According to reports, Kremlin claimed to have destroyed 118 Ukraine's military infrastructure sites while Russia's paratroopers have taken control of Chernobyl plant & entered Kyiv.

Reports: Russian troops destroy 118 Ukrainian military sites

Top Biden administration official has said that Russian forces have entered Ukraine through Belarus and are about 20 miles from Kyiv. At least two loud explosions reverberated across the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, at dawn on Friday.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Russian forces about 20 miles away from Kyiv, warns US

Russian airborne troops have taken control of the Antonov Airport, which is about 25 miles away from the capital city Kyiv, Ukraine.

Ukraine Under Attack: Russian forces take control of an air base near Kyiv

A new 'refugee crisis': As Russia attacks Ukraine, thousands flee the chaos

As Russia attacks Ukraine, thousands flee the chaos

In Pics: From New York to Japan, anti-war demonstrations take over the streets

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p>Nearly 1,400 people were detained by Russian police during anti-war protests across the country after President Vladimir Putin sent troops to invade Ukraine, an independent monitor reported Thursday.</p>

<p>"More than 1,391 people have already been detained in 51 cities," said OVD-Info, which tracks arrests at opposition rallies. According to the monitor, more than 700 people have been detained in Moscow and over 340 in Saint Petersburg, the second-largest city.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-says-his-country-had-been-left-alone-to-fight-russia-456242" hreflang="en">Ukrainian President says his country had been 'left alone' to fight Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>In the early hours of Thursday, a number of Russian activists called on social media for people to take to the streets after Putin launched an offensive on Ukraine.</p>

<p>Approximately 2,000 protesters gathered near Pushkin Square in central Moscow, and up to 1,000 protesters gathered in Saint Petersburg, the former imperial capital.</p>

<p>Around Pushkin Square in Moscow, protesters chanted "No to war!"</p>

<p>"I am in shock. My relatives and loved ones live in Ukraine," Anastasia Nestulya, 23, said in Moscow.</p>

<p>"What can I tell them over the phone? You hang in there?" She said many were afraid to protest.</p>

<p>In Saint Petersburg, many struck a similar note.</p>

<p>"I have a feeling that the authorities have gone mad," said Svetlana Volkova, 27. The Russian protestor said that most people were unwilling to protest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"People have been fooled by propaganda."</p>

<p>As he was dragged away by three police officers, a young man shouted: "Who are you fighting with? Arrest Putin."</p>

<p>In recent years, protest laws in Russia have been toughened, and demonstrations often result in mass arrests.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ukraine-russia-conflict-stephen-king-piers-morgan-other-celebs-react-455996" hreflang="en">Ukraine-Russia conflict: Stephen King, Piers Morgan &amp; other celebs react</a></strong></p>

<p>Alexei Navalny, the jailed opposition leader who used to organise Russia's largest anti-Putin protests said he was against the invasion of Ukraine on Thursday.</p>

<p>The independent television channel Dozhd published a video in which Navalny was heard saying, "I am against this war.".</p>

<p>"This war between Russia and Ukraine was unleashed to cover up the theft from Russian citizens and divert their attention from problems that exist inside the country," the 45-year-old said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian authorities had warned anti-war sympathisers against protesting.</p>

<p>Investigative Committee, the government body that investigates major crimes, warned Russians, that they could face legal repercussions for joining unsanctioned protests related to "the tense foreign political situation".</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Ukrainians around the world hold rallies &amp; call to 'stop Putin now'</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-conflict-ukrainians-around-the-world-hold-rallies-call-to-stop-putin-now-456231/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"One should be aware of the negative legal consequences of these actions in the form of prosecution up to criminal liability," the committee said.</p>

<p>On social media, these arrests have earned Russia and Putin some major scorn with some going so far as to label the Russian premier a "tyrant".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">1400 arrested across 51 locations at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/antiwar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#antiwar</a> protests in Russia. I stand with them. This is NOT Russia attacking, but a tyrant who needs to go <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NoMoreWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NoMoreWar</a></p>
— Darryll 🌈 (@darryllm) <a href="https://twitter.com/darryllm/status/1496941376113901569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">800 people arrested at Moscow antiwar protest. Russia is a fascist state and will hopefully someday be dissolved. <a href="https://t.co/1sAlRYkWJP">https://t.co/1sAlRYkWJP</a></p>
— Exiled Arizona (@exiledarizona) <a href="https://twitter.com/exiledarizona/status/1496902579497803777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🙏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> also for those in Russia being arrested for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AntiWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AntiWar</a> protests as they stand up to Putin! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UkraineInvasion?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UkraineInvasion</a> <a href="https://t.co/uRGBCcTQsD">https://t.co/uRGBCcTQsD</a></p>
— Miss H Pinner🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🌈🧡#EqualityForAll (@hazelmpinner) <a href="https://twitter.com/hazelmpinner/status/1496975549805506562?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Modern realities of Putin's power.<br />
6 cops detain one man who took to the streets of his country to protest against the war.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Moscow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Moscow</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/protest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#protest</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AntiWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AntiWar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AntiWarProtest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AntiWarProtest</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kiev?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kiev</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kyiv?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kyiv</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/subwaystation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#subwaystation</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RussiaInvadedUkraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RussiaInvadedUkraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/russianinvasion?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#russianinvasion</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UkraineRussiaConflict?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UkraineRussiaConflict</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Putin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Putin</a> <a href="https://t.co/UnEWkWyEwJ">pic.twitter.com/UnEWkWyEwJ</a></p>
— Chaudhary Parvez (@ChaudharyParvez) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChaudharyParvez/status/1497032414366863360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Many have come out in support of the protestors</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">To protest in Russia against the Russian government is the benchmark for all of us. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/moscow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#moscow</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StPetersburg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StPetersburg</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/protest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#protest</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/antiwar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#antiwar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a></p>
— Sophie Walker (@SophieRunning) <a href="https://twitter.com/SophieRunning/status/1496977130999234562?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/antiwar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#antiwar</a> protest in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a><br />
The police arrests the protestors. One of them: "Arrest Putin, not me" :) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UkraineRussiaConflict?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UkraineRussiaConflict</a> <a href="https://t.co/kW3Le29Twa">pic.twitter.com/kW3Le29Twa</a></p>
— Tatevik Hovhannisyan (@tatevik_arm) <a href="https://twitter.com/tatevik_arm/status/1496962877743325187?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This.<br />
This is a freedom convoy. This is what it looks like to stand up to a dictator.<br />
<br />
Not the privileged adult temper tantrum/ street party/ bender drenched in fragility that terrorized Ottawa for 3+ weeks.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AntiWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AntiWar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Protest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Protest</a> <a href="https://t.co/dk00b3Ky1q">https://t.co/dk00b3Ky1q</a></p>
— Minka Singh (@minkasingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/minkasingh/status/1497029009464516612?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Nearly 1,400 people were detained by Russian police during anti-war protests across the country after President Vladimir Putin sent troops to invade Ukraine, an independent monitor reported Thursday. "More than 1,391 people have already been detained in 51 cities," said OVD-Info, which tracks arrests at opposition rallies. According to the monitor, more than 700 people have been detained in Moscow and over 340 in Saint Petersburg, the second-largest city. Also read | Ukrainian President says his country had been 'left alone' to fight Russia In the early hours of Thursday, a number of Russian activists called on social media for people to take to the streets after Putin launched an offensive on Ukraine. Approximately 2,000 protesters gathered near Pushkin Square in central Moscow, and up to 1,000 protesters gathered in Saint Petersburg, the former imperial capital. Around Pushkin Square in Moscow, protesters chanted "No to war!" "I am in shock. My relatives and loved ones live in Ukraine," Anastasia Nestulya, 23, said in Moscow. "What can I tell them over the phone? You hang in there?" She said many were afraid to protest. In Saint Petersburg, many struck a similar note. "I have a feeling that the authorities have gone mad," said Svetlana Volkova, 27. The Russian protestor said that most people were unwilling to protest. "People have been fooled by propaganda." As he was dragged away by three police officers, a young man shouted: "Who are you fighting with? Arrest Putin." In recent years, protest laws in Russia have been toughened, and demonstrations often result in mass arrests. Also read | Ukraine-Russia conflict: Stephen King, Piers Morgan & other celebs react Alexei Navalny, the jailed opposition leader who used to organise Russia's largest anti-Putin protests said he was against the invasion of Ukraine on Thursday. The independent television channel Dozhd published a video in which Navalny was heard saying, "I am against this war.". "This war between Russia and Ukraine was unleashed to cover up the theft from Russian citizens and divert their attention from problems that exist inside the country," the 45-year-old said. Russian authorities had warned anti-war sympathisers against protesting. Investigative Committee, the government body that investigates major crimes, warned Russians, that they could face legal repercussions for joining unsanctioned protests related to "the tense foreign political situation". Watch | Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Ukrainians around the world hold rallies & call to 'stop Putin now' "One should be aware of the negative legal consequences of these actions in the form of prosecution up to criminal liability," the committee said. On social media, these arrests have earned Russia and Putin some major scorn with some going so far as to label the Russian premier a "tyrant". 1400 arrested across 51 locations at #antiwar protests in Russia. I stand with them. This is NOT Russia attacking, but a tyrant who needs to go #NoMoreWar — Darryll 🌈 (@darryllm) February 24, 2022 × 800 people arrested at Moscow antiwar protest. Russia is a fascist state and will hopefully someday be dissolved. https://t.co/1sAlRYkWJP — Exiled Arizona (@exiledarizona) February 24, 2022 × 🙏 #Ukraine also for those in Russia being arrested for #AntiWar protests as they stand up to Putin! #UkraineInvasion https://t.co/uRGBCcTQsD — Miss H Pinner🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🌈🧡#EqualityForAll (@hazelmpinner) February 24, 2022 × Modern realities of Putin's power. 6 cops detain one man who took to the streets of his country to protest against the war.#Russia #Ukraine #Moscow #protest #AntiWar #AntiWarProtest #Kiev #Kyiv #subwaystation #RussiaInvadedUkraine #russianinvasion #UkraineRussiaConflict #Putin pic.twitter.com/UnEWkWyEwJ — Chaudhary Parvez (@ChaudharyParvez) February 25, 2022 × Many have come out in support of the protestors To protest in Russia against the Russian government is the benchmark for all of us. #moscow #StPetersburg #protest #antiwar #Ukraine — Sophie Walker (@SophieRunning) February 24, 2022 × #antiwar protest in #Russia The police arrests the protestors. One of them: "Arrest Putin, not me" :) #UkraineRussiaConflict pic.twitter.com/kW3Le29Twa — Tatevik Hovhannisyan (@tatevik_arm) February 24, 2022 × This. This is a freedom convoy. This is what it looks like to stand up to a dictator. Not the privileged adult temper tantrum/ street party/ bender drenched in fragility that terrorized Ottawa for 3+ weeks.#Ukraine #AntiWar #Protest https://t.co/dk00b3Ky1q — Minka Singh (@minkasingh) February 25, 2022 × (With inputs from agencies)

