As Russian forces continue their operations, Ukraine's First Lady Olena Zelenska in a joint interview with her husband President Volodymyr Zelensky declared that the president's "point of view hasn’t changed, the way he’s wired hasn’t changed."

Earlier this month, Zelenska had met US First Lady Jill Biden during an unannounced visit. Ukraine's First Lady had fled Kyiv with her children as Putin's forces began their operation on February 24.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-rules-out-ceasefire-or-any-territorial-concessions-to-russia-481349">Also Read:&nbsp;Ukraine rules out ceasefire or any territorial concessions to Russia</a>

"Nobody takes my husband away from me, not even war," Zelenska told the television channel while praising her husband's effort, although she added that "I can’t say that Volodymyr has changed since the start of this war. He was a reliable husband and a reliable man before, and that he remains."

"He lives for his job, we almost don't get to see him," she admitted. Olena said the family hadn't seen Ukraine's president for two and a half months, adding, "We only spoke on the phone".

Watch:&nbsp;Russia seeks to capture Ukraine-controlled regions

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"Now, we had a few occasions to see each other," and remarked that their current interview allowed her to spend time with her husband.

"A date on TV," she said while thanking the interviewers.

Recounting the night of the invasion when Russian forces began their bombing operations, Zelenska said: "I remember that I woke up from weird sounds from outside as probably everyone did. It was dark almost night and I saw that Volodymyr was not by my side."

"I went to the next room, he was already dressed in a suit but without a tie."

"I asked him: What was going on? and he said: it has started."

"I can't describe the emotions - anxiety, stupor. He told me this and left," she said. "After that we didn't see each other for a long time."

(With inputs from Agencies)

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As Russian forces continue their operations, Ukraine's First Lady Olena Zelenska in a joint interview with her husband President Volodymyr Zelensky declared that the president's "point of view hasn’t changed, the way he’s wired hasn’t changed.

As Russian forces continue their operations, Ukraine's First Lady Olena Zelenska in a joint interview with her husband President Volodymyr Zelensky declared that the president's "point of view hasn’t changed, the way he’s wired hasn’t changed." Earlier this month, Zelenska had met US First Lady Jill Biden during an unannounced visit. Ukraine's First Lady had fled Kyiv with her children as Putin's forces began their operation on February 24. Also Read: Ukraine rules out ceasefire or any territorial concessions to Russia "Nobody takes my husband away from me, not even war," Zelenska told the television channel while praising her husband's effort, although she added that "I can’t say that Volodymyr has changed since the start of this war. He was a reliable husband and a reliable man before, and that he remains." "He lives for his job, we almost don't get to see him," she admitted. Olena said the family hadn't seen Ukraine's president for two and a half months, adding, "We only spoke on the phone". Watch: Russia seeks to capture Ukraine-controlled regions "Now, we had a few occasions to see each other," and remarked that their current interview allowed her to spend time with her husband. "A date on TV," she said while thanking the interviewers. Recounting the night of the invasion when Russian forces began their bombing operations, Zelenska said: "I remember that I woke up from weird sounds from outside as probably everyone did. It was dark almost night and I saw that Volodymyr was not by my side." "I went to the next room, he was already dressed in a suit but without a tie." "I asked him: What was going on? and he said: it has started." "I can't describe the emotions - anxiety, stupor. He told me this and left," she said. "After that we didn't see each other for a long time." (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.

The way he's wired hasn't changed, Ukraine's First Lady on her husband Volodymyr Zelensky

After a gap of nearly two-and-a-half years, Swiss ski resort town Davos is hosting the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting. The Russia-Ukraine war is going to dominate the talks in Davos. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky while addressing the 2,500 leaders from politics, business, media attending the summit called for maximum sanctions on Russia

World Economic Forum meet in Davos: Zelensky addresses World's Business Elite

In order to secure Russian compensation for invading Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed a formal deal with the country's allies.

Such a deal would show nations planning aggressive acts that they would have to pay for their actions according to Zelensky.

In his video address, he said, "We invite partner countries to sign a multilateral agreement and create a mechanism ensuring that everybody who suffered from Russian actions can receive compensation for all losses incurred."

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He added that Russia is trying to destroy as much of Ukraine's infrastructure as it can and that under such a deal, Russian funds and property in signatory nations would be confiscated.&nbsp;

Highlighting the redirection of confiscated funds and property to a special compensation fund, Zelensky said "That would be fair as Russia will feel the weight of every missile, every bomb, every shell which it has fired at us."

Describing the bombardment of Severodonetsk as "brutal and absolutely pointless", Zelensky said, "There's hell, and that's not an exaggeration."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/peresvet-and-zadira-russia-unveils-new-laser-weapons-against-ukraine-war-480775" hreflang="en">'Peresvet' and ‘Zadira': Russia unveils new laser weapons against Ukraine war</a>

Marking an end to a weeks-long siege, Russia's defence ministry said the last group of Ukrainian forces holed up in Mariupol's Azovstal steelworks had surrendered.

As a part of the compensation to victims or to help in rebuilding a foreign state from war, last month Canada announced that it would change its sanctions law to allow for sanctioned and seized foreign assets to be redistributed.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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In order to secure Russian compensation for invading Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed a formal deal with the country's allies. Such a deal would show nations planning aggressive acts that they would have to pay for their actions according to Zelensky.

In order to secure Russian compensation for invading Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed a formal deal with the country's allies. Such a deal would show nations planning aggressive acts that they would have to pay for their actions according to Zelensky. In his video address, he said, "We invite partner countries to sign a multilateral agreement and create a mechanism ensuring that everybody who suffered from Russian actions can receive compensation for all losses incurred." He added that Russia is trying to destroy as much of Ukraine's infrastructure as it can and that under such a deal, Russian funds and property in signatory nations would be confiscated. Highlighting the redirection of confiscated funds and property to a special compensation fund, Zelensky said "That would be fair as Russia will feel the weight of every missile, every bomb, every shell which it has fired at us." Describing the bombardment of Severodonetsk as "brutal and absolutely pointless", Zelensky said, "There's hell, and that's not an exaggeration." Also read | 'Peresvet' and ‘Zadira': Russia unveils new laser weapons against Ukraine war Marking an end to a weeks-long siege, Russia's defence ministry said the last group of Ukrainian forces holed up in Mariupol's Azovstal steelworks had surrendered. As a part of the compensation to victims or to help in rebuilding a foreign state from war, last month Canada announced that it would change its sanctions law to allow for sanctioned and seized foreign assets to be redistributed. (With inputs from agencies) 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. Watch WION's live TV here

Zelensky proposes formal deal with allies to secure Russian compensation for Ukraine's invasion

The Russian invasion of Ukraine continues and there is no sign of a peaceful resolution. In the latest, the Russian defense ministry has said that Moscow's forces destroyed a large shipment of weapons in northern Ukraine.

