Russia-Ukraine War: Second flight carrying 250 students to land in Delhi on Sunday

Amid escalating tensions in Ukraine, ISKCON has opened the temple gates for needy people in the Eastern European country.

"ISKCON temples all over Ukraine are ready to serve people in need. Our devotees and temples are committed to serving those in distress. Our temple doors are open for service", said Vice-President of ISKCON, Kolkata, Radharaman Das on Saturday.

ISKCON has over 54 temples in Ukraine and our devotees and the temples are trying to serve others in whatever way they can serve. Today morning we got an update from our devotees in Kyiv and by Lord Krishna's grace, all of them are safe and our 54 temples are safe too, said Radharaman.

"When life gives you lemons make lemonade. Our ISKCON devotees in Ukraine are in fact one step ahead. When life throws lemons at them, they make lemonade and share it with others. In these difficult times, our devotees are busy serving others, risking their own lives", stated Vice-President of ISKCON Kolkata.

"In the past also, during the Chechnya war, our devotees served those in distress, specially old people who are stranded in their flats and no one is there to take care of them. Risking their life, the ISCKON devotees have reached out to people. Many have even died serving during the Chechnya war. The same spirit is there during these difficult times and the devotees are working out how best they can serve people stranded in war zones in Ukraine", informed Radharaman Das.

Meanwhile, Raju Gopal Das, a devotee of Kyiv's Hare Krishna temple shared a video on the situation in the city. He said,

"The situation among the devotees is stable. Everyone is afraid and disturbed. We have prepared the temple for devotees."  
To find the nearest temples around you in Ukraine, please visit:https://centres.iskcon.org/centre-region/ukraine.

(ANI)

"It is not a war against Ukraine, it is against democracy. It is important to understand that Russia uses a broad number of aggressive tools to undermine democracies," Former Ukraine PM Oleksiy Honcharuk told Republic in an exclusive interview.

Under Operation Ganga, the second flight from Bucharest has taken off for Delhi carrying 250 Indian nationals, External Affairs Ministers Dr S Jaishankar said.

A senior US defense official says the United States estimates that more than 50 per cent of Russian combat power arrayed along Ukraine's borders has entered Ukraine. 

That is up from a US estimate Friday that one-third of the Russian force had been committed to the fight. 

The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss internal US assessments, would not say how many Russian troops that amounts to inside Ukraine, but the US had estimated the total Russian force arrayed near Ukraine at more than 150,000. 

The official said advancing Russian forces were roughly 30 kilometers outside Kiev as of Saturday, and that an unspecified number of Russian military reconnaissance elements had entered the capital.

Meanwhile, Britain's Defense Ministry said Saturday that the speed of the Russian advance has temporarily slowed likely as a result of acute logistical difficulties and strong Ukrainian resistance. 

Russian forces are bypassing major Ukrainian population centres while leaving forces to encircle and isolate them," the ministry said. 

(AP)
 

Two flights - AI1942 from Bucharest and AI1940 from Budapest -- are scheduled to arrive with rescued citizens in Delhi on Sunday morning

Russian President ordered a temporary halt to the Russian military operation in Ukraine on Friday afternoon in connection with the expectation of negotiations with Kyiv, but the operation was resumed Saturday afternoon after the Ukrainian leadership refused to talk:  Russian state-owned news agency Sputnik

Extending support to Ukraine, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday (local time) called for an end to Russia's involvement in the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications (SWIFT) international payments system, to limit the ability of Russia to trade outside the country.

The Prime Minister said that they have also sent military support to the Polish border with Ukraine along with defensive military aid.

The UK has trained 22,000 Ukrainian troops through Operation Orbital.

"We have imposed sanctions on President Putin, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, five Russian banks, more than 100 companies and oligarchs at the heart of Putin's regime, and Belarus," Johnson said in a tweet.

He further said that the UK has offered a full package of support to NATO to strengthen its eastern flank.

"We are providing 1.100 million for economic reform and energy independence in Ukraine, and guaranteeing up to USD 500 million of Development Bank financing," he added.

The UK has convened the Joint Expeditionary Force, bringing together members from the EU, NATO and Nordic states. He said that the UK has also banned Russian airline Aeroflot.

On Thursday, Johnson had announced new sanctions against Russia over the military operation in Ukraine, saying the UK will aim to "squeeze Russia from the global economy."

