Russia-Ukraine War: PM Modi speaks to Putin; calls for cessation of violence

Russian President Vladimir Putin briefed PM Modi about the recent developments regarding Ukraine. PM Modi reiterated his long-standing conviction that the differences between Russia and the NATO group can only be resolved through honest and sincere dialogue. PM Modi appealed for an immediate cessation of violence, and called for concerted efforts from all sides to return to the path of diplomatic negotiations and dialogue.

"It would be difficult to guess in advance the nature of the conversation between Prime Minister Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The conversations will be around the situation in Ukraine today," Foreign Secretary Harsh V Shringla said.

Stating that the situation on the ground is difficult and is rapidly evolving, the foreign secretary said, "One important step we have taken is to pursue all universities in Ukraine to conduct online classes. PM Modi has specifically stated that the MEA should do everything possible for our citizens in Ukraine." 

The Prime Minister is scheduled to speak to Russian President Vladimir Putin shortly: Foreign Secretary Harsh V Shringla

He added, "At the CCS meeting, PM Modi has stated that the topmost priority of the government is the safety and security of Indian nationals including students in Ukraine."

United States President Joe Biden will address on Russia-Ukraine crisis at 11 pm tonight. 

Russian occupation forces are trying to seize Chornobyl. Our defenders are giving their lives so that the tragedy of 1986 will not be repeated. Reported this to Swedish PM. This is a declaration of war against the whole of Europe: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held telephone talks with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov on Thursday as Beijing walked a fine line calling for talks to resolve the Ukrainian crisis while refusing to criticise Moscow's special military offensive against Kyiv.

In a televised address, Russian President Vladimir Putin said his move to launch a military operation in Ukraine came in response to threats emanating from the neighbouring country. He also warned other countries that if they attempted to interfere with the Russian military operation they would see "consequences they have never seen".

China, while showing its diplomatic solidarity with Russia, which came under bitter attack from the US, the EU and UN Secretary General Antnio Guterres who sharply criticised Putin's action to send troops to Donbas region, continued to maintain its silence over Moscow's move to accord two separatist regions in eastern Ukraine, Donetsk and Luhansk as independent entities.

In his talks with Lavrov, Wang said there is a complex and special historical context of the Ukraine issue and the Chinese side understands Russia's legitimate security concerns.

Wang also reiterated that China has always respected the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries.

He urged all parties to completely abandon the Cold War mindset and strive for a balanced, effective and sustainable European security mechanism through dialogue and negotiation, official media here reported.

Lavrov for his part stressed that the Russian side was forced to take necessary measures to safeguard its rights and interests.

Defending Putin's action, he explained the evolution of the situation in Ukraine and Russia's position.

He said the US and NATO reneged on their commitments, kept expanding eastward, refused to implement the new Minsk agreement and violated United Nations Security Council Resolution 2202 (2015), state-run CGTN reported.

Putin's military action, however, dominated over an hour-long Foreign Ministry briefing, where Assistant Foreign Minister and spokesperson Hua Chunying sought to play down China's unwillingness to condemn Russia for the invasion.  

Instead Hua repeated calls for talks to resolve the crisis in Ukraine while accusing the US and its allies of worsening the situation. We call on all parties to exercise restraint and prevent the situation from getting out of control, Hua said.

Asked whether Putin's move violated Ukraine's sovereignty, she said, this issue has complex historical background and merits. What we say is the interplay of complex factors. China is closely following the latest developments.

We still hope that the parties concerned will not shut the door to peace and engage instead in dialogue and consultation and prevent the situation from further escalating, she said.

While China has not endorsed Putin's recognition of independence of eastern Ukraine's separatist areas or his decision to send Russian forces there, Hua said China called on parties to respect others' legitimate security concerns.

All parties should work for peace instead of escalating the tension or hyping up the possibility of war, she said.

Those parties who were busy condemning others, what have they done? Have they persuaded others? Hua asked and parried questions whether Putin's plans to send troops figured during the Russian President's meeting with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping.

While there is a sense of disquiet in China over the likelihood that the Russia's military action may spiral into wider war in Europe, there is also sense of relief here that much of the US and Western countries adverse attention against Beijing on a host of issue has been diverted against Moscow and may remain so for prolonged period.

Opposition to the US has drawn both China and Russia forming a formidable strategic alliance.

In her press briefing, Hua declined to term Russia's actions as an invasion or directly refer to the movement of Russian forces into Ukraine.

Official media reported that China's Embassy in Kyiv issued a warning to its citizens to stay at home and place a Chinese flag inside or on their vehicle if they needed to travel long distances.

On the trade front, China's customs agency on Thursday has approved imports of wheat from all regions of Russia, which observers say could help reduce the impact of Western sanctions against Moscow.

During his visit to China on February 4 to take part in the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics which was boycotted by the US and Western over allegations of human rights violations in Xinjiang, China and Russia jointly opposed the expansion of NATO amidst the Ukraine crisis.

Moscow also joined Beijing in denouncing AUKUS, (US, UK, Australia) as well as bloc formations in Indo-Pacific, a veiled reference against Quad, (US, India, Australia, Japan) alliance as China-Russia deepened the strategic alliance to push back against mounting pressure from the US and allies.

After their summit, Xi and Putin issued a lengthy joint statement in which they expressed their firm opposition to the US unilateral approach to resolve the global disputes.

"Some forces representing a minority on the world stage continue to advocate unilateral approaches to resolving international problems and resort to military policy, it read.

Earlier at the United Nations, China called on all parties involved in the Ukrainian issue to exercise restraint and avoid taking any action that may aggravate tensions.

"In the current context, all parties concerned should exercise restraint, and avoid taking any action that may aggravate tensions," Zhang Jun, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, told the plenary meeting of the 76th session of the UN General Assembly on Ukraine, the state-run Xinhua news agency reported on Thursday.

However, it is not clear whether Zhang made the statement after Putin announced the military operation in Ukraine, claiming it's intended to protect civilians.

"China has been paying attention to the evolving situation in Ukraine. China's position on safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states has been consistent. The purposes and principles of the UN Charter should be jointly upheld," Xinhua quoted Zhang as saying at the UNGA meeting in New York.

Zhang pointed out that at the same time, "we note that the issue of Ukraine is rooted in a complex web of historical and present factors. An interplay of those factors has driven the situation to this point. In the current context, all parties concerned should exercise restraint, and avoid taking any action that may aggravate tensions". 

(PTI)

President Biden met with his national security team in the Situation Room this morning to discuss the latest developments in Ukraine. He discussed how we will hold Russia accountable for its unprovoked and unjustified attack on Ukraine: The White House

In a massive development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to speak to Russian President Vladimir Putin tonight, according to sources.

"Right now, Putin is plunging Europe into its darkest time since 1939. Any government hoping to sit this out is naïve. Don’t repeat mistakes of the past. Hit Russia with severe sanctions now. Help Ukraine with military and financial support. Together we can #StopRussianAggression," Ukraine Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba tweeted.

"Ukraine's Defense Forces are holding back the Russian aggressor's offensive," said the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Lieutenant-General Valery Zaluzhny.

In the Chernihiv region, the enemy was stopped. Heavy fighting is taking place in the Kharkiv area and in the area of ​​the Joint Forces operation. 4 tanks of the occupiers were burned on the bypass road of Kharkiv.

The forces of our troops returned the city of MARIUPOL and HAPPINESS to full control. At least 6 planes, 2 helicopters and dozens of enemy armoured vehicles were destroyed. About 50 Russian occupiers were killed in the Happiness area.

The situation in the Kherson direction is difficult, but Ukraine's defence forces are repelling the aggressor

Working out modalities on how we can evacuate Indian citizens from the country through neighbouring nations along the western border of Ukraine. Times are uncertain and it's important to be calm. We'll continue to operate here till every Indian is back: Ambassador of India to Ukraine

Creating an anti-Putin coalition. Spoke with Ursula von der Leyen (European Commission Pres), E Macron (French Pres), Karl Nehammer(Austrian Chancellor) and RT Erdoğan (Turkish President) about concrete sanctions and concrete assistance for our military. Waiting for decisive action: Ukrainian President

UEFA has called an emergency meeting of its top decision-making body to discuss moving the Champion League final out of Russia after Moscow attacked Ukraine on Thursday.

The British government has been leading calls for the showpiece game to no longer be played in St. Petersburg on May 28.

The extraordinary meeting of the UEFA executive committee will be held on Friday in order to evaluate the situation and take all necessary decisions, European football's governing body said in a statement.

The Ukrainian Premier League suspended operations on Thursday due to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's decision to impose martial law. The league has been on a two-month winter break and was due to resume on Friday. It did not give any planned date to restart.

The International Paralympic Committee said it was in talks with sports officials in Ukraine and Russia as their teams prepare to head to China for the start of the Paralympic Games next week.

"The IPC is in dialogue with both the Ukrainian and Russian Paralympic Committees ahead of the Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games," the IPC said in an emailed statement. "As a politically neutral organization, the IPC's focus remains on the upcoming Games rather than the ongoing situation."

Russia's name, flag and anthem are already barred from the March 4-13 Paralympics in Beijing over previous doping disputes. Its team is due to compete as RPC, short for Russian Paralympic Committee.

(PTI)

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has taken up with the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) the issue of safe return of the people of his state stuck in Ukraine.

The PMO has already initiated efforts for the safe return of all Indian citizens from Ukraine, including those from Uttarakhand, Dhami who spoke to officials in the PMO on Wednesday regarding the matter said.

The matter has also been discussed with officials in the Ministry of External Affairs, Dhami said.

Russian troops launched their anticipated attack on Ukraine on Thursday, as President Vladimir Putin cast aside international condemnation and sanctions and warned other countries that any attempt to interfere would lead to consequences they had "never seen".

Big explosions were heard before dawn in Kyiv, Kharkiv and Odesa.

Parents and guardians of a large number of students from Uttarakhand studying in Ukrainian cities like Kyiv, Lviv and Kharkiv are worried about the well-being of their wards.

State Congress president Ganesh Godiyal has also written to the chief minister, urging him to ensure the safe return of the state's people stuck in Ukraine.

Talking to reporters here on Thursday, Godiyal said he had requested the chief minister to arrange out of the state government's own resources special planes if necessary to transport people of the state stuck in Ukraine. 

"However, I don't think they would do anything. They are insensitive people not bothered about matters of public concern," he said.

(PTI)

According to reports, a Ukrainian military plane with 14 aboard crashes near Kyiv. This development comes after Russia's invasion of the eastern European country.

A telephonic discussion with UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss. Exchanged perspectives on the Ukrainian situation: EAM Dr S Jaishankar

Investor wealth worth over Rs 13.44 lakh crore was wiped off on Thursday as the domestic equity markets tumbled along with global risk assets, after Russia launched military operations against Ukraine.

Amid intensifying rout in the global financial markets, the 30-share BSE Sensex plummeted 2,702.15 points or 4.72 per cent to end at 54,529.91.

The carnage on Dalal Street eroded investor wealth worth Rs 13,44,488.54 crore, taking the total market capitalisation (m-cap) to Rs 2,42,24,179.79 crore on the BSE.

The m-cap of BSE-listed companies stood at Rs 2,55,68,668.33 crore at the end of trading on Wednesday.

Traders said incessant foreign fund outflows also weighed on the markets.

On a net basis, foreign institutional investors sold equities worth Rs 3,417.16 crore on Wednesday, data available with stock exchanges showed.

Brent Crude oil prices surged past the USD 100-a-barrel mark amid geopolitical worries. Global oil benchmark Brent crude futures jumped 7.92 per cent to USD 104.51 per barrel.

"Equities witnessed a free fall with markets around the globe down more than 5 per cent, while Russian markets were down more than 30 per cent as Russia invaded Ukraine after weeks of conflict," said Siddhartha Khemka, Head - Retail Research, Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd.

Nifty saw a steep fall of 800 points as sentiments soured over intense military assault by Russia. Sellers outpaced buyers as volatility intensified on the day of monthly F&O expiry. All the sectoral indices were in red, with the majority of the sectors down almost 5-8 per cent.

"Sentiments took a hit with Nifty now down by 13 per cent from its high of 18604. Markets are likely to remain under pressure given the escalation of Russia-Ukraine conflict into a war-like situation.

"Any reaction from NATO / US armies is only going to worsen the situation further. Advice trades to remain with negative bias while investors need to keep calm and patience to tide over the current situation," Khemka added.

(PTI)

Tea planters and exporters are "extremely worried" over the possible impact on their shipments to Russia, India's second largest buyer of tea, in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine crisis.  

Western sanctions and disruption of payments in dollars as well as transhipments to Russia are expected as a fall-out of Russia launching an attack on Ukraine on Thursday.

"The Russian market for Indian tea is extremely important as there are payment issues for shipments to Iran, another vital tea export destination.  Around 18 per cent of India's tea shipments go to Russia," India Tea Association chairperson Nayantara Palchoudhuri told PTI.  

In the event of the conflict and possible imposition of sanctions by the US, exports to Russia would be "impacted adversely in the upcoming season", she said. 

Palchoudhuri, however, said that any significant shock to the tea industry due to the crisis may not be witnessed immediately as the season is about to begin and the bulk of shipments takes place between May and October.

Indian Tea Exporters' Association Chairman Anshuman Kanoria also said the industry stakeholders are "extremely worried" about the crisis.  

"There will surely be economic consequences for tea exports in the near term. The impact we have seen straight away is the fall in the value of the Russian Ruble by almost 15 per cent vis-a-vis the US dollar. When the Ruble becomes weak, the capacity of importers to pay also declines,"  he told PTI. The Ruble which was 70.43 to the dollar on October 24, last year, was worth 89.74 to the dollar on February 24, 2022.

