Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called Russian missile strikes in Ukraine a "typical terrorist tactic" in a bid to incite more fear. Zelensky also stated that Ukraine "cannot be intimidated" and they have been more united.

Zelensky calls Russia's strikes on Ukrainian cities a 'typical terrorist tactic'

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday claimed that Russia was dragging Belarus into the war, and urged the western allies to extend military aid and help Kyiv to defend itself.

Addressing the G7 leaders virtually after two days of widespread aerial strikes by Russia across Ukraine cities, Zelensky called for international observers to be placed on the Ukraine-Belarus border "to monitor the security situation".

"Russia is trying to directly draw Belarus into this war, playing a provocation that we are allegedly preparing an attack on this country," Zelensky said.

He further said that Putin is looking for "room for escalation" and added that he is his the final days of his reign.

“The Russian leader, who is now in the final stage of his reign, still has room for further escalation. This is "a threat to all of us,” he said.

Urging the West allies to help fund Ukraine’s air defence system, Zelensky said, “I am asking you to strengthen the overall effort to help financially with the creation of an air shield for Ukraine. Millions of people will be grateful to the Group of Seven for such assistance.”

The G7 leaders from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK and US condemned Russia “in the strongest possible terms” for the recent airstrikes in Ukraine that killed several civilians.

Following their meeting with the Ukrainian leader, the G7 issued a joint statement deploring attacks saying that the “indiscriminate attacks on innocent civilian populations constitute a war crime”.

“No country wants peace more than Ukraine, whose people have suffered death, displacement and countless atrocities as the result of Russian aggression.”

“We will continue to provide financial, humanitarian, military, diplomatic and legal support and will stand firmly with Ukraine for as long as it takes,” it added.

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Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday claimed that Russia was dragging Belarus into the war, and urged the western allies to extend military aid and help Kyiv to defend itself.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday claimed that Russia was dragging Belarus into the war, and urged the western allies to extend military aid and help Kyiv to defend itself. Addressing the G7 leaders virtually after two days of widespread aerial strikes by Russia across Ukraine cities, Zelensky called for international observers to be placed on the Ukraine-Belarus border "to monitor the security situation". "Russia is trying to directly draw Belarus into this war, playing a provocation that we are allegedly preparing an attack on this country," Zelensky said. He further said that Putin is looking for "room for escalation" and added that he is his the final days of his reign. “The Russian leader, who is now in the final stage of his reign, still has room for further escalation. This is "a threat to all of us,” he said. Urging the West allies to help fund Ukraine’s air defence system, Zelensky said, “I am asking you to strengthen the overall effort to help financially with the creation of an air shield for Ukraine. Millions of people will be grateful to the Group of Seven for such assistance.” The G7 leaders from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK and US condemned Russia “in the strongest possible terms” for the recent airstrikes in Ukraine that killed several civilians. Following their meeting with the Ukrainian leader, the G7 issued a joint statement deploring attacks saying that the “indiscriminate attacks on innocent civilian populations constitute a war crime”. “No country wants peace more than Ukraine, whose people have suffered death, displacement and countless atrocities as the result of Russian aggression.” “We will continue to provide financial, humanitarian, military, diplomatic and legal support and will stand firmly with Ukraine for as long as it takes,” it added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ukraine’s Zelensky says Russia ‘trying to draw Belarus into this 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.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Monday that Russia wants to "wipe" Ukraine from the face of Earth after multiple missile attacks rocked Ukrainian cities, including multiple missile strikes on Kyiv, the first bombardment on the capital in months. Zelensky claimed that the Russian forces used Iranian drones in attacks and added that people had been killed and injured. The Ukrainian president said, "Air raid sirens are not subsiding around Ukraine... Unfortunately, there are dead and wounded. Please do not leave the shelters." He accused Russia of wanting to "wipe us from the face of the Earth". Russia-Ukraine conflict live updates | At least five killed, several injured in Russian strikes on Kyiv Ukraine's national police service said that the Russian strikes killed at least five people and injured another dozen. In a statement on Facebook, the national police service said: "The enemy launched massive strikes on Kyiv. Most of the strikes hit the centre of the capital. At the moment, 12 people are reported injured. Five people died." Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Just minutes from my home. Just 20 minutes ago. What is #Russia trying to hit? The national university? The park? Or the playground? pic.twitter.com/311EHalGH6 — Lesia Vasylenko (@lesiavasylenko) October 10, 2022 × Video from near the attack site in Kyiv pic.twitter.com/5s5gatuWPX — Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) October 10, 2022 × Multiple Russian missile strikes across Ukraine. Putin’s only tactic is terror on peaceful Ukrainian cities, but he will not break Ukraine down. This is also his response to all appeasers who want to talk with him about peace: Putin is a terrorist who talks with missiles. — Dmytro Kuleba (@DmytroKuleba) October 10, 2022 × Russia is a terrorist state. And proud of it. pic.twitter.com/a3DWluKk40 — Andriy Yermak (@AndriyYermak) October 10, 2022 × Responding to the reports of missile attacks, the head of the Ukrainian military said that the Russian forces launched at least 75 missiles. General Valeriy Zaluzhny said on social media: "The terrorist country, Russia, has carried out massive missile and air strikes on the territory of Ukraine, also using attack drones. In the morning, the aggressor launched 75 missiles. 41 of them were shot down by our air defence." ALSO READ | Trump believes 'World War III' is a possibility, blames 'stupid people' for Russia-Ukraine conflict escalation UK calls it 'unacceptable' The United Kingdom Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said that the strikes on the Ukrainian cities are "unacceptable". Cleverly tweeted: "This is a demonstration of weakness by (Vladimir) Putin, not strength." He further added that he had contacted his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba. On his official Twitter handle, Kuleba called the Russian president a 'terrorist'. He wrote: "Putin’s only tactic is terror on peaceful Ukrainian cities, but he will not break Ukraine down. This is also his response to all appeasers who want to talk with him about peace: Putin is a terrorist who talks with missiles." 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.

Multiple blasts rock Ukrainian cities, Zelensky says Russia 'wants to wipe us from face of Earth'

After a part of&nbsp;the Crimean bridge collapsed after an explosion, Russian President Vladimir Putin ramped up the security arrangements and deployed additional forces there.

The 19-kilometre bridge—which was seen as a symbol of the Kremlin’s annexation of the Crimean Peninsula—was hit by a blast on October 8. The explosion claimed the lives of three people and set several oil tankers ablaze, according to Russian officials.

Following the heavy damage, Putin had tasked Federal Security Service (FSB) to oversee the key connector to the occupied peninsula, reports BBC.

So far, it is unknown who caused the blast, but Kyiv hinted at the role of the Ukrainian forces with two Twitter posts— “sick burn” and “hey Crimea, what’s new?”

President Volodymyr Zelensky also acknowledged the incident in his nightly address on Saturday.

"Today was not a bad day and mostly sunny on our state's territory…Unfortunately, it was cloudy in Crimea. Although it was also warm," he said.

Meanwhile, Russia swiftly reopened those parts of the key connector that are still intact. On Saturday, the bridge was partially reopened to road and rail traffic.

Moscow-appointed governor of Crimea, Sergei Aksyonov, expressed the desire for revenge, but made reassurances that the peninsula still had a month's fuel and food for more than two months.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-invasion-of-ukraine-live-17-killed-40-hurt-in-ukraines-zaporizhzhia-city-shelling-523712" hreflang="en">Russia-Ukraine war LIVE | 17 killed, 40 hurt in Zaporizhzhia shelling</a>

"The situation is manageable — it's unpleasant, but not fatal," said Aksyonov, reports Reuters news agency.

"Of course, emotions have been triggered and there is a healthy desire to seek revenge."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mahsa-amini-death-protest-iranian-state-tv-hacked-during-live-broadcast-with-anti-regime-message-523676" hreflang="en">Mahsa Amini protests: Iranian state TV hacked during live broadcast, anti-regime messages flashed</a>

The bridge is a major artery for the Russian forces that control most of southern Ukraine's Kherson region and for the Russian naval port of Sevastopol.

(With inputs from agencies)

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After a part of the Crimean bridge collapsed after an explosion, Russian President Vladimir Putin ramped up the security arrangements and deployed additional forces there.

