killed and wounded Russian fighters in Ukraine. Ahead of an expected Ukrainian offensive, Prigozhin's extraordinary attack on military chiefs, as per AFP, has exposed a deep rift in Russian ranks.

Vowing to hold the generals to account for their failure to provide his fighters with sufficient ammunition, the paramilitary leader said: "For the tens of thousands killed and wounded, they will bear responsibility in front of their mothers and children, I will achieve that."

"Their unprofessionalism is destroying tens of thousands of Russian guys and that is unforgivable," he added.

Here's all you need to know about Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and his anger at Russian generals.&nbsp;

<h2>Who is Yevgeny Prigozhin?</h2>

Yevgeny Viktorovich Prigozhin is a Russian oligarch and a confidant of President Vladimir Putin, who is often called "Putin's chef."&nbsp;

His nickname stems from the fact that he owns restaurants and catering companies that provide services for the Kremlin.

The Wagner chief started his career as a petty criminal and even spent a decade behind bars for crime. Released from jail in 1990, he started selling hotdogs and before long owned a chain of supermarkets, before opening a restaurant called the Old Customs House which became&nbsp;one of Putin's favourite haunts.

<h2>Prigozhin and Putin</h2>

As per the Guardian, the Wagner chief and the Russian President met back when Putin was deputy mayor of St Petersburg, serving under the-then mayor, Anatoly Sobchak.

Putin was reportedly a frequent patron of&nbsp;Prigozhin's restaurant, Old Customs House, on St Petersburg's Vasilievsky Island; even after ascending to the post of Russian President, he would often take his guests to the restaurant, which by then had been turned into a floating restaurant.&nbsp;

He would soon go on to win contracts and cater for major government events through Concord, a holding company he had set up back in the 1990s. Next, he would win giant government supply contracts worth billions of roubles to provide food to Moscow’s schools and eventually the army.

In 2014, he founded Wagner to support Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine.

As Prigozhin describes it: "I cleaned the old weapons myself, sorted out the bulletproof vests myself and found specialists who could help me with this. From that moment, on 1 May 2014, a group of patriots was born, which later came to be called the Wagner Battalion."&nbsp;

"I am proud that I was able to defend their right to protect the interests of their country," he added in the September 2022 statement, posted by his catering company, Concord.

<h2>The Wagner Group</h2>

Prigozhin controls a network of influential companies and is the founder of the Russian state-backed mercenary company Wagner Group.&nbsp;

The group, as per the Business Insider report, has played a significant role in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and was reportedly deployed to assassinate Ukrainian leaders. As per Russian media outlet Mediazona, the Wagner group has also been recruiting prisoners for frontline combat.

Wagner Group's&nbsp;ranks according to Western intelligence estimates have ballooned to about 50,000. This includes tens of thousands of ex-prisoners recruited from jails around Russia, often personally by Prigozhin.

The group has been accused of committing human rights abuses in Ukraine, Syria, Libya, Central African Republic, Sudan and Mozambique.

As per a report by Polygraph, Prigozhin also controls three companies that have been accused of interference in the 2016 and 2018 US elections. For the alleged influencing of elections, Prigozhin, along with six other individuals was even (re) designated under the Specially Designated Nationals And Blocked Persons List (SDN).

<h2>Prigozhin’s anger at&nbsp;Russian generals</h2>

The Wagner chief in a series of scathing videos has threatened to pull out his&nbsp;troops from Bakhmut.

"I will pull out Wagner units from Bakhmut because, in the absence of ammunition, they are facing a senseless death," said Prigozhin in a recently released video statement. He added that he was now expecting a plan from the military on how to implement the withdrawal.

As per AFP, while Prigozhin has made similar threats to pull out in the past, the emotive language and the scathing personal criticism of the leaders of Russia's campaign in Ukraine were unprecedented.

The Wagner chief claims that Russian generals are "withholding" ammunition urgently needed by his men. In February of this year, he had even termed the withholding of munition supplies as "treason".