Russian invasion of Ukraine continues, Zelensky says diplomacy can end war

There is a 22-page comic book that has been published on the life of Ukraine President Zelensky. Have a look here.

Comic book on Zelensky: 22-page book depicts President's life

Russia has intensified pressure on Donbas region in Ukraine. President Zelensky said Donbas is completely destroyed and this is a deliberate attempt to kill Ukrainians.

Ukraine under attack: 'Deliberate attempt to kill Ukrainians,' says President Zelensky

With the G7 and the US looking to support Ukraine through aid, President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday said that the industrial Donbas region has been ‘completely destroyed’ by the Russian forces, media reports said. The leader also accused Russia of carrying out senseless bombardments in its offensive. In a late-night video address, Zelensky said, "It is hell there - and that is not an exaggeration.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

Around 12 people were killed in brutal and absolutely senseless bombardment of Severodonetsk on Thursday. “(There are) constant strikes on the Odesa region, on the cities of central Ukraine. The Donbas is completely destroyed. This is a deliberate and criminal attempt to kill as many Ukrainians as possible, to destroy as many houses, social facilities and enterprises as possible," the president added. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-send-additional-military-aid-of-100-million-to-help-ukraine-in-ongoing-conflict-480560" hreflang="en">US to send additional military aid of $100 mn to help Ukraine in conflict</a>

This comes as the Group of Seven has agreed to provide Ukraine with $18.4 billion to help pay its bills on Thursday. These funds would speed up victory for the nation, Ukraine’s Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said. &nbsp;

At the G7 finance leaders' meeting in Germany, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told reporters, "The message was, 'We stand behind Ukraine. We're going to pull together with the resources that they need to get through this.'" &nbsp;&nbsp;

The US Senate has also sent a USD 40 billion Ukraine package, which was approved with an 86-11 vote, for final congressional approval on Thursday. It will provide economic, military and food aid to Ukraine and other US allies. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a written statement, Biden said, "I applaud the Congress for sending a clear bipartisan message to the world that the people of the United States stand together with the brave people of Ukraine as they defend their democracy and freedom." &nbsp;&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)

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With the G7 and the US looking to support Ukraine through aid, President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday said that the industrial Donbas region has been ‘completely destroyed’ by the Russian forces, media reports said.

With the G7 and the US looking to support Ukraine through aid, President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday said that the industrial Donbas region has been ‘completely destroyed’ by the Russian forces, media reports said. The leader also accused Russia of carrying out senseless bombardments in its offensive. In a late-night video address, Zelensky said, "It is hell there - and that is not an exaggeration.” Around 12 people were killed in brutal and absolutely senseless bombardment of Severodonetsk on Thursday. “(There are) constant strikes on the Odesa region, on the cities of central Ukraine. The Donbas is completely destroyed. This is a deliberate and criminal attempt to kill as many Ukrainians as possible, to destroy as many houses, social facilities and enterprises as possible," the president added. Also Read: US to send additional military aid of $100 mn to help Ukraine in conflict This comes as the Group of Seven has agreed to provide Ukraine with $18.4 billion to help pay its bills on Thursday. These funds would speed up victory for the nation, Ukraine’s Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said. At the G7 finance leaders' meeting in Germany, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told reporters, "The message was, 'We stand behind Ukraine. We're going to pull together with the resources that they need to get through this.'" The US Senate has also sent a USD 40 billion Ukraine package, which was approved with an 86-11 vote, for final congressional approval on Thursday. It will provide economic, military and food aid to Ukraine and other US allies. In a written statement, Biden said, "I applaud the Congress for sending a clear bipartisan message to the world that the people of the United States stand together with the brave people of Ukraine as they defend their democracy and freedom." WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

As G7, US look to help Ukraine with aid, President Zelensky says Donbas region completely destroyed

Russian and Ukrainian soldiers have been fighting for nearly 80 days now as troops on Kremlin’s order make advances into Ukraine’s territories. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have been ordering their troops for offensive and counter-offensive in different cities including Kyiv, Mariupol, Kherson and others since the Russian troops marched into Ukrainian territory on February 24 this year. Russia successfully occupied Ukrainian regions in a battle that has been going on for months now. Notably, Luhansk and Donetsk were the regions in Ukraine that were already occupied by Russia before February 24. Which other territories have Russia occupied? And where does Ukraine hold back Russian troops?

Ukraine conflict: Russian-controlled territories vs Ukraine’s counter-offensive

It has been 70 days since Russian troops launched a full-scale offensive into Ukrainian territories. Hundreds of lives have been lost, millions have been displaced the question is when will this war end?

Watch | 'Zelensky acting at behest of US,'  Belarus President supports Russia

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky’s fleece jacket has sold for a record $110,000 at&nbsp;a London auction, reports said.

Reports claim UK PM Boris Johnson had himself pitched for a higher starting sale price for the famous jacket. The jacket was sold at the Tate Modern in London.

The Ukraine President had given a speech ahead of the fundraiser. A cockerel jug presented to the UK prime minister during his recent visit to Kyiv where he met President Zelensky was also on sale.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sixty-people-in-school-probably-dead-claims-ukraine-governor-after-russian-strike-477385">Also Read:&nbsp;Sixty people in school probably dead, claims Ukraine governor after Russian strike</a>

The event also included a paid guided tour by Kyiv's mayor former heavyweight boxing champion Vitali Klitschko. Johnson who had addressed the Ukrainian parliament earlier said Kyiv was worth visiting while asking the people present at the auction to "dig deep".

Johnson lauded Zelensky's effort saying he is "one of the most incredible leaders of modern times”.

Watch:&nbsp;Street artists paint murals in support of Ukraine

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Ahead of the celebration in Moscow&nbsp;to mark the former Soviet Union's victory against Nazi Germany in World War II, Zelensky lashed out at Russia saying "evil has returned" to Europe.