In Russia, police arrest thousands participating in 'anti-war' protests, threaten with 'legal repercussions'

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<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p>After Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the launch of a military operation against Ukraine on Thursday (February 24), several reports emerged that the Russian forces have fired missiles at several cities in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>News agencies also stated that Russia has landed troops on its coast on Thursday, officials and media said, after President Putin authorised what he called a special military operation in the east.&nbsp;</p>

<p>AFP reported that loud explosions were heard in Mariupol, which is in eastern Ukraine. A CNN correspondent reported that he heard sounds of explosions from Kharkiv and he later informed that explosions near Kyiv were missile strikes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged the citizens not to panic and also vowed victory. He also imposed martial law across the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba stated how the world can help Ukraine need right now.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The world must act immediately. Future of Europe &amp; the world is at stake," Kuleba said in a tweet, adding a to-do list.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>To do list:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>1. Devastating sanctions on Russia NOW, including SWIFT&nbsp;</p>

<p>2. Fully isolate Russia by all means, in all formats&nbsp;</p>

<p>3. Weapons, equipment for Ukraine&nbsp;</p>

<p>4. Financial assistance&nbsp;</p>

<p>5. Humanitarian assistance</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. After Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the launch of a military operation against Ukraine on Thursday (February 24), several reports emerged that the Russian forces have fired missiles at several cities in Ukraine. News agencies also stated that Russia has landed troops on its coast on Thursday, officials and media said, after President Putin authorised what he called a special military operation in the east. AFP reported that loud explosions were heard in Mariupol, which is in eastern Ukraine. A CNN correspondent reported that he heard sounds of explosions from Kharkiv and he later informed that explosions near Kyiv were missile strikes. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged the citizens not to panic and also vowed victory. He also imposed martial law across the country. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba stated how the world can help Ukraine need right now. "The world must act immediately. Future of Europe & the world is at stake," Kuleba said in a tweet, adding a to-do list. To do list: 1. Devastating sanctions on Russia NOW, including SWIFT 2. Fully isolate Russia by all means, in all formats 3. Weapons, equipment for Ukraine 4. Financial assistance 5. Humanitarian assistance ×

Russia-Ukraine conflict: What does Ukraine need right now? Its minister has some answers.

The Russian defense ministry said that it is targeting Ukrainian military infrastructure with precision weapons but there are no threats to the civilian population.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Nothing threatens Ukraine's civilian population, says Russia

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="3">On Thursday, Russia launched an all-out land, air, and sea invasion of Ukraine, the worst attack by one country against another in Europe since World War II, fulfilling the West's greatest fears.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="5">According to Mirror, distressing photo of a man crying over the body of what appears to be a relative has highlighted the brutal reality of the looming conflict.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="6">As the sun rose this morning in Ukraine, the early toll of Russian missile strikes on densely populated cities began to emerge.<br />
<br />
<strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-bow-down-ukraine-president-vows-to-fight-back-against-aggressor-russia-456029">‘Won’t bow down’: Ukraine president vows to fight back against Russia</a></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="7">An attack on a military unit in Podilsk, near Odessa, killed six people and injured seven, according to officials.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="8">The photos are thought to have been taken in Donbas, which is located in the separatist Donetsk area of the country's east.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="9">One of the strikes seemed to have killed him.<br />
<br />
<strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/50-russian-occupiers-killed-we-have-losses-says-ukraine-as-casualties-rise-455989">'50 Russian occupiers killed': We have losses, says Ukraine as casualties rise</a></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="10">The man is shown on his knees in the rubble, crying and holding his hands to his face in a heartbreaking photo.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="11">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on all citizens who are ready to defend the country from Russian forces to come forward, saying Kyiv will issue weapons to everyone who wants them.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="12"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


On Thursday, Russia launched an all-out land, air, and sea invasion of Ukraine, the worst attack by one country against another in Europe since World War II, fulfilling the West's greatest fears.

On Thursday, Russia launched an all-out land, air, and sea invasion of Ukraine, the worst attack by one country against another in Europe since World War II, fulfilling the West's greatest fears. According to Mirror, distressing photo of a man crying over the body of what appears to be a relative has highlighted the brutal reality of the looming conflict. As the sun rose this morning in Ukraine, the early toll of Russian missile strikes on densely populated cities began to emerge. Also read | ‘Won’t bow down’: Ukraine president vows to fight back against Russia An attack on a military unit in Podilsk, near Odessa, killed six people and injured seven, according to officials. The photos are thought to have been taken in Donbas, which is located in the separatist Donetsk area of the country's east. One of the strikes seemed to have killed him. Also read | '50 Russian occupiers killed': We have losses, says Ukraine as casualties rise The man is shown on his knees in the rubble, crying and holding his hands to his face in a heartbreaking photo. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on all citizens who are ready to defend the country from Russian forces to come forward, saying Kyiv will issue weapons to everyone who wants them. (With inputs from agencies)

Picture shows a Ukrainian crying near body of man killed in Russian strike

<p>"The world will hold Russia accountable" for its attack against Ukraine, US President Joe Biden said on Wednesday. He warned the attack will cause "catastrophic loss of life."</p>

<p>Following the announcement of the start of military operations in Ukraine by Russian President Vladimir Putin, Biden said he would address the US public on Thursday to speak on the 'consequences' for Russia. He described the attack as "unprovoked and unjustified".</p>

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-updates-russia-ukraine-crisis-air-raid-siren-rings-out-in-kyiv-after-explosions-455211">Live updates: Russia-Ukraine crisis: Air raid siren rings out in Kyiv after explosions</a></h2>

<p>"Russia alone is responsible for the death and destruction this attack will bring, and the United States and its Allies and partners will respond in a united and decisive way. The world will hold Russia accountable," he said.</p>

<p>Biden said his prayers were with the people of Ukraine "as they suffer an unprovoked and unjustified attack by Russian military forces", adding that Putin had chosen a premeditated war that would bring a catastrophic loss of life and human suffering.</p>

<p>In a last-minute plea to Putin, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appealed to stop the war "in the name of humanity", after the Russian leader announced the military operation.</p>

<p>"President Putin, in the name of humanity bring your troops back to Russia," he said after an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council over the crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the name of humanity do not allow to start in Europe what could be the worst war since the beginning of the century," he said, adding the conflict "must stop now."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-russia-conflict-first-pictures-455872">Ukraine-Russia conflict: First pictures</a></strong></p>

<p>Condemning the "reckless and unprovoked attack" on Ukraine, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said NATO allies would meet to tackle the consequences of Moscow's "aggressive actions".</p>

<p>German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described the Russian military operation in Ukraine as "a glaring violation" of international law on a "dark day" for Europe.</p>

<p>"Germany condemns in the strongest possible terms this unscrupulous act by President Putin. Our solidarity goes out to Ukraine and its people," he added in a statement.</p>