Previously, in December 2022, he accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of cutting him off completely and said that he has been unable to get through to anyone at the Kremlin.

On his Telegram channel, he said, "To get me to stop asking for ammunition, all the hotlines to offices, to departments etc., have been cut off from me. But the real humdinger is that they’ve also blocked agencies from making decisions [related to Wagner]."

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Russian mercenary Wagner Group's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Friday threatened to pull his frontline troops out of Bakhmut. In a series of scathing videos, the Wagner chief blamed Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov for "tens of thousands" of killed and wounded Russian fighters in Ukraine.

Russian mercenary Wagner Group's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Friday threatened to pull his frontline troops out of Bakhmut. In a series of scathing videos, the Wagner chief blamed Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov for "tens of thousands" of killed and wounded Russian fighters in Ukraine. Ahead of an expected Ukrainian offensive, Prigozhin's extraordinary attack on military chiefs, as per AFP, has exposed a deep rift in Russian ranks. Vowing to hold the generals to account for their failure to provide his fighters with sufficient ammunition, the paramilitary leader said: "For the tens of thousands killed and wounded, they will bear responsibility in front of their mothers and children, I will achieve that." "Their unprofessionalism is destroying tens of thousands of Russian guys and that is unforgivable," he added. Here's all you need to know about Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and his anger at Russian generals. Who is Yevgeny Prigozhin? Yevgeny Viktorovich Prigozhin is a Russian oligarch and a confidant of President Vladimir Putin, who is often called "Putin's chef." His nickname stems from the fact that he owns restaurants and catering companies that provide services for the Kremlin. The Wagner chief started his career as a petty criminal and even spent a decade behind bars for crime. Released from jail in 1990, he started selling hotdogs and before long owned a chain of supermarkets, before opening a restaurant called the Old Customs House which became one of Putin's favourite haunts. Prigozhin and Putin As per the Guardian, the Wagner chief and the Russian President met back when Putin was deputy mayor of St Petersburg, serving under the-then mayor, Anatoly Sobchak. Putin was reportedly a frequent patron of Prigozhin's restaurant, Old Customs House, on St Petersburg's Vasilievsky Island; even after ascending to the post of Russian President, he would often take his guests to the restaurant, which by then had been turned into a floating restaurant. He would soon go on to win contracts and cater for major government events through Concord, a holding company he had set up back in the 1990s. Next, he would win giant government supply contracts worth billions of roubles to provide food to Moscow’s schools and eventually the army. In 2014, he founded Wagner to support Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine. As Prigozhin describes it: "I cleaned the old weapons myself, sorted out the bulletproof vests myself and found specialists who could help me with this. From that moment, on 1 May 2014, a group of patriots was born, which later came to be called the Wagner Battalion." "I am proud that I was able to defend their right to protect the interests of their country," he added in the September 2022 statement, posted by his catering company, Concord. The Wagner Group Prigozhin controls a network of influential companies and is the founder of the Russian state-backed mercenary company Wagner Group. The group, as per the Business Insider report, has played a significant role in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and was reportedly deployed to assassinate Ukrainian leaders. As per Russian media outlet Mediazona, the Wagner group has also been recruiting prisoners for frontline combat. Wagner Group's ranks according to Western intelligence estimates have ballooned to about 50,000. This includes tens of thousands of ex-prisoners recruited from jails around Russia, often personally by Prigozhin. The group has been accused of committing human rights abuses in Ukraine, Syria, Libya, Central African Republic, Sudan and Mozambique. As per a report by Polygraph, Prigozhin also controls three companies that have been accused of interference in the 2016 and 2018 US elections. For the alleged influencing of elections, Prigozhin, along with six other individuals was even (re) designated under the Specially Designated Nationals And Blocked Persons List (SDN). Prigozhin’s anger at Russian generals The Wagner chief in a series of scathing videos has threatened to pull out his troops from Bakhmut. "I will pull out Wagner units from Bakhmut because, in the absence of ammunition, they are facing a senseless death," said Prigozhin in a recently released video statement. He added that he was now expecting a plan from the military on how to implement the withdrawal. As per AFP, while Prigozhin has made similar threats to pull out in the past, the emotive language and the scathing personal criticism of the leaders of Russia's campaign in Ukraine were unprecedented. The Wagner chief claims that Russian generals are "withholding" ammunition urgently needed by his men. In February of this year, he had even termed the withholding of munition supplies as "treason". Previously, in December 2022, he accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of cutting him off completely and said that he has been unable to get through to anyone at the Kremlin. On his Telegram channel, he said, "To get me to stop asking for ammunition, all the hotlines to offices, to departments etc., have been cut off from me. But the real humdinger is that they’ve also blocked agencies from making decisions [related to Wagner]." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | From hotdog seller to Putin's chef, all you need to know about Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin

Russian president Vladimir Putin told Bill Clinton three years prior to his 2014 attack&nbsp;on Ukraine that he was not obligated by the Budapest Memorandum's guarantee of the nation's territorial integrity, according to the former US President.&nbsp;The disclosure&nbsp;raises concerns about whether the US and its European allies may have been better prepared for the attack in 2014 when Russia invaded the Donbas&nbsp;and annexed Crimea.

At the 2011 World Economic Forum in Davos, Clinton claimed to have spoken with the Russian president. During the discussion, Putin brought up the 1994 Memorandum,&nbsp;which required Ukraine, Belarus, and Kazakhstan to give up the nuclear arsenals they had received from the Soviet Union in exchange for assurance&nbsp;that their sovereignty would be respected "within existing borders."

Boris Yeltsin signed it on behalf of Russia, Bill Clinton on behalf of the US, and John Major on behalf of the UK, which served as a third guaranteeing country.

“Putin told me in 2011, three years before he took Crimea, that he did not agree with the agreement I made with Boris Yeltsin, that they would respect Ukraine’s territory if they gave up their nuclear weapons,” Clinton said on Thursday at a public discussion at&nbsp;92nd Street Y, a Jewish cultural and community centre in New York, as reported by the Guardian.&nbsp;

“Putin said to me: ‘… I know Boris agreed to go along with you and John Major and Nato, but he never got it through the Duma [Russian parliament]. We have our extreme nationalists too. I don’t agree with it and I do not support it and I’m not bound by it," he added.

“I knew from that day forward, it was just a matter of time,” the former president added.&nbsp;

The Maidan revolution and the change in government in Kyiv earlier that year meant that Ukraine had become a different state, according to Putin, who asserted that Russia was not bound by the Budapest Memorandum after seizing Crimea in 2014.&nbsp;

“In respect to this state, we have not signed any obligatory documents,” he said.

His meeting with Clinton, however, reveals that Putin had already made up his mind about severing the agreement years before the Maidan uprising.

<h2>Russian annexation of Crimea in 2014&nbsp;</h2>

In February 2014, during the most catastrophic stages of the EuroMaidan Revolution that finally led to the ousting of Viktor Yanukovych, the pro-Russian former president of Ukraine, Russia invaded the Crimean Peninsula.

Around 30,000 Russian troops entered Crimea while Yanukovych's pro-Russian regime massacred protesters in central Kiev, and they took control of the peninsula by early March 2014.

In some ways, the event started Russia's ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Since then, the Russian military has kept control over Crimea.

With the exception of a small number of nations who are associated with Russia, many nations have publicly denounced the unlawful takeover of Crimea and continue to recognise it as being a part of Ukraine, as reported by the Kyiv Independent.&nbsp; 
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Russian president Vladimir Putin told Bill Clinton three years prior to his 2014 attack on Ukraine that he was not obligated by the Budapest Memorandum's guarantee of the nation's territorial integrity, according to the former US President.

