Volodymyr Zelensky, president of Ukraine, said Wednesday that at least 35,000 civilians had been evacuated from besieged cities.

According to a video address, the Ukrainian leader made late Wednesday, three humanitarian corridors had enabled residents of Sumy, Enerhodar, and the area around Kyiv to flee.

He said he hoped that the evacuations would continue on Thursday, noting that three more routes were set to open out of Mariupol, Volnovakha in the southeast, and Izium in eastern Ukraine.

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As a result of Moscow and Kyiv's agreement on Wednesday, more corridors were opened, offering a sliver of hope to civilians trapped in bombarded cities.

More than 5,000 people were evacuated from Sumy, a&nbsp;day earlier, a city of 250,000 near the Russian border that has been the scene of heavy fighting.&nbsp;

As per an Interfax Ukraine news agency report,&nbsp;around 48,000 Ukrainians have been evacuated through humanitarian corridors. The report&nbsp;cites a senior aide to President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Kyrylo Tymoshenko, deputy head of the president`s office, said 43,000 people had left the city of Sumy, 3,500 from the Kyiv region and 1,000 from Energodar.

However, the evacuation of Mariupol, which has been under Russian siege for days, has failed on several occasions, with both Kyiv and Moscow blaming each other.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Russia becomes the world's most sanctioned country

Phone signals are down, effectively cutting off the industrial city from the world. Hundreds of thousands of residents of Mariupol under bombardment have been sheltering without water or power for more than a week.

Russia struck a children's hospital in the city on Wednesday, provoking renewed global outrage two weeks after Moscow invaded its former Soviet neighbour.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-bombed-childrens-hospital-in-mariupol-alleges-ukraine-460698" hreflang="en">Russia bombed children's hospital in Mariupol, alleges Ukraine</a>

In the siege, which has lasted more than a week, more than 1,200 civilians have been killed, according to Mariupol's mayor.

According to the UN refugee agency UNHCR, the number of refugees resulting from this conflict lies somewhere between 2.1 million and 2.2 million.&nbsp;

Volodymyr Zelensky, president of Ukraine, said Wednesday that at least 35,000 civilians had been evacuated from besieged cities. According to a video address, the Ukrainian leader made late Wednesday, three humanitarian corridors had enabled residents of Sumy, Enerhodar, and the area around Kyiv to flee.

Volodymyr Zelensky, president of Ukraine, said Wednesday that at least 35,000 civilians had been evacuated from besieged cities. According to a video address, the Ukrainian leader made late Wednesday, three humanitarian corridors had enabled residents of Sumy, Enerhodar, and the area around Kyiv to flee. He said he hoped that the evacuations would continue on Thursday, noting that three more routes were set to open out of Mariupol, Volnovakha in the southeast, and Izium in eastern Ukraine. Also read | Caribbean countries junk program allowing Russians to buy citizenship As a result of Moscow and Kyiv's agreement on Wednesday, more corridors were opened, offering a sliver of hope to civilians trapped in bombarded cities. More than 5,000 people were evacuated from Sumy, a day earlier, a city of 250,000 near the Russian border that has been the scene of heavy fighting. As per an Interfax Ukraine news agency report, around 48,000 Ukrainians have been evacuated through humanitarian corridors. The report cites a senior aide to President Volodymyr Zelensky. Kyrylo Tymoshenko, deputy head of the president`s office, said 43,000 people had left the city of Sumy, 3,500 from the Kyiv region and 1,000 from Energodar. However, the evacuation of Mariupol, which has been under Russian siege for days, has failed on several occasions, with both Kyiv and Moscow blaming each other. Watch | Gravitas: Russia becomes the world's most sanctioned country Phone signals are down, effectively cutting off the industrial city from the world. Hundreds of thousands of residents of Mariupol under bombardment have been sheltering without water or power for more than a week. Russia struck a children's hospital in the city on Wednesday, provoking renewed global outrage two weeks after Moscow invaded its former Soviet neighbour. Also read | Russia bombed children's hospital in Mariupol, alleges Ukraine In the siege, which has lasted more than a week, more than 1,200 civilians have been killed, according to Mariupol's mayor. According to the UN refugee agency UNHCR, the number of refugees resulting from this conflict lies somewhere between 2.1 million and 2.2 million.

From Ukraine's besieged cities, 35,000 escaped via humanitarian corridors: Zelensky

Russia has become the world's most sanctioned country, with over 5000 sanctions slapped against it. Brands like McDonald's, Starbucks, Coca-Cola, Zara, H&M, Netflix have all suspended operations in Russia. Spotify and Amazon too have hit pause. Palki Sharma brings you the details.

Gravitas: Russia becomes the world's most sanctioned country

Has Joe Biden's oil embargo on Russia fractured western unity? EU-nations say they can't ban Russian oil imports. They say they're too 'dependent' on Moscow for energy supplies. Is Biden's decision then a symbolic move? Here's what Palki Sharma has to say.

Gravitas: Biden's oil ban 'fractures' West's unity

President Volodymyr Zelensky has said Ukraine is "no longer interested in a NATO membership." In response, Russia said it doesn't want to overthrow the Ukraine government. Is a truce in sight? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Zelensky willing to give up NATO membership bid?

Did Volodymyr Zelensky bet on direct intervention by NATO? Did he over-estimate Ukraine's strategic importance to the West? Palki Sharma explains Zelensky's 3 big miscalculations that gave Russia the upper hand.

Gravitas: Zelensky's three big miscalculations

It started with one bid, then two, then twenty: a small Stockholm company has recently been swamped with inquiries for the rights to air the comedy series featuring Ukraine's former actor-turned-war hero Volodymyr Zelensky.