After a part of the Crimean bridge collapsed after an explosion, Russian President Vladimir Putin ramped up the security arrangements and deployed additional forces there. The 19-kilometre bridge—which was seen as a symbol of the Kremlin’s annexation of the Crimean Peninsula—was hit by a blast on October 8. The explosion claimed the lives of three people and set several oil tankers ablaze, according to Russian officials. Following the heavy damage, Putin had tasked Federal Security Service (FSB) to oversee the key connector to the occupied peninsula, reports BBC. So far, it is unknown who caused the blast, but Kyiv hinted at the role of the Ukrainian forces with two Twitter posts— “sick burn” and “hey Crimea, what’s new?” President Volodymyr Zelensky also acknowledged the incident in his nightly address on Saturday. "Today was not a bad day and mostly sunny on our state's territory…Unfortunately, it was cloudy in Crimea. Although it was also warm," he said. Meanwhile, Russia swiftly reopened those parts of the key connector that are still intact. On Saturday, the bridge was partially reopened to road and rail traffic. Moscow-appointed governor of Crimea, Sergei Aksyonov, expressed the desire for revenge, but made reassurances that the peninsula still had a month's fuel and food for more than two months. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war LIVE | 17 killed, 40 hurt in Zaporizhzhia shelling "The situation is manageable — it's unpleasant, but not fatal," said Aksyonov, reports Reuters news agency. "Of course, emotions have been triggered and there is a healthy desire to seek revenge." Also read | Mahsa Amini protests: Iranian state TV hacked during live broadcast, anti-regime messages flashed The bridge is a major artery for the Russian forces that control most of southern Ukraine's Kherson region and for the Russian naval port of Sevastopol. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russian President Putin ramps up security of Kerch bridge connecting Crimea after blast

Ukrainian forces have captured more villages in Kherson, just days after Vladimir Putin claimed the region as part of Russia. Kherson was one of four regions annexed by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Ukraine recaptures Russia-occupied areas in Kherson days after Moscow announced annexation

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Friday that the resistance forces have recaptured almost 2500 square kilometres of land over the last month.

"This week alone, our soldiers liberated 776 square kilometres of territory in the east of our country and 29 settlements, including six in Lugansk region," Zelensky said during his daily speech.']

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-clarifies-bidens-armageddon-remark-says-no-indications-russia-preparing-to-use-nukes-523424">White House says no indications that Russia preparing to use nukes</a>

"In total, 2,434 square kilometres of our land and 96 settlements have already been liberated since the beginning of this offensive operation," he added according to AFP.

In the recent past, Russia has officially annexed the regions of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia after referendums which were considered to be “sham” by western countries.

As a result, the gains by the Ukrainian military in Kherson is a huge statement from Ukraine who completely rejected the annexation. Zelensky also said on Friday that the Ukrainian military is making steady growth in Donetsk after the military claimed victory in several major clashes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-court-orders-seizure-of-rights-group-memorials-headquarters-in-moscow-523439" hreflang="en">Russian court orders seizure of rights group Memorial's headquarters in Moscow</a>

Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund has approved $1.3 billion in emergency aid to Ukraine through its new food crisis assistance program, the organisation said on Friday.

“The package will help meet Ukraine's urgent balance of payment needs... while playing a catalytic role for future financial support from Ukraine's creditors and donors," the IMF said in a statement.

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Friday that the resistance forces have recaptured almost 2500 square kilometres of land over the last month. "This week alone, our soldiers liberated 776 square kilometres of territory in the east of our country and 29 settlements, including six in Lugansk region," Zelensky said during his daily speech.'] Also read | White House says no indications that Russia preparing to use nukes "In total, 2,434 square kilometres of our land and 96 settlements have already been liberated since the beginning of this offensive operation," he added according to AFP. In the recent past, Russia has officially annexed the regions of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia after referendums which were considered to be “sham” by western countries. As a result, the gains by the Ukrainian military in Kherson is a huge statement from Ukraine who completely rejected the annexation. Zelensky also said on Friday that the Ukrainian military is making steady growth in Donetsk after the military claimed victory in several major clashes. Also read | Russian court orders seizure of rights group Memorial's headquarters in Moscow Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund has approved $1.3 billion in emergency aid to Ukraine through its new food crisis assistance program, the organisation said on Friday. “The package will help meet Ukraine's urgent balance of payment needs... while playing a catalytic role for future financial support from Ukraine's creditors and donors," the IMF said in a statement.

Ukraine has recaptured around 2500 km of land from Russian control, says Volodymyr Zelensky

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday (October 2) that the success of the country's soldiers is not limited to the recapture of Lyman as he said that some towns in the Kherson region have also been liberated. "The story of the liberation of Lyman in the Donetsk region has now become the most popular in the media. But the successes of our soldiers are not limited to Lyman," said Zelensky during his nightly address as reported by news agency Reuters. Although, the Ukrainian president didn't provide any details. ALSO READ | Restoration of ruptured Nord Stream pipelines possible, says Russia deputy PM According to Zelensky, the Ukrainian military has liberated the small settlements of Arkhanhelske and Myrolyubivka in the Kherson area. He thanked the army units for their "success" and also for distinguishing themselves on the frontline. "[I am grateful] to the soldiers of the 129th brigade of my native Kryvyi Rih, who distinguished themselves with good results and liberated, in particular, Arkhanhelske and Myrolyubivka," Zelensky said. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. 🗺️🇺🇦 Soldiers of Ukrainian 129th Territorial Defense Brigade, in cooperation with other units, liberated Arkhanhelske in #Kherson Oblast, says Zelensky during his evening address.#UkraineRussiaWar pic.twitter.com/yVADTMbVMK — MilitaryLand.net (@Militarylandnet) October 2, 2022 × Zelenskiy has confirmed that #Arkhanhelske and #Myroliubivka have been liberated :DD #Ukraine #UkraineRussiaWar #Kherson pic.twitter.com/y7spCGF97P — schizo (@creepergobarman) October 2, 2022 × Abduction of Ukrainian nuclear plant head He further said that the kidnapping of the director general of the Russian-occupied nuclear power facility in the Zaporizhzhia region was an act of Russian terrorism. As per reports, Ihor Murashov was taken into custody by a Russian patrol on Friday (September 30). The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) claimed Russia had confirmed the action. ALSO READ | Iran: At least 92 people reportedly killed during protests over Amini's death The head of the UN nuclear watchdog also called for the release of Murashov, and stated that his detention posed a threat to safety and security. the agency tweeted late on Saturday: "IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi expressed the hope that Mr Murashov will return to his family safely and promptly and will be able to resume his important functions at the plant." 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 says Ukrainian soldiers' success 'not limited to Lyman', claims forces liberated Kherson towns

President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (October 1) promised that his Ukrainian military will retake more areas from Russian forces in the country's eastern Donbas region.&nbsp;

In his evening address, Zelensky said: "Throughout this week, more Ukrainian flags have been raised in the Donbas. There will be even more in a week."&nbsp;

Zelensky's remarks came after Kyiv declared that its troops had started advancing into the vital eastern town of Lyman and the defence ministry tweeted a video of soldiers there hoisting the yellow and blue flag of Ukraine. He also added that although the Ukrainian flag was flying in the city, "fighting is still going on there".&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chechen-leader-kadyrov-russia-should-use-low-yield-nuclear-weapon-after-new-defeat-in-ukraine-521614">Chechen leader Kadyrov: Russia should use low-yield nuclear weapon after new defeat in Ukraine</a>

WATCH |&nbsp;World at War: Russia annexes parts of Ukraine, even as it loses on the battlefield&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, Russia on Saturday said that its troops had abandoned the key bastion of Lyman. But the Russian defence ministry said it had "withdrawn" troops from the town "to more favourable lines".&nbsp;

"In connection with the creation of a threat of encirclement, allied troops were withdrawn from the settlement of Krasny Liman to more advantageous lines," Russia's defence ministry said, using the Russian name of the town.&nbsp;

During his address, Zelensky told Russians they would be "killed one by one" as long as President Vladimir Putin, who ordered the invasion of Ukraine in February, remained in power.&nbsp;

"Until you all solve the problem with the one who started it all, who started this senseless war against Ukraine, you will be killed one by one," he said, calling the war "a historic mistake for Russia".&nbsp;

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President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (October 1) promised that his Ukrainian military will retake more areas from Russian forces in the country's eastern Donbas region.

President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (October 1) promised that his Ukrainian military will retake more areas from Russian forces in the country's eastern Donbas region. In his evening address, Zelensky said: "Throughout this week, more Ukrainian flags have been raised in the Donbas. There will be even more in a week." Zelensky's remarks came after Kyiv declared that its troops had started advancing into the vital eastern town of Lyman and the defence ministry tweeted a video of soldiers there hoisting the yellow and blue flag of Ukraine. He also added that although the Ukrainian flag was flying in the city, "fighting is still going on there". ALSO READ | Chechen leader Kadyrov: Russia should use low-yield nuclear weapon after new defeat in Ukraine WATCH | World at War: Russia annexes parts of Ukraine, even as it loses on the battlefield × Meanwhile, Russia on Saturday said that its troops had abandoned the key bastion of Lyman. But the Russian defence ministry said it had "withdrawn" troops from the town "to more favourable lines". "In connection with the creation of a threat of encirclement, allied troops were withdrawn from the settlement of Krasny Liman to more advantageous lines," Russia's defence ministry said, using the Russian name of the town. During his address, Zelensky told Russians they would be "killed one by one" as long as President Vladimir Putin, who ordered the invasion of Ukraine in February, remained in power. "Until you all solve the problem with the one who started it all, who started this senseless war against Ukraine, you will be killed one by one," he said, calling the war "a historic mistake for Russia". 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.