"Evil has returned, in a different uniform, under different slogans, but for the same purpose," Ukraine's president said. However, Putin in an address said "as in 1945, victory will be ours" before the&nbsp;May 9 celebrations on Sunday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

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Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky’s fleece jacket has sold for a record $110,000 at a London auction, reports said. Reports claim UK PM Boris Johnson had himself pitched for a higher starting sale price for the famous jacket.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky’s fleece jacket has sold for a record $110,000 at a London auction, reports said. Reports claim UK PM Boris Johnson had himself pitched for a higher starting sale price for the famous jacket. The jacket was sold at the Tate Modern in London. The Ukraine President had given a speech ahead of the fundraiser. A cockerel jug presented to the UK prime minister during his recent visit to Kyiv where he met President Zelensky was also on sale. Also Read: Sixty people in school probably dead, claims Ukraine governor after Russian strike The event also included a paid guided tour by Kyiv's mayor former heavyweight boxing champion Vitali Klitschko. Johnson who had addressed the Ukrainian parliament earlier said Kyiv was worth visiting while asking the people present at the auction to "dig deep". Johnson lauded Zelensky's effort saying he is "one of the most incredible leaders of modern times”. Watch: Street artists paint murals in support of Ukraine Ahead of the celebration in Moscow to mark the former Soviet Union's victory against Nazi Germany in World War II, Zelensky lashed out at Russia saying "evil has returned" to Europe. "Evil has returned, in a different uniform, under different slogans, but for the same purpose," Ukraine's president said. However, Putin in an address said "as in 1945, victory will be ours" before the May 9 celebrations on Sunday. (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Zelensky's iconic fleece auctioned for record price in London

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has accused Russia of threatening peace and security across Europe.

According to him, "Putin's brutal attack is not only causing untold devastation in Ukraine, but it is also threatening peace and security across Europe."

Ahead of a planned video call on Sunday by Group of Seven leaders with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, he also pledged to provide a further 1.3 billion pounds ($1.60 billion) in military support and aid to Kyiv.

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Johnson, who is one of the strongest supporters of Ukraine's efforts to resist Russian forces since Russian President Vladimir Putin launched the invasion, has provided Kyiv with anti-tank missiles, air defence systems, and other weapons.

Calling this the highest rate of spending on a conflict since the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, Johnson said the new pledge almost doubles Britain's previous spending commitments on Ukraine.

The British government will utilise a reserve used for emergencies for the extra spending on Ukraine.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russias-simulated-nuclear-missile-strikes-il-80-doomsday-plane-477100">Russia's 'simulated' nuclear missile strikes &amp; Il-80 Doomsday plane</a>

The United Kingdom had previously faced criticism from France for accepting relatively few of the more than 5 million Ukrainians who have fled their country.

With Russia marking the 77th anniversary of the victory of the Soviet Union over Nazi Germany on May 9, leaders of G7 countries will hold their virtual meeting with Zelensky on Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has accused Russia of threatening peace and security across Europe. According to him, "Putin's brutal attack is not only causing untold devastation in Ukraine, but it is also threatening peace and security across Europe.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has accused Russia of threatening peace and security across Europe. According to him, "Putin's brutal attack is not only causing untold devastation in Ukraine, but it is also threatening peace and security across Europe." Ahead of a planned video call on Sunday by Group of Seven leaders with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, he also pledged to provide a further 1.3 billion pounds ($1.60 billion) in military support and aid to Kyiv. Johnson, who is one of the strongest supporters of Ukraine's efforts to resist Russian forces since Russian President Vladimir Putin launched the invasion, has provided Kyiv with anti-tank missiles, air defence systems, and other weapons. Calling this the highest rate of spending on a conflict since the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, Johnson said the new pledge almost doubles Britain's previous spending commitments on Ukraine. The British government will utilise a reserve used for emergencies for the extra spending on Ukraine. Also see | Russia's 'simulated' nuclear missile strikes & Il-80 Doomsday plane The United Kingdom had previously faced criticism from France for accepting relatively few of the more than 5 million Ukrainians who have fled their country. With Russia marking the 77th anniversary of the victory of the Soviet Union over Nazi Germany on May 9, leaders of G7 countries will hold their virtual meeting with Zelensky on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world's unending wars. Catch our special series World at War every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.

UK accuses Russia of threatening peace and security across Europe; pledges aid to Ukraine

The UK government said Friday it was deploying about 8,000&nbsp;troops&nbsp;for exercises across eastern&nbsp;Europe&nbsp;in a show of strength after&nbsp;Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The months-long drills in countries stretching from Finland to North Macedonia also involve allies including France and the United States, defence officials said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-25-million-tonnes-of-grain-stuck-in-ukraine-un-food-agency-476870">Nearly 25 million tonnes of grain stuck in Ukraine: UN food agency</a>

Britain&nbsp;is deploying 72 Challenger 2&nbsp;tanks&nbsp;and 120 armoured fighting vehicles along with artillery guns, helicopters and drones for the exercises, some of which are already underway.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: European Union states block sanctions on Russia oil

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"The security of&nbsp;Europe&nbsp;has never been more important," Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said, calling it "one of the largest shared deployments since the Cold War".

The officer in command, Lieutenant General Ralph Wooddisse, said&nbsp;Britain&nbsp;was making "a significant contribution to the defence of&nbsp;Europe&nbsp;and the deterrence of Russian aggression".&nbsp;

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"The British Army's series of exercises is fundamental to both."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-assures-it-wont-use-nuclear-weapons-in-ongoing-war-against-ukraine-476897">Russia assures it won’t use nuclear weapons in ongoing war against Ukraine</a>

Britain&nbsp;has been supplying missiles to Ukraine to fight back against&nbsp;Russia, and says it is ready to help with&nbsp;tanks&nbsp;and planes via partners such as Poland.

Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said Wednesday that "the whole of Ukraine" must be liberated, including Crimea, after the peninsula was seized by&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;in 2014.

The UK government said Friday it was deploying about 8,000 troops for exercises across eastern Europe in a show of strength after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The months-long drills in countries stretching from Finland to North Macedonia also involve allies including France and the United States, defence officials said in a statement.

The UK government said Friday it was deploying about 8,000 troops for exercises across eastern Europe in a show of strength after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The months-long drills in countries stretching from Finland to North Macedonia also involve allies including France and the United States, defence officials said in a statement. Also read | Nearly 25 million tonnes of grain stuck in Ukraine: UN food agency Britain is deploying 72 Challenger 2 tanks and 120 armoured fighting vehicles along with artillery guns, helicopters and drones for the exercises, some of which are already underway. Watch | Gravitas: European Union states block sanctions on Russia oil "The security of Europe has never been more important," Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said, calling it "one of the largest shared deployments since the Cold War". The officer in command, Lieutenant General Ralph Wooddisse, said Britain was making "a significant contribution to the defence of Europe and the deterrence of Russian aggression". WATCH WION LIVE HERE: "The British Army's series of exercises is fundamental to both." Also read | Russia assures it won’t use nuclear weapons in ongoing war against Ukraine Britain has been supplying missiles to Ukraine to fight back against Russia, and says it is ready to help with tanks and planes via partners such as Poland. Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said Wednesday that "the whole of Ukraine" must be liberated, including Crimea, after the peninsula was seized by Russia in 2014.

UK deploys 8,000 troops to Europe to deter 'Russian aggression'

A UN food agency official said on Friday that about 25 million tonnes of grains are stuck in Ukraine and unable to leave owing to infrastructure problems and blocked Black Sea ports, including Mariupol.