Kanoria also said exporters are keeping a watch on how the war situation shapes up and the economic fall out of the crisis. Exporters also fear that payments which are usually in dollars may be affected if the US tightens financial sanctions.

Palchoudhuri pointed out that if shipments to Russia get impacted, an oversupply situation may arise in the domestic market, resulting in a price fall.

"Russia and Kazakhstan are the main markets in the overall exports to CIS countries.

Indian tea exporters while hoping that peace will speedily return are concerned about the impact on our tea exports of any possible economic retaliation by the West," Kanoria said. Exports to Ukraine are not significant with just 3-3.6 million kg being shipped out annually.

European Union and the US have already promised unprecedented sanctions to punish Kremlin.

Kanoria also mentioned that the cost of operation for planters and exporters is set to go up with increasing oil prices in the international markets.

Oil prices surged by nearly $6 per barrel Thursday after President Putin launched Russian military action in Ukraine. Brent crude oil jumped to over $100 per barrel on unease about the possible disruption of Russian supplies.

"With the inflationary pressure, exports will get impacted not only to Russia but also to other countries," he said, adding that "freight rates continue to be sky high and the war will add to shipping costs and logistic woes".

"Flow of cargo to Russia would be affected if the war continues and it appears that the crisis will sustain. Most of our shipments go via Europe. Usually, feeder ships carry our consignments to Sri Lanka or Singapore and from there, mother vessels pick containers up and take them to European ports.

"Then, the containers are transported to Russian destinations. If sanctions are imposed, this system would be disrupted," said a logistics expert who was associated with shipment transportation to Russia.

(PTI)

Embassy of India in Ukraine in its third advisory asks Indian nationals to head to bomb shelters if they are at places where air sirens/bomb warnings can be heard.

Government of India, Ministry of Civil Aviation has allowed passengers travelling from Ukraine to travel by transit under India-Qatar bilateral air bubble arrangement: Embassy of India in Doha, Qatar

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said, "Today, with our allies, we will agree on a massive package of economic sanctions designed in time to hobble the Russian economy. We must also collectively seize our dependence on Russian oil and gas that for too long has given Putin his grip on western politics."

Slamming Russia's invasion of Ukraine, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that it will not Ukraine's freedom to be snuffed out. He said that Putin's barbaric venture must end in failure.

North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) chief Jens Stoltenberg, addressing a press briefing called Russia's offensive "a long-planned invasion" and said that "Today North Atlantic council decided to activate its military band." He said that an attack on one will be taken as an attack on all, "this is NATO's collectively security." 

"We will shield all allies from Russia no matter what," Stoltenberg said.

"Today, we activated NATO's defence plans that give our military commanders more authority to deploy forces when needed. No NATO troops inside Ukraine. We are increasing the presence of NATO troops in the eastern part of all the alliance on NATO territory," said NATO chief Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg.

"This invasion doesn't come as a surprise, we had warned it for months, we tried to prevent it by warning Russia. Despite our diplomatic measures and warning sanctions, Russia has decided to go ahead with invasion," NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg

He added, "NATO stands in solidarity with Ukraine. NATO allies are imposing severe costs on Russia for their reckless invasion of Ukraine. NATO allies in close coordination with EU & other partners all over the world are now imposing severe economic sanctions on Russia." 

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said, "Democracy will always prevail over autocracy. Freedom will always prevail over oppression."

"We have over 100 jets at high alert protecting our airspace and more than 120 allied ships at sea from north to the Mediterranean. We will do whatever is necessary to shield the alliance from aggression. NATO leaders to meet tomorrow to address the way forward," he said.

The Ukrainian Premier League suspended operations as Russia attacked Ukraine on Thursday. 

In a brief statement, the league said the suspension was due to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's decision to impose martial law. It did not give any planned date to resume. 

The International Paralympic Committee said it was in talks with sports officials in Ukraine and Russia as their teams prepare to head to China for the start of the Paralympic Games next week. 

"The IPC is in dialogue with both the Ukrainian and Russian Paralympic Committees ahead of the Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games," the IPC said in an emailed statement. 

"As a politically neutral organisation, the IPC's focus remains on the upcoming Games rather than the ongoing situation." 

Russia's name, flag and anthem are already barred from the March 4-13 Paralympics in Beijing over previous doping disputes. Its team is due to compete as RPC, short for Russian Paralympic Committee. 

(AP)

NATO has agreed to beef up its land, sea and air forces on its eastern flank near Ukraine and Russia after Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a military offensive in Ukraine.

NATO ambassadors said in a statement after emergency talks Thursday that we have increased the readiness of our forces to respond to all contingencies.  While some of NATO's 30 member countries are supplying arms, ammunition and other equipment to Ukraine, NATO as an organisation is not. It will not launch any military action in support of Ukraine.

Countries closest to the conflict  Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland  are among those to have triggered rare consultations under Article 4 of NATO's founding treaty, which can be launched when the territorial integrity, political independence or security of any of the (NATO) parties is threatened.

We have decided, in line with our defensive planning to protect all allies, to take additional steps to further strengthen deterrence and defense across the Alliance, the envoys said in a statement. Our measures are and remain preventive, proportionate and non-escalatory. 

KYIV, Ukraine -- An adviser to Ukraine's president says that Russian forces forged 10-20 kilometers (6-12 miles) deep into the Chernihiv region of northern Ukraine and are regrouping to continue the offensive.

But Oleksiy Arestovich said Thursday that Kyiv is under reliable protection and they will face tough battles.

Arestovich said that fighting is going on 4-5 kilometers (2 -3 miles) north of Ukraine's second-largest city of Kharkiv, in the country's northeast. He said Ukrainian troops destroyed four Russian tanks there. 

The adviser said that Russian troops that moved into Ukraine from Russian-annexed Crimea are trying to advance toward Melitopol and Kherson.

JERUSALEM Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid has condemned Russia's attack on Ukraine as a grave violation of the international order. Lapid told reporters on Thursday that Israel is prepared to send humanitarian aid to Ukraine and urged Israeli citizens to leave the country.

Israel is a country well-versed in war. War is not the way to resolve conflicts, he said, adding that there was still a chance for a negotiated solution.

BUCHAREST, Romania  Moldova's president says the country's Supreme Security Council has decided to ask parliament to introduce a state of emergency following Russia's attack on neighbouring Ukraine. 

President Maia Sandu said Thursday that Russia's attack on Ukraine is a flagrant violation of international norms.  Sandu urged Moldovan citizens in Ukraine to return home. Moldova, a former Soviet republic and one of Europe's poorest nations, has a population of around 3.5 million and is not a NATO member.

There are now concerns in Moldova that the neighboring conflict could trigger an influx of refugees. Sandu said that at the border crossing points with Ukraine there is an increase in traffic flow.  She added that we will help people who need our support. At this moment, we are ready to accommodate tens of thousands of people. 

KYIV, Ukraine  An adviser to Ukraine's president says about 40 people have been killed so far in the Russian attack on the country. 

Oleksiy Arestovich, an adviser to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Thursday that several dozen people have been wounded. 

He didn't specify whether the casualties included civilians.

Zelenskyy said the Ukrainian authorities will hand weapons to all those willing to defend the country. 

The future of the Ukrainian people depends on every Ukrainian, he said, urging all those who can defend the country to come to the Interior Ministry's assembly facilities.

ANKARA, Turkey  Ukraine's ambassador to Turkey has called on the NATO member country to close its airspace and to shut down the straits at the entrance of the Black Sea to Russian ships.

We are calling for the airspace, Bosporus and Dardanelles straits to be closed, Ambassador Vasyl Bodnar told reporters on Thursday. We have conveyed our relevant demand to the Turkish side. At the same time, we want sanctions imposed on the Russian side. A 1936 convention gives Turkey control over the straits connecting the Aegean Sea to the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea, and allows it to limit the passage of warships during wartime or if Turkey is threatened.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan convened an emergency security meeting to discuss the Russian attack on Ukraine.

Turkey, which enjoys close relations with both Ukraine and Russia, had been pressing for a diplomatic solution to the tensions.

KYIV, Ukraine  Ukraine's president says his country has cut diplomatic ties with Russia after it was attacked. 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the decision to rupture ties with Moscow on Thursday after it launched a massive air and missile attack on its neighbor and Russian forces were seen rolling into Ukraine. 

Ukrainian officials say the country's military is fighting back and asked for Western defense assistance.

KYIV, Ukraine  A Ukrainian presidential adviser says that Russian forces have launched an attack on Ukraine from the north, east and south. The adviser, Mykhailo Podolyak, said the Ukrainian military is fighting hard.

Podolyak said Thursday that "our army is fighting back inflicting significant losses to the enemy. He said that there have been civilian casualties, but didn't give details.

He said that Ukraine now needs a greater and very specific support from the world  military-technical, financial as well as tough sanctions against Russia, he said.

Another adviser to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia has targeted air bases and various other military infrastructure.

BEIJING  China's customs agency on Thursday approved imports of wheat from all regions of Russia, a move that could help to reduce the impact of possible Western sanctions imposed over Moscow's attack on Ukraine.

The two governments announced an agreement Feb. 8 for China to import Russian wheat and barley after Russian President Vladimir became the highest-profile foreign guest to attend the Beijing Winter Olympics.

China's populous market is a growth area for other farm goods suppliers, but Beijing had barred imports until now from Russia's main wheat-growing areas due to concern about possible fungus and other contamination.

Russia is one of the biggest wheat producers but its exports would be vulnerable if its foreign markets block shipments in response to its attack on Ukraine.

Thursday's announcement said Russia would take all measures to prevent contamination by wheat smut fungus and would suspend exports to China if it was found.

BERLIN  Germany's foreign minister says that we woke up in a different world today. Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said in a televised statement that after months of preparing lies and propaganda, President Putin decided today to let his threats be followed with terrible deeds. Baerbock said that the Russian government is breaking the most elementary rules of the international order in front of the eyes of the world. Baerbock said German diplomats remaining in Kyiv would leave the capital. A decision would be made whether the embassy could resume its work from Lviv.

MOSCOW  Security camera footage shows a line of Russian military vehicles crossing into Ukraine from Russian-annexed Crimea.

Russian troops launched a wide-ranging attack on Ukraine on Thursday. President Vladimir Putin cast aside international condemnation and sanctions and warned other countries that any attempt to interfere would lead to consequences you have never seen. 

KYIV, Ukraine  Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is urging global leaders to provide defense assistance to Ukraine and help protect its airspace from the aggressor. Zelenskyy said Thursday that Russian President Vladimir Putin "has unleased a war with Ukraine and the entire democratic world. He added that the Russian leader wants to destroy our state, everything that we have built. He praised the nation's soldiers, hailing their courage and urged civilians not to panic.

We are starting the creation of an anti-Putin coalition, he said. I have already urged global leaders to slam Putin with all possible sanctions, offer large-scale defense support and close the airspace over Ukraine for the aggressor.  Together we must save Ukraine, save the democratic world, and we will do it, Zelenskyy said.

BEIJING  World stock markets have plunged and oil prices surged by nearly $6 per barrel after President Vladimir Putin launched Russian military action in Ukraine. 

Market benchmarks tumbled in Europe and Asia and U.S. futures were sharply lower. Brent crude oil jumped to over $100 per barrel Thursday on unease about possible disruption of Russian supplies. 

The ruble sank 7.5% to more than $87 to the U.S. dollar. Earlier, Wall Street's benchmark S&P 500 index fell 1.8% to an eight-month low after the Kremlin said rebels in eastern Ukraine asked for military assistance. 

Investors already were uneasy about the possible impact of the Federal Reserve's plans to try to cool inflation.

PARIS  French President Emmanuel Macron, who had labored until the last minute for a diplomatic solution, says that France firmly condemns Russia's decision to wage war and is promising support for Ukraine. 

Macron said Thursday that Russia must end its military operations immediately. He spoke by phone to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who demanded united European support for Ukraine, according to a statement from the French presidency.

Macron said France is working with its partners and allies to end the war. 

BUCHAREST, Romania  Romania's defense ministry says that two F-16 aircraft from the Romanian military on a NATO air policing mission intercepted a Ukrainian Air Force plane that had entered Romanian airspace, and escorted it to an airbase in Bacau.

The ministry wrote that the Romanian planes strictly applied national procedures and international rules applicable in such situations, through the interception and visual identification of the aircraft entering the Romanian airspace. The ministry said that the Ukrainian military pilot made himself available to Romanian authorities on Thursday morning.

BRUSSELS  The European Union says it is planning the strongest, the harshest package of sanctions it has ever considered at an emergency summit Thursday, as the Russian military attacked Ukraine.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that the target is the stability in Europe and the whole of the international peace order, and we will hold President (Vladimir) Putin accountable for that. We will present a package of massive and targeted sanctions to European leaders for approval, she said.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell called it the strongest, the harshest package ever considered.

COPENHAGEN, Denmark  The Baltic nations of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are condeming the Russian operation in Ukraine as a crime against Ukrainian people." In a joint statement, the three countries' foreign ministers condemned strongly "the open large scale Russian aggression against the independent, peaceful and democratic Ukraine.

They called it a blatant violation of the international law, of all international norms and a crime against Ukrainian people that we condemn. Finland's President Sauli Niinisto said the Russian move is an attack on the security order throughout Europe. ___

MOSCOW  The Russian military says it has knocked out Ukraine's air defense assets and airbases.

The Russian Defense Ministry said the Russian strikes have suppressed air defense means of the Ukrainian military, adding that the infrastructure of Ukraine's military bases has been incapacitated. It denied the claims that a Russian warplane was shot down over Ukraine.

