Russia-Ukraine War: Biden leaves Presidential Palace, explosion reported near Lviv

On Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine only need 1% of NATO's aircraft and 1% of its tanks to fight the Russian forces and that he would not ask for more. He said that it has been 31 days since they have waited for the aircraft and tanks. On Saturday, British foreign minister Liz Truss said that sanctions against Russian individuals and companies might be eased if Russia withdraws from Ukraine and pledges to end hostilities in the country, according to a British newspaper. US and UK have imposed severe economic sanctions against Russia ever since the war started in an attempt to persuade Vladimir Putin to quit what he calls a special military operation to demilitarise and "denazify" Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has appealed to the international partners to equip Ukraine with the tanks and planes to unblock Mariupol because it can't take down Russian missiles with machine guns and shotguns. He stated that without a sufficient number of tanks, other armoured vehicles and aircraft, it is impossible to reopen Mariupol and that the Mariupol's defenders are well aware of this. The President also announced that on March 26, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and Defense Minister Oleksiy Kuleba met with Polish colleagues in Poland and US President Joe Biden. Volyn Regional Military Administration announced that three of four missiles fired from Belarus were shot down over Volyn on the evening of March 26, according to Ukrainian media. The administration stated that four missiles were fired from air targets over the territory of the Republic of Belarus and three of the four missiles were shot down in the sky over Volyn. https://www.facebook.com/voladm.gov.ua/posts/267418118929536 US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken has announced that the US would send an additional $100 million to the Ukrainian people, border guards and police on the front lines. He shared a tweet stating that the United States will provide an additional $100 million in civilian assistance to the Ukrainian State Border Guard and National Police, including armoured vehicles and equipment, who are on the front lines rescuing victims and protecting civilians from Putin's brutal attack. The U.S. will provide an additional $100 million in civilian security assistance, including armored vehicles and equipment to the Ukrainian State Border Guards and National Police, who are on the front lines rescuing victims and protecting civilians from Putin’s brutal assault. — Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) March 26, 2022 Kremlin has denounced US President Joe Biden's statement on Saturday that Vladimir Putin 'cannot remain in power,' stating that Russians must choose their own president. Dmitry Peskov, the spokesperson for the Kremlin, stated that Biden has no say in the matter and that the Russian citizens elect the country's president. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that he had a conversation with Bulgarian Prime Minister Kiril Petkov where he talked about Russian aggression's counter-offensive strategy. He also stated that they discussed the dire humanitarian situation in the cities and villages of Ukraine. He then said that they all must work together to avert a humanitarian disaster. Had a constructive conversation with 🇧🇬 Prime Minister @KirilPetkov. Informed about the course of counteraction to 🇷🇺 aggression. The critical humanitarian situation in 🇺🇦 cities and villages was discussed. We have to stop the humanitarian catastrophe together! — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) March 26, 2022 During a speech on Russia's invasion of Ukraine delivered from Poland on Saturday, US President Joe Biden stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin "cannot stay in power." The US President also asked democracies all across the world to get together against Russia and fight authoritarian aggression in a historic war. The Regional Governor of Lviv Oblast, Maksym Kozytsky has announced that at least five people were injured in two strikes on the western Ukrainian city of Lviv on Saturday. Lviv has been relatively unaffected by Russian soldiers since their invasion last month. Kozytsky stated that there were two missile strikes within Lviv, which injured five people according to early data. He also claims that he had visited the strike location and said that the issue was now under control. After a month of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Switzerland's Federal Council decided on March 25 to impose new sanctions against Russia. Exports of goods and services relating to the Russian energy sector are currently restricted. Participating in energy-related firms and providing loans or other financial resources to Russia are also prohibited. Imports of iron and steel items from or originating in Russia, as well as luxury goods and maritime navigation goods, are prohibited with the new sanctions. Transactions with certain state-owned firms are illegal in the financial industry, as is the supply of credit rating services. While meeting with Ukrainian refugees in Warsaw on March 26, US President Joe Biden referred to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin as a "butcher," and said he is sceptical that Putin has switched Russia's war plan to focus on eastern territories. After meeting refugees in Poland's capital on March 26, Biden was asked what he thought of Putin, and he replied, "He's a butcher." Lviv Oblast Governor Maksym Kozytskyi said that 3 loud explosions were heard near Lviv, from the east. Sadovyi warned that more strikes may be coming- Kyiv Independent. 🇵🇱🤝🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/w03TtrgXaO — Chancellery of the Prime Minister of Poland (@PremierRP_en) March 26, 2022 🇵🇱🇺🇸PM @MorawieckiM welcomed @POTUS @JoeBiden at the @PGENarodowy Stadium. pic.twitter.com/WpIPMl2LB0 — Chancellery of the Prime Minister of Poland (@PremierRP_en) March 26, 2022 With Joe Biden in Warsaw, an explosion has been reported near Lviv, the Ukrainian city 80km from Poland's border that has become a refuge for civilians. Today, I met with Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and Minister of Defense Oleksii Reznikov. We discussed our efforts to rally the world in support of Ukraine and the significant military and humanitarian assistance the United States is providing. pic.twitter.com/N8bvuua19c — President Biden (@POTUS) March 26, 2022 Chernihiv is surrounded. The local authorities plan to take out seriously wounded who can't be operated on a place, says the mayor of Chernihiv. "The enemy deliberately destroyed the bridge connecting the city with the Kyiv direction. The city has no opportunity to arrange humanitarian corridors or evacuate the wounded. A pedestrian bridge is under constant crossfire, it is dangerous to transport goods through it, it can fall, and people can die," stated Mayor Vladislav Atroshenko. "The city is completely destroyed. It is easier to count those houses that were not destroyed. More than 200 civilians were killed." The meeting of US President Joe Biden with his Polish counterpart has ended just minutes ago on Saturday. According to the latest update, POTUS Biden has left the Presidential Palace. #BREAKING on #MultiPolarWorld | Republic's @shawansen breaks down the details as US President Joe Biden's meet with his Polish counterpart at the Presidential Palace ends. Watch the global coverage as Republic is the only Indian channel #LIVE from Poland - https://t.co/9MUHZ1FNVU pic.twitter.com/LYj5ljuPjy — Republic (@republic) March 26, 2022 US President Joe Biden affirms "stability in Europe is very important, NATO remains completely united" during meet with the Polish delegation in Presidential Palace, Warsaw. #Breaking on #MultiPolarWorld| Joe Biden affirms "stability in Europe is very important, NATO remains completely united" during meet with the Polish delegation in Presidential Palace, Warsaw Catch the #LIVE coverage here: https://t.co/9MUHZ1FNVU pic.twitter.com/GkOkhPSKuG — Republic (@republic) March 26, 2022 #Breaking on #MultiPolarWorld| Joe Biden cautions 'we must stay in contact on how to proceed against Russia' amid Ukraine War Catch the #LIVE coverage here: https://t.co/9MUHZ1FNVU pic.twitter.com/zXJ0VlwKH4 — Republic (@republic) March 26, 2022 US President Joe Biden holds key meeting with Poland's President Andrzej Duda at Presidential Palace in Warsaw. #BREAKING on #MultiPolarWorld| US President Joe Biden holds key meet with Poland's President Andrzej Duda at Presidential Palace in Warsaw. Republic is LIVE on-location. Catch the #LIVRE coverage here: https://t.co/xUgjIkM7ly pic.twitter.com/vN4BZdu8KN — Republic (@republic) March 26, 2022 Finland’s Pesident says his country would likely be targeted by Russian cyber warfare and could face border violations if it decides to apply for membership in NATO. Several polls in recent weeks have shown a majority of Finns now supporting NATO membership, up from 25% at most before the Russian invasion of Ukraine. President Sauli Niinisto said in an interview Saturday with public broadcaster YLE that the biggest benefit would be “gaining a preventive effect.” US President Joe Biden arrived at Presidential Palace in Warsaw and started a meeting with the leaders of Poland. #BREAKING on #MultiPolarWorld | Joe Biden hold crucial meeting with Ukraine's Foreign and Defence Ministers in Poland's capital Warsaw. Watch the global coverage on Republic- https://t.co/9MUHZ1FNVU pic.twitter.com/w6Vst1HYcU — Republic (@republic) March 26, 2022 The governor of the Kyiv region says that Russian forces have entered the city of Slavutych and seized a hospital there. Slavutych is located north of Kyiv and west of Chernihiv, outside the exclusion zone that was established around the Chernobyl nuclear power plant after the 1986 disaster. It is home to workers at the Chernobyl site. Governor Oleksandr Pavlyuk