Overall, the UK will be imposing freezing of assets on more than a hundred of new entities and individuals, he added.

Ukraine Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Saturday said that France has agreed to supply military equipment to Keiv as well as ban Russia from the SWIFT international banking system.

Earlier today, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged Germany and Hungary to back Russia's expulsion from the SWIFT banking system as Moscow continues its military operation in Ukraine.

Notably, in the early hours on Thursday, Russia launched a special military operation after the recognition of Donetsk and Luhansk.

The Western countries have strongly condemned the Russian military operation and boosted the sanctions pressure on Moscow.

(ANI)

Government standing firmly behind Indians stranded in Ukraine, as part of evacuation efforts, wherever possible, they have been advised to reach borders of four neighbouring countries via land routes: Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi

Government standing firmly behind Indians stranded in Ukraine, as part of evacuation efforts, wherever possible, they have been advised to reach borders of four neighbouring countries via land routes: Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi

On bringing Indians from Ukraine, an Air India Flight attendant said, "We are very happy to bring our students back home. The students were filled with joy once we landed here in Mumbai. Thanks to the Government of India for giving us this opportunity."

Union Minister Piyush Goyal welcomes Indian students evacuated from Ukraine at Mumbai Airport

The United Kingdom's Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force deployed to bolster NATO's eastern front, tweets UK Ministry of Defence.

The first evacuation flight carrying 219 passengers from Ukraine, has landed in Maharashtra's Mumbai. The plane had taken off from the Romanian capital Bucharest this afternoon.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday said efforts are being made to safely evacuate people from the state stranded in different cities of Ukraine due to the ongoing Russian military offensive through Poland and other available routes.

"Parents and relatives of 188 people stuck in Ukraine have provided information about them on the toll free numbers so far. All efforts are being made to safely evacuate them through Poland and other countries as flight operations in Ukraine have been suspended following the crisis," Dhami told reporters here.

He also advised parents and guardians of those stranded in Ukraine not to panic as all efforts are being made at the highest level to secure the safe evacuation of all Indian citizens from the crisis-ridden country.

"We are in constant touch with the Ministry of External Affairs. I talked to National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Friday. He also assured us about the safe evacuation of everyone from Uttarakhand stuck in Ukraine," Dhami said.

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.

Some videos also surfaced on social media where students from Uttarakhand holed up in bunkers in Ukraine were talking about the conditions there.

"We along with hundreds of other Indians have been holed up in this bunker for one-and-a-half days. All we can hear is intermittent explosions. The Indian diplomats here have told us to wait. They have told us nothing about how we will be evacuated," a student from Haldwani stranded in Ukraine was heard saying in a video.

(PTI)

Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation will provide free services to all the students returning from Ukraine today. We will provide them free Covid testing, vaccines, food and all other facilities: Mumbai Mayor Kishori Pednekar

Highly appreciate India’s independent and balanced position at the voting in the UNSC on Feb 25. In the spirit of the special and privileged strategic partnership, Russia is committed to maintain close dialogue with India on the situation around Ukraine: Russian Embassy in India

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Ukraine President briefed the PM in detail about the ongoing conflict situation in Ukraine. PM expressed his deep anguish about the loss of life and property due to the ongoing conflict," said PMO.

It added, "He reiterated his call for an immediate cessation of violence and a return to dialogue, and expressed India’s willingness to contribute in any way towards peace efforts."

Furthermore, PMO informed, "PM Modi reiterated his call for an immediate cessation of violence and a return to dialogue, and expressed India’s willingness to contribute in any way towards peace efforts."

US Department of Defense to provide an additional $350 million in immediate military assistance to Ukraine to help defend itself from Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified war: US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken

Union Minister Piyush Goyal will receive the Indian nationals safely evacuated from Ukraine at Mumbai airport. 

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Saturday spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Taking to the microblogging site, Zelenskyy informed about the course of Ukraine repulsing Russia's aggression. He informed that more than 100,000 Russian troops have entered the country. He also urged India to politically support them in UN Security Council. 

kremlin has claimed that Ukraine’s leadership has rejected negotiations. On Friday, Kremlin had announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to send a delegation to hold talks with Kyiv

Russian flag spotted in Melitopol in Ukraine even as latter denies losing control of any big city. Earlier in the day, the Russian Defense Ministry claimed that the country's forces have taken complete control of Melitopol city - located in Ukraine's southern part.