The Ukrainian military, meanwhile, reported that it has shot down five Russian aircraft while fending off the Russian attack on the country.

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that he unleashed an attack on Ukraine in a televised address early Thursday, drawing international condemnation.

___

BERLIN  German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has sharply condemned Russia's attack on Ukraine calling it a terrible day for Ukraine and a dark day for Europe. The chancellor said Thursday morning that the Russian attack on Ukraine is a blatant violation of international law. It cannot be justified by anything.

He added that Germany condemns this reckless act by President Putin in the strongest possible terms.

Scholz said in a written statement that our solidarity is with Ukraine and its people. Russia must stop this military action immediately."

He added Germany would coordinate closely with others within the framework of the Group of Seven, NATO and the European Union.

___

BERLIN  The European Union Aviation Safety Agency is telling air operators of a high risk to civilian aircraft over Ukraine, reminding air operators that this is now an active conflict zone.

In the bulletin issued early Thursday, EASA said that airspace and critical infrastructure, including airports, are exposed to military activities which result in safety risks for civil aircraft. In particular, there is a risk of both intentional targeting and misidentification of civil aircraft. It added: The presence and possible use of a wide range of ground and airborne warfare systems poses a HIGH risk for civil flights operating at all altitudes and flight levels.

It recommended that, additionally, as a precautionary measure, operators should exercise extreme caution and avoid using the airspace within 100 nautical miles of the Belarusian- and Russia-Ukraine border. 

(AP)

Tokyo Paralympics bronze-medallist Sharad Kumar is tracking developments relating to the Russian military operation in Ukraine as he is worried about the safety of his coach Nikitin Yevhen there.

Yevhen is based in Kharkiv, the second largest city of Ukraine and around 500km from capital Kyiv.

"Just spoke to my coach in Ukraine Kharkiv, he is worried, he can hear bombing from his room, he is planning to move to his garage underground," Kumar tweeted.

Kumar had trained in Kharkiv under Yevhen for more than four years before winning a high jump bronze in Tokyo Paralympics last year.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday announced the launch of a military operation in eastern Ukraine.

Yevhen was earlier in India as a Sports Authority of India coach.

Sharad, who hails from Bihar and suffered a paralysis in his left leg due to spurious polio medication during a local eradication drive, is a double Asian Para Games (2014 and 2018) high jump champion and world silver medallist (2019).

He is included in the sports ministry's Target Olympic Podium scheme.

(PTI)

In a terrible confession by the Lieutenant-General of the German Armed Forces, Alfons Mais in what appears to be his LinkedIn page, the Inspector of the German Army admitted that he never thought he would live through another war.

The Inspector of the Army added that in the Bundeswehr (Army) that he leads, the situation is destitute while lamenting over the limited options and alliances present before him to respond to the situation. Notably, this is not in full alignment to Germany's stance in the war. As Germany has imposed limited sanctions on Russia and is yet to offer material or troop support to Ukraine.

‘Yesterday, we organised a “Day of Values” within the Army. At the heart of this day was the question – “why do we serve”? It’s never been easier to make that clear to the generation that didn’t experience the Cold War,’ excerpt of his statement read. ‘We all saw it coming’ his post reads as Alfons Mais explains that Germany and Europe were unable to make a fighting case even after learning from the Crimean annexation by Russia. Further adding that NATO’s territory is not under direct threat yet, he admits that Ukraine and its neighbours are feeling ‘constant and increasing pressure.’

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As per sources, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to hold an emergency meeting over the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The meeting would be majorly focused on the evacuation of Indians and students stuck in Ukraine as Russia launched a military offensive this morning. Sources have also revealed that the meeting would take place after 5 PM (local time).

Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Thursday received a call from EU High Representative of Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell. Both leaders discussed the "grave situation in Ukraine and how India could contribute to de-escalation efforts."

After Russia ordered military operations in Eastern Ukraine's Donbass on Thursday, India in its first statement said that the country was closely monitoring the rapidly changing situation. Thereafter, a high-level meeting of the Ministry of External Affairs took place, in which a discussion was held in relation to the contingency plans being put into operation. Given airspace closure, MEA has decided to activate alternate evacuation routes. Also, MEA has decided to send additional Russian speaking officials to India's Embassy in Ukraine. Also, in Embassies in countries neighbouring Ukraine. 

The Ambassador of India to Ukraine in a letter said," I am Partha Satpathy, the Ambassador of India to Ukraine. I am reaching out to you from Kyiv. Today early morning, we all up with the news that Ukraine is under attack. The situation is highly tense and very uncertain and this of course is causing a lot of anxiety. The airspace is closed, railway schedules are in flux and roads are crammed. I would request everyone to stay calm and face the situation with fortitude. The Embassy continues to remain open and operate in Kyiv."

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Just what a vulnerable world economy didn't need  a conflict that accelerates inflation, rattles markets and portends trouble for everyone from European consumers to indebted Chinese developers and families in Africa that face soaring food prices.

Russia's attack on Ukraine and retaliatory sanctions from the West may not portend another global recession. The two countries together account for less than 2% of the world's gross domestic product. And many regional economies remain in solid shape, having rebounded swiftly from the pandemic recession.

Yet the conflict threatens to inflict severe economic damage on some countries and industries  damage that could mean hardships for millions of people. Russia is the world's third-biggest producer of petroleum and is a major exporter of natural gas.

Ukraine's farms feed millions around the world. And financial markets are in a precarious spot as central banks prepare to reverse years of easy-money policies and raise interest rates to fight a resurgence of inflation. Those higher rates will likely slow spending and raise the risk of another downturn.

I wouldn't be misled by just calculating GDP ratios...especially at a time when commodity prices are already high, inflation is already high," said Elina Ribakova, deputy chief economist at the Institute of International Finance, a trade group for banks. It's a tricky moment now, given where the global economy is."

Russia's attack could slow Europe's economic recovery by sending already elevated energy prices ever higher. Europe, an energy importer, receives close to 40% of its natural gas from Russia. A cutoff of that energy source could undercut the continent's economy. High natural gas prices have already led to higher home utility bills  for both natural-gas heat and electricity generated from gas, crimping consumer spending.

Gas prices in Europe are already crushing households and consumers, especially low-income households," said Adam Tooze, director of Columbia University's European Institute, whose 2018 history of the last decade's financial crisis, "Crashed", explored tensions over Ukraine.

Costly gas has forced production cutbacks at producers of fertilizer and some other heavy industrial users. Annual inflation hit 5.1% in January in the 19 countries that use the euro, the highest rate since record-keeping began in 1997.

Escalating tensions put two cornerstones of this year's expected growth recovery  a rebound in consumer spending and a pickup in industrial activity  at further risk, Oliver Rakau and Mateusz Urban at Oxford Economics said in a research note.

Natural gas prices, which have tended to rise on crisis news, remain about four times what they were at the start of 2021. Russia sold less gas than normal on the short-term spot market, raising concerns that the Kremlin was using gas to press for approval of its Nord Stream 2 pipeline. The pipeline has now been frozen by sanctions imposed by Germany's government.

A mild winter and extra supplies of liquefied natural gas from the United States have helped ease some of Europe's jitters about a potential loss of Russian gas. Analysts say Russia has no interest in a complete gas cutoff, which would mean a sharp loss of revenue.

The threat to farms in eastern Ukraine and exports through Black Sea ports could reduce wheat supplies at a time when global food prices are at their highest level since 2011 and some countries are suffering from food shortages.

Ukraine is the world's fifth-largest wheat exporter, agricultural analyst Alex Smith wrote last month in the journal Foreign Policy, and many of the countries that rely on its wheat already face food insecurity from ongoing political instability or outright violence". Yemen, for instance, imports 22% of its wheat consumption from Ukraine, Libya about 43%, Lebanon roughly half.

Rising energy and food prices will intensify the inflationary pressures that policymakers and central banks are struggling to ease. In the estimation of Capital Economics, a worst-case scenario of an escalating conflict and sanctions could send oil prices up to as much as $140 a barrel  international Brent crude had surged above $100 on Thursday after Russia attacked Ukraine  and force natural gas prices up, too.

That combination would add a sizable 2 percentage points to annual inflation in the world's wealthy countries, Capital Economics estimates. In the United States, the world's largest economy, consumer inflation jumped 7.5% last month compared with 12 months earlier, the steepest annual increase since 1982.

With inflation running hot, central banks may have less leeway  or inclination  to ride to the rescue with stimulus if the economy sputters in the face of the military conflict in Ukraine.

The current inflationary backdrop suggests that policymakers have less flexibility than in the past to respond to a slowdown in real activity or a fall in asset prices, said Jonathan Petersen at Capital Economics.

Indeed, stocks have tumbled in anticipation of higher rates and a potential downturn. Market benchmarks in Europe and Asia fell by as much as 4% on Thursday, while Wall Street futures retreated by an unusually wide daily margin of 2.5%.

In the face geopolitical worries, Michael Taylor, managing director at Moody's Investors Service, warns that investors may flee to Treasurys and other super-safe investments, thereby driving up the relative credit costs for riskier businesses.

"Chinese property developers would be particularly exposed to this risk" as they try to roll over large amounts of foreign debt this year, Taylor said.

Financial markets could grow even more chaotic if the United States proceeds with what some call the nuclear option": Cutting Russia out of the SWIFT payment network, a messaging service that links thousands of banks and allows them to transfer payments around the world.

Such a move would isolate Russia and bar the transfer of profits from energy production, which account for more than 40% of the country's revenue. But shutting Russia out of international finance could backfire, too, hurting US and European companies that do business with Russian companies.

There is a risk for global finance as much as there is for Russia,'' said Ribakova of the Institute of International Finance. 

(AP)

Equity benchmark Sensex crashed over 2,700 points on Thursday following a severe sell-off in global markets after Russia launched a military offensive against Ukraine. 

The 30-share BSE gauge plunged about 2,850 points during the session before closing at 54,529.91, registering a massive fall of 2,702.15 points or 4.72 per cent.

Likewise, the NSE barometer Nifty nosedived 815.30 points or 4.78 per cent to end at 16,247.95.

This was also the seventh straight session of decline for both the indices.   

On the Sensex chart, all 30 shares suffered heavy losses, with IndusInd Bank, M&M and Bajaj Finance shedding as much as 8 per cent.

Russian troops launched wide-ranging military attacks on Ukraine on Thursday after Moscow cast aside international sanctions and warned other countries that any attempt to interfere would lead to "consequences you have never seen".

Globally, stocks plunged and oil prices surged by more than USD 5 per barrel amid intensifying Ukraine crisis, which experts believe may roil the global economy.  

Market benchmarks in Europe and Asia fell by as much as 4 per cent.

Brent crude oil jumped above USD 100 per barrel for the first time since 2014 on unease about possible disruption of supplies from Russia.

"Ukraine is under attack from Russian forces. The threat of severe sanctions on Moscow is now at its highest level, sending equity markets tumbling globally. Sentiment is driving market direction, which will lead to a large sell-off," said Leonardo Pellandini, Equity Strategy, Julius Baer.

Continuing their selling spree, foreign institutional investors offloaded shares worth Rs 3,417.16 crore in the Indian capital markets on Wednesday, exchange data showed.

(PTI)

The European countries of NATO - Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom, and the United States have come out in full support of Ukraine. The US and UK have emerged as the biggest supporters of Ukraine since the beginning of its tensions with Russia.

Germany and France had tried to defuse the controversy by making a speedy visit to Moscow, but after Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized two breakaway Ukrainian regions and ordered Russian troops to deploy there, Germany halted approval of the key Nord Stream 2 pipeline, which was followed by sanctions from other Western nations.

Japan, South Korea, Australia, Canada are also supporting Ukraine and have announced additional sanctions on Russia after it began the invasion of Ukraine.

Meanwhile, Russia is getting the strongest support from China which had already announced that NATO is doing arbitrariness in Ukraine. Ever since Western countries have turned their stance against China, Russia has supported its Asian neighbour.  

Cuba, a close ally of Russia, has sharply criticized the US for imposing the progressive expansion of NATO towards the Russian borders and called for a diplomatic solution to preserve international peace. Pakistan gets a special mention as its Prime Minister Imran Khan could think of no other time to visit Moscow but now when Russia is in the middle of a war against Ukraine.

Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Belarus once a part of the Soviet Union are expected to support Russia due to the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO) agreement signed between the six countries. However, Belarusian President Lukashenko announced on Thursday that Belarusian troops are not taking part in Russia's operation in Ukraine.

Speaking to Republic, Denys Antipov, Ukrainian Airborne Veteran, Lieutenant said there are some casualties among civilians, which are caused by Russian missiles hitting Ukrainian cities. However, he stressed that Ukrainian forces are fighting back.

UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss has summoned Russia's ambassador to explain 'illegal, unprovoked invasion of Ukraine'. Taking to Twitter, she said, "I have summoned the Russian ambassador to meet me and explain Russia’s illegal, unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. We will be imposing severe sanctions and rallying countries in support of Ukraine."

Although Ukrainians had been warned for weeks that war with Russia was imminent, when the attacks finally came Thursday many seemed not to know how to react.

Civil defence sirens wailed in the air of the capital, Kyiv, in the gray and drizzly morning, but the city's main street Khreshchatyk was a mixture of anxiety and normalcy.

The hotel where many Associated Press journalists stayed ordered an evacuation within 30 minutes. Upon checkout, the friendly desk clerk asked: Did you have anything from the mini-bar?

Outside, guests hurriedly loaded their hastily packed luggage into cars, while passersby walked dogs and occasionally waved at acquaintances.

