One year into the war, the reconstruction and recovery needs of Ukraine, as per the latest World Bank estimates, have risen to $411 billion. Ukraine's reconstruction and recovery, as per Anna Bjerde, World Bank's vice president for Europe and Central Asia, will "take several years." As per the report released on Wednesday, these estimates "should be considered as minimums as needs will continue to rise as long as the war continues." Ukraine war which began on February 24, 2022 has caused widespread damage to the global economy. The Russian invasion has not only displaced millions of people, but has also triggered a global food and energy price surge.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine war: Zelensky visits front line near Bakhmut as Russia targets cities

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As per the latest assessment, it is expected that in 2023, Kyiv will require around $14 billion for critical and priority reconstruction and recovery investments.&nbsp;

It estimates that in addition to what the Ukrainian government has allocated in its 2023 budget, meeting these needs will require $11 billion in additional&nbsp;funding. AFP reports that the highest expected needs are in transport, while housing and energy are a close second.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-slams-uk-for-sending-depleted-uranium-shells-to-ukraine-calls-it-serious-escalation-574777">Russia slams UK for sending depleted uranium shells to Ukraine, calls it ‘serious escalation’</a>

The latest assessment has been jointly reached by the Ukrainian government, the World Bank, the European Commission and the United Nations. It is around $62 billion&nbsp;more than an earlier estimate of $349 billion reported in September.

Undoing 15 years of development and progress, the war has forced 7.1 million people into poverty, states the assessment.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-uk-defends-sending-uranium-ammo-to-kyiv-after-putins-warning-says-report-574775">Ukraine war: UK defends sending uranium ammo to Kyiv after Putin's warning, says report</a>

As per AFP, the $411 billion needed is approximately 2.6 times Ukraine's estimated gross domestic product for 2022.

"Energy infrastructure, housing, critical infrastructure, economy and humanitarian demining are our five priorities for this year," said Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmygal in a statement.&nbsp;He further warned that "the amount of damage and recovery needs currently does not include data on the loss of infrastructure, housing and businesses in the occupied territories."

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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One year into the war, the reconstruction and recovery needs of Ukraine, as per the latest World Bank estimates, have risen to $411 billion. Ukraine's reconstruction and recovery, as per Anna Bjerde, World Bank's vice president for Europe and Central Asia, will "take several years.

One year into the war, the reconstruction and recovery needs of Ukraine, as per the latest World Bank estimates, have risen to $411 billion. Ukraine's reconstruction and recovery, as per Anna Bjerde, World Bank's vice president for Europe and Central Asia, will "take several years." As per the report released on Wednesday, these estimates "should be considered as minimums as needs will continue to rise as long as the war continues." Ukraine war which began on February 24, 2022 has caused widespread damage to the global economy. The Russian invasion has not only displaced millions of people, but has also triggered a global food and energy price surge. Watch | Ukraine war: Zelensky visits front line near Bakhmut as Russia targets cities As per the latest assessment, it is expected that in 2023, Kyiv will require around $14 billion for critical and priority reconstruction and recovery investments. It estimates that in addition to what the Ukrainian government has allocated in its 2023 budget, meeting these needs will require $11 billion in additional funding. AFP reports that the highest expected needs are in transport, while housing and energy are a close second. Also read | Russia slams UK for sending depleted uranium shells to Ukraine, calls it ‘serious escalation’ The latest assessment has been jointly reached by the Ukrainian government, the World Bank, the European Commission and the United Nations. It is around $62 billion more than an earlier estimate of $349 billion reported in September. Undoing 15 years of development and progress, the war has forced 7.1 million people into poverty, states the assessment. Also read | Ukraine war: UK defends sending uranium ammo to Kyiv after Putin's warning, says report As per AFP, the $411 billion needed is approximately 2.6 times Ukraine's estimated gross domestic product for 2022. "Energy infrastructure, housing, critical infrastructure, economy and humanitarian demining are our five priorities for this year," said Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmygal in a statement. He further warned that "the amount of damage and recovery needs currently does not include data on the loss of infrastructure, housing and businesses in the occupied territories." (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 reconstruction and recovery will take several years, cost $411 billion: World Bank

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday said that China has not 'crossed the line' and provided Russia with substantial aid despite it ramping up diplomatic aid to Moscow. Blinken, who as per AFP, has for weeks warned that Beijing is considering Russia's request for weapons for the Ukraine war said that "as we speak today, we have not seen them cross that line." He said this in response to a question on whether China was providing "lethal aid" to Russia. Talking to lawmakers at a Senate committee, the top diplomat as per Reuters said that China was "very carefully" watching how Washington and the world respond to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Blinken said that if Russia was allowed to attack Ukraine with impunity, it would "open a Pandora's box" for would-be aggressors and lead to a "world of conflict."

Watch |&nbsp;Key Takeaways from Xi- Jinping's Russia visit

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"The stakes in Ukraine go well beyond Ukraine. ... I think it has a profound impact in Asia, for example," he remarked.

Blinken's statement comes on the heels of a high-level meeting between Russia and China. Recently, 'dear friends' Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin met in Moscow to discuss the bilateral relations between the two nations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-reconstruction-and-recovery-will-take-several-years-and-411-billion-world-bank-574812">Ukraine’s reconstruction and recovery will take several years, cost $411 billion: World Bank</a>

"I think their diplomatic support, their political support, and to some extent material support for Russia certainly goes against our interest in bringing this war to an end," said Blinken when speaking about China.

Referring to the arrest warrant the International Criminal Court (ICC) has recently issued for the Russian President, Blinken said Washington would urge other nations to extradite Putin if he visits.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-slams-uk-for-sending-depleted-uranium-shells-to-ukraine-calls-it-serious-escalation-574777">Russia slams UK for sending depleted uranium shells to Ukraine, calls it ‘serious escalation’</a>

"I think that anyone who is a party to the court and has obligations should fulfil their obligations," he said.&nbsp;

However, he added that given that the US is "not actually a party to the ICC", he wants to avoid engaging in the hypothetical and that regards to Washington helping ICC extradite Putin, he would "have to look at the laws." "I don't think he (Putin) has any plans to travel here soon," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday said that China has not 'crossed the line' and provided Russia with substantial aid despite it ramping up diplomatic aid to Moscow.

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday said that China has not 'crossed the line' and provided Russia with substantial aid despite it ramping up diplomatic aid to Moscow. Blinken, who as per AFP, has for weeks warned that Beijing is considering Russia's request for weapons for the Ukraine war said that "as we speak today, we have not seen them cross that line." He said this in response to a question on whether China was providing "lethal aid" to Russia. Talking to lawmakers at a Senate committee, the top diplomat as per Reuters said that China was "very carefully" watching how Washington and the world respond to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Blinken said that if Russia was allowed to attack Ukraine with impunity, it would "open a Pandora's box" for would-be aggressors and lead to a "world of conflict." Watch | Key Takeaways from Xi- Jinping's Russia visit "The stakes in Ukraine go well beyond Ukraine. ... I think it has a profound impact in Asia, for example," he remarked. Blinken's statement comes on the heels of a high-level meeting between Russia and China. Recently, 'dear friends' Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin met in Moscow to discuss the bilateral relations between the two nations. Also read | Ukraine’s reconstruction and recovery will take several years, cost $411 billion: World Bank "I think their diplomatic support, their political support, and to some extent material support for Russia certainly goes against our interest in bringing this war to an end," said Blinken when speaking about China. Referring to the arrest warrant the International Criminal Court (ICC) has recently issued for the Russian President, Blinken said Washington would urge other nations to extradite Putin if he visits. Also read | Russia slams UK for sending depleted uranium shells to Ukraine, calls it ‘serious escalation’ "I think that anyone who is a party to the court and has obligations should fulfil their obligations," he said. However, he added that given that the US is "not actually a party to the ICC", he wants to avoid engaging in the hypothetical and that regards to Washington helping ICC extradite Putin, he would "have to look at the laws." "I don't think he (Putin) has any plans to travel here soon," 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.

China hasn't 'crossed line' to provide Russia 'lethal aid,' says top US diplomat Blinken

Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Tuesday reached Bucha, the region where Russian forces faced accusation of massacring Ukrainian civilians during their Kyiv-region suburb's weeks-long occupation last year.

Kishida expressed strong "indignation" during his visit to Bucha. "As I step foot in Bucha today, and witness all the brutality that took place here, I have a strong sentiment of indignation," he stated in translated remarks.

Later in the day,&nbsp;Kishida laid a wreath&nbsp;at the memorial for fallen Ukrainian soldiers in&nbsp;Kyiv city centre, accompanied by an honour guard.

Kishida arrived in Kyiv on Tuesday, the Japanese media reported after the foreign ministry announced his surprise visit to Ukraine.

Earlier today, public broadcaster NHK stated Kishida "could be seen getting off a train at a station in the centre of Kyiv", where he is likely to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

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キーウ中心部にある駅では、日本時間の21日夜、岸田総理大臣が列車から駅のホームに降りる姿が確認できました。 
 
岸田総理大臣はウクライナ政府の関係者とみられる人や現地に駐在する松田大使などの出迎えを受け、笑顔で会話する様子もみられました。<a href="https://t.co/0ImIFQ04nZ">https://t.co/0ImIFQ04nZ</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/nhk_video?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#nhk_video</a> <a href="https://t.co/NPhZWOAvOm">pic.twitter.com/NPhZWOAvOm</a>
— NHKニュース (@nhk_news) <a href="https://twitter.com/nhk_news/status/1638126506386890752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Representing Japan, which is among the democracies present in the Group of Seven, Kishida will voice his solidarity with Ukraine following Russia's invasion more than a year ago, said the foreign ministry in a statement.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-may-cease-to-exist-warns-pm-fumio-kishida-aide-as-birthrate-plummets-to-record-levels-569234">Japan may cease to exist, warns PM Fumio Kishida aide as birthrate plummets to record levels</a>

The Japanese PM will convey "his respect for the courage and perseverance of the Ukrainian people standing up to defend their homeland," it stated.

Meanwhile, the foreign ministry of Ukraine on Tuesday welcomed Kishida's arrival in Kyiv, hailing his "historic" visit as a key show of solidarity.

"This historic visit is a sign of solidarity and strong cooperation between (Ukraine and Japan). We are grateful to Japan for its strong support and contribution to our future victory," said First Deputy Foreign Minister Emine Dzheppar on Twitter.

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Ми раді вітати в <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D0%A3%D0%BA%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%97%D0%BD%D1%96?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Україні</a> Прем'єр-міністра <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D0%AF%D0%BF%D0%BE%D0%BD%D1%96%D1%97?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Японії</a> Кішіду Фуміо <a href="https://twitter.com/kishida230?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kishida230</a>. 
Цей історичний візит є проявом солідарності та плідної співпраці між 🇺🇦 &amp; 🇯🇵. 
Ми вдячні Японії за потужну підтримку та внесок у нашу майбутню перемогу. 
ようこそ <a href="https://t.co/xaXFrySYcw">pic.twitter.com/xaXFrySYcw</a>
— Emine Dzheppar (@EmineDzheppar) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmineDzheppar/status/1638138172226904067?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Japan is set to host the G7 summit in Hiroshima in May, and previously Kishida said that the summit must show its strong will to uphold rule of law and international order in response to the Russia-Ukraine war.