Amid chaos and confusion, 21-year-old medical student Mehul Rathore and his elder sister Meghna travelled in a bus for 200 kilometres from the Ukrainian city of Ternopil and walked for around 20 kilometres at night in freezing cold to reach the Ukraine-Poland border to seek safe shelter in Poland, but they have no option other than waiting in a long queue, that too in uncertainty.

This is the situation of a few hundred others who are somehow reaching the Shehyni-Medyka border, only to face chaos and get stranded as they are not being allowed to cross the border, which is witnessing huge gatherings of people wanting safe shelter.

At a distance of 630 kilometres from this border, Ayushi Vishnoi, her friends and many others are stuck in a hostel building in Kyiv, witnessing bombing, hearing frequent sirens and switching between the rooms and the underground bunkers, silently praying to god to keep them safe.

While the Poland border is comparatively safe from bombing, the situation in Kyiv is horrific with rocket strikes and bombing.

Like Mehul, Meghna and Ayushi, there are thousands of Indian students, including hundreds from Rajasthan, who are panic-stricken, worried and facing difficulties in evacuation.

"We are in the age group of 18-21 years. We came here just two months ago.... We are not prepared to face this...not at all. We are worried, our parents are worried, we want to go back home, anyhow," Ayushi, who is from Jodhpur, told PTI over the phone.

On the verge of bursting out in tears, she said five explosions were heard on Friday night and a rocket struck very close to the hostel building.

"Many students have reached the Poland border, but there is no advisory for the students stuck in Kyiv. We want a safe passage to the border and the Indian embassy should arrange this. I have tried so many times but could not get through the helpline number provided by the embassy. I shared my details and explained the situation on a WhatsApp number. The message was seen, but there was no reply," the student of the National Medical University in Kyiv said.

"We are getting regular updates from friends and others in WhatsApp groups. Our family members are trying their level best to coordinate with us and the authorities for ensuring our safe return.

"This is worse than the situation we faced during the initial days of the coronavirus pandemic. It is a bigger nightmare," she added.

Mehul said amid uncertainty, they left Ternopil at 3 pm on Friday and managed to get a bus to the border, but due to a massive traffic jam, they had to walk for around 20 kilometres to reach near the border, where there were long queues.

"We were informed that Poland will allow us to enter, so we rushed. We paid fares that were seven to eight times higher. Some even paid 20 times higher fares to reach the border. Since there was a long traffic jam, we had to walk for 20 kilometres. Somehow we reached a place near the border at 3 am (local time) on Saturday. Since then, we have been standing in a queue. We are not being allowed to cross the border," he said, adding that they are stranded at a distance of nearly three kilometres from the border.

Meanwhile, in Rajasthan, the family members of hundreds of students are contacting the Centre as well as the state government, requesting them to make arrangements for their children to return home. They are constantly monitoring the situation on television and the internet.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has directed officials to make all possible efforts to facilitate the students and their families. 

He has announced that the airfare of the Rajasthani students coming back from Ukraine will be reimbursed.

"During the war situation between Ukraine and Russia, after the advisory of the Ministry of External Affairs, the ticket amount of Rajasthanis coming back to their homeland at their personal expenses will be reimbursed," Gehlot said in a tweet.

He has also directed the officials to facilitate the Rajasthanis arriving from Ukraine in Delhi, Mumbai and at other airports.

Dheeraj Srivastava, Commissioner of the Rajasthan Foundation, said there are 600 to 800 students from the state who are stuck in Ukraine and the foundation has shared their details with the Ministry of External Affairs.

"Apart from Rajasthan, we are getting calls and requests from many people from several other states, seeking help for their relatives or students stuck in Ukraine. Apart from the central government authorities, we are in touch with migrant Rajasthanis in Poland, Hungary, Romania and other countries to facilitate evacuation," he said.

(PTI)

The U.S. Embassy urged its citizens to leave Belarus immediately in connection with the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Some Russian troops have been captured by the Ukrainian army. The update was shared by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Twitter. "Mothers, wives, daughters of Russian soldiers! Take your men home. They came to a foreign land to kill innocent people, to destroy our homes. Your power is lying. The people of Ukraine meet them with weapons, not flowers. Demand from the authorities to stop the war of conquest, save your loved ones!" he said.