President Volodymyr Zelensky promises to retake more of eastern Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the 77th session of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) while urging the world leaders to 'unite' against Russia's war in Ukraine and strip Moscow of its veto power.

Zelensky calls for Russia to be stripped of UN veto power while addressing UNGA

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (September 21) said that he does not believe his Russian counterpart will use nuclear weapons amid the ongoing conflict. Zelensky's remarks came hours after President Vladimir Putin ordered Russia's first mobilisation since World War II. Putin has ordered the immediate call-up of 300,000 reservists. The move is termed by the West as an escalation of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. While speaking to the TV station of Germany's Bild newspaper, Zelensky referred to nuclear arms and the related threats. He said, "I don't believe that he will use these weapons. I don't believe that the world will allow him to use these weapons." ALSO READ | After Putin orders to call-up reservists, flights out of Russia sell out Warning against giving in to the Russian president's threats, Zelensky said, "Tomorrow, Putin can say - as well as Ukraine, we want part of Poland, otherwise we will use atomic weapons. We cannot make these compromises." The Ukrainian president added that Putin's decision to order a partial mobilisation was because of the low morale among his forces. He said, "He needs an army of millions... he sees that a large part of those (troops) who come to us, just run away." Zelensky added that Putin "wants to drown Ukraine in blood, also the blood of his own soldiers'" He referred to the annexation referendums that will be held in Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine as "sham referendums". He said that 90 per cent of states would not recognise them. WATCH | Ukraine war raged by just one man: Joe Biden addresses 77th session of UNGA × ALSO READ | Partial military mobilisation in Russia has markets on alert Zelensky also put pressure on German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government and stressed that Ukraine wants Germany to send battle tanks to aid the nation's fight against Russia. Notably, Berlin has sent some armaments to Ukraine, but they have so far refused to transfer the tanks that Kyiv is urgently appealing for. Zelensky said, "Give us these weapons. Battle tanks mean that more people's lives can be saved." 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: Zelensky does not believe Putin will use nuclear arms

Ukraine retook Izyum and other eastern towns, this month, severely disrupting the Kremlin's supply lines and sparking new allegations of Russian atrocities. The discovery of hundreds of graves, some of which contained several victims was one thing which made the news.

However, Kyiv's recapture of the city of Izyum has also brought to light an account by Sri Lanka nationals who claim to have been held captive for months by the Russian forces.

BBC reports that Dilujan Paththinajakan along with six other Sri Lankans was captured in May. They had come to Ukraine to find work and/or study&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Ukrainian troops heads to Donbas region

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The party had just started a long journey from their homes in Kupiansk, northeastern Ukraine, to the more secure city of Kharkiv, which was some 120 kilometres (75 miles) away.

However, they were apprehended by Russian troops at the first checkpoint. The Sri Lankans were led to a machine tool plant in the town of Vovchansk, close to the Russian border, with their hands bound and their eyes covered.

For four months they were kept as prisoners, used as forced labour.&nbsp;

Their ordeal as described by them is enough to give anyone nightmares. Reader discretion is advised for the following content.&nbsp;

They were allowed to use the toilet just once a day and the time for that was limited to two minutes. If and when they were allowed to shower, they again were given just two minutes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-slams-reports-of-mass-graves-in-izyum-accuses-ukraine-of-fabricating-its-discoveries-517911" hreflang="en">Russia slams reports of mass graves in Izyum, accuses Ukraine of fabricating its discoveries</a>

The group mainly was composed of men in their 20s who were all stuffed into one room. The one woman in the group, 50-year-old Mary Edit Uthajkumar, was kept separately.

Mary, who is a heart patient was refused medicine for her condition. She said they were locked in a room and even beaten up.

"They used to beat us when we went to take a shower. They didn't even allow me to meet the others. We were stuck inside for three months."

Among the men, two had their toenails torn off with pliers. All of them reported being beaten up by drunk Russian soldiers, at times guns were used to inflict the beating.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-forces-recapture-village-in-luhansk-region-as-russia-loses-control-517905" hreflang="en">Ukrainian forces recapture village in Luhansk region as Russia loses control</a>

"They hit me across the body many times with their guns," one man, 35-year-old Thinesh Gogenthiran. "One of them punched me in the stomach and I was in pain for two days. He then asked me for money."

When the Ukrainian forces started retaking territory in eastern Ukraine earlier this month, including Vovchansk, the seven Sri Lankans were ultimately freed.

Once again, they began their walk towards Kharkiv. They had no way to get in touch with their relatives as they&nbsp;had no phones.&nbsp;But eventually, their fortune changed when a passing motorist noticed them and dialled the cops. They were given a police officer's phone.&nbsp;They have now been brought to Kharkiv, where they are receiving medical care.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine retook Izyum and other eastern towns, this month, severely disrupting the Kremlin's supply lines and sparking new allegations of Russian atrocities. The discovery of hundreds of graves, some of which contained several victims was one thing which made the news.

Ukraine retook Izyum and other eastern towns, this month, severely disrupting the Kremlin's supply lines and sparking new allegations of Russian atrocities. The discovery of hundreds of graves, some of which contained several victims was one thing which made the news. However, Kyiv's recapture of the city of Izyum has also brought to light an account by Sri Lanka nationals who claim to have been held captive for months by the Russian forces. BBC reports that Dilujan Paththinajakan along with six other Sri Lankans was captured in May. They had come to Ukraine to find work and/or study Watch | Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Ukrainian troops heads to Donbas region The party had just started a long journey from their homes in Kupiansk, northeastern Ukraine, to the more secure city of Kharkiv, which was some 120 kilometres (75 miles) away. However, they were apprehended by Russian troops at the first checkpoint. The Sri Lankans were led to a machine tool plant in the town of Vovchansk, close to the Russian border, with their hands bound and their eyes covered. For four months they were kept as prisoners, used as forced labour. Their ordeal as described by them is enough to give anyone nightmares. Reader discretion is advised for the following content. They were allowed to use the toilet just once a day and the time for that was limited to two minutes. If and when they were allowed to shower, they again were given just two minutes. Also read | Russia slams reports of mass graves in Izyum, accuses Ukraine of fabricating its discoveries The group mainly was composed of men in their 20s who were all stuffed into one room. The one woman in the group, 50-year-old Mary Edit Uthajkumar, was kept separately. Mary, who is a heart patient was refused medicine for her condition. She said they were locked in a room and even beaten up. "They used to beat us when we went to take a shower. They didn't even allow me to meet the others. We were stuck inside for three months." Among the men, two had their toenails torn off with pliers. All of them reported being beaten up by drunk Russian soldiers, at times guns were used to inflict the beating. Also read | Ukrainian forces recapture village in Luhansk region as Russia loses control "They hit me across the body many times with their guns," one man, 35-year-old Thinesh Gogenthiran. "One of them punched me in the stomach and I was in pain for two days. He then asked me for money." When the Ukrainian forces started retaking territory in eastern Ukraine earlier this month, including Vovchansk, the seven Sri Lankans were ultimately freed. Once again, they began their walk towards Kharkiv. They had no way to get in touch with their relatives as they had no phones. But eventually, their fortune changed when a passing motorist noticed them and dialled the cops. They were given a police officer's phone. They have now been brought to Kharkiv, where they are receiving medical care. (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.

After 4 months of brutal torture, 7 Sri Lankans freed with Ukraine's recapture of Izyum. This is their story

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned both Russian troops and their Ukrainian collaborators that they "only have" the choice of leaving Ukraine or surrendering, alluding to the counteroffensive carried out in the northeast of the country.

Ukrainian President Zelensky tells Russian troops to flee or surrender

Vowing that there will be no letup in Ukraine's counteroffensive against Russia, President Volodymyr Zelensky said Kyiv's troops are reclaiming towns and cities from Moscow.

During his nightly address, he said “Maybe now it seems to some of you that after a series of victories we have a certain lull but its preparation for the next series... because Ukraine must be free — all of it.”

Warning that Moscow is likely to increase attacks on civilian targets, the British defence ministry said Russia will retaliate against battlefield defeats.

