<p>President Vladimir Putin on Friday said the West was trying to cancel Russian culture, including the works of great composers such as Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Dmitry Shostakovich, and Sergei Rachmaninov.</p>

<p>"Today they are trying to cancel a thousand-year-old country," Putin said during a televised meeting with Russian winners of culture-related prizes.</p>

<p>"I am talking about the progressive discrimination against everything connected with Russia, about this trend that is unfolding in a number of Western states, with the full connivance and sometimes with the encouragement of Western elites," Putin added.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-faces-economic-pressure-due-to-sanctions-imposed-by-the-west-465419/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"The proverbial 'cancel culture' has become a cancellation of culture," Putin said, adding that works by Russian composers were being excluded from concerts and books by Russian authors "banned".</p>

<p>"The last time such a mass campaign to destroy unwanted literature was carried out was by the Nazis in Germany almost 90 years ago... books were burned right on the squares," Putin said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-warns-nato-retaliation-if-russia-uses-chemical-weapons-in-ukraine-465405">Biden warns NATO retaliation if Russia uses chemical weapons in Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>A number of events involving Russian cultural figures who have voiced support for the war have been cancelled, including some involving Valery Gergiev, General director of the St. Petersburg Mariinsky Theatre, who spoke to Putin during Friday's meeting.</p>

<p>Gergiev has been dismissed as chief conductor of the Munich Philharmonic and lost the chance to conduct at Milan's La Scala after he failed to condemn Russia's invasion.</p>

<p>"Not so long ago children's author J.K Rowling was cancelled because she, a writer of books that have sold millions of copies around the world, didn't please fans of so-called gender freedoms," Putin said.</p>

<p>Since Putin sent Russian troops into Ukraine on February 24, the West has piled sanctions on Moscow that have seen Russia increasingly isolated, politically and financially, and extending to spheres such as sports and culture.</p>

<p>Putin has tried to justify attacks on Ukraine saying that his operation aims to “denazify” Ukraine, a country with a Jewish president who lost relatives in the Holocaust and who heads a Western-backed, democratically elected government.</p>

<p>The Holocaust, World War II and Nazism have been important tools for Putin in his bid to legitimize Russia’s moves in Ukraine, but historians see their use as disinformation and a cynical ploy to further the Russian leader’s aims.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-month-of-russia-ukraine-conflict-here-are-the-top-10-developments-465411" hreflang="en">One month of Russia-Ukraine conflict: Here are the top 10 developments</a></strong></p>

<p>World War II, in which the Soviet Union lost an estimated 27 million people, is a linchpin of Russia’s national identity. In today’s Russia, officials bristle at any questioning of the USSR’s role.</p>

<p>Some historians say this has been coupled with an attempt by Russia at retooling certain historical truths from the war. They say Russia has tried to magnify the Soviet role in defeating the Nazis while playing down any collaboration by Soviet citizens in the persecution of Jews.</p>

<p>On Ukraine, Russia has tried to link the country to Nazism, particularly those who have led it since a pro-Russian leadership was toppled in 2014.</p>

<p>“In terms of all of the sort of constituent parts of Nazism, none of that is in play in Ukraine. Territorial ambitions. State-sponsored terrorism. Rampant antisemitism. Bigotry. A dictatorship. None of those are in play. So this is just total fiction,” said Jonathan Dekel-Chen, a history professor at Jerusalem’s Hebrew University.</p>

<p>What’s more, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is Jewish and has said that three of his grandfather’s brothers were killed by German occupiers while his grandfather survived the war. That hasn’t stopped Russian officials from comparing Zelensky to Jews who were forced to collaborate with the Nazis during the Holocaust.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="25"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


President Vladimir Putin on Friday said the West was trying to cancel Russian culture, including the works of great composers such as Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Dmitry Shostakovich, and Sergei Rachmaninov.

President Vladimir Putin on Friday said the West was trying to cancel Russian culture, including the works of great composers such as Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Dmitry Shostakovich, and Sergei Rachmaninov. "Today they are trying to cancel a thousand-year-old country," Putin said during a televised meeting with Russian winners of culture-related prizes. "I am talking about the progressive discrimination against everything connected with Russia, about this trend that is unfolding in a number of Western states, with the full connivance and sometimes with the encouragement of Western elites," Putin added. "The proverbial 'cancel culture' has become a cancellation of culture," Putin said, adding that works by Russian composers were being excluded from concerts and books by Russian authors "banned". "The last time such a mass campaign to destroy unwanted literature was carried out was by the Nazis in Germany almost 90 years ago... books were burned right on the squares," Putin said. Also read | Biden warns NATO retaliation if Russia uses chemical weapons in Ukraine A number of events involving Russian cultural figures who have voiced support for the war have been cancelled, including some involving Valery Gergiev, General director of the St. Petersburg Mariinsky Theatre, who spoke to Putin during Friday's meeting. Gergiev has been dismissed as chief conductor of the Munich Philharmonic and lost the chance to conduct at Milan's La Scala after he failed to condemn Russia's invasion. "Not so long ago children's author J.K Rowling was cancelled because she, a writer of books that have sold millions of copies around the world, didn't please fans of so-called gender freedoms," Putin said. Since Putin sent Russian troops into Ukraine on February 24, the West has piled sanctions on Moscow that have seen Russia increasingly isolated, politically and financially, and extending to spheres such as sports and culture. Putin has tried to justify attacks on Ukraine saying that his operation aims to “denazify” Ukraine, a country with a Jewish president who lost relatives in the Holocaust and who heads a Western-backed, democratically elected government. The Holocaust, World War II and Nazism have been important tools for Putin in his bid to legitimize Russia’s moves in Ukraine, but historians see their use as disinformation and a cynical ploy to further the Russian leader’s aims. Also read | One month of Russia-Ukraine conflict: Here are the top 10 developments World War II, in which the Soviet Union lost an estimated 27 million people, is a linchpin of Russia’s national identity. In today’s Russia, officials bristle at any questioning of the USSR’s role. Some historians say this has been coupled with an attempt by Russia at retooling certain historical truths from the war. They say Russia has tried to magnify the Soviet role in defeating the Nazis while playing down any collaboration by Soviet citizens in the persecution of Jews. On Ukraine, Russia has tried to link the country to Nazism, particularly those who have led it since a pro-Russian leadership was toppled in 2014. “In terms of all of the sort of constituent parts of Nazism, none of that is in play in Ukraine. Territorial ambitions. State-sponsored terrorism. Rampant antisemitism. Bigotry. A dictatorship. None of those are in play. So this is just total fiction,” said Jonathan Dekel-Chen, a history professor at Jerusalem’s Hebrew University. What’s more, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is Jewish and has said that three of his grandfather’s brothers were killed by German occupiers while his grandfather survived the war. That hasn’t stopped Russian officials from comparing Zelensky to Jews who were forced to collaborate with the Nazis during the Holocaust. (With inputs from agencies)

Vladimir Putin accuses West of trying to cancel Russian culture

<p>It has been one month since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the full-scale attack on Ukraine on 24 February 2022.</p>

<p>Since that many key events have taken place. Here's a wrap up of the most significant developments in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.</p>

<p><strong>1. The confirmed civilian death toll in Ukraine now exceeds 1,000, according to the UN</strong></p>

<p>At least 1,035 people have been killed and 1,650 have been wounded in one month of fighting in Ukraine, according to the United Nations human rights office.</p>

<p>The statement states that ninety children were among the dead, adding that the true numbers were believed to be much higher because of delays in reporting from the heavily fought areas like Mariupol, a besieged city in southern Ukraine.</p>

<p><img alt="Civilian casualities" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9b4c3dd5-82d0-4321-8f3a-6021bdf89283" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%284%29_1.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong>2. Troop casualties</strong></p>

<p>Regarding troop casualties, Ukraine reports that 15,800 Russian soldiers have perished.</p>

<p>Western estimates put the number of dead, wounded, missing, or otherwise out of action Russian soldiers at up to 40,000.</p>

<p>President Zelensky announced last week that 1,300 Ukrainian soldiers had been killed. Kyiv has not provided an update since.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-warns-nato-retaliation-if-russia-uses-chemical-weapons-in-ukraine-465405" hreflang="en">Biden warns NATO retaliation if Russia uses chemical weapons in Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>3. Europe's worst refugee crisis since World War 2</strong></p>

<p>Nearly 3.7 million people have fled Ukraine since Russia's invasion a month ago, according to the UN.</p>

<p>There are now estimates that over 10 million people -- over a quarter of the population in the areas under government control before the invasion on February 24 -- have fled their homes. Nearly 6.5 million of them are internally displaced.</p>

<p>Children make up almost half of all those who have been displaced. UNICEF stated that 4.3 million children -- more than half the country's estimated 7.5 million children -- have been forced to abandon their homes.</p>

<p>Over 1.8 million of these children are refugees, while another 2.5 million are displaced within their war-torn country, it said.</p>

<p><img alt="Refugee" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dcc57861-2171-428d-beb5-1a6a9b679dc1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%285%29_1.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong>4. Brussels triple summit</strong></p>

<p>An unprecedented triple summit in Brussels brought together the leaders of NATO, the G7, and European nations to address the continent's worst conflict since the Balkan wars of the 1990s.</p>

<p>The summit saw Western leaders pile on military and humanitarian aid for Ukraine and denounce Moscow's invasion of its neighbour as "barbaric".</p>

<p>In addition to the new NATO combat units, the United States and the United Kingdom increased aid and expanded sanctions against new targets, including the stepdaughter of Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainians-need-to-achieve-peace-halt-russian-bombardment-says-president-volodymyr-zelensky-465301" hreflang="en">Ukrainians 'need to achieve peace', halt Russian bombardment, says President Volodymyr Zelensky</a></strong></p>

<p>"The single most important thing is for us to stay unified and the world continue to focus on what a brute this guy is and all the innocent people's lives that are being lost and ruined," Biden told reporters in Brussels, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin.</p>

<p>"Putin has already crossed the red line into barbarism," added British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.</p>

<p><img alt="Brussels summit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ae37d30c-f3ed-4695-ab5c-54d5e7fe0230" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%283%29_0.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong>5. NATO strengthens its defenses&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>In response to Russia's war on Ukraine, NATO is beefing up chemical and nuclear defenses for its forces in eastern Europe, said alliance head Jens Stoltenberg.</p>

<p>"Our top military commander General Wolters has activated NATO's chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defence elements, and allies are deploying additional chemical and biological and nuclear defences to reinforce our existing and new battle groups."</p>

<p><img alt="Jens " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b312e12-5c32-4082-8411-0a6b18a432c5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%287%29_2.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong>6. Ukraine pleads for unlimited aid&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As its war entered its second month, Ukraine pressed for unlimited military aid from NATO in order for its troops to turn from defending territory to pushing Russian forces out, warning that Moscow could use chemical weapons.</p>

<p>According to Volodymyr Zelensky, Russia has been launching phosphorus bombs on Ukraine and shelling civilian areas at will, thus "the threat of full-scale use by Russia of chemical weapons on the territory of Ukraine is real."</p>

<p>"A month of heroic resistance. A month of the darkest suffering," he told the leaders.</p>

<p>"To save people and our cities, Ukraine needs military assistance without restrictions," Zelensky said. "In the same way that Russia is using its full arsenal without restrictions against us." &nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Zelensky" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fd491894-40c3-4f32-8374-076dfe140f89" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%286%29_0.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong>7. UN General Assembly approves Ukraine aid resolution, criticises Russia</strong></p>

<p>As many as three-quarters of the UN General Assembly has&nbsp;called for aid access and civilian protection in Ukraine, criticising Russia for creating a "dire" humanitarian crisis.</p>

<p>This is the second time the 193-member General Assembly has isolated Russia over what Moscow calls a "special military operation" intended to destroy Ukraine's military infrastructure.</p>

<p>Ukraine and its allies drafted the resolution, which received 140 votes in support and five votes against - Russia, Syria, North Korea, Eritrea and Belarus - while 38 countries, including China, abstained.</p>

<p><strong>8. China rejects Russian claims of "prior knowledge" of attacks against Ukraine</strong></p>

<p>China's ministry of defence has stated that it is false to state that China knew in advance about Russia's invasion of Ukraine and that such claims are false.</p>

<p>It was made in response to allegations in foreign media that China ignored warnings from the US that Russia would attack Ukraine.</p>

<p>China strongly disagrees with and rejects these accusations, which it says were made to "shirk responsibility and smear China", the Chinese defence ministry said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: 1 month of Ukraine invasion: More bluster from NATO</strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-1-month-of-ukraine-invasion-more-bluster-from-nato-465277/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p><strong>9. US sets red lines for China helping Russia dodge sanctions</strong></p>

<p>Attempting to deter China from assisting sanctions-hit Russia, the Biden administration has issued warnings to Beijing not to take advantage of business opportunities created by sanctions, assist Moscow in evading export controls, or process its banned financial transactions.</p>

<p>Although China has expressed deep concern about the war in Ukraine, it is yet to condemn Russian action.</p>

<p><img alt="US" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0de7a5e2-6776-425f-bc40-4d70f2677316" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%288%29_4.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong>10. ICC prosecutor calls for international support in Ukraine war-crimes probe</strong></p>

<p>In an appeal to a coalition of countries to support the investigation of war crimes in Ukraine, the International Criminal Court chief prosecutor said "things can get worse" unless the international community takes action.</p>

<p>ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan spoke at a meeting of a British-led coalition in The Hague, where 38 countries have offered the court financial, military and legal assistance.</p>

<p>A formal inquiry into war crimes and crimes against humanity in Ukraine was opened by Khan on Feb. 28, just days after Russia invaded its smaller neighbour.</p>

<p>Ukraine and Russia aren't members of the ICC, but Kyiv has authorised the court to investigate on its territory and a team of investigators is gathering evidence there.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


It has been one month since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the full-scale attack on Ukraine on 24 February 2022. Since that many key events have taken place.