The Embassy of India in Hungary issues advisory for Indians to be evacuated from Ukraine via Hungary.

Russian troops wearing Ukrainian uniforms were detained by Ukrainian forces in Nikopol.

Ukraine's capital city Kyiv has toughened curfew as Russia tries to capture the city. The Mayor of Kyiv said that violators will be considered 'enemies'.

Russia has launched air raids in Kharkiv in its attempt to make a deeper invasion. Heavy explosions were witnessed in the Kharkiv region. Shelling was also reported in Akhtyrka.

Due to the inflow of refugees from Ukraine amid Russia's invasion, Slovakia has imposed a state of emergency.

A Russian cargo ship has been seized in the English Channel by French authorities, a Ukrainian news agency informed. Officials said it could belong to a Russian company suspected of violating trade sanctions linked to the war in Ukraine.

A UN refugee agency said that nearly 120,000 Ukrainians have fled Ukraine into neighbouring countries amid Russia's invasion. The agency expects up to 4 million Ukrainians could flee if the situation deteriorates further 116,000 have crossed international borders as of right now, Shabia Mantoo, the spokeswoman of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, said.

The Embassy of India in Slovakia issues advisory for Indians to be evacuated through the Uzhhorod-Vysne Nemecke border.

Video of a captured Russian soldier being interrogated by Ukraine forces accessed as Russia continues its attack in Ukraine.

Russian forces have continued their advance on Kyiv with the bulk of their forces now 30km from the centre of the city. Ukrainian Armed Forces continue to put up staunch resistance across the country: UK Ministry of Defence
 

Poland is refusing to play its World Cup qualifier against Russia next month in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the Polish soccer federation president said Saturday.

Cezary Kulesza made the announcement on Twitter and indicated Poland was in talks with other federations to present a unified position to FIFA.

"No more words, time to act! Kulesza wrote, saying the move was prompted by the escalation of the aggression.

Poland striker Robert Lewandowski, the nation's all-time leading scorer, immediately responded to say it's the right decision!

"I can't imagine playing a match with the Russian National Team in a situation when armed aggression in Ukraine continues, the Bayern Munich star said on Twitter. Russian footballers and fans are not responsible for this, but we can't pretend that nothing is happening.

Previously, Poland had only said it didn't want to play the qualifying playoff semifinal in Moscow on March 24.

The winner plays Sweden or the Czech Republic for a place at the Qatar World Cup.

Russian troops pressed toward Ukraine's capital Saturday, after a night of explosions and street fighting that sent Kyiv residents seeking shelter underground.

It was not immediately clear how far Russian troops had advanced. Ukrainian officials reported some success in fending off assaults, but fighting persisted near the capital.

(AP) 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in a Twitter post announced that a "crucial moment" has arrived for his country to decide on his country's membership in the European Union.  "It is a crucial moment to close the long-standing discussion once and for all and decide on Ukraine's membership in the EU," he tweeted. Zelenskyy also stated that he has held a dialogue with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who has agreed to provide Kyiv with further effective assistance, also acknowledged 'heroic struggle' of Ukrainians for their free future.

Intense shelling on Saturday hit the bridge that connects Russian-held rebel areas and Ukraine, according to the on ground reports. Missiles fell in the city of Kherson, Ukraine, north of the Crimean peninsula since 8 am and the bridge which connects Russian-held areas to Ukraine was enveloped in thick plumes of smoke as vegetation around was set ablaze from the attack. 

The 122-mm D-30 howitzers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine were spotted in residential areas of Severodonetsk. 

[Credit: Twitter/@intel1osint100]

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine on Saturday asked the countries in the world to "fully isolate" Russia on the global stage. He said on Twitter: “I demand the world: fully isolate Russia, expel ambassadors, the oil embargo, ruin its economy. Stop Russian war criminals!”

Russia's communications regulator Roskomnadzor has threatened its media outlets from running LIVE coverage of the Ukrainian invasion. Moscow warned over 10 outlets of "falsely depicting what Russia calls a special military operation in Ukraine, and publishing false information." In a punitive measure, Russia censured sites for referring Ukraine's invasion as an “attack, invasion, or a declaration of war." Moscow threatened it will snap the coverage of media outlets and slap fines of up to 5m roubles.