<p>Scholz, whose country currently holds the presidency of the G7 forum, said it was "a terrible day for Ukraine".</p>

<p>He urged Moscow to stop its military operation "immediately".</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Emergency UNSC meeting on Ukraine: Security Council to vote on a resolution condemning Russia</strong></p>

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<p>Boris Johnson, the British Prime Minister, also condemned the "horrific events in Ukraine", saying Russian President Vladimir Putin "has chosen a path of bloodshed and destruction by launching this unprovoked attack".</p>

<p>"The UK and our allies will respond decisively," he tweeted, adding he had spoken to Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky.</p>

<p>Even as world leaders condemn this alleged "attack," Russia's ambassador to the UN said in an emergency meeting of the Security Council late Wednesday that Moscow's military operation against Ukraine is only targeted at&nbsp;"the junta" in power in Kyiv.</p>

<p>"I wanted to say in conclusion that we aren't being aggressive against the Ukrainian people but against the junta that is in power in Kiyv," said Vassily Nebenzia.</p>

<p>"These are among the darkest hours of Europe since the Second World War, said European Commission foreign policy chief Josep Borrell</p>

<p>"The EU will respond in the strongest possible terms and agree on the harshest package of sanctions we have ever implemented," he added.</p>

<p>"We have a land war in Europe that we thought was only to find in history books. It is a flagrant breach of international law. For Russia, this attack will have severe political and economic consequences," said Germany's Economy Minister Robert Habeck.</p>

<p>China said it was closely monitoring the situation.</p>

<p>"China is closely monitoring the latest situation. We call on all sides to exercise restraint to prevent the situation from getting out of control," said Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


"The world will hold Russia accountable" for its attack against Ukraine, US President Joe Biden said on Wednesday. He warned the attack will cause "catastrophic loss of life.

"The world will hold Russia accountable" for its attack against Ukraine, US President Joe Biden said on Wednesday. He warned the attack will cause "catastrophic loss of life." Following the announcement of the start of military operations in Ukraine by Russian President Vladimir Putin, Biden said he would address the US public on Thursday to speak on the 'consequences' for Russia. He described the attack as "unprovoked and unjustified". Live updates: Russia-Ukraine crisis: Air raid siren rings out in Kyiv after explosions "Russia alone is responsible for the death and destruction this attack will bring, and the United States and its Allies and partners will respond in a united and decisive way. The world will hold Russia accountable," he said. Biden said his prayers were with the people of Ukraine "as they suffer an unprovoked and unjustified attack by Russian military forces", adding that Putin had chosen a premeditated war that would bring a catastrophic loss of life and human suffering. In a last-minute plea to Putin, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appealed to stop the war "in the name of humanity", after the Russian leader announced the military operation. "President Putin, in the name of humanity bring your troops back to Russia," he said after an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council over the crisis. "In the name of humanity do not allow to start in Europe what could be the worst war since the beginning of the century," he said, adding the conflict "must stop now." Also read | Ukraine-Russia conflict: First pictures Condemning the "reckless and unprovoked attack" on Ukraine, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said NATO allies would meet to tackle the consequences of Moscow's "aggressive actions". German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described the Russian military operation in Ukraine as "a glaring violation" of international law on a "dark day" for Europe. "Germany condemns in the strongest possible terms this unscrupulous act by President Putin. Our solidarity goes out to Ukraine and its people," he added in a statement. Scholz, whose country currently holds the presidency of the G7 forum, said it was "a terrible day for Ukraine". He urged Moscow to stop its military operation "immediately". Watch | Emergency UNSC meeting on Ukraine: Security Council to vote on a resolution condemning Russia Boris Johnson, the British Prime Minister, also condemned the "horrific events in Ukraine", saying Russian President Vladimir Putin "has chosen a path of bloodshed and destruction by launching this unprovoked attack". "The UK and our allies will respond decisively," he tweeted, adding he had spoken to Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky. Even as world leaders condemn this alleged "attack," Russia's ambassador to the UN said in an emergency meeting of the Security Council late Wednesday that Moscow's military operation against Ukraine is only targeted at "the junta" in power in Kyiv. "I wanted to say in conclusion that we aren't being aggressive against the Ukrainian people but against the junta that is in power in Kiyv," said Vassily Nebenzia. "These are among the darkest hours of Europe since the Second World War, said European Commission foreign policy chief Josep Borrell "The EU will respond in the strongest possible terms and agree on the harshest package of sanctions we have ever implemented," he added. "We have a land war in Europe that we thought was only to find in history books. It is a flagrant breach of international law. For Russia, this attack will have severe political and economic consequences," said Germany's Economy Minister Robert Habeck. China said it was closely monitoring the situation. "China is closely monitoring the latest situation. We call on all sides to exercise restraint to prevent the situation from getting out of control," said Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying. (With inputs from agencies)

'In the name of humanity': UN Chief's plea, Biden's warning as leaders react to Russia's Ukraine move

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuiduVi2ogcXMoMR" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday (February 24) that Russia was attacking the country's "military infrastructure" and border guards.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a video message on Facebook addressed to the nation, Zelensky has urged the citizens not to panic and also vowed victory.&nbsp;The address came after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the launch of a military operation against Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine's border guard service said as mentioned&nbsp;by news agency AFP&nbsp;that the country is coming under artillery attack along its northern border with&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and Belarus on Thursday. The official added&nbsp;that Ukrainian forces were returning fire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement was issued as a Ukrainian interior ministry official reported the Ukrainian government-held town of Shchastya had fallen to Russian-backed eastern insurgents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid the heightened tensions, Zelensky has also introduced martial law across the country, adding that he had spoken by phone with US President Joe Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>White House released a statement after the phone call between Biden and the Ukrainian President. It read: "President Zelenskyy reached out to me tonight and we just finished speaking. I condemned this unprovoked and unjustified attack by Russian military forces."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I briefed him on the steps we are taking to rally international condemnation, including tonight at the United Nations Security Council. He asked me to call on the leaders of the world to speak out clearly against President Putin’s flagrant aggression, and to stand with the people of Ukraine," it further read.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Tomorrow, I will be meeting with the Leaders of the G7, and the United States and our Allies and partners will be imposing severe sanctions on Russia. We will continue to provide support and assistance to Ukraine and the Ukrainian people," it further added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia announces military operations in Ukraine as tensions mount to their climax</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. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday (February 24) that Russia was attacking the country's "military infrastructure" and border guards. In a video message on Facebook addressed to the nation, Zelensky has urged the citizens not to panic and also vowed victory. The address came after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the launch of a military operation against Ukraine. Ukraine's border guard service said as mentioned by news agency AFP that the country is coming under artillery attack along its northern border with Russia and Belarus on Thursday. The official added that Ukrainian forces were returning fire. The statement was issued as a Ukrainian interior ministry official reported the Ukrainian government-held town of Shchastya had fallen to Russian-backed eastern insurgents. Amid the heightened tensions, Zelensky has also introduced martial law across the country, adding that he had spoken by phone with US President Joe Biden. White House released a statement after the phone call between Biden and the Ukrainian President. It read: "President Zelenskyy reached out to me tonight and we just finished speaking. I condemned this unprovoked and unjustified attack by Russian military forces." "I briefed him on the steps we are taking to rally international condemnation, including tonight at the United Nations Security Council. He asked me to call on the leaders of the world to speak out clearly against President Putin’s flagrant aggression, and to stand with the people of Ukraine," it further read. "Tomorrow, I will be meeting with the Leaders of the G7, and the United States and our Allies and partners will be imposing severe sanctions on Russia. We will continue to provide support and assistance to Ukraine and the Ukrainian people," it further added. WATCH | Russia announces military operations in Ukraine as tensions mount to their climax ×

'Ukraine under attack': President Zelensky imposes martial law, calls up Joe Biden

<p>Hours after launching a full-scale military action against Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday clarified said that Kremlin had no other choice but to “invade” its neighbour’s borders, according to AFP.</p>

<p>“What was happening left us with no choice,” the Russian leader said during a televised meeting with business representatives, adding that “we had no other way of proceeding”.</p>

<p>The remarks are in stark contrast to what was said earlier by the Russian leader that Moscow had no plans of launching a full-scale invasion.</p>

<p>Putin also said his country wanted to remain part of the world economy and had no plans to harm it.</p>

<p>“Russia remains part of the world economy,” he said.</p>

<p>“We are not going to damage the world economic system which we are part of," he said, adding he also did not want Russia to be excluded from the international economic community.</p>

<p>"It seems to me that our partners should understand this and not set themselves the task of pushing us out of this system," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-bow-down-ukraine-president-vows-to-fight-back-against-aggressor-russia-456029">‘Won’t bow down’: Ukraine president vows to fight back against Russia</a></p>

<p>The attack triggered Western warnings of unprecedented sanctions against Russia as NATO, EU and G7 leaders condemned the attack and vowed to hold Moscow accountable.</p>

<p>Russian airstrikes hit military installations across the country as ground forces moved in from the north, south and east, forcing many Ukrainians to flee their homes to the sounds of the bombing.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/50-russian-occupiers-killed-we-have-losses-says-ukraine-as-casualties-rise-455989">'50 Russian occupiers killed': We have losses, says Ukraine as casualties rise</a></p>

<p>Across Ukraine, at least 68 people were killed, including both soldiers and civilians, according to an AFP reported citing Ukrainian official sources.</p>

<p>Britain said it is freezing the UK assets of Russian elites in banking and arms manufacturing, sanctioning five more oligarchs and banning Aeroflot from its airspace, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Thursday.</p>

<p>The US government also imposed sanctions&nbsp;on two Russian banks, Moscow's sovereign debt, several oligarchs and other measures.</p>

<p>Germany had earlier announced it would block the pipeline from opening for deliveries.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine under attack from land and sea, 'full scale' military operation underway</strong></p>

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<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


Hours after launching a full-scale military action against Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday clarified said that Kremlin had no other choice but to “invade” its neighbour’s borders, according to AFP.