It has been one month since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the full-scale attack on Ukraine on 24 February 2022. Since that many key events have taken place. Here's a wrap up of the most significant developments in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. 1. The confirmed civilian death toll in Ukraine now exceeds 1,000, according to the UN At least 1,035 people have been killed and 1,650 have been wounded in one month of fighting in Ukraine, according to the United Nations human rights office. The statement states that ninety children were among the dead, adding that the true numbers were believed to be much higher because of delays in reporting from the heavily fought areas like Mariupol, a besieged city in southern Ukraine. 2. Troop casualties Regarding troop casualties, Ukraine reports that 15,800 Russian soldiers have perished. Western estimates put the number of dead, wounded, missing, or otherwise out of action Russian soldiers at up to 40,000. President Zelensky announced last week that 1,300 Ukrainian soldiers had been killed. Kyiv has not provided an update since. Also read | Biden warns NATO retaliation if Russia uses chemical weapons in Ukraine 3. Europe's worst refugee crisis since World War 2 Nearly 3.7 million people have fled Ukraine since Russia's invasion a month ago, according to the UN. There are now estimates that over 10 million people -- over a quarter of the population in the areas under government control before the invasion on February 24 -- have fled their homes. Nearly 6.5 million of them are internally displaced. Children make up almost half of all those who have been displaced. UNICEF stated that 4.3 million children -- more than half the country's estimated 7.5 million children -- have been forced to abandon their homes. Over 1.8 million of these children are refugees, while another 2.5 million are displaced within their war-torn country, it said. 4. Brussels triple summit An unprecedented triple summit in Brussels brought together the leaders of NATO, the G7, and European nations to address the continent's worst conflict since the Balkan wars of the 1990s. The summit saw Western leaders pile on military and humanitarian aid for Ukraine and denounce Moscow's invasion of its neighbour as "barbaric". In addition to the new NATO combat units, the United States and the United Kingdom increased aid and expanded sanctions against new targets, including the stepdaughter of Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. Also read | Ukrainians 'need to achieve peace', halt Russian bombardment, says President Volodymyr Zelensky "The single most important thing is for us to stay unified and the world continue to focus on what a brute this guy is and all the innocent people's lives that are being lost and ruined," Biden told reporters in Brussels, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin. "Putin has already crossed the red line into barbarism," added British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. 5. NATO strengthens its defenses In response to Russia's war on Ukraine, NATO is beefing up chemical and nuclear defenses for its forces in eastern Europe, said alliance head Jens Stoltenberg. "Our top military commander General Wolters has activated NATO's chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defence elements, and allies are deploying additional chemical and biological and nuclear defences to reinforce our existing and new battle groups." 6. Ukraine pleads for unlimited aid As its war entered its second month, Ukraine pressed for unlimited military aid from NATO in order for its troops to turn from defending territory to pushing Russian forces out, warning that Moscow could use chemical weapons. According to Volodymyr Zelensky, Russia has been launching phosphorus bombs on Ukraine and shelling civilian areas at will, thus "the threat of full-scale use by Russia of chemical weapons on the territory of Ukraine is real." "A month of heroic resistance. A month of the darkest suffering," he told the leaders. "To save people and our cities, Ukraine needs military assistance without restrictions," Zelensky said. "In the same way that Russia is using its full arsenal without restrictions against us." 7. UN General Assembly approves Ukraine aid resolution, criticises Russia As many as three-quarters of the UN General Assembly has called for aid access and civilian protection in Ukraine, criticising Russia for creating a "dire" humanitarian crisis. This is the second time the 193-member General Assembly has isolated Russia over what Moscow calls a "special military operation" intended to destroy Ukraine's military infrastructure. Ukraine and its allies drafted the resolution, which received 140 votes in support and five votes against - Russia, Syria, North Korea, Eritrea and Belarus - while 38 countries, including China, abstained. 8. China rejects Russian claims of "prior knowledge" of attacks against Ukraine China's ministry of defence has stated that it is false to state that China knew in advance about Russia's invasion of Ukraine and that such claims are false. It was made in response to allegations in foreign media that China ignored warnings from the US that Russia would attack Ukraine. China strongly disagrees with and rejects these accusations, which it says were made to "shirk responsibility and smear China", the Chinese defence ministry said in a statement. Watch | Gravitas: 1 month of Ukraine invasion: More bluster from NATO 9. US sets red lines for China helping Russia dodge sanctions Attempting to deter China from assisting sanctions-hit Russia, the Biden administration has issued warnings to Beijing not to take advantage of business opportunities created by sanctions, assist Moscow in evading export controls, or process its banned financial transactions. Although China has expressed deep concern about the war in Ukraine, it is yet to condemn Russian action. 10. ICC prosecutor calls for international support in Ukraine war-crimes probe In an appeal to a coalition of countries to support the investigation of war crimes in Ukraine, the International Criminal Court chief prosecutor said "things can get worse" unless the international community takes action. ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan spoke at a meeting of a British-led coalition in The Hague, where 38 countries have offered the court financial, military and legal assistance. A formal inquiry into war crimes and crimes against humanity in Ukraine was opened by Khan on Feb. 28, just days after Russia invaded its smaller neighbour. Ukraine and Russia aren't members of the ICC, but Kyiv has authorised the court to investigate on its territory and a team of investigators is gathering evidence there. (With inputs from agencies)

One month of Russia-Ukraine conflict: Here are the top 10 developments

Russian reformer Anatoly Chubais has left his post as Russian President Vladimir Putin's envoy for stable development, over Moscow's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine.

Russian reformer Anatoly Chubais resigns job as Putin's envoy over Ukraine conflict

Vladimir Putin's spokesperson said that Russia would launch a nuclear strike only if its existence were threatened. Western media says a 'paranoid' Putin could escalate the conflict to force a deal. Palki Sharma decodes the mood in Moscow.

Gravitas: Will Putin launch a nuclear strike?

Russia's invasion of Ukraine is approaching the one month mark. What does Vladimir Putin want from Ukraine? Reports claim the Russian President shared his demands with Turkey's Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: What does Putin want from Ukraine?

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<p>It's been almost a month since Russia started its invasion of Ukraine after President Vladimir Putin ordered so-called special "military operations" in the neighbouring country to "demilitarise" it. But little did he know about the resistance of Ukraine, which defied all expectations and tried to block Russian forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nearly a month after the Russian invasion, its forces have continued heavy bombings and shelling&nbsp;that have caused massive damage to the cities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of those cities is Mariupol. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said almost 100,000 people are trapped by Russian bombardment and facing starvation in the ruins of Mariupol.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Human Rights Watch, tens of thousands of residents have already fled the besieged southern port city, leaving it to be the "freezing hellscape riddled with dead bodies and destroyed buildings".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-ukraine-invasion-russia-intesifies-crackdown-on-media-464863">Amid Ukraine invasion, Russia intensifies crackdown on media</a></strong></p>

<p>For Ukrainians besieged in Mariupol and other cities, Russian talk of peace rings hollow as they come under indiscriminate shelling that Western countries say amounts to a war crime.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Failing in their war against the Ukrainian people, the enemy is executing the total destruction of critical infrastructure," Ukraine's armed forces command said on Facebook.</p>

<p>Satellite images of Mariupol released by private company Maxar showed a charred landscape, with several buildings ablaze and smoke billowing from the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>United Nations chief Antonio Guterres said, "Even if Mariupol falls, Ukraine cannot be conquered city by city, street by street, house by house. This war is unwinnable. Sooner or later, it will have to move from the battlefield to the peace table. That is inevitable."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sending-secretly-acquired-soviet-defence-equipment-to-ukraine-report-464796">US sending secretly acquired Soviet defence equipment to Ukraine: Report</a></strong></p>

<hr />
<p>What makes Mariupol strategically important for Putin?</p>

<p><strong>Land bridge:</strong>&nbsp;Mariupol is a pivotal target in Putin's war - providing a land bridge between Russian forces in Crimea to the southwest and Russian-controlled territory to the north and east.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per a BBC report, General Sir Richard Barrons, who is a former commander of UK Joint Forces Command, said that capturing Mariupol is vital to Russia's war effort.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Barrons said, "When the Russians feel they have successfully concluded that battle, they will have completed a land bridge from Russia to Crimea and they will see this as a major strategic success."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Economy:</strong>&nbsp;Mariupol is an important port on the Sea of Azov, part of the Black Sea. BBC report stated that it is the biggest port in the Azov Sea region, which is home to major iron and steelworks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If Russia occupies it, it will cause massive harm to Ukraine's economy as it is a key export hub for Ukraine's steel, coal and corn. The port exports to customers in the Middle East and other parts of the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Explained: Why Mariupol is important for Russia?</strong></p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


It's been almost a month since Russia started its invasion of Ukraine after President Vladimir Putin ordered so-called special "military operations" in the neighbouring country to "demilitarise" it.

It's been almost a month since Russia started its invasion of Ukraine after President Vladimir Putin ordered so-called special "military operations" in the neighbouring country to "demilitarise" it. But little did he know about the resistance of Ukraine, which defied all expectations and tried to block Russian forces. Nearly a month after the Russian invasion, its forces have continued heavy bombings and shelling that have caused massive damage to the cities. One of those cities is Mariupol. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said almost 100,000 people are trapped by Russian bombardment and facing starvation in the ruins of Mariupol. According to Human Rights Watch, tens of thousands of residents have already fled the besieged southern port city, leaving it to be the "freezing hellscape riddled with dead bodies and destroyed buildings". ALSO READ | Amid Ukraine invasion, Russia intensifies crackdown on media For Ukrainians besieged in Mariupol and other cities, Russian talk of peace rings hollow as they come under indiscriminate shelling that Western countries say amounts to a war crime. "Failing in their war against the Ukrainian people, the enemy is executing the total destruction of critical infrastructure," Ukraine's armed forces command said on Facebook. Satellite images of Mariupol released by private company Maxar showed a charred landscape, with several buildings ablaze and smoke billowing from the city. United Nations chief Antonio Guterres said, "Even if Mariupol falls, Ukraine cannot be conquered city by city, street by street, house by house. This war is unwinnable. Sooner or later, it will have to move from the battlefield to the peace table. That is inevitable." ALSO READ | US sending secretly acquired Soviet defence equipment to Ukraine: Report What makes Mariupol strategically important for Putin? Land bridge: Mariupol is a pivotal target in Putin's war - providing a land bridge between Russian forces in Crimea to the southwest and Russian-controlled territory to the north and east. As per a BBC report, General Sir Richard Barrons, who is a former commander of UK Joint Forces Command, said that capturing Mariupol is vital to Russia's war effort. Barrons said, "When the Russians feel they have successfully concluded that battle, they will have completed a land bridge from Russia to Crimea and they will see this as a major strategic success." Economy: Mariupol is an important port on the Sea of Azov, part of the Black Sea. BBC report stated that it is the biggest port in the Azov Sea region, which is home to major iron and steelworks. If Russia occupies it, it will cause massive harm to Ukraine's economy as it is a key export hub for Ukraine's steel, coal and corn. The port exports to customers in the Middle East and other parts of the world. WATCH | Explained: Why Mariupol is important for Russia? × (With inputs from agencies)

Mariupol: What makes this port city strategically important to Russia?

<p>In a major blow to the Western countries, President Vladimir Putin has said that Russia will only accept rubles for gas deliveries from “unfriendly” countries.</p>

<p>Despite sanctions announced on the Russian gas, several European nations have been importing from Moscow via Ukraine.</p>

<p>Russian energy giant Gazprom on Monday said that the requests stood at 104.7 million cubic meters for March 21, reports Reuters.</p>

<p>The latest announcement by Putin to switch to domestic currency for gas sales is expected to hit Europe hard as according to Gazprom, 58 per cent of its sales of natural gas to Europe and other countries as of January 27 were settled in euros.</p>

<p>"I have decided to implement a set of measures to transfer payment for our gas supplies to unfriendly countries into Russian rubles," Putin said during a televised government meeting, ordering the changes to be implemented within a week.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-could-join-russias-war-against-ukraine-in-next-few-days-report-464904">Belarus could join Russia’s war against Ukraine ‘in next few days’: Report</a></p>

<p>"The changes will only affect the currency of payment, which will be changed to Russian roubles," he said.</p>

<p>Putin said the government and central bank had one week to come up with a solution on how to move these operations to the Russian currency and that Gazprom would be ordered to make the corresponding changes to gas contracts.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-spies-in-poland-country-expels-45-russian-diplomats-for-espionage-464868">Russian spies in Poland?: Country expels 45 Russian diplomats for espionage</a></p>

<p>Russia came up with a list of "unfriendly" countries in the wake of sanctions announced by the West.</p>

<p>The list of countries includes the United States, European Union member states, Britain, Japan, Canada, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland and Ukraine.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a major blow to the Western countries, President Vladimir Putin has said that Russia will only accept rubles for gas deliveries from “unfriendly” countries. Despite sanctions announced on the Russian gas, several European nations have been importing from Moscow via Ukraine.

In a major blow to the Western countries, President Vladimir Putin has said that Russia will only accept rubles for gas deliveries from “unfriendly” countries. Despite sanctions announced on the Russian gas, several European nations have been importing from Moscow via Ukraine. Russian energy giant Gazprom on Monday said that the requests stood at 104.7 million cubic meters for March 21, reports Reuters. The latest announcement by Putin to switch to domestic currency for gas sales is expected to hit Europe hard as according to Gazprom, 58 per cent of its sales of natural gas to Europe and other countries as of January 27 were settled in euros. "I have decided to implement a set of measures to transfer payment for our gas supplies to unfriendly countries into Russian rubles," Putin said during a televised government meeting, ordering the changes to be implemented within a week. Also read | Belarus could join Russia’s war against Ukraine ‘in next few days’: Report "The changes will only affect the currency of payment, which will be changed to Russian roubles," he said. Putin said the government and central bank had one week to come up with a solution on how to move these operations to the Russian currency and that Gazprom would be ordered to make the corresponding changes to gas contracts. Also read | Russian spies in Poland?: Country expels 45 Russian diplomats for espionage Russia came up with a list of "unfriendly" countries in the wake of sanctions announced by the West. The list of countries includes the United States, European Union member states, Britain, Japan, Canada, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland and Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin says will accept only rubles for gas sales to ‘unfriendly nations’

WION's Anas Mallick brings you exclusive ground report of refugees trying to enter Poland from Ukraine during his travel from Lviv to Medyka.