Cyprus has agreed with the proposal to block Russia from the SWIFT network that facilitates cross-border payments. Germany, Italy, Hungary, and Cyprus had earlier blocked Russia's disconnection from the international interbank system. Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba, took to Twitter saying that he spoke with Italy, Germany, and Belgium – where SWIFT is located. Cyprus’ backing is significant because it is a major destination for Russian investment, he informed. 

Russia's defense ministry said on Saturday that it launched cruise missiles against Ukraine's forces that 'exclusively' targeted military infrastructure and not civilians'. The statement comes as Republic Media Network on the ground witnessed an attack on the residential high-rise near Kyiv struck by a missile or rocket fire.

"During the night, the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation launched a strike with long-range precision weapons using air- and sea-launched cruise missiles against Ukrainian military infrastructure facilities," Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov said in a video statement.

"I emphasize once again that the fire is directed only on the objects of the military infrastructure of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, excluding damage to residential and social infrastructure."

The Ukraine’s civilian death toll has reached to at least 198, including three children among the dead, Ukrainian health ministry said, according to Interfax news agency. 1,115 have been critically injured, including 33 children. Loud explosions are being reported in the Ukrainian capital as the intense assault is ongoing between Ukraine and Russian troops on the ground. 

Russian air support has bombed a residential building in Kyiv, ANI reported. The attack on the civilian infrastructure comes after Ukraine a missile attack unleashed inside Kyiv earlier today. An adviser to the Interior Minister told agencies no casualties was reported. 

France will convene an emergency national defence council meeting at 0900 CET,  the French presidency has announced. The meeting was called after the Russian troops advanced into the civilian cities inside Ukraine. In a statement, the French presidential palace said that President Emmanuel Macron spoke to Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who requested for intervention and support for his nation. 

India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Saturday said that India is making progress for the evacuation of the Indian students from Ukraine. “Our teams are working on the ground round the clock. I am personally monitoring,” he announced in a Twitter post. The first flight to Mumbai with 219 Indian nationals has taken off from Romania, he said. 

EU Ambassador to India, Ugo Astuto, has said that India will put forward a UN General Assembly resolution to demand immediate withdrawal of Russian forces, ANI reported. Russia had used its veto power at the UNSC that prevents the Security Council from fulfilling its role. "We will put forward a UN General Assembly resolution to demand immediate withdrawal of Russian forces," informed Astuto .

Republic reports LIVE from Lobonovsky Avenue in Ukraine's Kyiv where a Russian Missile struck a high-rise residential building in 16th and 17th floors.

Chinese diplomat has defended the country's long-standing position on protecting national sovereignty while adding that it "applies to the Ukraine issue". Liu Xiaoming, the Chinese government's special representative on Korean peninsula affairs wrote, "China firmly believes that the sovereignty & territorial integrity of all countries should be respected & protected and the purposes & principles of (the UN Charter) abided by in real earnest. This position of China is consistent & clear-cut, and applies equally to the Ukraine issue".

After Zelensky said that weapons and assistance are 'on the way' for Ukraine, Netherlands has said that it will send at least 200 anti-aircraft missiles to Ukraine. 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke with President of the European Council Charles Michel as Russian forces continued to attack Kyiv. In the same conversation, Zelinsky called don EU to decide on Ukraine's membership of the bloc.

Over 80 Ukrainian Border Guards who surrendered on Zmeiny Island have been delivered to Sevastopol, reported Sputnik citing Russia's Black Sea Fleet.

Ukrainian foreign Minister Dmitry Kuleba has said that a residential building in Kyiv has been hot by Russian missiles. In a Twitter update, he said, “Kyiv, our splendid, peaceful city, survived another night under attacks by Russian ground forces, missiles. One of them has hit a residential apartment in Kyiv. I demand the world: fully isolate Russia, expel ambassadors, oil embargo, ruin its economy. Stop Russian war criminals!”

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky's adviser has said on Saturday that country's forces have fended off attacks by the Russian military even though the Russian Defence Ministry continued to claim that it has captured several cities in the neighbouring nation. 

The Russian military has said that it has destroyed at least eight Ukrainian naval vessels as fighting on street continues between both sides. 
 

Indian students in Ukraine are now en route to Bucharest to board the Air India flight which landed in Romania this morning.