According to the FAO, the obstructions are a role in rising food prices, which reached a record high in March following Russia’s “special military operation” before easing marginally in April.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-destroyed-400-hospitals-leaving-patients-in-extreme-difficulties-zelensky-476697">Russia destroyed 400 hospitals, leaving patients in extreme difficulties: Zelensky</a>

Reuters reports that according to figures from the International Grains Council, Ukraine was the world’s fourth-largest exporter of maize (corn) and the sixth-largest exporter of wheat in the 2020/2021 season.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine tensions: Third round of evacuation ops underway; UN, Red Cross renew efforts

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FAO Deputy Director, Markets and Trade Division, Josef Schmidhuber in a Geneva press conference via Zoom said, “It's an almost grotesque situation we see at the moment in Ukraine with nearly 25 million&nbsp;tonnes of grain that could be exported but that cannot leave the country simply because of lack of infrastructure, the blockade of the ports."

He further said that the full silos may cause storage problems for the upcoming harvest in the month of July and August. Another matter of concern, he continued, is indications that some grain storage facilities in Ukraine have been destroyed because of the war.&nbsp;

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Ukraine has been obliged to export grain via&nbsp;train over its western border or from its minor Danube River ports since Moscow initiated the war in late February.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-helping-ukraine-target-russian-generals-pentagon-476727">Not helping Ukraine 'target' Russian generals: Pentagon</a>

The head of the World Trade Organisation in conversation with Reuters said that she is “extremely concerned” about rising food prices and is working with other partners to find answers for the same.&nbsp;

"It would really help the world if we could evacuate this grain (from Ukraine)," Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said. "There's a serious risk of food prices going up and spiraling out of affordability that could lead to more hunger."

(With inputs from agencies)

Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.&nbsp;

A UN food agency official said on Friday that about 25 million tonnes of grains are stuck in Ukraine and unable to leave owing to infrastructure problems and blocked Black Sea ports, including Mariupol.

A UN food agency official said on Friday that about 25 million tonnes of grains are stuck in Ukraine and unable to leave owing to infrastructure problems and blocked Black Sea ports, including Mariupol. According to the FAO, the obstructions are a role in rising food prices, which reached a record high in March following Russia’s “special military operation” before easing marginally in April. Also read | Russia destroyed 400 hospitals, leaving patients in extreme difficulties: Zelensky Reuters reports that according to figures from the International Grains Council, Ukraine was the world’s fourth-largest exporter of maize (corn) and the sixth-largest exporter of wheat in the 2020/2021 season. Watch | Russia-Ukraine tensions: Third round of evacuation ops underway; UN, Red Cross renew efforts FAO Deputy Director, Markets and Trade Division, Josef Schmidhuber in a Geneva press conference via Zoom said, “It's an almost grotesque situation we see at the moment in Ukraine with nearly 25 million tonnes of grain that could be exported but that cannot leave the country simply because of lack of infrastructure, the blockade of the ports." He further said that the full silos may cause storage problems for the upcoming harvest in the month of July and August. Another matter of concern, he continued, is indications that some grain storage facilities in Ukraine have been destroyed because of the war. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: Ukraine has been obliged to export grain via train over its western border or from its minor Danube River ports since Moscow initiated the war in late February. Also read | Not helping Ukraine 'target' Russian generals: Pentagon The head of the World Trade Organisation in conversation with Reuters said that she is “extremely concerned” about rising food prices and is working with other partners to find answers for the same. "It would really help the world if we could evacuate this grain (from Ukraine)," Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said. "There's a serious risk of food prices going up and spiraling out of affordability that could lead to more hunger." (With inputs from agencies) Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.

Nearly 25 million tonnes of grain stuck in Ukraine: UN food agency

More than two months have passed on, and the fighting in Ukraine rages on. In the latest development, Kyiv said that Russia has destroyed a Ukrainian museum with a missile strike.

Russia-Ukraine crisis: Russia destroys Skovoroda Museum with missile strike

On May 9th, Russia will mark victory day and experts have predicted a declaration of all-out war on Ukraine. However, Russia has dismissed these reports and called them nonsense. Moscow refers to its invasion in Ukraine as a special military operation.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Experts predict declaration of all-out war on Ukraine

President Zelensky has now confirmed that Europe is formulating the sixth branch of sanctions against the Kremlin. The Russian government is already facing a number of sanctions and now Italy seized a yacht that has links to Russia.

Ukraine war: West continues sanctions against Kremlin, Italy seizes Russian luxury yacht

Fedir Shandor has become a sort of an internet celebrity ever since his photo of giving lessons online while being deployed on the battlefield went viral.

Like many civilians, Shandor joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine at the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion that began on February 24.

Before that, he used to run a tourism company and teach at a university in western Uzhhorod city of Ukraine.

But all that changed when Russia’s Vladimir Putin started attacking its neighbouring country in a bid to overthrow the Volodymyr Zelensky regime.

However, as a professor, he hasn’t stopped giving lectures even in the trenches. He made an arrangement with his commanding officers and comrades to have a suitable duty roster to be able to hold lectures with his students.

The photo that had become was taken by fellow soldier Viktor Shchaedi. It purportedly shows the professor in army fatigues instructing students via video chat from inside a trench protected by sandbags, according to the New York Post.

The man can be seen with his helmet on and an AK-103 rifle at his side&nbsp;as he holds his phone in a bandaged hand.

“We are fighting for an educated nation.&nbsp;If I did not give lectures, it would be a sin,” Shandor said in a statement issued by Uzhhorod National University, where he teaches classes in tourism and hospitality.

“If there are sounds of shelling somewhere in the background, they do not affect the lecture,” Shandor said in the university statement.

It has been 70 days since he enlisted into the army and hasn’t missed a single class since then.

During that time, he said, he’s held classes at 8 am every Monday and Tuesday.

“I did not miss a single one,” he said.

“I always prefer morning classes: I read, and then you have time for another job,” he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-top-diplomat-hints-at-more-sanctions-even-as-agency-proposes-amendments-to-oil-embargo-against-russia-476959" hreflang="en">EU top diplomat hints at more sanctions, even as agency proposes amendments to oil embargo against Russia</a>

The university did not provide his exact deployment but said that Shandor is fighting in eastern Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-assures-it-wont-use-nuclear-weapons-in-ongoing-war-against-ukraine-476897" hreflang="en">Russia assures it won’t use nuclear weapons in ongoing war against Ukraine</a>

The eastern industrial region, known as the Donbas, has been host to the bulk of the fighting since Russia’s retreat from the outskirts of Kyiv in March.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Fedir Shandor has become a sort of an internet celebrity ever since his photo of giving lessons online while being deployed on the battlefield went viral. Like many civilians, Shandor joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine at the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion that began on February 24.

