The Ukrainian prosecutor general said at least 51&nbsp;people were killed, including a six-year-old boy, in a Russian strike on Thursday (Oct 5) in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said&nbsp;on the messaging app Telegram that Russia targeted a grocery store, describing the attack as a "brutal Russian crime".&nbsp;

Zelensky said the strike had slammed into the Kupiansk district, which borders Russia. In the war-battered region, Russian forces have been pushing to recapture territory they lost last year to Ukrainian troops.&nbsp;

In a statement on social media, Zelensky said: "The brutal Russian crime of hitting an ordinary grocery store with a rocket is a completely deliberate terrorist attack."&nbsp;

Zelensky posted an image of a woman kneeling over the body of someone apparently killed in the strike, with other corpses strewn around her, while rescue workers worked nearby.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-set-up-naval-base-in-breakaway-georgian-region-of-abkhazia-642924">Russia to set up naval base in breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine conflict kills 10,000 civilians, deaths in Ukraine rises this year&nbsp;

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BREAKING: Russia has reportedly carried out an artillery strike of a grocery store in the village of Grozna in the Kupiansk district of Ukraine, killing at least 48 people (all or mostly all civilians). 
 
- At least one child was killed and 47 others. 
 
- “Rescuers continue to… <a href="https://t.co/thyq9yEoWi">pic.twitter.com/thyq9yEoWi</a>
— Brian Krassenstein (@krassenstein) <a href="https://twitter.com/krassenstein/status/1709924131288805833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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An official said that the victims were gathered for a wake. "It was a wake for a fellow villager who died," Interior Minister Igor Klymenko was quoted as saying by the Interfax Ukraine news agency.&nbsp;

Kharkiv region governor Oleh Synehubov said that a cafe and a shop had been attacked at around 13:15 (10:15 GMT) in the village of Hroza in the Kupyansk district of Kharkiv and that many civilians had been there at the time.&nbsp;

Synehubov said on the Telegram messaging app, "The rescuers continue to work on the site."&nbsp;

The village is around 30 kilometres west of Kupiansk, a frontline town. It s estimated to have had a pre-war population of around 500 people.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;

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The Ukrainian prosecutor general said at least 51 people were killed, including a six-year-old boy, in a Russian strike on Thursday (Oct 5) in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on the messaging app Telegram that Russia targeted a grocery store, describing the attack as a "brutal Russian crime".

The Ukrainian prosecutor general said at least 51 people were killed, including a six-year-old boy, in a Russian strike on Thursday (Oct 5) in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on the messaging app Telegram that Russia targeted a grocery store, describing the attack as a "brutal Russian crime". Zelensky said the strike had slammed into the Kupiansk district, which borders Russia. In the war-battered region, Russian forces have been pushing to recapture territory they lost last year to Ukrainian troops. In a statement on social media, Zelensky said: "The brutal Russian crime of hitting an ordinary grocery store with a rocket is a completely deliberate terrorist attack." Zelensky posted an image of a woman kneeling over the body of someone apparently killed in the strike, with other corpses strewn around her, while rescue workers worked nearby. Also read: Russia to set up naval base in breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia Watch: Ukraine conflict kills 10,000 civilians, deaths in Ukraine rises this year × Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. BREAKING: Russia has reportedly carried out an artillery strike of a grocery store in the village of Grozna in the Kupiansk district of Ukraine, killing at least 48 people (all or mostly all civilians). - At least one child was killed and 47 others. - “Rescuers continue to… pic.twitter.com/thyq9yEoWi — Brian Krassenstein (@krassenstein) October 5, 2023 × Also read: Russia says no plans for additional mobilisation to fight in Ukraine, 335,000 signed up so far this year An official said that the victims were gathered for a wake. "It was a wake for a fellow villager who died," Interior Minister Igor Klymenko was quoted as saying by the Interfax Ukraine news agency. Kharkiv region governor Oleh Synehubov said that a cafe and a shop had been attacked at around 13:15 (10:15 GMT) in the village of Hroza in the Kupyansk district of Kharkiv and that many civilians had been there at the time. Synehubov said on the Telegram messaging app, "The rescuers continue to work on the site." The village is around 30 kilometres west of Kupiansk, a frontline town. It s estimated to have had a pre-war population of around 500 people. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Zelensky alleges 'brutal Russian crime' in Ukraine after at least 51 killed in strike

Ukraine's public prosecutor, in collaboration with human rights lawyers, will soon submit a damning war crimes dossier against Russia to the International Criminal Court (ICC).&nbsp;

This dossier, as per The Guardian report, alleges that Moscow deliberately caused starvation during the ongoing 18-month Ukraine-Russia war.

<h2>Document to unveil war crime</h2>

Law firm Global Rights Compliance is compiling what is expected to be a meticulous document that will unveil instances where the Russian forces deployed hunger as a weapon of warfare.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-fm-says-bid-to-revive-black-sea-grain-deal-not-realistic-accuses-west-of-direct-fighting-in-ukraine-639004">Russian FM says bid to revive Black Sea grain deal 'not realistic', accuses West of direct fighting in Ukraine</a>

The document, as per The Guardian, will supply the ICC with compelling evidence that could pave the way for an unprecedented prosecution, potentially implicating Russian President Vladimir Putin himself.

As per Yousuf Khan, a lawyer with the law firm Global Rights Compliance, "The weaponisation of food has taken place in three phases."

<h2>The three phases of starving Ukraine</h2>

Phase 1: Khan claims that the initial phase started at the beginning of the invasion, during which Ukrainian cities were besieged, and food supplies were cut.

As per Khan, their investigation is also focusing on the siege of Mariupol, where food supplies were cut to the city. The document also alleges that humanitarian relief corridors were blocked or bombed to make it impossible for desperate, starving Ukrainians to escape.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-wagner-commander-arrested-in-norway-for-trying-to-cross-border-back-into-russia-illegally-638968">Former Wagner commander arrested in Norway for trying to cross border into Russia illegally</a>

Phase 2: In the second phase, a deliberate destruction of food and water supplies and energy sources took place during the fighting.

These objects were described by Khan as "indispensable to the survival of the civilian population." Khan, as per the report, argues that these attacks were "not crimes of result but crimes of intent".

He says, "If you are taking out objects that civilians need, like energy infrastructure in the dead of winter, there is a foreseeability to your actions."

Phase 3: Prevention or restriction of Ukrainian food exports.

"We've seen Russia attack grain facilities on the Danube and engage in muscle flexing on the Black Sea," says Khan.

The two nations have a history of such crimes. According to the Guardian, in 1932-33, the Joseph Stalin Soviet government engineered a famine that killed millions in Ukraine. This came to be known as the Holodomor, or the Great Ukrainian Famine.

In 2018, a UN Security Council resolution condemned the use of starvation as a weapon of war. &nbsp;

"Putin could bear responsibility for having committed the acts directly, jointly with others and/or through others," says the Lawyer.

Over the years, starvation as a war strategy has been used by many. Recent examples include Syria and Tigray, Ethiopia.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine's public prosecutor, in collaboration with human rights lawyers, will soon submit a damning war crimes dossier against Russia to the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Ukraine's public prosecutor, in collaboration with human rights lawyers, will soon submit a damning war crimes dossier against Russia to the International Criminal Court (ICC). This dossier, as per The Guardian report, alleges that Moscow deliberately caused starvation during the ongoing 18-month Ukraine-Russia war. Document to unveil war crime Law firm Global Rights Compliance is compiling what is expected to be a meticulous document that will unveil instances where the Russian forces deployed hunger as a weapon of warfare. Also read | Russian FM says bid to revive Black Sea grain deal 'not realistic', accuses West of direct fighting in Ukraine The document, as per The Guardian, will supply the ICC with compelling evidence that could pave the way for an unprecedented prosecution, potentially implicating Russian President Vladimir Putin himself. As per Yousuf Khan, a lawyer with the law firm Global Rights Compliance, "The weaponisation of food has taken place in three phases." The three phases of starving Ukraine Phase 1: Khan claims that the initial phase started at the beginning of the invasion, during which Ukrainian cities were besieged, and food supplies were cut. As per Khan, their investigation is also focusing on the siege of Mariupol, where food supplies were cut to the city. The document also alleges that humanitarian relief corridors were blocked or bombed to make it impossible for desperate, starving Ukrainians to escape. Also read | Former Wagner commander arrested in Norway for trying to cross border into Russia illegally Phase 2: In the second phase, a deliberate destruction of food and water supplies and energy sources took place during the fighting. These objects were described by Khan as "indispensable to the survival of the civilian population." Khan, as per the report, argues that these attacks were "not crimes of result but crimes of intent". He says, "If you are taking out objects that civilians need, like energy infrastructure in the dead of winter, there is a foreseeability to your actions." Phase 3: Prevention or restriction of Ukrainian food exports. "We've seen Russia attack grain facilities on the Danube and engage in muscle flexing on the Black Sea," says Khan. The two nations have a history of such crimes. According to the Guardian, in 1932-33, the Joseph Stalin Soviet government engineered a famine that killed millions in Ukraine. This came to be known as the Holodomor, or the Great Ukrainian Famine. In 2018, a UN Security Council resolution condemned the use of starvation as a weapon of war. "Putin could bear responsibility for having committed the acts directly, jointly with others and/or through others," says the Lawyer. Over the years, starvation as a war strategy has been used by many. Recent examples include Syria and Tigray, Ethiopia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Did Russia intentionally starve Ukraine? New war crime dossier to the ICC to provide damning evidence

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, met with his close ally, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, on Friday (September 22), and thanked him for his constant support to Kyiv.

Zelensky, who is on his tour to strengthen international backing for his country's struggle to repel a fierce Russian invasion, landed in the capital city of Ottawa late on Thursday (September 21).

Canada, which is a staunch supporter of Kyiv and also home to the world's second-largest Ukrainian diaspora, is set to announce that it is sending more weapons to Ukraine during Zelensky's visit, as per a government official.

Ahead of a bilateral meeting in the Canadian PM's office, Trudeau told Zelensky the visit was "an opportunity for Canadians to express directly to Volodymyr and through him to the Ukrainian people how strongly and unequivocally we stand with Ukraine".

In return, Zelensky said he had "a lot of warm words and thanks" from Ukraine for the military and humanitarian aid Canada had supplied.

Zelensky is scheduled to address parliament in Ottawa at 1 p.m. ET (1700 GMT) and then hold a news conference with Trudeau at 2:45 p.m. ET (1845 GMT) before flying to Toronto to meet business leaders and then address a rally.

Zelensky, during his visit to parliament, thanked Ottawa for its constant support to Canada since the Russian invasion.

"Thank you for your support. You've been with us from the first days of the full-scale war" and "I hope that you stay with us to our victory," Zelensky said after chatting with a senator of Ukrainian descent who came wearing her grandmother's traditional garb.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-interim-pm-anwaar-ul-haq-kakar-raises-jammu-and-kashmir-issue-during-unga-address-638680">Pakistan's interim PM raises Jammu and Kashmir issue during UNGA address</a>

Earlier, the Ukrainian leader had released a statement saying that he would be talking to the Canadian PM about defence cooperation, and would also sign treaties to strengthen economic ties.

<h2>Zelensky meets Biden, gets aid package</h2>

On Thursday (September 21), Zelensky met US President Joe Biden at the White House and managed to win pledges of unstinting support and air defence weapons from the latter, but also issued a warning that Kyiv might get tipped over by Russians if the Republicans continue to oppose military aid.

Speaking at the Oval Office at the start of talks, Biden said the US remains committed to providing support in Kyiv’s efforts to defend itself against Russia’s invasion.

"We're supporting a just and lasting peace, one that respects Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity," said Biden.&nbsp;

Zelensky returned the favour by saying: "We greatly appreciate the assistance provided by the United States to combat Russian terror, really terror."

Afterwards, Biden formally announced a military aid package worth $325 million that includes air defence systems and the second tranche of cluster munitions fired by a 155-millimeter Howitzer cannon. Additionally, the president informed that the first US M1 Abrams tanks will arrive in Ukraine "next week".&nbsp;

"Next week, the first US Abrams tanks will be delivered in Ukraine," Biden said.&nbsp;

However, the White House announced there was no deal to provide the long-range missiles that Zelensky wanted desperately for his troops.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, met with his close ally, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, on Friday (September 22), and thanked him for his constant support to Kyiv.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, met with his close ally, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, on Friday (September 22), and thanked him for his constant support to Kyiv. Zelensky, who is on his tour to strengthen international backing for his country's struggle to repel a fierce Russian invasion, landed in the capital city of Ottawa late on Thursday (September 21). Canada, which is a staunch supporter of Kyiv and also home to the world's second-largest Ukrainian diaspora, is set to announce that it is sending more weapons to Ukraine during Zelensky's visit, as per a government official. Ahead of a bilateral meeting in the Canadian PM's office, Trudeau told Zelensky the visit was "an opportunity for Canadians to express directly to Volodymyr and through him to the Ukrainian people how strongly and unequivocally we stand with Ukraine". In return, Zelensky said he had "a lot of warm words and thanks" from Ukraine for the military and humanitarian aid Canada had supplied. Zelensky is scheduled to address parliament in Ottawa at 1 p.m. ET (1700 GMT) and then hold a news conference with Trudeau at 2:45 p.m. ET (1845 GMT) before flying to Toronto to meet business leaders and then address a rally. Zelensky, during his visit to parliament, thanked Ottawa for its constant support to Canada since the Russian invasion. "Thank you for your support. You've been with us from the first days of the full-scale war" and "I hope that you stay with us to our victory," Zelensky said after chatting with a senator of Ukrainian descent who came wearing her grandmother's traditional garb. Also read: Pakistan's interim PM raises Jammu and Kashmir issue during UNGA address Earlier, the Ukrainian leader had released a statement saying that he would be talking to the Canadian PM about defence cooperation, and would also sign treaties to strengthen economic ties. Zelensky meets Biden, gets aid package On Thursday (September 21), Zelensky met US President Joe Biden at the White House and managed to win pledges of unstinting support and air defence weapons from the latter, but also issued a warning that Kyiv might get tipped over by Russians if the Republicans continue to oppose military aid. Speaking at the Oval Office at the start of talks, Biden said the US remains committed to providing support in Kyiv’s efforts to defend itself against Russia’s invasion. "We're supporting a just and lasting peace, one that respects Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity," said Biden. Zelensky returned the favour by saying: "We greatly appreciate the assistance provided by the United States to combat Russian terror, really terror." Afterwards, Biden formally announced a military aid package worth $325 million that includes air defence systems and the second tranche of cluster munitions fired by a 155-millimeter Howitzer cannon. Additionally, the president informed that the first US M1 Abrams tanks will arrive in Ukraine "next week". "Next week, the first US Abrams tanks will be delivered in Ukraine," Biden said. However, the White House announced there was no deal to provide the long-range missiles that Zelensky wanted desperately for his troops. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukrainian President Zelensky visits Canada, thanks Prime Minister Trudeau for support

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met US President Joe Biden on Thursday (September 21) at the White House and managed to win pledges of unstinting support and air defence weapons from the latter, but also issued a warning that Kyiv might get tipped over by Russians if the Republicans continue to oppose military aid.

Speaking at the Oval Office at the start of talks, Biden said the US remains&nbsp;committed to providing support in Kyiv’s efforts to defend itself against Russia’s invasion.

"We're supporting a just and lasting peace, one that respects Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity," said Biden.&nbsp;

Zelensky returned the favour by saying:&nbsp;"We greatly appreciate the assistance provided by the United States to combat Russian terror, really terror."

Afterwards, Biden formally announced&nbsp;a military aid package worth $325 million that includes&nbsp;air defence systems and the second tranche of cluster munitions fired by a 155-millimeter Howitzer cannon. Additionally, the president informed that the first&nbsp;US M1 Abrams tanks will arrive in Ukraine "next week".&nbsp;

"Next week, the first US Abrams tanks will be delivered in Ukraine," Biden said.&nbsp;

However, the White House announced there was no deal to provide the&nbsp;long-range missiles that Zelensky wanted desperately for his troops.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian prez had marched across the Capitol and the White House after delivering addresses at the UNGA and UNSC to secure the&nbsp;ATACMS missiles that can strike up to 300 kilometres (190 miles) away.

"To date, he [Biden]&nbsp;is determined that he would not provide ATACMS, but he has also not taken it off the table in the future," said&nbsp;National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/poland-fumes-over-ukrainian-presidents-volodymyr-zelenskys-un-speech-638068">Watch |&nbsp;Poland fumes over Ukrainian president's Volodymyr Zelensky's UN speech</a>

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<h2>Zelensky's disappointment&nbsp;</h2>

Despite launching a counteroffensive, Ukraine under Zelensky has made little to no inroads. His visit to Washington was an attempt to regroup and secure military funding for another round of defence.&nbsp;

However, signs were there that Zelensky's second visit to Washington was not being as hotly anticipated by the lawmakers as it was the last time. The Ukrainian prez was denied an opportunity to address the joint session of US Congress, with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said to be behind the decision.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-denied-request-to-address-joint-session-of-us-congress-638354">Also read |&nbsp;Ukraine's Zelensky denied request to address joint session of US Congress</a>

Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer who has been a major supporter of Biden's pro-Ukraine policies said, Zelensky told him that:&nbsp;"If we don't get the aid, we will lose the war."

The Republicans, ahead of the 2024 polls, are increasingly adamant that the billions of dollars in aid to Ukraine be shut down. So far, the US Congress has already sent $100 billion in aid to date to Kyiv, including $43 billion in weaponry. The GOP lawmakers are of the view that money sent to Ukraine can be better used to shore up the country's borders in the southern region.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met US President Joe Biden on Thursday (September 21) at the White House and managed to win pledges of unstinting support and air defence weapons from the latter, but also issued a warning that Kyiv might get tipped over by Russians if the Republicans continue to oppose military aid.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met US President Joe Biden on Thursday (September 21) at the White House and managed to win pledges of unstinting support and air defence weapons from the latter, but also issued a warning that Kyiv might get tipped over by Russians if the Republicans continue to oppose military aid. Speaking at the Oval Office at the start of talks, Biden said the US remains committed to providing support in Kyiv’s efforts to defend itself against Russia’s invasion. "We're supporting a just and lasting peace, one that respects Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity," said Biden. Zelensky returned the favour by saying: "We greatly appreciate the assistance provided by the United States to combat Russian terror, really terror." Afterwards, Biden formally announced a military aid package worth $325 million that includes air defence systems and the second tranche of cluster munitions fired by a 155-millimeter Howitzer cannon. Additionally, the president informed that the first US M1 Abrams tanks will arrive in Ukraine "next week". "Next week, the first US Abrams tanks will be delivered in Ukraine," Biden said. However, the White House announced there was no deal to provide the long-range missiles that Zelensky wanted desperately for his troops. The Ukrainian prez had marched across the Capitol and the White House after delivering addresses at the UNGA and UNSC to secure the ATACMS missiles that can strike up to 300 kilometres (190 miles) away. "To date, he [Biden] is determined that he would not provide ATACMS, but he has also not taken it off the table in the future," said National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan. Watch | Poland fumes over Ukrainian president's Volodymyr Zelensky's UN speech × Zelensky's disappointment Despite launching a counteroffensive, Ukraine under Zelensky has made little to no inroads. His visit to Washington was an attempt to regroup and secure military funding for another round of defence. However, signs were there that Zelensky's second visit to Washington was not being as hotly anticipated by the lawmakers as it was the last time. The Ukrainian prez was denied an opportunity to address the joint session of US Congress, with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said to be behind the decision. Also read | Ukraine's Zelensky denied request to address joint session of US Congress Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer who has been a major supporter of Biden's pro-Ukraine policies said, Zelensky told him that: "If we don't get the aid, we will lose the war." The Republicans, ahead of the 2024 polls, are increasingly adamant that the billions of dollars in aid to Ukraine be shut down. So far, the US Congress has already sent $100 billion in aid to date to Kyiv, including $43 billion in weaponry. The GOP lawmakers are of the view that money sent to Ukraine can be better used to shore up the country's borders in the southern region. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Zelensky meets Biden, gets aid package but warns Kyiv could lose war with Russia if funding is cut

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is on a visit to the United States looking to shore up support and secure additional funding for his war-torn nation, was apparently denied the request to address a joint session of the US Congress.