Hours after launching a full-scale military action against Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday clarified said that Kremlin had no other choice but to “invade” its neighbour’s borders, according to AFP. “What was happening left us with no choice,” the Russian leader said during a televised meeting with business representatives, adding that “we had no other way of proceeding”. The remarks are in stark contrast to what was said earlier by the Russian leader that Moscow had no plans of launching a full-scale invasion. Putin also said his country wanted to remain part of the world economy and had no plans to harm it. “Russia remains part of the world economy,” he said. “We are not going to damage the world economic system which we are part of," he said, adding he also did not want Russia to be excluded from the international economic community. "It seems to me that our partners should understand this and not set themselves the task of pushing us out of this system," he added. Also read | ‘Won’t bow down’: Ukraine president vows to fight back against Russia The attack triggered Western warnings of unprecedented sanctions against Russia as NATO, EU and G7 leaders condemned the attack and vowed to hold Moscow accountable. Russian airstrikes hit military installations across the country as ground forces moved in from the north, south and east, forcing many Ukrainians to flee their homes to the sounds of the bombing. Also read | '50 Russian occupiers killed': We have losses, says Ukraine as casualties rise Across Ukraine, at least 68 people were killed, including both soldiers and civilians, according to an AFP reported citing Ukrainian official sources. Britain said it is freezing the UK assets of Russian elites in banking and arms manufacturing, sanctioning five more oligarchs and banning Aeroflot from its airspace, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Thursday. The US government also imposed sanctions on two Russian banks, Moscow's sovereign debt, several oligarchs and other measures. Germany had earlier announced it would block the pipeline from opening for deliveries. Watch | Ukraine under attack from land and sea, 'full scale' military operation underway (With inputs from agencies)

‘No choice but to invade Ukraine to defend Russia’, says Vladimir Putin

<p>Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan arrived in Russia on Wednesday (February 23) for a two-day official visit amid the heightened Russia-Ukraine crisis, as the United States watches the visit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When he landed in Moscow, Khan said, "What a time I have come, so much excitement. So excited on coming to Moscow. Saw President Ali meeting President Putin on television. Look forward to my meeting tomorrow."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The crucial visit is the first by a Pakistani premier in over two decades during which he will hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin to reset the bilateral ties and expand cooperation in the energy sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-removes-ex-president-ghani-from-heads-of-state-list-455599">UN removes ex-President Ghani from heads of state list</a></strong></p>

<p>The visit has become significant from a global perspective as it has come when the Russia-Ukraine crisis is escalating with the passing of each day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The&nbsp;meeting will take place hours after US President Joe Biden and other Western governments imposed tough economic sanctions on Russia for sending its military into parts of eastern Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While commenting on Imran Khan's visit, US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price told during a media briefing that "we are certainly aware of the trip".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Price said, "We are certainly aware of the trip and we believe it's the responsibility of every responsible country around the world to voice concern, to voice objection to what Putin appears to have in mind for Ukraine."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Imran Khan's Russia&nbsp;visit</strong></p>

<p>During the visit, Khan is accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry, Planning and Development Minister Asad Umar, Commerce Adviser Abdul Razak Dawood and National Security Adviser Dr Moeed Yusuf.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Pakistan's Foreign Office, the bilateral summit between Prime Minister Khan and President Putin will be the highlight of the visit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-imposes-restriction-on-importing-afghan-cultural-items-455721">US imposes restriction on importing Afghan cultural items</a></strong></p>

<p>The FO said, "During the Summit meeting, the two leaders will review the entire array of bilateral relations including energy cooperation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They will also have a wide-ranging exchange of views on major regional and international issues, including Islamophobia and the situation in Afghanistan," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It said the visit of the Prime Minister will contribute to the further deepening of the multifaceted Pakistan-Russia bilateral relationship and enhancement of mutual cooperation in diverse fields.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a tweet, the Russian Foreign Office said that President Putin and Prime Minister Khan will hold talks in Moscow on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Imran Khan visits Russia amid Ukraine crisis</strong></p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan arrived in Russia on Wednesday (February 23) for a two-day official visit amid the heightened Russia-Ukraine crisis, as the United States watches the visit.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan arrived in Russia on Wednesday (February 23) for a two-day official visit amid the heightened Russia-Ukraine crisis, as the United States watches the visit. When he landed in Moscow, Khan said, "What a time I have come, so much excitement. So excited on coming to Moscow. Saw President Ali meeting President Putin on television. Look forward to my meeting tomorrow." The crucial visit is the first by a Pakistani premier in over two decades during which he will hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin to reset the bilateral ties and expand cooperation in the energy sector. ALSO READ | UN removes ex-President Ghani from heads of state list The visit has become significant from a global perspective as it has come when the Russia-Ukraine crisis is escalating with the passing of each day. The meeting will take place hours after US President Joe Biden and other Western governments imposed tough economic sanctions on Russia for sending its military into parts of eastern Ukraine. While commenting on Imran Khan's visit, US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price told during a media briefing that "we are certainly aware of the trip". Price said, "We are certainly aware of the trip and we believe it's the responsibility of every responsible country around the world to voice concern, to voice objection to what Putin appears to have in mind for Ukraine." Imran Khan's Russia visit During the visit, Khan is accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry, Planning and Development Minister Asad Umar, Commerce Adviser Abdul Razak Dawood and National Security Adviser Dr Moeed Yusuf. According to Pakistan's Foreign Office, the bilateral summit between Prime Minister Khan and President Putin will be the highlight of the visit. ALSO READ | US imposes restriction on importing Afghan cultural items The FO said, "During the Summit meeting, the two leaders will review the entire array of bilateral relations including energy cooperation." "They will also have a wide-ranging exchange of views on major regional and international issues, including Islamophobia and the situation in Afghanistan," it added. It said the visit of the Prime Minister will contribute to the further deepening of the multifaceted Pakistan-Russia bilateral relationship and enhancement of mutual cooperation in diverse fields. In a tweet, the Russian Foreign Office said that President Putin and Prime Minister Khan will hold talks in Moscow on Thursday. WATCH | Gravitas: Imran Khan visits Russia amid Ukraine crisis × (With inputs from agencies)

As United States watches, Pakistan PM Imran Khan 'excited' to meet Vladimir Putin in Moscow

<p>Oil prices soared past $100 for the first time in over seven years on Thursday after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a"military operation" in Ukraine, apparently realising fears he would invade.</p>

<p>In response to the announcement, Brent reached $100.04 a barrel, as concerns grew over a full-scale conflict in eastern Europe, and WTI hit $95.54.</p>

<p>This came shortly after Putin made a surprise television announcement declaring his intentions.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-declares-military-operation-to-demilitarise-ukraine-455828">Putin declares military operation 'to demilitarise Ukraine'</a></strong></p>

<p>"I have made the decision of a military operation," Putin said shortly before 6:00 am (0300 GMT) in Moscow, vowing retaliation against anyone who interfered.</p>

<p>In addition, he urged the Ukrainian military to lay down its weapons.</p>

<p>Earlier, the Kremlin reported that rebel leaders in eastern Ukraine had asked Moscow for military assistance against Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following Russia's recognition this week of two breakaway regions in Ukraine and its promise to provide "peacekeepers", US officials warned of a potential Russian incursion.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/even-as-tensions-over-ukraine-rise-us-russian-space-cooperation-continues-455825">Even as tensions over Ukraine rise, US-Russian space cooperation continues</a></strong></p>

<p>After separatists called for help repelling Ukrainian forces, fears of a move grew.</p>

<p>The threat of a conflagration has stoked concerns regarding the supply of key commodities such as wheat and metals at a time when demand is rallying after the reopening of economies following pandemic lockdowns.</p>

<p>Crude oil prices have soared in recent weeks, and on Thursday, Brent crude oil finally crossed the $100 mark for the first time since September 2014.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: China's lessons from the Ukraine crisis</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinas-lessons-from-the-ukraine-crisis-455785/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>"Russia/Ukraine tensions bring both a possible demand shock (for Europe), and more importantly a much larger supply shock for the rest of the world given the importance of Russia and Ukraine to energy, hard commodities and soft commodities," said National Australia Bank's Tapas Strickland.</p>

<p>Governments are struggling to contain runaway inflation fuelled by demand, with many fearing the fragile global economic recovery will be hindered as life returns to normal after recent lockdowns.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Oil prices soared past $100 for the first time in over seven years on Thursday after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a"military operation" in Ukraine, apparently realising fears he would invade.