WION special report: Travelling from Lviv to Medyka

<p>As the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, a number of cases show how Moscow has intensified its crackdown on media and dissenters in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this month, Russian President Vladimir Putin had signed into law harsh new legislation to nab those who are being charged with spreading "fake news" about the military.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin has already banned Facebook and Instagram after labelling them as "extremist" and media reports have suggested that, to silence dissent, the Russian authorities have blocked or shut down independent media in the country. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian leader last week promised that he will purge Russia of the "scum and traitors" who are opposing the special "military operation" in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sending-secretly-acquired-soviet-defence-equipment-to-ukraine-report-464796">US sending secretly acquired Soviet defence equipment to Ukraine: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>As per a report by Bloomberg published on Tuesday (March 22), Russian lawmakers have expanded legislation that punishes people with fines or imprisonment for publishing "fake news" about the military’s operations to cover all state agencies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The move has been deemed as a major escalation of the crackdown on media coverage in Russia of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report added that the State Duma lower house of parliament backed amendments criminalising the public dissemination of "knowingly false information about the activities of government bodies abroad in pursuing Russia's national interests".&nbsp;</p>

<p>A person charged with the offence can be slapped with a penalty ranging from fines of between 700,000 rubles ($6,800) and 5 million rubles to imprisonment of up to 15 years if the actions led to "grave consequences".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kremlin said on Wednesday (March 23) that it was vital to apply a new law.&nbsp;Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov declined to comment on the specific case of journalist Alexander Nevzorov, whom investigators late on Tuesday accused of deliberately spreading knowingly false information about the actions of the&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;military in Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-oligarch-moved-wealth-before-sanctions-in-27-swiss-accounts-of-sister-464854">Russian oligarch moved wealth before sanctions in 27 Swiss accounts of sister</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Telegram gains popularity </strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Telegram has overtaken WhatsApp to become Russia's most popular messaging tool, the mobile operator Megafon said on Monday (March 21).&nbsp;</p>

<p>WhatsApp owner Meta Platforms Inc is embroiled in a Russian court case, with prosecutors seeking to label it an "extremist organisation", and authorities have actively promoted Telegram as they have banned other foreign platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.</p>

<p>Russia's military operation in Ukraine has added fuel to a simmering dispute between foreign digital platforms and Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Megafon, one of Russia's four main telecoms operators, said its analysis of mobile internet traffic showed that Telegram's share had jumped to 63% in the first two weeks of March from 48% in the first two weeks of February.&nbsp;</p>

<p>WhatsApp's share dropped to 32% from 48%, Megafon said. The average Telegram user consumed 101 MB of data a day, compared to 26 MB for WhatsApp.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Founded by Russian Pavel Durov, Telegram has long been a popular news platform in Russia, with almost all major media, government entities and public figures operating content channels.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russian court finds Alexei Navalny guilty of large scale frauds</strong></p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, a number of cases show how Moscow has intensified its crackdown on media and dissenters in the country. Earlier this month, Russian President Vladimir Putin had signed into law harsh new legislation to nab those who are being charged with spreading "fake news" about the military.

As the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, a number of cases show how Moscow has intensified its crackdown on media and dissenters in the country. Earlier this month, Russian President Vladimir Putin had signed into law harsh new legislation to nab those who are being charged with spreading "fake news" about the military. Putin has already banned Facebook and Instagram after labelling them as "extremist" and media reports have suggested that, to silence dissent, the Russian authorities have blocked or shut down independent media in the country. The Russian leader last week promised that he will purge Russia of the "scum and traitors" who are opposing the special "military operation" in Ukraine. ALSO READ | US sending secretly acquired Soviet defence equipment to Ukraine: Report As per a report by Bloomberg published on Tuesday (March 22), Russian lawmakers have expanded legislation that punishes people with fines or imprisonment for publishing "fake news" about the military’s operations to cover all state agencies. The move has been deemed as a major escalation of the crackdown on media coverage in Russia of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The report added that the State Duma lower house of parliament backed amendments criminalising the public dissemination of "knowingly false information about the activities of government bodies abroad in pursuing Russia's national interests". A person charged with the offence can be slapped with a penalty ranging from fines of between 700,000 rubles ($6,800) and 5 million rubles to imprisonment of up to 15 years if the actions led to "grave consequences". The Kremlin said on Wednesday (March 23) that it was vital to apply a new law. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov declined to comment on the specific case of journalist Alexander Nevzorov, whom investigators late on Tuesday accused of deliberately spreading knowingly false information about the actions of the Russian military in Ukraine. ALSO READ | Russian oligarch moved wealth before sanctions in 27 Swiss accounts of sister Telegram gains popularity Meanwhile, Telegram has overtaken WhatsApp to become Russia's most popular messaging tool, the mobile operator Megafon said on Monday (March 21). WhatsApp owner Meta Platforms Inc is embroiled in a Russian court case, with prosecutors seeking to label it an "extremist organisation", and authorities have actively promoted Telegram as they have banned other foreign platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Russia's military operation in Ukraine has added fuel to a simmering dispute between foreign digital platforms and Moscow. Megafon, one of Russia's four main telecoms operators, said its analysis of mobile internet traffic showed that Telegram's share had jumped to 63% in the first two weeks of March from 48% in the first two weeks of February. WhatsApp's share dropped to 32% from 48%, Megafon said. The average Telegram user consumed 101 MB of data a day, compared to 26 MB for WhatsApp. Founded by Russian Pavel Durov, Telegram has long been a popular news platform in Russia, with almost all major media, government entities and public figures operating content channels. WATCH | Russian court finds Alexei Navalny guilty of large scale frauds × (With inputs from agencies)

Imprisonment of up to 15 years? Amid Ukraine invasion, Russia intensifies crackdown on media

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p>Russia’s ally Belarus could soon join Vladimir Putin’s war against Ukraine, CNN reports citing officials from US and NATO.</p>

<p>The news outlet, quoting sources from the Belarus opposition, claimed that thousands of Belarusian forces are prepared to be deployed and can land Ukraine any time in the “next few days”.</p>

<p>“(Russian President Vladimir) Putin needs support. Anything would help,” a NATO military official told CNN.</p>

<p>Another NATO intelligence official alleged that the Belarusian government “is preparing the environment to justify a Belarusian offensive against Ukraine."</p>

<p>This latest development comes a month after Belarus changed its constitution last month to allow the country to host both Russian forces and nuclear weapons permanently.</p>

<p>As the Russian-Ukraine war entered the 28th day, the UK intelligence report said that Russian troops have been facing stiff resistance due to which it has been unable to capture the capital Kyiv.</p>

<p>“Russian forces advancing on the city from the northeast have stalled. Forces advancing from the direction of Hostomel to the northwest have been repulsed by fierce Ukrainian resistance.” the ministry of defence said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-putins-girlfriend-and-why-is-she-trending-amidst-russia-ukraine-war-464880">Who is Putin’s girlfriend? And why is she trending amidst Russia-Ukraine war?</a></p>

<p>Oleksandr Markushyn, mayor of the Kyiv suburb of Irpin, said the Ukrainian armed forces, territorial defence and police "have 80 per cent of our city under control."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukrainian presidential adviser Oleksiy Arestovych on Wednesday said that he expected the active phase of the Russian invasion to be over by the end of April as the Russian advance had already stalled in many areas, Reuters reported.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-spies-in-poland-country-expels-45-russian-diplomats-for-espionage-464868">Russian spies in Poland?: Country expels 45 Russian diplomats for espionage</a></p>

<p>Speaking on local television, Arestovych said Russia had already lost 40 per cent of its attacking forces, and also played down the prospect of Russia waging nuclear war.</p>

<p>Reuters, however, said it could not independently verify his statements.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia reiterates 'nuclear threat', will use weapons if required</strong></p>

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<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


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

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russia’s ally Belarus could soon join Vladimir Putin’s war against Ukraine, CNN reports citing officials from US and NATO. The news outlet, quoting sources from the Belarus opposition, claimed that thousands of Belarusian forces are prepared to be deployed and can land Ukraine any time in the “next few days”. “(Russian President Vladimir) Putin needs support. Anything would help,” a NATO military official told CNN. Another NATO intelligence official alleged that the Belarusian government “is preparing the environment to justify a Belarusian offensive against Ukraine." This latest development comes a month after Belarus changed its constitution last month to allow the country to host both Russian forces and nuclear weapons permanently. As the Russian-Ukraine war entered the 28th day, the UK intelligence report said that Russian troops have been facing stiff resistance due to which it has been unable to capture the capital Kyiv. “Russian forces advancing on the city from the northeast have stalled. Forces advancing from the direction of Hostomel to the northwest have been repulsed by fierce Ukrainian resistance.” the ministry of defence said in a statement. Also read | Who is Putin’s girlfriend? And why is she trending amidst Russia-Ukraine war? Oleksandr Markushyn, mayor of the Kyiv suburb of Irpin, said the Ukrainian armed forces, territorial defence and police "have 80 per cent of our city under control." Meanwhile, Ukrainian presidential adviser Oleksiy Arestovych on Wednesday said that he expected the active phase of the Russian invasion to be over by the end of April as the Russian advance had already stalled in many areas, Reuters reported. Also read | Russian spies in Poland?: Country expels 45 Russian diplomats for espionage Speaking on local television, Arestovych said Russia had already lost 40 per cent of its attacking forces, and also played down the prospect of Russia waging nuclear war. Reuters, however, said it could not independently verify his statements. Watch | Russia reiterates 'nuclear threat', will use weapons if required (With inputs from agencies)

Belarus could join Russia’s war against Ukraine ‘in next few days’: Report

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p>Amidst the Russian-Ukraine war that is set complete a month, calls are growing for Russian President Vladamir Putin’s rumoured girlfriend to be expelled from her luxurious house in Switzerland.</p>

<p>The opponents of Putin&nbsp;have launched a petition on change.org urging the Swiss to extradite 38-year-old Alina Kabaeva, a former athlete, claiming that she is hiding with their secret children in a luxury villa, reports Mirror.</p>

<p>The petition in German, French and English, is said to have attracted almost 55,000 signatures and has mostly citizens from Ukraine, Russia, and its ally Belarus.</p>

<p>Comparing Kabaeva to Hilter’s wife, the petition says, “It's time you reunite Eva Braun with her Führer.”</p>

<p>“Despite the current war, Switzerland continues to host an accomplice of Putin's regime,” it adds, as it lists Kabaeva’s many crimes.</p>

<p>It added that it was time for the neutral country “to take action” and send her home to Putin, 69.</p>

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<p>It is being claimed that the Olympic gold medallist was sent to a private chalet in Switzerland earlier this month amidst the Russian invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>However, a separate report suggests that Kabaeva is rather housed at a hi-tech underground bunker in the Altai Mountains of Siberia.</p>

<p>She has released only one statement linked to the war where she slammed the refusal to allow the Russian team to compete at the Beijing Paralympics.</p>

<p><strong>Who is Kabaeva?</strong></p>

<p>Kabaeva, an Olympic gold medallist, is known as Russia’s “most flexible woman”. There are claims that Putin and she got married in a secret ceremony after he divorced his first wife Lyudmila in 2013.</p>

<p>However, the Kremlin has always dismissed all the reports as rumours.</p>

<p>The former gymnast enjoys quite a few privileges in Russia. She spent six years as a member of parliament in Putin’s United Russia Party.</p>

<p>In September 2014, she quit the party to take charge of Russia’s National Media Group, which had a stake in Channel One, one of the state-controlled television channels, along with other newspapers. She headed the media holding for more than even years, where she earned an annual salary of £8 million, reports the British tabloid&nbsp;Daily Mail.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Amidst the Russian-Ukraine war that is set complete a month, calls are growing for Russian President Vladamir Putin’s rumoured girlfriend to be expelled from her luxurious house in Switzerland. The opponents of Putin have launched a petition on change.org urging the Swiss to extradite 38-year-old Alina Kabaeva, a former athlete, claiming that she is hiding with their secret children in a luxury villa, reports Mirror. The petition in German, French and English, is said to have attracted almost 55,000 signatures and has mostly citizens from Ukraine, Russia, and its ally Belarus. Comparing Kabaeva to Hilter’s wife, the petition says, “It's time you reunite Eva Braun with her Führer.” “Despite the current war, Switzerland continues to host an accomplice of Putin's regime,” it adds, as it lists Kabaeva’s many crimes. It added that it was time for the neutral country “to take action” and send her home to Putin, 69. View this post on Instagram A post shared by АЛИНА КАБАЕВА |ФАН-СООБЩЕСТВО| (@alinakabaeva.official) × It is being claimed that the Olympic gold medallist was sent to a private chalet in Switzerland earlier this month amidst the Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, a separate report suggests that Kabaeva is rather housed at a hi-tech underground bunker in the Altai Mountains of Siberia. She has released only one statement linked to the war where she slammed the refusal to allow the Russian team to compete at the Beijing Paralympics. Who is Kabaeva? Kabaeva, an Olympic gold medallist, is known as Russia’s “most flexible woman”. There are claims that Putin and she got married in a secret ceremony after he divorced his first wife Lyudmila in 2013. However, the Kremlin has always dismissed all the reports as rumours. The former gymnast enjoys quite a few privileges in Russia. She spent six years as a member of parliament in Putin’s United Russia Party. In September 2014, she quit the party to take charge of Russia’s National Media Group, which had a stake in Channel One, one of the state-controlled television channels, along with other newspapers. She headed the media holding for more than even years, where she earned an annual salary of £8 million, reports the British tabloid Daily Mail. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Putin’s girlfriend? And why is she trending amidst Russia-Ukraine war?