WATCH | Kishida and Modi hail role of India-Japan ties in securing Indo-Pacific

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NHK shared the footage of the Japanese PM holding talks with the officials as he stood next to a train. He reached Kyiv after boarding a train from Przemysl, a border town in Poland.&nbsp;

Kishida is also scheduled to hold talks with his Polish counterpart before flying back to Japan on Thursday, said the ministry.&nbsp;

Before departing for Poland en route to Ukraine, Kishida made an official visit to India where he held talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Tuesday reached Bucha, the region where Russian forces faced accusation of massacring Ukrainian civilians during their Kyiv-region suburb's weeks-long occupation last year.

Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Tuesday reached Bucha, the region where Russian forces faced accusation of massacring Ukrainian civilians during their Kyiv-region suburb's weeks-long occupation last year. Kishida expressed strong "indignation" during his visit to Bucha. "As I step foot in Bucha today, and witness all the brutality that took place here, I have a strong sentiment of indignation," he stated in translated remarks. Later in the day, Kishida laid a wreath at the memorial for fallen Ukrainian soldiers in Kyiv city centre, accompanied by an honour guard. Kishida arrived in Kyiv on Tuesday, the Japanese media reported after the foreign ministry announced his surprise visit to Ukraine. Earlier today, public broadcaster NHK stated Kishida "could be seen getting off a train at a station in the centre of Kyiv", where he is likely to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. キーウ中心部にある駅では、日本時間の21日夜、岸田総理大臣が列車から駅のホームに降りる姿が確認できました。 岸田総理大臣はウクライナ政府の関係者とみられる人や現地に駐在する松田大使などの出迎えを受け、笑顔で会話する様子もみられました。https://t.co/0ImIFQ04nZ#nhk_video pic.twitter.com/NPhZWOAvOm — NHKニュース (@nhk_news) March 21, 2023 × Representing Japan, which is among the democracies present in the Group of Seven, Kishida will voice his solidarity with Ukraine following Russia's invasion more than a year ago, said the foreign ministry in a statement. ALSO READ | Japan may cease to exist, warns PM Fumio Kishida aide as birthrate plummets to record levels The Japanese PM will convey "his respect for the courage and perseverance of the Ukrainian people standing up to defend their homeland," it stated. Meanwhile, the foreign ministry of Ukraine on Tuesday welcomed Kishida's arrival in Kyiv, hailing his "historic" visit as a key show of solidarity. "This historic visit is a sign of solidarity and strong cooperation between (Ukraine and Japan). We are grateful to Japan for its strong support and contribution to our future victory," said First Deputy Foreign Minister Emine Dzheppar on Twitter. Ми раді вітати в #Україні Прем'єр-міністра #Японії Кішіду Фуміо @kishida230. Цей історичний візит є проявом солідарності та плідної співпраці між 🇺🇦 & 🇯🇵. Ми вдячні Японії за потужну підтримку та внесок у нашу майбутню перемогу. ようこそ pic.twitter.com/xaXFrySYcw — Emine Dzheppar (@EmineDzheppar) March 21, 2023 × Japan is set to host the G7 summit in Hiroshima in May, and previously Kishida said that the summit must show its strong will to uphold rule of law and international order in response to the Russia-Ukraine war. WATCH | Kishida and Modi hail role of India-Japan ties in securing Indo-Pacific NHK shared the footage of the Japanese PM holding talks with the officials as he stood next to a train. He reached Kyiv after boarding a train from Przemysl, a border town in Poland. Kishida is also scheduled to hold talks with his Polish counterpart before flying back to Japan on Thursday, said the ministry. Before departing for Poland en route to Ukraine, Kishida made an official visit to India where he held talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi. (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-Ukraine war | Japan PM Kishida visits Bucha in Ukraine

Ukraine and Russia have reported inflicting heavy losses as the battle for Bakhmut rages on. Moscow has been trying to take the eastern Ukrainian city for months in a grinding war of attrition. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russian forces had suffered more than 1,100 deaths in the past few days, with many more seriously injured.

Ukraine war: Heavy losses reported as battle for Bakhmut rages

Surprising everyone in the two warring nations and elsewhere around, the chief of the Russian mercenary group Wagner revealed his political ambitions and declared his intentions to run for Ukraine's President in 2024. In a video going viral on social media, Yevgeny Prigozhin announced his "political ambitions" for next year and said that he has "decided to run for president in 2024."

In the video, Prigozhin, who is dressed in combat gear, can be seen addressing the camera from an unknown location. Gunfire can be heard in the background, as he says, "I'm making a political coming out. Looking at everything around me, I've got political ambitions. I decided to run for president in 2024. For President of Ukraine."

Watch |&nbsp;Wagner Chief: Our men running short of ammunition | Battle of Bakhmut

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He goes on to add if he defeated incumbent Volodymyr Zelensky and his predecessor, Petro Poroshenko, "everything will be fine."

"If I win the presidential elections of Ukraine, then everything will be fine, guys, the shells will not be needed."&nbsp;

Watch the video here:

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⚡️In 2024 I will run for the presidency of Ukraine — head of Wagner PMC Yevgeny Prigozhin <a href="https://t.co/C0Ni5FMKVx">pic.twitter.com/C0Ni5FMKVx</a>
— War Monitor (@WarMonitors) <a href="https://twitter.com/WarMonitors/status/1634530100640206848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ordinary-bureaucracy-or-a-betrayal-wagner-chief-says-without-fresh-ammunition-bakhmut-could-collapse-569053">'Ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal?': Wagner chief says without promised ammunition, Bakhmut could collapse</a>

As per reports, this could be a dig at Moscow's failure to supply the mercenary group with ammunition. The Wagner chief has in recent days repeatedly brought up the ammunition issue.

The Wagner chief has for some time been at odds with the Russian military chiefs, including Defence Minister Sergey Shoygu and head of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov. He has questioned their competence and has voiced his suspicions of the ministry's "jealousy" for the success of his mercenary troops.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russian-strike-in-kherson-kills-three-battle-for-bakhmut-rages-on-570951">Ukraine war: Russian strike in Kherson kills three; battle for Bakhmut rages on</a> 
 
Recently, Prigozhin accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of cutting him off completely and said that he has been unable to get through to anyone at the Kremlin. 
 
Prigozhin said on his Telegram channel, “To get me to stop asking for ammunition, all the hotlines to offices, to departments etc have been cut off from me. But the real humdinger is that they’ve also blocked agencies from making decisions [related to Wagner].”

Just last week, he had warned that unless his troops are fortified with ammunition, Moscow's position in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is in peril. Reportedly, Moscow has failed to keep its promise to deliver ammunition to Wagner. In February, Prigozhin as per Reuters even termed the withholding of munition supplies as "treason".

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Surprising everyone in the two warring nations and elsewhere around, the chief of the Russian mercenary group Wagner revealed his political ambitions and declared his intentions to run for Ukraine's President in 2024.

Surprising everyone in the two warring nations and elsewhere around, the chief of the Russian mercenary group Wagner revealed his political ambitions and declared his intentions to run for Ukraine's President in 2024. In a video going viral on social media, Yevgeny Prigozhin announced his "political ambitions" for next year and said that he has "decided to run for president in 2024." In the video, Prigozhin, who is dressed in combat gear, can be seen addressing the camera from an unknown location. Gunfire can be heard in the background, as he says, "I'm making a political coming out. Looking at everything around me, I've got political ambitions. I decided to run for president in 2024. For President of Ukraine." Watch | Wagner Chief: Our men running short of ammunition | Battle of Bakhmut He goes on to add if he defeated incumbent Volodymyr Zelensky and his predecessor, Petro Poroshenko, "everything will be fine." "If I win the presidential elections of Ukraine, then everything will be fine, guys, the shells will not be needed." Watch the video here: ⚡️In 2024 I will run for the presidency of Ukraine — head of Wagner PMC Yevgeny Prigozhin pic.twitter.com/C0Ni5FMKVx — War Monitor (@WarMonitors) March 11, 2023 × Also read | 'Ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal?': Wagner chief says without promised ammunition, Bakhmut could collapse As per reports, this could be a dig at Moscow's failure to supply the mercenary group with ammunition. The Wagner chief has in recent days repeatedly brought up the ammunition issue. The Wagner chief has for some time been at odds with the Russian military chiefs, including Defence Minister Sergey Shoygu and head of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov. He has questioned their competence and has voiced his suspicions of the ministry's "jealousy" for the success of his mercenary troops. Also read | Ukraine war: Russian strike in Kherson kills three; battle for Bakhmut rages on Recently, Prigozhin accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of cutting him off completely and said that he has been unable to get through to anyone at the Kremlin. Prigozhin said on his Telegram channel, “To get me to stop asking for ammunition, all the hotlines to offices, to departments etc have been cut off from me. But the real humdinger is that they’ve also blocked agencies from making decisions [related to Wagner].” Just last week, he had warned that unless his troops are fortified with ammunition, Moscow's position in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is in peril. Reportedly, Moscow has failed to keep its promise to deliver ammunition to Wagner. In February, Prigozhin as per Reuters even termed the withholding of munition supplies as "treason". (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 mercenary group Wagner’s chief reveals ‘political ambitions’, to run for Ukraine’s president in 2024

Bakhmut remains the main target of Russia's winter push into Ukraine. Both Russian reserve troops and mercenaries are attempting to seige the city. On Friday, Zelensky led the tributes for Dmytro kotsiu-bailo, a fallen Ukrainian commander. Kotsiu-balio was affectionately known as "Da Vinci" among the troops.

Tributes pour in for slain Ukrainian commander 'Da Vinci'

Despite his best attempts, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has not been able to score an appearance at the Oscars. He has, however, appeared (virtually) in various awards shows and film festivals. He has also been lobbying for military support for Ukraine, visiting the US in December 2022 to meet with President Biden and urge Congress to send more military aid. And after facing a rejection last year, he has again been snubbed by the Academy, reported Variety. Zelensky, who has won praise for his leadership during the Russian invasion of his country, has tried to promote the cause of his country and its people.&nbsp;

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<h2>What is the Russo-Ukrainian&nbsp;war?</h2>

In February last year, Russian forces invaded Ukraine in an ongoing conflict that dates back to 2014 when Russia annexed Crimea, a region in Ukraine. Since then thousands of soldiers and civilians have died, and many Ukrainians have been displaced from their homes. Last year, Zelensky's team had lobbied to gain him a slot in the Oscars last year, but failed.

Actor and Zelensky's friend Sean Penn had called for a boycott of the Oscars in 2022 if Zelensky was not allowed to speak. Zelensky was not in the end a part of the ceremony, so as a gesture of friendship Penn handed two of his own Oscars to him as a solidarity gesture, asking him to bring them back to Malibu (Penn's home) when Ukraine emerges victorious.

<h2>Why did the Academy refuse an appearance by Zelensky?</h2>

The Academy traditionally prefers to avoid anything political and focus on the contributions of the filmmaking community. Zelensky has also been denied airtime at the Toronto Film Festival, although the festival said it stands in solidarity with the Ukrainian people and is proud to showcase the work of Ukrainian filmmakers.