"It's been very, very busy. All around the world, people have asked for the rights because they want to broadcast it," says Eccho Rights co-founder Nicola Soderlund.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-ukraines-besieged-cities-35000-escaped-via-humanitarian-corridors-zelensky-460729" hreflang="en">From Ukraine's besieged cities, 35,000 escaped via humanitarian corridors: Zelensky</a>

Since the beginning of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, broadcasters including Channel 4 in the UK, ANT1 in Greece, and PRO TV in Romania, have rushed to acquire the rights to "Servant of the People", which first aired in Ukraine in 2015.

"I think last week we made maybe 15 deals and we are in negotiations with another 20 countries," says Soderlund, a poster advertising the series hanging above his desk.&nbsp;

"The latest we heard of is Latin America, we're discussing with the US, Netflix, we're discussing with many."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-from-ex-comedian-to-war-president-456070">Volodymyr Zelensky: From ex-comedian to ‘war president’</a>

There are currently three or four broadcasters in Italy vying for the rights, while in Greece, the show airs nightly during primetime.

"In a way, it's an act of solidarity with the Ukrainians, and at the same time, of curiosity -- you want to see who he is," Soderlund says of Zelensky.

President Zelensky has risen to prominence on the international stage since the start of the invasion, impressing the world with his fearless determination against the Russian invasion.

In retrospect, it was unimaginable that this "very funny comedian, very popular and loved by audiences" would eventually become Vladimir Putin's main target and "this world leader who embodies and speaks for the whole nation".

"We needed a hero like him, after Trump and all that," Eccho Rights managing director Fredrik af Malmborg interjects.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Zelensky's three big miscalculations

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-zelenskys-three-big-miscalculations-460693/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

With "Servant of the People", life imitated art.&nbsp;The series, which lasted three seasons, featured Zelensky as a high school teacher who was elected president after a viral video of him ranting about corruption in Ukraine went viral.

Zelensky became president in real life after the success of the show.

While Eccho has not had direct contact with Zelensky, it has been in touch with some of his representatives.

The details of the rights contracts are confidential, but the rights will cost "around a million euros". &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

It started with one bid, then two, then twenty: a small Stockholm company has recently been swamped with inquiries for the rights to air the comedy series featuring Ukraine's former actor-turned-war hero Volodymyr Zelensky.

It started with one bid, then two, then twenty: a small Stockholm company has recently been swamped with inquiries for the rights to air the comedy series featuring Ukraine's former actor-turned-war hero Volodymyr Zelensky. "It's been very, very busy. All around the world, people have asked for the rights because they want to broadcast it," says Eccho Rights co-founder Nicola Soderlund. Also read | From Ukraine's besieged cities, 35,000 escaped via humanitarian corridors: Zelensky Since the beginning of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, broadcasters including Channel 4 in the UK, ANT1 in Greece, and PRO TV in Romania, have rushed to acquire the rights to "Servant of the People", which first aired in Ukraine in 2015. "I think last week we made maybe 15 deals and we are in negotiations with another 20 countries," says Soderlund, a poster advertising the series hanging above his desk. "The latest we heard of is Latin America, we're discussing with the US, Netflix, we're discussing with many." Also read | Volodymyr Zelensky: From ex-comedian to ‘war president’ There are currently three or four broadcasters in Italy vying for the rights, while in Greece, the show airs nightly during primetime. "In a way, it's an act of solidarity with the Ukrainians, and at the same time, of curiosity -- you want to see who he is," Soderlund says of Zelensky. President Zelensky has risen to prominence on the international stage since the start of the invasion, impressing the world with his fearless determination against the Russian invasion. In retrospect, it was unimaginable that this "very funny comedian, very popular and loved by audiences" would eventually become Vladimir Putin's main target and "this world leader who embodies and speaks for the whole nation". "We needed a hero like him, after Trump and all that," Eccho Rights managing director Fredrik af Malmborg interjects. Watch | Gravitas: Zelensky's three big miscalculations With "Servant of the People", life imitated art. The series, which lasted three seasons, featured Zelensky as a high school teacher who was elected president after a viral video of him ranting about corruption in Ukraine went viral. Zelensky became president in real life after the success of the show. While Eccho has not had direct contact with Zelensky, it has been in touch with some of his representatives. The details of the rights contracts are confidential, but the rights will cost "around a million euros". (With inputs from agencies)

Life imitates art: Broadcasters clamour to air Ukrainian comedian-turned-war-hero President's TV show

President Joe Biden banned Russian oil and other energy imports to the United States, piling pressure on Vladimir Putin to halt the assault on Ukraine, but an effort to evacuate civilians from the besieged port city of Mariupol failed. 
 
Ukraine's government accused Russia of shelling a humanitarian corridor it had promised in Mariupol. 
 
SANCTIONS 
 
* Biden acknowledged the ban on Russian energy imports, which has bipartisan support, would drive up U.S. energy prices. 
 
* Britain said it aimed to phase out imports of Russian oil by the end of 2022. The EU plans to cut dependency on Russian gas this year by two-thirds. 
 
FIGHTING 
 
* Ukrainian troops repulsed efforts by Russian forces to enter the eastern city of Kharkiv, regional governor Oleh Synehubov said. 
 
* Russian forces have repeatedly tried to seize the southern regional capital of Mykolayiv in attacks that have been repulsed by Ukrainian troops, a Ukrainian presidential adviser said 
 
CORRIDORS 
 
* Russian forces will stop firing from 10 a.m. Moscow time (0700 GMT) on Wednesday to provide humanitarian corridors for people to leave Kyiv and four other cities, Tass news agency cited a senior Russian official as saying. 
 