Russian defence ministry has claimed that its forces have captured the city of Melitopol just hours after Ukrainian armed forces said that no major city fell to the 'enemy' troops.

After speaking with French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said, "Weapons and equipment from our partners are on the way to Ukraine. The anti-war coalition is working!"

In the latest capture by the Russian military, Kyiv hydroelectric plant fell to the army. It is to note here that Russia had previously claimed that it is only targeting the Ukrainian army establishments as it continues to launch attacks on its neighbour for the third day.

United States President Joe Biden signed a memorandum to release up to $600 million in assistance for Ukraine amid war with Russia. Out of the total amount, at least $250 million is in overall assistance and the remaining $350 "in defence articles and services of the Department of Defense, and military education and training, and to make the determinations required under such section to direct such a drawdown."

Reports have stated that a Japanese cargo ship was shelled in the Black Sea, where Russian troops are present. Japanese media stated that country's cargo ship was hit by a 'missile' off Ukraine's coast.

Even though Belarus has denied its involvement in the Russia-Ukraine war, clips have emerged showing military equipment being transported in Belarus towards Russia. In the wake of recent developments, Japan is mulling to impose sanctions on Belarus.

In an update as of 6:00 AM on 26 February, the Ukraine army said "he enemy started relocation of reserve units in the border with Ukraine regions and continues to strike aviation strikes at airports, grouping forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in eastern Ukraine and in the northern part of Kyiv region. Zdíjneno poodinokí aviation strikes in the areas of Sumy, Poltava, Mariupol. From the Black Sea, the enemy launched the winged missiles of the sea base Calibre across Ukraine."

"The management of tactical aviation actions of the Russian Federation takes place from the territory of Belarus and TOT Crimea. There are battalion tactical groups of 35 general military army of the Eastern Armed Forces in the area of MOZYRIA, which can be used to attack objects in Ukraine," it added. 

A special flight of Air India AI-1943 lands at Bucharest in Romania for the evacuation of stranded Indians. The plane had departed from the Mumbai airport on Saturday morning around 3:40 AM. Meanwhile, Indian nationals who reached the Ukraine-Romania border by road were being taken to Bucharest by Indian government officials so that they can be evacuated in the Air India flight, the senior government officials had noted.

Image: File Photo

Kyiv officials have warned the residents to seek shelter as street fighting is now underway between Ukrainian and Russian forces. Explosions have been reported around Kyiv since dawn on Saturday with Ukraine's army claiming that no major city is yet under Russia's control.

In view of rising tensions in the region, the Indian Air Force said that it has decided not to deploy its aircraft for Exercise Cobra Warrior 2022 in UK.

Amid the ongoing crisis, some of the students who are presently in Ukraine spoke exclusively to Republic TV and narrated their ordeal and the challenges they have been facing. One of the students who is a medical student from a University in Kharkiv said that they were on their way to the airport when they got to know about the explosions being carried out in all the places. "We could not go back neither could we speak to the driver about this and had no option other than moving forward towards the airport. But to our dismay, we later got to know that our flights were also cancelled as the Ukrainian airspace was suspended", he said. 

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US President Joe Biden has reportedly instructed Secretary of State Antony Blinken to release around the $350 million in immediate support to Ukraine's security and defence, said White House in a new memo on Friday (local time). The latest aid by the US for Ukraine is the third drawdown of money. Earlier assistance included  $60 million and $250 million taking the total order over a billion dollars. 

As Russia continues to round up on the entire Ukraine, air raid alerts went off at various cities including Lviv, Lutsk, Uman, Vinnytsia, Rivne. nations across the globe have been calling on both sides to de-escalate as civilian and military casualties continue to increase. In Kyiv, as per reports, sounds of gunfire are being heard from different directions.

Ukraine's general staff of armed forces has said that 'No major city of Ukraine is in the hands of Russia' and added that Moscow is 'facing stiff resistance.' Earlier, the Ukrainian general staff of armed forces said on Saturday, "Currently, heavy battles are ongoing in the city of Vasylkiv in the Kyiv region, where occupants are trying to land paratroopers from the air.

"Active combat is now taking place on the streets of Kyiv. Everywhere the enemy gets a decent cut and suffers losses. In particular, near the metro Berestejska destroyed a column of 2 cars, 2 trucks with combat equipment and a tank," it also said.

