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Thu, 24 February 2022
UK mounts sanctions on Russia, to ban Aeroflot
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23:45 UK mounts sanctions on Russia, to ban Aeroflot
Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday announced an imminent ban on the ability of the Aeroflot airline to operate in the UK as he outlined a new tranche of sanctions against Russia following President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine.
The "largest and most severe package' of economic sanctions against Russia tabled in the House of Commons includes a full asset-freeze of Russian state-owned bank VTB and powers to allow the UK to exclude Russian banks from Britain's financial system.
The UK government is set to place a limit on the amount that Russian nationals can deposit in their UK bank accounts and Russian state and private companies will be banned from raising money in the UK.
"These trade sanctions will constrain Russia's military, industrial and technological capabilities for years to come," said Johnson.
Legislation to enforce some of these wide-ranging sanctions will be laid in Parliament by early next week.
"Putin will stand condemned in the eyes of the world, and of history. He will never be able to cleanse the blood of Ukraine from his hands," Johnson said in Parliament.
"Now we see him for what he is, a blood-stained aggressor who believes in imperial conquest," he said. -- PTI
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23:22 Empty train coach catches fire in Rajatshan town
An unoccupied coach of a special train caught fire at Motipura Railway Station in Baran where it was halted on Thursday afternoon, an official in Kota said.
The fire was extinguished within 25 minutes of reporting the matter and there was no human injury or loss of life, however the coach sustained considerable damage, the official said.
A 19-coach special train had brought an inspection team comprising a railway safety commissioner and others on Thursday morning.
The train was stationary, when around 3.20 pm its third coach suddenly caught fire, senior DCM, Kota division, Ajay Kumar Pal said.
Noticing the fire, the railway staff swung into action and put the fire out with the help of fire tenders rushed to the spot, Pal said.
The fire-hit coach was immediately detrained from other coaches to prevent the spread of fire, he said. A five-member committee comprising junior administrative grade officers has been constituted to probe into the incident and would submit its report in next few days, Pal added.
The doubling work of railway track between Motipura and Rutiyai on Kota-Bena railway line is underway to inspect which a team had arrived Thursday morning. -- PTI
22:58 Modi speaks to Putin, advocates dialogue with NATO
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday night spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin, soon after holding a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security.
President Putin briefed the prime minister about the recent developments regarding Ukraine.
The prime minister reiterated his long-standing conviction that the differences between Russia and NATO can only be resolved through honest and sincere dialogue, the Prime Minister's Office said.
Prime Minister Modi also sensitised Russian President Putin about India's concerns regarding the safety of Indian citizens in Ukraine, especially students, and conveyed that India attaches the highest priority to their safe exit and return to India, the PMO said.
PM Modi and President Putin agreed that their officials and diplomatic teams would continue to maintain regular contacts on issues of topical interest, the PMO said.
22:21 Contact numbers of MEA evacuation team for Indians issued
To assist in the evacuation of Indian nationals from Ukraine, India's ministry of external affairs teams from @IndiaInHungary, @IndiainPoland, @IndiaInSlovakia & @eoiromania are on their way to the adjoining land borders with Ukraine.
Indian nationals in Ukraine near the border points can contact these teams in the numbers given in the list.
Foreign secretary Harsh V Shringla
22:15 Indians in Kyiv maybe evacuated by road: MEA
The ministry of external affairs on Thursday unveiled its plan to evacuate citizens stuck in Ukraine.
"We will handle the evacuation with utmost precaution. Roadways have been mapped out to evacuate Indian nationals from Kyiv and reach safer places," Foreign Secretary Harsh V Shringla told a media briefing.
"We are in touch with the ministry of defence to keep provision for airlift (of Indians) capacity, in regard to the situation in Ukraine," Shringla added.
On the diplomatic front, he said, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar is expected to speak to the Ukrainian foreign minister today, as well as foreign ministers of Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Hungary.
"Some sanctions have been imposed on Russia by the UK, the US, Australia, Japan among others. We have to see what impact these sanctions will have on our interests. Any sanctions will have an impact on our relationship, I think it would be correct to acknowledge that," Shringla stated in the media briefing.