Some had been awakened by the sound of explosions on the city's fringes, but others heard nothing. The mayor of Boryspil, the suburb where the capital's main airport lies, said some of the explosions were due to the shooting down of drones of unidentified origin.

I'm not scared at the moment, maybe I'll be scared later," said Maxim Prudskoi, a resident standing on Khreshchatyk.

In Mariupol, the Azov Sea port city that many fear will be the first major target because of its strategic importance and valuable heavy industry, AP journalists saw similar scenes of aplomb and fear.

People waited at bus stops, seemingly on their way to work, while others hastened to their cars to leave the city that is only about 15 km (less than 10 miles) from the front line with the Donetsk People's Republic, one of two separatist-held areas recognised by Russian President Vladimir Putin as independent this week in a prelude to the invasion.

As the morning progressed in Kyiv, alarm rose, with long lines of cars at gas stations and others heading away from the city. The city's extensive subway system was declared free for all riders and scores of people huddled with luggage in corridors, appearing uncertain where to ride to but comforted by the protection of being underground.

Kyiv Mayor Vitaly Klitschko called on the city's 3 million people to stay indoors unless they were workers in critical sectors and said everyone should prepare go-bags with necessities such as medicine and documents.

The ambivalent reaction of Ukrainians may reflect the frequent attempts by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to moderate expectations of aggression by Russia. He had argued that panic would lead to societal destabilisation that could be as much of a tactical advantage for Russia as the estimated 150,000 troops that had massed on Ukraine's borders since late last year.

We didn't believe this situation would come," said Elizaveta Melnik of Kyiv.

Zelenskyy's position notably changed on Wednesday, when Ukraine imposed a state of emergency that included possible restrictions on gatherings and limitations on vehicular traffic.

A day later, after Russian troops entered the country, Zelenskyy was imposing martial law. 

(AP)

Ukrainian MP Sofia Fedyna speaks to Republic about the situation on the ground and said, 'They started with bombing and shelling on military installations' while adding that 'Ukrainian citizens woke up with sounds of bombing'.

Image credits: AP

Ukrainian town wears a deserted look after evacuation due to Russian attack. 

As per reports, Russian airstrikes have killed at least 40 Ukrainian soldiers along with leaving several others injured. Additionally, Ukraine's general armed forces said that at least 4 tanks of Russian occupiers were burnt on the bypass road of Kharkiv. Moreover, 50 Russian occupiers were killed in Shchastya, the same place where Republic reported from just last evening. Ukraine even downed a sixth Russian aircraft as a plane was destroyed in Krmatorsk region.

In view of tensions in the region, Russia has suspended flights from at least 12 airports in the southern region of the country. Ukraine had previously shut down its airspace but Russia suspended the flights from the said airports until 2 March 2022. 

Meanwhile, DPR and LPR forces in separatist regions have launched counterattack against the Ukrainian military in Donbass

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has said that Berlin along with its allies is ready to impose 'the full package of massive sanctions' against Russia. Her remarks came after European Union (EU) chief Ursula von der Leyen also warned that similar measures would be taken against Moscow over military aggression in Ukraine.

Ukraine on Thursday scrapped diplomatic ties wth Russia as years-old conflict witnessed fresh escalation on Thursday with Moscow launching military attacks on major Ukarinian cities.

Several students from Gujarat who are studying in Ukraine have made a desperate appeal that they be evacuated, as Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a military operation in the east European country on Thursday.

While the Gujarat government has not specified the exact number of students from the state still stuck in Ukraine, Gujarat Education Minister Jitu Vaghani gave an assurance on Thursday that the Centre as well as the Indian Embassy in Ukraine were doing everything possible to ensure the safe return of the students.

"All Indian citizens, including these students, were already given emergency contact numbers. The students must remain in touch with the Embassy in Ukraine," Vaghani, who is also the state government's spokesperson, told reporters. 

Recently, several stranded Indians, including Gujarati students, were brought back in a flight, he said. 

"But, some Gujaratis could not board the flight at that time. Now, the situation is worsening there," the minister noted.

"I want to assure the students that their safety is the priority of the Indian government. Our government had evacuated stranded Indians in the past and we will do it this time too," he said.

The parents of four such students contacted Vadodara MP Ranjan Bhatt and sought her help.

"Four students from Vadodara were supposed to board a flight from Ukraine to Turkey. But, the flight got cancelled at the last moment and the airport was also sealed. These students were also asked to leave the airport. I have contacted the External Affairs Ministry and given details about these stranded students," Bhatt said.

Two other students - Bhavesh Vanzara, hailing from Arvalli district, and Harsh Soni, from Rajkot - are also stuck in Ukraine and they sent video messages seeking immediate help.

Soni in the video message said, "I am in the final year of a medical course. The situation is worsening with every passing hour. There are some others also like me who are stranded. I appeal to the government to do something and help us to get back home as soon as possible." 

(PTI)

As per reports, Ukraine said that it has killed 'around 50 Russian occupiers' amid ongoing war with Russia. Earlier Russian Defence Ministry had said that it had neutralised the armed forces in Ukraine after launching a military offensive early morning on Thursday (local time).

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is urging global leaders to provide defense assistance to Ukraine and help protect its airspace from Russia.

In a statement that comes amid Russia's wide-ranging attack on Ukraine that began early Thursday, Zelenskyy said that Russia has unleased a war with Ukraine and the entire democratic world.

He asked for world leaders to provide large-scale defence support and to protect Ukraine's airspace from the aggressor. 

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday wrote to External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar to intervene and ensure the safety of 2320 students from the state in Ukraine and also requested to make necessary arrangements for their return by arranging special flights.

Ambassador of Ukraine to India said "We have first civilian casualties even on outskirts of capital. There's fighting in some areas. According to info of our Ministry of Defence, Ukrainian side shot down 5 Russian fighter planes, 2 helicopters, we destroyed 2 tanks & several trucks".

Hailing India as a global influential player, the Ukrainian ambassador to India Igor Polikha on Thursday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi can convince Russian President Vladimir Putin. Polikha said, "Modi ji is one of the most powerful leaders of the world; I don't know Putin leaders to how many leaders, but I hope Putin listens to Modi; we are expecting favourable assistance from India". Ukrainian envoy also added that India must play a more 'active role' in the ongoing conflict. He even quoted Mahabharata to stress that diplomatic channels failed to prevent Russian military aggression.

The Five fronts of Russia's Ukraine invasion:

1. Fighting ongoing in pro-Russia separatist areas, particularly in Luhansk
2. Russian bombing and military movement in Kharkiv
3. From Belarus, north of Ukraine's capital Kyiv
4. From Russian-controlled Crimea, northwards
5. At Ukraine's Odessa port along the Black Sea

Ukraine's ambassador to India Igor Polikha said that "It's a case of blatant aggression which started at 5 o'clock in the morning. We have confirmed information that a lot of Ukrainian aerodromes, military airports, military installations were attacked by bombs & missile attacks".

"Some attacks happened on outskirts of capital. Some attacks happened deep inside the territory of Ukraine. We're getting the first information about casualties among our soldiers & among civilian population," he also said.

Belarus has denied any involvement in the Russia-Ukraine war. The reported remarks by Russia-s strong ally, Belarus came after the Ukrainian border guard agency has said that the Russian military has attacked the country from northern neighbour Belarus. 

Pledging strict reaction to Russia's military aggression in Ukraine, EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen on Thursday said, "Later today, we'll present a package of massive & targeted sanctions to European leaders for their approval. With this, we'll target strategic sectors of Russian economy by blocking their access to key technologies & markets".

"We'll weaken Russia's economic base & its capacity to modernise. In addition, we'll freeze Russian assets in EU & stop access of Russian banks to European financial market. Like with the first package of sanctions, we're closely aligned with partners & allies," she said while adding, "These sanctions are designed to take a heavy toll on the Kremlin's interests and on their ability to finance the war."

In a bid to help Indians and students stuck in Ukraine amid Russia's 'full-scale' attack, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) control room in Delhi is being expanded and made operational on a 24x7 basis. 

In a bid to repel Russian attacks, Ukraine has reportedly requested Turkey close Bosphorus and Dardanelles straits access to Russian warships. Meanwhile, Russia will be closing the shipping lane in the Azov Sea as crises continue to escalate in the eastern Europe.

Ukraine Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov has said on Thursday that 'anyone who is ready and able to hold a weapon can join the ranks of the Territorial Defence Forces'.

Several hours after Russia launched an offensive into its neighbouring nation, Moscow has now said that Ukrainian troops are laying down their weapons. It is to note that the latest remarks by Russia came after several have been left dead and injured in the face of Russian airstrikes. Earlier, Russian defence ministry had claimed that it had neutralised armed forces in Ukraine.

As Russia ordered military operations in Eastern Ukraine's Donbass, explosions rocked several Ukrainian cities. As is clear from the map, explosions have been reported in the capital city Kyiv, surrounding cities like Bila Tserkva, Chernihiv,  Zhytomyr, Kropyvnytskyi. Also, cities like Mykolaiv, Odesa, Kryvyi Rih, Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk, Luhansk, Berdyans'k, Kharkiv, Poltava, Sumy,  Vinnytsia, Lutsk, Ivano Frankivsk, Zhytomyr, have explosions resounding. Hundreds of Ukrainian service members are believed to have been killed in these explosions, Ukrainian officials say. 

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Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying has said that Beijing has been following the developments in Ukraine closely and called on all parties to practice restraint to avoid the situation from getting out of control, as per media reports.

Ukrainian ammunition depot destroyed by Russian airstrikes as Moscow continues to target the military establishments in the former Soviet Union member nation. Just hours after launching the military operation into Ukraine, Russia destroyed the ammunition depot in Ukraine. 

Amid the Russia-Ukraine war, Brent crude oil hit $103. Meanwhile, as per reports, the Moscow stock market plunged by 13.8% on re-opening.

Meanwhile, high-level meetings in the Ministry of External Affairs are ongoing along with putting contingency plans into action. Due to the present situation of airspace closure, alternate evacuation routes are being activated. It has also been learned that additional Russian speaking officials have been sent to Indian Embassy in Ukraine and are being deployed in countries neighbouring Ukraine. The Indian embassy in Ukraine is presently functional. 

Ivano-Frankivsk, a Ukrainian city that has now been hit multiple times by Russian airstrikes, witnessed a massive explosion on Thursday after being hit by a Russian missile. 

Vladimir Putin, the Russian president, announced a military operation in Ukraine on Thursday, February 24, and asked Ukrainian soldiers to lay down their arms and return home. "Our plans (of special military operation) in Ukraine do not include occupying Ukrainian territory. We will aim at demilitarization and denazification of Ukraine," he claimed. It might potentially spark a war in Europe as a result of Russia's demands for a halt to NATO's eastward expansion. Following the Russian declaration, explosions were reported in Kyiv and other places.

Here are the top ten key major developments that have taken place

Meanwhile, war-stricken country's residents were seen lining up in front of the banks in Kyiv as most of them were seen leaving the country.

Reportedly, Russian forces are already near one of Ukraine's major cities, Kharkiv, just hours after explosions were heard in the city. Kharkiv residents and people across Ukraine have been trying to flee the nation. 

Ukrainian Ministry of defence said, "According to the OOS command, today, February 24, 22, 2 tanks and several trucks of the Russian Federation were destroyed in the area of the OS, in the area of Happiness...The combined forces give a worthy rebuff to the armed forces of the Russian Federation. Military units in their positions."

Ukraine's Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Lieutenant General Valery Zaluzhny appealed, "We are on our land and will not surrender it together to victory!"

Reports have stated that at least 7 were killed and 9 were left injured due to Russian shelling on Ukraine on Thursday.

Ukrainian Interior Ministry has said that 1 was killed &1 was wounded in Brovary, Kyiv as Russia continues to launch an offensive across the nation.

Ukraine has said that 'enemy forces' have seized control of at least two settlements in Luhansk, Schastia and Stanytsia Luhanska.

The United States embassy in Kyiv has said that Americans " citizens throughout Ukraine are strongly encouraged to remain vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness."

"If you hear a loud explosion or if sirens are activated, immediately seek cover. If in a home or a building, go to the lowest level of the structure with the fewest exterior walls, windows, and openings; close any doors and sit near an interior wall, away from any windows or openings. If you are outdoors, immediately seek cover in a hardened structure; if that is not possible, lie down and cover your head with your hands," it said.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said, "The Russian attack on Ukraine is a blatant violation of international law. There is no justification for it. Germany condemns this reckless act by President Putin in the strongest possible terms. Our solidarity is with Ukraine and its people."

"Russia must stop this military action immediately. Within the framework of the G7, Nato and the EU, we will coordinate closely today. This is a terrible day for Ukraine and a dark day for Europe," he added.

Volodymyr Zelensky, President of the war-stricken country, Ukraine, has called for an "anti-Putin coalition". Taking to Twitter, Zelensky, said he spoke with US President Joe Biden, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Charles Michel, President of the European Council, Polish President Andrej Duda and UK PM Boris Johnson.

The Ukrainian parliament on Thursday approved the martial law after Zelensky announced the same in the wake of Russia's military attacks. Martial law is generally implemented in a situation of civil unrest or at a time when a national crisis is ongoing or the country is in a state of war. This clearly explains President Zelensky's decision to impose the Ukraine martial law as Russian troops have launched an attack in Ukrainian regions. 

In Thursday's national address, the Ukrainian President urged the citizens to remain calm, but he did not clarify the restriction that will be put in place. 

Earlier, a similar martial law was imposed in November 2018 across 10 regions of Ukraine following the increasing tensions with Russia. The law which was in force for 30 days banned all Russian civilians between 16 and 60 from entering the country, with exceptions for humanitarian purposes. 