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Despite his best attempts, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has not been able to score an appearance at the Oscars. He has, however, appeared (virtually) in various awards shows and film festivals.

Despite his best attempts, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has not been able to score an appearance at the Oscars. He has, however, appeared (virtually) in various awards shows and film festivals. He has also been lobbying for military support for Ukraine, visiting the US in December 2022 to meet with President Biden and urge Congress to send more military aid. And after facing a rejection last year, he has again been snubbed by the Academy, reported Variety. Zelensky, who has won praise for his leadership during the Russian invasion of his country, has tried to promote the cause of his country and its people. What is the Russo-Ukrainian war? In February last year, Russian forces invaded Ukraine in an ongoing conflict that dates back to 2014 when Russia annexed Crimea, a region in Ukraine. Since then thousands of soldiers and civilians have died, and many Ukrainians have been displaced from their homes. Last year, Zelensky's team had lobbied to gain him a slot in the Oscars last year, but failed. Actor and Zelensky's friend Sean Penn had called for a boycott of the Oscars in 2022 if Zelensky was not allowed to speak. Zelensky was not in the end a part of the ceremony, so as a gesture of friendship Penn handed two of his own Oscars to him as a solidarity gesture, asking him to bring them back to Malibu (Penn's home) when Ukraine emerges victorious. Why did the Academy refuse an appearance by Zelensky? The Academy traditionally prefers to avoid anything political and focus on the contributions of the filmmaking community. Zelensky has also been denied airtime at the Toronto Film Festival, although the festival said it stands in solidarity with the Ukrainian people and is proud to showcase the work of Ukrainian filmmakers. 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 denied appearance at Oscars 2023, again! Here's why

NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg said that Bakhmut which is the city in eastern Ukraine has witnessed fierce fighting in recent months and it may fall into Russian hands in the coming days. His remarks comes after Russia's Wagner mercenary group which has spearheaded the attack on Bakhmut claimed that they have captured the eastern bank of the industrial town. Meanwhile Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has said that if Bakhmut falls to Russia then it would give an open access to Russia in accessing other Ukrainian towns.

NATO chief warns Bakhmut may fall soon

The chief of the Wagner mercenaries Yevgeny Prigozhin who has gone round prisons, recruiting convicts to fight on the battlefields of Ukraine has made the battle of Bakhmut a prestige issue. Recently, Yevgeny Prigozhin complained about not getting enough ammunition to fight. Prigozhin has also criticised the tactics employed by the regular Russian forces. So Prigozhin's reputation and his clout in Moscow hinges on the fate of Bakhmut.

Why battle of Bakhmut can define the endgame of Ukraine war?

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. 
 
As Russia claims it is inching closer to seizing control of the Bakhmut city in the east, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has ruled out withdrawing the troops from the besieged city, saying that such a move will allow Russian forces to capture key cities in eastern Ukraine.

“This is tactical for us,” Zelensky told CNN in an interview on Tuesday.

“We understand that after Bakhmut they could go further. They could go to Kramatorsk, they could go to Sloviansk, it would be an open road for the Russians after Bakhmut to other towns in Ukraine, in the Donetsk direction,” he was quoted as saying. “That’s why our guys are standing there.”

He stressed that Ukraine’s military will prolong its defence of the city despite Russia gaining an upper hand.

The eastern city has been witnessing&nbsp;months of intense fighting, as Russian mercenary Wagner Group and Russian troops have been trying&nbsp;to seize it. Ukraine has been valiantly maintaining its defence,&nbsp;and stalling advancement of the Russian troops.

<h2>Ukraine vows to keep defending Bakhmut amid constant attacks by Russian forces</h2>

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Ukraine's president and military commanders have agreed to strengthen their defence of Bakhmut.

The Ukrainian leader said that there is a reason why they are stationing their troops there. “We understand what Russia wants to achieve there. Russia needs at least some victory – a small victory – even by ruining everything in Bakhmut, just killing every civilian there.”

Zelensky said that if Russia is able to capture Bakhmut, then it would give a major boost to their confidence after facing series of setbacks. He said that it would help “mobilize their society in order to create this idea they’re such a powerful army.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-denies-involvement-in-nord-stream-pipelines-blast-569843">Ukraine denies involvement in Nord Stream pipelines blast</a>

Experts opine that Bakhmut holds little to no strategic significance for Russia. But they believe that fall of the eastern city would open doors to other cities like Kramatorsk and Sloviansk — two densely populated, industrial urban hubs to the northwest.

Responding to reports that some commanders and lower level officers have questioned the merit of holding Bakhmut amid a rising number of casualties, Zelensky said he has “never heard anything like that” from his commanders.

“We have to think about our people first and no one should be surrounded, encircled – this is very important,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. As Russia claims it is inching closer to seizing control of the Bakhmut city in the east, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has ruled out withdrawing the troops from the besieged city, saying that such a move will allow Russian forces to capture key cities in eastern Ukraine. “This is tactical for us,” Zelensky told CNN in an interview on Tuesday. “We understand that after Bakhmut they could go further. They could go to Kramatorsk, they could go to Sloviansk, it would be an open road for the Russians after Bakhmut to other towns in Ukraine, in the Donetsk direction,” he was quoted as saying. “That’s why our guys are standing there.” He stressed that Ukraine’s military will prolong its defence of the city despite Russia gaining an upper hand. The eastern city has been witnessing months of intense fighting, as Russian mercenary Wagner Group and Russian troops have been trying to seize it. Ukraine has been valiantly maintaining its defence, and stalling advancement of the Russian troops. Ukraine vows to keep defending Bakhmut amid constant attacks by Russian forces Ukraine's president and military commanders have agreed to strengthen their defence of Bakhmut. The Ukrainian leader said that there is a reason why they are stationing their troops there. “We understand what Russia wants to achieve there. Russia needs at least some victory – a small victory – even by ruining everything in Bakhmut, just killing every civilian there.” Zelensky said that if Russia is able to capture Bakhmut, then it would give a major boost to their confidence after facing series of setbacks. He said that it would help “mobilize their society in order to create this idea they’re such a powerful army.” Also read | Ukraine denies involvement in Nord Stream pipelines blast Experts opine that Bakhmut holds little to no strategic significance for Russia. But they believe that fall of the eastern city would open doors to other cities like Kramatorsk and Sloviansk — two densely populated, industrial urban hubs to the northwest. Responding to reports that some commanders and lower level officers have questioned the merit of holding Bakhmut amid a rising number of casualties, Zelensky said he has “never heard anything like that” from his commanders. “We have to think about our people first and no one should be surrounded, encircled – this is very important,” he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘Won’t withdraw from Bakhmut,’ says Ukraine’s Zelensky with Russia on cusp of seizing control city

President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine will continue military operations to defend the embattled city of Bakhmut, which will be backed by senior generals.

Zelensky said he held discussions over Bakhmut with Oleksandr Syrsky, commander of the country's ground forces, and Valery Zaluzhny, the head of Ukraine's armed forces, reported BBC.

"They spoke in favour of continuing the defensive operation and further strengthening our positions in Bakhmut," he said in a statement.

Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhailo Podolyak reiterated the "consensus" in the Ukraine army to continue fighting for Bakhmut, a city which Russia is determined to capture.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ordinary-bureaucracy-or-a-betrayal-wagner-chief-says-without-fresh-ammunition-bakhmut-could-collapse-569053">'Ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal?': Wagner chief says without promised ammunition, Bakhmut could collapse</a>

Bakhmut has witnessed the longest-running and bloodiest battle of the Russia-Ukraine war, even as analysts state that the city has little strategic significance.

"There is a consensus among the military on the need to continue defending the city and the attrition of enemy forces while building new lines and lines of defence in case the situation changes," Podolyak said.

As per Podolyak, their operations to defend Bakhmut has "achieved its goals" as it has exhausted Russia's "main combat-ready" units and provided the opportunity to train "tens of thousands of Ukrainian troops to prepare a counteroffensive."

He stated that "even if at some point the military leadership decides to withdraw to more advantageous positions", defending Bakhmut will be a "great strategic success" for the Ukrainian army.

"However, to date, no such decision has been made" by the military head, stated Podolyak.

Meanwhile, the head of Wagner's private army, which is fighting for Russia, said that it is not getting the required ammunition from Moscow, as it continues to make attempts to gain control of Bakhmut.

WATCH | Russia Ukraine War: Russia's Wagner Group says, 'Two years till Donetsk capture'

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Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin said that the lack of ammunition supply can be "ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal".

Earlier on Monday, Ukraine stated that the defences will be bolstered by Ukraine in the salt-mining city, where the two sides have suffered heavy losses.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine will continue military operations to defend the embattled city of Bakhmut, which will be backed by senior generals. Zelensky said he held discussions over Bakhmut with Oleksandr Syrsky, commander of the country's ground forces, and Valery Zaluzhny, the head of Ukraine's armed forces, reported BBC.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine will continue military operations to defend the embattled city of Bakhmut, which will be backed by senior generals. Zelensky said he held discussions over Bakhmut with Oleksandr Syrsky, commander of the country's ground forces, and Valery Zaluzhny, the head of Ukraine's armed forces, reported BBC. "They spoke in favour of continuing the defensive operation and further strengthening our positions in Bakhmut," he said in a statement. Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhailo Podolyak reiterated the "consensus" in the Ukraine army to continue fighting for Bakhmut, a city which Russia is determined to capture. ALSO READ | 'Ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal?': Wagner chief says without promised ammunition, Bakhmut could collapse Bakhmut has witnessed the longest-running and bloodiest battle of the Russia-Ukraine war, even as analysts state that the city has little strategic significance. "There is a consensus among the military on the need to continue defending the city and the attrition of enemy forces while building new lines and lines of defence in case the situation changes," Podolyak said. As per Podolyak, their operations to defend Bakhmut has "achieved its goals" as it has exhausted Russia's "main combat-ready" units and provided the opportunity to train "tens of thousands of Ukrainian troops to prepare a counteroffensive." He stated that "even if at some point the military leadership decides to withdraw to more advantageous positions", defending Bakhmut will be a "great strategic success" for the Ukrainian army. "However, to date, no such decision has been made" by the military head, stated Podolyak. Meanwhile, the head of Wagner's private army, which is fighting for Russia, said that it is not getting the required ammunition from Moscow, as it continues to make attempts to gain control of Bakhmut. WATCH | Russia Ukraine War: Russia's Wagner Group says, 'Two years till Donetsk capture' Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin said that the lack of ammunition supply can be "ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal". Earlier on Monday, Ukraine stated that the defences will be bolstered by Ukraine in the salt-mining city, where the two sides have suffered heavy losses. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) 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-Ukraine war | Operations to defend embattled Bakhmut will go on, says Zelensky

The head of the Russian mercenary group Wagner has warned that unless his troops are fortified with ammunition, Moscow's position in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is in peril. This, as per Reuters, can be seen as the latest sign of tensions between the Kremlin and the private militia chief. Ukrainian military officials and analysts too have reported reluctance on the part of Russia's 155th brigade leaders. Reportedly, after sustaining severe losses in fighting near the town of Vuhledar, south of Bakhmut, they are resisting orders to attack.