Speaking to the press, US House speaker Kevin McCarthy on Thursday revealed that "Zelensky asked for a joint session, we just didn't have time. He's already given a joint session."

<h2>Zelensky in US</h2>

The Ukrainian President is currently in the US, looking to shore up international support. His visit features multiple stops — Congress, the Pentagon and finally a meeting with Joe Biden.

Reuters reports that while Biden and most congressional leaders still support aid to Ukraine, Republican sceptics are questioning whether Congress should support a fresh round of aid for Kyiv.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-no-longer-arming-war-torn-ukraine-amid-grain-deal-row-638229">Poland no longer arming war-torn Ukraine amid grain deal row</a>

Republicans in recent days have grown increasingly adamant and are pushing for the aid to be turned off, reports AFP.

This comes as, on Thursday, Poland announced that it will no longer arm Ukraine in a mounting row over grain exports. The nation, however, clarified that it would fulfil existing arms supply deals.

<h2>US aid and the Ukraine war</h2>

Throughout the more than a year long Russia-Ukraine war, the United States as per AFP has spearheaded Western support for war-torn Ukraine. To date, the Congress has approved more than $100 billion in aid for Ukraine. This includes $43 billion in arms and weaponry.

President Joe Biden has resolutely pledged to stand by Kyiv 'no matter what,' this, as per AFP, is being used in his re-election campaign as a proof of his global leadership.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-it-shot-19-ukrainian-drones-over-crimea-black-sea-638044">Russia claims it shot down 19 Ukrainian drones over Crimea, Black Sea</a>

Speaking at the UN on Tuesday, Biden also warned against abandoning Ukraine and said: "Russia believes that the world will grow weary and allow it to brutalise Ukraine without consequence."

The Ukrainian leader last visited Washington in December to meet President Biden. During that visit, he&nbsp;also held a press conference at the White House and addressed a joint session of the US Congress.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is on a visit to the United States looking to shore up support and secure additional funding for his war-torn nation, was apparently denied the request to address a joint session of the US Congress.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is on a visit to the United States looking to shore up support and secure additional funding for his war-torn nation, was apparently denied the request to address a joint session of the US Congress. Speaking to the press, US House speaker Kevin McCarthy on Thursday revealed that "Zelensky asked for a joint session, we just didn't have time. He's already given a joint session." Zelensky in US The Ukrainian President is currently in the US, looking to shore up international support. His visit features multiple stops — Congress, the Pentagon and finally a meeting with Joe Biden. Reuters reports that while Biden and most congressional leaders still support aid to Ukraine, Republican sceptics are questioning whether Congress should support a fresh round of aid for Kyiv. Also read | Poland no longer arming war-torn Ukraine amid grain deal row Republicans in recent days have grown increasingly adamant and are pushing for the aid to be turned off, reports AFP. This comes as, on Thursday, Poland announced that it will no longer arm Ukraine in a mounting row over grain exports. The nation, however, clarified that it would fulfil existing arms supply deals. US aid and the Ukraine war Throughout the more than a year long Russia-Ukraine war, the United States as per AFP has spearheaded Western support for war-torn Ukraine. To date, the Congress has approved more than $100 billion in aid for Ukraine. This includes $43 billion in arms and weaponry. President Joe Biden has resolutely pledged to stand by Kyiv 'no matter what,' this, as per AFP, is being used in his re-election campaign as a proof of his global leadership. Also read | Russia claims it shot down 19 Ukrainian drones over Crimea, Black Sea Speaking at the UN on Tuesday, Biden also warned against abandoning Ukraine and said: "Russia believes that the world will grow weary and allow it to brutalise Ukraine without consequence." The Ukrainian leader last visited Washington in December to meet President Biden. During that visit, he also held a press conference at the White House and addressed a joint session of the US Congress. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine's Zelensky denied request to address joint session of US Congress

The United Kingdom on Monday accused the Russian military of targeting a civilian cargo ship in the Black Sea with "multiple missiles". The attack reportedly happened last month, on August 24th.

Citing intelligence reports, Britain said the missiles were successfully intercepted by Ukrainian forces.

<h2>The attack</h2>

The information was revealed by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in Britain's parliament during an update on the G20 summit he attended in New Delhi.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-to-regain-black-sea-oil-platforms-control-634881">Ukraine claims it regained control of oil platform in Black Sea</a>

Sunak's comments, as per Reuters, are the first time an official has commented on a ship being targeted since Ukraine began efforts to allow vessels stranded in the Odesa port since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war.

"Thanks to declassified intelligence, we know the Russian military targeted a civilian cargo ship in the Black Sea with multiple missiles on the 24th of August," said Sunak.

As per the intelligence, as quoted by AFP, the intended target was a Liberian-flagged cargo ship berthed in port.

Russia reportedly fired two "Kalibr" missiles from a Black Sea Fleet missile carrier, towards the southern Ukrainian port of Odessa.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-raises-red-flag-says-us-nukes-return-to-uk-soil-will-trigger-escalation-632701">Russia raises red flag, says US nukes' return to UK soil a 'step towards escalation'</a>

"Despite its failure, this is a clear demonstration of Russia's continuing attempts to choke Ukraine's economy,"&nbsp;the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said in a statement.

<h2>An unwinnable war</h2>

"Putin is trying to win a war he will not win, and these attacks show just how desperate he is," said Foreign Secretary James Cleverly in a statement.

"In targeting cargo ships and Ukrainian infrastructure, Russia is hurting the rest of the world," he added.

Russia has been accused by Ukraine of targeting civilian vessels ever since Moscow in July quit a UN-brokered deal that allowed Kyiv to safely export its grains via the Black Sea. Back then, the UK and the US had both warned that Russia might expand its targeting of Ukrainian grain facilities to include attacks on civilian shipping in the Black Sea.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United Kingdom on Monday accused the Russian military of targeting a civilian cargo ship in the Black Sea with "multiple missiles". The attack reportedly happened last month, on August 24th.

The United Kingdom on Monday accused the Russian military of targeting a civilian cargo ship in the Black Sea with "multiple missiles". The attack reportedly happened last month, on August 24th. Citing intelligence reports, Britain said the missiles were successfully intercepted by Ukrainian forces. The attack The information was revealed by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in Britain's parliament during an update on the G20 summit he attended in New Delhi. Also read | Ukraine claims it regained control of oil platform in Black Sea Sunak's comments, as per Reuters, are the first time an official has commented on a ship being targeted since Ukraine began efforts to allow vessels stranded in the Odesa port since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war. "Thanks to declassified intelligence, we know the Russian military targeted a civilian cargo ship in the Black Sea with multiple missiles on the 24th of August," said Sunak. As per the intelligence, as quoted by AFP, the intended target was a Liberian-flagged cargo ship berthed in port. Russia reportedly fired two "Kalibr" missiles from a Black Sea Fleet missile carrier, towards the southern Ukrainian port of Odessa. Also read | Russia raises red flag, says US nukes' return to UK soil a 'step towards escalation' "Despite its failure, this is a clear demonstration of Russia's continuing attempts to choke Ukraine's economy," the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said in a statement. An unwinnable war "Putin is trying to win a war he will not win, and these attacks show just how desperate he is," said Foreign Secretary James Cleverly in a statement. "In targeting cargo ships and Ukrainian infrastructure, Russia is hurting the rest of the world," he added. Russia has been accused by Ukraine of targeting civilian vessels ever since Moscow in July quit a UN-brokered deal that allowed Kyiv to safely export its grains via the Black Sea. Back then, the UK and the US had both warned that Russia might expand its targeting of Ukrainian grain facilities to include attacks on civilian shipping in the Black Sea. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK claims Russia attacked civilian cargo ship in Black Sea port, Putin 'trying to win war he will not'

President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (September 6) that a Russian attack on the city of Kostiantynivka in eastern Ukraine killed at least 17&nbsp;people and injured over a dozen. The attack happened on the day US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was visiting Kyiv.&nbsp;

Zelensky said on social media: "At this moment, the artillery of Russian terrorists has killed 16 people in the city of Kostiantynivka, Donetsk region. A regular market. Shops. A pharmacy. People who did nothing wrong. Many wounded. (sic)"&nbsp;

Zelensky and Prime Minister Denys Shmygal posted security camera footage of the strike. In the video, residents can be seen running for cover and sending off car alarms. Officials said that one child was among the dead.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-uses-car-tyres-to-cover-military-aircraft-to-deter-ukrainian-drone-attacks-report-632902">Russia uses car tyres to cover military aircraft to deter Ukrainian drone attacks: Report</a>&nbsp;

In a post on social media, Ukraine's interior ministry Igor Klymenko said that around 28 were injured. &nbsp;

Kostyantynivka is a frontline town of an estimated 70,000 people in the eastern industrial region of Donetsk, which has been the epicentre of fighting since Russia launched its invasion in February 2022.&nbsp;

Donetsk has been partially controlled by Kremlin-backed separatists since 2014 and &nbsp;Russia claimed to have annexed the region alongside three others late last year.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

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At least 16 people have been killed by Russian shelling in Kostyantynivka, Donetsk region. Russian terrorists have attacked a regular market, shops, and a pharmacy, killing innocent people. The number of casualties could rise further. 
 
Anyone in the world who is still dealing… <a href="https://t.co/PRfuGih2JD">pic.twitter.com/PRfuGih2JD</a>
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1699405764983415077?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Ukraine's new defence minister&nbsp;</h2>

Rustem Umerov, Ukraine's newly appointed defence minister, vowed to recapture all territory under Russian military control, in his first comments in the new role.&nbsp;

Lawmakers had earlier approved Umerov, a Crimean Tatar, as Kyiv's new defence minister after his name was put forward by Zelensky.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/russian-oil-and-gas-revenue-falls-due-to-increased-subsidies-632805">Russian oil and gas revenue falls due to increased subsidies</a>&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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"I will do everything possible and impossible for the victory of Ukraine -- when we liberate every centimetre of our country and every one of our people," Umerov said in a post on social media.

"We will return normal and dignified life to Ukrainian cities, which are unfortunately temporarily occupied. We know that people there are waiting for us," he added.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

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President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (September 6) that a Russian attack on the city of Kostiantynivka in eastern Ukraine killed at least 17 people and injured over a dozen.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (September 6) that a Russian attack on the city of Kostiantynivka in eastern Ukraine killed at least 17 people and injured over a dozen. The attack happened on the day US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was visiting Kyiv. Zelensky said on social media: "At this moment, the artillery of Russian terrorists has killed 16 people in the city of Kostiantynivka, Donetsk region. A regular market. Shops. A pharmacy. People who did nothing wrong. Many wounded. (sic)" Zelensky and Prime Minister Denys Shmygal posted security camera footage of the strike. In the video, residents can be seen running for cover and sending off car alarms. Officials said that one child was among the dead. Also read: Russia uses car tyres to cover military aircraft to deter Ukrainian drone attacks: Report In a post on social media, Ukraine's interior ministry Igor Klymenko said that around 28 were injured. Kostyantynivka is a frontline town of an estimated 70,000 people in the eastern industrial region of Donetsk, which has been the epicentre of fighting since Russia launched its invasion in February 2022. Donetsk has been partially controlled by Kremlin-backed separatists since 2014 and Russia claimed to have annexed the region alongside three others late last year. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. At least 16 people have been killed by Russian shelling in Kostyantynivka, Donetsk region. Russian terrorists have attacked a regular market, shops, and a pharmacy, killing innocent people. The number of casualties could rise further. Anyone in the world who is still dealing… pic.twitter.com/PRfuGih2JD — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) September 6, 2023 × Ukraine's new defence minister Rustem Umerov, Ukraine's newly appointed defence minister, vowed to recapture all territory under Russian military control, in his first comments in the new role. Lawmakers had earlier approved Umerov, a Crimean Tatar, as Kyiv's new defence minister after his name was put forward by Zelensky. Also read: Russian oil and gas revenue falls due to increased subsidies Watch this report: × "I will do everything possible and impossible for the victory of Ukraine -- when we liberate every centimetre of our country and every one of our people," Umerov said in a post on social media. "We will return normal and dignified life to Ukrainian cities, which are unfortunately temporarily occupied. We know that people there are waiting for us," he added. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Zelensky claims Russian strike kills at least 17 in east Ukraine market

Ukraine's First Lady Olena Zelenska for the first time opened up about how the Russian war has impacted their family emotionally.

In an interview with BBC, Zelenska said that she had been living apart from her husband, Volodymyr Zelensky, for more than a year due to security threats arising out of the ongoing conflict and added that it has taken a toll on her family.

"This may be a bit selfish, but I need my husband, not a historical figure, by my side," she told BBC in an interview posted online Tuesday morning (Sept 5).

"But we stay strong, we have strength both emotionally and physically. And I am sure we will handle it together," she added.

She spent the initial months of the Russian invasion hiding in secret locations with her children.

<h2>Separated for more than a year</h2>

Zelenska described the first critical days as "a constant feeling of adrenaline" before she forced herself to accept "the existing conditions."

Due to the Russia-Ukraine war, Volodymyr Zelensky’s movements have been kept as secret.

"We don't live together with my husband, the family is separated," Zelenska said.&nbsp;

"We have the opportunity to see each other but not as often as we would like. My son misses his father."

She said that the uncertainty of the war has cost her family dearly.

<h2>'My children miss him'</h2>

‘It pains me to watch that my kids don’t plan anything. At such an age, young people. My daughter is 19. They dream of travelling, of new sensations, emotions. She does not have such an opportunity,’ she was quoted as saying.

Zelenska met her husband in high school. Both of them later worked together in a comedy troupe and TV studio, with him as an actor and her as a scriptwriter.

Now, she says that she never dreamt of her husband becoming the "historical figure" he is today, adding that she has missed him and needed him to stand by her side as her husband.

Though she acknowledges that her feelings are nothing but a "selfish" longing, Zelenska said the president "really does have the energy, the will power, inspiration, and stubbornness to go through this war."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-ramps-up-efforts-against-potential-impeachment-inquiry-against-biden-632445">White House ramps up efforts against potential impeachment inquiry against Biden</a>

"I believe in him. And I support him. I know that he has enough strength. For any other person I know, I think, it would be much harder this situation. He really is a very strong and resilient person. And this resilience is what we all need right now."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-education-secretary-caught-on-cam-hurling-abuses-over-school-concrete-issue-632558">British education secretary caught on cam hurling abuses over school concrete issue</a>

Nowadays Zelenska is always surrounded by bodyguards as she travels internationally to rally support for her homeland and her husband.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine's First Lady Olena Zelenska for the first time opened up about how the Russian war has impacted their family emotionally. In an interview with BBC, Zelenska said that she had been living apart from her husband, Volodymyr Zelensky, for more than a year due to security threats arising out of the ongoing conflict and added that it has taken a toll on her family.

Ukraine's First Lady Olena Zelenska for the first time opened up about how the Russian war has impacted their family emotionally. In an interview with BBC, Zelenska said that she had been living apart from her husband, Volodymyr Zelensky, for more than a year due to security threats arising out of the ongoing conflict and added that it has taken a toll on her family. "This may be a bit selfish, but I need my husband, not a historical figure, by my side," she told BBC in an interview posted online Tuesday morning (Sept 5). "But we stay strong, we have strength both emotionally and physically. And I am sure we will handle it together," she added. She spent the initial months of the Russian invasion hiding in secret locations with her children. Separated for more than a year Zelenska described the first critical days as "a constant feeling of adrenaline" before she forced herself to accept "the existing conditions." Due to the Russia-Ukraine war, Volodymyr Zelensky’s movements have been kept as secret. "We don't live together with my husband, the family is separated," Zelenska said. "We have the opportunity to see each other but not as often as we would like. My son misses his father." She said that the uncertainty of the war has cost her family dearly. 'My children miss him' ‘It pains me to watch that my kids don’t plan anything. At such an age, young people. My daughter is 19. They dream of travelling, of new sensations, emotions. She does not have such an opportunity,’ she was quoted as saying. Zelenska met her husband in high school. Both of them later worked together in a comedy troupe and TV studio, with him as an actor and her as a scriptwriter. Now, she says that she never dreamt of her husband becoming the "historical figure" he is today, adding that she has missed him and needed him to stand by her side as her husband. Though she acknowledges that her feelings are nothing but a "selfish" longing, Zelenska said the president "really does have the energy, the will power, inspiration, and stubbornness to go through this war." Also read | White House ramps up efforts against potential impeachment inquiry against Biden "I believe in him. And I support him. I know that he has enough strength. For any other person I know, I think, it would be much harder this situation. He really is a very strong and resilient person. And this resilience is what we all need right now." Also read | British education secretary caught on cam hurling abuses over school concrete issue Nowadays Zelenska is always surrounded by bodyguards as she travels internationally to rally support for her homeland and her husband. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘I need my husband’: Ukraine’s First Lady Olena Zelenska opens up on impact of war on family

Rustem Umerov will be Ukraine's new defence minister, replacing Oleksii Reznikov who helmed the administrative apparatus of Ukrainian defence since the beginning of war in the region in February 2022 for a full 550-day period.&nbsp;

President Volodymyr Zelensky announced Umerov's nomination as the new defence minister and stated that the parliament would vote on it this week.&nbsp;<img alt="Rustem Umerov has been named Ukraine's new defence minister | Wikimedia Commons" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b97bad5-a0e2-4216-9d9e-4b04551b03f1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-09-04T101929.313.png" />

Rustem Umerov has been named Ukraine's new defence minister | Wikimedia Commons

Notably, the outgoing Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov is a member of an opposition party Ukrainian Democratic Alliance for Reform and is not a member of Volodymyr Zelensky's Servant of the People party.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Rustem Umerov as Ukrainian defence minister: Top challenges</h2>

Umerov will become Ukrainian defence minister when the country has lost an additional 119,000 sq km (46,000 sq mi) territory to Russia, and Kyiv's much-anticipated counter-offensive to reclaim this territory is faltering to the point that it's now reliant on drone attacks to dismantle Russian positions across the frontline.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/putins-actions-in-ukraine-do-not-make-indians-anti-russia-heres-why-613578">Putin’s actions in Ukraine do not make Indians anti-Russia. Here’s why</a>

Russia has taken over&nbsp;42,000 sq km of Ukrainian territory by 2022 (Crimea, and parts of Donetsk and Luhansk collectively known as the Donbas region).