Repelling attacks by Russian troops in the areas of the Kharkiv region in the east and Kherson in the south, Ukraine’s military command said its forces secured the eastern bank of the Oskil River.

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While Russian artillery and air strikes kept pounding targets across Ukraine's east, Ukrainians who returned to the northeastern area retaken in Kyiv's lightning advance earlier this month were searching for their dead.

Brushing off Ukraine's swift counteroffensive, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow would respond more forcefully if its troops were put under further pressure.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/choice-of-a-real-man-russia-attracts-volunteer-soldiers-with-mobile-trucks-incentives-517471" hreflang="en">'Choice of a real man': Russia attracts volunteer soldiers with mobile trucks, incentives</a>

Blaming each other for shelling around Europe's largest nuclear power plant Zaporizhzhia, power lines needed to keep it cooled and safe have been disrupted.

After visiting a base in Poland aiding Ukraine's war effort, US Army General and chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley called for vigilance on Sunday.

As opposed to reinforcing the front line, Russian forces in Donetsk continue to conduct “meaningless operations” on villages, according to the Institute for the Study of War.

The residents of Izium have been searching for dead relatives at a forest gravesite following the discovery of a mass grave containing the bodies of 17 soldiers. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Vowing that there will be no letup in Ukraine's counteroffensive against Russia, President Volodymyr Zelensky said Kyiv's troops are reclaiming towns and cities from Moscow.

Vowing that there will be no letup in Ukraine's counteroffensive against Russia, President Volodymyr Zelensky said Kyiv's troops are reclaiming towns and cities from Moscow. During his nightly address, he said “Maybe now it seems to some of you that after a series of victories we have a certain lull but its preparation for the next series... because Ukraine must be free — all of it.” Warning that Moscow is likely to increase attacks on civilian targets, the British defence ministry said Russia will retaliate against battlefield defeats. Repelling attacks by Russian troops in the areas of the Kharkiv region in the east and Kherson in the south, Ukraine’s military command said its forces secured the eastern bank of the Oskil River. × While Russian artillery and air strikes kept pounding targets across Ukraine's east, Ukrainians who returned to the northeastern area retaken in Kyiv's lightning advance earlier this month were searching for their dead. Brushing off Ukraine's swift counteroffensive, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow would respond more forcefully if its troops were put under further pressure. Also read | 'Choice of a real man': Russia attracts volunteer soldiers with mobile trucks, incentives Blaming each other for shelling around Europe's largest nuclear power plant Zaporizhzhia, power lines needed to keep it cooled and safe have been disrupted. After visiting a base in Poland aiding Ukraine's war effort, US Army General and chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley called for vigilance on Sunday. As opposed to reinforcing the front line, Russian forces in Donetsk continue to conduct “meaningless operations” on villages, according to the Institute for the Study of War. The residents of Izium have been searching for dead relatives at a forest gravesite following the discovery of a mass grave containing the bodies of 17 soldiers. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

No let-up in taking back Ukrainian towns from Russian forces: Volodymyr Zelensky

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has blamed Russia and drew a comparison of the new mass graves found in Izium to what was discovered in Bucha.

Zelensky: After Bucha, new mass graves found in Ukraine's recaptured Izium

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited a newly captured city in the northeast province of Kharkiv. He also traveled to the recently recaptured city of Izium to attend a flag-raising ceremony.

Ukrainian President Zelensky visits Kharkiv amidst stunning counter-offensive

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky did not receive "serious injuries" after his car was involved in a traffic accident in Kyiv, his spokesman Serhii Nykyforov said in a Facebook post early on Thursday. Nykyforov said that Zelensky's car collided with a private vehicle, but he did not reveal when the accident actually happened. He mentioned that medics accompanying Zelensky attended to the driver of the private car. The driver was given emergency aid and the medics put him in an ambulance. ALSO READ | Ukraine President Zelensky promises 'victory' on visit to recaptured Kharkiv region In a statement posted on Facebook at 1:22 am (local time), Nykyforov said, "In Kyiv, a passenger car collided with the car of the President of Ukraine and escort vehicles. Medics accompanying the President provided the driver of the passenger car with emergency aid and transferred him to an ambulance." "The president was examined by a doctor, no serious injuries were detected. The law enforcement officers will investigate all the circumstances of the accident," he added. WATCH | Kremlin: SCO Summit will showcase an alternative to the western world × ALSO READ | Beirut: Woman armed with toy gun, demands trapped savings for ill sister Zelensky's surprise visit to Izium On Wednesday, Zelensky made a surprise visit to Izyum in the Kharkiv region. During his visit to the strategic city, the Ukrainian president promised 'victory' in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The visit came at a crucial moment of the war, as Ukraine is expelling Russian forces from swathes of the east and seriously challenging the Kremlin's ambition to capture the entire Donbas region. Zelensky said in a statement on social media: "Our blue-yellow flag is already flying in de-occupied Izyum. And it will be so in every Ukrainian city and village. We are moving in only one direction -- forward and towards victory." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky 'not seriously hurt' after car accident

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that their forces have successfully recaptured several settlements in the northeast Kharkiv region that was once under the control of the Russian forces.

Zelensky hails Ukrainian forces for recapturing places near Kharkiv

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that their forces have “successfully” recaptured several settlements in the northeast Kharkiv region that was once under the control of the Russian forces.

Kharkiv region has been partly under the occupation of Russian troops since the start of the invasion on February 24.

He, however, refused to name the places that had been retaken, saying that "now is not the time to name" them.

In his nightly video address, Zelensky announced the "good news" of the success of Ukrainian troops, saying, “I think every citizen feels proud of our soldiers."

While naming the specific military units, he applauded their bravery in combat against the Russians.

The announcement came hours after US officials affirmed that Ukraine was making "slow but meaningful progress" against Russian forces, reports BBC.

This comes a week after Ukraine recaptured several villages in the southern country by waging a counter-offensive with sustained attacks on command posts, ammunition stores, and fuel reserves far behind the front lines, CNN reports citing satellite imagery.

"What we've seen in the Kherson region first is some continued offensive operations by the Ukrainians," Pentagon press secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder told reporters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-threatens-no-gas-no-oil-in-case-prices-are-capped-513740">Putin threatens 'no gas, no oil' to countries introducing price caps</a>

"They continue to make some forward movement. We are aware that they have retaken some villages."

According to Ukrainian officials, their goal is to take at least all territory north or west of the Dnipro River, including Kherson and Nova Kakhovka—an important site which houses a hydroelectric plant and a canal that supplies Crimea with much of its water.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-havent-lost-anything-says-putin-on-the-ukraine-war-at-eastern-economic-forum-513672" hreflang="en">'We haven't lost anything', says Putin on the Ukraine war at Eastern Economic Forum</a>

CNN reported that Ukrainian forces are planning for a long and brutal campaign to retake Russian-controlled territory.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that their forces have “successfully” recaptured several settlements in the northeast Kharkiv region that was once under the control of the Russian forces.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that their forces have “successfully” recaptured several settlements in the northeast Kharkiv region that was once under the control of the Russian forces. Kharkiv region has been partly under the occupation of Russian troops since the start of the invasion on February 24. He, however, refused to name the places that had been retaken, saying that "now is not the time to name" them. In his nightly video address, Zelensky announced the "good news" of the success of Ukrainian troops, saying, “I think every citizen feels proud of our soldiers." While naming the specific military units, he applauded their bravery in combat against the Russians. The announcement came hours after US officials affirmed that Ukraine was making "slow but meaningful progress" against Russian forces, reports BBC. This comes a week after Ukraine recaptured several villages in the southern country by waging a counter-offensive with sustained attacks on command posts, ammunition stores, and fuel reserves far behind the front lines, CNN reports citing satellite imagery. "What we've seen in the Kherson region first is some continued offensive operations by the Ukrainians," Pentagon press secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder told reporters. Also read | Putin threatens 'no gas, no oil' to countries introducing price caps "They continue to make some forward movement. We are aware that they have retaken some villages." According to Ukrainian officials, their goal is to take at least all territory north or west of the Dnipro River, including Kherson and Nova Kakhovka—an important site which houses a hydroelectric plant and a canal that supplies Crimea with much of its water. Also read | 'We haven't lost anything', says Putin on the Ukraine war at Eastern Economic Forum CNN reported that Ukrainian forces are planning for a long and brutal campaign to retake Russian-controlled territory. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

President Zelensky hails Ukrainian forces for recapturing places near Russian-controlled Khariv