As per reports, Ukrainian official has said that hundreds of troops are likely to have been killed so far as severe damage inflicted on several airbases across Ukraine.

Ukraine's border guard agency has said that the Russian military has attacked the country from northern neighbour Belarus. 

External Affairs ministry set up control room in New Delhi in view of the prevailing situation in Ukraine.
The control room will provide information and assistance. The contact details of the control room are 1800118797.

◾ +91 11 23012113
◾ +91 11 23014104
◾ +91 11 23017905

Additionally, media reports have stated that  Luhansk separatists have announced their intent to seize more territory a day after Putin declared the eastern Ukrainian regions 'independent'. 

While Russia's military has said that the Ukrainian air defence has been neutralised hours after it started launching attacks on major cities, Kyiv has flagged ongoing cyberattacks. 

As the Ukrainian military continues to repel Russia's attacks, Kyiv said that it has shot down a Russian aircraft. Additionally, Ukraine's forces said, "Today, February 24, at 5.00 am, the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation began intense shelling of our units in the east, and also launched rocket and bomb attacks on airfields in Boryspil, Ozernoye, Kulbakin, Chuguev, Kramatorsk, Chornobayevka, as well as on military facilities. Of Ukraine. At the same time, the aggressor began artillery shelling of the territory and settlements of Ukraine along the state border."

"The Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine is repelling an air attack by the invader. The state defense forces are in full combat readiness, have taken and are holding defensive positions. The situation is under control."

"Information about the landing of Russian troops in Odessa is not true...Let's win together!" the statement added.

As Ukrainian citizens are rushing to leave the nation, Belarusian soldiers have joined the Russian troops in its offensive against Ukraine.

Ambassador Igor Polikha of Ukraine has said that 'India has special relationship with Russia and New Delhi can play a more active role in controlling the situation. We urge PM Modi to immediately contact President Putin and our President Zelensky'. 

As the Russia-Ukraine war continues to escalate, the Ukrainian air force has been attempting to repel the air attacks by Russia. It si to note that explosions have been heard in the major Ukrainian cities including Kharkiv, Kyiv. 

US President Joe Biden on Thursday said that his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky "reached out" to POTUS. Biden said, "President Zelenskyy reached out to me tonight and we just finished speaking. I condemned this unprovoked and unjustified attack by Russian military forces. I briefed him on the steps we are taking to rally international condemnation, including tonight at the UN Security Council."

Zelensky also asked Biden to "call on the leaders of the world to speak out clearly against President Putin’s flagrant aggression, and to stand with the people of Ukraine. Tomorrow, I will be meeting with the Leaders of the G7, and the United States and our Allies and partners will be imposing severe sanctions on Russia. We will continue to provide support and assistance to Ukraine and the Ukrainian people," added US President.

Air sirens play in Ukraine after Zelensky imposed Martial law in the country as Russia launches 'full-scale' offensive against Kyiv 

The European Union (EU) commission chief Ursula von der Leyen pledged to hold Russia 'accountable' for 'unjustified' attacks on Ukraine. She said, "We strongly condemn Russia´s unjustified attack on Ukraine. In these dark hours, our thoughts are with Ukraine and the innocent women, men and children as they face this unprovoked attack and fear for their lives. We will hold the Kremlin accountable."

Russia's Ministry of Defence has said that precision weapons have been used to 'neutralise' Ukrainian military infrastructure and air forces. 

Panic-stricken citizens have been leaving the Ukrainian cities in the wake of Russia's military attacks but the Mayor of Kyiv called on residents to remain in their homes.

Ukraine has confirmed that Russia has carried out airstrikes on the military compounds, military depots, communication centers in Kyiv and Kharkiv. Additionally, the Ukrainian Interior Ministry says nationwide there are hundreds of casualties as a result of attacks. 

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said, "I am appalled by the horrific events in Ukraine and I have spoken to President Zelenskyy to discuss next steps. President Putin has chosen a path of bloodshed and destruction by launching this unprovoked attack on Ukraine.  The UK and our allies will respond decisively."

The Air India flight, AI1947 is coming back to New Delhi due to NOTAM (Notice to Air Missions) at, Kyiv, Ukraine.

Ukrainian FM Dmitry Kuleba called on the world to 'act immediately'. He said, "

The world must act immediately. Future of Europe & the world is at stake. To do list:

1. Devastating sanctions on Russia NOW, including SWIFT
2. Fully isolate Russia by all means, in all formats
3. Weapons, equipment for Ukraine
4. Financial assistance
5. Humanitarian assistance"

Russia has shut down airspace near Ukrainian borders for commercial flights as Kyiv airport was previously evacuated in the wake of Moscow's military aggression into Kyiv. Series of massive explosions have been reported from several Ukrainian cities. Videos have also been captured showing arms depot being attacked in Ukraine by Russian military.

At the UNSC emergency meeting, Ukraine said that it was looking forward to the next meeting of the council where a draft would be presented. Ukraine also said that it has asked UN chief Antonio Guterres to produce copies of the council and UN General Assembly dated 1991 that welcomed Russia's desire to be a member of the UNSC. Ukraine, additionally, also called on the world to 'rally and defend' Kyiv against Moscow. 

In view of Russia's fresh military aggression, Ukraine is reportedly set to impose martial law. It is to note that the law would be imposed after Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs Kuleba recently confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin has "launched a full-scale war" against Kyiv. Meanwhile, a series of explosions were heard from the outskirts of Donetsk.

As Russia began attacking Ukraine through a series of explosions, Turkish Airlines on Thursday cancelled flights to Ukraine as Kyiv airport is also being evacuated.

Ukrainian official has reportedly said that Russian troops are crossing the border towards Kharkiv. Meanwhile, Ukraine's interior ministry has said, troops from the Russian Black Sea Fleet have reportedly landed in Odessa.

Just hours after Ukraine shut down its air operation fearing Russian invasion, the airport in capital of Kyiv is being evacuated as Moscow launched a "full-scale" war on the former Soviet Union member nation.

Ukrainian defence officials have issued a warning that tens of more cruise missiles launched by Russian Navy ships & Russian Air Force Strategic Bombers (Tu-95MS & Tu-160) on their ways to several military bases as well as the capital city of Ukraine, Kyiv. Reports have also stated that amphibious landing ships of the Baltic Fleet of the Russian navy as well as their counterparts from the BlackSea fleet are approaching the coastal city of Odessa in Ukraine. They have hundreds of Russian Marines & their armoured personnel carriers & tanks onboard.

Ukraine's Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba has said that 'Putin has launched a full-scale war' against Kyiv. Taking to Twitter, Kuleba said, "Putin has just launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Peaceful Ukrainian cities are under strikes. This is a war of aggression. Ukraine will defend itself and will win. The world can and must stop Putin. The time to act is now." Meanwhile, Russian missile strikes continue on sites in Kyiv and Kharkiv.

As Russia mounts attacks on Ukraine, demonstrations started taking place in Kyiv against Moscow. 

The United States Senator Marco Rubio has warned that Russia is attempting to take control of Kyiv airport as Russian military began targeting Ukraine's Armed forced headquarters. 

Moscow has targetted headquarters of the Ukraine Armed Forces and several important military buildings in Kyiv by the Iskander-M tactical ballistic missiles launched by Russian Army.

Additionally, explosions were heard in Ukraine's city of Mariupol.

Issuing a staunch warning for the rest of the world, Putin said, "Anyone who tries to interfere with us, or even more so, to create threats for our country & our people, must know that Russia’s response will be immediate and will lead you to such consequences as you have never before experienced in your history".

United States President Joe Biden condemned the 'unjustified' attacks by Russia on Ukraine on Thursday. Biden said, "Prayers of the entire world are with the people of Ukraine tonight as they suffer an unprovoked & unjustified attack by Russian military forces. President Putin has chosen a premeditated war that will bring a catastrophic loss of life and human suffering".

"Russia alone is responsible for the death & destruction this attack will bring. The US & its allies will respond in a united & decisive way. The world will hold Russia accountable," US President added.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday said that 'they let us down by expanding NATO further east' 

In the latest escalation to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, explosions have been heard in the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv. Media reports have stated that blasts are being heard in several cities in Ukraine including Kyiv and Kharkiv. One of the journalists stated, "Two booms heard from my apartment on Khreshatyk, Kyiv in the past 3 minutes".

As Putin ordered the 'special' operation in Donbass region, media reports stated that blasts occurred in Kramatorsk, Ukraine. Russian forces have also entered Ukraine from Crimea in the south just moments after Kremlin leader said Moscow doe snot plan to invade the former Soviet Union member nation.

Despite signing a decree recognising the independence of separatist regions in eastern Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday reiterated his pledge that Moscow does not plan to invade Ukraine. The Kremlin leader said that the Russian military is taking measures to 'demilitarise' Ukraine. Additionally, Putin has also announced a 'special' military operation in the Donbas region in Ukraine.

Vladimir Putin has said that fighting between Russian and Ukrainian soldiers is 'inevitable'.  The Russian President also urged Ukraine service members to 'lay down their arms and go home'. He added that the Ukrainians who leave the conflict will be able to safely return to their families.

At UNSC, the United States said that Washington and its allies 'will continue to respond to Russia's actions with unity, with clarity and with conviction. We are here tonight because we believe that a further full scale invasion in Ukraine is imminent'.

'This is a perilous moment. We are here for one reason and one reason only, to ask Russia to stop, return to your borders, send your troops and your tanks and your planes back to their barracks,' US added.

In his opening remarks to United Nations Security Council meeting on Thursday, UN chief Antonio Guterres said that Russian President Vladimir Putin must 'stop' the troops and added, 'give peace a chance. Noting the warnings of 'imminent' Russian invasion into Ukraine, Guterres said, "In the recent past, there were several situations with similar indications, similar rumours...and I never believed in them, convinced that nothing serious would happen. I was wrong."

"I would like not to be wrong again today. So indeed, an operation is being prepared. I have only one thing to say from the bottom of my heart, President Putin, 'stop your troops from attacking Ukraine. Give peace a chance. Too many people have already died.'"

United Nations Security Council (UNSC) convenes for the second time this week over the Russia-Ukraine crisis after Putin's order over separatist regions in easter Ukraine. 

The Canadian transport authorities said on Thursday, "In response to increased risk in Eastern Ukraine, we’ve updated our #NOTAM to prohibit Canadian air operators and owners of aircraft registered in Canada from entering the Dnipropetrovsk and Simferopol regions of #Ukraine airspace."

"We also recommend that air operators not enter the rest of Ukraine airspace (Kyiv, Lviv and Odesa)," it added.

The Ukrainian government has ordered the closing of airports in eastern Ukraine from midnight to 7 AM (local time) due to a confrontation with Russia. According to PTI, Ukrainian aviation authorities also have declared some airspace in the east to be “danger areas” because of attempts by Russian aviation authorities to seize control of the airspace. It is to note that Ukraine acted after Russia issued a ban on civilian air traffic in the airspace over eastern Ukraine.

US State Department spokesperson Ned Price issued another warning about “Kremlin disinformation campaigns” and stressed that there is no evidence to state that Ukraine is committing genocide or conducting attacks in Donetsk or Luhansk, the separatist regions in eastern Ukraine. US State Department spokesperson said, “The Kremlin continues to create false narratives to justify invasion. It is fabricating supposed Ukrainian provocations in order to evacuate civilians from parts of eastern Ukraine.”

“Metadata from evacuation videos filmed by Russia-backed officials exposed they were filmed February 16, 2 days before the alleged attacks occurred. (February 16, not January 16)”, he added.

It is the responsibility of every “responsible” country to voice objection to Russia’s latest actions in Ukraine, said the United States as Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan travelled to Moscow amid the crisis. US State Department spokesperson Ned Orice on Wednesday said that Washington has informed Pakistan about its position on the crisis prevailing in Ukraine, especially after Russia stoked fresh fears of invading Ukraine. The former Soviet Union member, Ukraine declared a state of emergency on Wednesday and asked its citizens to leave Russia. Meanwhile, massive numbers of troops from both Russia and Ukraine still remain stationed at the line of contact in eastern Ukraine.

After Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree to officially recognise the independence of two separatist regions in eastern Ukraine, Donetsk and Luhansk, the West not only went ahead to impose sanctions on Moscow but also reiterated support for Ukraine. But, at the same time, Khan was seen travelling to Moscow to meet with Russian officials. However, Khan appeared to be snubbed by Moscow as the Pakistan Prime Minister was greeted by a junior minister upon his arrival in the foreign city. 

Reacting to Pakistan PM’s scheduled visit, Price said, “We've communicated to Pakistan our position regarding Russia's further renewed invasion of Ukraine and we have briefed them on our efforts to pursue diplomacy over war.”

Ukraine has requested an urgent United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Meet after Heads of the Ukraine breakaway regions, Donetsk and Luhansk, have asked the Russian President Vladimir Putin for help. Taking to Twitter, Ukraine's Foreign Minister, Dmytro Kuleba said:

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday called on French President Emmanuel Macron and said the discussions reflected the full spirit of bilateral strategic partnership. Jaishankar said in a tweet said:

In order to discuss the current situation and the recent 'provocative' actions by Russia against Ukraine, UN Security Council is to convene for a second time this week. According to ANI, the session is expected to begin at 21:30 EST.

Russia on Wednesday welcomed India's "independent position" on the Ukraine crisis and said its views on the issue at the UN Security Council was reflective of the special and privileged strategic partnership between the two countries. Russian Deputy Chief of Mission Roman Babushkin said India has been playing a vital role as a responsible global power and it takes an "independent and balanced" approach to world affairs.