Umerov faces the immediate challenge of preventing further disintegration of the nation at the hands of the Russian offensive, a perpetual conflict that so far has resulted in the loss of 27 per cent of Ukraine's pre-2014 territory.

Umerov is a prominent member of the Crimean Tatar community and has represented Ukraine in delicate negotiations with Russia after what Kyiv says was the annexation of the Crimean peninsula by Moscow in March 2014.&nbsp;

<h2>Umerov at forefront of reversing Russian annexation of Crimea</h2>

Starting his career in the telecom industry in 2004, the 41-year-old was elected to the Ukrainian parliament in 2019.&nbsp;

During his time there, he co-chaired the Crimea Platform, an international diplomatic initiative aimed at reversing Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea.&nbsp;

Umerov has also served as an advisor to the historic leader of the Crimean Tatars, Mustafa Dzhemilev.

After Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014, Umerov has been involved in confidential talks with Russian officials, including negotiations for high-profile prisoner exchanges and civilian evacuations.&nbsp;

He has been a key figure in Ukraine's efforts to establish an export corridor for Ukrainian grain through the Black Sea, which Russia later withdrew from.

In September of the previous year, he was appointed as the head of the State Property Fund, a challenging position in Ukraine where privatisation has been marred by corruption.

<h2>Umerov to be new defence minister: Why Zelensky made the change?</h2>

President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine cited the need for "new approaches" while announcing Umerov as the country's next defence minister.&nbsp;

The fate of the existing defence minister, Oleksii Reznikov, came under intense speculations in Ukraine after financial irregularities in the defence ministry came to light and the government launched a number of investigations into corruption allegations in general.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Has Russia blunted Ukraine's counteroffensive with NATO weapons?

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"Oleksii Reznikov has gone through more than 550 days of full-scale war," &nbsp;Zelensky said in a statement announcing his decision on Sunday night. "I believe that the ministry needs new approaches and other formats of interaction with both the military and society at large."

At present, Ukraine faces the challenge of expanding its army amid the transition of its Soviet-era arsenal to the Western systems.

Notably, while the West is supplying Ukraine with weapons, the Ukrainian defence forces have been trained to operate Soviet-era weaponry. So, training a war-ravaged force on a different system of weaponry altogether while trying to regain territories lost to Russia, will remain the incoming defence minister's top priority.

In its counteroffensive in the Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk regions in the country’s south, Ukraine has deployed US and European armoured vehicles, tanks, artillery and guided rockets with disputed effectiveness.&nbsp;

<h2>Umerov's controversial actions after Russian annexation of Crimea</h2>

Umerov in April 2021 stated that Ukraine would not supply water to Crimea after its annexation by Russia. Umerov justified this by saying that since Russia has violated international law, it is responsible for the humanitarian needs of the Crimean people.

<h2>Umerov's ancestors were accused of being Nazi collaborators</h2>

Born in Soviet Uzbekistan, Umerov and his family returned to Crimea in Ukraine during the 1980s and 1990s when the Tatars were allowed to come back from Uzbekistan.

In 1944, Russian leader Joseph Stalin ordered the deportation of the entire Crimean Tatar community (roughly 200,000 in number) and accused them of collaborating with the Nazis. Stalin’s government forcibly loaded most Crimean Tatar onto freight cars bound for Central Asia, where they were to be resettled. Reports suggest that nearly half of the deported died during the ordeal.&nbsp;

Stalin's claim is deemed false by most post-second world war analysis, and has been formally recognised as a crime of genocide or 'cultural genocide'.

Umerov's family funded the restoration of a 17th-century Orta Cami Mosque in Bakhchysarai in an act to regain Crimea's cultural and historical heritage.&nbsp;

The reconstructed mosque, which had been inactive for about 95 years, reopened on 16 August 2013.&nbsp;

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Rustem Umerov will be Ukraine's new defence minister, replacing Oleksii Reznikov who helmed the administrative apparatus of Ukrainian defence since the beginning of war in the region in February 2022 for a full 550-day period.

Rustem Umerov will be Ukraine's new defence minister, replacing Oleksii Reznikov who helmed the administrative apparatus of Ukrainian defence since the beginning of war in the region in February 2022 for a full 550-day period. President Volodymyr Zelensky announced Umerov's nomination as the new defence minister and stated that the parliament would vote on it this week. Rustem Umerov has been named Ukraine's new defence minister | Wikimedia Commons Notably, the outgoing Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov is a member of an opposition party Ukrainian Democratic Alliance for Reform and is not a member of Volodymyr Zelensky's Servant of the People party. Rustem Umerov as Ukrainian defence minister: Top challenges Umerov will become Ukrainian defence minister when the country has lost an additional 119,000 sq km (46,000 sq mi) territory to Russia, and Kyiv's much-anticipated counter-offensive to reclaim this territory is faltering to the point that it's now reliant on drone attacks to dismantle Russian positions across the frontline. Also read | Putin’s actions in Ukraine do not make Indians anti-Russia. Here’s why Russia has taken over 42,000 sq km of Ukrainian territory by 2022 (Crimea, and parts of Donetsk and Luhansk collectively known as the Donbas region). Umerov faces the immediate challenge of preventing further disintegration of the nation at the hands of the Russian offensive, a perpetual conflict that so far has resulted in the loss of 27 per cent of Ukraine's pre-2014 territory. Umerov is a prominent member of the Crimean Tatar community and has represented Ukraine in delicate negotiations with Russia after what Kyiv says was the annexation of the Crimean peninsula by Moscow in March 2014. Umerov at forefront of reversing Russian annexation of Crimea Starting his career in the telecom industry in 2004, the 41-year-old was elected to the Ukrainian parliament in 2019. During his time there, he co-chaired the Crimea Platform, an international diplomatic initiative aimed at reversing Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea. Umerov has also served as an advisor to the historic leader of the Crimean Tatars, Mustafa Dzhemilev. After Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014, Umerov has been involved in confidential talks with Russian officials, including negotiations for high-profile prisoner exchanges and civilian evacuations. He has been a key figure in Ukraine's efforts to establish an export corridor for Ukrainian grain through the Black Sea, which Russia later withdrew from. In September of the previous year, he was appointed as the head of the State Property Fund, a challenging position in Ukraine where privatisation has been marred by corruption. Umerov to be new defence minister: Why Zelensky made the change? President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine cited the need for "new approaches" while announcing Umerov as the country's next defence minister. The fate of the existing defence minister, Oleksii Reznikov, came under intense speculations in Ukraine after financial irregularities in the defence ministry came to light and the government launched a number of investigations into corruption allegations in general. Also watch | Gravitas: Has Russia blunted Ukraine's counteroffensive with NATO weapons? × "Oleksii Reznikov has gone through more than 550 days of full-scale war," Zelensky said in a statement announcing his decision on Sunday night. "I believe that the ministry needs new approaches and other formats of interaction with both the military and society at large." At present, Ukraine faces the challenge of expanding its army amid the transition of its Soviet-era arsenal to the Western systems. Notably, while the West is supplying Ukraine with weapons, the Ukrainian defence forces have been trained to operate Soviet-era weaponry. So, training a war-ravaged force on a different system of weaponry altogether while trying to regain territories lost to Russia, will remain the incoming defence minister's top priority. In its counteroffensive in the Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk regions in the country’s south, Ukraine has deployed US and European armoured vehicles, tanks, artillery and guided rockets with disputed effectiveness. Umerov's controversial actions after Russian annexation of Crimea Umerov in April 2021 stated that Ukraine would not supply water to Crimea after its annexation by Russia. Umerov justified this by saying that since Russia has violated international law, it is responsible for the humanitarian needs of the Crimean people. Umerov's ancestors were accused of being Nazi collaborators Born in Soviet Uzbekistan, Umerov and his family returned to Crimea in Ukraine during the 1980s and 1990s when the Tatars were allowed to come back from Uzbekistan. In 1944, Russian leader Joseph Stalin ordered the deportation of the entire Crimean Tatar community (roughly 200,000 in number) and accused them of collaborating with the Nazis. Stalin’s government forcibly loaded most Crimean Tatar onto freight cars bound for Central Asia, where they were to be resettled. Reports suggest that nearly half of the deported died during the ordeal. Stalin's claim is deemed false by most post-second world war analysis, and has been formally recognised as a crime of genocide or 'cultural genocide'. Umerov's family funded the restoration of a 17th-century Orta Cami Mosque in Bakhchysarai in an act to regain Crimea's cultural and historical heritage. The reconstructed mosque, which had been inactive for about 95 years, reopened on 16 August 2013. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Inside Ukrainian shake up that forced Zelensky to replace his defence minister

Since the Russian invasion of Kyiv began some 552 days back, more than 1,300 schools have been totally destroyed in Ukraine, while many others have been seriously damaged, said Children's Fund UNICEF on Tuesday.

<h2>The hidden cost of war</h2>

As per the Children's Fund, persistent attacks mean that only about one-third of school going age children in Ukraine are attending schools. Many, it said, are forgetting what they may have learned earlier.

"Inside Ukraine, attacks on schools have continued unabated, leaving children deeply distressed and without safe spaces to learn," said the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF), as reported by Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-wont-attend-wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhins-funeral-kremlin-630231">Vladimir Putin won't attend Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's funeral: Kremlin</a>

The UN agency stated that while some schools have suffered direct hits, others have taken precautionary steps and have closed down as the 18 months of missile and artillery attacks on residential areas across the country continue.

<h2>Four years lost</h2>

As per the UN agency, this is the fourth consecutive year Ukrainian children are facing disruptions to their education. Before the Russia-Ukraine war, Covid was the reason behind the disruption of their school education.

"Inside Ukraine, attacks on schools have continued unabated, leaving children deeply distressed and without safe spaces to learn," said Regina De Dominicis, UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia.

"Not only has this left Ukraine's children struggling to progress in their education, but they are also struggling to retain what they learnt when their schools were fully functioning," she added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-faces-criticism-for-telling-russian-youths-to-remember-legacy-of-a-great-empire-630204">Pope faces criticism for telling Russian youths to remember 'legacy' of a 'great empire'</a>

As per AFP, UNICEF survey data shows around half of Ukraine's teachers have reported a deterioration in their students' abilities, like reading, language and mathematics. They also reported that the children have missed out on the sense of safety and friendships school can provide to those enduring war.

Enrolment data indicates that only about one-third of the children were learning fully in-person, another third were studying through remote, online classes, and the remaining were getting education through a mixed approach.&nbsp;

It also found that two-thirds (or about 66 per cent) of pre-school-age children weren't attending school. In frontline areas, this figure rises to three-fourths or 75 per cent.&nbsp;

Those who have sought refuge outside Ukraine face other uncertainties. More than half the refugee children across seven host countries are not enrolled in schools due to language barriers, difficulty in accessing schools and overstretched education systems.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Since the Russian invasion of Kyiv began some 552 days back, more than 1,300 schools have been totally destroyed in Ukraine, while many others have been seriously damaged, said Children's Fund UNICEF on Tuesday.

Since the Russian invasion of Kyiv began some 552 days back, more than 1,300 schools have been totally destroyed in Ukraine, while many others have been seriously damaged, said Children's Fund UNICEF on Tuesday. The hidden cost of war As per the Children's Fund, persistent attacks mean that only about one-third of school going age children in Ukraine are attending schools. Many, it said, are forgetting what they may have learned earlier. "Inside Ukraine, attacks on schools have continued unabated, leaving children deeply distressed and without safe spaces to learn," said the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF), as reported by Reuters. Also read | Vladimir Putin won't attend Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's funeral: Kremlin The UN agency stated that while some schools have suffered direct hits, others have taken precautionary steps and have closed down as the 18 months of missile and artillery attacks on residential areas across the country continue. Four years lost As per the UN agency, this is the fourth consecutive year Ukrainian children are facing disruptions to their education. Before the Russia-Ukraine war, Covid was the reason behind the disruption of their school education. "Inside Ukraine, attacks on schools have continued unabated, leaving children deeply distressed and without safe spaces to learn," said Regina De Dominicis, UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia. "Not only has this left Ukraine's children struggling to progress in their education, but they are also struggling to retain what they learnt when their schools were fully functioning," she added. Also read | Pope faces criticism for telling Russian youths to remember 'legacy' of a 'great empire' As per AFP, UNICEF survey data shows around half of Ukraine's teachers have reported a deterioration in their students' abilities, like reading, language and mathematics. They also reported that the children have missed out on the sense of safety and friendships school can provide to those enduring war. Enrolment data indicates that only about one-third of the children were learning fully in-person, another third were studying through remote, online classes, and the remaining were getting education through a mixed approach. It also found that two-thirds (or about 66 per cent) of pre-school-age children weren't attending school. In frontline areas, this figure rises to three-fourths or 75 per cent. Those who have sought refuge outside Ukraine face other uncertainties. More than half the refugee children across seven host countries are not enrolled in schools due to language barriers, difficulty in accessing schools and overstretched education systems. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hidden cost of Russia-Ukraine war: Children losing out on education, warns UNICEF

Russian President Vladimir Putin has no plans to attend Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's funeral, said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov on Tuesday (August 29) while talking to reporters.

<h2>"Not envisaged"</h2>

When asked about Putin's attendance at the last rites of Prigozhin, Peskov, as per an AFP report, said, "The presence of the president is not envisaged."&nbsp;

He also said that the Kremlin did not have any specific information about the mercenary leader's funeral and that the arrangements were up to the family.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uncertainty-persists-over-wagner-chiefs-death-russia-to-conduct-molecular-genetic-test-on-remains-from-crash-629336">Uncertainty persists over Wagner chief's death, Russia to conduct molecular genetic test on remains from crash</a>

Amid doubts about Prigozhin's presence on the plane, on Sunday, genetic tests confirmed that the Wagner chief was in fact among the 10 people killed in the plane crash near Moscow.

"Molecular-genetic examinations have been completed as part of the investigation into the plane crash in the Tver region," said Russia's Investigative Committee spokesperson Svetlana Petrenko.

"According to their results, the identities of all 10 victims were established, they correspond to the list stated in the flight list," she added.

<h2>Revenge or accident?</h2>

The Wednesday (August 23rd) crash happened two months to the day Prigozhin and his mercenaries staged a mutiny against Putin and his top military commanders.&nbsp;

Prigozhin, who was popularly known as Putin's chef, led a mutiny of his mercenary fighters in June.

As per AFP, they took control of the southern city of Rostov and advanced towards Moscow before turning back some 200 km (125 miles) from the capital.

The soon-aborted armed revolt was described as "treachery" by Putin. However, later a deal was struck that gave the Wagner mercenaries the option to join the Russian army or go to Moscow's ally Belarus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/virgins-vitality-and-penile-implants-shocking-report-uncovers-wagner-chiefs-harem-of-young-girls-620321">Virgins, vitality and penile implants: Shocking report uncovers Wagner chief's harem of young girls</a>

In spite of the deal, following the rebellion, many observers had reportedly described the Wagner chief as a "dead man walking," and had argued that Putin's forgiveness may not come. Western nations and Kremlin critics have been speculating that Prigozhin may have been assassinated.

Despite this, the Kremlin has denied any part in the Wagner chief's death and has labelled the assassination rumours an "absolute lie".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has no plans to attend Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's funeral, said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov on Tuesday (August 29) while talking to reporters.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has no plans to attend Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's funeral, said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov on Tuesday (August 29) while talking to reporters. "Not envisaged" When asked about Putin's attendance at the last rites of Prigozhin, Peskov, as per an AFP report, said, "The presence of the president is not envisaged." He also said that the Kremlin did not have any specific information about the mercenary leader's funeral and that the arrangements were up to the family. Also read | Uncertainty persists over Wagner chief's death, Russia to conduct molecular genetic test on remains from crash Amid doubts about Prigozhin's presence on the plane, on Sunday, genetic tests confirmed that the Wagner chief was in fact among the 10 people killed in the plane crash near Moscow. "Molecular-genetic examinations have been completed as part of the investigation into the plane crash in the Tver region," said Russia's Investigative Committee spokesperson Svetlana Petrenko. "According to their results, the identities of all 10 victims were established, they correspond to the list stated in the flight list," she added. Revenge or accident? The Wednesday (August 23rd) crash happened two months to the day Prigozhin and his mercenaries staged a mutiny against Putin and his top military commanders. Prigozhin, who was popularly known as Putin's chef, led a mutiny of his mercenary fighters in June. As per AFP, they took control of the southern city of Rostov and advanced towards Moscow before turning back some 200 km (125 miles) from the capital. The soon-aborted armed revolt was described as "treachery" by Putin. However, later a deal was struck that gave the Wagner mercenaries the option to join the Russian army or go to Moscow's ally Belarus. Also read | Virgins, vitality and penile implants: Shocking report uncovers Wagner chief's harem of young girls In spite of the deal, following the rebellion, many observers had reportedly described the Wagner chief as a "dead man walking," and had argued that Putin's forgiveness may not come. Western nations and Kremlin critics have been speculating that Prigozhin may have been assassinated. Despite this, the Kremlin has denied any part in the Wagner chief's death and has labelled the assassination rumours an "absolute lie". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Vladimir Putin won't attend Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's funeral: Kremlin

Russia on Friday announced that it has recovered 10 bodies and flight recorders from the scene of the plane crash that is presumed to have killed Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin.

Investigators are now carrying out "molecular-genetic tests" on the remains.

<h2>The need for such a test</h2>

As per the passenger list, Prigozhin and his right-hand man Dmitry Utkin, as well as five other passengers and three crew members, were on board of the Embraer Legacy 600 jet, when it crashed in the Tver region, north-west of the Russian capital Moscow on Wednesday.

However, in spite of the flight manifest, there have been questions over whether the Kremlin had absolute confirmation that the Wagner chief was in fact on board the aircraft.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-killed-yevgeny-prigozhin-us-preliminary-findings-discover-traces-of-sabotage-628904">Bomb in a wine crate aboard Prigozhin's plane led to the crash, reports suggest</a>

To "establish their (passengers) identities" Russia's Investigative Committee said it was carrying out "molecular genetic analyses".