Watch |&nbsp;Russian forces surround Bakhmut; tide changes as Kyiv's hold weakens

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Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Wagner chief, said that Russia's front lines could collapse if his forces did not receive the ammunition that Moscow had promised in February.

"For now, we are trying to figure out the reason: is it just ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal," said Prigozhin on Telegram. He was referring to the absence of ammunition.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-begins-withdrawal-from-eastern-bakhmut-town-as-russia-gains-upper-hand-568405">Ukraine begins withdrawal from Bakhmut as Russia gains upper hand: Report</a>

"If Wagner retreats from Bakhmut now, the whole front will collapse," he said, adding "the situation will not be sweet for all military formations protecting Russian interests."

Prigozhin regularly criticises Russian defence chiefs and top generals. Reuters reports that in February he had even termed the withholding of munition supplies as "treason".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/battle-for-bakhmut-rages-on-as-russian-forces-attempt-to-encircle-city-residents-flee-568971">Battle for Bakhmut rages on as Russian forces attempt to ‘encircle’ city; residents flee</a>

A Russian victory in Bakhmut could give Moscow its first major prize in a costly winter offensive. Russia has acknowledged the city's importance and calls it a stepping stone to completing the capture of the Donbas industrial region, one of Moscow's important objectives.

The fighting in the city and around "is very much hell-like, as it is on the entire eastern front," as per Volodymyr Nazarenko, a commander of Ukrainian troops in Bakhmut.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The head of the Russian mercenary group Wagner has warned that unless his troops are fortified with ammunition, Moscow's position in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is in peril.

The head of the Russian mercenary group Wagner has warned that unless his troops are fortified with ammunition, Moscow's position in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is in peril. This, as per Reuters, can be seen as the latest sign of tensions between the Kremlin and the private militia chief. Ukrainian military officials and analysts too have reported reluctance on the part of Russia's 155th brigade leaders. Reportedly, after sustaining severe losses in fighting near the town of Vuhledar, south of Bakhmut, they are resisting orders to attack. Watch | Russian forces surround Bakhmut; tide changes as Kyiv's hold weakens Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Wagner chief, said that Russia's front lines could collapse if his forces did not receive the ammunition that Moscow had promised in February. "For now, we are trying to figure out the reason: is it just ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal," said Prigozhin on Telegram. He was referring to the absence of ammunition. Also read | Ukraine begins withdrawal from Bakhmut as Russia gains upper hand: Report "If Wagner retreats from Bakhmut now, the whole front will collapse," he said, adding "the situation will not be sweet for all military formations protecting Russian interests." Prigozhin regularly criticises Russian defence chiefs and top generals. Reuters reports that in February he had even termed the withholding of munition supplies as "treason". Also read | Battle for Bakhmut rages on as Russian forces attempt to ‘encircle’ city; residents flee A Russian victory in Bakhmut could give Moscow its first major prize in a costly winter offensive. Russia has acknowledged the city's importance and calls it a stepping stone to completing the capture of the Donbas industrial region, one of Moscow's important objectives. The fighting in the city and around "is very much hell-like, as it is on the entire eastern front," as per Volodymyr Nazarenko, a commander of Ukrainian troops in Bakhmut. (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.

'Ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal?': Wagner chief says without promised ammunition, Bakhmut could collapse

One year of Russia-Ukraine war: 'Terrible toll' of the conflict in numbers

In February 2022, about 11 weeks after New Delhi and Moscow signed a joint statement titled ‘India-Russia Partnership for Peace, Progress and Prosperity’, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced 'special military operations' in the predominantly Russian-speaking <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/key-city-in-donbas-largely-under-russian-control-says-ukraine-486382">Donbas region</a> of Ukraine.&nbsp;

"I hope you hear me," Putin <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wq6LcYDVsw8">said</a> on February 24, 2022, pointing towards the West. "Anyone who considers interfering from outside, you will face consequences greater than you have ever faced in history," he said while declaring the offensive which, according to a US military estimate, has resulted in 100,000 military casualties on both Russian and Ukrainian sides so far.

Putin’s declaration put countries with whom Moscow shares ‘special’ or ‘privileged’ bilateral ties – such as India, the United Arab Emirates, Israel and Turkey among others –- in a rare geopolitical tight spot. For months, Russia was holding a gun to Ukraine’s head, citing ‘security challenges’ such as an eastward expansion of NATO despite West’s past diplomatic assurances against the same.&nbsp;

That day, Putin pulled the trigger, shooting much of the Russian diplomatic capital in the West, and sending combative shockwaves across the Global South. The term Global South has come to be associated with the countries that were left out of the industrialisation wave, mostly the nations in the regions of Latin America, Africa, Asia and Oceania.

At its centre continues to be a geopolitically rising India, with a long history of bilateral bonhomie with Russia and the erstwhile Soviet Union.

<h2>India: A sane voice amid the war cry</h2>

India's careful geopolitical navigation was visible on February 23rd when New Delhi abstained from a non-binding&nbsp;UN vote that called upon Moscow to end hostilities against Kyiv.&nbsp;India's permanent representative to the UN Ruchira Kamboj quoted Prime Minister Narendra Modi while asserting&nbsp;that "no solution can ever arrive at the cost of human lives".&nbsp;India, while recognising the&nbsp;"inherent limitations" of the said resolution, added&nbsp;that it is "constrained to abstain" and that&nbsp;only viable way out of the conflict are "dialogue and diplomacy".

ALSO WATCH&nbsp;|&nbsp;How has the Russia- Ukraine war changed the word?

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India's voice has been that of&nbsp;restraint, that&nbsp;maintains&nbsp;its signature strategic autonomy, while calling for the ‘cessation of hostilities’ and upholding of the UN charter, according to experts. At the same time, India’s reaction to the Russian military action has been rooted in protecting New Delhi’s national interests with its desire to reduce hostilities between the two sides, they say.&nbsp;

“India has been following the buildup of tensions for the last several years and always knew that this was no ordinary conflict or war in the classical sense. It is a multilayered conflict with deep roots in history,” said Pankaj Saran, India’s former deputy National Security Advisor (2018- 2021), a job he took soon after returning from Moscow as India’s envoy (2016-2018). Saran is currently the convenor of New Delhi-based Centre for Research on Security and Strategic Issues.

“The issues involved relate to the fundamentals of the European security architecture,” Saran told WION, referring to the security implications of the US-led transatlantic alliance.

Anil Wadhwa, India’s former envoy to Italy, Poland and Lithuania, Thailand, and Oman, added that New Delhi’s response to the war has been characterised by ‘restraint’, that is, “condemnation of the civilian killings and abstention from the votes on the UN resolutions by the United States and West”.&nbsp;

“This is not an isolated position,” Wadhwa said, while referring to the multilateral posturing of the countries such as the UAE, South Africa, Israel and Turkey in relation to the ongoing war. &nbsp;

During the one year of war, in its abstentions from the UN votes condemning Russian actions against Ukraine, India has often found itself in the company of South Africa and China – two of its BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) partners. Individually, despite their bilateral issues, both New Delhi and Beijing have courted Moscow to ‘end the war’. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s famous ‘<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/todays-era-must-not-be-of-war-g20-draft-communique-uses-indian-pm-modis-remarks-to-putin-534278">today’s era is not of war</a>’ pitch to Vladimir Putin found its place in the Bali G20 declaration, shadowing a much-complicated geopolitical challenge as New Delhi took over the G20 presidency — during what has now become the second year of war in Ukraine.

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In February 2022, about 11 weeks after New Delhi and Moscow signed a joint statement titled ‘India-Russia Partnership for Peace, Progress and Prosperity’, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced 'special military operations' in the predominantly Russian-speaking Donbas region of Ukraine.

In February 2022, about 11 weeks after New Delhi and Moscow signed a joint statement titled ‘India-Russia Partnership for Peace, Progress and Prosperity’, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced 'special military operations' in the predominantly Russian-speaking Donbas region of Ukraine. "I hope you hear me," Putin said on February 24, 2022, pointing towards the West. "Anyone who considers interfering from outside, you will face consequences greater than you have ever faced in history," he said while declaring the offensive which, according to a US military estimate, has resulted in 100,000 military casualties on both Russian and Ukrainian sides so far. Putin’s declaration put countries with whom Moscow shares ‘special’ or ‘privileged’ bilateral ties – such as India, the United Arab Emirates, Israel and Turkey among others –- in a rare geopolitical tight spot. For months, Russia was holding a gun to Ukraine’s head, citing ‘security challenges’ such as an eastward expansion of NATO despite West’s past diplomatic assurances against the same. That day, Putin pulled the trigger, shooting much of the Russian diplomatic capital in the West, and sending combative shockwaves across the Global South. The term Global South has come to be associated with the countries that were left out of the industrialisation wave, mostly the nations in the regions of Latin America, Africa, Asia and Oceania. At its centre continues to be a geopolitically rising India, with a long history of bilateral bonhomie with Russia and the erstwhile Soviet Union. India: A sane voice amid the war cry India's careful geopolitical navigation was visible on February 23rd when New Delhi abstained from a non-binding UN vote that called upon Moscow to end hostilities against Kyiv. India's permanent representative to the UN Ruchira Kamboj quoted Prime Minister Narendra Modi while asserting that "no solution can ever arrive at the cost of human lives". India, while recognising the "inherent limitations" of the said resolution, added that it is "constrained to abstain" and that only viable way out of the conflict are "dialogue and diplomacy". ALSO WATCH | How has the Russia- Ukraine war changed the word? × India's voice has been that of restraint, that maintains its signature strategic autonomy, while calling for the ‘cessation of hostilities’ and upholding of the UN charter, according to experts. At the same time, India’s reaction to the Russian military action has been rooted in protecting New Delhi’s national interests with its desire to reduce hostilities between the two sides, they say. “India has been following the buildup of tensions for the last several years and always knew that this was no ordinary conflict or war in the classical sense. It is a multilayered conflict with deep roots in history,” said Pankaj Saran, India’s former deputy National Security Advisor (2018- 2021), a job he took soon after returning from Moscow as India’s envoy (2016-2018). Saran is currently the convenor of New Delhi-based Centre for Research on Security and Strategic Issues. “The issues involved relate to the fundamentals of the European security architecture,” Saran told WION, referring to the security implications of the US-led transatlantic alliance. Anil Wadhwa, India’s former envoy to Italy, Poland and Lithuania, Thailand, and Oman, added that New Delhi’s response to the war has been characterised by ‘restraint’, that is, “condemnation of the civilian killings and abstention from the votes on the UN resolutions by the United States and West”. “This is not an isolated position,” Wadhwa said, while referring to the multilateral posturing of the countries such as the UAE, South Africa, Israel and Turkey in relation to the ongoing war. During the one year of war, in its abstentions from the UN votes condemning Russian actions against Ukraine, India has often found itself in the company of South Africa and China – two of its BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) partners. Individually, despite their bilateral issues, both New Delhi and Beijing have courted Moscow to ‘end the war’. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s famous ‘today’s era is not of war’ pitch to Vladimir Putin found its place in the Bali G20 declaration, shadowing a much-complicated geopolitical challenge as New Delhi took over the G20 presidency — during what has now become the second year of war in Ukraine. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia-Ukraine war anniversary: India's 'mature' geopolitical navigation amid pressure is in spotlight

One year of Russia-Ukraine war: Here's how the global community marked the anniversary

As per reports, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky plans to attend an upcoming NATO summit in person. In July 2023, Vilnius, Lithuania will host a two-day NATO summit, which the Ukrainian President plans to attend in the flesh. The news was shared with newswire BNS by Petro Beshta, Ukraine's ambassador to Lithuania. This potential visit would be Zelensky's third trip out of Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian invasion; he previously visited Washington in December 2022, and in February of this year, he visited London, Paris and Brussels. &nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Biden’s five hours in Kyiv could spell disaster for Ukraine | WION Game Plan

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The Vilnius summit is slated to be held mid-July, on the 11th and 12th. As per a Reuters report citing Lithuania's presidential office, it will be attended by most leaders of the Atlantic alliance. This means that US President Joe Biden will also be in attendance at the NATO summit.