The United States reacted to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's visit to Moscow by saying that it is the responsibility of every "responsible" country to voice objection to Russia's actions in Ukraine. The US has informed Pakistan about its position on the situation in Ukraine, the US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said on Wednesday. "We've communicated to Pakistan our position regarding Russia's further renewed invasion of Ukraine and we have briefed them on our efforts to pursue diplomacy over war," Price said during a press briefing when asked about Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's scheduled meeting with Russians President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.

(ANI)

The heads of the Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics (DPR and LPR), Denis Pushilin and Leonid Pasechnik, asked Russian President Vladimir Putin to offer help "amid aggression from the Ukrainian Armed Forces". Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Wednesday said, "Written requests have come through for Russian President Vladimir Putin from Leonid Pasechnik, the head of the Lugansk People's Republic, and Denis Pushilin, the head of the Donetsk People's Republic," he said. "The heads of those republics on behalf of themselves and their peoples express their gratitude to the Russian president for the recognition of their states," reported TASS News Agency.

The European Union has approved sanctions against Sergei Shoigu, Russia's Defense Minister, Maria Zakharova, director of the foreign ministry’s Information and Press Department, and Sputnik and RT Editor-in-Chief Margarita Simonyan, as well as 555 individuals and 52 entities, news agency Sputnik reported. Notably, inclusion on the sanctions list prevents entry into the EU and the freezing of assets in the region. It also freezes the assets of organizations included on the list.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a fresh appeal to Moscow on Thursday morning for dialogue to resolve the simmering crisis in the region, Sputnik reported. In a video posted on Telegram in which he spoke in both Ukrainian and his native Russian language, Zelensky claimed that there were nearly 200,000 Russian troops on Ukraine's borders and that Russia has approved an offensive against Ukraine. "Today, I requested a phone conversation with the president of the Russian Federation. The result is silence. However, the silence must be in Donbas," Zelensky said.

The Ukrainian Parliament approved on Wednesday a plan to increase the country's defence budget for 2022 by $314 million to $1.3 billion, in a session broadcast by parliamentary television. "The bill plans increasing expenses for Ukraine's defence. As such, it suggests increasing expenses for the budgetary program 'Development, purchase, upgrades and repairs of weapons, military equipment and materiel' by 9,096 billion hryvnias ($314 million) from 28.4 billion hryvnias [$980 million] to 37.5 billion hryvnias [1.3 billion]," an explanatory noted read.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a telephonic conversation on Wednesday where both the leaders discussed the Ukraine crisis and security guarantees between Russia and the West. They also exchanged views on the situation with Russia's recognition of the Donetsk and Lugansk people's republics. "Vladimir Putin stressed the objective necessity to take that decision based on the Ukrainian authorities' aggression in Donbas and their categorical refusal to implement the Minsk Agreements," Kremlin said in its official statement.

The United States ambassador at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Linda Thomas-Greenfield, on Wednesday, said that the Ukrainian crisis may lead to the worst refugee crisis in the world today, with some 5 million people possibly displaced. "If Russia continues down this path, it could, according to our estimates, create a new refugee crisis, one of the largest facing the world today, with as many as 5 million more people displaced by Russia's war of choice and putting pressure on Ukraine's neighbors," Linda Thomas-Greenfield said.

(ANI)

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with UK Foreign Secretary Elizabeth Truss on Wednesday, State Department spokesperson Ned Price said. Secretary Blinken condemned the Russian Federation’s decision to recognize the so-called “independence” of the purported republics controlled by Russian proxies in eastern Ukraine and send Russian troops to these areas as a “peacekeeping” force. They discussed the extensive bilateral coordination on developing and executing swift and severe economic measures against Russia. Secretary Blinken expressed unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and commitment to European security.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that he asked France for micro-financial assistance. Notably, France is the Council of the European Union."As a follow-up to the dialogue with @EmmanuelMacron. Thanked for the decision to provide individual defence equipment & demining systems to [Ukraine]. Urged [France] as the country presiding the [EU] Council to provide macro-financial support. Appreciate [France] for staying with [Ukraine] in hard times," Zelenskyy wrote on his Twitter.

The Kremlin said rebel leaders in eastern Ukraine asked Russia for military assistance Wednesday to help fend off Ukrainian “aggression” while Ukraine declared a nationwide state of emergency amid growing fears of an all-out invasion by Russian troops. Fears of an imminent Russian offensive against its neighbour soared after President Vladimir Putin received authorization to use military force outside his country, and the West responded with sanctions. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the rebel chiefs wrote to Putin, pleading with him to intervene after Ukrainian shelling caused civilian deaths and crippled vital infrastructure.

The White House says the request by Ukrainian separatists for Russian military assistance in the face of supposed “aggression” by Ukraine’s government is an example of the “false flag” operations the West has consistently warned against. The U.S. and allies have alleged for weeks that Russia would try to create a pretext for an invasion of Ukraine through the use of such operations. White House press secretary Jen Psaki says the Kremlin’s announcement Wednesday that the separatists are seeking help ”is an example” of such an operation. Psaki adds that “we’ll continue to call out what we see as false flag operations or efforts to spread misinformation about what the actual status is on the ground.”

(AP)

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Wednesday that Russian aggression toward Ukraine is “an attack on democracy,” vowing that the U.S. will stand united with its allies around the world in swiftly imposing sanctions on Russia and ensuring financial and political support for an independent Ukraine. Pelosi, who returned to the Capitol from a diplomatic overseas trip, compared the aggression to Russia’s intervention in the United States’ own democratic process during the 2016 election. “There will be a price to pay for Vladimir Putin,” she said, flanked by lawmakers who had joined her delegation at the annual security conference in Munich. Pelosi said the Russian president is one of the richest men in the world and warned that the sanctions being imposed by the U.S. and its allies are only the start of what is possible to inflict financial pain on his regime. “We’re doing this together,” she said.

(AP)

Dmytro Kuleba, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, at the UN General Assembly said Kyiv defends not only global security but also freedom, democracy and fundamental principles of international law. "We are currently in the middle of the largest security crisis in Europe since the Second World War. This crisis was created and is being escalated by one side unilaterally, by the Russian Federation," said the minister.

Ukraine has introduced a nationwide state of emergency amid fears of a Russian invasion, while Russia has started evacuating diplomatic staff from all of its missions in Ukraine, ABC News reported.

Kiev would be willing to talk to the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR) but can not do it because of pressure from radicals, DPR head Denis Pushilin told the SolovyovLive show on YouTube on Wednesday, news agency Sputnik reported. Pushilin also said that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy may be pushed to attack DPR.

The White House announced Wednesday that President Joe Biden is allowing sanctions to move forward against the company that built the Russia-to-Germany Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline and against the company’s CEO. The announcement is expected to come later in the day, according to a U.S. official who was not authorized to publicly discuss the matter before the decision was made public and who spoke on condition of anonymity.

The European Union is ready to respond with “severe measures” against Russia in the event of further escalation in Ukraine, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said on Wednesday after his phone conversation with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
 

Russia’s U.N. ambassador is urging the world’s nations to rein in what he called Ukraine’s ongoing violence and “blatant genocide” in eastern separatist regions of the country that Moscow has declared independent. The eastern Donbas region of Ukraine is a flashpoint in the tensions between Russia and Ukraine, as the United States warns Moscow is seeking a pretext to invade its neighbour. Ukraine has denied any aggression against pro-Russian forces in the eastern area, including Luhansk and Donetsk, that borders Russia. Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared those republics independent and plans to send Russian troops there as what he called “peacekeepers.”

(AP)

Minister of State at the German Federal Foreign Office, Tobias Lindner on Wednesday said Germany, France and Ukraine are open to holding another meeting in the Normandy format on Donbass, news agency Sputnik reported. "Ukraine, France and my country stand ready for another meeting in the Normandy format or for the summit that Ukraine has proposed," Lindner told the UN General Assembly.
 

Ukrainian government and banking websites have been knocked offline with another wave of distributed-denial-of-service attacks. The targets Wednesday included the defence, foreign and interior ministries, as well as Privatbank, the country’s largest commercial bank. Many of the same sites were similarly hit on Feb.13-14 attacks that the U.S. and U.K. governments quickly blamed on Russia’s GRU military intelligence agency. Such attacks barrage websites with junk traffic, rendering them unreachable.

European Union sanctions against Russia have come into effect. They are the first steps in a planned series of retaliatory measures devised to be cranked up if Russian President Vladimir Putin orders an attack or pushes his troops deeper into Ukraine. The sanctions that took effect Wednesday targeted senior Russian government officials, several companies and hundreds of lawmakers who voted in favour of recognizing the independence of separatist parts of southeast Ukraine. The sanctions are mostly a freeze on the assets of those listed and a ban on them travelling in the 27-nation EU.

(AP)

 Russia began evacuating its embassy in Kyiv, and Ukraine urged its citizens to leave Russia on Wednesday as the region braced for further confrontation after President Vladimir Putin received authorization to use military force outside his country and the West responded with sanctions. After weeks of trying to project calm, Ukrainian authorities signalled increasing concern. The Foreign Ministry advised against travel to Russia and recommended anyone there leave immediately, saying Moscow’s “aggression” could lead to a significant reduction in consular services.

(AP)

Amid mounting tension on the disputed regions, Russia's Ambassador to UN Nebenzia said at Least 96,000 People have evacuated to Moscow from the "so-called" independent states.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday condemned Russia and Ukraine at a media stakeout pressing for both sides to pursue a diplomatic path to the ongoing conflict resolution. “Our world is facing the biggest global peace and security crisis in recent years,” he warned nations worldwide. Russia Ukraine crisis, said Guterres, is testing “the entire international system" as he spoke at UNGA. 

“Our world is facing the biggest global security crisis certainly in my tenure as Secretary-General,” he stressed. He further added that the world “must pass this test.” UN chief informed that he had to cut short an overseas visit that included “a very important summit of African leaders”.

“We face a moment that I sincerely hoped would not come,” lamented UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres during his speech on Wednesday. “This is high time for de-escalation. This is high time to return to dialogue and negotiation,” he stated. Further, he warned: “I think the present crisis will be in the end terribly detrimental both to Ukraine and to the Russian Federation.” 

 UN Chief rejected the term ‘peacekeeping’ force used by Moscow for its troops, as he reminded, UN Peacekeeping operations across nations worldwide was carried out by soldiers in Blue Helmets, who, he said, “have sacrificed their lives to protect civilians.” “When troops of one country enter the territory of another country without its consent, they are not impartial peacekeepers,” asserted UN chief. “They are not peacekeepers at all,” he iterated. 

“Let me be clear: The decision of the Russian Federation to recognize the so-called ‘independence’ of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions is a violation of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine”, spelled out the top UN official.

“We are continuing to support the people of Ukraine through our humanitarian operations and human rights efforts,” he said. UN Chief ordered an immediate ceasefire and the re-establishment of the rule of law to be adhered by both Russia and Ukraine. “I urge all to refrain from actions and statements that would take this dangerous situation over the brink,” he said. “It is high time.” 

Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has denounced Russian and expressed "deep regret" towards its latest actions for ordering troops into two separatist regions in eastern Ukraine. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Joanne Ou told reporters Russia violated the United Nations Charter, and Minks agreement, and has undermined efforts to seek a diplomatic resolution.

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs once again calls on all parties to respect Ukraine's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and opposes unilateral changes to the status quo by force or coercion," she said.

Ukrainian Minister of Defense Oleksii Reznikov said that Ukrainian forces “remain confident and calm,” as bilateral tensions between Moscow and Kyiv deteriorated to an all-time low. "We are ready and able to defend ourselves and our sovereignty," he added.

Former US President Donald Trump stirred a controversy after he glorified Kremlin’s aggression against Kyiv, and called Russian leader Putin ‘genius’. Republican and Democratic critics slammed the ex-US leader for hailing Washington’s ‘enemies’ despite that he was commander in chief for the United States armed forces. 

Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) lambasted Trump on Twitter saying such “adulation” of Russian President Vladimir Putin “aids our enemies.” In a TV interview with “The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show,” Trump had said that he was “impressed” with Putin’s act of recognizing two breakaway oblasts in eastern Ukraine. 

“I went in yesterday and there was a television screen, and I said, ‘This is genius,’" Trump said. “So, Putin is now saying, ‘It’s independent,’ a large section of Ukraine. I said, ‘How smart is that?’” he added.

Washington’s lawmaker, Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-Ill.) took to Twitter to slam Trump’s stance on Russia as he wrote: “Trump is a sick man.” 

Jen Psaki, Biden’s press secretary told reporters at daily briefing: “As a matter of policy, we try not to take advice from anyone who praises President Putin and his military strategy.”

EU on Wednesday announced that it is poised to impose a sanctions package that will target Russian banks and top oligarchs over the latter’s recognition of Ukrainian separatist regions. French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, in a statement said, that EU sanctions against Moscow have been "unanimously agreed to" by the bloc's top diplomats including EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell.

EU’s economic sanctions and penalties "will hurt Russia, and it will hurt a lot” said Borrell, deriding Russian leader Putin’s decrees that mobilized troops into the breakaway provinces inside eastern Ukraine. 

As many as 351 Russian lawmakers voted in favour of the recognition of the separatist region of Donetsk and Luhansk in the Russian Duma. EU's initial set of sanction is expected to target Russian officials among those involved in this decision-making. The sanctions package has been coordinated with the US, the UK, and Canada. EU’s foreign ministers met in Brussels, as the Russian president Vladimir Putin presided powerful national security council meeting in Moscow. 