DEATH TOLL 
 
* The United Nations human rights office said it had verified 1,335 civilian casualties so far in Ukraine, including 474 killed and 861 injured, but the true toll was likely to be higher. 
 
* Ukraine says its forces have killed more than 11,000 Russian troops. Russia has confirmed about 500 losses. Neither side has disclosed Ukrainian casualties. 
 
NATO AIRCRAFT 
 
The United States rejected a surprise offer by NATO ally Poland on Tuesday to transfer its Russian-made MiG-29 fighter jets to a U.S. base in Germany as a way to replenish Ukraine`s air force in its defence against invading Russian forces. 
 
The United States has sought to speed weapons deliveries to Ukraine. But the prospect of flying combat aircraft from NATO territory into the war zone "raises serious concerns for the entire NATO alliance," the Pentagon said. 
 
ECONOMIC IMPACT 
 
* McDonald`s Corp, Starbucks and L`Oreal are temporarily closing all outlets in Russia. Coca-Cola and Pepsi suspended soda sales in the country. 
 
* Unilever became the first major European food company to stop imports and exports out of Russia. 
 
* The London Metal Exchange halted trade in nickel after prices of the metal, a key component in electric vehicle batteries, doubled to more than $100,000 a tonne. 
 
QUOTES 
 
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy told Britain`s House of Commons via videolink: "The question for us now is to be or not to be. I can give you a definitive answer: it`s definitely to be." 
 
"Russia may continue to grind out its advance at a horrible price, but this much is already clear: Ukraine will never be a victory for Putin," Biden told reporters. "Putin may be able to take a city, but he`ll never be able to hold the country."

President Joe Biden banned Russian oil and other energy imports to the United States, piling pressure on Vladimir Putin to halt the assault on Ukraine, but an effort to evacuate civilians from the besieged port city of Mariupol failed.

President Joe Biden banned Russian oil and other energy imports to the United States, piling pressure on Vladimir Putin to halt the assault on Ukraine, but an effort to evacuate civilians from the besieged port city of Mariupol failed. Ukraine's government accused Russia of shelling a humanitarian corridor it had promised in Mariupol. SANCTIONS * Biden acknowledged the ban on Russian energy imports, which has bipartisan support, would drive up U.S. energy prices. * Britain said it aimed to phase out imports of Russian oil by the end of 2022. The EU plans to cut dependency on Russian gas this year by two-thirds. FIGHTING * Ukrainian troops repulsed efforts by Russian forces to enter the eastern city of Kharkiv, regional governor Oleh Synehubov said. * Russian forces have repeatedly tried to seize the southern regional capital of Mykolayiv in attacks that have been repulsed by Ukrainian troops, a Ukrainian presidential adviser said CORRIDORS * Russian forces will stop firing from 10 a.m. Moscow time (0700 GMT) on Wednesday to provide humanitarian corridors for people to leave Kyiv and four other cities, Tass news agency cited a senior Russian official as saying. DEATH TOLL * The United Nations human rights office said it had verified 1,335 civilian casualties so far in Ukraine, including 474 killed and 861 injured, but the true toll was likely to be higher. * Ukraine says its forces have killed more than 11,000 Russian troops. Russia has confirmed about 500 losses. Neither side has disclosed Ukrainian casualties. NATO AIRCRAFT The United States rejected a surprise offer by NATO ally Poland on Tuesday to transfer its Russian-made MiG-29 fighter jets to a U.S. base in Germany as a way to replenish Ukraine`s air force in its defence against invading Russian forces. The United States has sought to speed weapons deliveries to Ukraine. But the prospect of flying combat aircraft from NATO territory into the war zone "raises serious concerns for the entire NATO alliance," the Pentagon said. ECONOMIC IMPACT * McDonald`s Corp, Starbucks and L`Oreal are temporarily closing all outlets in Russia. Coca-Cola and Pepsi suspended soda sales in the country. * Unilever became the first major European food company to stop imports and exports out of Russia. * The London Metal Exchange halted trade in nickel after prices of the metal, a key component in electric vehicle batteries, doubled to more than $100,000 a tonne. QUOTES Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy told Britain`s House of Commons via videolink: "The question for us now is to be or not to be. I can give you a definitive answer: it`s definitely to be." "Russia may continue to grind out its advance at a horrible price, but this much is already clear: Ukraine will never be a victory for Putin," Biden told reporters. "Putin may be able to take a city, but he`ll never be able to hold the country."

Russian invasion of Ukraine: What you need to know right now

Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Ukraine will no longer be seeking NATO membership, a delicate issue cited by Russia as a reason for invading its pro-Western neighbor.

Zelensky also said he is open to "compromise" over the status of two breakaway pro-Russian territories that Putin recognized as independent just before the invasion, on February 24.

"I have cooled down regarding this question a long time ago after we understood that ... NATO is not prepared to accept Ukraine," Zelensky said in an interview aired Monday night on ABC News.

"The alliance is afraid of controversial things, and confrontation with Russia," the president added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-not-give-up-will-fight-till-the-end-says-ukraine-president-zelensky-tells-uk-parliament-460376" hreflang="en">We will not give up, will fight till the end, Ukraine President Zelensky tells UK Parliament</a>

Regarding NATO membership, Zelensky said that he did not want to be president of a "country which is begging something on its knees."&nbsp;

Russia is opposed to neighbouring Ukraine joining NATO, the transatlantic alliance formed at the start of the Cold War to defend Europe from the Soviet Union.&nbsp;

The Kremlin has been infuriated by the alliance's expansion to former Soviet bloc countries in recent years.