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (September 7) reported "good news" from the front near Kharkiv in the east, saying some settlements had been recaptured. Both sides have reported heavy fighting in the region. During the evening video address, Zelensky thanked Ukrainian artillery troops for "successful strikes" against the Russian forces in the south of Ukraine. Zelensky said, "This week we have good news from Kharkiv region" and "now is not the right time to name those settlements, where the Ukrainian flag has returned". According to the mayor of the city, Russian forces carried out two missile strikes in Kharkiv overnight. Ihor Terekhov posted on Telegram, saying that rockets hit the neighbourhoods of Saltovskoye and Kholodnogorsk at around midnight local time. As per the US-based think tank, The Institute for the Study of War, Ukraine has retaken 400 sq km of territory in the east of the Kharkiv region. After doing the latest assessment of the ground situation, the group said that, on September 7, the Ukrainian forces "likely used tactical surprise to advance at least 20km into Russian-held territory". The group also states that Ukraine was "likely exploiting Russian force reallocation" to the south to "conduct an opportunistic yet highly effective counteroffensive" to the northwest of the city of Izyum. The report further added that Russia had been forced to shift its focus on its forces in the south because of Ukraine's ongoing operations in the Kherson region. Of late, Ukraine has been waging a counter-offensive in the south of the country since last week, where it also claimed to recapture several villages. Kharkiv region has been partly occupied by Russian troops since the start of the invasion launched on February 24. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin said in a combative speech on Wednesday (September 7) to an economic forum that Russia would not lose what he calls its "special military operation" in Ukraine. Putin said all Russia's actions were designed to strengthen the country's sovereignty and were aimed at "helping people" living in the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine. Putin said, "We have not lost anything and will not lose anything. In terms of what we have gained, I can say that the main gain has been the strengthening of our sovereignty." Putin conceded, however, that Moscow's decision to send troops into Ukraine had created a "certain polarisation, both in the world and within the country." 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 says some settlements near Kharkiv region retaken from Russian forces

Faced with an energy crisis at the hands of Russia, Germany has taken a U-turn from its plans of a nuclear exit and announced on Monday that it would keep two of its nuclear plants on standby beyond the end of this year.

This comes a Russia has shut off gas supplies to Europe. After a three-day maintenance period last week, Russian energy giant Gazprom announced that gas deliveries via the Nord Stream 1 pipeline would not resume&nbsp;as scheduled. It blamed Western sanctions for the decision.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "problems with pumping (gas) arose due to sanctions that were imposed against" Russia.

Watch |&nbsp;Gazprom misses September 3 deadline to restart gas supplies

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Economy Minister Robert Habeck announced in a statement that&nbsp;following a fresh network stress test, two of the three remaining power plants will "remain available until mid-April 2023 in case needed."

The facilities as per AFP would be held in reserve in case they were needed to "make a further contribution to the electricity grid in southern Germany," where the development of renewable energy lagged behind that of the north.

According to Habeck, such a crisis is still "very unlikely" because Germany has "very high security of supply."

The Green Minister also emphasised that Germany was sticking to its plan to abandon nuclear power, with all plants being disconnected from the grid at the end of the year, and that it was not reversing course.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-putin-unveils-new-foreign-policy-doctrine-to-preserve-russian-world-513287" hreflang="en">President Putin unveils new foreign policy doctrine to preserve ‘Russian World’</a>

New fuel rods won't be installed, and the reserve programme will end after mid-April 2023, according to Habeck.

The decision partially postpones a nuclear phase-out that was envisioned under the previous chancellor Angela Merkel, who decided to abandon nuclear power in 2011 in the wake of the Fukushima nuclear accident in Japan.

Habeck remarked that it was "not a surprise" that Moscow did not resume gas deliveries via Nord Stream 1.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-finland-to-offer-liquidity-guarantees-to-energy-companies-513211">Sweden, Finland to offer liquidity guarantees to energy companies</a>

He said, "The only thing that is reliable from Russia is lies" adding that "we will have to solve our problems without consideration of (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's erratic decisions, and that's what we will do."&nbsp;

In Germany, where nuclear power has long been a topic of dispute even before Merkel's decision, extending the lifetime of the plants, which produce 6 per cent of the nation's electricity, has sparked a fierce debate.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Faced with an energy crisis at the hands of Russia, Germany has taken a U-turn from its plans of a nuclear exit and announced on Monday that it would keep two of its nuclear plants on standby beyond the end of this year.

Faced with an energy crisis at the hands of Russia, Germany has taken a U-turn from its plans of a nuclear exit and announced on Monday that it would keep two of its nuclear plants on standby beyond the end of this year. This comes a Russia has shut off gas supplies to Europe. After a three-day maintenance period last week, Russian energy giant Gazprom announced that gas deliveries via the Nord Stream 1 pipeline would not resume as scheduled. It blamed Western sanctions for the decision. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "problems with pumping (gas) arose due to sanctions that were imposed against" Russia. Watch | Gazprom misses September 3 deadline to restart gas supplies Economy Minister Robert Habeck announced in a statement that following a fresh network stress test, two of the three remaining power plants will "remain available until mid-April 2023 in case needed." The facilities as per AFP would be held in reserve in case they were needed to "make a further contribution to the electricity grid in southern Germany," where the development of renewable energy lagged behind that of the north. According to Habeck, such a crisis is still "very unlikely" because Germany has "very high security of supply." The Green Minister also emphasised that Germany was sticking to its plan to abandon nuclear power, with all plants being disconnected from the grid at the end of the year, and that it was not reversing course. Also read | President Putin unveils new foreign policy doctrine to preserve ‘Russian World’ New fuel rods won't be installed, and the reserve programme will end after mid-April 2023, according to Habeck. The decision partially postpones a nuclear phase-out that was envisioned under the previous chancellor Angela Merkel, who decided to abandon nuclear power in 2011 in the wake of the Fukushima nuclear accident in Japan. Habeck remarked that it was "not a surprise" that Moscow did not resume gas deliveries via Nord Stream 1. Also read | Sweden, Finland to offer liquidity guarantees to energy companies He said, "The only thing that is reliable from Russia is lies" adding that "we will have to solve our problems without consideration of (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's erratic decisions, and that's what we will do." In Germany, where nuclear power has long been a topic of dispute even before Merkel's decision, extending the lifetime of the plants, which produce 6 per cent of the nation's electricity, has sparked a fierce debate. (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.

'Only thing reliable from Russia is lies': Faced with energy crisis Germany takes a U-turn to nuclear energy

Music transcends war, six months into the Russian invasion Kyiv dances on

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. President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed on Sunday (September 4) that Ukraine marked progress in a counter-offensive that its forces started last week. In his nightly address, Zelensky thanked the Ukrainian military for taking two settlements in the south, and a third in the east. The forces also took an additional territory in the east of the country. Zelensky said that progress was being made to "liberate all our lands, all our people" after the beginning of the counteroffensive against the Russians in the southern regions. ALSO READ | US may use our military bases in case of a Taiwan conflict, says Philippine ambassador to the US "The Armed Forces of Ukraine, our intelligence, special services are already taking the necessary steps for this. These steps can be heard. And everyone can see that the occupiers have already started fleeing Crimea. This is the right choice for all of them," Zelensky said in a speech posted on the social media platform, Facebook. However, Zelensky didn't specify which territories have been taken and he also didn't provide any timeline of the counter-offensive. The Ukrainian president just said that he had received "good reports" at a meeting on Sunday from his military commanders and head of intelligence. In his address, Zelensky said that the forces liberated a settlement in the eastern Donetsk region, and also an eastern area in the Lysychansk-Siversk direction. WATCH | Ukrainian forces recapture three settlements in Southern and Eastern Ukraine × ALSO READ | Germany agrees on $65 billion relief package, to include tax breaks and one-off payments Kyrylo Tymoshenko, who is the deputy head of the president's office, posted an image of soldiers raising the Ukrainian flag over a village on Sunday. The village is claimed to be in the southern area which is the main focus of the counter-offensive. "Vysokopillya. Kherson region. Ukraine. Today," Tymoshenko wrote in a Facebook post over a photo of three soldiers on rooftops, one of them fixing a Ukrainian flag to a post. 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 claims Ukraine takes three settlements in south and east in counter-offensive

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that his country’s troops have launched attacks on Russian positions along the entire front of the war.

Ukrainian troops have attacked Russian positions along entire front of war, says Zelenksy

The Ukraine crisis has had a wide-ranging impact on many countries, but according to a recent report, the impact on the United States, given its military expenditures is&nbsp;one not many would've predicted.

Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reports that war has depleted "American stocks of some types of ammunition" which haven't been replenished on time, and that has sparked concerns among officials, who believe that this could jeopardize the US military's readiness in face of danger.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | Explained: Where the Ukraine war stands after 6 months

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The United States has given Ukraine 16 Himars rocket launchers, thousands of rifles, drones, missiles, and other weapons over the last six months. The WSJ report citing defence sources says that a large portion of this, including the ammunition, has come directly from US inventory, depleting supplies intended for unforeseen threats.