Fedir Shandor has become a sort of an internet celebrity ever since his photo of giving lessons online while being deployed on the battlefield went viral. Like many civilians, Shandor joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine at the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion that began on February 24. Before that, he used to run a tourism company and teach at a university in western Uzhhorod city of Ukraine. But all that changed when Russia’s Vladimir Putin started attacking its neighbouring country in a bid to overthrow the Volodymyr Zelensky regime. However, as a professor, he hasn’t stopped giving lectures even in the trenches. He made an arrangement with his commanding officers and comrades to have a suitable duty roster to be able to hold lectures with his students. The photo that had become was taken by fellow soldier Viktor Shchaedi. It purportedly shows the professor in army fatigues instructing students via video chat from inside a trench protected by sandbags, according to the New York Post. The man can be seen with his helmet on and an AK-103 rifle at his side as he holds his phone in a bandaged hand. “We are fighting for an educated nation. If I did not give lectures, it would be a sin,” Shandor said in a statement issued by Uzhhorod National University, where he teaches classes in tourism and hospitality. “If there are sounds of shelling somewhere in the background, they do not affect the lecture,” Shandor said in the university statement. It has been 70 days since he enlisted into the army and hasn’t missed a single class since then. During that time, he said, he’s held classes at 8 am every Monday and Tuesday. “I did not miss a single one,” he said. “I always prefer morning classes: I read, and then you have time for another job,” he added. Also read | EU top diplomat hints at more sanctions, even as agency proposes amendments to oil embargo against Russia The university did not provide his exact deployment but said that Shandor is fighting in eastern Ukraine. Also read | Russia assures it won’t use nuclear weapons in ongoing war against Ukraine The eastern industrial region, known as the Donbas, has been host to the bulk of the fighting since Russia’s retreat from the outskirts of Kyiv in March. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE

Meet this Ukrainian professor who gives lessons from front lines while battling Russians

Russia on Friday announced that it won’t be using nuclear weapons during its ongoing war against Ukraine.

Speaking to reporters in Moscow, foreign ministry spokesman Alexei Zaitsev said the use of nuclear warheads was not applicable to what Kremlin calls&nbsp;special military operation in Ukraine, reports Reuters.

On April 14, CIA director William Burns claimed that there was a possibility Russia could resort to nuclear weapons given the recent setbacks it suffered in Ukraine.

"None of us can take lightly the threat posed by a potential resort to tactical nuclear weapons or low-yield nuclear weapons," he said.

Notably, Russia’s foreign minister last week had warned that the risk of war could escalate into nuclear tensions if US and other allied nations intervene.

In an interview with Russian TV, Sergey Lavrov said NATO nations were "pouring oil on the fire" and risking "World War III" by providing weapons to Ukraine.

He said the ongoing arms shipments to Ukraine meant NATO was "in essence engaged in war with Russia" already.

The minister’s warning&nbsp;was&nbsp;in response to US and EU nations pledging military support during a special meet at the US Ramstein Air Base in western Germany on April 26.

Germany's defence chief last week Tuesday announced that the country would start sending self-propelled armoured anti-aircraft guns to Ukraine.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/two-ukrainian-sisters-manages-to-escape-mariupol-made-video-diary-amid-russian-shelling-476799" hreflang="en">&nbsp;Two Ukrainian sisters manage to escape Mariupol, made video diary amid Russian shelling</a>

Meanwhile, the Group of G7 leaders are expected to hold a video conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/war-torn-ukraines-president-wins-hearts-responds-to-a-uk-schoolboys-letter-even-amid-the-tensions-at-home-476679" hreflang="en">War-torn Ukraine's President wins hearts, responds to a UK schoolboy's letter amid tensions at home</a>

"The German chancellor (Olaf Scholz) will hold the third video conference since the start of the year with his G7 partners," German government spokesperson.Christiane Hoffmann told reporters at a regular press briefing in Berlin on Friday. Germany currently holds the G7 presidency.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.&nbsp;

Russia on Friday announced that it won’t be using nuclear weapons during its ongoing war against Ukraine. Speaking to reporters in Moscow, foreign ministry spokesman Alexei Zaitsev said the use of nuclear warheads was not applicable to what Kremlin calls special military operation in Ukraine, reports Reuters.

Russia on Friday announced that it won’t be using nuclear weapons during its ongoing war against Ukraine. Speaking to reporters in Moscow, foreign ministry spokesman Alexei Zaitsev said the use of nuclear warheads was not applicable to what Kremlin calls special military operation in Ukraine, reports Reuters. On April 14, CIA director William Burns claimed that there was a possibility Russia could resort to nuclear weapons given the recent setbacks it suffered in Ukraine. "None of us can take lightly the threat posed by a potential resort to tactical nuclear weapons or low-yield nuclear weapons," he said. Notably, Russia’s foreign minister last week had warned that the risk of war could escalate into nuclear tensions if US and other allied nations intervene. In an interview with Russian TV, Sergey Lavrov said NATO nations were "pouring oil on the fire" and risking "World War III" by providing weapons to Ukraine. He said the ongoing arms shipments to Ukraine meant NATO was "in essence engaged in war with Russia" already. The minister’s warning was in response to US and EU nations pledging military support during a special meet at the US Ramstein Air Base in western Germany on April 26. Germany's defence chief last week Tuesday announced that the country would start sending self-propelled armoured anti-aircraft guns to Ukraine. Also see | Two Ukrainian sisters manage to escape Mariupol, made video diary amid Russian shelling Meanwhile, the Group of G7 leaders are expected to hold a video conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday. Also read | War-torn Ukraine's President wins hearts, responds to a UK schoolboy's letter amid tensions at home "The German chancellor (Olaf Scholz) will hold the third video conference since the start of the year with his G7 partners," German government spokesperson.Christiane Hoffmann told reporters at a regular press briefing in Berlin on Friday. Germany currently holds the G7 presidency. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.

Russia assures it won’t use nuclear weapons in ongoing war against Ukraine

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban on Friday blasted European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen for "attacking"&nbsp;EU&nbsp;unity with a plan to&nbsp;ban&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;oil, saying it crosses a red line and has been sent back.

"The European Commission president, intentionally or unintentionally, has attacked the European unity that had been worked out," Orban said on state radio.&nbsp;

"From the first moment we made clear that there will be a red line... they have crossed this red line."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-destroyed-400-hospitals-leaving-patients-in-extreme-difficulties-zelensky-476697">Russia destroyed 400 hospitals, leaving patients in extreme difficulties: Zelensky</a>

On Wednesday the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;executive proposed to the bloc's 27 members a&nbsp;ban&nbsp;on Russian&nbsp;oil&nbsp;imports in its toughest move yet over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Von der Leyen said the bloc would "phase out Russian supply of crude&nbsp;oil&nbsp;within six months, and refined products by the end of the year".