NATO enlargement, as well as the military posture of these new Western allies on their doorstep, is viewed by Russia as a threat.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-bans-us-import-of-russian-oil-global-economy-to-face-heat-460356" hreflang="en">Joe Biden bans US import of Russian oil, global economy to face heat?</a>

Putin recognized Donetsk and Lugansk in eastern Ukraine, which have been at war with Kyiv since 2014, as independent "republics" shortly before he shocked the world by launching Ukraine's invasion.&nbsp;

Now, Putin wants Ukraine to recognize them as sovereign and independent, too.

When asked about Russian demands, Zelensky said he was open to dialogue.

"I'm talking about security guarantees," he said.

Watch |&nbsp;Amid Russian offensive, Ukraine backs away from NATO bid?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/amid-russian-offensive-ukraine-backs-away-from-nato-bid-460396/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He said these two regions "have not been recognized by anyone but Russia, these pseudo republics. But we can discuss and find the compromise on how these territories will live on."

"What is important to me is how the people in those territories are going to live who want to be part of Ukraine, who in Ukraine will say that they want to have them in," Zelensky said.

"So the question is more difficult than simply acknowledging them," the president said.

"This is another ultimatum and we are not prepared for ultimatums. What needs to be done is for President Putin to start talking, start the dialogue instead of living in the informational bubble without oxygen."

(With inputs from agencies)

Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Ukraine will no longer be seeking NATO membership, a delicate issue cited by Russia as a reason for invading its pro-Western neighbor.

Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Ukraine will no longer be seeking NATO membership, a delicate issue cited by Russia as a reason for invading its pro-Western neighbor. Zelensky also said he is open to "compromise" over the status of two breakaway pro-Russian territories that Putin recognized as independent just before the invasion, on February 24. "I have cooled down regarding this question a long time ago after we understood that ... NATO is not prepared to accept Ukraine," Zelensky said in an interview aired Monday night on ABC News. "The alliance is afraid of controversial things, and confrontation with Russia," the president added. Also read | We will not give up, will fight till the end, Ukraine President Zelensky tells UK Parliament Regarding NATO membership, Zelensky said that he did not want to be president of a "country which is begging something on its knees." Russia is opposed to neighbouring Ukraine joining NATO, the transatlantic alliance formed at the start of the Cold War to defend Europe from the Soviet Union. The Kremlin has been infuriated by the alliance's expansion to former Soviet bloc countries in recent years. NATO enlargement, as well as the military posture of these new Western allies on their doorstep, is viewed by Russia as a threat. Also read | Joe Biden bans US import of Russian oil, global economy to face heat? Putin recognized Donetsk and Lugansk in eastern Ukraine, which have been at war with Kyiv since 2014, as independent "republics" shortly before he shocked the world by launching Ukraine's invasion. Now, Putin wants Ukraine to recognize them as sovereign and independent, too. When asked about Russian demands, Zelensky said he was open to dialogue. "I'm talking about security guarantees," he said. Watch | Amid Russian offensive, Ukraine backs away from NATO bid? He said these two regions "have not been recognized by anyone but Russia, these pseudo republics. But we can discuss and find the compromise on how these territories will live on." "What is important to me is how the people in those territories are going to live who want to be part of Ukraine, who in Ukraine will say that they want to have them in," Zelensky said. "So the question is more difficult than simply acknowledging them," the president said. "This is another ultimatum and we are not prepared for ultimatums. What needs to be done is for President Putin to start talking, start the dialogue instead of living in the informational bubble without oxygen." (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky gives up on joining NATO, says he does not want to lead a nation 'begging something on its knees'

Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Ukraine will no longer be seeking NATO membership, a delicate issue cited by Russia as a reason for invading its pro-Western neighbour. Zelensky also said he is open to "compromise" over the status of two breakaway pro-Russian territories that Putin recognized as independent just before the invasion.

Ready to discuss status of breakaway regions, says Ukrainian President Zelensky

The US has banned Russian oil exports. Moscow has threatened to cut gas supplies - if the oil ban goes ahead. Will Europe continue to bankroll Russia's Ukraine invasion? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Will Europe still bankroll Russia's Ukraine invasion?

Where is Russian President Vladimir Putin's family? A report has claimed that Putin's family is inside a "secret bunker" - one that can survive a nuclear strike. How true are these claims? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Where is Vladimir Putin's family?

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has a new symbol. The letter 'Z'. It's present on Russian tanks, billboards, cars, even on uniforms of Russian athletes. What does this symbol stand for? Is it a military marking or a warning? Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: The mystery around Russia's 'Z' Symbol

Four world leaders have positioned themselves as mediators in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Who are they? Is there any hope for talks amid raining missiles? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Meet the mediators of the Russia-Ukraine war

Russia has claimed that the US was developing bio-weapons near the Russian border in Ukraine. Is there any truth to these accusations? Palki Sharma examines.

Gravitas: Russia claims US running bio-labs in Ukraine

Humanitarian corridors have been opened from 5 Ukrainian cities to help people escape the war zone. Last time, the safe corridors had come under heavy shelling. Will this time be different? Listen in to Palki Sharma

Gravitas: Humanitarian corridors open from 5 Ukrainian cities

A Pakistani student stranded in the war-hit country was rescued by the Indian authorities amid escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine. The girl expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian Embassy in Kyiv.

Pakistani student thanks Indian PM Modi for rescuing her from Ukraine

700 Indian students in Sumy have now been moved out of the city through the humanitarian corridor. They were first taken in Poltava which is around 175 km away from Sumy. Now they are traveling in Western Ukraine on trains that have been arranged with the help of Ukrainian authorities. The students will then cross a border to Poland in the coming days and from there they will then be brought back to India on evacuation flights.