Speaking to the BBC over a conference call that included journalists from other publications, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said there were "lots of speculation" around the "tragic" deaths of the 10 people in Wednesday's air crash near Moscow.

"In the West, of course, this speculation comes from a certain angle. It's all a complete lie," he said, adding, "We don't have many facts at the moment, the facts need to be clarified during the official investigation which is being carried out now."

<h2>Putin denies ordering the killing</h2>

Talking to BBC on Friday, the Russian President Vladimir Putin denied giving the order for Prigozhin's assassination and labelled the rumours a "complete lie."

Prigozhin, who was popularly known as Putin's chef, led a mutiny of his mercenary fighters in June.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-warned-wagner-group-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-about-threats-to-his-life-belarusian-president-lukashenko-629273">I warned Wagner group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin about threats to his life: Belarusian President Lukashenko</a>

The soon-aborted armed revolt was described as "treachery" by Putin. However, later a deal was struck that gave the Wagner mercenaries the options to either join the Russian army or go to Moscow's ally Belarus.

In spite of that, after the rebellion, many observers had reportedly described the Wagner chief as a "dead man walking," and had argued that Putin's forgiveness may not come. Now, western nations and Kremlin&nbsp;critics&nbsp;have been speculating that Prigozhin may have been assassinated.

Since the plane came down, there has been a frenzied speculation about what caused the crash. However, the exact cause is still not known. The Kremlin has announced that it has opened a probe into alleged violations of air traffic rules by the aircraft, but has maintained its silence otherwise, reports AFP. Meanwhile, on Friday, US President Joe Biden said that his nation was trying to "nail down" precisely what brought down the plane.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Russia on Friday announced that it has recovered 10 bodies and flight recorders from the scene of the plane crash that is presumed to have killed Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin.

Russia on Friday announced that it has recovered 10 bodies and flight recorders from the scene of the plane crash that is presumed to have killed Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin. Investigators are now carrying out "molecular-genetic tests" on the remains. The need for such a test As per the passenger list, Prigozhin and his right-hand man Dmitry Utkin, as well as five other passengers and three crew members, were on board of the Embraer Legacy 600 jet, when it crashed in the Tver region, north-west of the Russian capital Moscow on Wednesday. However, in spite of the flight manifest, there have been questions over whether the Kremlin had absolute confirmation that the Wagner chief was in fact on board the aircraft. Also read | Bomb in a wine crate aboard Prigozhin's plane led to the crash, reports suggest To "establish their (passengers) identities" Russia's Investigative Committee said it was carrying out "molecular genetic analyses". Speaking to the BBC over a conference call that included journalists from other publications, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said there were "lots of speculation" around the "tragic" deaths of the 10 people in Wednesday's air crash near Moscow. "In the West, of course, this speculation comes from a certain angle. It's all a complete lie," he said, adding, "We don't have many facts at the moment, the facts need to be clarified during the official investigation which is being carried out now." Putin denies ordering the killing Talking to BBC on Friday, the Russian President Vladimir Putin denied giving the order for Prigozhin's assassination and labelled the rumours a "complete lie." Prigozhin, who was popularly known as Putin's chef, led a mutiny of his mercenary fighters in June. Also read | I warned Wagner group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin about threats to his life: Belarusian President Lukashenko The soon-aborted armed revolt was described as "treachery" by Putin. However, later a deal was struck that gave the Wagner mercenaries the options to either join the Russian army or go to Moscow's ally Belarus. In spite of that, after the rebellion, many observers had reportedly described the Wagner chief as a "dead man walking," and had argued that Putin's forgiveness may not come. Now, western nations and Kremlin critics have been speculating that Prigozhin may have been assassinated. Since the plane came down, there has been a frenzied speculation about what caused the crash. However, the exact cause is still not known. The Kremlin has announced that it has opened a probe into alleged violations of air traffic rules by the aircraft, but has maintained its silence otherwise, reports AFP. Meanwhile, on Friday, US President Joe Biden said that his nation was trying to "nail down" precisely what brought down the plane. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Uncertainty persists over Wagner chief's death, Russia to conduct molecular genetic test on remains from crash

"For Christ's sake, guys, take me and finish me already," said Yevgeny Prigozhin in an interview as his stand-off with Russian military leadership and President Vladimir Putin escalated in the spring this year.

"What will be, will be," he added, as per an interview excerpt making the rounds. According to preliminary US government assessments, what happened was an assassination plot that took out the thorn in Putin's side.&nbsp;

The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reports that as per US officials, while it looks like an assassination angle was behind Prigozhin's death, contrary to earlier speculation, the Wagner chief's aircraft doesn't appear to have been shot down by a surface-to-air missile.

<h2>Who, or what, killed Yevgeny Prigozhin?</h2>

As per WSJ, preliminary US government assessments, which are incomplete, suggest that sabotage or a bomb that exploded on the aircraft was behind the crash.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prigozhins-death-sparks-global-intrigue-as-putins-unforgiving-side-resurfaces-in-old-video-watch-628781">Prigozhin's death sparks buzz of intrigue as Putin's unforgiving side resurfaces in old video. WATCH</a>

Previously, social media channels close to the mercenary chief claimed that the aircraft carrying Prigozhin was downed by a Russian military anti-aircraft missile.

The Kremlin is yet to offer an explanation for the aircraft crash that happened northwest of Moscow but said that it was conducting an investigation. Russia’s Investigative Committee has reportedly launched a criminal probe into alleged violations of air safety rules. However, official information on the crash or its causes remains scant.

As per LBC, a UK-based publication, relatives of 39-year-old Kristina Raspopova, a flight attendant on board the aircraft who also died, have revealed that the flight was delayed due to "maintenance or some urgent repairs".

Talking to Sky News, former British intelligence officer Christopher Steele said that in an "ironic" twist, there are suggestions that a bomb in a wine crate may be behind the explosion and the subsequent crash.

"That's a kind of ironic end for Putin's former caterer," he added.

<h2>What happens now?</h2>

As per the WSJ report, as with previous deaths of Putin rivals, the Russian government is likely going to try to create confusion over who killed Prigozhin.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Putin condoles Wagner Chief's Yevgeny Prigozhin death

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Russian state-run media has already begun floating stories that blame Ukraine — a likely scapegoat, or some as of now unnamed rival of the Wagner chief.

However, the Wagner chief was often considered Putin's protégé, and while the Kremlin has previously eliminated rivals, Prigozhin's death marks the first high-ranking loyalist whom Putin is believed to have had killed over 'wrongdoings'.

Talking to the publication, Eric Green, former Russia adviser to President Biden’s National Security Council says, in the Kremlin, "there is likely sensitivity to how the Wagner fighters and their sympathisers will take the news" of Prigozhin’s death.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prigozhin-death-news-this-is-what-happened-to-other-putin-foes-628714">Prigozhin death news: This is what happened to other Putin foes in the past</a>

Due to Prigozhin's polarising yet popular image, uncertainty would help the Kremlin claim the report. Yet, as per the report, those on the inside were "clear-eyed about who was behind his murder".

Green says over time, the Kremlin may be more definitive about who killed Prigozhin. He noted that in the poisoning of other rivals like Alexei Navalny and ex-spies Sergei Skripal and Alexander Litvinenko "the Kremlin initially cultivated ambiguity, but in subsequent months dropped unmistakable hints as to its authorship."

(With inputs from agencies)

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"For Christ's sake, guys, take me and finish me already," said Yevgeny Prigozhin in an interview as his stand-off with Russian military leadership and President Vladimir Putin escalated in the spring this year.

"For Christ's sake, guys, take me and finish me already," said Yevgeny Prigozhin in an interview as his stand-off with Russian military leadership and President Vladimir Putin escalated in the spring this year. "What will be, will be," he added, as per an interview excerpt making the rounds. According to preliminary US government assessments, what happened was an assassination plot that took out the thorn in Putin's side. The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reports that as per US officials, while it looks like an assassination angle was behind Prigozhin's death, contrary to earlier speculation, the Wagner chief's aircraft doesn't appear to have been shot down by a surface-to-air missile. Who, or what, killed Yevgeny Prigozhin? As per WSJ, preliminary US government assessments, which are incomplete, suggest that sabotage or a bomb that exploded on the aircraft was behind the crash. Also read | Prigozhin's death sparks buzz of intrigue as Putin's unforgiving side resurfaces in old video. WATCH Previously, social media channels close to the mercenary chief claimed that the aircraft carrying Prigozhin was downed by a Russian military anti-aircraft missile. The Kremlin is yet to offer an explanation for the aircraft crash that happened northwest of Moscow but said that it was conducting an investigation. Russia’s Investigative Committee has reportedly launched a criminal probe into alleged violations of air safety rules. However, official information on the crash or its causes remains scant. As per LBC, a UK-based publication, relatives of 39-year-old Kristina Raspopova, a flight attendant on board the aircraft who also died, have revealed that the flight was delayed due to "maintenance or some urgent repairs". Talking to Sky News, former British intelligence officer Christopher Steele said that in an "ironic" twist, there are suggestions that a bomb in a wine crate may be behind the explosion and the subsequent crash. "That's a kind of ironic end for Putin's former caterer," he added. What happens now? As per the WSJ report, as with previous deaths of Putin rivals, the Russian government is likely going to try to create confusion over who killed Prigozhin. Watch | Putin condoles Wagner Chief's Yevgeny Prigozhin death Russian state-run media has already begun floating stories that blame Ukraine — a likely scapegoat, or some as of now unnamed rival of the Wagner chief. However, the Wagner chief was often considered Putin's protégé, and while the Kremlin has previously eliminated rivals, Prigozhin's death marks the first high-ranking loyalist whom Putin is believed to have had killed over 'wrongdoings'. Talking to the publication, Eric Green, former Russia adviser to President Biden’s National Security Council says, in the Kremlin, "there is likely sensitivity to how the Wagner fighters and their sympathisers will take the news" of Prigozhin’s death. Also read | Prigozhin death news: This is what happened to other Putin foes in the past Due to Prigozhin's polarising yet popular image, uncertainty would help the Kremlin claim the report. Yet, as per the report, those on the inside were "clear-eyed about who was behind his murder". Green says over time, the Kremlin may be more definitive about who killed Prigozhin. He noted that in the poisoning of other rivals like Alexei Navalny and ex-spies Sergei Skripal and Alexander Litvinenko "the Kremlin initially cultivated ambiguity, but in subsequent months dropped unmistakable hints as to its authorship." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bomb in a wine crate aboard Prigozhin's plane led to the crash, reports suggest

Russian air defences have downed two "attack drones" over the Moscow region, the city's mayor said on Tuesday. &nbsp;

Taking to Telegram, Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin said that "air defence shot down two attack drones. One in the Krasnogorsk area, the other in the Chastsy area." He also said that emergency services were responding.&nbsp;

<h2>Casualties</h2>

As per a report by news agency AFP, Sobyanin did not provide details on damage or the casualties.&nbsp;

The Russian defence ministry confirmed that two Ukrainian drones were downed over the Bryansk region near the Ukrainian border and said that there had been no casualties.

Russia's TASS news agency reported that "Glass damage was recorded on several floors" in a multi-storey residential building in Krasnogorsk."

"Several cars parked near the house were also damaged," it added.

However, it did not specify whether the glass damage was due to the drone strike or not.

<h2>Spate of attacks</h2>

AFP reports that in recent weeks, two drone attacks have been repelled over Moscow's financial district. Each of these attacks caused minor damage to the facades of high-rise buildings.

Earlier, on Monday evening, the Russian defence ministry announced that its military had successfully intercepted and shot down two Ukrainian drones above the Black Sea, around 40 kilometres northwest of the Crimean peninsula.&nbsp;

In its statement, the ministry said, at around 6:50 am (0350 GMT), Kyiv's attempt to carry out an "attack with an aircraft-type unmanned aerial vehicle was foiled". It further said that there were no casualties and that the drone was "suppressed by means of electronic warfare".

The drones crashed in Pokrovskoye village in the Odintsovo district southwest of the capital.&nbsp;Previously in May, drones were shot down near the Kremlin.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian air defences have downed two "attack drones" over the Moscow region, the city's mayor said on Tuesday. Taking to Telegram, Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin said that "air defence shot down two attack drones.

Russian air defences have downed two "attack drones" over the Moscow region, the city's mayor said on Tuesday. Taking to Telegram, Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin said that "air defence shot down two attack drones. One in the Krasnogorsk area, the other in the Chastsy area." He also said that emergency services were responding. Casualties As per a report by news agency AFP, Sobyanin did not provide details on damage or the casualties. The Russian defence ministry confirmed that two Ukrainian drones were downed over the Bryansk region near the Ukrainian border and said that there had been no casualties. Russia's TASS news agency reported that "Glass damage was recorded on several floors" in a multi-storey residential building in Krasnogorsk." "Several cars parked near the house were also damaged," it added. However, it did not specify whether the glass damage was due to the drone strike or not. Spate of attacks AFP reports that in recent weeks, two drone attacks have been repelled over Moscow's financial district. Each of these attacks caused minor damage to the facades of high-rise buildings. Earlier, on Monday evening, the Russian defence ministry announced that its military had successfully intercepted and shot down two Ukrainian drones above the Black Sea, around 40 kilometres northwest of the Crimean peninsula. In its statement, the ministry said, at around 6:50 am (0350 GMT), Kyiv's attempt to carry out an "attack with an aircraft-type unmanned aerial vehicle was foiled". It further said that there were no casualties and that the drone was "suppressed by means of electronic warfare". The drones crashed in Pokrovskoye village in the Odintsovo district southwest of the capital. Previously in May, drones were shot down near the Kremlin. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russian air defence intercepts and downs two 'attack drones' near Moscow

Joseph Schulte, a civilian cargo ship from Ukraine, has reached Istanbul. Defying a Russian blockade, the Hong Kong-flagged ship reached its destination on Thursday.

This is the first vessel to directly challenge Vladimir Putin's bid to cut off Ukraine's access to the Black Sea.

<h2>Why is this significant?</h2>

The Joseph Schulte mission comes just days after Russia opened fire on a Turkish-owned ship. The Palau-flagged vessel, as per AFP, was sailing to the Ukrainian river port of Izmail when the Russian navy fired warning shots and boarded it.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-says-russian-terrorist-attacks-on-ukraine-a-threat-to-global-food-security-626222">Volodymyr Zelensky says Russian 'terrorist' attacks on Ukraine a threat to 'global food security'</a>

Not only this, Moscow, since pulling out of the UN-backed and Turkey mediated Black Sea Grain Initiative, has stepped up attacks on Ukraine's shipping infrastructure.

Ukraine's decision to take on Russia over maritime access coincides with global attention being focused on ensuring the security of grain export routes in time for this year's autumn harvest.

<h2>How did Joseph Schulte&nbsp;evade Russia?</h2>

According to marine traffic websites, the ship moved along a western route that deliberately steered clear of international waters and instead travelled through areas under the control of NATO members&nbsp;Romania and Bulgaria.

In Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's words, the ship was utilising a "new humanitarian corridor" established by Kyiv.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-new-military-recruitment-campaign-calls-on-citizens-to-overcome-their-fears-626540">Ukraine's new military recruitment campaign calls on citizens to 'overcome their fears'</a>

This corridor, as per news agency AFP, was put in place after Russia withdrew from the agreement that facilitated the export of grain along the Black Sea.

<h2>Significance of the Black Sea Grain Initiative</h2>

The deal that happened last year helped bring down global food prices and also helped Ukraine with an important revenue source that aided its efforts in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

However, on July 17, Moscow pulled out of the deal. It claimed that it was exiting the deal, as it had failed to fulfil the goal of relieving hunger from Africa and other famine-stricken nations.&nbsp;

Recently, the United States said it was "going to look at everything" — including the possibility of military support for the Ukrainian ships.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Joseph Schulte, a civilian cargo ship from Ukraine, has reached Istanbul. Defying a Russian blockade, the Hong Kong-flagged ship reached its destination on Thursday.

Joseph Schulte, a civilian cargo ship from Ukraine, has reached Istanbul. Defying a Russian blockade, the Hong Kong-flagged ship reached its destination on Thursday. This is the first vessel to directly challenge Vladimir Putin's bid to cut off Ukraine's access to the Black Sea. Why is this significant? The Joseph Schulte mission comes just days after Russia opened fire on a Turkish-owned ship. The Palau-flagged vessel, as per AFP, was sailing to the Ukrainian river port of Izmail when the Russian navy fired warning shots and boarded it. Also read | Volodymyr Zelensky says Russian 'terrorist' attacks on Ukraine a threat to 'global food security' Not only this, Moscow, since pulling out of the UN-backed and Turkey mediated Black Sea Grain Initiative, has stepped up attacks on Ukraine's shipping infrastructure. Ukraine's decision to take on Russia over maritime access coincides with global attention being focused on ensuring the security of grain export routes in time for this year's autumn harvest. How did Joseph Schulte evade Russia? According to marine traffic websites, the ship moved along a western route that deliberately steered clear of international waters and instead travelled through areas under the control of NATO members Romania and Bulgaria. In Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's words, the ship was utilising a "new humanitarian corridor" established by Kyiv. Also read | Ukraine's new military recruitment campaign calls on citizens to 'overcome their fears' This corridor, as per news agency AFP, was put in place after Russia withdrew from the agreement that facilitated the export of grain along the Black Sea. Significance of the Black Sea Grain Initiative The deal that happened last year helped bring down global food prices and also helped Ukraine with an important revenue source that aided its efforts in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. However, on July 17, Moscow pulled out of the deal. It claimed that it was exiting the deal, as it had failed to fulfil the goal of relieving hunger from Africa and other famine-stricken nations. Recently, the United States said it was "going to look at everything" — including the possibility of military support for the Ukrainian ships. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Joseph Schulte, the first Ukraine ship to challenge Russia's Black Sea blockade reaches Istanbul

Ukraine on Thursday launched its latest military campaign that is rallying military-aged citizens to update their data at army enlistment offices and "overcome their fear".

This campaign comes as the war-torn nation's summer-offensive grinds through its third month.

<h2>Major obstacle in army recruitment</h2>

The campaign, as per Reuters, draws on sickly produced videos and photo testimonials of prominent soldiers expressing their fears.&nbsp;

Using these testimonials, it tries to break down a major obstacle that the nation is facing in army recruitment.

As the Russia-Ukraine war nears the 18-month mark, Ukraine is reportedly facing a tough&nbsp;challenge to recruit.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kyiv-sounds-defeatist-says-wont-be-able-to-use-f-16-fighter-jets-this-year-626397">Kyiv sounds defeatist, says 'won't be able' to use F-16 fighter jets this year</a>

Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar said that military-age citizens are duty bound to update their personal data at draft offices.

"We're all living people, and we all overcome this fear in order to win," stated Deputy Defence Minister.

However, the Ukrainian minister clarified that all those who update their information at drafting centres would not be mobilised automatically. She also said those citizens that do get mobilised would not necessarily end up in a combat zone.