said Saturday that the Russians also kidnapped the city’s mayor, but some media reported later in the day that the mayor was released swiftly. Neither claim could be verified independently. The governor said that residents of Slavutych took to the streets with Ukrainian flags to protest the Russian invasion. “The Russians opened fire into the air. They threw flash-bang grenades into the crowd. But the residents did not disperse, on the contrary, more of them showed up,” Pavlyuk said. In #Slavutych, local residents tell the #Russian invaders in which direction they should leave the city pic.twitter.com/aANHNysLZj — NEXTA (@nexta_tv) March 26, 2022 AP NATO Deputy-General Secretary Mircea Geoana says that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s month-old “barbaric war” against Ukraine is a war he cannot win. In an interview with The Associated Press, the former Romanian foreign minister and ambassador to the United States added that NATO would be “forced to take appropriate measures” in the event of a chemical or nuclear attack, which follows a string of ominous comments from Moscow officials who refuse to rule out their use. He declined to say what those measures would be. “NATO is a defensive alliance, but also it’s a nuclear alliance,” he said. “If they will be using chemical weapons or other kinds of higher-end systems against Ukraine, this will be changing fundamentally the nature of the war that Mr. Putin has waged against Ukraine.” “I can guarantee that NATO is ready to respond proportionately,” he added. US President Joe Biden receives Guard of Honour at Presidential Palace in Warsaw. Subsequently, he entered the building where he is scheduled to meet the top leaders of Ukraine as well as Poland. #BREAKING on #MultiPolarWorld | US President Joe Biden receives Guard of Honour at Presidential Palace in Warsaw. Watch the global coverage as Republic is the only Indian channel #LIVE from Poland- https://t.co/xUgjIkM7ly pic.twitter.com/qHIGASQCKe — Republic (@republic) March 26, 2022 #BREAKING on #MultiPolarWorld | US President Joe Biden receives Guard of Honour at Presidential Palace in Warsaw. Watch the global coverage as Republic is the only Indian channel #LIVE from Poland- https://t.co/9MUHZ1FNVU pic.twitter.com/HsNRAUMD3h — Republic (@republic) March 26, 2022 Poland's President Andrzej Duda receives Joe Biden at Presidential Palace in Warsaw amid Russia-Ukraine War. Watch here: #BREAKING on #MultiPolarWorld | Poland's President Andrzej Duda receives Joe Biden at Presidential Palace in Warsaw amid Russia-Ukraine War. Watch the global coverage as Republic is the only Indian channel #LIVE from Poland- https://t.co/9MUHZ1FNVU pic.twitter.com/63bUUQcZX4 — Republic (@republic) March 26, 2022 US President Joe Biden arrives at Presidential Palace in Warsaw to meet Poland's President Andrzej Duda. #BREAKING on #MultiPolarWorld | US President Joe Biden arrives at Presidential Palace in Warsaw to meet Poland's President Andrzej Duda. Republic is LIVE on-location. Watch the global coverage as Republic is the only Indian channel #LIVE from Poland- https://t.co/9MUHZ1FNVU pic.twitter.com/iswc4EZkei — Republic (@republic) March 26, 2022 US President Joe Biden has arrived at Poland's Presidential Palace where he is scheduled to meet two of the Ukrainian top diplomats along with Poland Andrzej Duda. #BREAKING on #MultiPolarWorld | US President Joe Biden arrives at Presidential Palace in Warsaw to meet Poland's President Andrzej Duda. Republic is LIVE on-location. Watch the global coverage as Republic is the only Indian channel #LIVE from Poland- https://t.co/xUgjIkM7ly pic.twitter.com/2zA9TaWaPJ — Republic (@republic) March 26, 2022 The meeting of US President Joe Biden is delayed by nearly 15 minutes. Earlier he was scheduled to reach the Presidential Palace at around 12 pm (local time). #BREAKING on #MultiPolarWorld | Joe Biden to arrive shortly at Presidential Palace, Poland for crucial meeting with Andrzej Duda. Watch the global coverage as Republic is the only Indian channel #LIVE from Poland- https://t.co/wRjYEy9CrI pic.twitter.com/Sd6cVvTiAR — Republic (@republic) March 26, 2022 #BREAKING on #MultiPolarWorld | US President Joe Biden to arrive shortly at Presidential Palace, Poland amid Russia-Ukraine War. Watch the global coverage as Republic is the only Indian channel #LIVE from Poland- https://t.co/wRjYEy9CrI pic.twitter.com/pjdUKhj7es — Republic (@republic) March 26, 2022 YouTube removed the channel of Russian hoaxers Vladimir Kuznetsov and Alexey Stolyarov, known as Vovan and Lexus, respectively, where footage of prank telephone calls with UK Defense Secretary Ben Wallace and Home Secretary Priti Patel was published, news agency Sputnik reported. "The YouTube account associated with this video has been terminated," a YouTube message read. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Saturday met US Secy of State Blinken and US Secy of Defense Lloyd J Austin III in Poland. "This special 2+2 format allows us to seek practical decisions in both political and defence spheres in order to fortify Ukraine’s ability to fight back Russian aggression," tweeted Kuleba. We are meeting our U.S. counterparts @SecBlinken and @SecDef in Warsaw together with @oleksiireznikov. This special 2+2 format allows us to seek practical decisions in both political and defense spheres in order to fortify Ukraine’s ability to fight back Russian aggression. pic.twitter.com/5qlUXtwqXS — Dmytro Kuleba (@DmytroKuleba) March 26, 2022 As US President Joe Biden is set to meet two of the Ukrainian top diplomats in Poland, Republic TV has reached the Presidential Palace to update its audience with all major updates. #BREAKING on #MultiPolarWorld | Republic TV provides all the major updates from Presidential Palace in Poland as Joe Biden is set to hold crucial meeting on Russia-Ukraine War. Watch exclusive details here-https://t.co/QHz5nwdanR pic.twitter.com/fNQhTpwemA — Republic (@republic) March 26, 2022 #BREAKING on #MultiPolarWorld | Republic's @shawansen details major takeaways on US President Joe Biden's crucial visit to Poland amid Russia-Ukraine War. Watch the global coverage as Republic is the only Indian channel #LIVE from Poland-https://t.co/QHz5nwdanR pic.twitter.com/0qnw0HA1s3 — Republic (@republic) March 26, 2022 Amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, president Volodymyr Zelenskyy, while addressing the Doha forum in presence of the Qatar Emir on Saturday, has slammed Russian President Vladimir Putin for attacking Ukraine and added Putin could use nuclear weapons against Ukraine. During the forum, he said that the Russian forces have destroyed at least 59 buildings of worship since it started a full-fledged war against Ukraine last month. According to him, the Russian forces destroyed several significant cities like Mariupol. He further blamed Putin for not letting the civilians flee the war-torn country. Read full story here Authorities in the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, have announced a new 35-hour curfew in the city. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said the curfew will run from 8 p.m. local time on Saturday to 7 a.m. on Monday, with local residents allowed to leave their homes only to get to a bomb shelter. Klitschko said that shops, pharmacies, gas stations and public transport will not be operating during the curfew. The Russian troops have kidnapped Yuri Fomichiv the mayor of the northern Ukrainian city of Slavutych, according to the head of the Kyiv Regional State Administration Oleksandr Pavliuk. In addition, they have also invaded and captured the city hospital. However, the full City Council continues its work. Addressing Doha Forum, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that the upcoming month of Ramadan should not be overshadowed by misery and pain- another call to immediately end the war. Speaking on Saturday, Zelenskyy said that the war should slow the momentum of the holy festival. In his speech, he had also said that there were 4,000 Muslims living in the city of Mariupol which has been besieged by Russian troops. يرحب منتدى الدوحة بالرئيس الأوكراني سعادة السيد فولوديمير زيلينسكي الذي ينضم افتراضيًا لإلقاء كلمة على الوفد المشارك خلال حفل الافتتاح. #منتدى_الدوحة pic.twitter.com/FuyqN6lJLZ — Doha Forum (@DohaForum) March 26, 2022 Addressing Doha Forum, Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy said that nuclear weapons should not be used to do injustice. “Injustice spreads like virus does,” he said highlighting the ongoing Russian invasion. The President also said that Moscow has been bragging about Nuclear weapons but if deploys them in the war, it would have consequences on all countries and people. يرحب منتدى الدوحة بالرئيس الأوكراني سعادة السيد فولوديمير زيلينسكي الذي ينضم افتراضيًا لإلقاء كلمة على الوفد المشارك خلال حفل الافتتاح. #منتدى_الدوحة pic.twitter.com/FuyqN6lJLZ — Doha Forum (@DohaForum) March 26, 2022 #BREAKING | Russia is bragging about nuclear weapons. They are threatening the whole world with nuclear weapons. Ukraine President Zelenskyy addresses Doha Forum virtuallyhttps://t.co/XJfVF6RKhk pic.twitter.com/hXH8NIhBrs — Republic (@republic) March 26, 2022 Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, speaking at Doha Forum on Saturday, revealed the extent of damage that Russian troops have caused on Mariupol. As per the embattled president, Kremlin forces weren't even allowing humanitarian aid to reach the city which has been under siege for weeks now. "Thousands have been dead," he said. Notably, Zelenskyy also revealed that there were 4,000 Muslims residing in the Mariupol. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, on Saturday, addressed the Doha Forum virtually. In his speech, he revealed that Russian troops were setting up mines on farmlands and destroying agrarian equipment in his country. While he pointed out that it would adversely impact Ukraine, Zelesnkyy also warned that absence of exports could cause a global food shortage. It is imperative to note that Ukraine is one of the largest exporters of wheat and sunflower oil in the world. #BREAKING | Russia is bragging about nuclear weapons. They are threatening the whole world with nuclear weapons. Ukraine President Zelenskyy addresses Doha Forum virtuallyhttps://t.co/XJfVF6RKhk pic.twitter.com/hXH8NIhBrs — Republic (@republic) March 26, 2022 Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the opening session of the Doha Forum on Saturday wherein he emphasised that there was a need for all countries to possess nuclear weapons. Highlighting the ongoing war in Ukraine he said that all countries need to develop nuclear weapons to protect themselves from invasion. His remarks came amidst a warning that Kremlin troops could use nuclear, biological or chemical weapons as they have now switched to attrition warfare. #BREAKING | Russia is bragging about nuclear weapons. They are threatening the whole world with nuclear weapons. Ukraine President Zelenskyy addresses Doha Forum virtuallyhttps://t.co/XJfVF6RKhk pic.twitter.com/hXH8NIhBrs — Republic (@republic) March 26, 2022 Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, on Saturday, addressed the Doha Forum wherein he urged Qatar to increase its energy output. Highlighting that increased fuel experts from Qatar could help Europe abandon the Russian oil and natural gas, Zelenskyy said Qatar was an important stakeholder in the ongoing conflict. "The future of Europe depends on you," the embattled President said. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, on Saturday, kicked off his five-day tour of the Middle East and North Africa which includes stops in Israel, the West Bank, Morocco, and Algeria. According to Sputnik, the top US diplomat will discuss the situation in Ukraine amongst other issues during his trip. Former President of Russia has said that there is always a threat of nuclear conflict as the Russian invasion of Ukraine entered its 31st day on Saturday. Speaking to Sputnik, Dmitry Medvedev said that no one wants a war, however, the threat of nuclear conflict always exists. Separately, he also said that it was "foolish" to think that western sanctions against Russian businesses would have any effect on Putin led administration. President of the European Commission Ursula Von Der Leyen reiterated the EU's support to Ukraine and said "they have the whole EU behind them". On Friday, she described her telephonic conversation with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and lauded Ukrainians ' bravery in combating the ongoing invasion. She also said that European Union was determined to step up support to Ukraine, sharpen sanctions and break free from Russian fossil fuels. Last night President @ZelenskyyUa described the courage of Ukrainians who are resisting bravely. They have the whole EU behind them. We will step up our support to Ukraine, sharpen our sanctions and break free from Russian fossil fuels. https://t.co/7d4mzfelpP — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) March 25, 2022 Elon Musk, on Friday, confirmed that Russian hackers tried to hack thousands of Starlink Satellites Modems. Sharing a report about the same, the SpaceX CEO said that Starlink, at least so far, has resisted all hacking & jamming attempts. Musk has been blatantly supporting Ukraine against the Russian invasion and recently sent hundreds of Starlink kits-consisting of antennas etc- to Kyiv. Starlink, at least so far, has resisted all hacking & jamming attempts — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 25, 2022 Poland's Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, on Friday, said that all NATO members except Lithuania and Denmark support the introduction of peacekeepers in Ukraine. In a Twitter statement, Morawiecki said, "Today I can say that other member states (except Lithuania and Denmark) have expressed their approval, but they also expect some support and a common voice from#NATO". Notably, Russia has warned NATO against any direct or indirect involvement in the ongoing war. #Polish Prime Minister @MorawieckiM states that not only #Lithuania and #Denmark support the introduction of peacekeepers in #Ukraine: "Today I can say that other member states have expressed their approval, but they also expect some support and a common voice from #NATO". pic.twitter.com/MXcdFBoEO9 — NEXTA (@nexta_tv) March 26, 2022 British Defence Ministry has slapped sanctions on Russian Defence manufacturer Kronstadt. "These sanctions will damage the Russian defence industry and limit their ability to replace lost drones," the British defense ministry said. Notably, Kronstadt is the supplier of drones or UAVs in the country. #Britain has imposed sanctions against the #Russian defense company Kronstadt, which is the main manufacturer of drones. "These sanctions will damage the Russian defense industry and limit their ability to replace lost drones," the British defense ministry said. pic.twitter.com/lJP3xEnmho — NEXTA (@nexta_tv) March 26, 2022 US President Joe Biden, who is on an official visit to Europe to discuss the ongoing situation in Ukraine, landed in Poland on Friday. There he thanked humanitarian organizations for sending aid to Ukraine and assisting refugees. He also announced additional aid and said that his country would welcome up to 100,000 Ukrainian refugees The UN says more than 3.7 million people have fled Ukraine since Russia's invasion began, creating a migrant exodus as large as that at the end of WWII. Biden announces US%1 million in aid This afternoon in Poland, I received a briefing on the humanitarian response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The United States is prepared to provide an additional $1 billion for humanitarian assistance and welcome up to 100,000 Ukrainians and others fleeing Russian aggression. — President Biden (@POTUS) March 25, 2022 US President Joe Biden, who is on an official visit to Europe to discuss the ongoing situation in Ukraine, landed in Poland on Friday. There he thanked humanitarian organizations for sending aid to Ukraine and assisting refugees. He also announced additional aid and said that his country would welcome up to 100,000 Ukrainian refugees The UN says more than 3.7 million people have fled Ukraine since Russia's invasion began, creating a migrant exodus as large as that at the end of WWII. Biden announces US%1 million in aid This afternoon in Poland, I received a briefing on the humanitarian response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The United States is prepared to provide an additional $1 billion for humanitarian assistance and welcome up to 100,000 Ukrainians and others fleeing Russian aggression. — President Biden (@POTUS) March 25, 2022 On Friday, Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that there is no consensus on negotiation with Russia as yet. In a tweet, he said that Ukraine’s position was clear- ceasefire, security guarantees, no compromises on territorial integrity. "But Russia sticks to ultimatums. To stimulate a more constructive approach we need two things: more sanctions and more military aid for Ukraine," he further said. No consensus in negotiations yet. Ukraine’s position is clear: ceasefire, security guarantees, no compromises on territorial integrity. But Russia sticks to ultimatums. To stimulate a more constructive approach we need two things: more sanctions and more military aid for Ukraine. — Dmytro Kuleba (@DmytroKuleba) March 25, 2022 About 300 people are now believed to have died in the attack on a theatre in the besieged Ukrainian city of Mariupol nine days ago, the city council was reported as saying by CNN. The theatre was serving as a bomb shelter and had around 1000 people when it was bombarded by Kremlin forces. Meanwhile, the city of Mariupol still remains under siege. According to Ukrainian officials, the port city still has 100,000 people who are trapped with little or no food, water and electricity. A top Russian general said on Friday that the "first stage" of Russia’s military plan is complete, with their primary focus now centred on eastern Ukraine. Sergei Rudskoi, who serves as the head of Russian General Staff’s Main Operational Directorate claimed that the combat powers of the Ukrainian military has been reduced and it was time to focus on the main goal ' the liberation of Donbas'. At present, Kremlin-backed separatists control 93% of Luhansk and 54% of Donetsk- two regions that make Donbas. Speaking to CNN, Senior advisor to Ukraine’s Minister of Defense said that Russian private mercenary group- Wagner was tasked with assassinating Ukrainian present Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal. “They wanted to assassinate the leadership of Ukraine: our President and Prime Minister. That was the goal and a couple of them were sent to Ukraine without any success,” Markian Lubkivskyi said. He also said that Ukraine’s intelligence agency and Special Forces responsible to protect Zelenskyy had confirmed the plot. Displaying the Russian war symbol 'Z' has been declared a criminal offence in Germany's southeastern state of Bavaria. On Friday, Justice Minister Georg Eisenreich said the “Bavarian Public Prosecutor’s Office is taking consistent action against persons who publicly approve the war of aggression that violates international law.” 