EU asserted that Russia de-facto nullified the 2015 Minsk peace accords and has torpedoed all diplomatic channels to avert a war. Europe then sat down a meeting to hit Russia with  ‘clear and fast sanctions’ in retaliation to Moscow’s “illegal act” of recognizing Donetsk and Luhansk.

As the Russian embassy in Kyiv, consulates in Kharkiv, Odesa, and Lviv, and diplomatic facilities in other locations started the evacuation of its staff, it informed that the move was aimed at “protecting lives” of the Russian diplomatic staff in Ukraine. the efforts came after the US, UK, and NATO declared that a form of Russian invasion had begun, and the pro-Russia rebels accused Ukraine Army of shortly launching an all-out offensive in the breakaway oblasts in the eastern flank of Kyiv. 

“To protect the lives and safety (of diplomats), the Russian leadership decided to evacuate the personnel of Russian foreign missions in Ukraine, which will be implemented in the near future,” Moscow’s foreign ministry said in a statement.

The embassy claimed that Russian diplomats in Kyiv received threats and that the consulates have been under “repeated attacks” by the rebel Ukrainians. The claims about the nature of the threat could not be immediately verified. “Ukraine has plunged deeper into chaos,” the statement read. Several Western nations earlier relocated their embassies from Kyiv to the city of Lviv near the Polish border. The move came after the Russian Duma’s members of the upper house, the Federation Council, voted unanimously to send the troops that they call ‘peacekeepers’ to eastern Ukraine’s Donbas region.

Russia’s state Tass news agency reported Wednesday that Russia has started evacuating personnel from all of its diplomatic facilities in Ukraine.

Moscow has an embassy in Kyiv and consulates in Kharkiv, Odesa and Lviv. The Tass report said the embassy in Kyiv confirmed the evacuations have begun. An Associated Press photographer in Kyiv saw the flag was no longer flying over the embassy building in Kyiv.

[Source: AP]

The situation along the contact line in eastern Ukraine deteriorated on Wednesday as Donbas is on the brink of war, leader of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR). Pro Russia leaders of Donetsk and Lugansk reported incidents of continued shelling, that they blamed on the Ukrainian forces.  "Regrettably, yes," Denis Pushilin, head of the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) said in an interview with the Rossiya-24 television channel responding to whether the situation in Donbas was edging closer to “a large-scale war.” He claimed that Ukrainian Army was slated to launch an all-out offensive against the Russian-backed forces.

"The enemy is aggressive. At any moment, Ukraine could stage an offensive", Pushilin told reporters on Wednesday. 

As the Russia-Ukraine conflict intensifies, Republic Media Network is bringing in live reports from Hoptivka-Belgorod to provide the on-ground details of what is happening at the borders. As per the latest satellite images accessed by Republic, Russian troops have already encroached into and are stationed in Ukraine's eastern region, even as US President Biden repositions American troops in the Baltic countries neighbouring Russia and reassures that he'll strengthen NATO.

Though the movement of troops has been observed near the borders, both Ukraine and Russia have not openly announced a war. A war-like situation erupted after Russia decided to recognize two breakaway regions in eastern Ukraine as independent and ordered its army to launch a “peacekeeping operation” into the area, even as Republic's on-ground coverage showed how Ukrainian shelling has led to civilian lives being lost in the breakaway Donbass.

READ MORE HERE

Pope Francis on Wednesday urged all sides in Russia-Ukraine conflict to have serious dialogue as he said that a war in Ukraine ‘will be madness.’ During his address on Wednesday, Francis thanked the participants of January 26 international day of prayer for peace in Kyiv. He asked those involved in the Ukrainian crisis “to examine their consciences before God and pull back from threats of war.” Ukraine’s Eastern-rite Catholics stated that they had invited Pope to Ukraine as the gesture would help restore peace in the disputes ridden region. 

“Let us continue to beg the God of peace so that the tensions and threats of war can be overcome through a serious dialogue and that the Normandy Format talks can contribute to this aim,” said Pope Francis. “And let’s not forget. War is madness,” he added. 

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said Wednesday that China opposes new sanctions on Russia, reiterating longstanding support to Russia's leader Vladimir Putin. Beijing further lambasted the United States for creating “fear and panic” over Russia Ukraine and flaring the regional conflict. Chinese officials blamed Washington for fueling tensions between the two sides. She accused the US of provocations by supplying military weapons to Kyiv. 

US actions “are raising tensions, creating panic, and even playing up the schedule of war,” foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told reporters in China. China had “called on all parties to respect and attach importance to each other’s legitimate security concerns, strive to resolve issues through negotiation and consultation, and jointly maintain regional peace and stability," said Hua. 

“If someone is adding fuel to the fire while blaming others ... then that behavior is irresponsible and immoral,” she added laying blame on the United States for the Russian Ukrainian conflict.

China's official was responding to a question on China’s role in resolving the situation at a press conference. Hua iterated that “sanctions have never been a fundamental and effective way to solve problems.”

UK's Foreign Secretary Liz Truss on Wednesday announced Britain's commitment to Kyiv's security as she guaranteed up to $500 million in loans to mitigate the economic effects of Russian aggression. UK pledged to offer guarantees of Multilateral Development Bank (MDB) lending for projects that will support economic stability and vital reforms such as tackling anti-corruption. 

Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said:

"We are putting our money where our mouth is and using Britain’s economic expertise and strength to support the people of Ukraine. These guarantees can help inject vital capital into Ukraine and help its economy weather the storm of Russian aggression."

"Britain stands four-square behind Ukraine and its people. We stand ready to offer direct economic support, providing defensive weapons, and exposing Russian attempts to engineer fake pretexts for invasion."

Ukraine's government is preparing to impose a state of emergency on all of its territory. Breakaway oblasts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions will be exempt, Former People's Deputy of Ukraine, Oleksiy Danilov reportedly said. The emergency will last for 30 days initially but later will be extended for another 30 days if required, he said. A vote will be held in Ukraine’s parliament for the approval. 

In an urgent advisory, Ukraine on Wednesday asked Kyiv nationals residing in Moscow to ‘immediately’ exit the country. Citing the looming threat of an armed Russian invasion that could disrupt the provisions of consular services and assistance to the Ukrainian nationals, Kyiv's Foreign Ministry said in a statement:

"Because of the escalating Russian aggression against Ukraine, which can lead to a substantial reduction in possible consular assistance in Russia, the foreign ministry urges the citizens of Ukraine to refrain from travel to Russia, and for those in that country to leave its territory, immediately."

READ FULL STORY HERE

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed decrees recognizing Ukraine's regions as "Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics" as "independent", which forced the United States to take hard steps against Moscow.

The Biden administration on Tuesday announced a raft of new sanctions on Russia that would cut off the United States and Europe from providing any sort of funds to Russia.

Indian-American economic advisor, Daleep Singh, is playing a key role in the Biden administration's decision to impose tough economic sanctions on Moscow. White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said that Daleep Singh is "back by popular demand" given the key role in his Russian policy of the administration.

"Russia's long-awaited invasion of Ukraine has begun and so too has our response. Today, the president (Joe Biden) responded swiftly and in lockstep with allies and partners. The speed and coordination were historic. It took weeks and months to mount a decisive response," Singh told reporters in his opening remarks.

He stated that after discussing the matter overnight with Germany, Russia's Nord Stream II natural gas pipelines will not become operational. "That is a USD 11 billion investment in a prized gas pipeline controlled by Russia that will now go to waste, and it sacrifices what would have been a cash cow for Russia's coffers," he added.

Read more

As the US on Tuesday imposed targeted sanctions on the Russian economy and oligarchs in response to unilateral recognition of two breakaway regions of Ukraine by Moscow, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba termed US President Joe Biden's decision as a "strong first move" against Russia. Welcoming the "first tranche" of financial penalties on Russian entities by the US and four other nations, Kuleba also urged Ukrainian allies to "punish" Russia for stirring up the already volatile situation in eastern Europe. 

"Hit Russia's economy now and hit it hard," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on Wednesday, as quoted by PTI.

At least 5 nations, including Japan, Australia, Canada, Germany, and the US have imposed financial sanctions against Russia in a bid to quell the aggravated tensions between Moscow and Kyiv. It is to mention that the prolonged standoff between the ex-Soviet nation and Moscow has grasped the West after it dramatically escalated after Putin deployed additional "peacekeeping" forces into the rebel-held regions of LPR and DPR (jointly known as Donbass republics.) 

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The crisis in Ukraine might be settled by demilitarising the country and rejecting NATO membership, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on February 23. Speaking to the media after discussions with Azerbaijani counterpart Ilham Aliyev, the Russian President added that Moscow will offer military assistance to the People's Republics of Donetsk and Luhansk (DPR and LPR). Putin also said that the deployment of forces in Donbass will not be announced for the time being.  

"The first thing that everybody must do is to recognise the will of the people who live in Sevastopol and in Crimea," he stated while speaking to the media.

Following that, he added, Moscow offers Ukraine the opportunity to voluntarily abandon its plans to join NATO. He went on to say that Russia asks the West to stop supplying modern armaments to the existing Kyiv administration.

Therefore, the main point - is the demilitarization of modern Ukraine to a certain degree, because this is the only objectively controllable factor, which could be supervised and which could be reacted to," Putin added.

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Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro announces his support for Vladimir Putin; he said, "West plans to 'surround Russia militarily and strategically." Previously, he had stated, "Venezuela will expand cooperation with Russia in the military sphere to defend peace and its sovereignty."

Citing the likely Russian invasion, Ukraine has urged its citizens to leave Russia immediately while asking people to refrain from travel to Russia. 

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia quoted Vladimir Putin as saying, "One glance at the map is enough to see to what extent Western countries have kept their promise to refrain from NATO’s eastward expansion. They just cheated. We've seen five waves of NATO expansion - its military infrastructure has reached Russia’s borders."

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday defiantly sent a message to the West, US, and NATO allied nations that his own country’s interests were ‘non-negotiable,’ while still agreeing to hold diplomatic dialogue over the question of Ukrainian sovereignty. Addressing his nation on the occasion of the Defender of the Fatherland Day or Armed Forces day, Putin hailed the heroism of his soldiers, and acknowledged the courage of his military forces calling them “noble defenders, our pride.”

“Please accept my warmest greetings on this holiday, Defender of the Fatherland Day,” Russian leader Putin told veterans, the military and civilian personnel of the Armed Forces, and the civilians of his country. 

“I thank you for your faithful and honest service to our Motherland,” said Russian leader Vladimir Putin, addressing the country on Defender of the Fatherland Day. 

“I have confidence in you, Russian soldiers and officers, in your high professionalism, bravery and reliability, that you will guard our people, and stand up for the national interests of our great country.”

Russian Charge d'affaires to India, Roman Babushkin held a virtual press conference on Wednesday and presented the Russian perspective after President Vladimir Putin recognised the independence of Ukraine's breakaway regions - the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) and the Luhansk People's Republic (LPR).

He stated that the independence of these separatist regions was a long-pending issue to prevent "genocide" being practised by Ukraine. Babushkin claimed that Russia has been trying to initiate dialogue on the issue since 2015 but it didn't take place and the decision taken by President Putin to recognise their independence was the only way for the people of these regions to live safely. 

"Today Donetsk & Luhansk applied officially to Russia for recognition of their independence. But from the very beginning, the US started its internal influence in domestic affairs in countries on all post-Soviet space, including Ukraine," he stated at the press conference. 

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NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said Tuesday that the alliance believes there’s every indication that Russia is planning a "full-scale attack" on Ukraine. After the meeting of a NATO-Ukraine Commission, as requested by the Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the NATO chief demanded that Moscow reverses its course immediately. "We urge Russia in the strongest possible terms to choose the path of diplomacy. This is the most dangerous moment in European security for a generation," Stoltenberg told reporters from Brussels. 

"Every indication is that Russia continues to plan for a full-scale attack on Ukraine,” warned NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg. 

Former president of the United States Donald Trump has called Russian President Vladimir Putin's current decision to acknowledge the independence of the two separatist regions in eastern Ukraine as “genius.” During an interview on "The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show," Trump claimed that Putin's recognition of the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk republics in Ukraine on Monday was "smart" and "pretty savvy", as per The Hill. 

The comments of the ex-president come after Russian President Putin signed a decree proclaiming the rebel republics as independent states on Monday. In the interview, when questioned about Russia's recognition move, Trump just praised Putin. He remarked, "I went in yesterday, and there was a television screen, and I said, ‘This is genius’. Putin declares a big portion of the Ukraine — of Ukraine — Putin declares it as an independent. Oh, that’s wonderful," Sputnik reported.  

After Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged the independence of two Donbass republics Donetsk and Luhansk, the Opposition Platform - For Life party is calling for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's resignation.

The party issued a statement stating that the Opposition Platform - For Life feels that the government should resign after failing to restore peace and return Donbass, and that politicians' fear, aspirations and carelessness should not be borne by the country. It also insisted that the failure of the Zelensky government should not be viewed as a national defeat.

The opposition party holds 44 seats in Ukraine's parliament, the Verkhovna Rada. The statement also said that the current situation in Donbass is a tragic result of the authorities' inaction and lack of will and that two-thirds of Ukrainian voters supported peace and the return of Donbass to Ukraine in the last elections. However, according to the opposition, the government was unable to handle this critical national duty.

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Roman Babushkin, during a virtual press conference, said, "India and Russia partnership is as strong as ever" while adding," European stability not possible without Russia". 

"Moratorium on missile developments were flouted by the US. While Ukraine had announced its nuclear ambitions, it has clearly targeted Russia. Communication with NATO was always difficult and in recent years, it became unilateral. Not many mechanisms of conversation were left between Russia and US." 