Following the launch of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declared a general mobilisation. Reuters reports that military reservists aged 18 to 60 are eligible for conscription under it.

<h2>Fears and war</h2>

The campaign rallies Ukrainians to join the fight. One campaign slogan says "Bravery conquers fear".

Another quotes a Ukrainian soldier who fought in Bakhmut as saying, "Everyone has fears in a war. I do too."

In Ukraine, there have also been reports of corruption in the recruitment process. The Ukrainian military has been hit by a series of scandals involving graft or heavy-handed recruitment tactics.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-says-russian-terrorist-attacks-on-ukraine-a-threat-to-global-food-security-626222">Volodymyr Zelensky says Russian 'terrorist' attacks on Ukraine a threat to 'global food security'</a>

Pledging to stamp this alleged corruption out, Maliar said, "Trust between citizens and (recruiting centres) is important."

"Right now we're taking a step toward establishing this trust," she added, as per comments carried by an official military platform, and&nbsp;reported by Reuters.

This comes as, on Thursday, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree formalising last week's decision to fire all the heads of regional recruitment centres in Ukraine after a nationwide investigation revealed a number of corruption and abuse cases.

"This system should be run by people who know exactly what war is and why cynicism and bribery during war is treason," said Zelensky while signing the decree.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine on Thursday launched its latest military campaign that is rallying military-aged citizens to update their data at army enlistment offices and "overcome their fear".

Ukraine on Thursday launched its latest military campaign that is rallying military-aged citizens to update their data at army enlistment offices and "overcome their fear". This campaign comes as the war-torn nation's summer-offensive grinds through its third month. Major obstacle in army recruitment The campaign, as per Reuters, draws on sickly produced videos and photo testimonials of prominent soldiers expressing their fears. Using these testimonials, it tries to break down a major obstacle that the nation is facing in army recruitment. As the Russia-Ukraine war nears the 18-month mark, Ukraine is reportedly facing a tough challenge to recruit. Also read | Kyiv sounds defeatist, says 'won't be able' to use F-16 fighter jets this year Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar said that military-age citizens are duty bound to update their personal data at draft offices. "We're all living people, and we all overcome this fear in order to win," stated Deputy Defence Minister. However, the Ukrainian minister clarified that all those who update their information at drafting centres would not be mobilised automatically. She also said those citizens that do get mobilised would not necessarily end up in a combat zone. Following the launch of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declared a general mobilisation. Reuters reports that military reservists aged 18 to 60 are eligible for conscription under it. Fears and war The campaign rallies Ukrainians to join the fight. One campaign slogan says "Bravery conquers fear". Another quotes a Ukrainian soldier who fought in Bakhmut as saying, "Everyone has fears in a war. I do too." In Ukraine, there have also been reports of corruption in the recruitment process. The Ukrainian military has been hit by a series of scandals involving graft or heavy-handed recruitment tactics. Also read | Volodymyr Zelensky says Russian 'terrorist' attacks on Ukraine a threat to 'global food security' Pledging to stamp this alleged corruption out, Maliar said, "Trust between citizens and (recruiting centres) is important." "Right now we're taking a step toward establishing this trust," she added, as per comments carried by an official military platform, and reported by Reuters. This comes as, on Thursday, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree formalising last week's decision to fire all the heads of regional recruitment centres in Ukraine after a nationwide investigation revealed a number of corruption and abuse cases. "This system should be run by people who know exactly what war is and why cynicism and bribery during war is treason," said Zelensky while signing the decree. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine's new military recruitment campaign calls on citizens to 'overcome their fears'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (August 16) hailed the departure of the first cargo ship to Ukraine's southern port of Odesa, which happened despite Russian warnings that its navy could target ships utilising the Black Sea export hubs.&nbsp;

Zelensky said on social media: "Ukraine has just made an important step toward restoring the freedom of navigation in the Black Sea."&nbsp;

"The first civilian vessel has passed through Ukraine's new humanitarian corridor, departing from the port of Odesa," he added.&nbsp;

Last month, Russia suspended a Turkey and UN-brokered grain deal. It reiterated that it would return to the agreement "as soon as the West actually fulfils all the obligations to Russia" contained within it.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-says-russian-terrorist-attacks-on-ukraine-a-threat-to-global-food-security-626222">Volodymyr Zelensky says Russian 'terrorist' attacks on Ukraine a threat to 'global food security'</a>&nbsp;

Now food security has again become a central issue of global concern as the grain deal allowed Ukraine to export food through the Black Sea in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year on February 24.&nbsp;

Ukraine's Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov said that the Hong Kong-flagged Joseph Schulte left Wednesday morning from the port of Odesa.&nbsp;

"The first vessel is moving along the temporary corridors established for civilian vessels to and from Black Sea ports," he said.

Ukraine is known as the "breadbasket" to many countries as it is one of the world's biggest suppliers of sunflower oil, barley, maize and wheat.&nbsp;

However, the suspension of the grain deal caused severe effects on international food markets, with wheat prices rising sharply.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-ukrainian-captives-claim-they-were-brutally-tortured-by-russia-626049">Former Ukrainian captives claim they were brutally tortured by Russia</a>&nbsp;

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<h2>Russian strike on Ukrainian ports</h2>

After Russia exited from the accord in July, it stepped up attacks on Ukraine's Black Sea port infrastructure and facilities Kyiv uses to export grain through the Danube River.&nbsp;

In a televised address, Zelensky said there have now been seven "massive Russian attacks" after Moscow launched another strike, hitting Ukrainian ports overnight.&nbsp;

He said, "Basic things that provide a normal life to every society – it is food on the tables in households. No other terrorist in the world, apart from Russia, has ever so openly and intentionally targeted the security of so many nations at once."&nbsp;

<h2>US working to identify alternatives</h2>

The United States on Wednesday said it was working with partners to identify alternative options to ensure Ukrainian grain exports.&nbsp;

"The United States ... calls for Russia to immediately return to the Black Sea Grain Initiative," State Department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said in a briefing.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (August 16) hailed the departure of the first cargo ship to Ukraine's southern port of Odesa, which happened despite Russian warnings that its navy could target ships utilising the Black Sea export hubs.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (August 16) hailed the departure of the first cargo ship to Ukraine's southern port of Odesa, which happened despite Russian warnings that its navy could target ships utilising the Black Sea export hubs. Zelensky said on social media: "Ukraine has just made an important step toward restoring the freedom of navigation in the Black Sea." "The first civilian vessel has passed through Ukraine's new humanitarian corridor, departing from the port of Odesa," he added. Last month, Russia suspended a Turkey and UN-brokered grain deal. It reiterated that it would return to the agreement "as soon as the West actually fulfils all the obligations to Russia" contained within it. Also read: Volodymyr Zelensky says Russian 'terrorist' attacks on Ukraine a threat to 'global food security' Now food security has again become a central issue of global concern as the grain deal allowed Ukraine to export food through the Black Sea in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year on February 24. Ukraine's Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov said that the Hong Kong-flagged Joseph Schulte left Wednesday morning from the port of Odesa. "The first vessel is moving along the temporary corridors established for civilian vessels to and from Black Sea ports," he said. Ukraine is known as the "breadbasket" to many countries as it is one of the world's biggest suppliers of sunflower oil, barley, maize and wheat. However, the suspension of the grain deal caused severe effects on international food markets, with wheat prices rising sharply. Also read: Former Ukrainian captives claim they were brutally tortured by Russia × Russian strike on Ukrainian ports After Russia exited from the accord in July, it stepped up attacks on Ukraine's Black Sea port infrastructure and facilities Kyiv uses to export grain through the Danube River. In a televised address, Zelensky said there have now been seven "massive Russian attacks" after Moscow launched another strike, hitting Ukrainian ports overnight. He said, "Basic things that provide a normal life to every society – it is food on the tables in households. No other terrorist in the world, apart from Russia, has ever so openly and intentionally targeted the security of so many nations at once." US working to identify alternatives The United States on Wednesday said it was working with partners to identify alternative options to ensure Ukrainian grain exports. "The United States ... calls for Russia to immediately return to the Black Sea Grain Initiative," State Department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said in a briefing. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Zelensky hails first cargo ship in Black Sea since end of grain deal

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed on Wednesday (August 16) that Russian strikes have once again hit Ukrainian ports overnight.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h2>Massive Russian attack</h2>

Speaking during a televised address, Zelensky said that this attack marks the seventh "massive Russian attack" in "just one month," since Moscow withdrew from the UN-backed deal which allowed Kyiv to export grains.

"Last night, Russian terrorists once again deliberately hit our ports. They struck at our infrastructure that is involved in ensuring not just our own but the common global food security."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-ukrainian-captives-claim-they-were-brutally-tortured-by-russia-626049">Former Ukrainian captives claim they were brutally tortured by Russia</a>

"Port Reni, port Izmail, port Pivdennyi, port Odesa, port Chornomorsk, Mykolaiv – each Russian strike against them is a blow to world food prices, a blow to social and political stability in Africa, in Asia. Basic things that provide a normal life to every society – it is food on the tables in households."

"No other terrorist in the world, apart from Russia, has ever so openly and intentionally targeted the security of so many nations at once," added the Ukrainian President.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine: War-torn farmers in despair over rock-bottoms prices

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<h2>United States condemns Putin's Russia</h2>

Zelensky's statement comes as the United States condemning the continued attacks said it was working with partners to identify alternative options that will help ensure Ukrainian grain exports. The western power also criticised Russian President Vladimir Putin's lack of regard for global food security.

Speaking during a press briefing, US State Department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said that his country was seeking "to possibly find ways and corridors in which we can continue to get grain to the places it needs to go."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-launches-digital-rouble-to-evade-international-sanctions-625849">Russia launches digital rouble to evade international sanctions</a>

"The United States ... calls for Russia to immediately return to the Black Sea Grain Initiative," said Patel, adding that&nbsp;"Putin simply does not care about global food security."

Since it quit the grain deal on July 17, Russia has reportedly been carrying out regular airstrikes on Ukrainian ports and grain storage facilities. Escalating tensions in the region, Moscow has even threatened that ships leaving Ukraine could be treated as potential military targets.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed on Wednesday (August 16) that Russian strikes have once again hit Ukrainian ports overnight. Massive Russian attack Speaking during a televised address, Zelensky said that this attack marks the seventh "massive Russian attack" in "just one month," since Moscow withdrew from the UN-backed deal which allowed Kyiv to export grains.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed on Wednesday (August 16) that Russian strikes have once again hit Ukrainian ports overnight. Massive Russian attack Speaking during a televised address, Zelensky said that this attack marks the seventh "massive Russian attack" in "just one month," since Moscow withdrew from the UN-backed deal which allowed Kyiv to export grains. "Last night, Russian terrorists once again deliberately hit our ports. They struck at our infrastructure that is involved in ensuring not just our own but the common global food security." Also read | Former Ukrainian captives claim they were brutally tortured by Russia "Port Reni, port Izmail, port Pivdennyi, port Odesa, port Chornomorsk, Mykolaiv – each Russian strike against them is a blow to world food prices, a blow to social and political stability in Africa, in Asia. Basic things that provide a normal life to every society – it is food on the tables in households." "No other terrorist in the world, apart from Russia, has ever so openly and intentionally targeted the security of so many nations at once," added the Ukrainian President. Watch | Ukraine: War-torn farmers in despair over rock-bottoms prices United States condemns Putin's Russia Zelensky's statement comes as the United States condemning the continued attacks said it was working with partners to identify alternative options that will help ensure Ukrainian grain exports. The western power also criticised Russian President Vladimir Putin's lack of regard for global food security. Speaking during a press briefing, US State Department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said that his country was seeking "to possibly find ways and corridors in which we can continue to get grain to the places it needs to go." Also read | Russia launches digital rouble to evade international sanctions "The United States ... calls for Russia to immediately return to the Black Sea Grain Initiative," said Patel, adding that "Putin simply does not care about global food security." Since it quit the grain deal on July 17, Russia has reportedly been carrying out regular airstrikes on Ukrainian ports and grain storage facilities. Escalating tensions in the region, Moscow has even threatened that ships leaving Ukraine could be treated as potential military targets. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Volodymyr Zelensky says Russian 'terrorist' attacks on Ukraine a threat to 'global food security'

A day after his comments made headlines, Stian Jenssen, a senior NATO official, apologised for saying that Ukraine could give up territory to Russia in exchange for NATO membership and putting an end to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

<h2>The apology</h2>

Speaking to a Norwegian newspaper,&nbsp;Jenssen, the chief of staff to the NATO secretary general, Jens Stoltenberg said that he should not have spoken as simplistically as he did.

He also said that while the alliance members have been discussing ways to bring to an end the war that has already stretched for 18 months, any peace deal would have to be acceptable to Kyiv.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/natos-condition-for-ukraine-membership-hinges-on-territory-concession-to-russia-625815">NATO's condition for Ukraine: Membership hinges on territory concession to Russia</a>

"My statement about this was part of a larger discussion about possible future scenarios in Ukraine, and I shouldn’t have said it that way. It was a mistake," he told the Norwegian newspaper called VG.

Jenssen also stressed that his initial remarks were him just sharing an idea and said "It must be up to Ukraine to decide when and on what terms they want to negotiate".

A day earlier, VG had reported that during a panel debate in Arendal, Jenssen suggested, "I think that a solution could be for Ukraine to give up territory and get NATO&nbsp;membership in return".

Attempting to pacify the situation, a NATO spokesperson earlier said: "We will continue to support Ukraine as long as necessary, and we are committed to achieving a just and lasting peace. The position of the alliance is clear and has not changed."&nbsp;

<h2>No backsies</h2>

As per The Guardian, even as he clarified&nbsp;his comment, Jenssen did not walk back on his suggestion of a land-for-NATO-membership deal.&nbsp;

Instead, the chief of staff said that the military situation at the time and who holds control over which areas will "necessarily have a decisive influence," on serious peace talks whenever they happen.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-it-scrambled-mig-29-to-thwart-norways-attempt-of-potential-border-breach-625446">Russia claims it scrambled MiG-29 to thwart Norway's attempt of potential border breach</a>

He further attempted to emphasise that the alliance and its members are behind Ukraine and said "Precisely for this reason, it is crucially important that we support the Ukrainians with what they need".

<h2>Ukraine's stand</h2>

Kyiv has long advocated for the restoration of its borders, as recognised by the international community before 2014. The war-torn nation is currently involved in a counteroffensive to&nbsp;regain control of significant portions of its land that were taken captive by Russia.

Unhappy with Stoltenberg's close ally for even discussing the land-for-NATO-membership deal in public, Mykhailo Podolyak, a senior adviser to Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, said: "Trading territory for a Nato umbrella? It is ridiculous. That means deliberately choosing the defeat of democracy, encouraging a global criminal, preserving the Russian regime, destroying international law and passing the war on to other generations."

"If Putin does not suffer a crushing defeat, the political regime in Russia does not change and war criminals are not punished, the war will definitely return with Russia’s appetite for more," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A day after his comments made headlines, Stian Jenssen, a senior NATO official, apologised for saying that Ukraine could give up territory to Russia in exchange for NATO membership and putting an end to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

A day after his comments made headlines, Stian Jenssen, a senior NATO official, apologised for saying that Ukraine could give up territory to Russia in exchange for NATO membership and putting an end to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The apology Speaking to a Norwegian newspaper, Jenssen, the chief of staff to the NATO secretary general, Jens Stoltenberg said that he should not have spoken as simplistically as he did. He also said that while the alliance members have been discussing ways to bring to an end the war that has already stretched for 18 months, any peace deal would have to be acceptable to Kyiv. Also read | NATO's condition for Ukraine: Membership hinges on territory concession to Russia "My statement about this was part of a larger discussion about possible future scenarios in Ukraine, and I shouldn’t have said it that way. It was a mistake," he told the Norwegian newspaper called VG. Jenssen also stressed that his initial remarks were him just sharing an idea and said "It must be up to Ukraine to decide when and on what terms they want to negotiate". A day earlier, VG had reported that during a panel debate in Arendal, Jenssen suggested, "I think that a solution could be for Ukraine to give up territory and get NATO membership in return". Attempting to pacify the situation, a NATO spokesperson earlier said: "We will continue to support Ukraine as long as necessary, and we are committed to achieving a just and lasting peace. The position of the alliance is clear and has not changed." No backsies As per The Guardian, even as he clarified his comment, Jenssen did not walk back on his suggestion of a land-for-NATO-membership deal. Instead, the chief of staff said that the military situation at the time and who holds control over which areas will "necessarily have a decisive influence," on serious peace talks whenever they happen. Also read | Russia claims it scrambled MiG-29 to thwart Norway's attempt of potential border breach He further attempted to emphasise that the alliance and its members are behind Ukraine and said "Precisely for this reason, it is crucially important that we support the Ukrainians with what they need". Ukraine's stand Kyiv has long advocated for the restoration of its borders, as recognised by the international community before 2014. The war-torn nation is currently involved in a counteroffensive to regain control of significant portions of its land that were taken captive by Russia. Unhappy with Stoltenberg's close ally for even discussing the land-for-NATO-membership deal in public, Mykhailo Podolyak, a senior adviser to Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, said: "Trading territory for a Nato umbrella? It is ridiculous. That means deliberately choosing the defeat of democracy, encouraging a global criminal, preserving the Russian regime, destroying international law and passing the war on to other generations." "If Putin does not suffer a crushing defeat, the political regime in Russia does not change and war criminals are not punished, the war will definitely return with Russia’s appetite for more," he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NATO official apologises for contentious land-for-NATO-membership remark

Russia on Tuesday started consumer testing of its new e-currency, the digital rouble. Utilising blockchain technology, the nation, which has for&nbsp;almost 540 days been&nbsp;engaged in a war with neighbouring nation Ukraine, intends to bypass international sanctions and also tighten control over its citizens.

This testing phase of the digital Rouble coincides with the Russian currency falling to its lowest position against the dollar since March 2022 — a month after the launch of its military campaign in Ukraine.

<h2>Strategic evasion</h2>

AFP reports that while Russia has been contemplating the launch of a digital currency for years, its inception actually gained momentum after Western sanctions on the nation's access to the global banking system.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-to-boycott-2024-paris-olympics-if-russians-are-allowed-to-compete-pm-625787">Ukraine to boycott 2024 Paris Olympics if Russians are allowed to compete: PM</a>

Joining the ranks of 20 other nations globally, Russia's launch of the digital currency pilot phase aims to make its financial system more flexible while limiting the impact of international sanctions.

Speaking to the news agency, Mikkel Morch, founder of crypto-focused investment fund ARK36, said,&nbsp;"It will enhance Russia's ability to evade sanctions".