'Z' is an abbreviation for the Russian phrase 'For Victory,' as per country's Ministry of Defence. The World Health Organization said on March 25 that there have been over 70 distinct attacks on hospitals, ambulances, and doctors in Ukraine since Russia’s all-out war against Ukraine began on Feb. 24. Earlier this week, the global health organisation had revealed that its surveillance systems have reported 64 attacks on healthcare facilities. Meanwhile, G7 Health Ministers condemned the indiscriminate attacks on the Ukrainian population, its healthcare facilities as well as on professionals working in the field. As the Russia-Ukraine war entered its second month, Ukraine's embattled President Volodymyr Zelensky said that “the number of the Russian losses has exceeded 16,000 casualties. In a video message posted online, he further said “Among them are the high-ranking commanders. So far no reports of killed Russian general colonels or admirals. However, in that number we have a commander of one of the occupiers' armies and a second in command of the Black Sea Navy.” French President Emmanuel Macron has called for "exceptional humanitarian operation" in Mariupol to evacuate civilians who want to leave the city. Macron added that he would discuss this issue with Putin in the next 2 to 3 days. Previously, he had asked Russian troops to end their military operations in the port city. Macron: France, Turkey and Greece want to evacuate people from Mariupol President of France announced "exceptional humanitarian operation" in Mariupol to evacuate civilians who want to leave the city. Macron added that he would discuss this issue with Putin in the next 2-3 days. pic.twitter.com/cIN80wnctu — NEXTA (@nexta_tv) March 25, 2022 President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged Russia to negotiate a cease-fire but has stated that Ukraine will not agree to give up any of its territories in exchange for peace. Zelenskyy appeared to be replying to Col. Gen Sergei Rudskoi, deputy chief of the Russian general staff, who said Russian forces would now concentrate on the major goal, the liberation of Donbas, in his nightly video message to the nation on Friday. Rudskoi's remarks also hinted that Russia may be retreating from its onslaught in Kyiv and other major cities. Zelenskyy stated that despite losing thousands of troops, Russian forces have yet to capture Kyiv or Kharkiv. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Володимир Зеленський (@zelenskiy_official) Following comments from a US general that Russian agents are in Mexico, the President of Mexico, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, stated on Friday that his government has no information of any Russian agents stationed in the nation and they do not prohibit any foreigner from conducting lawful business in the country. He further stated that Mexico is a free, independent, and sovereign country; this should be known because it appears that it is not well understood. Obrador's statement comes as Gen. Glen VanHerck said on Thursday that the largest fraction of the GRU members in the world is in Mexico right now and that they are Russian intelligence individuals, and they maintain a very close eye on their potential to have an influence on US opportunities and access. A senior US defence official stated that the Pentagon has observed indications that Russia is moving troop reinforcements from Georgia to Ukraine to help its operation in the Donbas region. The official claimed that they have seen the first signs that Russia was attempting to send reinforcements in from Georgia as they have seen a handful of Georgian military leave the country. However, the official claimed that they don't have a precise figure. ANI News Agency Associated Press (AP) has claimed that the Russian military has assaulted at least 34 medical facilities in Ukraine. The agency stated that in Ukraine, AP correspondents witnessed the horrific consequences of Russian strikes on civilian targets, including the last moments of children whose bodies were ripped by shrapnel and scores of corpses heaped into mass graves. Music streaming giant Spotify has halted its operations in Russia, becoming the latest in a growing number of media platforms to suspend operations in Putin-led Russia. The company stated that it will have to take certain operational steps to support the exit, but that it hopes to have completely discontinued service by early April. The company said that Spotify has continued to feel that keeping their service operational in Russia is crucial in providing credible, independent news and information in the region, but recently approved laws in Russia restricting access to information, eliminating free speech, and criminalising some forms of news puts the safety of Spotify's staff and even the listeners in jeopardy. Andrii Yermak, who is the Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine stated that it is critical that, following the war with Russia, Ukraine acquires a new security guarantee system that will prevent a recurrence of the current scenario. Надзвичайно важливо, щоб після цієї війни з Росією Україна отримала нову структуру безпекових гарантій, яка б запобігала повторенню сьогоднішньої ситуації. На цьому наголосив Андрій Єрмак під час участі у відеозустрічі Atlantic Council. Детальніше: https://t.co/DXla7UXHhO pic.twitter.com/pdV6Ptvu0e — Офіс Президента (@APUkraine) March 25, 2022 As Russia continues its military operation in Ukraine after a month of conflict, the State Secretary of the United States, Antony Blinken has stated that Kremlin has killed "countless Ukrainians," displaced millions, and also has caused thousands of Russian casualties ever since the war started. He then stated that this inhumane war must stop. Since the war in Ukraine began a month ago, the Kremlin has killed countless Ukrainians, displaced millions, and also has caused thousands of Russian casualties. This inhumane war must stop. pic.twitter.com/6N9Lw7WrJn — Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) March 25, 2022 France has refused Russian President Vladimir Putin's demand of paying in roubles for Russian gas, with French President Emmanuel Macron stating that there is no reason for France to accept Russia's demand that it pay for Russian gas in Russian roubles. At a press conference in Brussels, Macron stated that "texts reveal it is prohibited" to make such demands for rouble payments. Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated earlier this week that Russia will demand payment in roubles for gas exported to "unfriendly" countries like the US and the EU. French President Emmanuel Macron has stated that an "extraordinary humanitarian operation" will be conducted in Mariupol, Ukraine, in partnership with Greece and Turkey, according to French media. He stated that they will start a humanitarian operation with Greece and Turkey to evacuate everyone who wants to escape Mariupol and that they putting everything together in the best possible way. He further stated there have been specific discussions with the mayor of Mariupol and that they are doing it transparently with President Zelensky and the Ukrainian authorities. Macron further claimed that they are preparing to do so in the coming days. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukrainians and Russians come from two different worlds, each with its own set of values and outlook on life at a video address to the European Council, according to Ukrainian media. He also said that the term 'war' makes them (Russians) blush and claimed that they have staged a massacre here, as did the Nazis did, labelling it a "special operation." The President further said that they live in a distinct world, with different values and life perspectives. He continued by stating that the Russian military has no concept of dignity or morality. A senior US Defense Department official suggests that the third US delivery of the $800 million security aid package for Ukraine arrived in Eastern Europe on Friday, with three more shipments expected in the coming days. During a press conference, the official stated announced that today, another flight of $800 million security aid landed in the area. He further said that he is not sure if they have been readied for ground transport into Ukraine, but they have arrived in Europe from the United States. He also claimed that three additional flights will be available during the next three days, according to Russian media. On Friday, US President Joe Biden, who is in Poland stated that Russia has been struck with the toughest sanctions in history and claimed that there is more to come. On his visit to Poland, the President met with Polish President Andrzej Duda to discuss the situation in Ukraine and the plight of refugees who are fleeing to Poland. During the latest press briefing, the Russian Defense Ministry stated that the Russian soldiers have moved four kilometres farther into Ukrainian territory and taken control of the settlements of Batmanka, Mikhailovka, Krasny Partizan, Stavki, and Troitskoye. The ministry also said that Russian 'Kalibr' missiles destroyed Ukraine's important fuel deport Kalinovka outside of Kyiv on Thursday evening, according to Russian media. The spokesperson for the Joint Centre for Control and Coordination on Ceasefire suggests that Ukrainian forces fired five 122 mm mortars into Donetsk's Kirov district and ten 122 mm mortars at the Donetsk hamlet in the Lugansk People's Republic on Friday morning. Pope Francis presided Friday over a special prayer for Ukraine that harked back to a century-old apocalyptic prophesy about peace and Russia that was sparked by purported visions of the Virgin Mary to three peasant children in Fatima, Portugal, in 1917. Francis invited bishops, priests and ordinary faithful around the world to join him in the consecration prayer, which opened Friday with Francis entering St. Peter's Basilica before an estimated 3,500 people, including cardinals, ambassadors and pilgrims. To hammer home its universal nature, the Vatican translated the text of the prayer into three dozen languages. Retired Pope Benedict XVI was participating and an envoy of Francis was celebrating a simultaneous service at the Fatima shrine itself. The ritual is of deep spiritual importance to many Catholics and a source of fascination to others. It deals with some of the more controversial aspects of the Catholic faith: purported visions of the Madonna, prophesies of hell, Soviet communism and the death of a pope, and whether the prophesies contained in the so-called “secrets of Fatima” have already been fulfilled or not. The service was Francis’ latest effort to rally prayers for an end to the war