Russian president Vladimir Putin told Bill Clinton three years prior to his 2014 attack on Ukraine that he was not obligated by the Budapest Memorandum's guarantee of the nation's territorial integrity, according to the former US President. The disclosure raises concerns about whether the US and its European allies may have been better prepared for the attack in 2014 when Russia invaded the Donbas and annexed Crimea. At the 2011 World Economic Forum in Davos, Clinton claimed to have spoken with the Russian president. During the discussion, Putin brought up the 1994 Memorandum, which required Ukraine, Belarus, and Kazakhstan to give up the nuclear arsenals they had received from the Soviet Union in exchange for assurance that their sovereignty would be respected "within existing borders." Boris Yeltsin signed it on behalf of Russia, Bill Clinton on behalf of the US, and John Major on behalf of the UK, which served as a third guaranteeing country. “Putin told me in 2011, three years before he took Crimea, that he did not agree with the agreement I made with Boris Yeltsin, that they would respect Ukraine’s territory if they gave up their nuclear weapons,” Clinton said on Thursday at a public discussion at 92nd Street Y, a Jewish cultural and community centre in New York, as reported by the Guardian. “Putin said to me: ‘… I know Boris agreed to go along with you and John Major and Nato, but he never got it through the Duma [Russian parliament]. We have our extreme nationalists too. I don’t agree with it and I do not support it and I’m not bound by it," he added. “I knew from that day forward, it was just a matter of time,” the former president added. The Maidan revolution and the change in government in Kyiv earlier that year meant that Ukraine had become a different state, according to Putin, who asserted that Russia was not bound by the Budapest Memorandum after seizing Crimea in 2014. “In respect to this state, we have not signed any obligatory documents,” he said. His meeting with Clinton, however, reveals that Putin had already made up his mind about severing the agreement years before the Maidan uprising. Russian annexation of Crimea in 2014 In February 2014, during the most catastrophic stages of the EuroMaidan Revolution that finally led to the ousting of Viktor Yanukovych, the pro-Russian former president of Ukraine, Russia invaded the Crimean Peninsula. Around 30,000 Russian troops entered Crimea while Yanukovych's pro-Russian regime massacred protesters in central Kiev, and they took control of the peninsula by early March 2014. In some ways, the event started Russia's ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Since then, the Russian military has kept control over Crimea. With the exception of a small number of nations who are associated with Russia, many nations have publicly denounced the unlawful takeover of Crimea and continue to recognise it as being a part of Ukraine, as reported by the Kyiv Independent. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

‘Just a matter of time’: Was Bill Clinton aware of Putin’s plan to invade Ukraine?

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (May 3) that his country did not attack Russian President Vladimir Putin after Moscow claimed that two drones were shot down over the Kremlin and termed it an assassination attempt.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (May 3) that his country did not attack Russian President Vladimir Putin after Moscow claimed that two drones were shot down over the Kremlin and termed it an assassination attempt. "We didn't attack Putin... We fight on our territory, we are defending our villages and cities," Zelensky told reporters at a press conference with Nordic leaders in Finland's capital city Helsinki. "We fight on our territory. We are defending our villages and cities. We don't have, you know, enough weapons for this, that's why we don't use it anywhere. For us that is the deficit, we can't spend it and we didn't attack Putin. We leave it to the tribunal," Zelensky added. ALSO READ | Russia arrests Ukraine sabotage group's members for planning 'assassinations' Zelensky arrived in Finland earlier in the day and held talks with Finnish President Sauli Niinisto. He thanked Niinisto for the military support to Ukraine so far and said the two have agreed to speed up further deliveries. The Ukrainian president also participated in a summit in Helsinki which saw a gathering of the leaders of the five Nordic nations. Zelensky reaffirmed that Ukraine aims to be a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), while the Nordic NATO members said they would "continue to support Ukraine on its path towards future membership." Zelensky's visit to Finland was announced only after his arrival amid tight security in the Finnish capital. Recently, Finland joined NATO in response to Russia's offensive in Ukraine. Hitting back at the membership of the intergovernmental military alliance, Russia said Finland's accession to NATO was a dangerous historic mistake that would weaken security in the wider region and force Moscow to take counter-measures. Medvedev calls for 'elimination' of Zelensky As Russia accused Ukraine of a drone attack on the Kremlin, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev called for the physical elimination of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his clique in Kyiv. "After today's terrorist attack, there are no options left aside from the physical elimination of Zelensky and his cabal," Medvedev said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