<h2>Russia and sanctions</h2>

Following the launch of its military offensive, Russia was at the receiving end of many sanctions, including ones that banned many Russian banks from the main system used for international transactions. This put Moscow in a vulnerable position and pushed the nation towards innovating ways to 'de-dollarise'.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/natos-condition-for-ukraine-membership-hinges-on-territory-concession-to-russia-625815">NATO's condition for Ukraine: Membership hinges on territory concession to Russia</a>

Morch said that the digital currency will help Russia bypass banks and restrictions. Blockchain is "much less easy to sanction and attack," he said, adding that the launch is "part of a geopolitical war between pro-dollar countries and anti-dollar countries".

<h2>Concerns and more</h2>

As per Morch, the launch will give the government "immense control" over citizens and it could be used as "the ultimate social control tool."

Meanwhile, some NGOs have also voiced their concerns. AFP reports that the Atlantic Council has&nbsp;warned: "In the wrong hands, this data could be used to spy on citizens' private transactions."

Russians too are reportedly not convinced and remain sceptical. A survey by state-owned pollster VCIOM revealed that approximately six out of ten Russians have a "weak understanding" of the government's motives and are hesitant to embrace the currency.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia on Tuesday started consumer testing of its new e-currency, the digital rouble. Utilising blockchain technology, the nation, which has for almost 540 days been engaged in a war with neighbouring nation Ukraine, intends to bypass international sanctions and also tighten control over its citizens.

Russia on Tuesday started consumer testing of its new e-currency, the digital rouble. Utilising blockchain technology, the nation, which has for almost 540 days been engaged in a war with neighbouring nation Ukraine, intends to bypass international sanctions and also tighten control over its citizens. This testing phase of the digital Rouble coincides with the Russian currency falling to its lowest position against the dollar since March 2022 — a month after the launch of its military campaign in Ukraine. Strategic evasion AFP reports that while Russia has been contemplating the launch of a digital currency for years, its inception actually gained momentum after Western sanctions on the nation's access to the global banking system. Also read | Ukraine to boycott 2024 Paris Olympics if Russians are allowed to compete: PM Joining the ranks of 20 other nations globally, Russia's launch of the digital currency pilot phase aims to make its financial system more flexible while limiting the impact of international sanctions. Speaking to the news agency, Mikkel Morch, founder of crypto-focused investment fund ARK36, said, "It will enhance Russia's ability to evade sanctions". Russia and sanctions Following the launch of its military offensive, Russia was at the receiving end of many sanctions, including ones that banned many Russian banks from the main system used for international transactions. This put Moscow in a vulnerable position and pushed the nation towards innovating ways to 'de-dollarise'. Also read | NATO's condition for Ukraine: Membership hinges on territory concession to Russia Morch said that the digital currency will help Russia bypass banks and restrictions. Blockchain is "much less easy to sanction and attack," he said, adding that the launch is "part of a geopolitical war between pro-dollar countries and anti-dollar countries". Concerns and more As per Morch, the launch will give the government "immense control" over citizens and it could be used as "the ultimate social control tool." Meanwhile, some NGOs have also voiced their concerns. AFP reports that the Atlantic Council has warned: "In the wrong hands, this data could be used to spy on citizens' private transactions." Russians too are reportedly not convinced and remain sceptical. A survey by state-owned pollster VCIOM revealed that approximately six out of ten Russians have a "weak understanding" of the government's motives and are hesitant to embrace the currency. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia launches digital rouble to evade international sanctions

In a bid to bolster war-torn Ukraine's "immediate battlefield needs and longer-term security assistance requirements", the United States's Department of Defense (DoD) on Monday (August 14th) announced a new arms and equipment aid package valued at around $200 million to help "Ukrainian armed forces in the fight to defend their country's sovereignty, territory, and people."&nbsp;

<h2>Continuing aid</h2>

As per the US Defence website, this latest instalment is the 44th "tranche of equipment to be provided from DoD inventories for Ukraine since August 2021."

"The United States will continue to work with its Allies and partners to provide Ukraine with capabilities to meet its immediate battlefield needs and longer-term security assistance requirements," says a statement on the Department of Defense website.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-crude-oil-exports-to-india-gave-moscow-far-more-money-than-previously-recognised-625387">Russia's crude oil exports to India gave Moscow far more money than previously recognised</a>

The aid package, which includes additional air defence munitions, artillery and tank ammunition, anti-armour weapons, and other equipment, will help Ukraine fortify its defensive capabilities on multiple fronts and "counter Russia's ongoing war of aggression."

It comes as the Russia-Ukraine war crosses the 535-day mark. Announcing the aid package on X, formerly Twitter, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said:&nbsp;"Today we are announcing deliveries of $200 million worth of arms and equipment for Ukraine. Air defense, anti-armor, and munitions will keep the Ukrainian armed forces in the fight to defend their country's sovereignty, territory, and people."

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Today we are announcing deliveries of $200 million worth of arms and equipment for Ukraine. Air defense, anti-armor, and munitions will keep the Ukrainian armed forces in the fight to defend their country's sovereignty, territory, and people.
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken/status/1691102762203787264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>What does the $200 million assistance include?</h2>

The assistance includes a variety of munitions, equipment, and weaponry, including additional munitions for Patriot air defence systems, extra ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), mine clearing equipment and systems, and both 155mm and 105mm artillery rounds.

Also included are 120mm tank ammunition; tube-launched, optically-tracked, wire-guided (TOW) missiles; Javelin and other anti-armour systems and rockets; 37 tactical vehicles to tow and haul equipment; 58 water trailers; over 12 million rounds of small arms ammunition and grenades; demolitions munitions for obstacle clearing; and spare parts, maintenance, and other field equipment.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-it-scrambled-mig-29-to-thwart-norways-attempt-of-potential-border-breach-625446">Russia claims it scrambled MiG-29 to thwart Norway's attempt of potential border breach</a>

As per a statement published on the US Defence website, the latest allocation of war supplies was made&nbsp;as part of the assistance previously allocated under the Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) for Ukraine. It utilises resources that "remained after the PDA revaluation process concluded in June," added the statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a bid to bolster war-torn Ukraine's "immediate battlefield needs and longer-term security assistance requirements", the United States's Department of Defense (DoD) on Monday (August 14th) announced a new arms and equipment aid package valued at around $200 million to help "Ukrainian armed forces in the fight to defend their country's sovereignty, territory, and people.

In a bid to bolster war-torn Ukraine's "immediate battlefield needs and longer-term security assistance requirements", the United States's Department of Defense (DoD) on Monday (August 14th) announced a new arms and equipment aid package valued at around $200 million to help "Ukrainian armed forces in the fight to defend their country's sovereignty, territory, and people." Continuing aid As per the US Defence website, this latest instalment is the 44th "tranche of equipment to be provided from DoD inventories for Ukraine since August 2021." "The United States will continue to work with its Allies and partners to provide Ukraine with capabilities to meet its immediate battlefield needs and longer-term security assistance requirements," says a statement on the Department of Defense website. Also read | Russia's crude oil exports to India gave Moscow far more money than previously recognised The aid package, which includes additional air defence munitions, artillery and tank ammunition, anti-armour weapons, and other equipment, will help Ukraine fortify its defensive capabilities on multiple fronts and "counter Russia's ongoing war of aggression." It comes as the Russia-Ukraine war crosses the 535-day mark. Announcing the aid package on X, formerly Twitter, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said: "Today we are announcing deliveries of $200 million worth of arms and equipment for Ukraine. Air defense, anti-armor, and munitions will keep the Ukrainian armed forces in the fight to defend their country's sovereignty, territory, and people." Today we are announcing deliveries of $200 million worth of arms and equipment for Ukraine. Air defense, anti-armor, and munitions will keep the Ukrainian armed forces in the fight to defend their country's sovereignty, territory, and people. — Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) August 14, 2023 × What does the $200 million assistance include? The assistance includes a variety of munitions, equipment, and weaponry, including additional munitions for Patriot air defence systems, extra ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), mine clearing equipment and systems, and both 155mm and 105mm artillery rounds. Also included are 120mm tank ammunition; tube-launched, optically-tracked, wire-guided (TOW) missiles; Javelin and other anti-armour systems and rockets; 37 tactical vehicles to tow and haul equipment; 58 water trailers; over 12 million rounds of small arms ammunition and grenades; demolitions munitions for obstacle clearing; and spare parts, maintenance, and other field equipment. Also read | Russia claims it scrambled MiG-29 to thwart Norway's attempt of potential border breach As per a statement published on the US Defence website, the latest allocation of war supplies was made as part of the assistance previously allocated under the Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) for Ukraine. It utilises resources that "remained after the PDA revaluation process concluded in June," added the statement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US allocates arms worth $200 million to help Ukraine counter 'Russia's ongoing war of aggression'

The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) said on Monday (August 7) that a woman has been detained over an alleged plot of attacking President Volodymyr Zelensky when he visited a flood-hit region.&nbsp;

SBU said that the woman, who hasn't been named, is a Russian informant "who was preparing an airstrike in the Mykolaiv region during the visit of the President of Ukraine".&nbsp;

According to the SBU, the alleged informant "on the eve of the recent trip of the President of Ukraine to Mykolaiv region, was gathering intelligence about the planned visit."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/cape-town-taxi-strike-at-least-2-killed-3-injured-amid-clashes-uk-and-australia-issue-travel-warnings-623182">At least three killed after Russian shelling in Kherson, Kharkiv region: Ukraine</a>&nbsp;

&nbsp;
The security service also said that she "tried to establish the time and list of locations of the approximate route of the Head of State in the territory of the region."&nbsp;


However, her efforts were thwarted as SBU agents had obtained information about the "subversive activities of the suspect" and they took necessary action and they put in additional security measures during Zelensky's visit.&nbsp;

The SBU also said that she was seeking data on the location of electronic warfare systems and warehouses with ammunition of the armed forces.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-evacuate-village-ahead-of-first-lunar-mission-launch-in-50-years-this-week-heres-why-623156">Russia to evacuate village ahead of first lunar mission launch in 50 years: Here's why</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine making small gains with Western equipment&nbsp;

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The Ukrainian officers were monitoring the woman in order to get more information on her Russian handlers and her assignments.

The SBU said that she was caught "red-handed" by the officers as she attempted to pass intelligence data to the Russian secret services.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian security agency said that the woman lived in the small southern town of Ochakiv in the Mykolaiv region and formerly worked in a store at a military base there.&nbsp;

According to the SBU, she allegedly photographed locations and tried to get information from personal contacts in the area.&nbsp;

She may face a charge of unauthorised dissemination of information about the movements of weapons and troops. If convicted, she could serve up to 12 years in prison.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) said on Monday (August 7) that a woman has been detained over an alleged plot of attacking President Volodymyr Zelensky when he visited a flood-hit region.

The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) said on Monday (August 7) that a woman has been detained over an alleged plot of attacking President Volodymyr Zelensky when he visited a flood-hit region. SBU said that the woman, who hasn't been named, is a Russian informant "who was preparing an airstrike in the Mykolaiv region during the visit of the President of Ukraine". According to the SBU, the alleged informant "on the eve of the recent trip of the President of Ukraine to Mykolaiv region, was gathering intelligence about the planned visit." Also read: At least three killed after Russian shelling in Kherson, Kharkiv region: Ukraine The security service also said that she "tried to establish the time and list of locations of the approximate route of the Head of State in the territory of the region." However, her efforts were thwarted as SBU agents had obtained information about the "subversive activities of the suspect" and they took necessary action and they put in additional security measures during Zelensky's visit. The SBU also said that she was seeking data on the location of electronic warfare systems and warehouses with ammunition of the armed forces. Also read: Russia to evacuate village ahead of first lunar mission launch in 50 years: Here's why Watch: Ukraine making small gains with Western equipment × The Ukrainian officers were monitoring the woman in order to get more information on her Russian handlers and her assignments. The SBU said that she was caught "red-handed" by the officers as she attempted to pass intelligence data to the Russian secret services. The Ukrainian security agency said that the woman lived in the small southern town of Ochakiv in the Mykolaiv region and formerly worked in a store at a military base there. According to the SBU, she allegedly photographed locations and tried to get information from personal contacts in the area. She may face a charge of unauthorised dissemination of information about the movements of weapons and troops. If convicted, she could serve up to 12 years in prison. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Zelensky assassination plot thwarted? Ukraine detains woman over alleged plan to attack president

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Russia carried out the attack on one of the blood transfusion centres of the country, and&nbsp;termed the fatal strike as a “war crime”. 
 
Meanwhile, a key factory was struck in a separate attack as the two incidents on Saturday took place just hours after a Russian tanker was hit in the Kerch Strait by Kyiv. 
 
The attacks were the latest since Moscow exited a deal last month which would have ensured Ukraine can still export grain amid the&nbsp;ongoing conflict.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-it-captured-settlement-in-northeastern-ukraine-622700">Russia claims it captured&nbsp;settlement in northeastern Ukraine</a>

The blood transfusion centre in north-east Ukraine's Kharkiv region was struck by Russian forces, said Zelensky, adding that “dead and wounded are reported”. 
 
A “guided air bomb” blew up the centre in Kupiansk, a city which is a few dozen kilometres away from the Russian border, he stated. “Rescuers are extinguishing the fire,” the Ukrainian president wrote on social media, adding: “This war crime alone says everything about Russian aggression.”

<h2>War escalates</h2>

The strike took place shortly after Zelensky confirmed Russian missiles struck a factory which belonged to Motor Sich, the company that makes plane and helicopter engines and other components. 
 
It is one of the many companies which has been requisitioned by the Ukraine government since the invasion of Moscow. The site is located near Khmelnytskyi in western Ukraine, which is at a distance of 300km (190 miles) from the south-west of Kyiv. 
 
The region, which houses a major Ukrainian airbase, has faced regular strikes by Russia in recent months. Zelensky, in his evening address, remained defiant, insisting that “no matter how many such Russian attacks there are, they will still do nothing for the enemy”.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas | Ukraine War: Poland rushes troops to its border with Belarus | Is the war expanding?

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Ukraine earlier on Saturday claimed to have “blown up” a Russian tanker, called the Sig, which was transporting fuel for Russian troops, said a Ukrainian security source, while speaking to AFP. 
 
The tanker was targetted at around 11:20 pm (20:20 GMT) on Friday (August 4) south of the Kerch Strait, said Russia’s Federal Agency for Sea and Inland Water Transport. The ship was hit&nbsp;in the area of the engine room when it was at the waterline but was still afloat, the agency stated. 
 
In the video of the attack which was seen by AFP, a vessel was seen approaching a big ship before the connection was broken. Ukrainian source said the “successful special operation”, which involved explosives and a naval drone was jointly carried out with the navy in Ukrainian territorial waters.

<h2 data-label="Package" data-qa-component="item-headline" dir="auto" title="Russia officials say Ukraine hit Donetsk university with cluster shells">Russia claims Ukraine's&nbsp;cluster shells&nbsp;hit Donetsk university&nbsp;</h2>

The wooden roof of a university building was engulfed in flames in Donetsk after&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;shelled bombs&nbsp;on Saturday (August 5), stated an emergency official in the Russia-controlled city in eastern Ukraine.

"As a result of the latest attack on Donetsk, the first building of the University of Economics and Trade is on fire," said Alexei Kulemzin, the Russia-installed mayor, on Telegram.

"We are using 12 water tanks, three ladders and 100 fire fighters," added Alexei Kostrubitsky, the Russia-installed emergency minister for the region that Moscow calls the Donetsk People's Republic. "The whole roof is on fire," he said.&nbsp;

Kostrubitsky alleged&nbsp;cluster munitions were used by Ukrainian forces&nbsp;in the shelling which caused the blaze.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Russia carried out the attack on one of the blood transfusion centres of the country, and termed the fatal strike as a “war crime”.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Russia carried out the attack on one of the blood transfusion centres of the country, and termed the fatal strike as a “war crime”. Meanwhile, a key factory was struck in a separate attack as the two incidents on Saturday took place just hours after a Russian tanker was hit in the Kerch Strait by Kyiv. The attacks were the latest since Moscow exited a deal last month which would have ensured Ukraine can still export grain amid the ongoing conflict. ALSO READ | Russia claims it captured settlement in northeastern Ukraine The blood transfusion centre in north-east Ukraine's Kharkiv region was struck by Russian forces, said Zelensky, adding that “dead and wounded are reported”. A “guided air bomb” blew up the centre in Kupiansk, a city which is a few dozen kilometres away from the Russian border, he stated. “Rescuers are extinguishing the fire,” the Ukrainian president wrote on social media, adding: “This war crime alone says everything about Russian aggression.” War escalates The strike took place shortly after Zelensky confirmed Russian missiles struck a factory which belonged to Motor Sich, the company that makes plane and helicopter engines and other components. It is one of the many companies which has been requisitioned by the Ukraine government since the invasion of Moscow. The site is located near Khmelnytskyi in western Ukraine, which is at a distance of 300km (190 miles) from the south-west of Kyiv. The region, which houses a major Ukrainian airbase, has faced regular strikes by Russia in recent months. Zelensky, in his evening address, remained defiant, insisting that “no matter how many such Russian attacks there are, they will still do nothing for the enemy”. WATCH | Gravitas | Ukraine War: Poland rushes troops to its border with Belarus | Is the war expanding? Ukraine earlier on Saturday claimed to have “blown up” a Russian tanker, called the Sig, which was transporting fuel for Russian troops, said a Ukrainian security source, while speaking to AFP. The tanker was targetted at around 11:20 pm (20:20 GMT) on Friday (August 4) south of the Kerch Strait, said Russia’s Federal Agency for Sea and Inland Water Transport. The ship was hit in the area of the engine room when it was at the waterline but was still afloat, the agency stated. In the video of the attack which was seen by AFP, a vessel was seen approaching a big ship before the connection was broken. Ukrainian source said the “successful special operation”, which involved explosives and a naval drone was jointly carried out with the navy in Ukrainian territorial waters. Russia claims Ukraine's cluster shells hit Donetsk university The wooden roof of a university building was engulfed in flames in Donetsk after Ukraine shelled bombs on Saturday (August 5), stated an emergency official in the Russia-controlled city in eastern Ukraine. "As a result of the latest attack on Donetsk, the first building of the University of Economics and Trade is on fire," said Alexei Kulemzin, the Russia-installed mayor, on Telegram. "We are using 12 water tanks, three ladders and 100 fire fighters," added Alexei Kostrubitsky, the Russia-installed emergency minister for the region that Moscow calls the Donetsk People's Republic. "The whole roof is on fire," he said. Kostrubitsky alleged cluster munitions were used by Ukrainian forces in the shelling which caused the blaze. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Zelensky slams Russia's attack on blood transfusion centre, terms it ‘war crime’

Ukraine's authorities on Wednesday said they conducted a search at the home of a member of parliament, Yuriy Aristov, who allegedly violated war-time restrictions by going on holiday abroad for personal reasons.&nbsp;

Investigators found evidence suggesting that Aristov travelled to Lithuania initially for a work-related trip, but then allegedly faked sick leave to go on&nbsp;vacation in&nbsp;a luxurious hotel in the Maldives with his family.