Russian-Ukraine conflict: 700 Indian students evacuated from Sumy

In a statement Tuesday, the UN watchdog said that the Chernobyl nuclear power plant is no longer sending data to them. The agency also expressed concern for staff operating under Russian guard at the Ukrainian facility.

Rafael Grossi, the chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), "indicated that remote data transmission from safeguards monitoring systems installed at the Chornobyl NPP had been lost", the agency said in its statement.

"The Agency is looking into the status of safeguards monitoring systems in other locations in Ukraine and will provide further information soon," it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-gives-up-on-joining-nato-says-he-does-not-want-to-lead-a-nation-begging-something-on-its-knees-460394" hreflang="en">Zelensky gives up on joining NATO, says he does not want to lead a nation “begging something on its knees"</a>

By "safeguards," the IAEA refers to the technical measures it uses to regulate nuclear material and activities with the goal of suppressing the spread of nuclear weapons through the early detection of their misuse.

On February 24, Russia invaded Ukraine and seized Chernobyl, the site of a 1986 disaster that killed hundreds of people and spread radioactive contamination west across Europe.

Staff conditions were "worsening" at the site, the IAEA said, citing Ukraine's nuclear regulator.&nbsp;Over 200 technical staff and guards are trapped on the site, working 13 days straight since the Russians took over.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-not-give-up-will-fight-till-the-end-says-ukraine-president-zelensky-tells-uk-parliament-460376" hreflang="en">We will not give up, will fight till the end, Ukraine President Zelensky tells UK Parliament</a>

The defunct plant lies inside an exclusion zone that also contains decommissioned reactors and a radioactive waste facility.&nbsp;

A staff of more than 2,000 is still employed at the plant as it must be constantly managed to prevent another nuclear accident.

Russian authorities were urged to allow workers to rotate because regular shifts and rest were crucial to the site's safety.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Meet the mediators of the Russia-Ukraine war

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-meet-the-mediators-of-the-russia-ukraine-war-460387/embed" width="560"></iframe>

"I'm deeply concerned about the difficult and stressful situation facing staff at the Chornobyl nuclear power plant and the potential risks this entails for nuclear safety," said Grossi.

"I call on the forces in effective control of the site to urgently facilitate the safe rotation of personnel there."

Since the Ukrainian regulator could only reach the plant via email, Grossi reiterated his offer to travel to the plant or elsewhere to secure from all parties "the commitment to safety and security" of Ukraine's power plants.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a statement Tuesday, the UN watchdog said that the Chernobyl nuclear power plant is no longer sending data to them. The agency also expressed concern for staff operating under Russian guard at the Ukrainian facility.

In a statement Tuesday, the UN watchdog said that the Chernobyl nuclear power plant is no longer sending data to them. The agency also expressed concern for staff operating under Russian guard at the Ukrainian facility. Rafael Grossi, the chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), "indicated that remote data transmission from safeguards monitoring systems installed at the Chornobyl NPP had been lost", the agency said in its statement. "The Agency is looking into the status of safeguards monitoring systems in other locations in Ukraine and will provide further information soon," it said. Also read | Zelensky gives up on joining NATO, says he does not want to lead a nation “begging something on its knees" By "safeguards," the IAEA refers to the technical measures it uses to regulate nuclear material and activities with the goal of suppressing the spread of nuclear weapons through the early detection of their misuse. On February 24, Russia invaded Ukraine and seized Chernobyl, the site of a 1986 disaster that killed hundreds of people and spread radioactive contamination west across Europe. Staff conditions were "worsening" at the site, the IAEA said, citing Ukraine's nuclear regulator. Over 200 technical staff and guards are trapped on the site, working 13 days straight since the Russians took over. Also read | We will not give up, will fight till the end, Ukraine President Zelensky tells UK Parliament The defunct plant lies inside an exclusion zone that also contains decommissioned reactors and a radioactive waste facility. A staff of more than 2,000 is still employed at the plant as it must be constantly managed to prevent another nuclear accident. Russian authorities were urged to allow workers to rotate because regular shifts and rest were crucial to the site's safety. Watch | Gravitas: Meet the mediators of the Russia-Ukraine war "I'm deeply concerned about the difficult and stressful situation facing staff at the Chornobyl nuclear power plant and the potential risks this entails for nuclear safety," said Grossi. "I call on the forces in effective control of the site to urgently facilitate the safe rotation of personnel there." Since the Ukrainian regulator could only reach the plant via email, Grossi reiterated his offer to travel to the plant or elsewhere to secure from all parties "the commitment to safety and security" of Ukraine's power plants. (With inputs from agencies)

UN nuclear watchdog no longer receiving data from Chernobyl, expresses worry about the 130 trapped workers

An 11-year-old Ukrainian boy has been hailed as a hero after fleeing his war-torn country by himself with only a plastic bag, a passport and a telephone number written on his hand. WION tells you more in this report.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: 11-year-old Hassan crossed Ukraine alone to reach Slovakia

Ukraine's youngest war victim Dima Kasyanov is in a pediatric neurosurgery center after a shell exploded in his family's home in Ukraine and left shrapnel in his skull. The eight-year-old is one of several children brought into the hospital in Kharkiv to be treated for shrapnel.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict : Meet the Ukraine's youngest war victim Dima Kasyanov

The officials from the United States intelligence agency has warned that Russia may intensify the assault on Ukraine. They also added that President Vladimir Putin is frustrated about how his Ukraine invasion has not gone to plan, and lobbing provocative nuclear threats at the West.