The team of jailed Russian opposition politician Alexei Navalny has published details about a superyacht that they suspect belongs to President Vladimir Putin.

Navalny's team links $700 million superyacht to Putin

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a special "military operation" in the Ukrainian cities in order to 'demilitarise' the neighbouring country on February 24.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the deadly invasion, the Western counties slapped Russia with a series of severe sanctions - isolating the country and leaving it in a dire state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, if reports are to be believed, sanctions might&nbsp;now directly impact Putin as he won't be able to use Botox to maintain his youthful looks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/does-this-700-million-superyacht-belongs-to-russian-president-vladimir-putin-464496">Does this $700 million superyacht belong to Russian President Vladimir Putin? &nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>Among other international brands, some of the drugmakers have also halted business and supplies to Russia. A report by Independent noted that Eli Lilly and Co, Novartis and Abbvie Inc are reducing their operations in Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reuters quoted Eli Lilly and Co, as saying that it would continue to supply critical medicines for cancer and diabetes treatment. However, in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, it will halt "non-essential" products.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per reports, AbbVie said it has temporarily suspended operations for all its aesthetic products in the country. The drugmaker owns the celebrated wrinkle treatment Botox.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-zelensky-insists-on-need-for-a-meeting-with-vladimir-putin-rules-out-surrender-464446">Ukrainian President Zelensky insists on need for a 'meeting' with Vladimir Putin, rules out surrender</a></strong></p>

<p>Does this mean that Putin, who is often pictured flaunting his youthful looks, will have to stop using botox?&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several reports by the western media have suggested that Putin uses botox. A decade ago news piece by The Guardian, mentioned that rumours were circulating about Putin's use of the particular product.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It had become so viral that Putin's spokesperson had to react to the reports and issue denials. The spokesperson had said, "It's probably just how the light fell. The prime minister is tired."&nbsp;</p>

<p>There's no official response. Meanwhile, Illinois-based Abbvie Inc in a statement on its website said, "Our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine and those affected across the region. As a global biopharmaceutical company, we have a responsibility to patients who depend on our medicines."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are committed to ensuring our patients in Ukraine, Russia, and throughout the region continue to have access to our essential and life-saving medicines. As the tragic events continue to unfold in Ukraine, AbbVie has temporarily suspended operations for all our aesthetics products in Russia," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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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. Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a special "military operation" in the Ukrainian cities in order to 'demilitarise' the neighbouring country on February 24. After the deadly invasion, the Western counties slapped Russia with a series of severe sanctions - isolating the country and leaving it in a dire state. However, if reports are to be believed, sanctions might now directly impact Putin as he won't be able to use Botox to maintain his youthful looks. ALSO READ | Does this $700 million superyacht belong to Russian President Vladimir Putin? Among other international brands, some of the drugmakers have also halted business and supplies to Russia. A report by Independent noted that Eli Lilly and Co, Novartis and Abbvie Inc are reducing their operations in Russia. Reuters quoted Eli Lilly and Co, as saying that it would continue to supply critical medicines for cancer and diabetes treatment. However, in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, it will halt "non-essential" products. As per reports, AbbVie said it has temporarily suspended operations for all its aesthetic products in the country. The drugmaker owns the celebrated wrinkle treatment Botox. ALSO READ | Ukrainian President Zelensky insists on need for a 'meeting' with Vladimir Putin, rules out surrender Does this mean that Putin, who is often pictured flaunting his youthful looks, will have to stop using botox? Several reports by the western media have suggested that Putin uses botox. A decade ago news piece by The Guardian, mentioned that rumours were circulating about Putin's use of the particular product. It had become so viral that Putin's spokesperson had to react to the reports and issue denials. The spokesperson had said, "It's probably just how the light fell. The prime minister is tired." There's no official response. Meanwhile, Illinois-based Abbvie Inc in a statement on its website said, "Our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine and those affected across the region. As a global biopharmaceutical company, we have a responsibility to patients who depend on our medicines." "We are committed to ensuring our patients in Ukraine, Russia, and throughout the region continue to have access to our essential and life-saving medicines. As the tragic events continue to unfold in Ukraine, AbbVie has temporarily suspended operations for all our aesthetics products in Russia," it added. Watch this report: ×

Western sanctions might impact 69-year-old Vladimir Putin's youthful looks. Here's how

<p>If allies of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny are to be believed, a 460ft superyacht, which is presently moored in the port of Marina di Carrara off the west coast of Italy, belongs to Russian President Vladimir Putin. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Navalny's anti-corruption unit has asked the Italian authorities to seize the $700 million vessel. They have offered to prove that it is owned by the Russian leader. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The superyacht’s owner is not publicly listed. It measures 140-metres in length and has several luxury features including two helipads. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-politicians-wife-nabbed-with-28-mn-eu13-mn-cash-stashed-in-suitcases-in-hungary-464483" hreflang="en">Ukrainian politician’s wife nabbed with $28 mn, €1.3 mn cash stashed in suitcases in Hungary</a></strong></p>

<p>The six-deck yacht called 'Scheherezade' has a space equivalent to two apartment blocks, a spa and beauty salon.</p>

<p>The team, which had conducted a probe, has also shared a video of luxury assets of Putin and his family in Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video, which has been shared on Navalny's Youtube channel by presenters Georgy Alburov and Maria Pevchikh, shows that the captain of the ship is British. The rest of the crew is from the FSO and FSB, the two Russian secret services. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-looking-to-use-biological-chemical-weapons-in-ukraine-says-biden-464442">Putin looking to use biological, chemical weapons in Ukraine, claims Biden</a></strong></p>

<p>On social media, Pevchikh said, "We've been investigating Putin's corruption for over a decade, and there is one thing we know for sure – Putin never keeps assets under his own name.” &nbsp;</p>

<p>“A dozen of Putin's personal guards and servants are constantly maintaining one of the world's largest yachts, docked in an Italian port. We think that this is solid enough proof that Scheherezade belongs to Putin himself and must be immediately seized," Pevchikh added. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;</p>


If allies of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny are to be believed, a 460ft superyacht, which is presently moored in the port of Marina di Carrara off the west coast of Italy, belongs to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

If allies of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny are to be believed, a 460ft superyacht, which is presently moored in the port of Marina di Carrara off the west coast of Italy, belongs to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Navalny's anti-corruption unit has asked the Italian authorities to seize the $700 million vessel. They have offered to prove that it is owned by the Russian leader. The superyacht’s owner is not publicly listed. It measures 140-metres in length and has several luxury features including two helipads. Also Read: Ukrainian politician’s wife nabbed with $28 mn, €1.3 mn cash stashed in suitcases in Hungary The six-deck yacht called 'Scheherezade' has a space equivalent to two apartment blocks, a spa and beauty salon. The team, which had conducted a probe, has also shared a video of luxury assets of Putin and his family in Europe. The video, which has been shared on Navalny's Youtube channel by presenters Georgy Alburov and Maria Pevchikh, shows that the captain of the ship is British. The rest of the crew is from the FSO and FSB, the two Russian secret services. Also Read: Putin looking to use biological, chemical weapons in Ukraine, claims Biden On social media, Pevchikh said, "We've been investigating Putin's corruption for over a decade, and there is one thing we know for sure – Putin never keeps assets under his own name.” “A dozen of Putin's personal guards and servants are constantly maintaining one of the world's largest yachts, docked in an Italian port. We think that this is solid enough proof that Scheherezade belongs to Putin himself and must be immediately seized," Pevchikh added. (With inputs from agencies)

Does this $700 million superyacht belong to Russian President Vladimir Putin?  

Russia has summoned US ambassador John Sullivan in protest after President Joe Biden called Vladimir Putin a 'war criminal'. Moscow also warned that bilateral ties between US and Russia are on the verge of rupture.

Russia summons Washington's envoy to Moscow John Sullivan

At least eight people have been killed after a Russian missile attack on Ukrainian capital Kyiv destroyed a shopping mall, with rescue teams still combing the rubble for survivors.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict Update: Russia shells shopping centre in Kyiv, 8 killed

The Ukrainian authorities have claimed that Russia has deployed its special assassination group to eliminate the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Intel reports: Wagner mercenaries in Kyiv with orders to kill Ukrainian President Zelensky

<p>No agreement has been reached so far at the Russian-Ukrainian peace talks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday.</p>

<p>Calling on the countries to exert influence over Ukraine to make Kyiv more constructive at the negotiations, Peskov said significant progress in the talks is yet to be achieved to enable a possible meeting between President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky.</p>

<p>"So far, no significant progress has been made. So far, [it is early] to talk about the meeting of the two presidents, they will simply have nothing to fix. There are no agreements that they can fix," Peskov told reporters, according to Sputnik news agency.</p>

<p>Every actor in the world should now use their influence on Kyiv to make it more willing to reach agreements, the spokesman added.</p>

<p>"Actually, the choice of a place for some such hypothetical meeting is a secondary issue, although we are certainly grateful to all those countries that declare their desire to help such a negotiation process," he added.</p>

<p>The Kremlin’s reaction came a day after Zelensky expressed willingness to negotiate with Putin.</p>

<p>He, however, added that the negotiations could lead to a much bigger global conflict if the talks break down.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-heavy-bombardment-follows-mariupol-forced-to-bury-dead-on-roadside-in-makeshift-graves-464161">As heavy bombardment follows, Mariupol forced to bury dead on roadside</a></p>

<p>“I’m ready for negotiations with him. I was ready for the last two years. And I think that without negotiations we cannot end this war,” Zelensky told CNN in an interview.</p>

<p>“I think that we have to use any format, any chance in order to have a possibility of negotiating, the possibility of talking to Putin. But if these attempts fail, that would mean that this is a third World War.”</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Russian bombings continue to pummel Ukraine as the war entered 26th&nbsp;day on Monday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-us-president-biden-to-visit-poland-on-europe-trip-this-week-464181">Ukraine-Russia conflict: US President Biden to visit Poland this week</a></p>

<p>More Russian troops are heading towards Kyiv, as per reports, as renewed overnight shelling killed at least eight people at a shopping mall in the capital.</p>

<p>Almost 350,000 people are trapped without water and electricity in the port city of Mariupol, which has been bombarded by Russian troops for almost a month in what has been described as a "massive war crime" by EU policy chief Josep Borrell.</p>

<p>Ukrainian leaders also stressed they were standing firm against invaders in Mariupol, which is suffering a critical humanitarian crisis.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


No agreement has been reached so far at the Russian-Ukrainian peace talks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday. Calling on the countries to exert influence over Ukraine to make Kyiv more constructive at the negotiations, Peskov said significant progress in the talks is yet to be achieved to enable a possible meeting between President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky.

No agreement has been reached so far at the Russian-Ukrainian peace talks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday. Calling on the countries to exert influence over Ukraine to make Kyiv more constructive at the negotiations, Peskov said significant progress in the talks is yet to be achieved to enable a possible meeting between President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky. "So far, no significant progress has been made. So far, [it is early] to talk about the meeting of the two presidents, they will simply have nothing to fix. There are no agreements that they can fix," Peskov told reporters, according to Sputnik news agency. Every actor in the world should now use their influence on Kyiv to make it more willing to reach agreements, the spokesman added. "Actually, the choice of a place for some such hypothetical meeting is a secondary issue, although we are certainly grateful to all those countries that declare their desire to help such a negotiation process," he added. The Kremlin’s reaction came a day after Zelensky expressed willingness to negotiate with Putin. He, however, added that the negotiations could lead to a much bigger global conflict if the talks break down. Also read | As heavy bombardment follows, Mariupol forced to bury dead on roadside “I’m ready for negotiations with him. I was ready for the last two years. And I think that without negotiations we cannot end this war,” Zelensky told CNN in an interview. “I think that we have to use any format, any chance in order to have a possibility of negotiating, the possibility of talking to Putin. But if these attempts fail, that would mean that this is a third World War.” Meanwhile, Russian bombings continue to pummel Ukraine as the war entered 26th day on Monday. Also read | Ukraine-Russia conflict: US President Biden to visit Poland this week More Russian troops are heading towards Kyiv, as per reports, as renewed overnight shelling killed at least eight people at a shopping mall in the capital. Almost 350,000 people are trapped without water and electricity in the port city of Mariupol, which has been bombarded by Russian troops for almost a month in what has been described as a "massive war crime" by EU policy chief Josep Borrell. Ukrainian leaders also stressed they were standing firm against invaders in Mariupol, which is suffering a critical humanitarian crisis. (With inputs from agencies)

No breakthrough yet at Russia-Ukraine peace talks, says Kremlin

<p>United Kingdom's Prime Minister Boris Johnson has triggered outrage by comparing Ukrainians fighting Russia's invasion with Brexit.</p>

<p>"I can give you a couple of famous recent examples. When the British people voted for Brexit, in such large, large numbers, I don't believe it was because they were remotely hostile to foreigners. It's because they wanted to be free to do things differently and for this country to be able to run itself," Johnson said.</p>

<p>“There are some around the world, even in some western governments, who invoke what they call realpolitik. And you say that we’re better off making accommodations with tyranny,” he added.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-foreign-minister-lavrov-the-us-is-preventing-kyiv-from-accepting-moscows-demands-463986/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Britons voted in June 2016 by a 52 per cent to 48 per cent margin to leave the European Union, while&nbsp;Ukraine made a formal request to join on February&nbsp;28, four days after Russia sent its troops into the country.</p>

<p>The British leader was accused by opponents of making a crass comparison by likening Ukraine’s fight against invasion to the UK’s exit from the European Union.</p>

<p>Conservative peer Lord Barwell said voting in a referendum was not "in any way comparable with risking your life" in a war, while Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said it was an "insult" to Ukrainians.</p>

<p>"This is an utterly depraved argument," opposition Labour lawmaker Chris Bryant said of Johnson's speech. "Ukraine wants to join the EU. The people of (EU member states) France and Spain are also free."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-uses-ukraine-talks-as-smokescreen-to-increase-violence-says-uk-463793" hreflang="en">Putin uses Ukraine talks as 'smokescreen' to increase violence, says UK</a></strong></p>

<p>Johnson said that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine was a “turning point for the world,” arguing that a victory for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s forces would herald “a new age of intimidation.”</p>

<p>Speaking to a Conservative Party conference in Blackpool, northwest England, Johnson claimed Putin was “terrified” that the example of a free Ukraine would spark a pro-democracy revolution in Russia.</p>

<p>“That is why he is trying so brutally to snuff out the flame of freedom in Ukraine and that’s why it is so vital that he fails,” Johnson said.</p>

<p>“A victorious Putin will not stop in Ukraine. And the end of freedom in Ukraine will mean the extinction of any hope of freedom in Georgia and then Moldova, it will mean the beginning of a new age of intimidation across Eastern Europe from the Baltic to the Black Sea,” Johnson said.</p>

<p>Moscow refers to its actions in Ukraine as a "special operation" to weaken its southern neighbour's military capabilities and root out people it calls dangerous nationalists.</p>

<p>Ukrainian forces have mounted stiff resistance and Western countries have imposed sweeping sanctions on Russia in an effort to force it to withdraw its forces.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


United Kingdom's Prime Minister Boris Johnson has triggered outrage by comparing Ukrainians fighting Russia's invasion with Brexit. "I can give you a couple of famous recent examples.