Oil prices soared past $100 for the first time in over seven years on Thursday after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a"military operation" in Ukraine, apparently realising fears he would invade. In response to the announcement, Brent reached $100.04 a barrel, as concerns grew over a full-scale conflict in eastern Europe, and WTI hit $95.54. This came shortly after Putin made a surprise television announcement declaring his intentions. Also read | Putin declares military operation 'to demilitarise Ukraine' "I have made the decision of a military operation," Putin said shortly before 6:00 am (0300 GMT) in Moscow, vowing retaliation against anyone who interfered. In addition, he urged the Ukrainian military to lay down its weapons. Earlier, the Kremlin reported that rebel leaders in eastern Ukraine had asked Moscow for military assistance against Kyiv. Following Russia's recognition this week of two breakaway regions in Ukraine and its promise to provide "peacekeepers", US officials warned of a potential Russian incursion. Also read | Even as tensions over Ukraine rise, US-Russian space cooperation continues After separatists called for help repelling Ukrainian forces, fears of a move grew. The threat of a conflagration has stoked concerns regarding the supply of key commodities such as wheat and metals at a time when demand is rallying after the reopening of economies following pandemic lockdowns. Crude oil prices have soared in recent weeks, and on Thursday, Brent crude oil finally crossed the $100 mark for the first time since September 2014. Watch | Gravitas: China's lessons from the Ukraine crisis "Russia/Ukraine tensions bring both a possible demand shock (for Europe), and more importantly a much larger supply shock for the rest of the world given the importance of Russia and Ukraine to energy, hard commodities and soft commodities," said National Australia Bank's Tapas Strickland. Governments are struggling to contain runaway inflation fuelled by demand, with many fearing the fragile global economic recovery will be hindered as life returns to normal after recent lockdowns. (With inputs from agencies)

In the wake of Putin's 'military operation' threat, oil prices soar past $100 for the first time since 2014

<p>Global stocks and U.S. bond yields dived on Thursday, while the dollar, gold and oil prices rocketed higher as Russian troops landed in Ukrainian cities on the Black Sea and Ukraine said Moscow had launched a full-scale invasion.</p>

<p>Russian troops landed in the Ukrainian Black Sea port of Odessa and in Mariupol in the eastern Ukrainian region of Donetsk, Russian news agencies reported.</p>

<p>At the same time, Ukrainian military command centres in the cities of Kyiv and Kharkiv came under attack by missile strikes, the Ukrainska Pravda news website cited a Ukrainian interior ministry official as saying.</p>

<p>The attacks came after a blistering warning from Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday. Putin called on Ukrainian soldiers to immediately lay down their weapons and go home, and said the responsibility for any bloodshed will be on the conscience "of the Ukrainian regime", according to comments carried by Russian news agencies.</p>

<p>Putin also authorised special military operations in Ukraine's Donbass region.</p>

<p>Several explosions were heard in the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, before dawn, after an initial series of sounds similar to artillery fire, a Reuters witness reported, shortly after Russia announced the military operation.</p>

<p>The comments worsened an already grim selloff in Asian trade, pushing MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan down more than 3.2%, with Australian shares off more than 3% and Chinese blue chips down 1.3%.</p>

<p>Tokyo's Nikkei was 2.4% lower. U.S. stock&nbsp;market&nbsp;futures were also down sharply, with S&amp;P 500 e-minis down 2.3% and Nasdaq futures 2.8% weaker.</p>

<p>"The&nbsp;market&nbsp;was always trying to judge if they would stop at Donbass, and it looks pretty clear that they are moving toward Kyiv, which was always one of the worst case scenarios, because we now have a long night ahead of us trying to understand how bad this gets, and what sanctions get put up, because there has to be a fresh round of sanctions now against Putin and the Russian government," said Chris Weston, head of research at Pepperstone.</p>

<p>"That's where the worst case, or the bear case scenario is for&nbsp;markets, and that's what we're seeing. There are no buyers here for risk, and there are a lot of sellers out there, so this&nbsp;market&nbsp;is getting hit very hard."</p>

<p>Asset&nbsp;markets have seen a sharp increase in volatility over the deepening crisis, with the Cboe Volatility Index, known as Wall Street's fear gauge, up more than 55% over the past nine days.</p>

<p>Brent crude futures, which seesawed between sharp rises and falls on Wednesday, jumped more than 3.5% to shoot past $100 a barrel on Thursday for the first time since September 2014. West Texas Intermediate leaped 4.6% to $96.22 per barrel, their highest since August 2014.[O/R]</p>

<p>Spot gold jumped more than 1.7% to hit its highest level since early January 2021. [GOL/]</p>

<p>The deepening selloff in equities came after U.S. stocks already took a beating on Wednesday, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average down 1.38% to barely above the level that would have confirmed a correction. The MSCI World Index, a leading gauge of equity&nbsp;markets globally, skidded to its lowest level since April 2021.</p>

<p>Investors have also been grappling with the prospect of imminent policy tightening by the U.S. Federal Reserve aimed at combating surging inflation, which NAB analysts say could be exacerbated by a commodities supply shock.</p>

<p>While expectations of an aggressive 50-basis-point hike at the Fed's March meeting have eased, Fed funds futures continue to point to at least six rate hikes this year. [FEDWATCH]</p>

<p>All the same, immediate geopolitical threats weighed on U.S. yields on Thursday, pushing the benchmark U.S. 10-year yield down sharply to 1.8681% from its U.S. close of 1.977% on Wednesday. The 2-year yield also fell, to 1.5% from a close of 1.6%.</p>

<p>The global flight to safety boosted the dollar, which jumped more than half a percent a basket of other major trading partners to 96.715.</p>

<p>The euro was down 0.8% on the day at $1.1220.</p>

<p>The Russian rouble turned violently lower after posting small gains early in the session. It was last down nearly 4% on top of a 3% slump against the dollar on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The sell-off spread to cryptocurrency&nbsp;markets, pushing bitcoin below $35,000 for the first time in a month.</p>

<p>"Markets are now more adequately pricing in the risk of something horrific happening. That combined with the uncertainty is a horrible environment to be in. No one wants risk exposure when that's floating around," said Rob Carnell, head of Asia Pacific research at ING.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia announces military operations in Ukraine as tensions mount to their climax</strong></p>

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Global stocks and U.S. bond yields dived on Thursday, while the dollar, gold and oil prices rocketed higher as Russian troops landed in Ukrainian cities on the Black Sea and Ukraine said Moscow had launched a full-scale invasion.