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Fighting destroyed nearly 400 hospitals, medical centres, says Zelensky

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Hungary and Slovakia&nbsp;both highly dependent on Moscow's&nbsp;oil&nbsp;exports would have until the end of 2023.

The embargo would amount to "a nuclear bomb dropped on the Hungarian economy", Orban said, adding that the proposed exemption for Hungary until end-2023 is not long enough.

"The transformation of the Hungary energy transmission and supply system could be completed in five years," Orban said.

Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto in a video message posted on his Facebook page on Wednesday said Budapest would back the proposal if crude&nbsp;oil&nbsp;delivered via pipelines was exempted from the&nbsp;EU's&nbsp;ban.

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"I avoid the word 'veto', I do not want to confront the&nbsp;EU. We are interested in a constructive dialogue," said Orban, who was re-elected for a fourth straight term as premier last month.

He said the proposal "has been returned to sender, to Madame President, to work on further".

Orban also protested against the inclusion in the sanctions package of the head of the Russian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Kirill.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-helping-ukraine-target-russian-generals-pentagon-476727">Not helping Ukraine 'target' Russian generals: Pentagon</a>

"We will not allow church leaders to be put on a sanctions list," said Orban, who has cultivated close ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

According to Budapest, 65 percent of Hungary's&nbsp;oil&nbsp;and 85&nbsp;per cent of its&nbsp;gas&nbsp;supplies come from&nbsp;Russia.

&nbsp;

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban on Friday blasted European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen for "attacking" EU unity with a plan to ban Russian oil, saying it crosses a red line and has been sent back.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban on Friday blasted European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen for "attacking" EU unity with a plan to ban Russian oil, saying it crosses a red line and has been sent back. "The European Commission president, intentionally or unintentionally, has attacked the European unity that had been worked out," Orban said on state radio. "From the first moment we made clear that there will be a red line... they have crossed this red line." Also read | Russia destroyed 400 hospitals, leaving patients in extreme difficulties: Zelensky On Wednesday the EU executive proposed to the bloc's 27 members a ban on Russian oil imports in its toughest move yet over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Von der Leyen said the bloc would "phase out Russian supply of crude oil within six months, and refined products by the end of the year". Watch | Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Fighting destroyed nearly 400 hospitals, medical centres, says Zelensky Hungary and Slovakia both highly dependent on Moscow's oil exports would have until the end of 2023. The embargo would amount to "a nuclear bomb dropped on the Hungarian economy", Orban said, adding that the proposed exemption for Hungary until end-2023 is not long enough. "The transformation of the Hungary energy transmission and supply system could be completed in five years," Orban said. Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto in a video message posted on his Facebook page on Wednesday said Budapest would back the proposal if crude oil delivered via pipelines was exempted from the EU's ban. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: "I avoid the word 'veto', I do not want to confront the EU. We are interested in a constructive dialogue," said Orban, who was re-elected for a fourth straight term as premier last month. He said the proposal "has been returned to sender, to Madame President, to work on further". Orban also protested against the inclusion in the sanctions package of the head of the Russian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Kirill. Also read | Not helping Ukraine 'target' Russian generals: Pentagon "We will not allow church leaders to be put on a sanctions list," said Orban, who has cultivated close ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin. According to Budapest, 65 percent of Hungary's oil and 85 per cent of its gas supplies come from Russia.

Hungary says European Union Russia oil ban proposal crosses 'red line'

Zelensky and Israel's prime minister Bennett held 'fruitful talks' as Israel marked the 74th Independence day. Zelensky said Lavrov's Hitler remark is 'unacceptable', our correspondent Jodie Cohen sent us this ground report, take a look.

Zelensky-Bennett hold 'fruitful talks' as Israel marks 74th Independence day

The European space agency is ending cooperation with Russia on three missions to the moon. This comes as Russia continues its assault on Ukraine. On the other hand, Moscow has announced that it will be quitting the International space station.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Europe cancels joint moon missions with Russia

More and more countries have promised aid to Ukraine amid the Russian invasion. World leaders, politicians have been visiting Ukraine to show support. Meanwhile, the US, the UK, World Bank and others have promised financial, military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. Here’s a look at what’s promised to Ukraine and what’s it getting.

Support for Ukraine: What the world has promised & what’s Kyiv getting | Russian invasion

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky who has withstood the Russian invasion for over two months told a US magazine that Putin's forces made two attempts to storm the presidential palace within hours of invasion on February 24.

The Ukraine president informed that Russian paratroopers were involved in the operation.&nbsp;Zelensky told his wife and kids to flee as the guards shut off lights and armed everyone with weapons.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-seeks-33-billion-war-chest-to-support-ukraine-zelenskiy-wants-quick-approval-474837">Also Read:&nbsp;Biden seeks $33 billion war chest to support Ukraine</a>

Zelensky said there were gunfights around government quarters just hours after President Putin announced the "special military operation" against Ukraine.

Zelensky had refused to leave the Ukrainian capital even as reports claimed the US and UK were ready to evacuate the Ukrainian&nbsp;president.

On Wednesday, Russia said it had carried out airstrikes even as UN&nbsp;secretary-general Antonio Guterres was visiting Kyiv.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine-Russia conflict: Italy launches new measure to save gas

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Guterres also visited Bucha and a suburb around Kyiv where Russian troops allegedly committed war crimes even as Kremlin denied the allegations.

Ukraine said Russia has taken control of key villages in the Donbas region although&nbsp;the Pentagon said the Russian offensive in Donbass is going behind schedule.

As the war in Ukraine drags on, the UK said it will be deploying nearly 8,000 troops across eastern Europe as NATO expressed concern over Russian troops in Transnistria.