Russia may intensify assault in Ukraine despite setback, warns US intel

Chinese president Xi Jinping has called for 'maximum restraint' in Ukraine and said China is "pained to see the flames of war reignited in Europe," in his strongest statement to date on the conflict. China, which has refused to condemn Russia's actions in Ukraine or to call them an invasion, has repeatedly expressed its opposition to what it describes as illegal sanctions on Russia.

Xi Jinping delivers his strongest statement on Russia-Ukraine conflict

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that he does not want to be the leader of a country which is begging for something on its knees. Zelensky also said that he is no longer pressing for membership of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), membership for his country.

"Don't want to beg for NATO membership", says Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky

Russia and Ukraine on Wednesday agreed a day-long ceasefire around a series of evacuation corridors to allow civilians to escape the fighting. WION's Anas Mallick brings you more insights.

Russia-Ukraine agree to day long evacuation corridors

Amid multiple economic sanctions and closures of famous brands in&nbsp;Russia, President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (March 8) has been branded an 'angry and isolated' leader by the United States intelligence officials, who also warned that Putin may intensify the assault on Ukraine.&nbsp;

The officials from the intelligence agency stated that Putin is craving global clout, frustrated about how his Ukraine invasion has not gone to plan, and lobbing provocative nuclear threats at the West.&nbsp;

CIA Director William Burns told US lawmakers that the long-standing president in Moscow has been "stewing in a combustible combination of grievance and ambition for many years".&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-tank-man-to-snake-island-defenders-brave-stories-of-resistance-by-ukrainians-against-vladimir-putin-460353">What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks</a>

He called the invasion of Ukraine a matter of "deep personal conviction" for Putin, his latest defiant clash with Europe and the United States.&nbsp;

Burns said at a congressional hearing on global threats, "I think Putin is angry and frustrated right now. He's likely to double down and try to grind down the Ukrainian military with no regard for civilian casualties."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in a fair warning, there are possibilities that Putin may intensify the assault on Ukraine despite military setbacks and economic hardships.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-tank-man-to-snake-island-defenders-brave-stories-of-resistance-by-ukrainians-against-vladimir-putin-460353">From 'tank man' to snake island defenders: Brave stories of resistance by Ukrainians against Vladimir Putin</a>

Although there's no official statement over the total casualties, but the officials estimated that 2,000 to 4,000 Russian troops had died and said Russia was feeling the effects of sanctions.&nbsp;

The situation could become much worse for Ukrainians, with food and water supplies in Kyiv possibly running out within two weeks.&nbsp;

Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines told the annual House of Representatives Intelligence Committee hearing on worldwide threats that "our analysts assess that Putin is unlikely to be deterred by such setbacks and instead may escalate" in the coming days, where she testified with other intelligence agency directors.

WATCH |&nbsp;Amid Russian offensive, Ukraine backs away from NATO bid?

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(With inputs from agencies)

Amid multiple economic sanctions and closures of famous brands in Russia, President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (March 8) has been branded an 'angry and isolated' leader by the United States intelligence officials, who also warned that Putin may intensify the assault on Ukraine.

Amid multiple economic sanctions and closures of famous brands in Russia, President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (March 8) has been branded an 'angry and isolated' leader by the United States intelligence officials, who also warned that Putin may intensify the assault on Ukraine. The officials from the intelligence agency stated that Putin is craving global clout, frustrated about how his Ukraine invasion has not gone to plan, and lobbing provocative nuclear threats at the West. CIA Director William Burns told US lawmakers that the long-standing president in Moscow has been "stewing in a combustible combination of grievance and ambition for many years". IN PICS | What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks He called the invasion of Ukraine a matter of "deep personal conviction" for Putin, his latest defiant clash with Europe and the United States. Burns said at a congressional hearing on global threats, "I think Putin is angry and frustrated right now. He's likely to double down and try to grind down the Ukrainian military with no regard for civilian casualties." Meanwhile, in a fair warning, there are possibilities that Putin may intensify the assault on Ukraine despite military setbacks and economic hardships. IN PICS | From 'tank man' to snake island defenders: Brave stories of resistance by Ukrainians against Vladimir Putin Although there's no official statement over the total casualties, but the officials estimated that 2,000 to 4,000 Russian troops had died and said Russia was feeling the effects of sanctions. The situation could become much worse for Ukrainians, with food and water supplies in Kyiv possibly running out within two weeks. Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines told the annual House of Representatives Intelligence Committee hearing on worldwide threats that "our analysts assess that Putin is unlikely to be deterred by such setbacks and instead may escalate" in the coming days, where she testified with other intelligence agency directors. WATCH | Amid Russian offensive, Ukraine backs away from NATO bid? × (With inputs from agencies)

US intel says Russia may escalate invasion despite Ukraine setbacks, brands Vladimir Putin 'angry, frustrated'

For months, Ukraine worried and agonized about a potential invasion. But in just over one week of hellish war, Ukrainians revealed themselves to be some of the bravest people in the world. Against Russia’s full-scale assault, civilians across the country have been courageously, even terrifyingly, defiant.

There’s the man who stood in front of a Russian tank, pushing against it to stop it from advancing. And the man who picked up an unexploded mine from the road with his bare hands and carried it deep into a forest, with a cigarette in his mouth.

There’s the woman who walked up to a Russian soldier and told him to put sunflower seeds in his pockets. That way when he dies on Ukrainian land, she explained, flowers will grow. And then there’s the already legendary story of the 13 Snake Island defenders who, when asked to capitulate, refused in gloriously colorful terms. (The phrase they used has become something of a rallying cry for proud Ukrainians, including government officials.)

Yet these heroic displays barely scratch the surface of Ukrainian resistance. From sharing food to taking up arms, Ukrainians across the country are united in repelling the invaders — and protecting our homeland. President Vladimir Putin was apparently confident that Russia would defeat Ukraine in two or three days. But he picked the wrong nation to mess with.