<h2>A holiday amid war</h2>

According to the SBU security service, the Ukrainian minister disguised his travel as a "business trip," raising suspicions about his motives and actions.&nbsp;

The case came to light after a news report exposed the MP's travel, leading to strong reactions from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who expressed vehement disapproval.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kyrylo-tymoshenko-deputy-head-of-ukraines-presidential-office-resigns-555411">Five regional governors, four deputy ministers dismissed over corruption scandal in Ukraine</a>

Condemning the behaviour, President Zelensky on Tuesday, said,&nbsp;"For some, it's about islands and resorts during the war, for others it's about lining one's pockets in the military enlistment office, for others it's about bribes in the courts."&nbsp;

He further emphasized that "any internal betrayal, any 'breach' or any personal enrichment instead of Ukraine's interests triggers fury," and would not be tolerated.

<h2>A case against the holidaying minister</h2>

Following the investigation, authorities have now opened a case against Yuriy Aristov, who also held the position of deputy chairman of the Committee on National Security, Defence, and Intelligence on charges of forgery.&nbsp;

The charge, as per news agency AFP report citing the State Bureau of Investigation, could result in a prison sentence of up to three years.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> police searched the home of MP "<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maldives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maldives</a> Aristov". 
 
Yesterday it was revealed Yuriy Aristov had been staying in one of the world's most expensive hotels in the luxury Indian Ocean resort. 
Last night <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZelenskyyUa</a> ordered all MPs/officials to stay in Ukraine. <a href="https://t.co/6RkILtZ7eg">pic.twitter.com/6RkILtZ7eg</a>
— Tim White (@TWMCLtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/TWMCLtd/status/1684102876141076482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In light of the scandal, Ukraine's parliament is reportedly now set to vote on Aristov's resignation.

This incident adds to a series of scandals involving high-ranking Ukrainian officials that have rocked the war-torn nation recently.

Just a few days back, Ukraine detained Yevhen Borisov, a former official from the southern Odesa region, on accusations of accepting bribes in exchange for exempting certain individuals from military conscription.

In January, the nation's Deputy Minister of Development of Communities, Territories and Infrastructure, Vasyl Lozynkiy for allegedly accepting $400,000 bribe "to facilitate the conclusion of contracts for the purchase of equipment and generators at inflated prices".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine's authorities on Wednesday said they conducted a search at the home of a member of parliament, Yuriy Aristov, who allegedly violated war-time restrictions by going on holiday abroad for personal reasons.

Ukraine's authorities on Wednesday said they conducted a search at the home of a member of parliament, Yuriy Aristov, who allegedly violated war-time restrictions by going on holiday abroad for personal reasons. Investigators found evidence suggesting that Aristov travelled to Lithuania initially for a work-related trip, but then allegedly faked sick leave to go on vacation in a luxurious hotel in the Maldives with his family. A holiday amid war According to the SBU security service, the Ukrainian minister disguised his travel as a "business trip," raising suspicions about his motives and actions. The case came to light after a news report exposed the MP's travel, leading to strong reactions from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who expressed vehement disapproval. Also read | Five regional governors, four deputy ministers dismissed over corruption scandal in Ukraine Condemning the behaviour, President Zelensky on Tuesday, said, "For some, it's about islands and resorts during the war, for others it's about lining one's pockets in the military enlistment office, for others it's about bribes in the courts." He further emphasized that "any internal betrayal, any 'breach' or any personal enrichment instead of Ukraine's interests triggers fury," and would not be tolerated. A case against the holidaying minister Following the investigation, authorities have now opened a case against Yuriy Aristov, who also held the position of deputy chairman of the Committee on National Security, Defence, and Intelligence on charges of forgery. The charge, as per news agency AFP report citing the State Bureau of Investigation, could result in a prison sentence of up to three years. #Ukraine police searched the home of MP "#Maldives Aristov". Yesterday it was revealed Yuriy Aristov had been staying in one of the world's most expensive hotels in the luxury Indian Ocean resort. Last night @ZelenskyyUa ordered all MPs/officials to stay in Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/6RkILtZ7eg — Tim White (@TWMCLtd) July 26, 2023 × Also read | Vladimir Putin promises free grain to African leaders despite Western sanctions In light of the scandal, Ukraine's parliament is reportedly now set to vote on Aristov's resignation. This incident adds to a series of scandals involving high-ranking Ukrainian officials that have rocked the war-torn nation recently. Just a few days back, Ukraine detained Yevhen Borisov, a former official from the southern Odesa region, on accusations of accepting bribes in exchange for exempting certain individuals from military conscription. In January, the nation's Deputy Minister of Development of Communities, Territories and Infrastructure, Vasyl Lozynkiy for allegedly accepting $400,000 bribe "to facilitate the conclusion of contracts for the purchase of equipment and generators at inflated prices". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine MP faces investigation for allegedly faking sick leave to holiday abroad during wartime restrictions

Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's aide has been imprisoned for nine years on "extremism" charges. On Monday, Navalny's organisation announced that Vadim Ostanin has been jailed in the latest case sidelining critics of Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

<h2>Who is Vadim Ostanin?</h2>

Reuters reports that Ostanin was the head of opposition leader Navalny's office in Barnaul.&nbsp;

As per the jailed opposition leader's team, he carried out "legal political work".&nbsp;

Ostanin was detained in December 2021 and Navalny's team alleges that he was pressured by investigators to confess to being guilty. However, he refused.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-critic-alexei-navalny-faces-decades-in-prison-for-rehabilitating-nazi-ideology-and-other-crimes-605858">Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny faces decades in prison for 'rehabilitating Nazi ideology' and other crimes</a>

AFP reports that he has now been sentenced in the Siberian city for "participating in an extremist" organisation. As Russia intensified its crackdown on people and organisations&nbsp;in dissent of the Russian President,&nbsp;Alexei Navalny's organisations were banned.

Ostanin, who is a trained lawyer, is now awaiting a verdict on the new "extremist" charges. If found guilty, he could see his jail term extended by another 20 years.

<h2>Russia's crackdown on Putin critics</h2>

Ever since the Russia-Ukraine war began with Russian President Vladimir Putin's announcement of a "special military operation" on February 24th, 2022, authorities in Moscow have clamped down heavily on any signs of dissent.

Taking the crackdown on freedom to a new level, as per AFP, Russia has shut down independent media and in 2021, as the crackdown intensified, Navalny's organisations were banned.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-drone-attacks-destroy-odesas-grain-depot-ukraine-618938">Russian drones destroyed Odesa’s grain depot: Ukraine</a>

In a similar charge, earlier this month, Lilia Chanysheva, another ally of the jailed Kremlin critic, was sentenced to seven years and six months in prison. Chanysheva is the former coordinator of Navalny's headquarters in Ufa in central Russia.

This new case against the opposition leader comes amidst an escalated crackdown in Moscow, where over a year into the country's offensive in Ukraine, numerous key opposition figures, like Alexei Navalny, have been put behind bars or are in exile.

<h2>Rough treatment</h2>

Many jailed figures, including Navalny, have alleged that they're being kept in deplorable conditions. Ostanin too has described his detention in Barnaul as unsanitary, saying that there were insects and rodents like rats in his cell.&nbsp;

As per Navalny's team, Ostanin has lost some 15 kilogrammes (33 pounds) while in custody. He has allegedly also suffered from back and neck pain, and was denied access to medication for his ailments. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's aide has been imprisoned for nine years on "extremism" charges. On Monday, Navalny's organisation announced that Vadim Ostanin has been jailed in the latest case sidelining critics of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's aide has been imprisoned for nine years on "extremism" charges. On Monday, Navalny's organisation announced that Vadim Ostanin has been jailed in the latest case sidelining critics of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Who is Vadim Ostanin? Reuters reports that Ostanin was the head of opposition leader Navalny's office in Barnaul. As per the jailed opposition leader's team, he carried out "legal political work". Ostanin was detained in December 2021 and Navalny's team alleges that he was pressured by investigators to confess to being guilty. However, he refused. Also read | Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny faces decades in prison for 'rehabilitating Nazi ideology' and other crimes AFP reports that he has now been sentenced in the Siberian city for "participating in an extremist" organisation. As Russia intensified its crackdown on people and organisations in dissent of the Russian President, Alexei Navalny's organisations were banned. Ostanin, who is a trained lawyer, is now awaiting a verdict on the new "extremist" charges. If found guilty, he could see his jail term extended by another 20 years. Russia's crackdown on Putin critics Ever since the Russia-Ukraine war began with Russian President Vladimir Putin's announcement of a "special military operation" on February 24th, 2022, authorities in Moscow have clamped down heavily on any signs of dissent. Taking the crackdown on freedom to a new level, as per AFP, Russia has shut down independent media and in 2021, as the crackdown intensified, Navalny's organisations were banned. Also read | Russian drones destroyed Odesa’s grain depot: Ukraine In a similar charge, earlier this month, Lilia Chanysheva, another ally of the jailed Kremlin critic, was sentenced to seven years and six months in prison. Chanysheva is the former coordinator of Navalny's headquarters in Ufa in central Russia. This new case against the opposition leader comes amidst an escalated crackdown in Moscow, where over a year into the country's offensive in Ukraine, numerous key opposition figures, like Alexei Navalny, have been put behind bars or are in exile. Rough treatment Many jailed figures, including Navalny, have alleged that they're being kept in deplorable conditions. Ostanin too has described his detention in Barnaul as unsanitary, saying that there were insects and rodents like rats in his cell. As per Navalny's team, Ostanin has lost some 15 kilogrammes (33 pounds) while in custody. He has allegedly also suffered from back and neck pain, and was denied access to medication for his ailments. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Crackdown on Putin critics: Navalny’s aide imprisoned for 'participating in an extremist' organisation

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (July 21) said that the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target.

On Monday, two civilians were killed and a part of the road bridge was out of service after explosions took place on the Crimea bridge. The bridge had recently got back into full operation after it was damaged severely in a similar attack in October. 
 
The attack that took place on Monday was welcomed by Ukraine, however, their officials did not claim any direct responsibility, while Moscow blamed Kyiv. Russia had annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 and Kyiv wishes&nbsp;to reclaim it as it continues to fight back against the 17-month-long full-scale invasion by&nbsp;Russia.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-to-spread-poland-to-move-soldiers-to-east-due-to-wagner-risks-618116">Will Ukraine war expand to other regions? Poland moving troops over Wagner risk from Belarus</a>

The rail and road bridge, which was constructed by Russia and came into service in 2018 was "not just a logistical road", stated Zelensky, while speaking at the Aspen Security Conference in the United States through a video link. 
 
"This is the route used to feed the war with ammunition and this is being done on a daily basis. And it militarises the Crimean peninsula," said Zelensky, in his address as heard through an interpreter. 
 
"For us, this is understandably an enemy facility built outside international laws and all applicable norms. So, understandably, this is a target for us. And a target that is bringing war, not peace, has to be neutralised,” he added.

<h2>'Crimea bridge attack not linked to grain export deal'</h2>

Replying to questions raised through a moderator, Zelensky denied any link between the withdrawal of Russia from a UN-backed deal to export grain from Ukrainian ports and the attack on the Crimea bridge. 
 
He said that the operation of the grain corridor was hindered by Russia from the very start.

WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine forces struggle to counter Russia's 'Oink' missile

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"And later, they took this situation around the Crimea bridge, using it just as an example. If not the Crimea bridge, they would have found another example, another reason,” he said. 
 
The long-anticipated counteroffensive of the Ukrainian military, which was launched last month, took time to prepare as several defensive lines were set up by Russian occupying forces and Ukrainian territory was extensively mined, said Zelensky. 
 
President Zelensky further reiterated his previous assessment about the counteroffensive moving more slowly as he would want. "Ukraine is not backtracking. It is progressively liberating its territories, which is very important. Still, I believe we are approaching a moment when relevant actions can gain pace. I do understand it is better to see that victory comes sooner. This is what we want too,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (July 21) said that the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (July 21) said that the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target. On Monday, two civilians were killed and a part of the road bridge was out of service after explosions took place on the Crimea bridge. The bridge had recently got back into full operation after it was damaged severely in a similar attack in October. The attack that took place on Monday was welcomed by Ukraine, however, their officials did not claim any direct responsibility, while Moscow blamed Kyiv. Russia had annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 and Kyiv wishes to reclaim it as it continues to fight back against the 17-month-long full-scale invasion by Russia. ALSO READ | Will Ukraine war expand to other regions? Poland moving troops over Wagner risk from Belarus The rail and road bridge, which was constructed by Russia and came into service in 2018 was "not just a logistical road", stated Zelensky, while speaking at the Aspen Security Conference in the United States through a video link. "This is the route used to feed the war with ammunition and this is being done on a daily basis. And it militarises the Crimean peninsula," said Zelensky, in his address as heard through an interpreter. "For us, this is understandably an enemy facility built outside international laws and all applicable norms. So, understandably, this is a target for us. And a target that is bringing war, not peace, has to be neutralised,” he added. 'Crimea bridge attack not linked to grain export deal' Replying to questions raised through a moderator, Zelensky denied any link between the withdrawal of Russia from a UN-backed deal to export grain from Ukrainian ports and the attack on the Crimea bridge. He said that the operation of the grain corridor was hindered by Russia from the very start. WATCH | Ukraine forces struggle to counter Russia's 'Oink' missile "And later, they took this situation around the Crimea bridge, using it just as an example. If not the Crimea bridge, they would have found another example, another reason,” he said. The long-anticipated counteroffensive of the Ukrainian military, which was launched last month, took time to prepare as several defensive lines were set up by Russian occupying forces and Ukrainian territory was extensively mined, said Zelensky. President Zelensky further reiterated his previous assessment about the counteroffensive moving more slowly as he would want. "Ukraine is not backtracking. It is progressively liberating its territories, which is very important. Still, I believe we are approaching a moment when relevant actions can gain pace. I do understand it is better to see that victory comes sooner. This is what we want too,” he said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Zelensky calls Crimea bridge 'legitimate military target', says it feeds ammunition for war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sacked the country's ambassador to the United Kingdom, Vadym Prystaiko, on Friday, after he denounced the president's response to a row over British military aid.

Prystaiko had condemned Zelensky's sarcastic remarks to suggestions that came from British Defence Minister Ben Wallace that Ukraine should exhibit more gratitude for the arms and ammunition supplied by its allies.&nbsp;

Zelensky, in a decree that was published on the presidential website, signed the dismissal of Prystaiko. It did not cite the reason for banishment.

<h2>British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace warns Ukraine its allies are 'not Amazon'</h2>

The row began this month at the NATO summit in Vilnius when Wallace said in a press briefing that Britain was 'not an Amazon delivery service' for Ukraine and that Kyiv could express more "gratitude".

Wallace warned that Ukraine had to persuade US lawmakers and "doubting politicians in other countries that it's worth it", and that "whether we like it or not, people want to see gratitude".

Wallace, who was speaking on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Lithuania, while answering a question from a reporter about Zelensky's complaints that Kyiv had not been given a timeline for joining the alliance, recalled the time when he was handed over a shopping list of weapons during his visit to Ukraine.

"You know, we're not Amazon," he said, referring to the giant American tech and retail company. "I told them that last year when I drove 11 hours to be given a list."

The United Kingdom has been one of Kyiv's most persistent supporters since Russia's attack last year. It is the major donor of weapons and trains the Ukrainian troops. PM Rishi Sunak had also released a statement earlier saying that Britain and its allies will increase their support for Ukraine.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorist-threatens-to-target-indias-foreign-minister-jaishankar-home-minister-amit-shah-618078">Terrorist threatens to target India's foreign minister Jaishankar, home minister Amit Shah</a>

<h2>Zelensky says did not understand Wallace's comments</h2>

While responding to Wallace's comments at a press conference, Zelensky said, "We were always grateful to the UK, prime ministers and the minister of defence because the people are always supporting us," he said.

"I didn't know what he meant and how else we should be grateful. Maybe the minister wants something special but we have wonderful relations."

When asked about Wallace's comments, Sunak said that Zelensky had been grateful for the support given so far and that more support would be forthcoming as required.

"President Zelensky has expressed his gratitude for what we have done on a number of occasions," Sunak told a press conference at the summit in Vilnius.

"I completely understand Volodymyr's desire to do everything he can to protect his people and to stop this war, and we will continue to give him the support that he needs."

<h2>Ukrainian diplomat says Zelensky responded with 'a little bit of sarcasm'&nbsp;to Wallace's comments</h2>

The Ukrainian diplomat agreed with a suggestion from a Sky News interviewer that Zelensky had responded with "a little bit of sarcasm" to Wallace.

"I don't believe that this sarcasm is healthy. We don't have to show the Russians that we have something between us, they have to know that we are working together," Prystaiko added, stressing the need to smooth over relations with the UK.

"If anything happens, Ben can call me and tell me everything he wants," the diplomat said.

Prystaiko served as ambassador to the UK since July 2020. He was previously Ukraine's foreign minister from 2019 to 2020.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sacked the country's ambassador to the United Kingdom, Vadym Prystaiko, on Friday, after he denounced the president's response to a row over British military aid.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sacked the country's ambassador to the United Kingdom, Vadym Prystaiko, on Friday, after he denounced the president's response to a row over British military aid. Prystaiko had condemned Zelensky's sarcastic remarks to suggestions that came from British Defence Minister Ben Wallace that Ukraine should exhibit more gratitude for the arms and ammunition supplied by its allies. Zelensky, in a decree that was published on the presidential website, signed the dismissal of Prystaiko. It did not cite the reason for banishment. British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace warns Ukraine its allies are 'not Amazon' The row began this month at the NATO summit in Vilnius when Wallace said in a press briefing that Britain was 'not an Amazon delivery service' for Ukraine and that Kyiv could express more "gratitude". Wallace warned that Ukraine had to persuade US lawmakers and "doubting politicians in other countries that it's worth it", and that "whether we like it or not, people want to see gratitude". Wallace, who was speaking on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Lithuania, while answering a question from a reporter about Zelensky's complaints that Kyiv had not been given a timeline for joining the alliance, recalled the time when he was handed over a shopping list of weapons during his visit to Ukraine. "You know, we're not Amazon," he said, referring to the giant American tech and retail company. "I told them that last year when I drove 11 hours to be given a list." The United Kingdom has been one of Kyiv's most persistent supporters since Russia's attack last year. It is the major donor of weapons and trains the Ukrainian troops. PM Rishi Sunak had also released a statement earlier saying that Britain and its allies will increase their support for Ukraine. Also read: Terrorist threatens to target India's foreign minister Jaishankar, home minister Amit Shah Zelensky says did not understand Wallace's comments While responding to Wallace's comments at a press conference, Zelensky said, "We were always grateful to the UK, prime ministers and the minister of defence because the people are always supporting us," he said. "I didn't know what he meant and how else we should be grateful. Maybe the minister wants something special but we have wonderful relations." When asked about Wallace's comments, Sunak said that Zelensky had been grateful for the support given so far and that more support would be forthcoming as required. "President Zelensky has expressed his gratitude for what we have done on a number of occasions," Sunak told a press conference at the summit in Vilnius. "I completely understand Volodymyr's desire to do everything he can to protect his people and to stop this war, and we will continue to give him the support that he needs." Ukrainian diplomat says Zelensky responded with 'a little bit of sarcasm' to Wallace's comments The Ukrainian diplomat agreed with a suggestion from a Sky News interviewer that Zelensky had responded with "a little bit of sarcasm" to Wallace. "I don't believe that this sarcasm is healthy. We don't have to show the Russians that we have something between us, they have to know that we are working together," Prystaiko added, stressing the need to smooth over relations with the UK. "If anything happens, Ben can call me and tell me everything he wants," the diplomat said. Prystaiko served as ambassador to the UK since July 2020. He was previously Ukraine's foreign minister from 2019 to 2020. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismisses country's ambassador to the United Kingdom

Talks to bring home thousands of Ukraine children that have been "abducted" by Russia have reportedly been underway since April.