Biden on Tuesday (February 21st) also made a surprise visit to Ukraine's capital, Kyiv. His surprise visit was hailed as "historic". Following it, Russian President Vladimir Putin in a speech announced that Moscow will be abandoning the last major arms control treaty with Washington.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-anniversary-how-russia-is-trying-to-drive-support-for-the-invasion-564560">Ukraine war anniversary: How Russia is trying to drive support for the invasion</a>

As per ambassador&nbsp;Beshta, Ukraine hopes that the attendees at the summit would agree "very clearly that as soon as the war is over, Ukraine becomes a member of NATO".&nbsp;"This is our plan," he said, during the interview with BNS.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As per reports, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky plans to attend an upcoming NATO summit in person. In July 2023, Vilnius, Lithuania will host a two-day NATO summit, which the Ukrainian President plans to attend in the flesh.

As per reports, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky plans to attend an upcoming NATO summit in person. In July 2023, Vilnius, Lithuania will host a two-day NATO summit, which the Ukrainian President plans to attend in the flesh. The news was shared with newswire BNS by Petro Beshta, Ukraine's ambassador to Lithuania. This potential visit would be Zelensky's third trip out of Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian invasion; he previously visited Washington in December 2022, and in February of this year, he visited London, Paris and Brussels. Watch | Biden’s five hours in Kyiv could spell disaster for Ukraine | WION Game Plan The Vilnius summit is slated to be held mid-July, on the 11th and 12th. As per a Reuters report citing Lithuania's presidential office, it will be attended by most leaders of the Atlantic alliance. This means that US President Joe Biden will also be in attendance at the NATO summit. Biden on Tuesday (February 21st) also made a surprise visit to Ukraine's capital, Kyiv. His surprise visit was hailed as "historic". Following it, Russian President Vladimir Putin in a speech announced that Moscow will be abandoning the last major arms control treaty with Washington. Also read | Ukraine war anniversary: How Russia is trying to drive support for the invasion As per ambassador Beshta, Ukraine hopes that the attendees at the summit would agree "very clearly that as soon as the war is over, Ukraine becomes a member of NATO". "This is our plan," he said, during the interview with BNS. (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 Volodymyr Zelensky plans to attend upcoming NATO meet in person

Ahead of Ukraine war completing its one year, US President Joe Biden delivered an impassioned speech from Polish capital, Warsaw. Biden's speech came hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered his annual state of the nation address.

Russian President Vladimir Putin left with burned out tanks: US President Joe Biden

One year on, the key battles of the Russia-Ukraine war

As US President Joe Biden visited Ukraine to meet with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky, China's top diplomat Wang Yi is due to visit Russia. According to reports, the Chinese diplomat is likely to visit Moscow on Tuesday.

China says it is 'deeply worried' over Ukraine conflict

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky joined Hollywood actor Sean Penn by video link on Thursday at the opening of the Berlinale, Europe's first major film festival of the year, calling for the entertainment world to maintain its "solidarity" with his besieged country.

The 73rd annual event, traditionally the most politically minded of the three big European cinema showcases, is marking the first anniversary of the Russian invasion as well as anti-regime protests in Iran with new feature films and documentaries.

Penn appeared on stage at the festival's inaugural gala and introduced the Ukrainian leader, who spoke live via video stream and was greeted by a standing ovation from the audience.

"Cinema cannot change the world," said Zelensky, wearing his now trademark sweatshirt. "But it can influence and inspire people who can change the world." 
 
Penn, who was filming in Kyiv at the start of the Russian onslaught, will this weekend premiere "Superpower", tracking Zelensky's transformation from comedian to president to war hero.

The two-time Oscar winner said he had just returned from the Ukrainian capital.

"Nothing has changed in terms of the will of the Ukrainian people," Penn said. "That's for sure. If anything, it's just gotten stronger."

The festival's artistic director Carlo Chatrian paid tribute to "the suffering population, the millions who left Ukraine and the artists (who) have remained defending the country and continue filming the war".

US actor Kristen Stewart ("Spencer"), head of the jury for the Golden and Silver Bear top prizes, told reporters earlier that the event was "an enormous opportunity to have a hand in highlighting beautiful things" in the face of global turmoil. 
"It's the job of an artist to take a disgusting and ugly thing and sort of transmute it and put it through your body and pump out something more beautiful... in response to the world that's falling apart around us," she said.

Beyond movie screenings, the Berlinale plans panel discussions with embattled directors and red-carpet protests in a show of "solidarity" with the people of Iran and Ukraine.

- 'Desire for peace' - 
 
Hollywood actors Peter Dinklage, Anne Hathaway and Marisa Tomei presented their romantic comedy "She Came to Me" by director Rebecca Miller, the first of nearly 300 new movies from around the world to screen during the 11-day event.

They told reporters they were honoured to premiere the film at a ceremony addressed by Zelensky, with Hathaway calling him "a hero of our times". 
 
She thanked the festival "for giving us all the opportunity to amplify the message of Ukraine, which is the almost universal desire for peace".

Miller, whose movie addresses fraught US race relations and tensions over religious beliefs, said she saw filmmaking as "a kind of patriotic act to show different aspects of our country".

"One of the ways in which we can perhaps have a more peaceful world is by having our art talk to each other across the nations," she said.&nbsp;

Nineteen films will vie for the main awards, including British-US co-production "Manodrome" featuring Jesse Eisenberg and Adrien Brody in a thriller about an Uber driver who is lured into a cult while he is expecting his first child.

Two Asian animated pictures will also join the running, "Art College 1994" by China's Liu Jian and Makoto Shinkai's "Suzume", the first Japanese anime to compete at the Berlinale since Hayao Miyazaki's "Spirited Away" clinched the Golden Bear in 2002. 
 
- Gold for Spielberg - 
 
After lean years due to the pandemic, it is the starriest Berlinale edition in recent memory, with Helen Mirren, Vicky Krieps, folk legend Joan Baez and U2 frontman Bono also awaited on the red carpet.

Three-time Academy Award winner Steven Spielberg is to collect an honorary Golden Bear for his life's work, honoured with a retrospective.

A third of the films in competition are by women, who make up 40 percent of all directors represented in the official selection.

The Berlinale ranks with Cannes and Venice among Europe's leading film festivals. It will hand out the top prizes on February 25 before wrapping up the next day with screenings of popular movies from this year's event.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky joined Hollywood actor Sean Penn by video link on Thursday at the opening of the Berlinale, Europe's first major film festival of the year, calling for the entertainment world to maintain its "solidarity" with his besieged country.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky joined Hollywood actor Sean Penn by video link on Thursday at the opening of the Berlinale, Europe's first major film festival of the year, calling for the entertainment world to maintain its "solidarity" with his besieged country. The 73rd annual event, traditionally the most politically minded of the three big European cinema showcases, is marking the first anniversary of the Russian invasion as well as anti-regime protests in Iran with new feature films and documentaries. Penn appeared on stage at the festival's inaugural gala and introduced the Ukrainian leader, who spoke live via video stream and was greeted by a standing ovation from the audience. "Cinema cannot change the world," said Zelensky, wearing his now trademark sweatshirt. "But it can influence and inspire people who can change the world." Penn, who was filming in Kyiv at the start of the Russian onslaught, will this weekend premiere "Superpower", tracking Zelensky's transformation from comedian to president to war hero. The two-time Oscar winner said he had just returned from the Ukrainian capital. "Nothing has changed in terms of the will of the Ukrainian people," Penn said. "That's for sure. If anything, it's just gotten stronger." The festival's artistic director Carlo Chatrian paid tribute to "the suffering population, the millions who left Ukraine and the artists (who) have remained defending the country and continue filming the war". US actor Kristen Stewart ("Spencer"), head of the jury for the Golden and Silver Bear top prizes, told reporters earlier that the event was "an enormous opportunity to have a hand in highlighting beautiful things" in the face of global turmoil. "It's the job of an artist to take a disgusting and ugly thing and sort of transmute it and put it through your body and pump out something more beautiful... in response to the world that's falling apart around us," she said. Beyond movie screenings, the Berlinale plans panel discussions with embattled directors and red-carpet protests in a show of "solidarity" with the people of Iran and Ukraine. - 'Desire for peace' - Hollywood actors Peter Dinklage, Anne Hathaway and Marisa Tomei presented their romantic comedy "She Came to Me" by director Rebecca Miller, the first of nearly 300 new movies from around the world to screen during the 11-day event. They told reporters they were honoured to premiere the film at a ceremony addressed by Zelensky, with Hathaway calling him "a hero of our times". She thanked the festival "for giving us all the opportunity to amplify the message of Ukraine, which is the almost universal desire for peace". Miller, whose movie addresses fraught US race relations and tensions over religious beliefs, said she saw filmmaking as "a kind of patriotic act to show different aspects of our country". "One of the ways in which we can perhaps have a more peaceful world is by having our art talk to each other across the nations," she said. Nineteen films will vie for the main awards, including British-US co-production "Manodrome" featuring Jesse Eisenberg and Adrien Brody in a thriller about an Uber driver who is lured into a cult while he is expecting his first child. Two Asian animated pictures will also join the running, "Art College 1994" by China's Liu Jian and Makoto Shinkai's "Suzume", the first Japanese anime to compete at the Berlinale since Hayao Miyazaki's "Spirited Away" clinched the Golden Bear in 2002. - Gold for Spielberg - After lean years due to the pandemic, it is the starriest Berlinale edition in recent memory, with Helen Mirren, Vicky Krieps, folk legend Joan Baez and U2 frontman Bono also awaited on the red carpet. Three-time Academy Award winner Steven Spielberg is to collect an honorary Golden Bear for his life's work, honoured with a retrospective. A third of the films in competition are by women, who make up 40 percent of all directors represented in the official selection. The Berlinale ranks with Cannes and Venice among Europe's leading film festivals. It will hand out the top prizes on February 25 before wrapping up the next day with screenings of popular movies from this year's event.