United Kingdom's Prime Minister Boris Johnson has triggered outrage by comparing Ukrainians fighting Russia's invasion with Brexit. "I can give you a couple of famous recent examples. When the British people voted for Brexit, in such large, large numbers, I don't believe it was because they were remotely hostile to foreigners. It's because they wanted to be free to do things differently and for this country to be able to run itself," Johnson said. “There are some around the world, even in some western governments, who invoke what they call realpolitik. And you say that we’re better off making accommodations with tyranny,” he added. Britons voted in June 2016 by a 52 per cent to 48 per cent margin to leave the European Union, while Ukraine made a formal request to join on February 28, four days after Russia sent its troops into the country. The British leader was accused by opponents of making a crass comparison by likening Ukraine’s fight against invasion to the UK’s exit from the European Union. Conservative peer Lord Barwell said voting in a referendum was not "in any way comparable with risking your life" in a war, while Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said it was an "insult" to Ukrainians. "This is an utterly depraved argument," opposition Labour lawmaker Chris Bryant said of Johnson's speech. "Ukraine wants to join the EU. The people of (EU member states) France and Spain are also free." Also read | Putin uses Ukraine talks as 'smokescreen' to increase violence, says UK Johnson said that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine was a “turning point for the world,” arguing that a victory for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s forces would herald “a new age of intimidation.” Speaking to a Conservative Party conference in Blackpool, northwest England, Johnson claimed Putin was “terrified” that the example of a free Ukraine would spark a pro-democracy revolution in Russia. “That is why he is trying so brutally to snuff out the flame of freedom in Ukraine and that’s why it is so vital that he fails,” Johnson said. “A victorious Putin will not stop in Ukraine. And the end of freedom in Ukraine will mean the extinction of any hope of freedom in Georgia and then Moldova, it will mean the beginning of a new age of intimidation across Eastern Europe from the Baltic to the Black Sea,” Johnson said. Moscow refers to its actions in Ukraine as a "special operation" to weaken its southern neighbour's military capabilities and root out people it calls dangerous nationalists. Ukrainian forces have mounted stiff resistance and Western countries have imposed sweeping sanctions on Russia in an effort to force it to withdraw its forces. (With inputs from agencies)

UK PM Boris Johnson triggers outrage by comparing Ukraine crisis with Brexit

'Price of War': These empty strollers represent children killed during Russian invasion of Ukraine

<p>Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has said Russian President Vladimir Putin is healthy, sane and "in better shape than ever."</p>

<p>"He and I haven't only met as heads of state, we're on friendly terms," Lukashenko said in a recording of the interview shared by state news agency BelTA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'm absolutely privy to all his details, as far as possible, both state and personal."</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/week-4-of-the-russian-invasion-of-ukraine-zelensky-renews-calls-for-talks-with-russia-463788/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Putin's latest public appearance had sparked fresh speculation about the Russian president's health after he walked with a prominent limp.</p>

<p>Lukashenko is supporting Russian President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine, allowing him to launch attacks from Belarusian territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The West, and you, should get this stupidity, this fiction out of your heads," he told the interviewer.</p>

<p>"Putin is absolutely fit, he's in better shape than ever ... This is a completely sane, healthy person, physically healthy - he's an athlete."</p>

<p>"As they say here - he'll catch a cold at all our funerals."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-pro-invasion-rally-russian-president-vladimir-putin-dons-costly-loro-piana-jacket-463688" hreflang="en">As Russians face financial crisis, President Vladimir Putin dons costly Loro Piana jacket in pro-war rally</a></strong></p>

<p>The Belarusian people oppose Russia's invasion of Ukraine, being facilitated by the Minsk regime, and see their country's fate tied to the outcome of the war, Belarus's exiled opposition leader said Thursday.</p>

<p>Svetlana Tikhanovskaya insisted on the need to distinguish between the position of Belarus's autocratic leader Alexander Lukashenko and the people he rules with an iron fist.</p>

<p>"These are two different issues," she said in an interview in Geneva.</p>

<p>Belarusians, she said, were now not only forced to fight against their own regime, "but also for Ukrainians, because we understand that the fate of Belarus depends on the fate of Ukraine".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-conflict-time-for-meaningful-talks-says-president-volodymyr-zelenskiy-463642">Ukraine-Russia conflict: Time for meaningful talks, says President Zelensky</a></strong></p>

<p>The West responded to Belarus hosting Russian troops for the invasion by slamming it with new tough sanctions along with Russia.</p>

<p>Lukashenko ominously warned that more sanctions from the West are “pushing the world to the brink of World War III.”</p>

<p>The Belarusian leader, who said previously that his country could host Russian nuclear weapons, said that he warned French President Emmanuel Macron in a call Saturday that he was ready to make the move if the US and its allies deploy nuclear weapons to NATO members Poland and Lithuania, which border Belarus.</p>

<p>"The collapse of the Soviet Union is a tragedy," Lukashenko said. "If the Soviet Union had survived to this day, we could have avoided all sorts of conflicts in the world...</p>

<p>"While the USSR existed, the world was multipolar and one pole balanced the other," he said. "Now the reason for what's happening in the world is unipolarity - the monopolisation of our planet by the United States of America."<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has said Russian President Vladimir Putin is healthy, sane and "in better shape than ever." "He and I haven't only met as heads of state, we're on friendly terms," Lukashenko said in a recording of the interview shared by state news agency BelTA.

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has said Russian President Vladimir Putin is healthy, sane and "in better shape than ever." "He and I haven't only met as heads of state, we're on friendly terms," Lukashenko said in a recording of the interview shared by state news agency BelTA. "I'm absolutely privy to all his details, as far as possible, both state and personal." Putin's latest public appearance had sparked fresh speculation about the Russian president's health after he walked with a prominent limp. Lukashenko is supporting Russian President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine, allowing him to launch attacks from Belarusian territory. "The West, and you, should get this stupidity, this fiction out of your heads," he told the interviewer. "Putin is absolutely fit, he's in better shape than ever ... This is a completely sane, healthy person, physically healthy - he's an athlete." "As they say here - he'll catch a cold at all our funerals." Also read | As Russians face financial crisis, President Vladimir Putin dons costly Loro Piana jacket in pro-war rally The Belarusian people oppose Russia's invasion of Ukraine, being facilitated by the Minsk regime, and see their country's fate tied to the outcome of the war, Belarus's exiled opposition leader said Thursday. Svetlana Tikhanovskaya insisted on the need to distinguish between the position of Belarus's autocratic leader Alexander Lukashenko and the people he rules with an iron fist. "These are two different issues," she said in an interview in Geneva. Belarusians, she said, were now not only forced to fight against their own regime, "but also for Ukrainians, because we understand that the fate of Belarus depends on the fate of Ukraine". Also read | Ukraine-Russia conflict: Time for meaningful talks, says President Zelensky The West responded to Belarus hosting Russian troops for the invasion by slamming it with new tough sanctions along with Russia. Lukashenko ominously warned that more sanctions from the West are “pushing the world to the brink of World War III.” The Belarusian leader, who said previously that his country could host Russian nuclear weapons, said that he warned French President Emmanuel Macron in a call Saturday that he was ready to make the move if the US and its allies deploy nuclear weapons to NATO members Poland and Lithuania, which border Belarus. "The collapse of the Soviet Union is a tragedy," Lukashenko said. "If the Soviet Union had survived to this day, we could have avoided all sorts of conflicts in the world... "While the USSR existed, the world was multipolar and one pole balanced the other," he said. "Now the reason for what's happening in the world is unipolarity - the monopolisation of our planet by the United States of America." (With inputs from agencies)

Belarus President Lukashenko dismisses concerns about Putin's health

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin’s popularity has gone down drastically on the global stage following his invasion of Ukraine. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p>A number of countries imposing sanctions on him and his cabinet members and now a Ukrainian government department has come up with an idea to build a rocket capable of launching him to Jupiter because 'it is a gas giant and the largest planet in the solar system'.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p>The Ministry of Digital Transformation has launched a fundraiser campaign for this endeavour and it has already reached more than $2mn in donations.</p>

<p><o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/villas-in-miami-putin-lashes-out-scum-and-traitors-amid-ukraine-war-463167">'Villas in Miami': Putin lashes out at 'scum' and 'traitors' amid Ukraine war</a></p>

<p>The website has the picture of Putin on a rocket and it says - "Donate to help us build a rocket that will send a bloody dictator far far away."<o:p></o:p></p>

<p>&nbsp;The goal of the government department is to raise $100mn and the donators are asked to send a minimum of $2.99 (£2.29) to 'purchase a rocket'. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-condemns-us-president-biden-for-calling-putin-war-criminal-463022">Russia condemns US President Biden for calling Putin 'war criminal'</a></p>

<p><o:p></o:p></p>

<p>In reality, Ukraine’s vice Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov revealed that all the donations will go towards the armed forces and city restorations.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p>'Everyone wants Putin to die. Until this happens, we give Ukrainians and the whole world a unique opportunity: Send Putin to Jupiter. Donate $2.99 for a rocket. All funds will be directed to the restoration of the destroyed infrastructure!,' Fedorov wrote on Twitter.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-to-get-us-stingers-javelin-anti-armour-systems-is-it-a-gamechanger-463142" hreflang="en">Ukraine to get US Stingers, Javelin, anti-armour systems; is it a gamechanger?</a></p>

<p><o:p></o:p></p>

<p>The idea of the fundraiser campaign came from Ukrainian-owner State Enterprise Diia and was later endorsed by the official Ministry of Digital Transformation. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p>With donations coming in from all around the world, it aims to reach 100 million citizens to help 'send the one Evil to Jupiter'.</p>

<p><o:p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;</strong></o:p><strong>United States to provide military assistance to Kyiv</strong><o:p></o:p></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-states-to-provide-military-assistance-to-kyiv-463143/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


Russian President Vladimir Putin’s popularity has gone down drastically on the global stage following his invasion of Ukraine. A number of countries imposing sanctions on him and his cabinet members and now a Ukrainian government department has come up with an idea to build a rocket capable of launching him to Jupiter because 'it is a gas giant and the largest planet in the solar system'.

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s popularity has gone down drastically on the global stage following his invasion of Ukraine. A number of countries imposing sanctions on him and his cabinet members and now a Ukrainian government department has come up with an idea to build a rocket capable of launching him to Jupiter because 'it is a gas giant and the largest planet in the solar system'. The Ministry of Digital Transformation has launched a fundraiser campaign for this endeavour and it has already reached more than $2mn in donations. Also read | 'Villas in Miami': Putin lashes out at 'scum' and 'traitors' amid Ukraine war The website has the picture of Putin on a rocket and it says - "Donate to help us build a rocket that will send a bloody dictator far far away." The goal of the government department is to raise $100mn and the donators are asked to send a minimum of $2.99 (£2.29) to 'purchase a rocket'. Also read | Russia condemns US President Biden for calling Putin 'war criminal' In reality, Ukraine’s vice Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov revealed that all the donations will go towards the armed forces and city restorations. 'Everyone wants Putin to die. Until this happens, we give Ukrainians and the whole world a unique opportunity: Send Putin to Jupiter. Donate $2.99 for a rocket. All funds will be directed to the restoration of the destroyed infrastructure!,' Fedorov wrote on Twitter. Also read | Ukraine to get US Stingers, Javelin, anti-armour systems; is it a gamechanger? The idea of the fundraiser campaign came from Ukrainian-owner State Enterprise Diia and was later endorsed by the official Ministry of Digital Transformation. With donations coming in from all around the world, it aims to reach 100 million citizens to help 'send the one Evil to Jupiter'. Watch | United States to provide military assistance to Kyiv

Fundraiser campaign to send Vladimir Putin to Jupiter reaches $2million

<p>'Terminator'&nbsp;star Arnold Schwarzenegger appealed to Vladimir Putin on Thursday to end the "senseless" war in Ukraine and praised Russians protesting the conflict as his "new heroes."</p>

<p>"Ukraine did not start this war," the former California governor said in an emotional message to the people of Russia and Russian troops posted to his Twitter account and other platforms.</p>

<p>"I'm speaking to you today because there are things going on in the world that are being kept from you, terrible things that you should know about," he said in the powerful nine-minute video that was subtitled in Russian.</p>

<p>The Austrian-born former bodybuilding champion, whose film 'Red Heat'&nbsp;was the first American movie filmed in Moscow's Red Square, spoke of his affection for the Russian people and meeting his idol, Russian weightlifter Yuri Vlasov, when he was 14 years old.</p>

<p>"The strength and the heart of the Russian people have always inspired me," he said. "That is why I hope that you will let me tell you the truth about the war in Ukraine."</p>

<p>"I know that your government has told you that this is a war to 'de-Nazify' Ukraine," he said. "This is not true. Those in power in the Kremlin started this war. This is not the Russian people's war."</p>

<p>Schwarzenegger said "the world has turned against Russia because of its actions in Ukraine -- whole city blocks have been flattened by Russian artillery and bombs, including a children's hospital and a maternity hospital.</p>

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<p>"Because of its brutality, Russia is now isolated from the society of nations," he said.</p>

<p>In an appeal to Russian troops, Schwarzenegger recalled the wounds suffered by his father while fighting for the Nazis in Russia during World War II.</p>

<p>"He was broken physically and mentally and lived the rest of his life in pain," he said. "To the Russian troops listening to this broadcast... I don't want you to be broken like my father.</p>

<p>"This is not the war to defend Russia that your grandfathers or your great-grandfathers fought," he said. "This is an illegal war. Your lives, your limbs, your futures have been sacrificed for a senseless war condemned by the entire world."</p>

<p>Addressing Putin directly, Schwarzenegger said: "You started this war. You are leading this war. You can stop this war." He closed the message with praise for Russians risking arrest by protesting against the war.</p>

<p>"The world has seen your bravery," he said. "You are my new heroes."</p>


'Terminator' star Arnold Schwarzenegger appealed to Vladimir Putin on Thursday to end the "senseless" war in Ukraine and praised Russians protesting the conflict as his "new heroes.