As Ukraine gears up its unity against Russian aggression and leaders urge the citizens to stand ground, one television channel broadcast instructions on how to make Molotov cocktails on Friday. According to CNN, the Ukrainian TV channel segment showed a person creating the makeshift explosive with the steps including the pouring of coloured liquid into a glass bottle.  A diagram was also broadcasted which showed on the side showing how to stopper the bottle with a cloth wick. Earlier on Friday, Ukrainian Defence Ministry had tweeted that citizens should "make Molotov cocktails and take down the occupier" as Russian forces inch closer to Kyiv.

As Russian attacks are being reported in Kyiv, the air raid alarm also went off on Lutsk. Meanwhile, the head of the public council at the Odessa Yeah Sergei Bratchuk said that the Ukrainian military said that it has captured two saboteurs near Koblevo in the Odessa region. 

According to a network monitoring organisation, the Ukrainian internet is experiencing serious disruptions amid clashes with Russian forces. While disruptions began on Thursday elsewhere in the country, it reached Kyiv with a “major disruption” registered to GigaTrans, Ukraine’s “backbone internet provider... which supplies connectivity to several other networks”.

“While connectivity does remain available through other routes, the incident is likely to have a significant impact on infrastructure, limiting citizens’ ability to communicate,” it said.

Natalia Balasynovich, Mayor of Vasilkiv, a town just 35 kilometres south of Kyiv, said that fierce fighting was taking place in the middle of the town. While speaking on the Ukrainian parliament channel early Saturday, Balasynovich said, "It is completely occupied with fighting". She even added that there were casualties on Ukrainian side "many wounded, unfortunately, they are in the 200s."

Australia has sanctioned all 339 Russian members of parliament and is also considering sanctions against Russian President Vladimir Putin due to its actions in Ukraine. Australian Foreign minister Marise Payne on Saturday also announced sanctions against eight Russian oligarchs close to Putin. Additionally, Australia is also mulling sanctions against Belarusian government officials.

United States embassy for Ukraine warned Americans that "“conditions may deteriorate without warning" and advised them to locate the nearest shelters. The tweet said, “The security situation throughout Ukraine remains highly volatile, and conditions may deteriorate without warning. US citizens should remain vigilant and know the location of your closest shelter or protected space."

In a historic first, NATO Response Force has been activated as a defensive measure in response to Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine. NATO Supreme Allied Commander Gen. Tod Wolters activated the multinational force consisting of land, air, sea and special operations forces from the allies. These forces can be deployed swiftly in a bid to support the NATO alliance. It is to note that that activation of NATO response Force does not mean US or NATO troops will go into Ukraine, which is not a member of the alliance. 

From working in the Ukrainian parliament to 'learning' to use arms, lawmaker Kira Rudik said, "Then you know you have to do something".  While speaking to CNN a day after she posted an image with a rifle in hand on Twitter, Rudik said, "That’s when you get a gun and you learn how to shoot it. You understand you have to get a group of resistance, which we did, and now we are helping our army to fight Russian soldiers who are trying to take Kyiv right now as I am talking to you".

According to her, as Russia continues to launch nighttime offensives on Ukraine, civilians learning the usage of arms is "new reality". Rudik further said, "We are not leaving. This is our town and this is our country, and no Putin soldiers will tell us how to live". 

Earlier, on Twitter, while posting the image with 'powerful message', the Ukrainian parliamentarian said, "I learn to use Kalashnikov and prepare to bear arms. It sounds surreal as just a few days ago it would never come to my mind. Our women will protect our soil the same way as our #men. Go Ukraine!"

In a joint statement after the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution on Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, the members said, "UN Charter has purpose of preventing a war like the one President Putin just started.We've a responsibility to stand up to this violation as Russia is a Permanent Mem of Security Council who's culpable".

"Will take this matter to the General Assembly, where Russian veto doesn't apply & the nations of the world will continue to hold Russia accountable. Russia can't veto UN Charter. It can't, &will not veto accountability: Jt Statement by nations that voted in favour of resolution," it added.

India on Saturday issued a new advisory for Indian nationals. students in Ukraine as Russia continues to launch an offensive. in a statement, the Indian embassy in Ukraine advised the citizens not to move to border check posts without prior coordination with GoI & embassy officials via helpline numbers.