Global stocks and U.S. bond yields dived on Thursday, while the dollar, gold and oil prices rocketed higher as Russian troops landed in Ukrainian cities on the Black Sea and Ukraine said Moscow had launched a full-scale invasion. Russian troops landed in the Ukrainian Black Sea port of Odessa and in Mariupol in the eastern Ukrainian region of Donetsk, Russian news agencies reported. At the same time, Ukrainian military command centres in the cities of Kyiv and Kharkiv came under attack by missile strikes, the Ukrainska Pravda news website cited a Ukrainian interior ministry official as saying. The attacks came after a blistering warning from Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday. Putin called on Ukrainian soldiers to immediately lay down their weapons and go home, and said the responsibility for any bloodshed will be on the conscience "of the Ukrainian regime", according to comments carried by Russian news agencies. Putin also authorised special military operations in Ukraine's Donbass region. Several explosions were heard in the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, before dawn, after an initial series of sounds similar to artillery fire, a Reuters witness reported, shortly after Russia announced the military operation. The comments worsened an already grim selloff in Asian trade, pushing MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan down more than 3.2%, with Australian shares off more than 3% and Chinese blue chips down 1.3%. Tokyo's Nikkei was 2.4% lower. U.S. stock market futures were also down sharply, with S&P 500 e-minis down 2.3% and Nasdaq futures 2.8% weaker. "The market was always trying to judge if they would stop at Donbass, and it looks pretty clear that they are moving toward Kyiv, which was always one of the worst case scenarios, because we now have a long night ahead of us trying to understand how bad this gets, and what sanctions get put up, because there has to be a fresh round of sanctions now against Putin and the Russian government," said Chris Weston, head of research at Pepperstone. "That's where the worst case, or the bear case scenario is for markets, and that's what we're seeing. There are no buyers here for risk, and there are a lot of sellers out there, so this market is getting hit very hard." Asset markets have seen a sharp increase in volatility over the deepening crisis, with the Cboe Volatility Index, known as Wall Street's fear gauge, up more than 55% over the past nine days. Brent crude futures, which seesawed between sharp rises and falls on Wednesday, jumped more than 3.5% to shoot past $100 a barrel on Thursday for the first time since September 2014. West Texas Intermediate leaped 4.6% to $96.22 per barrel, their highest since August 2014.[O/R] Spot gold jumped more than 1.7% to hit its highest level since early January 2021. [GOL/] The deepening selloff in equities came after U.S. stocks already took a beating on Wednesday, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average down 1.38% to barely above the level that would have confirmed a correction. The MSCI World Index, a leading gauge of equity markets globally, skidded to its lowest level since April 2021. Investors have also been grappling with the prospect of imminent policy tightening by the U.S. Federal Reserve aimed at combating surging inflation, which NAB analysts say could be exacerbated by a commodities supply shock. While expectations of an aggressive 50-basis-point hike at the Fed's March meeting have eased, Fed funds futures continue to point to at least six rate hikes this year. [FEDWATCH] All the same, immediate geopolitical threats weighed on U.S. yields on Thursday, pushing the benchmark U.S. 10-year yield down sharply to 1.8681% from its U.S. close of 1.977% on Wednesday. The 2-year yield also fell, to 1.5% from a close of 1.6%. The global flight to safety boosted the dollar, which jumped more than half a percent a basket of other major trading partners to 96.715. The euro was down 0.8% on the day at $1.1220. The Russian rouble turned violently lower after posting small gains early in the session. It was last down nearly 4% on top of a 3% slump against the dollar on Wednesday. The sell-off spread to cryptocurrency markets, pushing bitcoin below $35,000 for the first time in a month. "Markets are now more adequately pricing in the risk of something horrific happening. That combined with the uncertainty is a horrible environment to be in. No one wants risk exposure when that's floating around," said Rob Carnell, head of Asia Pacific research at ING. WATCH | Russia announces military operations in Ukraine as tensions mount to their climax ×

Global market plunges, stocks dive after Vladimir Putin launches military operations in Ukraine

<p>In a surprise televised address on Thursday (February 24), Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a military operation 'to demilitarise Ukraine'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moments after that, a CNN correspondent reported that he heard sounds of explosions from Kharkiv. He later informed citing the Ukrainian interior ministry that explosions near Kyiv were missile strikes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>AFP news agency also reported that explosions were heard in Mariupol, which is in eastern Ukraine. The explosions were heard before dawn Thursday in Ukraine's capital Kyiv and the eastern port city of Mariupol.&nbsp;</p>

<p>AFP correspondents in both cities heard powerful blasts and in Mariupol, close to the frontline and the Russian border, residents reported hearing artillery in the city's eastern suburbs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here's a video of&nbsp;explosions. </strong></p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BREAKING: Explosions in Ukraine's city of Mariupol <a href="https://t.co/57ZZVyx5w2">pic.twitter.com/57ZZVyx5w2</a></p>
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<p>Meanwhile, Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba said in a tweet, "Putin has launched a full-scale war against Ukraine."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Strikes continue on peaceful Ukrainian cities. This is a war of aggression. Ukraine will defend and win. The world can and must stop Putin. It's time to act - just now," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine Representative to Russian Representative at UN emergency meeting said, "Russian President on record declared war...It's the responsibility of this body to stop this war. I call on everyone to stop the war. "Should I play the video of your president calling the war."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia announces military operations in Ukraine as tensions mount to their climax</strong></p>

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In a surprise televised address on Thursday (February 24), Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a military operation 'to demilitarise Ukraine'. Moments after that, a CNN correspondent reported that he heard sounds of explosions from Kharkiv.

In a surprise televised address on Thursday (February 24), Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a military operation 'to demilitarise Ukraine'. Moments after that, a CNN correspondent reported that he heard sounds of explosions from Kharkiv. He later informed citing the Ukrainian interior ministry that explosions near Kyiv were missile strikes. AFP news agency also reported that explosions were heard in Mariupol, which is in eastern Ukraine. The explosions were heard before dawn Thursday in Ukraine's capital Kyiv and the eastern port city of Mariupol. AFP correspondents in both cities heard powerful blasts and in Mariupol, close to the frontline and the Russian border, residents reported hearing artillery in the city's eastern suburbs. Here's a video of explosions. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. BREAKING: Explosions in Ukraine's city of Mariupol pic.twitter.com/57ZZVyx5w2 — The Spectator Index (@spectatorindex) February 24, 2022 × Meanwhile, Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba said in a tweet, "Putin has launched a full-scale war against Ukraine." "Strikes continue on peaceful Ukrainian cities. This is a war of aggression. Ukraine will defend and win. The world can and must stop Putin. It's time to act - just now," he added. Ukraine Representative to Russian Representative at UN emergency meeting said, "Russian President on record declared war...It's the responsibility of this body to stop this war. I call on everyone to stop the war. "Should I play the video of your president calling the war." WATCH | Russia announces military operations in Ukraine as tensions mount to their climax ×

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Explosions reported in Kyiv after Vladimir Putin launches military operations

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<p>Igor Polikha, the ambassador of Ukraine in India said that India should intervene in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi should speak to Russian President Vladimir Putin to halt this invasion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin announced the launch of a military operation against Ukraine on Thursday (February 24) as moments after that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky noted that Russia was attacking the "military infrastructure" and border guards.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-closes-airspace-to-civilian-flights-air-indias-special-flight-returns-mid-air-455945">Ukraine closes airspace to civilian flights, Air India's special flight returns mid-air</a></strong></p>

<p>Seeking an urgent intervention from India, he said, "India is a very influential global player… We are asking for a strong voice of India".</p>

<p>"Modi Ji is one of the most powerful and most respected leaders in the world," he said, adding that India has a "special privilege" and a strategic relationship with Russia and Ukraine is expecting a much more favourable attitude by the Indian government in this crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his address, Polikha also applauded India's history and civilization as he quoted Chanakya and Mahabharat for India's global role in diplomacy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/russia-ukraine-conflict-how-is-india-planning-its-response-considering-indian-students-in-kiev-455987">Russia-Ukraine conflict: How is India planning its response considering Indian students in Kiev</a></strong></p>

<p>He said, "I'm dealing with India from my young student years and I know a lot about your history of diplomacy. You had such bright guys… like Chanakya, or a he is otherwise called, Kautilya, approximately 2500 years back when on the major parts of Europe, there was no civilization."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Weighing in on the conflict, he said that there is fresh information about casualties. They say they are attacking only military facilities, but we have suffered "civilian casualties".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He told the media, "We have the first civilian casualties even on the outskirts of the capital. There's fighting in some areas. According to information from our Ministry of Defence, the Ukrainian side shot down five Russian fighter planes, two helicopters, and destroyed two&nbsp;tanks and several trucks."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Some attacks happened on the outskirts of the capital. Some attacks happened deep inside the territory of Ukraine. We`re getting the first information about casualties among our soldiers and the civilians," he further said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH:&nbsp;Ukraine claims: Downed five Russian planes, Moscow denies</strong></p>

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Igor Polikha, the ambassador of Ukraine in India said that India should intervene in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi should speak to Russian President Vladimir Putin to halt this invasion.

Igor Polikha, the ambassador of Ukraine in India said that India should intervene in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi should speak to Russian President Vladimir Putin to halt this invasion. Putin announced the launch of a military operation against Ukraine on Thursday (February 24) as moments after that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky noted that Russia was attacking the "military infrastructure" and border guards. ALSO READ | Ukraine closes airspace to civilian flights, Air India's special flight returns mid-air Seeking an urgent intervention from India, he said, "India is a very influential global player… We are asking for a strong voice of India". "Modi Ji is one of the most powerful and most respected leaders in the world," he said, adding that India has a "special privilege" and a strategic relationship with Russia and Ukraine is expecting a much more favourable attitude by the Indian government in this crisis. During his address, Polikha also applauded India's history and civilization as he quoted Chanakya and Mahabharat for India's global role in diplomacy. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine conflict: How is India planning its response considering Indian students in Kiev He said, "I'm dealing with India from my young student years and I know a lot about your history of diplomacy. You had such bright guys… like Chanakya, or a he is otherwise called, Kautilya, approximately 2500 years back when on the major parts of Europe, there was no civilization." Weighing in on the conflict, he said that there is fresh information about casualties. They say they are attacking only military facilities, but we have suffered "civilian casualties". He told the media, "We have the first civilian casualties even on the outskirts of the capital. There's fighting in some areas. According to information from our Ministry of Defence, the Ukrainian side shot down five Russian fighter planes, two helicopters, and destroyed two tanks and several trucks." "Some attacks happened on the outskirts of the capital. Some attacks happened deep inside the territory of Ukraine. We`re getting the first information about casualties among our soldiers and the civilians," he further said. WATCH: Ukraine claims: Downed five Russian planes, Moscow denies ×

Ukraine envoy seeks PM Modi's intervention in Russia-Ukraine conflict; cites Chanakya

According to the sources, India is closely monitoring the rapidly changing situation in Ukraine, as the situation continues to escalate near the Ukrainian border after Russia launched its military operations in the Donbas region.