(With inputs from Agencies)

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Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky who has withstood the Russian invasion for over two months told a US magazine that Putin's forces made two attempts to storm the presidential palace within hours of invasion on February 24.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky who has withstood the Russian invasion for over two months told a US magazine that Putin's forces made two attempts to storm the presidential palace within hours of invasion on February 24. The Ukraine president informed that Russian paratroopers were involved in the operation. Zelensky told his wife and kids to flee as the guards shut off lights and armed everyone with weapons. Also Read: Biden seeks $33 billion war chest to support Ukraine Zelensky said there were gunfights around government quarters just hours after President Putin announced the "special military operation" against Ukraine. Zelensky had refused to leave the Ukrainian capital even as reports claimed the US and UK were ready to evacuate the Ukrainian president. On Wednesday, Russia said it had carried out airstrikes even as UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres was visiting Kyiv. Watch | Ukraine-Russia conflict: Italy launches new measure to save gas Guterres also visited Bucha and a suburb around Kyiv where Russian troops allegedly committed war crimes even as Kremlin denied the allegations. Ukraine said Russia has taken control of key villages in the Donbas region although the Pentagon said the Russian offensive in Donbass is going behind schedule. As the war in Ukraine drags on, the UK said it will be deploying nearly 8,000 troops across eastern Europe as NATO expressed concern over Russian troops in Transnistria. (With inputs from Agencies) Watch WION Live Here

Russian troops tried to storm Ukrainian presidential palace in early hours of invasion: Report

It has been 65 days since Russia invaded Ukraine and still there are no signs of a truce. Currently, the West is sending more weapons to Ukraine, but the question that arises here is, will arming Ukraine really help? To get more perspective, we're joined by James Schwemlein, Senior Director at Albright Stonebridge Group and Fred Weir - Russian Affairs Expert.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: What is West doing to end the war?

The Russia-Ukraine war has entered its third month. All hopes were put behind the peace talks but even that seems to be faltering at this point. Even after multiple meetings, Ukraine and Russia are not able to come on the same page, they both have starkly different demands

Russia-Ukraine conflict: No consensus amid peace talks

Russian attacks continue in war-torn Ukraine with its forces now targeting capital Kyiv again. In the latest, Kremlin fired multiple missiles into Kyiv on Thursday, the attacks took place while the United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres was visiting Kyiv.

Kyiv attacked after Guterres and Zelensky meet ended

Russian President Vladimir Putin has reacted to the British foreign secretary's comments and gave a warning. He said if countries intervene in Ukraine, they could face the same fate as Poland and Bulgaria.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Vladimir Putin warns of 'lightning fast' retaliation

President Joe&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;asked Congress for $33&nbsp;billion&nbsp;to&nbsp;support&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;- a dramatic escalation of US&nbsp;funding for the&nbsp;war&nbsp;with Russia - and the Ukrainian president pleaded with lawmakers to give the request a swift&nbsp;approval.

The funding request includes over $20&nbsp;billion&nbsp;for weapons, ammunition and other military assistance, as well as $8.5&nbsp;billion&nbsp;in direct economic assistance to the Ukrainian government and $3&nbsp;billion&nbsp;in humanitarian aid. It is intended to cover the&nbsp;war&nbsp;effort's needs through September, the end of the fiscal year.

"We need this bill to&nbsp;support&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;in its fight for freedom,"&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;said at the White House after signing the request on Thursday. "The cost of this fight - it's not cheap - but caving to aggression is going to be more costly."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-rockets-strike-kyiv-during-un-chief-antonio-guterres-visit-474784">Russian rockets strike Kyiv during UN chief Antonio Guterres' visit</a>

The United States has ruled out sending its own or NATO forces to&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;but Washington and its European allies have supplied weapons to Kyiv such as drones, Howitzer heavy artillery, anti-aircraft Stinger and anti-tank Javelin missiles.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr&nbsp;Zelensky&nbsp;hailed what he called "a very important step" by the United States.

"I am thankful to the American people and personally to President&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;for it. I hope that Congress will&nbsp;quickly approve this request for help to our state," he said in a late night video address.

Biden's proposal would also let US&nbsp;officials seize more Russian oligarchs' assets, give the cash from those seizures to&nbsp;Ukraine, and further criminalize sanctions dodging, the White House said.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia energy giant Gazprom lands record high profit of $29 billion in 2021

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That would include letting the Justice Department use the strict US&nbsp;racketeering law once deployed against the mafia, the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, to build cases against people who evade sanctions.

Biden&nbsp;also&nbsp;wants&nbsp;to give prosecutors more time to build such cases by extending the statute of limitations on money laundering prosecutions to 10 years, instead of five. He would also make it a criminal act to hold money knowingly taken from corrupt dealings with Russia, according to a summary of the legislative proposals.

The measures are part of U.S. efforts to isolate and punish Russia for its Feb. 24 invasion of&nbsp;Ukraine, as well as to help Kyiv recover from a&nbsp;war&nbsp;that has reduced cities to rubble and forced more than 5 million people to flee abroad.

Biden&nbsp;has already asked for record peacetime sums to fund Pentagon research and development, and efforts to counter perceived threats from countries including Russia.

The full package represents a fifth of pre-war&nbsp;Ukrainian annual economic output, and the $20&nbsp;billion&nbsp;US&nbsp;military assistance alone is about a third of what the Russian military spent overall last year, before the&nbsp;war&nbsp;began.

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A package would include food security assistance, economic stimulus for&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;and funding to use the Cold&nbsp;War-era Defense Production Act to expand domestic production of key minerals in short supply due to the&nbsp;war.

But the funding measure may face issues on Capitol Hill.&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;asked for $22.5&nbsp;billion&nbsp;in money for the COVID-19 response in March and Democrats with narrow control of the Senate and House of Representatives may push to have that passed at the same time as the&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;measure.

While lawmakers are broadly&nbsp;supportive of spending on&nbsp;Ukraine, Republican congressional aides said on Thursday that efforts to combine the&nbsp;war&nbsp;funding with the pandemic response could make it difficult to pass.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-rockets-strike-kyiv-during-un-chief-antonio-guterres-visit-474784">Russian rockets strike Kyiv during UN chief Antonio Guterres' visit</a>

"I don't care how they do it,"&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;said. "They can do it separately or together, but we need them both."

U.S. military aid to&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;has topped $3&nbsp;billion&nbsp;since Russia launched what it calls a "special military operation" to demilitarize Ukraine&nbsp;and protect it from fascists. Kyiv and its Western allies reject that as a false pretext.

The United States and its European allies have frozen $30&nbsp;billion&nbsp;of assets held by wealthy individuals with ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin, including yachts, helicopters, real estate and art, the&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;administration has said.

President Joe Biden asked Congress for $33 billion to support Ukraine - a dramatic escalation of US funding for the war with Russia - and the Ukrainian president pleaded with lawmakers to give the request a swift approval.