while keeping open options for dialogue with the Russian Orthodox Church and its influential leader, Patriarch Kirill. Francis has yet to publicly condemn Russia by name for its invasion, though his denunciations have grown increasingly outraged. The Fatima story dates to 1917, when according to tradition, Portuguese siblings Francisco and Jacinta Marto and their cousin Lucia said the Virgin Mary appeared to them six times and confided to them three secrets. The first two described an apocalyptic image of hell, foretold the end of World War I and the start of World War II, and the rise and fall of Soviet communism. The children were aged between 7 and 10 at the time. In 2000, the Vatican disclosed the long-awaited third secret, describing it as foretelling the May 13, 1981, assassination attempt against St. John Paul II in St. Peter’s Square. According to later writings by Lucia, who became a nun and died in 2005, Russia would be converted and peace would reign if the pope and all the bishops of the world consecrated Russia to the “Immaculate Heart of Mary.” Lucia later claimed that John Paul fulfilled that prophesy during a Mass on March 25, 1984, exactly 38 years ago Friday, even though he never specified Russia in the prayer. The text of Francis’ prayer Friday appears to correct that 1984 omission, reading: “Therefore, Mother of God and our Mother, to your Immaculate Heart we solemnly entrust and consecrate ourselves, the Church and all humanity, especially Russia and Ukraine.” It adds: “Grant that war may end and peace spread throughout the world.” For some traditionalist Catholics, Francis' pronunciation of Russia in the prayer, as well as his invitation for all the world's bishops to join him, finally fulfills the original Fatima prophesy. Some quibble that he has added in Ukraine, while others point to the fact that the original call for Russia's “conversion” — presumably to Catholicism — might well have been a priority for the Catholic Church in 1917 but is not a focus of the Vatican's evangelization project now. Soon after Francis announced his plans to hold the consecration prayer, Patriarch Kirill announced he, too, was inviting the Russian Orthodox to direct prayers to the Mother of God. Kirill has called for peace but he has also seemingly justified the invasion by invoking Russia and Ukraine as “one people” and describing the conflict as a “metaphysical” battle. The Rev. Stefano Caprio, a former Catholic missionary in Russia and a professor of Russian history and culture at the Pontifical Oriental Institute in Rome, said Kirill is hardly the most hawkish of Russian patriarchs and is presumably under pressure to toe the Kremlin’s official line. But in comments to reporters this week, Caprio noted that the Catholic and Orthodox prayers being offered up Friday carry some significant ambiguities. “The problem is that these are two different interpretations: The Madonna who favors peace, and the Madonna who supports the war,” he said. (AP) President Joe Biden has given a pep talk to members of the U.S. Army's 82nd Airborne Division stationed in Poland near the border with Ukraine. Biden said he wanted to visit to thank them for their service. He added that it's "not hyperbole" when he says they are the ""organizing principle for the rest of the world." The president said the fatigue-clad men and women are an "amazing group" and he reminisced about his late son, Beau, who was a major in the Delaware Army National Guard. Biden visited some troops at lunch at their temporary headquarters in Rzeszów, where he chowed on a slice of pepperoni and jalapeno pepper. He also visited others who were getting their hair cut at a barbershop. Poland is the second top on Biden's four-day trip to Europe. He spent Thursday in Brussels meeting with world leaders on the response to Russia's to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Biden is scheduled Saturday to meet with Poland's president and with Ukrainian refugees before he heads back to Washington. President Vladimir Putin on Friday accused the West of trying to cancel Russia and the Russian people. "Today they are trying to cancel a whole thousand-year-old country, our people. I am talking about the progressing discrimination of everything connected with Russia," Putin said. He compared the alleged attempts to ban Russian composers and writers with book burnings in Nazi Germany in the 1930s. "The notorious cancel culture has become a cancellation of culture," Putin said. He also appeared to compare Russia's position to that of Harry Potter author, JK Rowling. The writer had previously been publicly attacked for her views on gender identity. Four Nordic energy companies say they are ready to help the three Baltic nations in the event Russia curbs or completely cuts electricity exports to its smaller neighbours. Denmark’s Energinet, Statnett of Norway, Sweden’s Svenska Kraftnat and Fingrid Oyj of Finland said in a statement they’ve “secured routines and identified eventual ambiguities in a scenario where the Baltics are disconnected from the Russian grid.” “In such a scenario, frequency support from the Nordic system will be needed. The Baltic (Transmission System Operators) have restricted the import from Russia in order not to risk a serious situation in the event of a sudden disconnection from the Russian system,” the statement released by Fingrid Oyj said. Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are still reliant on their Russian neighbour for much of their electricity needs. US President Joe Biden thanked US troops stationed in NATO territory during a visit to Rzeszow, Poland on Friday. He also talked to members of the 82nd Airborne Division before enjoying pizza with them. US President Joe Biden on Friday arrived at the G2 Arena in Jasionka, Rzeszow and met with service members from the 82nd Airborne Division, who have been deployed in recent weeks to bolster NATO's eastern flank. During his visit to Rzeszow, Biden will also be briefed on the humanitarian response to the refugees streaming out of Ukraine. Biden is due in Warsaw on Saturday. Hungary will not allow the supply of weapons to Ukraine through its territory, despite the demands of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as this would endanger the life and safety of the Hungarians, Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said on Friday. "We understand that Ukraine and the Ukrainian people are the most important thing for the president of Ukraine. However, the most important thing for us is the security of Hungary and the Hungarian people. We are acting to keep Hungary out of the war, so we will not allow weapons to pass through our territory. These supplies will immediately become a military target for destruction, and we are not ready to put the life and safety of the Hungarians at risk," Szijjarto wrote on Facebook (banned in Russia). According to a report of RIA News, the Russian Defence Ministry has acknowledged the killing of more than 1,350 Russian soldiers in the "military operation". As per the media report, at least 1,351 servicemen died and 3,825 were injured. As Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy drove to close the country's airspace amid the war, the Russian Defense Ministry has reacted strongly and warned the war-torn county to face the dire consequences. "Russian military will immediately respond appropriately to attempts to close the airspace over Ukraine," Nexta quoted the Defence Minister as saying. United States President Joe Biden arrives in Poland; to review refugee crisis amid Russia-Ukraine War #BREAKING | United States President Joe Biden arrives in Poland; to review refugee crisis amid Russia-Ukraine War Tune in to watch #LIVE updates here - https://t.co/HAjI0YXkOB pic.twitter.com/MTJIljGJN6 — Republic (@republic) March 25, 2022 #RussiaWinningOrLosing | Russia claims to have destroyed facilities used for training of foreign mercenaries; Tune in to watch #LIVE here - https://t.co/TZp4eRZf14 pic.twitter.com/ef5vn9lw2C — Republic (@republic) March 25, 2022 As the US and the EU jointly proposed a plan to penalise Russia after its unrelenting military aggression, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova indicated the action could affect bilateral relations. "The economic war declared on Russia threatens to completely collapse bilateral relations. This, of course, is not in our interests, because we proceed from the fact that diplomatic relations and, in principle, relations between states should serve national interests, the interests of the peoples living on the territory of our countries," news agency TASS quoted Zakharova as saying during a press conference on Friday. Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree on the release of Special envoy Anatoly Chubais from the duties of the special representative of the President of the Russian Federation. Recently, he had quit his post as sustainable development adviser to President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday. ⚡️#Putin signed a decree on the release of Chubais from the duties of the special representative of the President of the #Russian Federation pic.twitter.com/RezbyN1V3T — NEXTA (@nexta_tv) March 25, 2022 According to German Ministry of the Interior, more than a quarter of a million refugees fleeing the war in Ukraine have arrived in Germany. German police had registered 253,157 refugees. Most of them are women, children and the elderly. Amid the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia, people are mostly dependent on the internet to connect with their loved ones. In order to provide seamless internet services to the civilians who have been living in the bomb shelters since the Russian invasion, Deputy Mayor Vitali Klitschko Petr Olenick has announced a website that accepts applications for new Wi-Fi connections. "If your shelter does not have access to the Internet, leave a request. We will contact you and inform you about the next steps. I invite providers to join the project and thank those who are already with us," The Kyiv Independent quoted Olenick as saying. According to the head of Kyiv's digital transformation, Petr Olenych, nearly 650 applications have been processed. President Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine is approaching a new, potentially more dangerous phase after a month of fighting has left Russian forces stalled by an outnumbered foe. He is left with stark choices — how and where to replenish his spent ground forces, whether to attack the flow of Western arms to Ukrainian defenders, and at what cost he might escalate or widen the war. Despite failing to score a quick victory, Putin is not relenting in the face of mounting international pressure, including sanctions that have battered his economy. The Western world is aligned largely against Putin, but there have been no indications he is losing support from the majority of the Russian public that relies predominantly on state-controlled TV for information. AP Russia shelled a health care facility housing the humanitarian aid centre in Kharkiv at 7:45 a.m., The Kyiv Independent reported citing reports of Kharkiv Oblast Police. As per the officials, seven people were injured, four of them died. The resignation of a senior Russian government official and his reported move abroad wasn’t the first voluntary departure of a person from a state job since the start of Russia’s war with Ukraine, but it certainly was one of the most striking. Anatoly Chubais, who was President Vladimir Putin’s envoy to international organizations on sustainable development, is well known in Russia. He held high profile posts for nearly three decades, beginning under Boris Yeltsin, the first post-Soviet leader. A number of public figures have condemned the invasion of Ukraine and left their posts at state-run institutions and companies, which could signal divisions in Russia’s official ranks over the war. So far there have been no indications that the resignations have reached Putin’s inner circle. The handful of departures came as Putin blasted those opposing his course as “scum and traitors,” which Russian society would spit out “like a gnat.” AP Ukrainian authorities in the besieged ruins of Mariupol said Friday that about 300 people died when a Russian airstrike blew up a theatre where hundreds of civilians were sheltering — a catastrophic loss of civilian life that, if confirmed, is likely to further crank up the pressure on Western nations to step up military aid. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke to Prime Minister of Greece Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Friday, where the former thanked him for providing assistance to Kyiv amid the ongoing war. "Talked to the Prime Minister of Greece @kmitsotakis. Told about the humanitarian situation in the blocked cities and thanked him for the help provided by his country. The defence cooperation of Greece and Ukraine was discussed. Talked to the Prime Minister of Greece @kmitsotakis. Told about the humanitarian situation in the blocked cities and thanked for the help provided by his country. The defense cooperation of 🇬🇷 and 🇺🇦 was discussed. — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) March 25, 2022 As the Russia-Ukraine war enters the 30th day, here are the key developments as the Russian troops continue heavy bombardment on civilian cities. Ukrainian Human Rights activists claim that the Russian forces are deliberately targeting civilians. Speaking exclusively to Republic TV, activist Oleksandra Matviichuk said that the Russian troops are failing in their plans to take over Kyiv and was struggling with the Ukrainian people’s resistance. Matviichuk also informed that the city has food, water and electricity required to continue their fight against the Russian invasion. Read the full story here Poland national carrier has announced a direct flight from Warsaw to Mumbai from March 29, according to a statement issued by LOT Polish Airlines. "LOT Polish Airlines is pleased to announce the commencement of passenger flights to Mumbai effective 31st May 2022. Furthermore, the Polish flag carrier resumes passenger flights to Delhi effective 29th March 2022," the airline said, adding that it resumes flights to Delhi after a two-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic situation. Amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin approved Roman Abramovich’s involvement in peace talks, Financial Times reported on Friday. The media report claimed Abramovich met a senior official from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s office to help set up the talks. Amid the ongoing war, the Office of the Prosecutor General of Ukraine said that the Russian forces have killed 135 children since the beginning of the war. Office of the Prosecutor General of #Ukraine: 135 children have died in the country since the beginning of the war. pic.twitter.com/e98JkwRNK6 — NEXTA (@nexta_tv) March 25, 2022 The United States and European Union on Friday announced a new partnership to reduce the continent’s reliance on Russian energy, a step top officials characterized as the start of a years-long initiative to further isolate Moscow after its invasion of Ukraine. U.S. President Joe Biden asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin uses energy to “coerce and manipulate his neighbors” and uses the profits from its sale to “drive his war machine.” Biden said the partnership he announced jointly with a top European Union official will turn that dynamic on its head by reducing Europe’s dependence on Russian energy sources, as well reducing the continent’s demand for gas overall. The president said such a step is not “only the right thing to do from a moral standpoint” but “it’s going to put us on a stronger strategic footing.” Under the plan, the U.S. and other nations will increase liquified natural gas exports to Europe by 15 billion cubic meters this year, though U.S. officials were unable to say exactly which countries will provide the extra energy this year. Even larger shipments would be delivered in the future. . About 300 people died in a Russian airstrike last week on a theater being used as a bomb shelter in the besieged Ukrainian city of Mariupol, the city’s government said Friday, citing eyewitnesses. When the theater was struck March 16, an enormous inscription reading “CHILDREN” was posted outside in Russian, intended to be visible from the skies above. It was not immediately clear whether emergency workers had finished excavating the site or how the eyewitnesses arrived at the horrific death toll. Soon after the airstrike, Ludmyla Denisova, the Ukrainian Parliament’s human rights commissioner, said more than 1,300 people had been sheltering in the building. Mariupol has been the scene of some of the worst devastation of the war, which has seen Russia relentlessly besiege and pummel Ukraine’s cities. The misery inside them is such that nearly anyone who can is trying to leave and those left behind face desperate food shortages in a country once known as the breadbasket for the world. (AP) The United States and the European Union have announced a joint plan to penalise Russia for its action against its neighbouring country, Ukraine. While addressing a joint press conference on Friday, US President Joe Biden and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a series of action plans that have the potential to hurt the Russian economy severely. During the presser, Biden asserted a plan to reduce Europe's dependence on Russian fossil fuels. Both Biden and Ursula has announced the creation of the joint task force in order to cut the bloc’s reliance on Russian imports. "The United States and European Commission confirm our strategic energy cooperation for the security of energy supply and reducing dependence on fossil fuels," read a joint statement released by the EU and the US after the press conference. "We share efforts to make available stable, affordable, reliable and clean energy supplies to citizens and businesses in the EU and its neighbouring partner nations," added the statement. The transatlantic partnership stands stronger than ever. In a world faced with disorder, our unity upholds fundamental values and rules that our citizens believe in. And we are determined to stand up against Russia’s brutal war. https://t.co/EbO9c3R7Mt — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) March 25, 2022 Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that Europe’s measures against Russia were a “little late” and noted that “there was a chance” to stop Moscow from heading towards the war. Addressing the European Council summit in Brussels virtually, the president of the war-torn nation outlined the destruction caused by Russian forces and the damage that Ukrainian cities have witnessed. Zelenskyy also thanked Europe for uniting in their support for Kyiv. In his address to the European Council summit, he told the EU leaders that they acted too late in stopping Russia. The Ukrainian President said, “You have applied sanctions. We are grateful. These are powerful steps…But it was a little late... there was a chance,” while adding that some preventative sanctions would have stopped Russia from going to this war. His remarks came as the Russia-Ukraine war neared a month that had already forced millions of people in the conflict-torn nation to flee their homes. Read more Russia’s war kills 135 children in Ukraine, stated the Ukrainian administration. According to the Prosecutor General’s Office, 184 children have also been injured since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24. US President Joe Biden, during his scheduled visit to Poland, will meet the Ukrainian refugees on Friday, March 25. According to a statement released by the White House on Thursday, Press Secretary Jen Psaki, President Biden will travel to Warsaw, Poland, where he will hold a bilateral meeting with President Andrzej Duda. As per the statement, the United States President will discuss how the United States, alongside the US Allies and partners, is responding to the humanitarian and human rights crisis that has been created due to Russia’s unjustified and unprovoked war on Ukraine. It is worth mentioning Poland has been providing millions of refugees who have been entering the country since Russian President Vladimir Putin started what he termed as a "military operation" on Ukraine. POTUS Biden had attended a NATO Summit in Brussels with NATO Allies, G7 Leaders, and European Union Leaders. Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne in the statement highlighted that they will continue to provide "unwavering support" for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine and will continue to place sanctions on those responsible for the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The Australian government on Friday, 25 March has announced sanctions against 22 "Russian propagandists and disinformation operatives." The government has imposed sanctions on Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and his family members. Australia places additional sanctions on Russia & Belarushttps://t.co/KoN6mIbFe8 — Marise Payne (@MarisePayne) March 25, 2022 Amid Russia’s military onslaught in Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy has given four cities in the country the title of ‘Hero City’ and seven National guard service members the title of ‘hero of Ukraine'. The cities which received the recognition include Bucha, Irpin, Mykolaiv, and Okhtyrka. Additionally, five of the seven service members received the award posthumously as Ukrainian defence forces continue to resist Russian military aggression for 30 days now. Hailing the country’s efforts, especially in the last several weeks of the Russian invasion, Zelenskyy posted what appeared to be a self-shot video. In the clip, he announced the awards for cities and service members and noted, “The country must move towards peace, move forward. With each day of our defence, we are bringing peace we need so much closer. We are bringing victory closer. Because in this war, it is simply impossible for us to not win.” Ukrainian President said, “We can’t stop even for a minute. Because every minute is about our destiny. Our future. About whether we live or not. It’s the 30th day. It’s been a month!” While addressing a press conference after the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) summit and G7 nations meeting, President Biden said that he had a "very straightforward conversation" with Chinese President Xi Jinping last week on the Ukraine crisis. On the possibility of China providing assistance to Russia amid the ongoing war in Ukraine, Biden said that he had a clear conversation with his Chinese counterpart. He said that he had amply informed Xi about the potentially dire economic consequences of China's providing assistance to Russia. "I think that China understands that its economic future is much more closely tied to the West than it is to Russia. And so I am hopeful that he does not get engaged," US President Biden said. Tune in as I hold a press conference about my meetings in Europe with Allies and partners on our response to Russia’s war on Ukraine. https://t.co/KSakZNhnET — President Biden (@POTUS) March 24, 2022 Amid the Russian offensive in Ukraine, people continue to live in fear and buildings have been damaged. Over 3 million people have fled Ukraine, as per UNHCR. Head of Center for Civil Liberties, Ukraine, Oleksandra Matviichuk spoke exclusively to Republic TV from Kyiv as the Russian invasion entered day 30. Speaking about the situation in the city, she revealed that the Russian troops were now targeting civilians to force the Ukrainian administration to stop resistance. “We are struggling in Kyiv for several weeks. However, the Russian troops tried to enter Kyiv and they failed,” Matviichuk said. “In Kyiv, the situation is dangerous because the Russian forces are deliberately shelling residential buildings, forcing the people to leave the city,” the human rights activist told Republic. “Russian troops are deliberately hitting residential buildings in the country. They need more civilian casualties to stop resistance by Ukraine,” Matviichuk added. Read more Ukraine's Center for Strategic Communications and Information Security has revealed that they have stopped 9 enemy attacks, destroyed 12 tanks, about 20 units of armoured and automotive equipment and 9 artillery systems on Thursday. According to the official statement from the war-torn country, Russia has lost more than 200 servicemen. 'Air defence units shot down 2 planes and 2 enemy UAVs,' the statement further added. "Operational information of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on the morning of March 25. A group of joint forces is conducting a defence operation in the Donetsk, Slobozhansky and parts of the Tavriya areas. During the previous day, our soldiers The enemy lost more than 200 servicemen," the statement mentioned. #RepublicExclusive | Russian troops are deliberately hitting residential buildings in Kyiv city. The just need civilian casualties to stop resistance by Ukraine: Ukraine Human Rights Activist Oleksandra Matviichuk tells Republic Tune in here - https://t.co/HAjI0YXkOB pic.twitter.com/lpgPTa0qCO — Republic (@republic) March 25, 2022 Amid escalating Russia-Ukraine war and Mariupol taking the maximum blow of Moscow’s forces, a Ukrainian police general Vyacheslav Abroskin has offered himself as a hostage to Russian troops in exchange for the evacuation of children from the port city. Amid reports stating that Mariupol is 90% destroyed and humanitarian crisis is soaring, Abroskin said in a statement on Thursday that even before the war started in late February, he had promised the residents to defend Mariupol. Underscoring that there are “many children” in Mariupol who will “die in the coming days” if not saved now, the Ukrainian general appealed to the “Russian occupants” to provide him with the opportunity to get the children out of the city. He asked to let him in Mariupol for 3 days and arrange the evacuation of the children. Further emphasising the Russian troops to consider his proposal, the Ukrainian general stated that he is on Moscow’s sanctions list. According to the translated Facebook post, Abroskin said, “I appeal to the Russian occupants - give me the opportunity to get children out of Mariupol, instead of living children I offer myself.” The development was stated by the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. According to her, Vladimir Putin's order to transfer payments for fuel in Russian rubles is blackmail and an attempt to circumvent EU sanctions, reported Nexta. "If Russia had known what it would face in Ukraine, it would have definitely been afraid to come here," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in his latest address. If Russia had known what it would face in Ukraine, it would have definitely been afraid to come here - address by President @ZelenskyyUa ➡️ https://t.co/ilkiTJupJv — Defence of Ukraine (@DefenceU) March 25, 2022 Russia intends to end the war in Ukraine by May 9, revealed intelligence sources from the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. In an operational update shared on Thursday, Ukrainian Armed Forces said that “constant propaganda work” is being carried out in Russia which imposes the idea that the Russia-Ukraine war must be ended by the said date which is widely celebrated in Russia as the day of victory over Nazi Germany. Citing available information, the Ukrainian Army's statement that “there is a constant propaganda work being carried out among the personnel of the Russian Federation's Armed Forces, which imposes the idea that the war must be ended by May 9, 2022.” "It is day 29th of the Ukrainian people's heroic resistance against Russia's military invasion. Despite significant losses and demoralised personnel, the military-political leadership of the Russian federation does not refuse to continue its war against Ukraine. The enemy continues to destroy the infrastructure of peaceful towns and villages of Ukraine, grossly violating the rules of warfare and neglecting to comply with the requirements of international humanitarian law. According to the available information, among the personnel of the armed forces of the Russian federation, propaganda work is constantly being carried out, which imposes the idea that the war must be completed before the 9th of May 2022," the statement read. Ukrainian Parliament appealed to the UN, EU and NATO along with other international organisations to take a range of actions to stop Russia’s military aggression. The lengthy statement shared on the official account of the Ukrainian Parliament stated that some of the laws were also adopted in the plenary meeting, including new customs, tax privileges for Ukrainian businesses and support of the agricultural sector. On March 24, 2022, the Ukrainian Parliament during the plenary meeting appealed to the @UN, #EU, @NATO and other international organizations with a request for more actions to stop the russian military aggression. 👇 1/7 pic.twitter.com/AWirTzhVSu — Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine - Ukrainian Parliament (@ua_parliament) March 24, 2022 "Good night, Europe. Hope you are safe. А month since we are not," the caption read. Good night, #Europe. Hope you are safe. А month since we are not.