On Wednesday, talking to Reuters, a source with knowledge of the discussions, confirmed a previous Finance Times report that Saudi Arabia and Turkey are trying to mediate the repatriation efforts and bring home Ukrainian children that have been taken to Russia, and placed in children's homes or even adopted by Russian families.

<h2>Talks going on for months</h2>

"The Turks and the Saudis especially have been showing an interest in bringing Ukrainian children back," the source told Reuters on the condition of anonymity.

As per the Reuters source, talks had been going on since April, but they could've started earlier.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/31-children-that-russia-stole-return-home-to-ukraine-580540">31 children that Russia 'stole' return home to Ukraine</a>

The individual reportedly failed to disclose the status of the talks. They, however, expressed doubt that a deal would be reached and said it would depend on Russian President Vladimir Putin accepting he's a "war criminal".

"For him to give (the children) back would mean that he agrees that he's a war criminal."

The source did not indicate to Reuters how the talks were going but expressed doubt that a deal would be reached because it would depend on Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"For him to give (the children) back would mean that he agrees that he's a war criminal," the source said.

On Tuesday, quoting four people, a Financial Times report said that the discussions have been underway for several months.

<h2>Abduction of Ukrainian children</h2>

Ukraine has accused Russia of illegally carrying out the forced deportation of thousands of Ukrainian&nbsp;children. Russia has, however, denied the "abduction" allegation and says they were transported for their own safety, and to save the children from the horrors of the war.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-consider-ukraine-bound-ships-to-be-carrying-military-cargo-617577">Russia to consider Ukraine-bound ships to be carrying 'military cargo'</a>

In March, the International Criminal Court announced an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin over the war crime of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children.&nbsp; At the time, another warrant on similar charges was also issued for Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia's presidential commissioner for children's rights.

As per Kyiv's estimates, nearly 19,500 children have been taken to Russia or Russian-occupied Crimea since the beginning of the invasion. Of these only 385 children have been repatriated, show Ukrainian official figures.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Talks to bring home thousands of Ukraine children that have been "abducted" by Russia have reportedly been underway since April. On Wednesday, talking to Reuters, a source with knowledge of the discussions, confirmed a previous Finance Times report that Saudi Arabia and Turkey are trying to mediate the repatriation efforts and bring home Ukrainian children that have been taken to Russia, and placed in children's homes or even adopted by Russian families.

Talks to bring home thousands of Ukraine children that have been "abducted" by Russia have reportedly been underway since April. On Wednesday, talking to Reuters, a source with knowledge of the discussions, confirmed a previous Finance Times report that Saudi Arabia and Turkey are trying to mediate the repatriation efforts and bring home Ukrainian children that have been taken to Russia, and placed in children's homes or even adopted by Russian families. Talks going on for months "The Turks and the Saudis especially have been showing an interest in bringing Ukrainian children back," the source told Reuters on the condition of anonymity. As per the Reuters source, talks had been going on since April, but they could've started earlier. Also read | 31 children that Russia 'stole' return home to Ukraine The individual reportedly failed to disclose the status of the talks. They, however, expressed doubt that a deal would be reached and said it would depend on Russian President Vladimir Putin accepting he's a "war criminal". "For him to give (the children) back would mean that he agrees that he's a war criminal." The source did not indicate to Reuters how the talks were going but expressed doubt that a deal would be reached because it would depend on Russian President Vladimir Putin. "For him to give (the children) back would mean that he agrees that he's a war criminal," the source said. On Tuesday, quoting four people, a Financial Times report said that the discussions have been underway for several months. Abduction of Ukrainian children Ukraine has accused Russia of illegally carrying out the forced deportation of thousands of Ukrainian children. Russia has, however, denied the "abduction" allegation and says they were transported for their own safety, and to save the children from the horrors of the war. Also read | Russia to consider Ukraine-bound ships to be carrying 'military cargo' In March, the International Criminal Court announced an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin over the war crime of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children. At the time, another warrant on similar charges was also issued for Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia's presidential commissioner for children's rights. As per Kyiv's estimates, nearly 19,500 children have been taken to Russia or Russian-occupied Crimea since the beginning of the invasion. Of these only 385 children have been repatriated, show Ukrainian official figures. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Talks to bring back Ukrainian children 'abducted' by Russia on since April: Report

South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol made a sudden and unannounced visit to Ukraine on Sunday where he went to the town of Bucha, before a summit with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, his office stated. 
 
"The president first toured the Bucha city massacre site near the capital Kyiv and the city of Irpin, where missile attacks were concentrated on civilian residential areas," his office stated. 
 
"President Yoon will visit a memorial for the war dead to lay a wreath, and hold a summit meeting with President Zelensky," it said in a statement.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/south-korea-turns-back-the-clock-on-citizens-ages-people-become-year-or-two-younger-heres-how-609451">South Korea 'turns back the clock' on citizens' ages, people become year or two younger. Here's how</a>

The ninth-largest arms exporter in the world, South Korea, has provided humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and also sold howitzers and tanks to Poland, which has been Kyiv's key ally as the country battles invading Russian forces.

<h2>Seoul's policy of supplying weapons</h2>

However, South Korea has a long-standing policy of not giving weapons to zones which are involved in conflict, because of which the repeated requests from the United States, European allies and also Ukraine for arms have remained stuck. 
 
The meeting of Yoon with Zelensky, who has previously appealed to Seoul to consider providing weapons directly to Kyiv, is likely to focus on the supply of aid by South Korea to the country. 
 
Seoul, which has been technically at war with nuclear-armed North Korea, has been producing large volumes of NATO-compatible weaponry, which includes highly sought-after shell ammunition, tanks and howitzers. 
 
Seoul has stated that it can reconsider its policy of not providing lethal aid, as Yoon had earlier this year stated that Russia's large-scale attack on civilians could tip the balance.

WATCH |&nbsp;North Korea to boost its nuclear arsenal?

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However, in May, a US media report was dismissed by South Korea which stated that its artillery rounds were heading to Ukraine, stating that its stand on not supplying lethal aid to Kyiv remains unchanged. 
 
But the experts have stated that South Korea has been in a tricky position because of the economic ties it shares with Russia, which is its 15th largest trading partner as of 2022 and also because of the influence that Moscow has over North Korea.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol made a sudden and unannounced visit to Ukraine on Sunday where he went to the town of Bucha, before a summit with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, his office stated.

South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol made a sudden and unannounced visit to Ukraine on Sunday where he went to the town of Bucha, before a summit with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, his office stated. "The president first toured the Bucha city massacre site near the capital Kyiv and the city of Irpin, where missile attacks were concentrated on civilian residential areas," his office stated. "President Yoon will visit a memorial for the war dead to lay a wreath, and hold a summit meeting with President Zelensky," it said in a statement. ALSO READ | South Korea 'turns back the clock' on citizens' ages, people become year or two younger. Here's how The ninth-largest arms exporter in the world, South Korea, has provided humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and also sold howitzers and tanks to Poland, which has been Kyiv's key ally as the country battles invading Russian forces. Seoul's policy of supplying weapons However, South Korea has a long-standing policy of not giving weapons to zones which are involved in conflict, because of which the repeated requests from the United States, European allies and also Ukraine for arms have remained stuck. The meeting of Yoon with Zelensky, who has previously appealed to Seoul to consider providing weapons directly to Kyiv, is likely to focus on the supply of aid by South Korea to the country. Seoul, which has been technically at war with nuclear-armed North Korea, has been producing large volumes of NATO-compatible weaponry, which includes highly sought-after shell ammunition, tanks and howitzers. Seoul has stated that it can reconsider its policy of not providing lethal aid, as Yoon had earlier this year stated that Russia's large-scale attack on civilians could tip the balance. WATCH | North Korea to boost its nuclear arsenal? However, in May, a US media report was dismissed by South Korea which stated that its artillery rounds were heading to Ukraine, stating that its stand on not supplying lethal aid to Kyiv remains unchanged. But the experts have stated that South Korea has been in a tricky position because of the economic ties it shares with Russia, which is its 15th largest trading partner as of 2022 and also because of the influence that Moscow has over North Korea. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

South Korea's President Yeol makes sudden Ukraine visit, meets Zelensky

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that Russia has been putting all its resources into a campaign which is aimed at halting Kyiv's troops from taking forth the counter-offensive. The statement came at a time when the top general reported about Kyiv's new progress on the southern front. 
 
However, Ukrainian military analysts have stated that things have been difficult for Ukrainian forces as they make efforts to advance southward. 
 
A counter-offensive was launched by Ukraine to re-capture swathes of land in southern and eastern Ukraine which were earlier captured by Russian forces after they invaded Kyiv in February 2022.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-it-advanced-nearly-2-km-on-southern-front-this-week-downed-16-drone-attacks-overnight-615689">Ukraine says it advanced nearly 2 km on southern front this week; downed 16 drones overnight</a>

The counter-offensive has been aiming at capturing villages in the southeast as part of the drive towards areas near the eastern city of Bakhmut and the Sea of Azov, which were captured in May by Russian forces after months of battles. 
 
Meanwhile, Russia has claimed that its forces have repelled attacks by Ukrainian forces in the eastern Donetsk region, which includes regions around Bakhmut. 
 
"We must all understand very clearly, as clearly as possible, that Russian forces in our southern and eastern lands are doing everything they can in order to stop our soldiers," said Zelensky in his nightly video address, after he held a meeting with top commanders on Friday. "And every thousand metres we advance, every success of every combat brigade deserves our gratitude,” he added.

<h2>Russian forces claim to repel 16 Ukrainian attacks</h2>

After the meeting, Commander of Ukrainian forces in the south General Oleksander Tarnavskyi said that his troops were "systematically moving the enemy out of their positions". Taking to Telegram, he wrote that in the past 24 hours, enemy losses were equivalent to at least 200.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia's Wagner mercenary group trains soldiers in Belarus

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"In the south, the situation is very difficult in advancing towards Berdiansk," said military analyst Serhiy Hrabskyi, while referring to a port on the Sea of Azov in his talks with Ukrainian NV radio. Ukrainian forces have been aiming to cut off a land bridge which was established by Russian forces with the annexed Crimean peninsula. 
 
"They are moving on the village of Robotyne. The enemy is offering resistance to stop our advance southward,” he added. In its daily report, the defence ministry of Russia stated that 16 Ukrainian attacks were repelled by the forces in the eastern front which included near the long-contested town of Maryinka and in Klishchiivka, a strategic village on southern fringe of Bakhmut.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that Russia has been putting all its resources into a campaign which is aimed at halting Kyiv's troops from taking forth the counter-offensive.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that Russia has been putting all its resources into a campaign which is aimed at halting Kyiv's troops from taking forth the counter-offensive. The statement came at a time when the top general reported about Kyiv's new progress on the southern front. However, Ukrainian military analysts have stated that things have been difficult for Ukrainian forces as they make efforts to advance southward. A counter-offensive was launched by Ukraine to re-capture swathes of land in southern and eastern Ukraine which were earlier captured by Russian forces after they invaded Kyiv in February 2022. ALSO READ | Ukraine says it advanced nearly 2 km on southern front this week; downed 16 drones overnight The counter-offensive has been aiming at capturing villages in the southeast as part of the drive towards areas near the eastern city of Bakhmut and the Sea of Azov, which were captured in May by Russian forces after months of battles. Meanwhile, Russia has claimed that its forces have repelled attacks by Ukrainian forces in the eastern Donetsk region, which includes regions around Bakhmut. "We must all understand very clearly, as clearly as possible, that Russian forces in our southern and eastern lands are doing everything they can in order to stop our soldiers," said Zelensky in his nightly video address, after he held a meeting with top commanders on Friday. "And every thousand metres we advance, every success of every combat brigade deserves our gratitude,” he added. Russian forces claim to repel 16 Ukrainian attacks After the meeting, Commander of Ukrainian forces in the south General Oleksander Tarnavskyi said that his troops were "systematically moving the enemy out of their positions". Taking to Telegram, he wrote that in the past 24 hours, enemy losses were equivalent to at least 200. WATCH | Russia's Wagner mercenary group trains soldiers in Belarus "In the south, the situation is very difficult in advancing towards Berdiansk," said military analyst Serhiy Hrabskyi, while referring to a port on the Sea of Azov in his talks with Ukrainian NV radio. Ukrainian forces have been aiming to cut off a land bridge which was established by Russian forces with the annexed Crimean peninsula. "They are moving on the village of Robotyne. The enemy is offering resistance to stop our advance southward,” he added. In its daily report, the defence ministry of Russia stated that 16 Ukrainian attacks were repelled by the forces in the eastern front which included near the long-contested town of Maryinka and in Klishchiivka, a strategic village on southern fringe of Bakhmut. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia throwing all its resources to halt Ukraine's troops on counteroffensive, says Zelensky

British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace has been facing flack after his "We are not Amazon" comment for Ukraine went viral. Members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) gathered in Lithuania's capital to discuss future plans for Ukraine.&nbsp;

While speaking on the sidelines of the summit, Wallace&nbsp;recalled the time he warned the war-torn nation that its international allies were "not Amazon" and Kyiv needed to show gratitude for the supply of weapons&nbsp;in order to persuade Western politicians to give more.&nbsp;

As he spoke to reporters, the UK minister mentioned the time he had travelled to Ukraine last year, where he received a shopping list of weapons.&nbsp;

Referring to the tech and retail company, Wallace &nbsp;said, "You know, we're not Amazon." He added, "I told them that last year when I drove 11 hours to be given a list."&nbsp;

The two-day NATO summit did not confirm (or deny) an invitation for Kyiv to join the military alliance on a clear timeframe, and now, Wallace's comments have led to embarrassment among the allies - some even referred to it as discord among Ukraine's so-called friends.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-killed-four-injured-after-russia-carries-out-massive-overnight-strike-on-kyiv-614905">One killed, four injured after Russia carries out 'massive' overnight strike on Kyiv</a>&nbsp;

Wallace told British media: "There is a slight word of caution which is, whether we like it or not, people want to see gratitude. Sometimes you're persuading countries to give up their own stocks. And yes, the war is a noble war and yes, we see it as you doing a war not just for yourselves but also our freedoms."

"But sometimes you've got to persuade lawmakers on the hill in America," Wallace said referring to the US Congress.&nbsp;

"You have got to persuade doubting politicians in other countries that it is worth it, it's worthwhile and they are getting something for it," he added.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Biden greets NATO's newest member, Finland&nbsp;

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<h2>Sunak responds to Wallace's comments&nbsp;</h2>

On being asked about Wallace's remarks, Sunak said Zelensky "has expressed his gratitude for what we have done on a number of occasions".&nbsp;

"Not least in his incredibly moving address that he made to parliament earlier this year and he has done so again to me, as he has done countless times when I have met him," he told reporters in Vilnius.&nbsp;

Sunak added: "So I know that he and his people are incredibly grateful for the support we have shown, the welcome that we have provided to many Ukrainian families, but also the leadership we have shown throughout this conflict."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-biden-commits-another-gaffe-calls-zelensky-vladimir-at-nato-summit-614933">Biden commits another gaffe, calls Zelensky 'Vladimir' at NATO Summit</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Zelensky says, 'We were always grateful'&nbsp;</h2>

Zelensky was also asked about Wallace's comments at his summit press conference and responded in an exasperated tone.

"I believe that we were always grateful to the United Kingdom. We are always grateful to the prime minister -- or to prime ministers –- and to the minister of defence," he told reporters. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace has been facing flack after his "We are not Amazon" comment for Ukraine went viral. Members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) gathered in Lithuania's capital to discuss future plans for Ukraine.

British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace has been facing flack after his "We are not Amazon" comment for Ukraine went viral. Members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) gathered in Lithuania's capital to discuss future plans for Ukraine. While speaking on the sidelines of the summit, Wallace recalled the time he warned the war-torn nation that its international allies were "not Amazon" and Kyiv needed to show gratitude for the supply of weapons in order to persuade Western politicians to give more. As he spoke to reporters, the UK minister mentioned the time he had travelled to Ukraine last year, where he received a shopping list of weapons. Referring to the tech and retail company, Wallace said, "You know, we're not Amazon." He added, "I told them that last year when I drove 11 hours to be given a list." The two-day NATO summit did not confirm (or deny) an invitation for Kyiv to join the military alliance on a clear timeframe, and now, Wallace's comments have led to embarrassment among the allies - some even referred to it as discord among Ukraine's so-called friends. Also read: One killed, four injured after Russia carries out 'massive' overnight strike on Kyiv Wallace told British media: "There is a slight word of caution which is, whether we like it or not, people want to see gratitude. Sometimes you're persuading countries to give up their own stocks. And yes, the war is a noble war and yes, we see it as you doing a war not just for yourselves but also our freedoms." "But sometimes you've got to persuade lawmakers on the hill in America," Wallace said referring to the US Congress. "You have got to persuade doubting politicians in other countries that it is worth it, it's worthwhile and they are getting something for it," he added. Watch: Biden greets NATO's newest member, Finland × Sunak responds to Wallace's comments On being asked about Wallace's remarks, Sunak said Zelensky "has expressed his gratitude for what we have done on a number of occasions". "Not least in his incredibly moving address that he made to parliament earlier this year and he has done so again to me, as he has done countless times when I have met him," he told reporters in Vilnius. Sunak added: "So I know that he and his people are incredibly grateful for the support we have shown, the welcome that we have provided to many Ukrainian families, but also the leadership we have shown throughout this conflict." Also read: Biden commits another gaffe, calls Zelensky 'Vladimir' at NATO Summit Zelensky says, 'We were always grateful' Zelensky was also asked about Wallace's comments at his summit press conference and responded in an exasperated tone. "I believe that we were always grateful to the United Kingdom. We are always grateful to the prime minister -- or to prime ministers –- and to the minister of defence," he told reporters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Weapons supply to Ukraine: Allies embarrassed over Ben Wallace's we are 'not Amazon' remarks?

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