'Terminator' star Arnold Schwarzenegger appealed to Vladimir Putin on Thursday to end the "senseless" war in Ukraine and praised Russians protesting the conflict as his "new heroes." "Ukraine did not start this war," the former California governor said in an emotional message to the people of Russia and Russian troops posted to his Twitter account and other platforms. "I'm speaking to you today because there are things going on in the world that are being kept from you, terrible things that you should know about," he said in the powerful nine-minute video that was subtitled in Russian. The Austrian-born former bodybuilding champion, whose film 'Red Heat' was the first American movie filmed in Moscow's Red Square, spoke of his affection for the Russian people and meeting his idol, Russian weightlifter Yuri Vlasov, when he was 14 years old. "The strength and the heart of the Russian people have always inspired me," he said. "That is why I hope that you will let me tell you the truth about the war in Ukraine." "I know that your government has told you that this is a war to 'de-Nazify' Ukraine," he said. "This is not true. Those in power in the Kremlin started this war. This is not the Russian people's war." Schwarzenegger said "the world has turned against Russia because of its actions in Ukraine -- whole city blocks have been flattened by Russian artillery and bombs, including a children's hospital and a maternity hospital. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Arnold Schwarzenegger (@schwarzenegger) × "Because of its brutality, Russia is now isolated from the society of nations," he said. In an appeal to Russian troops, Schwarzenegger recalled the wounds suffered by his father while fighting for the Nazis in Russia during World War II. "He was broken physically and mentally and lived the rest of his life in pain," he said. "To the Russian troops listening to this broadcast... I don't want you to be broken like my father. "This is not the war to defend Russia that your grandfathers or your great-grandfathers fought," he said. "This is an illegal war. Your lives, your limbs, your futures have been sacrificed for a senseless war condemned by the entire world." Addressing Putin directly, Schwarzenegger said: "You started this war. You are leading this war. You can stop this war." He closed the message with praise for Russians risking arrest by protesting against the war. "The world has seen your bravery," he said. "You are my new heroes."

'De-Nazify Ukraine? Not true': Arnold Schwarzenegger's powerful appeal to Vladimir Putin - Watch

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin’s speech at a pro-war rally in a Moscow stadium was cut-off mysteriously on Friday when he was talking on the occasion of the eighth anniversary of the annexation of Crimea.</p>

<p>According to reports, Russian state television suddenly cut away from Putin hailing its “special operation in Ukraine” and the bravery of its soldiers to patriotic songs – prompting confusion among audiences.</p>

<p>The incident took place when was speaking in front of 100,000 supporters at Luzhniki Stadium when his speech was interrupted mid-way to play a concert by singer and composer Oleg Gazmanov.</p>

<p>A woman translating his speech could be heard saying: “The beginning of the operation coincided by accident with the birthday of one of our military leaders…” before the feed cut out.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/security-assessment-underway-finland-can-join-nato-by-spring-finnish-envoy-to-india-tells-wion-463498">Finland could join NATO by spring, Finnish envoy to India tells WION</a></p>

<p>Such interruptions are highly unusual considering that Russian media is tightly controlled by the government.</p>

<p>Around 10 minutes later, Putin’s speech, which lasted about five minutes, was re-aired from the start soon afterwards, following which he walked off the stage.</p>

<p>Before anyone could speculate the reasons, the Kremlin quickly issued a statement saying that it was a “technical glitch” that interrupted Putin's speech.</p>

<p><strong>Also read </strong>|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-conflict-in-no-ones-interest-says-president-xi-to-biden-463557">Ukraine war: Conflict in no one's interest, says President Xi to Biden</a></p>

<p>According to RIA news agency, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said a server glitch had caused the interruption.</p>

<p>During his speech, Putin sought to justify his actions by claiming that Ukraine was committing genocide in the Donbas region.</p>

<p>“This really was genocide. Stopping that was the goal of the special operation,” Putin said, adding – contrary to evidence Ukrainian civilians had welcomed Moscow’s invading troops.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin’s speech at a pro-war rally in a Moscow stadium was cut-off mysteriously on Friday when he was talking on the occasion of the eighth anniversary of the annexation of Crimea.

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s speech at a pro-war rally in a Moscow stadium was cut-off mysteriously on Friday when he was talking on the occasion of the eighth anniversary of the annexation of Crimea. According to reports, Russian state television suddenly cut away from Putin hailing its “special operation in Ukraine” and the bravery of its soldiers to patriotic songs – prompting confusion among audiences. The incident took place when was speaking in front of 100,000 supporters at Luzhniki Stadium when his speech was interrupted mid-way to play a concert by singer and composer Oleg Gazmanov. A woman translating his speech could be heard saying: “The beginning of the operation coincided by accident with the birthday of one of our military leaders…” before the feed cut out. Also read | Finland could join NATO by spring, Finnish envoy to India tells WION Such interruptions are highly unusual considering that Russian media is tightly controlled by the government. Around 10 minutes later, Putin’s speech, which lasted about five minutes, was re-aired from the start soon afterwards, following which he walked off the stage. Before anyone could speculate the reasons, the Kremlin quickly issued a statement saying that it was a “technical glitch” that interrupted Putin's speech. Also read | Ukraine war: Conflict in no one's interest, says President Xi to Biden According to RIA news agency, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said a server glitch had caused the interruption. During his speech, Putin sought to justify his actions by claiming that Ukraine was committing genocide in the Donbas region. “This really was genocide. Stopping that was the goal of the special operation,” Putin said, adding – contrary to evidence Ukrainian civilians had welcomed Moscow’s invading troops. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin's speech hailing Ukraine war cut off mid-way by Russian state broadcaster

<p>As Russia faces intense pressure in battlefield, President Vladimir Putin has issued a warning to "traitors" on Wednesday. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The leader said that the West may try to use them as a fifth column to destroy Russia. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Not just this, Putin said that&nbsp;Russians would be able to differentiate the "patriots from the scum".</p>

<p>In Moscow, warnings in the form of graffiti have come up on the doors of activists. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/targeting-civilians-is-a-war-crime-antony-blinken-believes-russia-guilty-of-committing-war-crimes-463292">Antony Blinken believes Russia guilty of committing war crimes</a></strong></p>

<p>In just hours of the speech, a Moscow-based activist Dmitry Ivanov, said that his mother witnessed a graffiti message on the door to their apartment landing, saying "Don't betray the motherland Dima". &nbsp;</p>

<p>In comments to government ministers on Wednesday, Putin said that Russians would spit out traitors "like gnats". He also said that society would be better for it. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am convinced that this natural and necessary self-cleansing of society will only strengthen our country, our solidarity, cohesion and readiness to meet any challenge," Putin said. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-russias-advance-halts-in-ukraine-us-warns-china-over-backing-putin-463300" hreflang="en">As Russia's advance halts in Ukraine, US warns China over backing Putin</a></strong></p>

<p>On Thursday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, said many people were showing themselves to be traitors. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"They are vanishing from our lives themselves. Some people are leaving their posts, some are leaving their active work life, some leave the country and move to other countries. That is how this cleansing happens," Peskov said. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


As Russia faces intense pressure in battlefield, President Vladimir Putin has issued a warning to "traitors" on Wednesday. The leader said that the West may try to use them as a fifth column to destroy Russia.

As Russia faces intense pressure in battlefield, President Vladimir Putin has issued a warning to "traitors" on Wednesday. The leader said that the West may try to use them as a fifth column to destroy Russia. Not just this, Putin said that Russians would be able to differentiate the "patriots from the scum". In Moscow, warnings in the form of graffiti have come up on the doors of activists. Also Read: Antony Blinken believes Russia guilty of committing war crimes In just hours of the speech, a Moscow-based activist Dmitry Ivanov, said that his mother witnessed a graffiti message on the door to their apartment landing, saying "Don't betray the motherland Dima". In comments to government ministers on Wednesday, Putin said that Russians would spit out traitors "like gnats". He also said that society would be better for it. "I am convinced that this natural and necessary self-cleansing of society will only strengthen our country, our solidarity, cohesion and readiness to meet any challenge," Putin said. Also Read: As Russia's advance halts in Ukraine, US warns China over backing Putin On Thursday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, said many people were showing themselves to be traitors. "They are vanishing from our lives themselves. Some people are leaving their posts, some are leaving their active work life, some leave the country and move to other countries. That is how this cleansing happens," Peskov said. (With inputs from agencies)

As Ukraine conflict intensifies, Russian President Vladimir Putin issues warning to 'traitors'

<p>Russia’s war on Ukraine is causing a strategic re-think in Finland, which shares a 1300-km border with Russia.</p>

<p>Though Finland has remained militarily non-aligned, the country has been a member of the European Union and a partner of NATO. However, Finn leaders are now contemplating formally joining the NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization), a political and military alliance of countries in Europe and North America.</p>

<p>Notably, it was the growing proximity to the NATO and US that led to Russia's invasion and the ongoing war on Ukraine.</p>

<p>To better understand Finland's stance, WION spoke to Ritva Koukku-Ronde, Finland's Ambassador to India.</p>

<p>According to the diplomat, the Government of Finland is looking at the security situation in Europe and discussing to prepare a White Paper assessing their security situation, which will be followed by a parliamentary discussion.</p>

<p>She added that the country was having this discussion in a relatively short duration and also working closely with Sweden and NATO countries.</p>

<p>When queried on Russia's warning (threat of political and military consequences) against any move by Finland and Sweden to join NATO, she said that every independent and sovereign country has the right to make their decisions on choosing who their allies are and not.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-russias-advance-halts-in-ukraine-us-warns-china-over-backing-putin-463300">As Russia's advance halts in Ukraine, US warns China over backing Putin</a></p>

<p>"It is the right of independent Finland to make own security and other decisions, just as it is for Ukraine. Of course, Ukraine's sovereignty should be respected and, in this case, Russia has strongly violated international laws and the UN Charter with its aggression. Finland, European Union and a majority of international community condemns this one-sided aggression.”</p>

<p>At a time when Russian troops continue their attack on Ukraine, Russia's “militarily non-aligned” neighbour Finland is taking part in 'Cold Response 2022', a military exercise of troops from NATO countries.</p>

<p>When this was pointed out, the ambassador said, "Finland is militarily non-aligned, but we are a partner in NATO, and we are traditionally exercising with NATO partners and Nordic countries. This exercise is also part of regular exercises which we had planned a very long time ago. The coincidence is now the Russian aggression, which has taken all of us by surprise.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/norway-prepared-for-up-to-100000-ukraine-refugees-says-pm-jonas-gahr-stoere-463453">Norway prepared for up to 100,000 Ukraine refugees, says PM</a></p>

<p>On how Russia would see the ‘Exercise Cold Response 2022’ happening at this time, Finland's top diplomat said that it was for Russia, as an independent country, to think the way they do over these exercises.</p>

<p>However, she mentioned that Finland, as an independent nation, had the right to exercise its military capabilities and this exercise is a part of that. "Finnish defence is totally interoperable with NATO forces and it is good to train every now and then.”</p>

<p>"We always take our time on preparing carefully… The security assessment is underway… Most probably it would be completed during spring and let's see what happens after that and what is the situation,” she replied on the question regarding when Finland would decide on joining NATO formally as a member.</p>


Russia’s war on Ukraine is causing a strategic re-think in Finland, which shares a 1300-km border with Russia. Though Finland has remained militarily non-aligned, the country has been a member of the European Union and a partner of NATO.