Berlin film fest beams in Volodymyr Zelensky for opener with Sean Penn

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sacked a senior security figure on Saturday (February 11), stating that his drive to clean up the government would continue.&nbsp;Amid the ongoing war, Ukrainian authorities have dismissed dozens of officials in recent weeks and investigations have also been opened in several cases as part of a widespread drive against corruption and wrongdoing.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to a brief decree issued by the presidential office, Zelensky dismissed Ruslan Dziuba as deputy commander of the National Guard. However, the Ukrainian president didn't give any reasons for the action.&nbsp;

On one side, Zelensky has lobbied allies to supply modern weapons to tackle Russian forces, and on the other, he has stressed the need for the defence ministry in particular to be cleaned up.&nbsp;

He did not specifically mention Dziuba in his daily video address, but it can be seen as a move towards realising his aim to join the European Union as the EU says addressing corruption is a requirement for Ukraine to join the 27-member bloc.&nbsp;

Referring to the crackdown, he said: "All this activity is not just about certain episodes or criminal proceedings...the state will continue to modernise the institutions themselves. The purity of the work of state structures must be guaranteed."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia's progress MS-21 Cargo ship faces depressurization&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, Kyiv's top military commander said on Saturday that Ukraine's forces hold defence along the frontline in Donetsk, including the town of Bakhmut. In the past few weeks, fighting has been raging on for the cities of Vuhledar and Maryinka.&nbsp;

Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, who is the commander-in-chief of Ukraine's Armed Forces, said Russia carries out some 50 attacks daily in Donetsk.&nbsp;

In a Telegram message, Zaluzhnyi said: "Fierce fighting continues in the area of Vuhledar and Maryinka. We reliably hold the defence. In some areas of the front, we have managed to regain previously lost positions and gained a foothold."&nbsp;

His comments came after a call with US General Mark Milley.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sacked a senior security figure on Saturday (February 11), stating that his drive to clean up the government would continue.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sacked a senior security figure on Saturday (February 11), stating that his drive to clean up the government would continue. Amid the ongoing war, Ukrainian authorities have dismissed dozens of officials in recent weeks and investigations have also been opened in several cases as part of a widespread drive against corruption and wrongdoing. According to a brief decree issued by the presidential office, Zelensky dismissed Ruslan Dziuba as deputy commander of the National Guard. However, the Ukrainian president didn't give any reasons for the action. On one side, Zelensky has lobbied allies to supply modern weapons to tackle Russian forces, and on the other, he has stressed the need for the defence ministry in particular to be cleaned up. He did not specifically mention Dziuba in his daily video address, but it can be seen as a move towards realising his aim to join the European Union as the EU says addressing corruption is a requirement for Ukraine to join the 27-member bloc. Referring to the crackdown, he said: "All this activity is not just about certain episodes or criminal proceedings...the state will continue to modernise the institutions themselves. The purity of the work of state structures must be guaranteed." WATCH | Russia's progress MS-21 Cargo ship faces depressurization × Meanwhile, Kyiv's top military commander said on Saturday that Ukraine's forces hold defence along the frontline in Donetsk, including the town of Bakhmut. In the past few weeks, fighting has been raging on for the cities of Vuhledar and Maryinka. Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, who is the commander-in-chief of Ukraine's Armed Forces, said Russia carries out some 50 attacks daily in Donetsk. In a Telegram message, Zaluzhnyi said: "Fierce fighting continues in the area of Vuhledar and Maryinka. We reliably hold the defence. In some areas of the front, we have managed to regain previously lost positions and gained a foothold." His comments came after a call with US General Mark Milley. (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 sacks top official as the clean-up drive continues amid war

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday warned that even if the European allies decide to send fighter jets to Kyiv, they can't be dispatched in "the coming weeks".

"I'm not ruling anything out ... but that doesn't correspond to today's requirements," said Macron, after an EU summit in Brussels, where Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky was also present.&nbsp;

A renewed offensive has been launched by Russia in the war-torn east of Ukraine and this week, Zelensky visited London, Paris and Brussels as he appealed for more advanced weapons for his country.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-escalation-has-already-started-in-the-east-ukrainian-officials-say-560461">Russian escalation has already started in the east, Ukrainian officials say</a>

Ukraine has been demanding heavy tanks, long-range missiles and western combat jets, however, the nation is running out of basic supplies like artillery shells.

Britain has agreed to provide training to the Ukrainian pilots on Western jets, while Slovakia and Poland have been planning to supply more Soviet-designed Mig-29 fighters which Kyiv is already using.

However, the allies of Ukraine are concerned that sending advanced Western fighter jets would escalate the tensions with Moscow and may result in open conflict between Russia and NATO.&nbsp;

Zelensky was hailed as a hero by Macron along with other EU leaders in Brussels, as they promised to support Ukraine till victory is achieved, however, they remain cautious about sending fighter jets.

WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: UK promises to train Ukrainian pilots

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"It is essential the allies favour the most useful equipment" and "the fastest", &nbsp;said Macron, citing the MAMBA medium-range surface-to-air defence system and the Caesar guns which were supplied by France.&nbsp;

He added that it may be important to finalise the delivery of munitions and artillery pieces so that Ukraine can resist or launch ground offensives, as he promised to "work on it in the coming days".

(With inputs from agencies)

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French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday warned that even if the European allies decide to send fighter jets to Kyiv, they can't be dispatched in "the coming weeks".

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday warned that even if the European allies decide to send fighter jets to Kyiv, they can't be dispatched in "the coming weeks". "I'm not ruling anything out ... but that doesn't correspond to today's requirements," said Macron, after an EU summit in Brussels, where Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky was also present. A renewed offensive has been launched by Russia in the war-torn east of Ukraine and this week, Zelensky visited London, Paris and Brussels as he appealed for more advanced weapons for his country. ALSO READ | Russian escalation has already started in the east, Ukrainian officials say Ukraine has been demanding heavy tanks, long-range missiles and western combat jets, however, the nation is running out of basic supplies like artillery shells. Britain has agreed to provide training to the Ukrainian pilots on Western jets, while Slovakia and Poland have been planning to supply more Soviet-designed Mig-29 fighters which Kyiv is already using. However, the allies of Ukraine are concerned that sending advanced Western fighter jets would escalate the tensions with Moscow and may result in open conflict between Russia and NATO. Zelensky was hailed as a hero by Macron along with other EU leaders in Brussels, as they promised to support Ukraine till victory is achieved, however, they remain cautious about sending fighter jets. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: UK promises to train Ukrainian pilots "It is essential the allies favour the most useful equipment" and "the fastest", said Macron, citing the MAMBA medium-range surface-to-air defence system and the Caesar guns which were supplied by France. He added that it may be important to finalise the delivery of munitions and artillery pieces so that Ukraine can resist or launch ground offensives, as he promised to "work on it in the coming days". (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

Macron says European allies won't be able to send fighter jets to Ukraine in coming weeks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made some strong points as he addressed the European Union leaders and the European Parliament in Brussels on Thursday (February 9). Zelensky said that&nbsp;Europe wouldn't be free without a free Ukraine as he urged allies to accelerate the promised delivery of modern long-range weapons.

The Ukrainian president is on a rare visit, only his second foreign trip since Russia's full-scale invasion started last year in February, causing food and fuel crises globally.&nbsp;

Zelensky was in London on Wednesday where he met United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and British monarch King Charles III and also addressed the nation's parliament. After that, he went to Paris.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian president lobbied the allies in Europe to provide modern fighter jets and long-range missiles. Zelensky then flew to Brussels to address EU leaders and the European parliament.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spacex-prevents-ukraine-from-using-starlink-internet-for-controlling-drones-560371">SpaceX prevents Ukraine from using Starlink internet for controlling drones</a>&nbsp;

Zelensky told MEPs, "We are defending against the most anti-European force of the modern world -- we are defending ourselves, we Ukrainians on the battlefield, along with you."&nbsp;

Zelensky received a standing ovation during the parliamentary address and after that, he joined the 27 leaders of the EU member states as the special guest at their regular summit, where he made an opening address.&nbsp;

"I have to thank you personally for your unwavering support of our country and our aspirations, our aspirations to live in a united, free Europe," he told them.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia: US should pay compensation to countries affected&nbsp;

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He again said that Ukraine needs artillery, munitions, modern tanks, long-range missiles and fighter jets "faster than the aggressor" can prepare what he said would be a dangerous new offensive.&nbsp;

Zelensky said after the meeting that "there are positive signals, concerning the respective weapons. I really want these signals to move to concrete sounds to concrete voice, the voice that is not afraid that Russia will hear."&nbsp;

<h2 data-qa-component="item-headline" dir="auto" title="EU's Michel: We need to provide maximum support for Ukraine">'Provide maximum support for Ukraine'&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, European Council President Charles Michel told reporters that the EU must continue to provide maximum support to Ukraine.&nbsp;

Michel said during a joint press conference with Zelensky and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen: "We consider that the coming weeks and months will probably be decisive... It’s not the time to tremble. It’s time to remain rational and time to deploy maximum support."&nbsp;

<h2>'Ukraine should become an EU member'</h2>

Zelensky said&nbsp;Ukraine should become an EU member, arguing the bloc wouldn't be whole without his country being its integral part.&nbsp;

But Michel told Zelensky that he would first need to have all member states agree to it when he told the news conference that "when I say this year I mean this year, 2023".&nbsp;

Michel stressed that "the road to peace, reconstruction and membership will be a long, hard road," before adding: "We'll be with you every step of the way."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made some strong points as he addressed the European Union leaders and the European Parliament in Brussels on Thursday (February 9).

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made some strong points as he addressed the European Union leaders and the European Parliament in Brussels on Thursday (February 9). Zelensky said that Europe wouldn't be free without a free Ukraine as he urged allies to accelerate the promised delivery of modern long-range weapons. The Ukrainian president is on a rare visit, only his second foreign trip since Russia's full-scale invasion started last year in February, causing food and fuel crises globally. Zelensky was in London on Wednesday where he met United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and British monarch King Charles III and also addressed the nation's parliament. After that, he went to Paris. The Ukrainian president lobbied the allies in Europe to provide modern fighter jets and long-range missiles. Zelensky then flew to Brussels to address EU leaders and the European parliament. ALSO READ | SpaceX prevents Ukraine from using Starlink internet for controlling drones Zelensky told MEPs, "We are defending against the most anti-European force of the modern world -- we are defending ourselves, we Ukrainians on the battlefield, along with you." Zelensky received a standing ovation during the parliamentary address and after that, he joined the 27 leaders of the EU member states as the special guest at their regular summit, where he made an opening address. "I have to thank you personally for your unwavering support of our country and our aspirations, our aspirations to live in a united, free Europe," he told them. WATCH | Russia: US should pay compensation to countries affected × He again said that Ukraine needs artillery, munitions, modern tanks, long-range missiles and fighter jets "faster than the aggressor" can prepare what he said would be a dangerous new offensive. Zelensky said after the meeting that "there are positive signals, concerning the respective weapons. I really want these signals to move to concrete sounds to concrete voice, the voice that is not afraid that Russia will hear." 'Provide maximum support for Ukraine' Meanwhile, European Council President Charles Michel told reporters that the EU must continue to provide maximum support to Ukraine. Michel said during a joint press conference with Zelensky and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen: "We consider that the coming weeks and months will probably be decisive... It’s not the time to tremble. It’s time to remain rational and time to deploy maximum support." 'Ukraine should become an EU member' Zelensky said Ukraine should become an EU member, arguing the bloc wouldn't be whole without his country being its integral part. But Michel told Zelensky that he would first need to have all member states agree to it when he told the news conference that "when I say this year I mean this year, 2023". Michel stressed that "the road to peace, reconstruction and membership will be a long, hard road," before adding: "We'll be with you every step of the way." (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.