Russia Ukraine Conflict: India closely monitoring situation in Ukraine amid Russian invasion

Ukraine-Russia conflict: First pictures from ground zero

Ukraine urges UN 'to do everything possible to stop the war' at the second emergency Security Council session. WION's Trent Murray brings you more insights.

Russia Ukraine Conflict: Ukraine urges UN to do everything to stop war

The situation in Ukraine has intensified exponentially. Russian President Vladimir Putin has called military operations in Ukraine. Reportedly, loud sound of explosions was heard near Kyiv. Explosions were also reported in the cities of Kharkiv, Mariupol, Mykolaiv and Odessa.

Russia Ukraine Conflict: Series of explosions reported in Ukraine's capital Kyiv, other cities

As Russia announces military action into Ukraine, the country today shut its airspace for all civilian flights. Russia has also closed some airspace to east of Ukraine border.

Russia Ukraine conflict: Ukraine closes its airspace to civilian planes

European Union leaders will impose new sanctions on Russia, freezing its assets, halting access of its banks to the European financial market in reaction to its "barbaric attack" on Ukraine.

Russia Ukraine conflict: EU to launch new sanctions against Russia over attack on Ukraine

<p>While Ukraine bears Russian missile strikes, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin as scheduled.</p>

<p>Amid the ongoing crisis at the Ukraine-Russia border, Khan arrived in Moscow late on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-the-name-of-humanity-un-chiefs-plea-bidens-warning-and-more-leaders-react-to-russian-aggressions-455883">'In the name of humanity': UN Chief's plea, Biden's warning and more; leaders react to Russian aggressions</a></strong></p>

<p>During his ill-timed visit to Russia, the first such trip by a Pakistani PM in 23 years Imran Khan aims to push for the construction of a long-delayed, multibillion-dollar gas pipeline in collaboration with Russian companies.</p>

<p>Vladimir Putin, the Russian&nbsp;premier, will meet with Khan during this visit. The two men are expected to discuss issues regarding economic cooperation.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Prime Minister Imran Khan’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and his entire visit are GOING Ahead as Planned and CONTRARY to what AP has reported, the Meeting is On, per sources. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMIKinRussia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMIKinRussia</a></p>
— Anas Mallick (@AnasMallick) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnasMallick/status/1496750027548602369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Pakistani&nbsp;Federal Minister for Information &amp; Broadcasting also tweeted that "Speculations about PM&nbsp;<br />
@ImranKhanPTI&nbsp;&nbsp;visit are misplaced. The Visit is proceeding and PM will return to Pakistan tonight as per schedule"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Speculations about PM <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a> visit are misplaced. The Visit is proceeding and PM will return to Pakistan tonight as per schedule</p>
— Ch Fawad Hussain (@fawadchaudhry) <a href="https://twitter.com/fawadchaudhry/status/1496766900834951169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Pakistani media reported earlier that Moscow and Islamabad were in talks regarding the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin this year.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-united-states-watches-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-excited-to-meet-vladimir-putin-in-moscow-455824">As United States watches, Pakistan PM Imran Khan 'excited' to meet Vladimir Putin in Moscow</a></strong></p>

<p>According to a Pakistani newspaper, Putin's visit has been discussed for the past two years, but couldn't materialize due to a variety of factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p>Following Russian President Vladimir Putin's announcement&nbsp;of the launch of a military operation against Ukraine on Thursday, several reports emerged that the Russian forces have fired missiles at several cities in Ukraine.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan PM Imran Khan arrives in Moscow to hold talks amid Ukraine crisis</strong></p>

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<p>News agencies also stated that Russia has landed troops on its coast on Thursday, officials and media said, after President Putin authorised what he called a special military operation in the east.&nbsp;</p>

<p>World leaders have condemned the attack, warning&nbsp;that&nbsp;"the world will hold Russia accountable" for its attack against Ukraine, and the&nbsp;"catastrophic loss of life" this attack will cause.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


While Ukraine bears Russian missile strikes, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin as scheduled. Amid the ongoing crisis at the Ukraine-Russia border, Khan arrived in Moscow late on Wednesday.

While Ukraine bears Russian missile strikes, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin as scheduled. Amid the ongoing crisis at the Ukraine-Russia border, Khan arrived in Moscow late on Wednesday. Also read | 'In the name of humanity': UN Chief's plea, Biden's warning and more; leaders react to Russian aggressions During his ill-timed visit to Russia, the first such trip by a Pakistani PM in 23 years Imran Khan aims to push for the construction of a long-delayed, multibillion-dollar gas pipeline in collaboration with Russian companies. Vladimir Putin, the Russian premier, will meet with Khan during this visit. The two men are expected to discuss issues regarding economic cooperation. Prime Minister Imran Khan’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and his entire visit are GOING Ahead as Planned and CONTRARY to what AP has reported, the Meeting is On, per sources. #Pakistan #Russia #PMIKinRussia — Anas Mallick (@AnasMallick) February 24, 2022 × The Pakistani Federal Minister for Information & Broadcasting also tweeted that "Speculations about PM @ImranKhanPTI visit are misplaced. The Visit is proceeding and PM will return to Pakistan tonight as per schedule" Speculations about PM @ImranKhanPTI visit are misplaced. The Visit is proceeding and PM will return to Pakistan tonight as per schedule — Ch Fawad Hussain (@fawadchaudhry) February 24, 2022 × Pakistani media reported earlier that Moscow and Islamabad were in talks regarding the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin this year. Also read | As United States watches, Pakistan PM Imran Khan 'excited' to meet Vladimir Putin in Moscow According to a Pakistani newspaper, Putin's visit has been discussed for the past two years, but couldn't materialize due to a variety of factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Following Russian President Vladimir Putin's announcement of the launch of a military operation against Ukraine on Thursday, several reports emerged that the Russian forces have fired missiles at several cities in Ukraine. Watch | Pakistan PM Imran Khan arrives in Moscow to hold talks amid Ukraine crisis News agencies also stated that Russia has landed troops on its coast on Thursday, officials and media said, after President Putin authorised what he called a special military operation in the east. World leaders have condemned the attack, warning that "the world will hold Russia accountable" for its attack against Ukraine, and the "catastrophic loss of life" this attack will cause. (With inputs from agencies)

Even amid Russian 'military operation' on Ukraine, Imran Khan-Vladimir Putin meet to go ahead as planned

US President Joe Biden slammed Russia over its unprovoked attack on Ukraine late and said that the world will hold Russia accountable. WION speaks to International Affairs Expert Kadira Pethiyagoda for more perspective.

Russia Ukraine conflict: World will hold Russia accountable for attack on Ukraine, says US Prez Joe Biden

<p>After Russia fired missiles at several Ukrainian cities and landed troops on the south coast, the ruble plunged to a record low on Thursday, while the euro plunged to a multi-year low against the Swiss franc.</p>

<p>In addition, riskier commodity-linked currencies like the Australian dollar also tanked as Ukraine said Russia had launched a full-scale invasion.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-the-name-of-humanity-un-chiefs-plea-bidens-warning-and-more-leaders-react-to-russian-aggressions-455883">'In the name of humanity': UN Chief's plea, Biden's warning and more; leaders react to Russian aggressions</a></strong></p>

<p>The dollar rose nine per cent against the ruble, which has been battered lately in the wake of worries about the effects of the sanctions on the Russian economy, while the Moscow Stock Exchange plunged almost 14 per cent after trading was suspended earlier in the day. The country's central bank said it was intervening to "stabilise the situation".</p>

<p>"To stabilise the situation on the financial market, the Bank of Russia has decided to start interventions in the foreign exchange market," the central bank said in a statement, adding that it and other financial institutions: "have clear action plans for any scenario."</p>

<p>While explosions were reported in the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv and gunfire was heard near Kyiv's main airport, safe havens such as the yen and dollar were in demand.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-russia-conflict-first-pictures-455872">Ukraine-Russia conflict: First pictures</a></strong></p>

<p>With a fall of 0.84 per cent to $1.1209, the euro reached its lowest level since January 31.</p>

<p>Euro depreciated as much as 1.28 per cent versus other traditional haven currencies, hitting a nearly one-month low of 128.37 yen and as much as 0.84 per cent versus the Swiss franc, which reached 1.0292, the weakest since May 2015.</p>

<p>There was a 0.90 per cent drop in the Australian dollar to $0.7167, while the New Zealand dollar declined by 1.00 per cent to $0.6706.</p>

<p>"The situation certainly looks like it's going to get worse before it gets better, and that means the commodity currencies can weaken," said Joseph Capurso, a strategist at Commonwealth Bank of Australia.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia: Military infrastructure being disabled in Ukraine, no threat to Ukrainian civilians</strong></p>

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<p>"If things get real bad," Aussie could test $0.70, and if the euro is poised to fall "quite a bit more," he said.</p>

<p>Sterling was a bit more resilient, declining 0.41 per cent to $1.3490, the lowest since February 15.</p>

<p>For the first time since January 31, the US dollar index, which measures the greenback against six major peers, rose as much as 0.60 per cent to 96.762.</p>

<p>Besides its status as a safe haven, the dollar has also been boosted by expectations that the Federal Reserve will begin raising rates next month, although the rising risk related to Ukraine forced traders to lower their expectations from 25 per cent earlier in the day to 16 per cent.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After Russia fired missiles at several Ukrainian cities and landed troops on the south coast, the ruble plunged to a record low on Thursday, while the euro plunged to a multi-year low against the Swiss franc.