Russia’s war on Ukraine is causing a strategic re-think in Finland, which shares a 1300-km border with Russia. Though Finland has remained militarily non-aligned, the country has been a member of the European Union and a partner of NATO. However, Finn leaders are now contemplating formally joining the NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization), a political and military alliance of countries in Europe and North America. Notably, it was the growing proximity to the NATO and US that led to Russia's invasion and the ongoing war on Ukraine. To better understand Finland's stance, WION spoke to Ritva Koukku-Ronde, Finland's Ambassador to India. According to the diplomat, the Government of Finland is looking at the security situation in Europe and discussing to prepare a White Paper assessing their security situation, which will be followed by a parliamentary discussion. She added that the country was having this discussion in a relatively short duration and also working closely with Sweden and NATO countries. When queried on Russia's warning (threat of political and military consequences) against any move by Finland and Sweden to join NATO, she said that every independent and sovereign country has the right to make their decisions on choosing who their allies are and not. Also read | As Russia's advance halts in Ukraine, US warns China over backing Putin "It is the right of independent Finland to make own security and other decisions, just as it is for Ukraine. Of course, Ukraine's sovereignty should be respected and, in this case, Russia has strongly violated international laws and the UN Charter with its aggression. Finland, European Union and a majority of international community condemns this one-sided aggression.” At a time when Russian troops continue their attack on Ukraine, Russia's “militarily non-aligned” neighbour Finland is taking part in 'Cold Response 2022', a military exercise of troops from NATO countries. When this was pointed out, the ambassador said, "Finland is militarily non-aligned, but we are a partner in NATO, and we are traditionally exercising with NATO partners and Nordic countries. This exercise is also part of regular exercises which we had planned a very long time ago. The coincidence is now the Russian aggression, which has taken all of us by surprise.” Also read | Norway prepared for up to 100,000 Ukraine refugees, says PM On how Russia would see the ‘Exercise Cold Response 2022’ happening at this time, Finland's top diplomat said that it was for Russia, as an independent country, to think the way they do over these exercises. However, she mentioned that Finland, as an independent nation, had the right to exercise its military capabilities and this exercise is a part of that. "Finnish defence is totally interoperable with NATO forces and it is good to train every now and then.” "We always take our time on preparing carefully… The security assessment is underway… Most probably it would be completed during spring and let's see what happens after that and what is the situation,” she replied on the question regarding when Finland would decide on joining NATO formally as a member.

‘Security assessment underway, Finland could join NATO by spring', Finnish envoy to India tells WION

<p>The Ukraine crisis may constitute a more impactful, historic watershed than the 1989 fall of the Berlin wall in the mind of Singapore Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan.</p>

<p>Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is “perhaps even a bigger moment than the fall of the Berlin Wall,” Mr. Balakrishnan said.</p>

<p>“We believe we are at an inflection point,” he added. “Little Singapore is standing up for principles and expressing a hope for the rules of engagement for this new era.”</p>

<p>In a break with diplomatic tradition, Singapore joined Western nations in sanctioning Russia, the first Southeast Asian nation to do so in the absence of a United Nations Security Council resolution.</p>

<p>Mr. Balakrishnan may well be right even if the Berlin wall sparked the end of communism as an ideology rather than a power-driven political system, while Ukraine is likely to take Russia out of the race for global power in an emerging bi- or multipolar world order.</p>

<p>Despite the characterisation of the Ukraine crisis as one that pits democracy against autocracy and the fact that the vast majority of nations that have taken action against Russia happen to be democracies, the stakes in the crisis are really about adherence to international law irrespective of a country’s political system.</p>

<p>That is evident in the diddling of countries like China, India, and the United Arab Emirates that have tried to straddle a middle ground. So have Israel and Turkey, exploiting their attempts to mediate an end to the Ukraine crisis.</p>

<p>China has struggled to uphold its long-standing principle of rejection of the interference in the affairs of others with its close partnership with Russia that was further cemented during a visit to Beijing in early February by Russian President Vladimir Putin.</p>

<p>UAE Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed told Mr. Putin in a March 1 phone call, on the back of Emirati interference in multiple countries, including Libya and Yemen, that “Russia has a right to ensure national security.” Mr. Bin Zayed was referring to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>Short of the war, the destruction, and the massive loss of life, Ukraine is in many ways similar to the Gulf crisis in which the UAE, together with Saudi Arabia, led a 3.5-year-long economic and diplomatic boycott of Qatar that, like the Russian invasion, was designed to hollow out the sovereignty of a neighbouring state.</p>

<p>Russia’s invasion constitutes the third time in a decade after the 2017-2021 Gulf crisis and the 2014 Russian annexation of Crimea that autocratic states have sought to ignore international law and brutally impose their will on a neighbour.</p>

<p>In that sense, Mr. Balakrishnan’s equation of the invasion with the Berlin wall hits the nail on the head. It also suggests that failure to act immediately to stop violations of international law opens the door to ever more egregious trespassings, including massive violations of human rights.</p>

<p>The analogies between the Ukraine and Gulf crises are most evident in the demands put forward in both incidents.</p>

<p>Like the UAE and Saudi Arabia, Russia has put maximalist demands on the table that would subject Ukraine to its foreign, defense, and domestic policies and bend the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) to its will.</p>

<p>At the time, the UAE and Saudi Arabia demanded that Qatar cut its ties to Islamists, shutter the free-wheeling Al Jazeera television network, expel Turkish troops, and effectively break relations with Iran.</p>

<p>Similarly, Russia demands that NATO withdraw from member states on Russia’s borders and that Ukraine halt its resistance to the invasion, alter its constitution to ensure that Ukraine cannot become a member of the European Union and/or NATO, and recognise Russia's annexation of Crimea and the Russia-supported breakaway republics of Donetsk and Lugansk.</p>

<p>Qatari resilience in rejecting the UAE-Saudi demands and its ability to compensate for the fallout of the boycott ultimately persuaded the two states to drop their demands and lift the embargo in January 2021.</p>

<p>In what appears to be a manoeuvre similar to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s recognition that Ukraine is unlikely to become a NATO member and may not want to do so given NATO’s refusal to impose a no-fly zone, Qatar at the time quietly made concessions that fell far short of Emirati-Saudi demands and did not fundamentally alter the Gulf state’s policies.</p>

<p>Islamists, including members of the Muslim Brotherhood, were asked to relocate to Istanbul and London while Al Jazeera toned down its more critical coverage of the UAE and Saudi Arabia.</p>

<p>Virtually absent in this week's Al Jazeera newscasts was any reporting of the execution of 81 people in the kingdom, many of them Shiite activists. However, the Al Jazeera English website did report the executions. They are believed to have prompted Iran’s suspension of Iraqi-sponsored talks with Saudi Arabia designed to reduce tensions between the two regional rivals.</p>

<p>The failure of the Saudi-UAE-led boycott may have shown the limits of their power, but ending it without the ability to claim success did not threaten the survival of the two countries' rulers. However, finding a face-saving solution to the Ukraine crisis that ultimately does not endanger the position of Mr. Putin could prove a lot more complicated.</p>

<p>The international community and Qatar were willing to give Mr. Bin Zayed and his Saudi counterpart, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a pass. That luxury is unlikely to be accorded to Mr. Putin.</p>

<p><em><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></em></p>


The Ukraine crisis may constitute a more impactful, historic watershed than the 1989 fall of the Berlin wall in the mind of Singapore Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan.

The Ukraine crisis may constitute a more impactful, historic watershed than the 1989 fall of the Berlin wall in the mind of Singapore Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is “perhaps even a bigger moment than the fall of the Berlin Wall,” Mr. Balakrishnan said. “We believe we are at an inflection point,” he added. “Little Singapore is standing up for principles and expressing a hope for the rules of engagement for this new era.” In a break with diplomatic tradition, Singapore joined Western nations in sanctioning Russia, the first Southeast Asian nation to do so in the absence of a United Nations Security Council resolution. Mr. Balakrishnan may well be right even if the Berlin wall sparked the end of communism as an ideology rather than a power-driven political system, while Ukraine is likely to take Russia out of the race for global power in an emerging bi- or multipolar world order. Despite the characterisation of the Ukraine crisis as one that pits democracy against autocracy and the fact that the vast majority of nations that have taken action against Russia happen to be democracies, the stakes in the crisis are really about adherence to international law irrespective of a country’s political system. That is evident in the diddling of countries like China, India, and the United Arab Emirates that have tried to straddle a middle ground. So have Israel and Turkey, exploiting their attempts to mediate an end to the Ukraine crisis. China has struggled to uphold its long-standing principle of rejection of the interference in the affairs of others with its close partnership with Russia that was further cemented during a visit to Beijing in early February by Russian President Vladimir Putin. UAE Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed told Mr. Putin in a March 1 phone call, on the back of Emirati interference in multiple countries, including Libya and Yemen, that “Russia has a right to ensure national security.” Mr. Bin Zayed was referring to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Short of the war, the destruction, and the massive loss of life, Ukraine is in many ways similar to the Gulf crisis in which the UAE, together with Saudi Arabia, led a 3.5-year-long economic and diplomatic boycott of Qatar that, like the Russian invasion, was designed to hollow out the sovereignty of a neighbouring state. Russia’s invasion constitutes the third time in a decade after the 2017-2021 Gulf crisis and the 2014 Russian annexation of Crimea that autocratic states have sought to ignore international law and brutally impose their will on a neighbour. In that sense, Mr. Balakrishnan’s equation of the invasion with the Berlin wall hits the nail on the head. It also suggests that failure to act immediately to stop violations of international law opens the door to ever more egregious trespassings, including massive violations of human rights. The analogies between the Ukraine and Gulf crises are most evident in the demands put forward in both incidents. Like the UAE and Saudi Arabia, Russia has put maximalist demands on the table that would subject Ukraine to its foreign, defense, and domestic policies and bend the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) to its will. At the time, the UAE and Saudi Arabia demanded that Qatar cut its ties to Islamists, shutter the free-wheeling Al Jazeera television network, expel Turkish troops, and effectively break relations with Iran. Similarly, Russia demands that NATO withdraw from member states on Russia’s borders and that Ukraine halt its resistance to the invasion, alter its constitution to ensure that Ukraine cannot become a member of the European Union and/or NATO, and recognise Russia's annexation of Crimea and the Russia-supported breakaway republics of Donetsk and Lugansk. Qatari resilience in rejecting the UAE-Saudi demands and its ability to compensate for the fallout of the boycott ultimately persuaded the two states to drop their demands and lift the embargo in January 2021. In what appears to be a manoeuvre similar to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s recognition that Ukraine is unlikely to become a NATO member and may not want to do so given NATO’s refusal to impose a no-fly zone, Qatar at the time quietly made concessions that fell far short of Emirati-Saudi demands and did not fundamentally alter the Gulf state’s policies. Islamists, including members of the Muslim Brotherhood, were asked to relocate to Istanbul and London while Al Jazeera toned down its more critical coverage of the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Virtually absent in this week's Al Jazeera newscasts was any reporting of the execution of 81 people in the kingdom, many of them Shiite activists. However, the Al Jazeera English website did report the executions. They are believed to have prompted Iran’s suspension of Iraqi-sponsored talks with Saudi Arabia designed to reduce tensions between the two regional rivals. The failure of the Saudi-UAE-led boycott may have shown the limits of their power, but ending it without the ability to claim success did not threaten the survival of the two countries' rulers. However, finding a face-saving solution to the Ukraine crisis that ultimately does not endanger the position of Mr. Putin could prove a lot more complicated. The international community and Qatar were willing to give Mr. Bin Zayed and his Saudi counterpart, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a pass. That luxury is unlikely to be accorded to Mr. Putin. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

The Gulf crisis has lessons for Vladimir Putin. Not all may work in his favour

<p>When President Joe Biden on Wednesday declared to reporters, almost off the cuff, that Russian President Vladimir Putin was a “war criminal,” he was speaking from the heart, his aides said, reacting to the wrenching images of civilians — including children — being dragged, dead or disfigured, from ruins of buildings shelled by Russian forces.</p>

<p>But he was also personalizing the conflict, in a way past presidents have avoided at moments of crisis with the United States’ leading nuclear-armed adversary. And his remark underscored how personal condemnation has become policy, as Biden and his top aides frame Putin as a pariah, an indiscriminate killer who should be standing trial at The Hague.</p>

<p>Biden amplified his attacks Thursday, calling Putin “a murderous dictator, a pure thug who is waging an immoral war against the people of Ukraine.” Secretary of State Antony Blinken chimed in, saying: “Personally, I agree. Intentionally targeting civilians is a war crime.”</p>

<p>But what began as a visceral reaction appears to reflect a strategic decision. Branding Putin as a war criminal supports the administration’s case as it simultaneously tries to keep the Western alliance unified and attempts to pressure China not to bail Putin out of his economic crisis and military mistakes. That effort will face a new test Friday, when Biden is scheduled to talk to Chinese President Xi Jinping for the first time since the invasion, and warn him against supplying weapons to Putin.</p>

<p>And Biden’s comments came after three weeks in which the United States and its allies piled sanctions on Russia that the administration said were designed to force Putin to withdraw his forces from Ukraine. But diplomats and intelligence officials from several countries say those sanctions are seen by Putin as an effort to stoke Russian unrest, turning both wealthy oligarchs and ordinary Russians against his rule.</p>

<p>The White House says that “regime change” in Russia is not on Washington’s strategic agenda. But in past cases when presidents have called national leaders war criminals — Iraq's Saddam Hussein or Syria's Bashar Assad — it has frequently been linked to an effort, covert or overt, to drive them from office.</p>

<p>When promised anonymity, many American officials say that they cannot imagine that Ukraine could be safe from Russian military action while Putin, stewing in grievances and now angry at his own military’s performance, is still in office.</p>

<p>Last week, CIA Director William Burns, a former U.S. ambassador to Moscow who knew Putin as he tightened his control over Russia, told the House Intelligence Committee that Putin’s moves have been “premeditated and savage.” He predicted that Putin was “likely to double down and try to grind down the Ukrainian military with no regard for civilian casualties.”</p>

<p>“He has no sustainable political endgame in the face of what is going to continue to be fierce resistance from Ukrainians,” Burns said.</p>

<p>Other U.S. intelligence officials have said that Putin views the conflict not only as a war to reclaim Ukraine but to push back on American power. They said he increasingly sees himself wrapped in a struggle with Biden, whom he views as the last of a generation of Washington Cold Warriors.</p>

<p>Biden and Putin have not talked since Feb. 12, when the American president made one last attempt to warn the Russian leader that an attack would lead to crushing sanctions, more arms to the Ukrainians and a major buildup of troops and arms on NATO’s eastern front. That buildup was exactly the result Putin was trying to forestall.</p>

<p>It is almost unimaginable that the two men will be dealing with each other directly anytime soon. Hours after Biden’s “war criminal” comments, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitri Peskov called the characterization “unacceptable and unforgivable rhetoric.”</p>