President Joe Biden asked Congress for $33 billion to support Ukraine - a dramatic escalation of US funding for the war with Russia - and the Ukrainian president pleaded with lawmakers to give the request a swift approval. The funding request includes over $20 billion for weapons, ammunition and other military assistance, as well as $8.5 billion in direct economic assistance to the Ukrainian government and $3 billion in humanitarian aid. It is intended to cover the war effort's needs through September, the end of the fiscal year. "We need this bill to support Ukraine in its fight for freedom," Biden said at the White House after signing the request on Thursday. "The cost of this fight - it's not cheap - but caving to aggression is going to be more costly." Also read | Russian rockets strike Kyiv during UN chief Antonio Guterres' visit The United States has ruled out sending its own or NATO forces to Ukraine but Washington and its European allies have supplied weapons to Kyiv such as drones, Howitzer heavy artillery, anti-aircraft Stinger and anti-tank Javelin missiles. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky hailed what he called "a very important step" by the United States. "I am thankful to the American people and personally to President Biden for it. I hope that Congress will quickly approve this request for help to our state," he said in a late night video address. Biden's proposal would also let US officials seize more Russian oligarchs' assets, give the cash from those seizures to Ukraine, and further criminalize sanctions dodging, the White House said. Watch | Russia energy giant Gazprom lands record high profit of $29 billion in 2021 That would include letting the Justice Department use the strict US racketeering law once deployed against the mafia, the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, to build cases against people who evade sanctions. Biden also wants to give prosecutors more time to build such cases by extending the statute of limitations on money laundering prosecutions to 10 years, instead of five. He would also make it a criminal act to hold money knowingly taken from corrupt dealings with Russia, according to a summary of the legislative proposals. The measures are part of U.S. efforts to isolate and punish Russia for its Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine, as well as to help Kyiv recover from a war that has reduced cities to rubble and forced more than 5 million people to flee abroad. Biden has already asked for record peacetime sums to fund Pentagon research and development, and efforts to counter perceived threats from countries including Russia. The full package represents a fifth of pre-war Ukrainian annual economic output, and the $20 billion US military assistance alone is about a third of what the Russian military spent overall last year, before the war began. WATCH WION LIVE HERE A package would include food security assistance, economic stimulus for Ukraine and funding to use the Cold War-era Defense Production Act to expand domestic production of key minerals in short supply due to the war. But the funding measure may face issues on Capitol Hill. Biden asked for $22.5 billion in money for the COVID-19 response in March and Democrats with narrow control of the Senate and House of Representatives may push to have that passed at the same time as the Ukraine measure. While lawmakers are broadly supportive of spending on Ukraine, Republican congressional aides said on Thursday that efforts to combine the war funding with the pandemic response could make it difficult to pass. Also read | Russian rockets strike Kyiv during UN chief Antonio Guterres' visit "I don't care how they do it," Biden said. "They can do it separately or together, but we need them both." U.S. military aid to Ukraine has topped $3 billion since Russia launched what it calls a "special military operation" to demilitarize Ukraine and protect it from fascists. Kyiv and its Western allies reject that as a false pretext. The United States and its European allies have frozen $30 billion of assets held by wealthy individuals with ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin, including yachts, helicopters, real estate and art, the Biden administration has said.

Biden seeks $33 billion war chest to support Ukraine, Zelensky wants quick approval

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met US secretary of state Anthony Blinken and US defense secretary Lloyd Austin in Kyiv, it was Zelensky's first meeting with the top US official since the invasion began in February.

'Grateful to POTUS and people of US,' Zelensky meets Blinken and Austin in Kyiv

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday renewed his call for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin to "put an end to the war". He was addressing a press conference held at a metro station in the heart of the Ukrainian capital.

"I think that whoever started this war will be able to end it," he said.

"From the beginning, I have insisted on talks with the Russian president," he said. "It's not that I want (to meet him), it's that I have to meet him so as to settle this conflict by diplomatic means.

"We have confidence in our partners, but we have no confidence in Russia," he added.

Russia-Ukraine War: Europe sent Weapons to Russia despite an embargo on arms shipment

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During the news conference, Zelensky repeated his warning that Ukraine would break off talks if Russia killed remaining Ukrainian soldiers in Mariupol.

Russia has already declared that Ukraine's port city of Mariupol was under its control. However, a last pocket of Ukrainian soldiers holed up inside a steel factory is resisting Russian attacks. There are civilians along with the soldiers inside the steel factory.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-restarts-attacking-mariupol-ukraine-soldiers-holed-up-in-steel-plant-473225">Russia resumes attack on Mariupol, Ukraine soldiers holed up in steel plant</a>

On Saturday, Russia resumed attacks in Mariupol. The city is important to Russia as it links Donbas region with Russia-controlled Crimea.

"If our men are killed in Mariupol and if these pseudo-referendums are organised in the (southern) region of Kherson, then Ukraine will withdraw from any negotiation process," said Zelensky on Saturday.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/missile-strike-kills-five-people-in-ukraines-odesa-says-official-473281">Russian missile strike kills five people in Ukraine's Odesa, says official</a>

He was ready to exchange Ukraine's soldiers defending the city "in whatever format" to save "these people who find themselves in a horrible situation, surrounded".

He said the "last contact" with the Mariupol soldiers had been an hour ago, he said, adding "today is one of the hardest days" since the start of the Russian siege of the city at the beginning of March.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday renewed his call for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin to "put an end to the war". He was addressing a press conference held at a metro station in the heart of the Ukrainian capital.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday renewed his call for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin to "put an end to the war". He was addressing a press conference held at a metro station in the heart of the Ukrainian capital. "I think that whoever started this war will be able to end it," he said. "From the beginning, I have insisted on talks with the Russian president," he said. "It's not that I want (to meet him), it's that I have to meet him so as to settle this conflict by diplomatic means. "We have confidence in our partners, but we have no confidence in Russia," he added. Russia-Ukraine War: Europe sent Weapons to Russia despite an embargo on arms shipment × During the news conference, Zelensky repeated his warning that Ukraine would break off talks if Russia killed remaining Ukrainian soldiers in Mariupol. Russia has already declared that Ukraine's port city of Mariupol was under its control. However, a last pocket of Ukrainian soldiers holed up inside a steel factory is resisting Russian attacks. There are civilians along with the soldiers inside the steel factory. Also Read | Russia resumes attack on Mariupol, Ukraine soldiers holed up in steel plant On Saturday, Russia resumed attacks in Mariupol. The city is important to Russia as it links Donbas region with Russia-controlled Crimea. "If our men are killed in Mariupol and if these pseudo-referendums are organised in the (southern) region of Kherson, then Ukraine will withdraw from any negotiation process," said Zelensky on Saturday. Also Read | Russian missile strike kills five people in Ukraine's Odesa, says official He was ready to exchange Ukraine's soldiers defending the city "in whatever format" to save "these people who find themselves in a horrible situation, surrounded". He said the "last contact" with the Mariupol soldiers had been an hour ago, he said, adding "today is one of the hardest days" since the start of the Russian siege of the city at the beginning of March. (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky suggests a meeting with Putin 'to end the war'

The Russia-Ukraine war entered day 58 on Friday. While Russia has denied targeting civilians, stories of grief are emerging out of Ukraine. Thousands of civilians were killed in Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine war: Inconsolable daughter crouches next to father's body

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