After Russia fired missiles at several Ukrainian cities and landed troops on the south coast, the ruble plunged to a record low on Thursday, while the euro plunged to a multi-year low against the Swiss franc. In addition, riskier commodity-linked currencies like the Australian dollar also tanked as Ukraine said Russia had launched a full-scale invasion. Also read | 'In the name of humanity': UN Chief's plea, Biden's warning and more; leaders react to Russian aggressions The dollar rose nine per cent against the ruble, which has been battered lately in the wake of worries about the effects of the sanctions on the Russian economy, while the Moscow Stock Exchange plunged almost 14 per cent after trading was suspended earlier in the day. The country's central bank said it was intervening to "stabilise the situation". "To stabilise the situation on the financial market, the Bank of Russia has decided to start interventions in the foreign exchange market," the central bank said in a statement, adding that it and other financial institutions: "have clear action plans for any scenario." While explosions were reported in the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv and gunfire was heard near Kyiv's main airport, safe havens such as the yen and dollar were in demand. Also read | Ukraine-Russia conflict: First pictures With a fall of 0.84 per cent to $1.1209, the euro reached its lowest level since January 31. Euro depreciated as much as 1.28 per cent versus other traditional haven currencies, hitting a nearly one-month low of 128.37 yen and as much as 0.84 per cent versus the Swiss franc, which reached 1.0292, the weakest since May 2015. There was a 0.90 per cent drop in the Australian dollar to $0.7167, while the New Zealand dollar declined by 1.00 per cent to $0.6706. "The situation certainly looks like it's going to get worse before it gets better, and that means the commodity currencies can weaken," said Joseph Capurso, a strategist at Commonwealth Bank of Australia. Watch | Russia: Military infrastructure being disabled in Ukraine, no threat to Ukrainian civilians "If things get real bad," Aussie could test $0.70, and if the euro is poised to fall "quite a bit more," he said. Sterling was a bit more resilient, declining 0.41 per cent to $1.3490, the lowest since February 15. For the first time since January 31, the US dollar index, which measures the greenback against six major peers, rose as much as 0.60 per cent to 96.762. Besides its status as a safe haven, the dollar has also been boosted by expectations that the Federal Reserve will begin raising rates next month, although the rising risk related to Ukraine forced traders to lower their expectations from 25 per cent earlier in the day to 16 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

As Russia fires missiles at Ukraine, its currency ruble falls 9% against dollar

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="3">Toomas Hendrik Ilves, former Estonian president, believes that the current round of economic sanctions announced by the Biden administration will have little to no impact on Russian President Vladimir Putin.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="4">Speaking exclusively to WION on Wednesday, Ilves said, "The ones (sanctions) announced now are pointless since they are directed towards the common people of DNR (Donetsk) and LNR (Lugansk). The real sanctions that bite would affect the oligarchs and the people in power. "</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="5">"The entire Russian leadership has massive amounts of money stored in the West. And why is there money stored there? Because they don’t even trust their country’s rule of law, "he added.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="6">He said that sanctions would have an effect only if they were directed towards the elite responsible for the current situation.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="7">"All of their holdings in the West should be frozen as of this moment," he added.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="8">US President Joe Biden on Tuesday announced new economic sanctions in response to Putin's recognising two breakaway regions in eastern Ukraine—Donetsk and Lugansk—as "independent".</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="9">He signed an executive order to "prohibit new investment, trade, and financing by US persons to, from, or in the so-called DNR and LNR regions of Ukraine," an abbreviated reference to Donetsk and Lugansk.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="10">Even though the US and a handful of countries in Europe warned of more sanctions in the event of Ukraine's invasion, many countries in the region have kept mum.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="11">So far, Italy and Germany have not indicated what kind of action they would take in the event of such a possibility.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="12">Even though Germany froze a new gas pipeline that it shares with Russia, Ilves asserts that Berlin has not taken any effective action that could harm the elites in Russia.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="13">"So far, Italy and Germany have said no sanctions on energy or on cutting off SWIFT (a messaging network used by banks and other&nbsp;financial institutions&nbsp;to quickly, accurately, and securely send and receive information, such as money transfer instructions). The&nbsp;issue here is whether Italy and Germany have the courage to issue sanctions on the oligarchs and the leadership that have property in their territory. I suspect that within the EU, there will be quite a bit of a debate over these issues in the next few days, "he said.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="14">When he was asked whether the aim to expand&nbsp;NATO by allowing Ukraine to join the alliance led to the current escalation, the former president said, "This is a complete canard."</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="15">"NATO has no desire to expand itself. The question is whether it is open to accepting countries or not, and why do these countries want to join NATO? NATO has no urge to expand; it will expand when countries fulfil its requirements. For example, holding free elections and upholding democratic principles, "he said.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="16">In his recent speech, Russia's Putin emphasised reviving the law of "Soviet glory." When he was asked whether Estonia would consider joining the Soviet Union, he said, "It would be if we were in the position of Ukraine, which is outside the EU and NATO."</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="17">The difference is that in the 1990s, we undertook difficult, and often painful, reforms that allowed us to join the EU and NATO. So, we do feel threatened, but once you are in NATO, you feel much more secure. "</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="17"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Estonia's Ex-President speaks to WION: How will Putin's moves in Ukraine affect European security?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/estonias-ex-president-speaks-to-wion-how-will-putins-moves-in-ukraine-affect-european-security-455648/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


Toomas Hendrik Ilves, former Estonian president, believes that the current round of economic sanctions announced by the Biden administration will have little to no impact on Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Toomas Hendrik Ilves, former Estonian president, believes that the current round of economic sanctions announced by the Biden administration will have little to no impact on Russian President Vladimir Putin. Speaking exclusively to WION on Wednesday, Ilves said, "The ones (sanctions) announced now are pointless since they are directed towards the common people of DNR (Donetsk) and LNR (Lugansk). The real sanctions that bite would affect the oligarchs and the people in power. " "The entire Russian leadership has massive amounts of money stored in the West. And why is there money stored there? Because they don’t even trust their country’s rule of law, "he added. He said that sanctions would have an effect only if they were directed towards the elite responsible for the current situation. "All of their holdings in the West should be frozen as of this moment," he added. US President Joe Biden on Tuesday announced new economic sanctions in response to Putin's recognising two breakaway regions in eastern Ukraine—Donetsk and Lugansk—as "independent". He signed an executive order to "prohibit new investment, trade, and financing by US persons to, from, or in the so-called DNR and LNR regions of Ukraine," an abbreviated reference to Donetsk and Lugansk. Even though the US and a handful of countries in Europe warned of more sanctions in the event of Ukraine's invasion, many countries in the region have kept mum. So far, Italy and Germany have not indicated what kind of action they would take in the event of such a possibility. Even though Germany froze a new gas pipeline that it shares with Russia, Ilves asserts that Berlin has not taken any effective action that could harm the elites in Russia. "So far, Italy and Germany have said no sanctions on energy or on cutting off SWIFT (a messaging network used by banks and other financial institutions to quickly, accurately, and securely send and receive information, such as money transfer instructions). The issue here is whether Italy and Germany have the courage to issue sanctions on the oligarchs and the leadership that have property in their territory. I suspect that within the EU, there will be quite a bit of a debate over these issues in the next few days, "he said. When he was asked whether the aim to expand NATO by allowing Ukraine to join the alliance led to the current escalation, the former president said, "This is a complete canard." "NATO has no desire to expand itself. The question is whether it is open to accepting countries or not, and why do these countries want to join NATO? NATO has no urge to expand; it will expand when countries fulfil its requirements. For example, holding free elections and upholding democratic principles, "he said. In his recent speech, Russia's Putin emphasised reviving the law of "Soviet glory." When he was asked whether Estonia would consider joining the Soviet Union, he said, "It would be if we were in the position of Ukraine, which is outside the EU and NATO." The difference is that in the 1990s, we undertook difficult, and often painful, reforms that allowed us to join the EU and NATO. So, we do feel threatened, but once you are in NATO, you feel much more secure. " Watch | Estonia's Ex-President speaks to WION: How will Putin's moves in Ukraine affect European security?

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