We didn't attack Putin: Ukraine's Zelensky as Nordic nations pledge continued support

The Kremlin has said that it was attacked by Ukrainian drones overnight which it deems was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life, the Russian presidential administration has confirmed.

The Kremlin has described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and "assassination attempt on the president of Russia." Moscow has vowed&nbsp;"retaliatory measures" in relation to the overnight escalation of the conflict.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war : Kyiv's spring offensive begins with assassination bid on Putin

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"Tonight, the Kyiv regime attempted a drone strike on the Kremlin residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Two drones were aimed at the Kremlin," the Kremlin press service said in a statement.

"We regard these actions as a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the life of the president of the Russian Federation, carried out on the eve of Victory Day, the May 9 parade," the Kremlin said, adding that Putin was not in the building at the time of the alleged attack.

“Russia reserves the right to respond to an attempted strike on the Kremlin where and when it sees fit,” the statement said

Ukrainian officials did not immediately comment on the claim.

Moscow residents reported hearing two explosions behind Kremlin walls shortly after 2 am&nbsp;local time, after which the lights went out.

Footage shared by residents on social media shows&nbsp;smoke filling the sky above the Kremlin.

Authorities have said it was a brazen attack by Ukraine using two drones, both of which they say have been destroyed.

No injuries were reported, according to the TASS news agency.

Russia is currently implementing additional safety measures ahead of its annual May 9 World War II victory commemorations, when the erstwhile Soviet Union states celebrate their victory over Nazi Germany.

Officials had cited security concerns related to the war for limiting the public events.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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The Kremlin has said that it was attacked by Ukrainian drones overnight which it deems was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life, the Russian presidential administration has confirmed.

The Kremlin has said that it was attacked by Ukrainian drones overnight which it deems was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life, the Russian presidential administration has confirmed. The Kremlin has described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and "assassination attempt on the president of Russia." Moscow has vowed "retaliatory measures" in relation to the overnight escalation of the conflict. ALSO WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war : Kyiv's spring offensive begins with assassination bid on Putin × "Tonight, the Kyiv regime attempted a drone strike on the Kremlin residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Two drones were aimed at the Kremlin," the Kremlin press service said in a statement. "We regard these actions as a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the life of the president of the Russian Federation, carried out on the eve of Victory Day, the May 9 parade," the Kremlin said, adding that Putin was not in the building at the time of the alleged attack. “Russia reserves the right to respond to an attempted strike on the Kremlin where and when it sees fit,” the statement said Ukrainian officials did not immediately comment on the claim. Moscow residents reported hearing two explosions behind Kremlin walls shortly after 2 am local time, after which the lights went out. Footage shared by residents on social media shows smoke filling the sky above the Kremlin. Authorities have said it was a brazen attack by Ukraine using two drones, both of which they say have been destroyed. No injuries were reported, according to the TASS news agency. Russia is currently implementing additional safety measures ahead of its annual May 9 World War II victory commemorations, when the erstwhile Soviet Union states celebrate their victory over Nazi Germany. Officials had cited security concerns related to the war for limiting the public events. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin survives assassination attempt, Ukrainian drones attacked Kremlin, claims Russia

Russian security service on Wednesday said it arrested members of a Ukrainian group notorious for its anti-Russia acts in the recent past after pre-empting a series of attacks in Moscow-administered territories in Crimea.

The preempted attacks also included assassinations.