#StopPutin #StopRussia pic.twitter.com/24Rs4u9UTW — Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine - Ukrainian Parliament (@ua_parliament) March 24, 2022 "Russia must comply with its international obligations and refrain from any activity that imperils nuclear sites, allowing unhindered control by the Ukrainian authorities, as well as full access by and cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency," the G7 leaders’ statement read. "We call for an extraordinary session of the Council of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to address the consequences on world food security and agriculture arising from the Russian aggression against Ukraine," it added. Amid the full-fledged Russia-led invasion of Ukraine, on Friday President Volodymyr Zelenskyy extended his gratitude to the European Union leaders for working together in support of the war-hit nation. He further underscored the heavy sanctions on Moscow, inclusive of Germany's decision to block Russia from delivering natural gas to Europe through the new Nord Stream 2 pipeline. It is pertinent to mention that the Ukrainian President, during his virtual address, lamented that the aforementioned measures against Vladimir Putin could be implemented earlier, implying there was a chance the Kremlin would reconsider invading. In addition, the Ukrainian Head of State appealed to the EU leaders, who assembled in Brussels on Thursday, to move quickly on Ukraine's application to join the bloc. "Here, I ask you, do not delay. Please, Zelenskyy said while adding, "For us, this is a chance." Patrick Lancaster, reporting exclusive for Republic TV, brings to you the ground reality of the war-ravaged nation. Hereby is a gritty visual from a bunker wherein civilians have taken refuge and relief items are being stored. In what appears to be a school's basement, civilians are seen piling up bulky carton boxes with food and relief items amid a full-fledged Russia-led war. As Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy refused to back down, the country's local media claimed that the Russian forces are abandoning Russia. According to the Ukrainian media, Russian soldiers are joining Ukraine to fight the war. On the other hand, President Zelenskyy passed a video message recorded in dark at his presidential palace in Kyiv for public support and urged people to rally on Thursday. Additionally, Pentagon has also claimed that Russia is running out of Ammunitions as the Russia Ukraine war enters Day 30: #BREAKING | Russia is running out of Ammunitions, claims Pentagon as Russia-Ukraine war enters Day 30 Tune in here - https://t.co/HAjI0YXkOB pic.twitter.com/hmPbrCOLMW — Republic (@republic) March 25, 2022 As Ukraine reiterates its call for more military and financial aid from the West, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Thursday announced additional support for Kyiv. During his trip to Brussels, Belgium, Trudeau met the heads of the Groups of Seven (G7) and attended the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Summit to discuss the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and how to put more pressure on Russia. Taking to Twitter, Trudeau said Canada is providing additional funds to UNESCO to defend Ukraine’s cultural and heritage places as the war-torn nation was facing danger and attacks from Russia. In addition, Canada is providing funding to @UNESCO to protect Ukraine’s cultural and heritage sites as they face threats and attacks from Russian forces. More here on what we’ve announced today, and the work we’ve done with our allies and partners: https://t.co/PnUTqvrvQN — Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) March 24, 2022 Amid escalations in the Russia Ukraine war, Belarus' authoritarian leader has warned that the deployment of a Western peacekeeping force in Ukraine could trigger a World War. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, who is a major ally to Russia, slammed a Polish proposal to deploy Western forces in the war-ridden country and said that situation is ‘very tense’. President Lukashenko on Thursday took notice of the Polish administration’s call for the Western forces and noted that it could start World War III. President Alexander Lukashenko, who has allowed his ally Russia to use Belarus' territory to launch an invasion of Ukraine, slammed Poland's offer of a peacekeeping mission made last week, saying “it will mean World War III”. Speaking about the war situation at hand, he said “The situation is very serious and very tense”. NATO urged China along with other states against helping Russia “in any way” as Moscow continues to wage war on Ukraine. At the extraordinary NATO leaders’ summit in Brussels, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday noted that the alliance has activated chemical, biological, and nuclear defence elements considering that Russia did not rule out the possibility of using nuclear weapons or biological weapons in Ukraine. Speaking at the NATO summit, Stoltenberg said, “We call on all states, including the People’s Republic of China (PRC), to uphold the international order" and urged Beijing to "abstain from supporting Russia’s war effort in any way, and to refrain from any action that helps Russia circumvent sanctions.” Today, I announced that the United States will welcome up to 100,000 Ukrainians and others fleeing Russia’s aggression. We’re focused on reuniting families and providing refuge to those in harm’s way, Biden shared. Today, I announced that the United States will welcome up to 100,000 Ukrainians and others fleeing Russia’s aggression. We’re focused on reuniting families and providing refuge to those in harm’s way. — President Biden (@POTUS) March 24, 2022 The devastation of #Mariupol has to be seen to be believed. A previously peaceful city lies in ruins - all because Russia launched an entirely unprovoked war of genocidal scale.#SaveMariupol #StopRussia pic.twitter.com/RWJoD7x7FD — Stratcom Centre UA (@StratcomCentre) March 24, 2022 Russia is running out of Ammunitions, claims Pentagon as Russia-Ukraine war enters Day 30 During NATO leaders' summit in Brussels amid the Russia-Ukraine war, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday urged the allies and partners to ramp up military and humanitarian aid to Kyiv. As Russian shelling continues for the fifth week, the British PM stressed that UK and allies should help Ukraine to bolster their defences and “turn the tide in this fight”. Johnson’s statement came as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) leaders summit took place on Wednesday in Brussels as the Russia-Ukraine war neared a month. The leaders of the alliance, who were also addressed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy virtually, discussed overhauling NATO’s eastern troops. I’m at @NATO where I’ll be urging our allies and partners to step up military and economic support to Ukraine, strengthening their defences as they turn the tide in this fight. We cannot and will not stand by while Russia grinds Ukraine’s towns and cities into dust. 1/6 — Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) March 24, 2022 Russia’s belligerent actions are endangering global sea commerce. We are doing our utmost to protect the shipping. Taking into account the threat of potential false flag operations by Russian navy, we urge all ships, insurers, and crew to avoid Russian ports for their own safety. — Dmytro Kuleba (@DmytroKuleba) March 24, 2022 The first exchange of prisoners between Ukraine and Russia took place on Thursday. For 19 Ukrainian soldiers, 11 Russians were exchanged. ⚡️ The first exchange of war hostages occurred on President @ZelenskyyUa's order. Additionally, today, #Ukraine exchanged 11 Russian sailors we rescued from a sunken ship near #Odesa to 19 Ukrainian sailors (authors of the legendary phrase "Russian warship go f*** yourself") 👇 pic.twitter.com/HavGsHeaF9 — Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine - Ukrainian Parliament (@ua_parliament) March 24, 2022 Ukrainian parliament's official account posted about the extent of destruction in Ukraine in 30 days of the Russian invasion which witnessed the destruction of 4,379 houses. Since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine war on February 24, at least 6.5 million Ukrainians have left their homes, stated the post. STOP RUSSIAN FASCISM! #Europe, don't be silent! Part 1. In a month of the war, 4379 houses were destroyed. 6.5 million Ukrainians left their homes. Thousands were killed, including 121 children. 👇 pic.twitter.com/5eywDN1To6 — Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine - Ukrainian Parliament (@ua_parliament) March 24, 2022 According to Forbes report, the Ukrainian defence has 43 more tanks than at the beginning of the Russian invasion. According to analysts, since the beginning of the war, the Russian army has lost 530 tanks, while the Armed Forces of #Ukraine have lost 74 of their own, but captured 117 enemy tanks. Apart from warning Chinese President Xi Jinping that Beijing could regret siding with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, US President Joe Biden said that China understands that its economic future is “much more closely tied to the west than it is to Russia". In a video message recorded in dark at his presidential palace in Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for public support and urged people to rally on Thursday. He said, "Come to your squares, your streets. Make yourselves visible and heard...Say that people matter. Freedom matters. Peace matters. Ukraine matters". Additionally, the president of the war-torn nation asked NATO to provide "effective and unrestricted" support to Ukraine, including any weapons that Kyiv would need to resist Russia's aggression. He noted that the country is in the 'gray zone' between Russia and the West. "Yes, it is true — we are not in the alliance," Zelenskyy said in prepared remarks. "It feels like we are in the 'gray zone' between the West and Russia. But we defend all our common values. And we are bright people! And we have been defending all these values for a month now! A month of heroic resistance. A month of the darkest suffering."

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Russia-Ukraine War: Biden leaves Presidential Palace, explosion reported near Lviv

US President Joe Biden has reached Poland's capital Warsaw where he will meet two of the Ukrainian top diplomats, the Ukraine Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov. The leaders are due to discuss the evolving situation in Ukraine.