Among the lethal weapons given to Ukraine are howitzers, which use 155mm combat rounds, the ammunition used to strike Iranian-backed terror groups in Syria last week. As of August 24, the US military has sent the war-torn nation 806,000 rounds of it, depleting its own stockpile to "uncomfortably low" levels, according to a defence official.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-does-the-latest-775mn-us-arms-package-to-ukraine-include-508745">What does the latest $775mn US arms package to Ukraine include?</a>

Since the United States is not involved in any significant military confrontation, the levels are not currently critical, the official continued, adding "It is not at the level we would like to go into combat."

The situation was "foreseeable", and was "easily fixable" says Mackenzie Eaglen, a senior fellow at the Washington-based American Enterprise Institute.

Reportedly,&nbsp;the military is currently conducting "an ammunitions industrial base deep dive in order to support Ukraine while safeguarding their "own supply needs."

The Army claimed it also requested $500 million in annual upgrades for its ammunition factories from Capitol Hill.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Ukraine crisis has had a wide-ranging impact on many countries, but according to a recent report, the impact on the United States, given its military expenditures is one not many would've predicted.

The Ukraine crisis has had a wide-ranging impact on many countries, but according to a recent report, the impact on the United States, given its military expenditures is one not many would've predicted. Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reports that war has depleted "American stocks of some types of ammunition" which haven't been replenished on time, and that has sparked concerns among officials, who believe that this could jeopardize the US military's readiness in face of danger. Watch | WION Fineprint | Explained: Where the Ukraine war stands after 6 months The United States has given Ukraine 16 Himars rocket launchers, thousands of rifles, drones, missiles, and other weapons over the last six months. The WSJ report citing defence sources says that a large portion of this, including the ammunition, has come directly from US inventory, depleting supplies intended for unforeseen threats. Among the lethal weapons given to Ukraine are howitzers, which use 155mm combat rounds, the ammunition used to strike Iranian-backed terror groups in Syria last week. As of August 24, the US military has sent the war-torn nation 806,000 rounds of it, depleting its own stockpile to "uncomfortably low" levels, according to a defence official. Also read | What does the latest $775mn US arms package to Ukraine include? Since the United States is not involved in any significant military confrontation, the levels are not currently critical, the official continued, adding "It is not at the level we would like to go into combat." The situation was "foreseeable", and was "easily fixable" says Mackenzie Eaglen, a senior fellow at the Washington-based American Enterprise Institute. Reportedly, the military is currently conducting "an ammunitions industrial base deep dive in order to support Ukraine while safeguarding their "own supply needs." The Army claimed it also requested $500 million in annual upgrades for its ammunition factories from Capitol Hill. (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' military aid to Ukraine left its own ammunition stockpiles 'uncomfortably low': Report

As it attempts to retake occupied Kherson, the Ukrainian military has claimed to have destroyed important Russian control stations, munitions, and stores.

Kherson, a significant port city with access to important commercial, naval, and other sea routes, is just around 60 miles (100 km) from the Russian-occupied Crimea.

A Ukrainian official claims that progress has been achieved in the counteroffensive that the government is waging in the south.

Russian troops are leaving certain locations where Ukraine has begun a counteroffensive, according to a spokesperson for Ukraine's southern military command on Monday.

The military command declared on Monday that the counteroffensive by Ukrainian forces to recover the Russian-occupied area of Kherson had started.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iaea-may-visit-russian-occupied-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-power-plant-in-ukraine-509593" hreflang="en">IAEA may visit Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine</a>

According to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukrainian forces will be able to drive occupying Russian forces back to pre-2014 lines.

The focus of attention was on any harm Ukraine might have caused to Russian forces around the port city of Kherson, a significant economic centre near the Black Sea that has been a valued possession of Moscow since it began the invasion just over half a year ago.

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<h5>“The occupiers must know: we will chase them to the border. To our border, which line has not been changed.If they want to survive - it’s time for the Russian military to run away ... If they do not hear me - they will have to deal with our defenders, who will not stop until they free everything that belongs to Ukraine,” Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address Monday.</h5>
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In the Kherson region, "strong explosions persisted throughout the day and night," according to a dispatch from the Ukrainian presidential office on Tuesday. Practically the entire strategic area is still rife with fierce fights. According to the report, Ukrainian forces have destroyed numerous ammunition storage facilities in the area as well as all substantial bridges over the Dnieper that are necessary for supplying the Russian soldiers.

The Russian state news agency Tass noted five explosions near Kherson on Tuesday morning; these explosions were likely caused by air defence systems.

Operation Command South of the Ukrainian military said that artillery fire was used to attack a dozen command posts in various areas of the Kherson region as well as a pontoon that Russian soldiers were erecting across the Dnieper.

Over the past few months, the war has come to a standstill, with casualties rising and the local population suffering disproportionately as a result of the constant shelling in the east and in the wider region surrounding the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which has also been the focal point of fighting in Ukraine.

Amid fears the plant could be damaged, leading to a radioactive leak, a U.N. nuclear watchdog team has arrived in Kyiv and is further preparing a mission to safeguard the Russian-occupied plant from nuclear catastrophe.

The stakes couldn’t be higher for the International Atomic Energy Agency experts, who will visit the plant in a country where the 1986 Chernobyl disaster spewed radiation throughout the region, shocking the world and intensifying a global push away from nuclear energy.

The Crimean peninsula was acquired by Russia from Ukraine in 2014, sparking a crisis that was dormant until the February 24 invasion. The Kherson area lies just north of that peninsula.

A substantial portion of the annexed peninsula's fresh water supplies come from the North Crimea Canal, which has its beginnings just to the east of the city.

The city effectively acts as a link between the rest of Ukraine and the Crimean peninsula, which Russia has controlled since 2014.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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As it attempts to retake occupied Kherson, the Ukrainian military has claimed to have destroyed important Russian control stations, munitions, and stores. Kherson, a significant port city with access to important commercial, naval, and other sea routes, is just around 60 miles (100 km) from the Russian-occupied Crimea.

As it attempts to retake occupied Kherson, the Ukrainian military has claimed to have destroyed important Russian control stations, munitions, and stores. Kherson, a significant port city with access to important commercial, naval, and other sea routes, is just around 60 miles (100 km) from the Russian-occupied Crimea. A Ukrainian official claims that progress has been achieved in the counteroffensive that the government is waging in the south. Russian troops are leaving certain locations where Ukraine has begun a counteroffensive, according to a spokesperson for Ukraine's southern military command on Monday. The military command declared on Monday that the counteroffensive by Ukrainian forces to recover the Russian-occupied area of Kherson had started. Also read | IAEA may visit Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine According to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukrainian forces will be able to drive occupying Russian forces back to pre-2014 lines. The focus of attention was on any harm Ukraine might have caused to Russian forces around the port city of Kherson, a significant economic centre near the Black Sea that has been a valued possession of Moscow since it began the invasion just over half a year ago. “The occupiers must know: we will chase them to the border. To our border, which line has not been changed.If they want to survive - it’s time for the Russian military to run away ... If they do not hear me - they will have to deal with our defenders, who will not stop until they free everything that belongs to Ukraine,” Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address Monday. × In the Kherson region, "strong explosions persisted throughout the day and night," according to a dispatch from the Ukrainian presidential office on Tuesday. Practically the entire strategic area is still rife with fierce fights. According to the report, Ukrainian forces have destroyed numerous ammunition storage facilities in the area as well as all substantial bridges over the Dnieper that are necessary for supplying the Russian soldiers. The Russian state news agency Tass noted five explosions near Kherson on Tuesday morning; these explosions were likely caused by air defence systems. Operation Command South of the Ukrainian military said that artillery fire was used to attack a dozen command posts in various areas of the Kherson region as well as a pontoon that Russian soldiers were erecting across the Dnieper. Over the past few months, the war has come to a standstill, with casualties rising and the local population suffering disproportionately as a result of the constant shelling in the east and in the wider region surrounding the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which has also been the focal point of fighting in Ukraine. Amid fears the plant could be damaged, leading to a radioactive leak, a U.N. nuclear watchdog team has arrived in Kyiv and is further preparing a mission to safeguard the Russian-occupied plant from nuclear catastrophe. The stakes couldn’t be higher for the International Atomic Energy Agency experts, who will visit the plant in a country where the 1986 Chernobyl disaster spewed radiation throughout the region, shocking the world and intensifying a global push away from nuclear energy. The Crimean peninsula was acquired by Russia from Ukraine in 2014, sparking a crisis that was dormant until the February 24 invasion. The Kherson area lies just north of that peninsula. A substantial portion of the annexed peninsula's fresh water supplies come from the North Crimea Canal, which has its beginnings just to the east of the city. The city effectively acts as a link between the rest of Ukraine and the Crimean peninsula, which Russia has controlled since 2014. (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.