As the world continues to react to the Russia-Ukraine war, Guatemala has recalled its ambassador from Russia. Guatemala's President Alejandro Giammattei said on Friday that he had ordered the return of Guisela Atalida Godinez Sazo. He also said that the central American nation rejected Russia’s actions in Ukraine. 

As Russia continues to attack Kyiv from almost all directions, it also launched attacks in Nova Kakhovka. Fightings are also reportedly continuing in  Kherson in southern Ukraine. 

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on Friday said that the Russian troops were not targeting the Ukrainian cities but "putting the Ukrainian Armed Forces' infrastructure out of operation". In a series of tweets, she alleged that the Kyiv government was ignoring the peaceful settlement of the Donbass region for the last 8 years and accused Ukraine of killing its own people who were living in the disputed region. "The Russian Armed Forces are not targeting Ukrainian cities in the special military operation, but putting the Ukrainian Armed Forces' infrastructure out of operation," said Zakharova. 

As the sky above Kyiv witnessed several airstrikes, reports have suggested that heavy fighting appears to be about eight miles west of central Kyiv. Meanwhile, clashes also continue in the western district of Kyiv.

Earlier on Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky posted a video on Facebook from Kyiv and said, "we're all here" as Russia continues its attack on Ukraine. In the self-shot video, Zelensky was seen standing alongside his prime minister, chief of staff and other senior aides outside the presidency building, Ukrainian President said, "We're all here. Our military is here. Citizens in society are here. We're all here defending our independence, our country, and it will stay this way."

The rest of the group chimed in: "Glory to heroes!"

Vowing to remain in Kyiv even as explosions are being reported near the city, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday said, “Our main goal is to finish this slaughter. The enemy losses are very grave — today there were hundreds of killed soldiers who crossed our border and came on our land” but added, “Unfortunately, we also suffer losses”. He also said, “There is nothing that could possibly explain why the kindergartens and civilian infrastructure are being shelled”.

CNN reported citing two US officials that there has been no direct communication between US and Russian militaries in a bid to avoid any potential miscalculations in and around Ukraine. But, the US is still seeking to communicate with Moscow as the Russian military continues to unleash a massive offensive against Ukraine. In recent weeks, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Justin spoke with several other Russian counterparts but not since Putin announced the military operation on its neighbouring nation. It is to note that US forces are deployed in a number of European nations.

Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has said that the Ukrainian side had countered with a proposal to meet in Warsaw before dropping contact. However, these claims by Russia were dismissed by Zeklensky’s spokesperson. Nykyforov said, “We agreed to the proposal of the President of the Russian Federation. Currently, during these hours, the parties [are discussing] the place and time of the negotiation process. The sooner negotiations begin, the better the chances of resuming normal life.”

As per reports, the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's spokesperson Sergii Nykyforov on Friday night said, “Ukraine has been and remains ready to talk about a ceasefire and peace. This is our constant position”. Nykyforov’s remarks came after Russia proposed to send representatives to the Belarusian capital of Minsk to start a dialogue with Kyiv. 

India and China on Friday refrained from voting at the UN Security Council (UNSC) resolution that "deplores" the Russian attack against Ukraine. The resolution condemned Moscow's "aggression" against Kyiv, demanding "immediate, complete and unconditional" withdrawal of Russian troops from the neighbouring country. While eleven countries voted in favour of the resolution, India along with China & UAE abstained from voting. 

US President Joe Biden’s administration on Friday (local time) announced new sanctions against more Russian officials even beyond President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. These officials included members of the Russian National Security Council, Defence Minister, among other senior Russian government staff. US Treasury Department said in a statement, “Treasury has previously designated eleven members of the Russian Security Council and will continue to impose costs on the ruling elite as Russia prosecutes this brutal war of choice”.

Loud explosions were reported to the west and south of Kyiv on Saturday,  the third day of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Earlier, Ukrainian armed forces had reported heavy fighting around asylkiv, a city located about 18 miles south of the country's capital, Kyiv. The armed forces had said, “Heavy fighting is currently underway in the town of Vasylkiv in the Kyiv region, where the occupiers are trying to land a landing party”. It is also to note here that Russian forces have been advancing towards Kyiv from both the north and the east. The explosions in Kyiv were also reported just slightly after 2 AM (local time) on Saturday.