There's no free Europe without free Ukraine, says Zelensky at EU summit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reached Brussels on Thursday as part of his surprise European tour that kickstarted on Wednesday with a trip to London and then Paris. In Brussels, Zelensky is expected to lobby EU leaders for jets and long-range weapons to shore up Kyiv's defences against the Russian invasion. He is also likely to talk about getting a quick start to EU membership for his country.

Zelensky is also due to address the European Parliament during his visit to the Belgian capital. He will then attend the regular summit of the 27 European Union heads of state and government.

On Wednesday, he met UK leaders in London and then inspected Ukrainian troops training on western war gear. Later, he flew to Paris where he dined with President Emmanuel Macron and Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz. It was Zelensky's second overseas trip since the Russian military intervention began last year. He had earlier visited Washington in December.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-repeats-demand-for-combat-jets-during-his-rare-visit-to-uk-560094">Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky repeats demand for combat jets during his visit to UK</a>

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak promised him to train Ukrainian pilots on advanced NATO fighter jets. Macron and Scholz vowed continued support for Ukraine, with Zelensky once again pressing for advanced arms.

"France and Germany have the potential to be game changers and that's how I see our talks today," Zelensky said. "The sooner we get heavy long range weapons and our pilots get modern planes...the quicker this Russian aggression will end."

At a joint news conference, Sunak said "nothing is off the table" when it comes to supplying Ukraine with jets to fight Russia. He showed Zelensky the Challenger tanks London is sending to Ukraine alongside German-built Leopards.

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While it seems unlikely that Zelensky will be able to secure immediate supplies, it is an opportunity to present his country's case in person since Russia's invasion nearly one year ago on February 24, 2022.

Meanwhile, the EU leaders are expected to tell Zelensky about the 67 billion euros ($72 billion) they have spent on military and financial aid to Kyiv.&nbsp;

Ukraine's army is facing a renewed Russian offensive and is stressing upon the need for modern western fighter jets to free its skies from Moscow.

"The sooner Ukraine gets long-range heavy weaponry, the sooner our pilots get planes, the sooner this Russian aggression will end and we can return to peace in Europe," Zelensky said in Paris.

"There is very little time," he warned.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reached Brussels on Thursday as part of his surprise European tour that kickstarted on Wednesday with a trip to London and then Paris.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reached Brussels on Thursday as part of his surprise European tour that kickstarted on Wednesday with a trip to London and then Paris. In Brussels, Zelensky is expected to lobby EU leaders for jets and long-range weapons to shore up Kyiv's defences against the Russian invasion. He is also likely to talk about getting a quick start to EU membership for his country. Zelensky is also due to address the European Parliament during his visit to the Belgian capital. He will then attend the regular summit of the 27 European Union heads of state and government. On Wednesday, he met UK leaders in London and then inspected Ukrainian troops training on western war gear. Later, he flew to Paris where he dined with President Emmanuel Macron and Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz. It was Zelensky's second overseas trip since the Russian military intervention began last year. He had earlier visited Washington in December. Also Read | Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky repeats demand for combat jets during his visit to UK British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak promised him to train Ukrainian pilots on advanced NATO fighter jets. Macron and Scholz vowed continued support for Ukraine, with Zelensky once again pressing for advanced arms. "France and Germany have the potential to be game changers and that's how I see our talks today," Zelensky said. "The sooner we get heavy long range weapons and our pilots get modern planes...the quicker this Russian aggression will end." At a joint news conference, Sunak said "nothing is off the table" when it comes to supplying Ukraine with jets to fight Russia. He showed Zelensky the Challenger tanks London is sending to Ukraine alongside German-built Leopards. × While it seems unlikely that Zelensky will be able to secure immediate supplies, it is an opportunity to present his country's case in person since Russia's invasion nearly one year ago on February 24, 2022. Meanwhile, the EU leaders are expected to tell Zelensky about the 67 billion euros ($72 billion) they have spent on military and financial aid to Kyiv. Ukraine's army is facing a renewed Russian offensive and is stressing upon the need for modern western fighter jets to free its skies from Moscow. "The sooner Ukraine gets long-range heavy weaponry, the sooner our pilots get planes, the sooner this Russian aggression will end and we can return to peace in Europe," Zelensky said in Paris. "There is very little time," he warned. (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 reaches Brussels to pitch for jets, more weapons and EU membership

On Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the European Parliament, thanking the bloc's representatives for their support. "We are fighting ourselves against the biggest anti-European force in contemporary history," he said. "On the battlefield, we Ukrainians are defending you."

BREAKING: Zelensky arrives at EU summit in Brussels, expected to press for more weapons

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky will be visiting united Kingdom on his second foreign visit since the Russian invasion as per the statement issued by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak office, Zelensky will visit Ukrainian forces currently training in Britain.

Ukraine's President Zelensky's first visit to UK since Russia-Ukraine war

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Chancellor Olaf Scholz said on Sunday (January 29) that Germany will not send fighter jets to Ukraine. His remarks come after Berlin agreed to supply 14 powerful Leopard tanks to Kyiv amid intense pressure from other European counties.&nbsp;

Ukraine has asked the West to supply powerful weapons for its fight against the Russian invasion. The West initially hesitated to engage in direct conflict with Russia, but later agreed and sent tanks.&nbsp;

Besides Germany, the United States also announced that it would send 31 of its Abrams tanks. Canada said that it will also supply heavy tanks to Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-forces-repelled-attacks-near-blahodatne-russias-wagner-claims-control-557054">Ukrainian forces ‘repel attacks’ near Blahodatne, Russia’s Wagner claims control</a>&nbsp;

In an interview with the Tagesspiegel newspaper, Scholz said: "I can only advise against entering into a constant bidding war when it comes to weapons systems."&nbsp;

He added, "If, as soon as a decision (on tanks) has been made, the next debate starts in Germany, that doesn't come across as serious and undermines citizens' confidence in government decisions."&nbsp;

After receiving tanks, Ukraine demanded fighter jets and long-range missiles. Moscow has already said multiple times that it will be considered an escalation if the West agrees to supply long-range missiles, that can penetrate deep inside Russian regions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-joe-biden-brought-us-to-the-brink-of-world-war-iii-557070">Donald Trump says Joe Biden 'brought us to the brink of World War III'</a>&nbsp;

Scholz in the interview warned against raising "the risk of escalation". He said,&nbsp;"There is no war between NATO and Russia. We will not allow such an escalation."&nbsp;

"I will talk to Putin by phone again," Scholz said, noting that&nbsp;it was "necessary" to continue speaking with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The last phone call between the leaders was in early December.

"But of course, it's also clear that as long as Russia continues to wage war with unabated aggression, the current situation will not change."

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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<h2>Zelensky says Ukraine needs faster supplies, new weapons</h2>

Meanwhile, President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Ukraine needs faster weapons supplies and new types of weaponry in order to counter Russian attacks as the Ukrainian troops are facing a "very tough" situation in the eastern Donetsk region.&nbsp;

In his nightly video address on Sunday (January 29), Zelensky said, "Bakhmut, Vuhledar and other sectors in Donetsk region -- there are constant Russian attacks."&nbsp;

He added, "Russia hopes to drag out the war and exhaust our forces. So, we have to make time for our weapons. We have to accelerate developments. We have to speed up the supply and launch of new necessary military options for Ukraine."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Chancellor Olaf Scholz said on Sunday (January 29) that Germany will not send fighter jets to Ukraine. His remarks come after Berlin agreed to supply 14 powerful Leopard tanks to Kyiv amid intense pressure from other European counties. Ukraine has asked the West to supply powerful weapons for its fight against the Russian invasion. The West initially hesitated to engage in direct conflict with Russia, but later agreed and sent tanks. Besides Germany, the United States also announced that it would send 31 of its Abrams tanks. Canada said that it will also supply heavy tanks to Ukraine. ALSO READ | Ukrainian forces ‘repel attacks’ near Blahodatne, Russia’s Wagner claims control In an interview with the Tagesspiegel newspaper, Scholz said: "I can only advise against entering into a constant bidding war when it comes to weapons systems." He added, "If, as soon as a decision (on tanks) has been made, the next debate starts in Germany, that doesn't come across as serious and undermines citizens' confidence in government decisions." After receiving tanks, Ukraine demanded fighter jets and long-range missiles. Moscow has already said multiple times that it will be considered an escalation if the West agrees to supply long-range missiles, that can penetrate deep inside Russian regions. ALSO READ | Donald Trump says Joe Biden 'brought us to the brink of World War III' Scholz in the interview warned against raising "the risk of escalation". He said, "There is no war between NATO and Russia. We will not allow such an escalation." "I will talk to Putin by phone again," Scholz said, noting that it was "necessary" to continue speaking with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The last phone call between the leaders was in early December. "But of course, it's also clear that as long as Russia continues to wage war with unabated aggression, the current situation will not change." Watch this report: × Zelensky says Ukraine needs faster supplies, new weapons Meanwhile, President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Ukraine needs faster weapons supplies and new types of weaponry in order to counter Russian attacks as the Ukrainian troops are facing a "very tough" situation in the eastern Donetsk region. In his nightly video address on Sunday (January 29), Zelensky said, "Bakhmut, Vuhledar and other sectors in Donetsk region -- there are constant Russian attacks." He added, "Russia hopes to drag out the war and exhaust our forces. So, we have to make time for our weapons. We have to accelerate developments. We have to speed up the supply and launch of new necessary military options for Ukraine." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Germany won't send fighter jets to Ukraine; Zelensky urges for faster supplies, new weapons

The latest round of Russian shelling has left four dead in Ukraine. As per Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Sunday three people were killed by the shelling in the southern city of Kherson, while the Kharkiv regional governor reported the death of one person due to another strike.

In his daily evening address, Zelensky said, "Today, the Russian army has been shelling Kherson atrociously all day."

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Russia steps up offensive In Kherson, Kyiv

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The shelling which struck a Kharkiv hospital as per him left "two women, nurses, were wounded in the hospital". As per the regional administration, the dead include two men and one woman.

He added that "as of now, there are reports of six wounded and three dead."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-forces-repelled-attacks-near-blahodatne-russias-wagner-claims-control-557054">Ukrainian forces ‘repel attacks’ near Blahodatne, Russia’s Wagner claims control</a>

Kharkiv regional administration as per Reuters in a post on the app Telegram wrote that the "enemy shelling" resulted in the damage&nbsp;of a number of civil infrastructure objects including "the Kherson Regional Clinical Hospital, a school, a bus station, a post office, a bank, and residential buildings."

In Eastern Kharkiv, the strikes hit "a four-storey residential building". As per Oleh Synehubov, governor of Ukraine's second-largest city's regional military administration, "three victims received minor injuries. Unfortunately, an elderly woman died ... The building was partially destroyed."