'We will chase them to the border,’ says Zelensky, as Ukraine battles to retake Kherson 

Even if Kyiv formally renounces its aspirations to join NATO, Moscow would not stop its military campaign in Ukraine, according to Russian President Vladimir Putin's top ally Dmitry Medvedev.

Medvedev, who served as the president of Russia between 2008 and 2012, is currently the deputy chairman of the country's Security Council.

Highlighting that Russia is prepared to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Medvedev said that dropping NATO aspirations by Kyiv will not be sufficient in order to establish peace.

Medvedev told LCI television that Putin will not stop his ''special military operation'' to "denazify" Ukraine until its goals have been achieved. &nbsp;

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Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, several rounds of peace talks were held between the two countries, but they made no progress.

Denying that US weapons supplied to Ukraine pose a substantial threat, Medvedev said the situation would change if Washington sent weapons that could hit targets at longer distances.

"It means that when this sort of missile flies 70 km, that is one thing," he said.&nbsp;

"But when it's 300-400 km, that is another, now that would be a threat directly to the territory of the Russian Federation."

As he wrapped up a visit to Canada that included a tour of its Arctic defences, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg stressed the need to beef up security along the alliance's northern flank to counter Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Even if Kyiv formally renounces its aspirations to join NATO, Moscow would not stop its military campaign in Ukraine, according to Russian President Vladimir Putin's top ally Dmitry Medvedev.

Even if Kyiv formally renounces its aspirations to join NATO, Moscow would not stop its military campaign in Ukraine, according to Russian President Vladimir Putin's top ally Dmitry Medvedev. Medvedev, who served as the president of Russia between 2008 and 2012, is currently the deputy chairman of the country's Security Council. Highlighting that Russia is prepared to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Medvedev said that dropping NATO aspirations by Kyiv will not be sufficient in order to establish peace. Medvedev told LCI television that Putin will not stop his ''special military operation'' to "denazify" Ukraine until its goals have been achieved. × Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, several rounds of peace talks were held between the two countries, but they made no progress. Denying that US weapons supplied to Ukraine pose a substantial threat, Medvedev said the situation would change if Washington sent weapons that could hit targets at longer distances. "It means that when this sort of missile flies 70 km, that is one thing," he said. "But when it's 300-400 km, that is another, now that would be a threat directly to the territory of the Russian Federation." As he wrapped up a visit to Canada that included a tour of its Arctic defences, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg stressed the need to beef up security along the alliance's northern flank to counter Russia. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's LIVE TV here: ×

Putin's ally says Moscow would not stop its military campaign in Ukraine even if Kyiv drops NATO hopes

Wednesday (August 24) marked six months since Russian President Vladimir Putin launched an all-out attack on neighbouring Ukraine. The day held additional significance for Kyiv because it was on this day, 31 years ago, that the country declared its independence from the Soviet Union. As the anniversary celebrations commenced, Ukraine also unveiled plans for how it intends to make Putin responsible for his crimes.

As per an AFP report, Ukraine is drawing up plans for a special international tribunal to investigate Russia's alleged "crime of aggression".

The Rome Statute of 2010 established the definition of the crime of aggression.&nbsp;However, since neither Ukraine nor Russia has joined the Rome Statute, it is unable to investigate charges of aggression.

Watch |&nbsp;6 months of Ukraine war: War takes gruesome toll on innocent

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Speaking to AFP, the man spearheading this plan, Andrii Smirnov, deputy head of Ukraine's presidential administration, said that this court is "the only way to make sure that the criminals who started the Ukraine war are held accountable quickly."

"The world has a short memory. That's why I would like this tribunal to start working next year."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/15-killed-50-hurt-after-russian-missile-strikes-ukrainian-railway-station-says-zelensky-509936" hreflang="en">15 killed, 50 hurt after Russian missile strikes Ukrainian railway station, says Zelensky</a>

It "will serve to make sure that these people are labelled as criminals, and that they cannot travel in the civilised world," he said, adding that Ukraine is aware that the accused will not be present.

Approximately 600 suspects in the aggression have been named by Ukrainian authorities so far, including senior military officers, politicians, and commentators.

The international treaty establishing the tribunal has been drafted and is ready for signing by nations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-may-announce-sham-referenda-this-week-to-formalize-control-of-occupied-territories-in-ukraine-509929" hreflang="en">Russia may announce 'sham' referenda this week to formalize control of occupied territories in Ukraine</a>

Under it, any convicted offenders might be incarcerated on the soil of the signatory nations.

According to Smirnov, numerous nations are expected to ratify the agreement before the year is through, and talks are ongoing with "several European partners (who) are willing to host the tribunal."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Wednesday (August 24) marked six months since Russian President Vladimir Putin launched an all-out attack on neighbouring Ukraine. The day held additional significance for Kyiv because it was on this day, 31 years ago, that the country declared its independence from the Soviet Union.

Wednesday (August 24) marked six months since Russian President Vladimir Putin launched an all-out attack on neighbouring Ukraine. The day held additional significance for Kyiv because it was on this day, 31 years ago, that the country declared its independence from the Soviet Union. As the anniversary celebrations commenced, Ukraine also unveiled plans for how it intends to make Putin responsible for his crimes. As per an AFP report, Ukraine is drawing up plans for a special international tribunal to investigate Russia's alleged "crime of aggression". The Rome Statute of 2010 established the definition of the crime of aggression. However, since neither Ukraine nor Russia has joined the Rome Statute, it is unable to investigate charges of aggression. Watch | 6 months of Ukraine war: War takes gruesome toll on innocent Speaking to AFP, the man spearheading this plan, Andrii Smirnov, deputy head of Ukraine's presidential administration, said that this court is "the only way to make sure that the criminals who started the Ukraine war are held accountable quickly." "The world has a short memory. That's why I would like this tribunal to start working next year." Also read | 15 killed, 50 hurt after Russian missile strikes Ukrainian railway station, says Zelensky It "will serve to make sure that these people are labelled as criminals, and that they cannot travel in the civilised world," he said, adding that Ukraine is aware that the accused will not be present. Approximately 600 suspects in the aggression have been named by Ukrainian authorities so far, including senior military officers, politicians, and commentators. The international treaty establishing the tribunal has been drafted and is ready for signing by nations. Also read | Russia may announce 'sham' referenda this week to formalize control of occupied territories in Ukraine Under it, any convicted offenders might be incarcerated on the soil of the signatory nations. According to Smirnov, numerous nations are expected to ratify the agreement before the year is through, and talks are ongoing with "several European partners (who) are willing to host the tribunal." (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 reveals plan to hold Vladimir Putin accountable for his 'crime of aggression'

At least&nbsp;22 people were killed and&nbsp;50 wounded after Russian missile strikes hit a Ukraine railway station on Wednesday, the 31st Independence Day of the war-ravaged country.&nbsp;

The strikes came as Ukraine&nbsp;marked its independence and incidentally also the six months of its war with Russia.

“I have just received information about a Russian missile strike on a railway station in the (central) Dnipropetrovsk region," Zelensky informed in a speech to the UN Security Council on Wednesday.

The Ukrainian leader added that the strike was "right on the wagons at Chaplino station. Four passenger cars are on fire", reported&nbsp;AFP.

Zelensky said he expects the number of casualties to increase. "Rescuers are working on the spot, but the death toll may rise, unfortunately. This is our daily life," Zelensky said.

The images of destruction were shared by Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba on Twitter.

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Terrorist Russia keeps killing Ukrainian civilians. At least 15 killed in a Russian missile strike on a train station in Chaplyne, Dnipropetrovsk region. As <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZelenskyyUa</a> stressed at UNSC: terrorist Russia must be stopped now before it kills more people in Ukraine and beyond. <a href="https://t.co/GSbMbrYEc2">pic.twitter.com/GSbMbrYEc2</a>
— Dmytro Kuleba (@DmytroKuleba) <a href="https://twitter.com/DmytroKuleba/status/1562516375356076033?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The photos purportedly show a number of smouldering rail carriages which seem to have suffered fire damage, as well as burned-out road vehicles and fallen masonry.

The minister said civilians had been killed in the attack, and blamed Russia for the missile strike.

Meanwhile, several missile strikes took place across Ukrainian territory on Wednesday, according to Yuriy Sak, adviser to the Ukrainian defence minister Oleksii Reznikov.