The Ukrainian Army, destroying enemy tanks and intercepting missiles, has been remarkable. And behind it stand legions of Ukrainians who have made camouflage netting, dispatched humanitarian aid and raised funds. The sums, for a country under attack, are astounding: In one day, Ukraine’s most-trusted military aid nonprofit, Come Back Alive, raised over $680,000 — a donation larger than the amount raised in all of 2021. The National Bank of Ukraine, which opened a special account to raise funds for Ukraine’s military, received nearly $10 million in just the first day of the war.

Some stories, like that of 8-year-old Alisa Zhuk from Kyiv, are especially touching. The little girl is selling her drawings for $20 and up, donating all proceeds to the army — to make sure that Ukrainian soldiers have enough food and clothes, she said. “Our children,” her mother told me, “will grow up proud of Ukraine.”

Many citizens have gone a step further in their support and joined territorial defense units. As of Feb. 26, two days into Russia’s invasion, 37,000 Ukrainians were signed up. Now journalists, artists, musicians, TV hosts, comedians and thousands of others are patrolling the streets. Using conventional arms and Molotov cocktails — which have become something of a revered national weapon — they have apprehended saboteurs, shot down drones and stopped enemy tanks. In the defense of our country, they have been indispensable.

Ivan and Danylo Stolyarevskyi, brothers from Kyiv, wanted to join them. But because resources could not keep pace with the overwhelming number of volunteers, they were turned down. So the brothers joined Ukraine’s resistance online instead.

Ivan, 27, now spends his time writing Google reviews for Russian cafes and restaurants. But they are no ordinary reviews. “Russian troops have been bombing Kyiv and its peaceful residents for 4 days,” one reads. “Go out in the streets — stop the deaths of children.” By flooding places where Russians are congregating online, Ivan and the hundreds of others writing similar messages hope to spread the truth of the Kremlin’s atrocities.

Danylo, 30, plays a different role. He’s part of the “I.T. Army of Ukraine,” a group chat with over 285,000 participants on the messaging app Telegram. There, web developers from all over the country coordinate cyberattacks on Russian and Belarusian websites. The method is quite simple. Regular websites in Russia and Belarus aren’t equipped to handle large numbers of visitors, so to destabilize them, a group of people reload the web page many times. Dozens of strategically important websites have been struck down, including that of the National Bank of Belarus. “It is a drop in the ocean, but you feel your small contribution to the common cause,” Danylo told me.

That’s something every Ukrainian is doing, in ways big and small. Even under bombardment, people have lined up to donate blood, providing vital assistance to the country’s hospitals. Volunteers take food and supplies to underground shelters where hundreds and sometimes thousands of people are gathered. People look out for one another and acts of kindness are the norm. In Kharkiv, which has been under heavy bombardment for days, an English-speaking Ukrainian girl walked dozens of international students through Metro tunnels, helping them get on a train to evacuate.

That support extends to those who leave as well as those who stay. For the roughly two million people who have either fled the country or are traveling within it, volunteers help to arrange accommodation and, where possible, transport. Ukrainians abroad, mainly in countries along the border, have been collecting truckfuls of humanitarian aid to support arriving refugees. No matter where they are, Ukrainians have the support of their compatriots.

That doesn’t lessen the tragedy of the situation. After over a week of war, the Kremlin’s aim appears to be to encircle and capture major cities, heedless of the death and destruction Russian forces leave in their wake. Already, the toll is heavy: In the first week of conflict, according to the United Nations, 227 civilians were killed and 525 were wounded. The Russian Army, loaded up with artillery, is going to continue its brutal bombardment of the country. For Ukrainians, in flight, fight or shelter, there will be no respite.

But we are defiant. With every act of bravery and courage, Ukrainians show that we are ready to pay the highest price for democracy — ours and the world over. In this battle, we will not surrender and we will not capitulate. Because our freedom is immutable.

For months, Ukraine worried and agonized about a potential invasion. But in just over one week of hellish war, Ukrainians revealed themselves to be some of the bravest people in the world.