<p>Putin has not said much about Biden, but he vowed this week to cleanse Russia of “scum and traitors” who he said were being organized by the West as a “fifth column” to destroy the country.</p>

<p>The enmity between the two men has been barely disguised for years, since the day when Biden, as vice president, by his account told Putin that he had looked in his eyes and had seen no soul. “We understand one another,” Putin is said to have replied.</p>

<p>But it comes at a moment when Washington’s biggest concern is that Putin will escalate the war — and reach for weapons of mass destruction.</p>

<p>Just hours before Biden’s declaration, his national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, told Nikolai Patrushev, Putin’s main national security adviser, that “any possible Russian decision to use chemical or biological weapons in Ukraine” would result in an even harsher Western response. Several of Biden's aides have been concerned that if the Russian leader feels cornered or believes the United States is trying to foment opposition, the chances that he will reach for such weapons could be heightened.</p>

<p>So, the debate underway in Washington now is what, exactly, might trigger Putin. Some believe he could lash out if dissent in Russia, already visible in street demonstrations, poses a real threat. Others believe that his trigger point might be a more direct entry into the war by NATO countries. They are already providing anti-tank and anti-aircraft weapons that have contributed to what the Pentagon now estimates is a Russian death toll of at least 7,000 troops.</p>

<p>One former intelligence official noted that it was Hillary Rodham Clinton’s support for anti-Putin street demonstrations in Russia that prompted him to order the hacking of the Democratic National Committee when Clinton was running for president in 2016. Putin is a believer, the official said, in retribution.</p>

<p>Putin would have good reason to think the Biden administration is looking forward to his exit, although U.S. officials choose their words carefully to avoid the implication that Washington’s policy is to speed the process. Blinken, speaking to reporters Thursday, said that “when all is said and done, an independent Ukraine will be there, and at some point Vladimir Putin will not.”</p>

<p>The last time an American president went head to head with a Russian or Soviet leader with so much at stake was 60 years ago, during the Cuban missile crisis, widely regarded as the closest the world came to Armageddon. And yet at that moment, in October 1962, President John F. Kennedy’s instinct was to avoid personalizing the conflict — and to help his Soviet counterpart, Nikita Khrushchev, find a way out of direct confrontation.</p>

<p>“I think it is the most natural comparison to this moment,” said Fredrik Logevall, a Harvard historian and Kennedy biographer.</p>

<p>“He kept warning the members of X-COMM that they had to see things from Khrushchev’s perspective,” he said, referring to the committee Kennedy established to guide through the 13 days of the crisis. “He said we had to give him something here to step away. And he was careful in his public comments not to personalize his criticisms of Khrushchev himself. It’s a direct contrast to what Biden did.”</p>

<p>Putin is not the first foreign adversary Biden has called a war criminal, as he himself recounted in “Promises to Keep,” a 2007 memoir. He recalled meeting Slobodan Milosevic, president of Serbia and then of Yugoslavia, who ultimately became the first sitting head of a government to be charged with war crimes.</p>

<p>“He could tell I had just about had it with his lies, and at one point he looked up from the maps and said, without any emotion, ‘What do you think of me?’” Biden wrote.</p>

<p>“‘I think you’re a damn war criminal and you should be tried as one,’” Biden wrote. “I was looking right in Milosevic’s eyes, and his expression didn’t change. There was not the slightest twitch in his face. It was like I’d just told him he was a wonderful guy.”</p>

<p>Blinken said the president was now willing to go further with Putin, and begin collecting evidence of war crimes. “So when I tell you that there will be accountability and consequences for any war crimes that have been committed,” Blinken said Thursday, “I hope you’ll take me at my word, but actions always speak louder than words.”</p>


When President Joe Biden on Wednesday declared to reporters, almost off the cuff, that Russian President Vladimir Putin was a “war criminal,” he was speaking from the heart, his aides said, reacting to the wrenching images of civilians — including children — being dragged, dead or disfigured, from ruins of buildings shelled by Russian forces.

When President Joe Biden on Wednesday declared to reporters, almost off the cuff, that Russian President Vladimir Putin was a “war criminal,” he was speaking from the heart, his aides said, reacting to the wrenching images of civilians — including children — being dragged, dead or disfigured, from ruins of buildings shelled by Russian forces. But he was also personalizing the conflict, in a way past presidents have avoided at moments of crisis with the United States’ leading nuclear-armed adversary. And his remark underscored how personal condemnation has become policy, as Biden and his top aides frame Putin as a pariah, an indiscriminate killer who should be standing trial at The Hague. Biden amplified his attacks Thursday, calling Putin “a murderous dictator, a pure thug who is waging an immoral war against the people of Ukraine.” Secretary of State Antony Blinken chimed in, saying: “Personally, I agree. Intentionally targeting civilians is a war crime.” But what began as a visceral reaction appears to reflect a strategic decision. Branding Putin as a war criminal supports the administration’s case as it simultaneously tries to keep the Western alliance unified and attempts to pressure China not to bail Putin out of his economic crisis and military mistakes. That effort will face a new test Friday, when Biden is scheduled to talk to Chinese President Xi Jinping for the first time since the invasion, and warn him against supplying weapons to Putin. And Biden’s comments came after three weeks in which the United States and its allies piled sanctions on Russia that the administration said were designed to force Putin to withdraw his forces from Ukraine. But diplomats and intelligence officials from several countries say those sanctions are seen by Putin as an effort to stoke Russian unrest, turning both wealthy oligarchs and ordinary Russians against his rule. The White House says that “regime change” in Russia is not on Washington’s strategic agenda. But in past cases when presidents have called national leaders war criminals — Iraq's Saddam Hussein or Syria's Bashar Assad — it has frequently been linked to an effort, covert or overt, to drive them from office. When promised anonymity, many American officials say that they cannot imagine that Ukraine could be safe from Russian military action while Putin, stewing in grievances and now angry at his own military’s performance, is still in office. Last week, CIA Director William Burns, a former U.S. ambassador to Moscow who knew Putin as he tightened his control over Russia, told the House Intelligence Committee that Putin’s moves have been “premeditated and savage.” He predicted that Putin was “likely to double down and try to grind down the Ukrainian military with no regard for civilian casualties.” “He has no sustainable political endgame in the face of what is going to continue to be fierce resistance from Ukrainians,” Burns said. Other U.S. intelligence officials have said that Putin views the conflict not only as a war to reclaim Ukraine but to push back on American power. They said he increasingly sees himself wrapped in a struggle with Biden, whom he views as the last of a generation of Washington Cold Warriors. Biden and Putin have not talked since Feb. 12, when the American president made one last attempt to warn the Russian leader that an attack would lead to crushing sanctions, more arms to the Ukrainians and a major buildup of troops and arms on NATO’s eastern front. That buildup was exactly the result Putin was trying to forestall. It is almost unimaginable that the two men will be dealing with each other directly anytime soon. Hours after Biden’s “war criminal” comments, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitri Peskov called the characterization “unacceptable and unforgivable rhetoric.” Putin has not said much about Biden, but he vowed this week to cleanse Russia of “scum and traitors” who he said were being organized by the West as a “fifth column” to destroy the country. The enmity between the two men has been barely disguised for years, since the day when Biden, as vice president, by his account told Putin that he had looked in his eyes and had seen no soul. “We understand one another,” Putin is said to have replied. But it comes at a moment when Washington’s biggest concern is that Putin will escalate the war — and reach for weapons of mass destruction. Just hours before Biden’s declaration, his national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, told Nikolai Patrushev, Putin’s main national security adviser, that “any possible Russian decision to use chemical or biological weapons in Ukraine” would result in an even harsher Western response. Several of Biden's aides have been concerned that if the Russian leader feels cornered or believes the United States is trying to foment opposition, the chances that he will reach for such weapons could be heightened. So, the debate underway in Washington now is what, exactly, might trigger Putin. Some believe he could lash out if dissent in Russia, already visible in street demonstrations, poses a real threat. Others believe that his trigger point might be a more direct entry into the war by NATO countries. They are already providing anti-tank and anti-aircraft weapons that have contributed to what the Pentagon now estimates is a Russian death toll of at least 7,000 troops. One former intelligence official noted that it was Hillary Rodham Clinton’s support for anti-Putin street demonstrations in Russia that prompted him to order the hacking of the Democratic National Committee when Clinton was running for president in 2016. Putin is a believer, the official said, in retribution. Putin would have good reason to think the Biden administration is looking forward to his exit, although U.S. officials choose their words carefully to avoid the implication that Washington’s policy is to speed the process. Blinken, speaking to reporters Thursday, said that “when all is said and done, an independent Ukraine will be there, and at some point Vladimir Putin will not.” The last time an American president went head to head with a Russian or Soviet leader with so much at stake was 60 years ago, during the Cuban missile crisis, widely regarded as the closest the world came to Armageddon. And yet at that moment, in October 1962, President John F. Kennedy’s instinct was to avoid personalizing the conflict — and to help his Soviet counterpart, Nikita Khrushchev, find a way out of direct confrontation. “I think it is the most natural comparison to this moment,” said Fredrik Logevall, a Harvard historian and Kennedy biographer. “He kept warning the members of X-COMM that they had to see things from Khrushchev’s perspective,” he said, referring to the committee Kennedy established to guide through the 13 days of the crisis. “He said we had to give him something here to step away. And he was careful in his public comments not to personalize his criticisms of Khrushchev himself. It’s a direct contrast to what Biden did.” Putin is not the first foreign adversary Biden has called a war criminal, as he himself recounted in “Promises to Keep,” a 2007 memoir. He recalled meeting Slobodan Milosevic, president of Serbia and then of Yugoslavia, who ultimately became the first sitting head of a government to be charged with war crimes. “He could tell I had just about had it with his lies, and at one point he looked up from the maps and said, without any emotion, ‘What do you think of me?’” Biden wrote. “‘I think you’re a damn war criminal and you should be tried as one,’” Biden wrote. “I was looking right in Milosevic’s eyes, and his expression didn’t change. There was not the slightest twitch in his face. It was like I’d just told him he was a wonderful guy.” Blinken said the president was now willing to go further with Putin, and begin collecting evidence of war crimes. “So when I tell you that there will be accountability and consequences for any war crimes that have been committed,” Blinken said Thursday, “I hope you’ll take me at my word, but actions always speak louder than words.”

By labeling Putin a 'war criminal,' Biden personalizes the conflict

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky compared the ongoing invasion by Russia to 9/11 and the Pearl Harbor attack, which forced the United States to get involved in World War II. Meanwhile, Kremlin said the war in Ukraine was "going to plan" amid talk of compromise at peace talks.</p>

<p>During an emotional and impassioned video address to the US Congress, Zelensky said, "In your great history, you have pages that would allow you to understand Ukrainians, understand us now when we need you right now."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Remember Pearl Harbor. The terrible morning of December 7, 1941, when your sky was black from the planes attacking you," Zelensky said, adding that the attacks on September 11, 2001 "turned your cities, independent territories into battlefields."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-under-attack-russia-attacks-mariupol-theatre-sheltering-hundreds-of-civilians-see-satellite-image-463012">Russia attacks Mariupol theatre sheltering 'hundreds' of civilians - see satellite image</a></strong></p>

<p>The Ukrainian President said that his country is seeing such horrors every day. "Our country experiences the same every day. Right now, every day, every night for three weeks now ... Russia has turned the Ukrainian sky into a source of death of thousands of people," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky pleaded with allies to impose a no-fly zone and also showed the extent of devastation in Ukraine. wrought. He received a standing ovation from US lawmakers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-cancels-license-of-china-owned-telecom-company-462991">US cancels license of China-owned telecom company</a></strong></p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (March 16) said he would discuss neutral status for Ukraine and that what he calls a "special military operation" to demilitarize the country was "going to plan".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyiv and allies say his actions are an unprovoked incursion, and more than three million Ukrainians have fled and hundreds have died.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: Is the peace deal possible?</strong></p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky compared the ongoing invasion by Russia to 9/11 and the Pearl Harbor attack, which forced the United States to get involved in World War II.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky compared the ongoing invasion by Russia to 9/11 and the Pearl Harbor attack, which forced the United States to get involved in World War II. Meanwhile, Kremlin said the war in Ukraine was "going to plan" amid talk of compromise at peace talks. During an emotional and impassioned video address to the US Congress, Zelensky said, "In your great history, you have pages that would allow you to understand Ukrainians, understand us now when we need you right now." "Remember Pearl Harbor. The terrible morning of December 7, 1941, when your sky was black from the planes attacking you," Zelensky said, adding that the attacks on September 11, 2001 "turned your cities, independent territories into battlefields." ALSO READ | Russia attacks Mariupol theatre sheltering 'hundreds' of civilians - see satellite image The Ukrainian President said that his country is seeing such horrors every day. "Our country experiences the same every day. Right now, every day, every night for three weeks now ... Russia has turned the Ukrainian sky into a source of death of thousands of people," he said. Zelensky pleaded with allies to impose a no-fly zone and also showed the extent of devastation in Ukraine. wrought. He received a standing ovation from US lawmakers. ALSO READ | US cancels license of China-owned telecom company Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (March 16) said he would discuss neutral status for Ukraine and that what he calls a "special military operation" to demilitarize the country was "going to plan". Kyiv and allies say his actions are an unprovoked incursion, and more than three million Ukrainians have fled and hundreds have died. WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: Is the peace deal possible? × (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky compares Russian invasion to 9/11 and Pearl Harbor attack; Putin says invasion on course

Its been three weeks since Russian invasion of Ukraine dominated the headlines. Russia believes that it was betrayed by the West, the promise made by NATO that it will not expand to the east. Is Ukraine paying for NATO's gambles?

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Is Ukraine paying for NATO's gambles?

As the Russian invasion into Ukraine enters the fourth week, there is no end to aggression in the Northeast region of Ukraine. The city of Kharkiv continues to face persistent bombardment by the Russian troops.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: 3 killed and 5 injured in Kharkiv during shelling

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