“The aggressor … proved the expectations that we had and is conducting today missile strikes across the Ukrainian territory,” Sak told CNN.

Sak said that Ukraine had “been receiving warnings about the possibility of massive missile strikes” on Ukraine’s Independence Day for nearly a week.

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least 22 people were killed and 50 wounded after Russian missile strikes hit a Ukraine railway station on Wednesday, the 31st Independence Day of the war-ravaged country.

At least 22 people were killed and 50 wounded after Russian missile strikes hit a Ukraine railway station on Wednesday, the 31st Independence Day of the war-ravaged country. The strikes came as Ukraine marked its independence and incidentally also the six months of its war with Russia. “I have just received information about a Russian missile strike on a railway station in the (central) Dnipropetrovsk region," Zelensky informed in a speech to the UN Security Council on Wednesday. The Ukrainian leader added that the strike was "right on the wagons at Chaplino station. Four passenger cars are on fire", reported AFP. Zelensky said he expects the number of casualties to increase. "Rescuers are working on the spot, but the death toll may rise, unfortunately. This is our daily life," Zelensky said. The images of destruction were shared by Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba on Twitter. Terrorist Russia keeps killing Ukrainian civilians. At least 15 killed in a Russian missile strike on a train station in Chaplyne, Dnipropetrovsk region. As @ZelenskyyUa stressed at UNSC: terrorist Russia must be stopped now before it kills more people in Ukraine and beyond. pic.twitter.com/GSbMbrYEc2 — Dmytro Kuleba (@DmytroKuleba) August 24, 2022 × The photos purportedly show a number of smouldering rail carriages which seem to have suffered fire damage, as well as burned-out road vehicles and fallen masonry. The minister said civilians had been killed in the attack, and blamed Russia for the missile strike. Meanwhile, several missile strikes took place across Ukrainian territory on Wednesday, according to Yuriy Sak, adviser to the Ukrainian defence minister Oleksii Reznikov. “The aggressor … proved the expectations that we had and is conducting today missile strikes across the Ukrainian territory,” Sak told CNN. Sak said that Ukraine had “been receiving warnings about the possibility of massive missile strikes” on Ukraine’s Independence Day for nearly a week. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

At least 22 killed, 50 hurt in Russian missile strikes at Ukraine railway station

Volodymyr Zelensky has told Ukrainians in an emotional speech to mark 31 years of independence that the country was reborn when Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24.

Ukraine marks Independence day: Zelensky says Ukraine was ‘reborn’ when Russia invaded on Feb 24

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to retake its annexed Crimea peninsula from Russia by any means necessary and added that Kyiv would consult with countries before taking such action.

The Ukrainian president made these comments at the second iteration of the Crimea Platform on Tuesday—an online gathering of 60 nations and international organisations hosted by Kyiv focused on the peninsula.

"We will take back Crimea- it is our territory. We will do this in any way which we decide. We will decide this by ourselves, without consultation with any other country in the world," he told reporters.

"Ukraine is strong enough and powerful enough to see a perspective for Ukrainian Crimea. We will bring freedom to Ukrainian citizens in Crimea, and we will restore justice to all those who suffered from the repressions and abuses of the Russian occupiers," Zelensky was quoted as saying by Newsweek.

"I know that Crimea is with Ukraine, is waiting for us to return. I want all of you to know that we will return. We need to win the fight against Russian aggression. Therefore, we need to free Crimea from&nbsp;occupation.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-is-on-high-alert-as-i-day-approaches-top-ukrainian-official-tells-wion-509536" hreflang="en">Ukraine is on high alert as I-day approaches, top Ukraine official tells WION</a>

Speaking of Ukraine's war with Russia, Zelensky said, “It began with Crimea, it will end with Crimea."

Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014 following the pro-Western Maidan Revolution. The peninsula served as a launchpad for Russia’s full-scale invasion in February this year, seizing chunks of Ukraine's southern Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iaea-may-visit-russian-occupied-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-power-plant-in-ukraine-509593" hreflang="en">IAEA may visit Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine</a>

In recent weeks, Ukraine has increased its attacks in Crimea, with long-range&nbsp;weapons and drones&nbsp;targeting air bases, transport hubs, logistics depots, and command centres, triggering panic among Russians in Crimea, according to reports.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to retake its annexed Crimea peninsula from Russia by any means necessary and added that Kyiv would consult with countries before taking such action.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to retake its annexed Crimea peninsula from Russia by any means necessary and added that Kyiv would consult with countries before taking such action. The Ukrainian president made these comments at the second iteration of the Crimea Platform on Tuesday—an online gathering of 60 nations and international organisations hosted by Kyiv focused on the peninsula. "We will take back Crimea- it is our territory. We will do this in any way which we decide. We will decide this by ourselves, without consultation with any other country in the world," he told reporters. "Ukraine is strong enough and powerful enough to see a perspective for Ukrainian Crimea. We will bring freedom to Ukrainian citizens in Crimea, and we will restore justice to all those who suffered from the repressions and abuses of the Russian occupiers," Zelensky was quoted as saying by Newsweek. "I know that Crimea is with Ukraine, is waiting for us to return. I want all of you to know that we will return. We need to win the fight against Russian aggression. Therefore, we need to free Crimea from occupation.” Also read | Ukraine is on high alert as I-day approaches, top Ukraine official tells WION Speaking of Ukraine's war with Russia, Zelensky said, “It began with Crimea, it will end with Crimea." Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014 following the pro-Western Maidan Revolution. The peninsula served as a launchpad for Russia’s full-scale invasion in February this year, seizing chunks of Ukraine's southern Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions. Also read | IAEA may visit Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine In recent weeks, Ukraine has increased its attacks in Crimea, with long-range weapons and drones targeting air bases, transport hubs, logistics depots, and command centres, triggering panic among Russians in Crimea, according to reports. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukrainian President Zelensky vows to retake annexed Crimea from Russia

The United States has rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s request to impose a blanket visa ban on Russians as conflict continues to rise in Ukraine. While the US has been an ardent supporter of Ukraine during the Russian invasion, the White House has said that a blanket ban will close any opportunity for “dissidents and people vulnerable to human rights abuses”.

Earlier, Zelensky urged the US government to stop any Russian citizen from entering the country by imposing a visa ban. During an interview with the Washington Post, the Ukrainian president said that the Russians need to "live in their own world until they change their philosophy."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/released-ukrainian-soldiers-accuse-russians-of-atrocities-in-prison-509299" hreflang="en">Released Ukrainian soldiers accuse Russians of atrocities in prison</a>

He also made a similar request to the countries of the European Union as he said that such a step will stop them from becoming a "supermarket open to anyone with the means to enter”.

However, the White House made it clear on Monday that they will not be imposing any such ban. A spokesperson from the state department said in the official statement that the US has already sanctioned key Kremlin officials and will continue to aid Ukraine in their ongoing struggle.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-seeks-special-master-to-examine-mar-a-lago-documents-509307">Trump seeks 'special master' to examine Mar-a-Lago documents</a>

"The U.S. wouldn’t want to close off pathways to refuge and safety for Russia’s dissidents or others who are vulnerable to human rights abuses," the spokesperson said, according to Reuters.

"We’ve also been clear that it is important to draw a line between the actions of the Russian government and its policies in Ukraine, and the people of Russia," the spokesperson added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States has rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s request to impose a blanket visa ban on Russians as conflict continues to rise in Ukraine.

The United States has rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s request to impose a blanket visa ban on Russians as conflict continues to rise in Ukraine. While the US has been an ardent supporter of Ukraine during the Russian invasion, the White House has said that a blanket ban will close any opportunity for “dissidents and people vulnerable to human rights abuses”. Earlier, Zelensky urged the US government to stop any Russian citizen from entering the country by imposing a visa ban. During an interview with the Washington Post, the Ukrainian president said that the Russians need to "live in their own world until they change their philosophy." Also read | Released Ukrainian soldiers accuse Russians of atrocities in prison He also made a similar request to the countries of the European Union as he said that such a step will stop them from becoming a "supermarket open to anyone with the means to enter”. However, the White House made it clear on Monday that they will not be imposing any such ban. A spokesperson from the state department said in the official statement that the US has already sanctioned key Kremlin officials and will continue to aid Ukraine in their ongoing struggle. Also read | Trump seeks 'special master' to examine Mar-a-Lago documents "The U.S. wouldn’t want to close off pathways to refuge and safety for Russia’s dissidents or others who are vulnerable to human rights abuses," the spokesperson said, according to Reuters. "We’ve also been clear that it is important to draw a line between the actions of the Russian government and its policies in Ukraine, and the people of Russia," the spokesperson added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE -

US rejects Volodymyr Zelensky’s request to impose a blanket visa ban on Russians

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