"Not to mention, their practice of expelling diplomats, and how the US wants to change the world map once again under its leadership. The US wants a unipolar world and it misuses unilateral sanctions," he continued. 

"Europe and the EU have completely lost their foreign policy independence," he added. 

Today Donetsk & Luhansk applied officially to Russia for recognition of their independence. But from the very beginning, the US started its internal influence in domestic affairs in countries of all post-Soviet space, including Ukraine: Russian Embassy's Dy Chief of Mission, New Delhi. 

"All these years, the West was ignoring the situation and it was well-established practice by the US and its partners of double standards. They (US) claim democracy and human rights only when they are interested. West started using Ukraine for their geopolitical game against Russia by supplying weapons to Ukraine," he added. 

"Starting from 2014, their (US) military supply to Ukraine exceeded USD 2.7 billion while Ukraine continued to blockage the eastern region and practice genocide. They were depriving people of basic human rights as well," he continued. 

New Zealand's government summoned Russian Ambassador Georgii Zuev to meet Wednesday with top diplomatic officials who are urging Russia to return to diplomatic negotiations over Ukraine.

Foreign Affairs Minister Nanaia Mahuta is currently out of the country but said in a statement that the ambassador was called in "to hear New Zealand's strong opposition to the actions taken by Russia in recent days, and condemn what looks to be the beginning of a Russian invasion into Ukraine territory." The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed to The Associated Press on Wednesday afternoon that the meeting had taken place but declined to provide any further details.

___ Canberra: Australia has announced additional sanctions on Russia and is warning businesses to prepare for retaliation through Russian cyberattacks. PM Scott Morrison that targeted financial sanctions and travel bans will be the first batch of measures in response to Russian aggression toward Ukraine.

Australia and Russia have imposed sanctions on each other since 2014. The sanctions were initiated by Australia in protest of Russian involvement in the Ukraine conflict.

Noting that diplomatic efforts are the only way to reach an amicable solution to the prevailing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Tuesday that India's approach has been to de-escalate and de-conflict.

"We have been in touch with all concerned. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar was at Munich Security Conference, he met a lot of our interlocutors. Our approach has been- to de-escalate, de-conflict. Diplomacy is the only option. We don’t want to see anything that results in further escalation of the situation," Shringla told reporters after flagging off the first consignment of humanitarian aid of 50,000 tonnes of wheat to Afghanistan.

"This morning we made a statement at UNSC. We’ve been clear there should be the de-escalation of tensions, that the world can’t afford another conflict, that diplomacy and diplomatic efforts are the only way to reach an amicable solution acceptable to all," he added.

United Nations Secretary-general Antonio Guterres on Tuesday denounced Moscow's move, saying it is a "perversion of peacekeeping." Expressing concern over Russian military and weapons deployment, he also called for "immediate ceasefire" and restraint adding that the deteriorating security situation poses a grave threat to Ukrainian sovereignty. He also urged Russia to comply with rules for formal "re-establishment of international law."

Guterres' remarks came after Putin on February 21 signed a decree recognising the independence of two breakaway regions of Ukraine- Donetsk, and Luhansk- collectively called the Donbas republics. The step was met with widespread criticism from world leaders and effectively violated the Minsk Agreement. The US, UK, Japan and Germany responded to Russia's move with "swift and firm" economic measures.

Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday imposed sanctions on Russia and two separatist-controlled regions of Ukraine that were recognised as independent by Russian President Vladimir Putin. The penalties include a ban on issuance and distribution of new Russian government bonds in Japan in response to "actions Russia has been taking in Ukraine," PM Kishida said in a statement, as quoted by Associated Press.

Calling out Russia for unilaterally recognising the independence of Ukraine's breakaway regions -- Luhansk and  Donetsk, he also urged Putin to "return to diplomatic process" in order to resolve the long-standing standoff.

“We strongly urge Russia to return to diplomatic process in resolving the development,” Japan PM Fumio Kishida said on Wednesday, as quoted by AP.

The situation in Ukraine has its roots in post-Soviet politics, the expansion of NATO and the dynamics between Russia and Europe, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said, amid escalating tension between Moscow and the West after Russian President Vladimir Putin recognised two breakaway Ukrainian regions as independent states.

In an interactive session at a think-tank in Paris, he said on Tuesday that the world today is in the midst of "multiple crises" and these developments have generated new challenges to the international order.

Separately in an interview published in French daily Le Figaro on Monday, Jaishankar said that the situation in Ukraine is the result of a complex chain of circumstances over the last 30 years and most countries are seeking a diplomatic solution.

"The situation in Ukraine is the result of a complex chain of circumstances over the last 30 years. Most countries, such as India and France, which are very active, are seeking a diplomatic solution," he said. 

"The real question is: are you mobilised to find a good solution or are you content with posturing? India can talk with Russia, with other countries, within the UN security council and support initiatives like those of France," Jaishankar said when asked why India has not condemned the concentration of Russian troops on the Ukrainian borders.

In his address at the French Institute of International Relations, Jaishankar extensively delved into fast-expanding Indo-French ties and said India looks at France as a "trusted" partner in countering myriad security challenges from the seabed to space and from cyber to oceans.

"I can assert with genuine confidence that it (Indo-French ties) are the strongest now since our journey as an independent nation began 75 years ago," he said. 

"Through the tumult of our times, India's relations with France have continued to move forward on a steady and clear course. It is a relationship that is free from sudden shifts and surprises that we sometimes see in other cases," he added.

Asked to compare the Ukraine crisis with the situation in Taiwan, Jaishankar said different problems have different histories, different contexts and players and transposing issues of one theatre to another can be misleading.

"Both are products of very complex histories of that particular region. In the case of Ukraine, a lot of it derives from the post-Soviet politics, the expansion of NATO, the dynamics between Russia and Europe, and Russia and the West broadly," he said.

Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced on February 21 that he has taken steps to halt the process of certifying Nord Stream 2—the $11 billion undersea natural gas pipeline connecting Russia and Germany.

Scholz told reporters in Berlin that his government had decided to "reassess" the pipeline's certification, which has yet to be put into service. Scholz explained that the action was taken in response to Russia's recent activities in Ukraine, which included the deployment of troops to two pro-Russian rebel enclaves in eastern Ukraine.

"That sounds technical, but it is the necessary administrative step so there can be no certification of the pipeline and without this certification, Nord Stream 2 cannot begin operating," he told reporters. 

As per the latest satellite images, Russian troops have already encroached into and are stationed at Ukraine's eastern region and closer to the newly-formed autonomous States, namely- Donetsk and Luhansk. As per the images released by AP, extensive military vehicles and Russian convoys, personal heavy carriers with ammunition were recorded along the Soloti area. 

As per reports, by February 18 almost a dozen of Su-25 ground attack aircraft was visible at Luninets with a notable chunk of helicopters, military equipment and drone unit were also installed. In addition, reports confirmed the installation of the S-400 air defence unit in the said region. S-400 is a high-range surface-to-air missile defence system that can strike air carriers and cruise missiles within a range of 400-kilometre. 

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Following Russian President Vladimir Putin's order to send soldiers into the two Ukraine's breakaway regions -- Donetsk and Luhansk, United States President Joe Biden has approved an additional deployment of US troops as well as military equipment in Europe on Tuesday (local time) to "strengthen" Baltic allies -- Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. According to The Hill, Biden told the media at the White House, “As Russia contemplates its next move, we have our next move prepared as well.” 

The United States has already dispatched or repositioned nearly 6,000 US troops to Germany, Poland, as well as Romania near the countries' borders with Ukraine, while Russia has assembled approximately 1,90,000 troops near its boundary with the former Soviet nation and in Belarus, The Hill reported.  

During his speech, Biden has also reaffirmed NATO's commitment to upholding international law, saying, "We have no intention of fighting Russia." He further said that they want to send an "unmistakable message" that the United States and its partners will protect "every inch of NATO territory" and would honour their NATO commitments.  

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Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Wednesday announced targetted sanctions on eight Russian entities as retaliation to Moscow's additional troop deployment along Ukraine's eastern borders and Putin's recognition of the independence of the Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republic's (DPR, LPR). Addressing the cabinet, PM Morrison informed that the sanctions will include travel bans and they would be imposed "immediately". He even said that he believes "the invasion of Ukraine has effectively already begun." Morrison further warned that the swift and firm sanctions could also exacerbate retaliatory cyberattacks from Russia.  

"They are behaving like thugs and bullies and they should be called out as thugs and bullies," Australian PM Scott Morrison while slamming Russia over latest developments in Eastern Europe, as quoted by Sputnik.

"Australians always stand up to bullies, and we will be standing up to Russia.  I expect subsequent tranches of sanctions, this is only the start of this process," he added.

With an advisory from the Ministry of External Affairs, several students from India studying in Ukraine returned and collectively said that they are 'happy to be back'.

Speaking to ANI, one of the students said that it was better to return as there is no clarity on what could happen in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russia, on Tuesday, established diplomatic relations with the disputed region - Donetsk and Lugansk People's Republics.

"As a student, I feel it's panic there," said an Indian student who returned from Ukraine. 

Canada will deploy up to 460 additional troops to Eastern Europe amid escalating tensions following Russia's recognition of the breakaway Donetsk and Luhansk people's republics, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said. Under the deployment at least 30 Canadian troops will be sent to Latvia, Canada Defence Minister Anita Anand informed. "Most of the 460 soldiers will be housed aboard the frigate Halifax that is due to arrive in the region by the end of March, while the rest will be split between an artillery battery and a maritime patrol aircraft," she added. 

"Today, I am authorizing a deployment of up to 460 members of the Canadian Armed Forces to Operation Reassurance," Trudeau told a news conference on Tuesday.

The deployment will see Latvia receive an additional contingent of 30 Canadian soldiers, Defense Minister Anita Anand said.

Most of the 460 soldiers will be housed aboard the frigate Halifax that is due to arrive in the region by the end of March, while the rest will be split between an artillery battery and a maritime patrol aircraft, Anand added.

The sanctions include banning Canadians from all financial dealings with the breakaway states known as Luhansk and Donetsk. Canadians also will be barred from purchasing Russian sovereign debt and dealing with two state-backed Russian banks. Moreover, Ottawa will also sanction members of the Russian parliament who voted to recognize the separatist regions.

Speaking on Canada's response to Russia's decision, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said, "Make no mistake, this is a further invasion of a sovereign state and it is absolutely unacceptable."

"Russia's brazen provocations are a threat to security and peace in the world," he added. 

President Joe Biden on Tuesday, February 22, announced that the US is sanctioning two of Russia’s largest banks, cutting it off from getting loans from the West and imposing sanctions on Russia’s elites and their families. In response to Russia's decision to recognize two breakaway regions in eastern Ukraine as independent and ordered its army to launch a “peacekeeping operation” into the area, Biden announced the first round of new sanctions against Moscow, adding to Western efforts to stop the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Sanctions are being applied to VTB Bank and Russia's military banks. 

Earlier, Germany imposed a brake on a big gas pipeline from Russia and the British also hit Russian banks with sanctions. 

Russia's response to the sanctions

As per the Reuters report, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov brushed off the threat of sanctions and said, "We're used to it. We know that sanctions will be imposed anyway, in any case. With or without reason."

Maria Shagina, an international sanctions expert based in Helsinki, quoted in the Washington Post stated that Vladimir Putin does not seem threatened by Biden’s strategy of a slow escalation of sanctions. She suggested the Biden administration shift the red lines to imposing the tough sanctions as it would be late after the full invasion of Ukraine. 

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US State Secretary Antony Blinken on Tuesday called off a scheduled meeting with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov, saying that "it does not make sense" in the face of Moscow's attempt to aggravate tensions along with east Ukraine. The meeting was set to be held in the coming week in Geneva to push Russia for diplomatic avenues on the Ukraine crisis. However, while addressing a press conference with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba yesterday, Blinken asserted, Moscow making visible attempts to invade Ukraine "made clear its wholesale rejection of diplomacy."

"Last week, I agreed to meet Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov this week on February 24 to discuss our countries' respective concerns about European security but only if Russia did not invade Ukraine," US State Secretary Antony Blinken said in his statement.

Now that we see the invasion is beginning and Russia has made clear its wholesale rejection of diplomacy, it does not make sense to go forward with that meeting at this time," he added.

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Air India special flight AI 1946 landed at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport from Ukraine's Boryspil airport with over 240 Indian citizens on Tuesday night amid the Russia-Ukraine crisis. "Air India special flight AI-1946 landed at Delhi airport with around 242 passengers at 2330 Hrs," an Air India official told ANI. On Tuesday, Air India's special flight AI-1947 operated for Ukraine to bring back Indians from Ukraine. More than 20,000 students from India are currently studying in different parts of Ukraine. "Feeling relieved," said an Indian student pursuing a medical course in Ukraine after landing at Delhi airport amid the Ukraine crisis.

A day after the Russian President altered the international borders, its presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov on Tuesday said further engaging with the diplomats of Ukraine will only complicate the relations between the two nations. According to a report by Russian news agency, TASS, Peskov called the talks between the officials of both countries will be an extremely unwelcome step and added this would also hamper the relations of people living on the other side of the country. 

"Naturally, the severance of diplomatic relations would be an extremely unwelcome scenario, which will only make everything still more difficult not only for the states but also for their peoples," the Russian news agency quoted Peskov as saying.

A day after Russia announced its recognition of two breakaway regions of Ukraine as independent and sent its forces there, it received a reply from the United States. Addressing a press briefing, US President Joe Biden said that Russia absolutely had no power to declare independent regions. As a retaliation, a tranche of economic sanctions was announced.