Yet another strike in the Zaporizhzhia region of southern Ukraine, where, as per AFP fighting has intensified recently, Moscow-appointed officials said that Kyiv's attacks have struck a railway bridge, "killing people".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kyiv-in-talks-with-western-allies-for-long-range-missiles-fighter-jets-ukrainian-official-556970">Kyiv in talks with Western allies for long-range missiles, fighter jets: Ukrainian official</a>

As&nbsp;per Yevgeny Balitsky, the Russian-installed head of the region, an attack from a Ukrainian HIMARS multiple rocket launcher was aimed at a railway bridge across the Molochnaya river.

The bridge is just north of Russia controlled city of Melitopol and was undergoing repairs. Balitsky said, "four people from the railways brigade were killed, five were injured."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The latest round of Russian shelling has left four dead in Ukraine. As per Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Sunday three people were killed by the shelling in the southern city of Kherson, while the Kharkiv regional governor reported the death of one person due to another strike.

The latest round of Russian shelling has left four dead in Ukraine. As per Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Sunday three people were killed by the shelling in the southern city of Kherson, while the Kharkiv regional governor reported the death of one person due to another strike. In his daily evening address, Zelensky said, "Today, the Russian army has been shelling Kherson atrociously all day." Watch | Gravitas: Russia steps up offensive In Kherson, Kyiv The shelling which struck a Kharkiv hospital as per him left "two women, nurses, were wounded in the hospital". As per the regional administration, the dead include two men and one woman. He added that "as of now, there are reports of six wounded and three dead." Also read | Ukrainian forces ‘repel attacks’ near Blahodatne, Russia’s Wagner claims control Kharkiv regional administration as per Reuters in a post on the app Telegram wrote that the "enemy shelling" resulted in the damage of a number of civil infrastructure objects including "the Kherson Regional Clinical Hospital, a school, a bus station, a post office, a bank, and residential buildings." In Eastern Kharkiv, the strikes hit "a four-storey residential building". As per Oleh Synehubov, governor of Ukraine's second-largest city's regional military administration, "three victims received minor injuries. Unfortunately, an elderly woman died ... The building was partially destroyed." Yet another strike in the Zaporizhzhia region of southern Ukraine, where, as per AFP fighting has intensified recently, Moscow-appointed officials said that Kyiv's attacks have struck a railway bridge, "killing people". Also read | Kyiv in talks with Western allies for long-range missiles, fighter jets: Ukrainian official As per Yevgeny Balitsky, the Russian-installed head of the region, an attack from a Ukrainian HIMARS multiple rocket launcher was aimed at a railway bridge across the Molochnaya river. The bridge is just north of Russia controlled city of Melitopol and was undergoing repairs. Balitsky said, "four people from the railways brigade were killed, five were injured." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia's latest 'atrocious' attacks on Kherson, Kharkiv kills four, including two nurses

Germany’s foreign minister on Sunday said that her government would not stand in the way of Poland sending its Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. For Ukrainian officials who have been calling on its western allies to supply them with&nbsp;german-made tanks for months, this could be the big breakthrough Kyiv has been waiting for. Berlin has till now stood in the way of sending the tanks itself or allowing other NATO nations to do so.

Replying to a question about Germany’s reaction to Poland possibly sending the Leopard 2 tanks without Germany’s permission, Annalena Baerbock, the German foreign minister said, "for the moment the question has not been asked, but if we were asked we would not stand in the way." Baerbock was in a conversation with France’s LCI TV.

Watch |&nbsp;World at War: Will United States &amp; Germany send their M1 Abram &amp; Leopard tanks?

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Berlin has been facing heavy pressure to let the tanks go to Ukraine. However, the country’s social democratic party is sceptical regarding military involvement. As per Reuters, the nation is also wary of sudden moves that could trigger a further escalation of Moscow’s aggression.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attitude-unacceptable-poland-hits-out-at-germanys-decision-not-to-supply-leopard-tanks-to-ukraine-554882">'Attitude unacceptable': Poland hits out at Germany's decision not to supply Leopard tanks to Ukraine</a>

On Sunday, German defence minister Boris Pistorius said that he expects a decision soon. Talking to ARD Tv he said that his nation has other factors like the safety of their citizens to consider and that they would not make a hasty decision.

Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of the embattled nation of Ukraine, has for long been pleading for the heavily armoured tanks which he says would give Kyiv ground troops more mobility and protection against the expected heightened Russian offensive.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-allies-offer-more-weapons-to-kyiv-but-no-decision-on-tanks-yet-554651">Ukraine war: Allies offer more weapons to Kyiv, but Germany's reluctance stalls decision on tanks</a>

In a Sunday meeting with former UK PM Boris Johnson, he reiterated his pleas and said, "We need more weapons: tanks, aircraft, long-range missiles."

Russia on the other hand on Friday remarked that the supply of the tanks would not change the course of the conflict and would only add on to the problems of the Ukrainians.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Germany’s foreign minister on Sunday said that her government would not stand in the way of Poland sending its Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. For Ukrainian officials who have been calling on its western allies to supply them with german-made tanks for months, this could be the big breakthrough Kyiv has been waiting for.

Germany’s foreign minister on Sunday said that her government would not stand in the way of Poland sending its Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. For Ukrainian officials who have been calling on its western allies to supply them with german-made tanks for months, this could be the big breakthrough Kyiv has been waiting for. Berlin has till now stood in the way of sending the tanks itself or allowing other NATO nations to do so. Replying to a question about Germany’s reaction to Poland possibly sending the Leopard 2 tanks without Germany’s permission, Annalena Baerbock, the German foreign minister said, "for the moment the question has not been asked, but if we were asked we would not stand in the way." Baerbock was in a conversation with France’s LCI TV. Watch | World at War: Will United States & Germany send their M1 Abram & Leopard tanks? Berlin has been facing heavy pressure to let the tanks go to Ukraine. However, the country’s social democratic party is sceptical regarding military involvement. As per Reuters, the nation is also wary of sudden moves that could trigger a further escalation of Moscow’s aggression. Also read | 'Attitude unacceptable': Poland hits out at Germany's decision not to supply Leopard tanks to Ukraine On Sunday, German defence minister Boris Pistorius said that he expects a decision soon. Talking to ARD Tv he said that his nation has other factors like the safety of their citizens to consider and that they would not make a hasty decision. Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of the embattled nation of Ukraine, has for long been pleading for the heavily armoured tanks which he says would give Kyiv ground troops more mobility and protection against the expected heightened Russian offensive. Also read | Ukraine war: Allies offer more weapons to Kyiv, but Germany's reluctance stalls decision on tanks In a Sunday meeting with former UK PM Boris Johnson, he reiterated his pleas and said, "We need more weapons: tanks, aircraft, long-range missiles." Russia on the other hand on Friday remarked that the supply of the tanks would not change the course of the conflict and would only add on to the problems of the Ukrainians. (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.

Germany 'won't stand in the way' of Poland's decision to supply Leopard tanks to Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky attended the funeral of helicopter crash victims on Saturday. The memorial service commemorated seven senior officials killed in a helicopter crash.&nbsp;The war-torn nation had sustained a fresh blow on Wednesday when the former interior minister Denys Monastyrskyi, his deputy and five other high-ranking officials were killed in a helicopter crash.&nbsp;

The accident had happened when their French-made Super Puma helicopter had crashed into a nursery on the eastern outskirts of Kyiv.&nbsp;

The incident is being investigated as another seven people were killed, including one child, in the crash. Officials are still investigating the cause of the crash.&nbsp;

In his Telegram post, Zelensky wrote: "The indescribable sadness is covering the soul."&nbsp;

In&nbsp;his video address on Saturday, Zelensky talked only about the death of Monastyrskyi. He said, "My condolences to all relatives and friends. It hurts to think about it, it hurts to talk about it."&nbsp;

He added, "We are losing people every day, whom we will always remember and regret we can't bring back." The Ukrainian president further talked about "how many bright people are taken by wartime".&nbsp;

Kyrylo Budanov, who is the military intelligence chief, said that the death of Monastyrskyi is "a huge loss". "If not for (Monastyrskyi), everything could have been completely different," he told Ukrainian media.&nbsp;

Budanov referred to the resistance Ukraine mounted after Russia's invasion last year on February 24 and he called Monastyrskyi a "true hero of this country".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky attended the funeral of helicopter crash victims on Saturday. The memorial service commemorated seven senior officials killed in a helicopter crash.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky attended the funeral of helicopter crash victims on Saturday. The memorial service commemorated seven senior officials killed in a helicopter crash. The war-torn nation had sustained a fresh blow on Wednesday when the former interior minister Denys Monastyrskyi, his deputy and five other high-ranking officials were killed in a helicopter crash. The accident had happened when their French-made Super Puma helicopter had crashed into a nursery on the eastern outskirts of Kyiv. The incident is being investigated as another seven people were killed, including one child, in the crash. Officials are still investigating the cause of the crash. In his Telegram post, Zelensky wrote: "The indescribable sadness is covering the soul." In his video address on Saturday, Zelensky talked only about the death of Monastyrskyi. He said, "My condolences to all relatives and friends. It hurts to think about it, it hurts to talk about it." He added, "We are losing people every day, whom we will always remember and regret we can't bring back." The Ukrainian president further talked about "how many bright people are taken by wartime". Kyrylo Budanov, who is the military intelligence chief, said that the death of Monastyrskyi is "a huge loss". "If not for (Monastyrskyi), everything could have been completely different," he told Ukrainian media. Budanov referred to the resistance Ukraine mounted after Russia's invasion last year on February 24 and he called Monastyrskyi a "true hero of this country". (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 honours top Ukrainian minister, top officials killed in helicopter crash

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked the United States on Friday (January 20) for a new security assistance package to the war-torn nation. While Western allies are mulling over further military aid, especially tanks, to Kyiv to help in its fight against Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked the United States on Friday (January 20) for a new security assistance package to the war-torn nation. While Western allies are mulling over further military aid, especially tanks, to Kyiv to help in its fight against Russia. Zelensky expressed gratitude to US President Joe Biden for providing Ukraine with another powerful defence support package worth $2.5 billion. Zelensky hailed the latest package that included Stryker armoured personnel carriers, Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicles and Avenger air defence systems. He said that it will be an "important help in our fight against the aggressor". The Ukrainian prime minister also mentioned that the West has the power to provide the war-ravaged nation with tanks, F-16 jets and long-range missiles. Discussion over Leopard 2 tanks Zelensky asked the Western allies to "speed up" arms deliveries while speaking during defence ministers' talks at Ramstein Air Base in Germany. The main focus of the gathering at Ramstein Air Base remained whether Germany will allow the supply of its Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. Zelensky said allies needed "not to bargain about different numbers of tanks but to open that principal supply that will stop evil". Kremlin issues warning Meanwhile, the Kremlin warned that the Western tanks will make little difference on the ground. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that “one should not exaggerate the importance of such supplies in terms of the ability to change something”. “This will add problems for Ukraine, but this will change nothing in terms of the Russian side advancing on the path to achieving its goals,” it added. US says ‘dig even deeper’ to support Ukraine At the donor meeting, US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin said that the Western allies need to “dig even deeper” to support Ukraine with military aid at a crucial time in its battle against Russia. Austin said: "We need to dig even deeper. This is a decisive moment for Ukraine. The Ukrainian people are watching us, the Kremlin is watching us, and history is watching us." (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 asks allies to ‘dig deeper’ to support Ukraine; Kremlin says tanks will change ‘nothing’ on battlefield

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