For months, Ukraine worried and agonized about a potential invasion. But in just over one week of hellish war, Ukrainians revealed themselves to be some of the bravest people in the world. Against Russia’s full-scale assault, civilians across the country have been courageously, even terrifyingly, defiant. There’s the man who stood in front of a Russian tank, pushing against it to stop it from advancing. And the man who picked up an unexploded mine from the road with his bare hands and carried it deep into a forest, with a cigarette in his mouth. There’s the woman who walked up to a Russian soldier and told him to put sunflower seeds in his pockets. That way when he dies on Ukrainian land, she explained, flowers will grow. And then there’s the already legendary story of the 13 Snake Island defenders who, when asked to capitulate, refused in gloriously colorful terms. (The phrase they used has become something of a rallying cry for proud Ukrainians, including government officials.) Yet these heroic displays barely scratch the surface of Ukrainian resistance. From sharing food to taking up arms, Ukrainians across the country are united in repelling the invaders — and protecting our homeland. President Vladimir Putin was apparently confident that Russia would defeat Ukraine in two or three days. But he picked the wrong nation to mess with. The Ukrainian Army, destroying enemy tanks and intercepting missiles, has been remarkable. And behind it stand legions of Ukrainians who have made camouflage netting, dispatched humanitarian aid and raised funds. The sums, for a country under attack, are astounding: In one day, Ukraine’s most-trusted military aid nonprofit, Come Back Alive, raised over $680,000 — a donation larger than the amount raised in all of 2021. The National Bank of Ukraine, which opened a special account to raise funds for Ukraine’s military, received nearly $10 million in just the first day of the war. Some stories, like that of 8-year-old Alisa Zhuk from Kyiv, are especially touching. The little girl is selling her drawings for $20 and up, donating all proceeds to the army — to make sure that Ukrainian soldiers have enough food and clothes, she said. “Our children,” her mother told me, “will grow up proud of Ukraine.” Many citizens have gone a step further in their support and joined territorial defense units. As of Feb. 26, two days into Russia’s invasion, 37,000 Ukrainians were signed up. Now journalists, artists, musicians, TV hosts, comedians and thousands of others are patrolling the streets. Using conventional arms and Molotov cocktails — which have become something of a revered national weapon — they have apprehended saboteurs, shot down drones and stopped enemy tanks. In the defense of our country, they have been indispensable. Ivan and Danylo Stolyarevskyi, brothers from Kyiv, wanted to join them. But because resources could not keep pace with the overwhelming number of volunteers, they were turned down. So the brothers joined Ukraine’s resistance online instead. Ivan, 27, now spends his time writing Google reviews for Russian cafes and restaurants. But they are no ordinary reviews. “Russian troops have been bombing Kyiv and its peaceful residents for 4 days,” one reads. “Go out in the streets — stop the deaths of children.” By flooding places where Russians are congregating online, Ivan and the hundreds of others writing similar messages hope to spread the truth of the Kremlin’s atrocities. Danylo, 30, plays a different role. He’s part of the “I.T. Army of Ukraine,” a group chat with over 285,000 participants on the messaging app Telegram. There, web developers from all over the country coordinate cyberattacks on Russian and Belarusian websites. The method is quite simple. Regular websites in Russia and Belarus aren’t equipped to handle large numbers of visitors, so to destabilize them, a group of people reload the web page many times. Dozens of strategically important websites have been struck down, including that of the National Bank of Belarus. “It is a drop in the ocean, but you feel your small contribution to the common cause,” Danylo told me. That’s something every Ukrainian is doing, in ways big and small. Even under bombardment, people have lined up to donate blood, providing vital assistance to the country’s hospitals. Volunteers take food and supplies to underground shelters where hundreds and sometimes thousands of people are gathered. People look out for one another and acts of kindness are the norm. In Kharkiv, which has been under heavy bombardment for days, an English-speaking Ukrainian girl walked dozens of international students through Metro tunnels, helping them get on a train to evacuate. That support extends to those who leave as well as those who stay. For the roughly two million people who have either fled the country or are traveling within it, volunteers help to arrange accommodation and, where possible, transport. Ukrainians abroad, mainly in countries along the border, have been collecting truckfuls of humanitarian aid to support arriving refugees. No matter where they are, Ukrainians have the support of their compatriots. That doesn’t lessen the tragedy of the situation. After over a week of war, the Kremlin’s aim appears to be to encircle and capture major cities, heedless of the death and destruction Russian forces leave in their wake. Already, the toll is heavy: In the first week of conflict, according to the United Nations, 227 civilians were killed and 525 were wounded. The Russian Army, loaded up with artillery, is going to continue its brutal bombardment of the country. For Ukrainians, in flight, fight or shelter, there will be no respite. But we are defiant. With every act of bravery and courage, Ukrainians show that we are ready to pay the highest price for democracy — ours and the world over. In this battle, we will not surrender and we will not capitulate. Because our freedom is immutable.

Putin picked the wrong country to mess with

Ukraine has begun evacuating civilians from the town of Irpin near the capital Kyiv after days of heavy aerial bombardment by Russian forces. WION's Anas Mallick brings you this report from the ground zero.

Ground Report: Irpin faces heat as Russian troops advance towards Kyiv

Ukrainian military has a tough job at hand to close all channels entering Kyiv to keep the Russian troops out but at the same time to keep the humanitarian routes open to help its civilians evacuate. WION's Anas Mallick brings you this report from a bridge Bucha region and Irpin.

Ukraine destroys bridge of Bucha to keep Russians out of Kyiv

Moscow threatens to close a major gas pipeline to Germany after the US pushed its European allies to consider banning Russian oil imports over its invasion of Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine war puts oil market in turmoil

Why has Ukraine been able to stall Russian advance?

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. Ukrainian military intelligence on Tuesday (March 8) said that the forces have killed a Russian general near the besieged city of Kharkiv, Reuters reported citing a ministry statement. If the reports are to be believed, this is the second Russian senior commander to die in the invasion since President Vladimir Putin ordered a "military operation" in the Ukrainian cities. ALSO READ | UK's Queen meets Canada's PM in first in-person meeting since catching Covid; pays tribute to Ukraine Major General Vitaly Gerasimov, who is said to be the first deputy commander of Russia's 41st army, was reportedly killed on Monday (March 7), the Chief Directorate of Intelligence of Ukraine's defence ministry said in a statement. Although, the report has not been verified by the Russian side. Previously, another Russian general, Andrei Sukhovetsky, also a deputy commander of the 41st army, was reported killed at the end of February. Ukraine says its forces have killed more than 11,000 Russian troops. Russia has confirmed about 500 losses. IN PICS | What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks Meanwhile, Russian news agencies reported that Moscow has proposed the establishment of humanitarian corridors to allow civilians to leave five Ukrainian cities from 9 am local time (0700 GMT) on Tuesday (March 8) pending the Ukrainian agreement. But most of the corridors would travel through Russia or Belarus, something Ukrainian authorities have rejected in the past. Ukraine has been given until 3 am Moscow time (0000 GMT) to agree to the terms, Interfax said. WATCH | Here's a look at the military arsenal of Ukraine and Russia being used during the ongoing war × (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Second Russian general reportedly killed

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