On Wednesday, footage of two drones being exploded over the Kremlin went viral. Russia alleged these drones belonged to Ukraine, and deemed it an assassination bid on President Vladimir Putin. The Kremlin also vowed&nbsp;retaliatory action against the overnight drone attack attempt at the heart of the Russian corridor of power.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosive-device-causes-freight-train-derailment-in-russian-region-near-ukraine-588336">‘Explosive device’ causes another freight train derailment in Russian region near Ukraine</a>

"The FSB has broken up the activities of an agent network of Ukrainian military intelligence planning to carry out major sabotage and terrorist attacks in Crimea," the security service said in a statement.

The FSB said it had detained seven people and seized explosive devices and detonators.

It said the bomb components had been smuggled into Russia from Bulgaria via Turkey and Georgia.

The FSB said that the group had been planning to assassinate political leaders including the administrative head of Crimea, Sergei Aksyonov.

Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Kyiv denies involvement in Nord Stream pipelines sabotage

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"There is no doubt that the people who ordered these crimes are in Kyiv," Aksyonov said on his Telegram channel.

The FSB said the same group had carried out a railway sabotage in February.

Russia has witnessed a string of sabotage attacks in the country in recent days.

On Monday, an "explosive device" derailed a freight train in the Russian region of Bryansk, bordering Ukraine, without causing any casualties, according to the region's governor, Alexander Bogomaz. The explosion occurred "50 meters" from the train, according to the Belarusian railroad company, which said in a statement that it was one of its own, departing from the city of Gomel, Belarus, heading to Bryansk.&nbsp;

A day earlier on Monday, a high-voltage line was damaged by another explosive device in the northwestern region of Leningrad, near the border with Estonia and Finland, local governor Aleksandr Drozdenko announced. An investigation for "sabotage" was opened.

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Russian security service on Wednesday said it arrested members of a Ukrainian group notorious for its anti-Russia acts in the recent past after pre-empting a series of attacks in Moscow-administered territories in Crimea.

Russian security service on Wednesday said it arrested members of a Ukrainian group notorious for its anti-Russia acts in the recent past after pre-empting a series of attacks in Moscow-administered territories in Crimea. The preempted attacks also included assassinations. On Wednesday, footage of two drones being exploded over the Kremlin went viral. Russia alleged these drones belonged to Ukraine, and deemed it an assassination bid on President Vladimir Putin. The Kremlin also vowed retaliatory action against the overnight drone attack attempt at the heart of the Russian corridor of power. ALSO READ | ‘Explosive device’ causes another freight train derailment in Russian region near Ukraine "The FSB has broken up the activities of an agent network of Ukrainian military intelligence planning to carry out major sabotage and terrorist attacks in Crimea," the security service said in a statement. The FSB said it had detained seven people and seized explosive devices and detonators. It said the bomb components had been smuggled into Russia from Bulgaria via Turkey and Georgia. The FSB said that the group had been planning to assassinate political leaders including the administrative head of Crimea, Sergei Aksyonov. Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014. ALSO WATCH | Kyiv denies involvement in Nord Stream pipelines sabotage × "There is no doubt that the people who ordered these crimes are in Kyiv," Aksyonov said on his Telegram channel. The FSB said the same group had carried out a railway sabotage in February. Russia has witnessed a string of sabotage attacks in the country in recent days. On Monday, an "explosive device" derailed a freight train in the Russian region of Bryansk, bordering Ukraine, without causing any casualties, according to the region's governor, Alexander Bogomaz. The explosion occurred "50 meters" from the train, according to the Belarusian railroad company, which said in a statement that it was one of its own, departing from the city of Gomel, Belarus, heading to Bryansk. A day earlier on Monday, a high-voltage line was damaged by another explosive device in the northwestern region of Leningrad, near the border with Estonia and Finland, local governor Aleksandr Drozdenko announced. An investigation for "sabotage" was opened. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia arrests Ukraine sabotage group's members for planning 'assassinations'

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