"Our embassy in Ukraine continues to be functional. A number of advisories have been issued by embassies on the situation as it evolves. We're consulting universities, student contractors in the process of providing welfare and safety of our students.
"We started the registration of Indian nationals in Ukraine about a month ago. Based on online registration, we found that 20,000 Indian nationals were there," Shringla said.
Some 4000 Indian nationals have already left Ukraine in the past few days, and the MEA control room in Delhi has got 980 calls and 850 emails,' the foreign secretary stated.
21:32 Pity India has gone silent on Ukraine: Tharoor
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Thursday accused the government of going silent on the matter in the aftermath of the Russian military operation in Ukraine and said that "it is a pity."
Speaking to ANI, Tharoor said, "Russia is a friend and there could be some legitimate security concerns but for India to go suddenly silent on it will be seen as a disappointment by Ukraine and its friends. It's a pity that India has gone silent."
He further said that India has consistently upheld these principles -- the inviolability of sovereign borders and the inadmissibility of change through force and violence that countries are not supposed to go and achieve their objectives by invading other countries. That's why diplomacy was invented and the importance of establishing the principle that no country has to right to conduct regime change in another country.
Tharoor, who formerly served as chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs from 2014 to 2019, said, "It does not reflect well when a country like India who aspires for UN Security Council seat goes completely silent on internationally recognised principles."
Tharoor also said that Ukraine's request to India to intervene in the matter is "completely understandable."
"Our stand has been that we do not support invading other countries and regime change through violence and war," he added.
The Congress MP also said, "We have carefully chosen not to blame anyone and we have carefully chosen to say nothing either about an invasion or an attack or to point any fingers at Russia."
"A de-escalation implies that there are two sides fighting and you want them both to calm down. But in this case, that is not the reality. The reality is that one side has attacked another, had sent troops from one country to another. This is not the situation where we can request both sides to de-esclate. We have to ask the Russian to stop what they are doing. We have to remind the Russian that they are violating the principles that matter to us," the Congress MP noted.
-- ANI
21:02 Russian forces trying to seize Chornobyl: Ukraine
The Russian occupation forces are trying to seize Chornobyl, said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Thursday.
"Our defenders are giving their lives so that the tragedy of 1986 will not be repeated. Reported this to Swedish PM. This is a declaration of war against the whole of Europe," said Zelenskyy. -- ANI
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20:16 Sri Lankan high commissioner visits RSS headquarters in Nagpur
Sri Lanka's high commissioner to India Milinda Moragoda on Thursday visited the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh headquarters in Mahal area in Nagpur.
He met RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat during the visit, a senior Sangh functionary told PTI.
The high commissioner also visited the Smruti Mandir in Reshimbagh, which houses RSS founder Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgewar's memorial. -- PTI
20:00 PM Modi chairs CCS meeting on Ukraine crisis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently chairing a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Home Minister Amit Shah are members of the CCS.
On the CCS's agenda is Russia's attack on Ukraine, its fallout, and India's response.
Details soon.
19:43 Russian invasion of Ukraine
Russian President Vladimir Putin said special military operations are being launched 'to protect' residents in eastern Ukraine.
Several civilians and soldiers of Ukraine were reportedly killed in the Russian attack.
19:33 India's Hungary envoy sends team to Ukraine border
In the wake of Russian invasion of Ukraine, a team from the embassy of India in Hungary dispatched to the border post of Zohanyi to coordinate and provide assistance to facilitate exit of Indians from Ukraine, said the Indian mission in Hungary.
"Mission is working with the government of Hungary to provide all possible assistance,' the Indian embassy in Hungary said.
Embassy of India in Kyiv, Ukraine and Ministry of external affairs is closely monitoring the situation and evacuation plans are being worked out, it said. -- ANI
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19:12 Boy falls into borewell in Rajasthan; rescue operation underway
A four-and-a-half-year-old boy fell into a borewell in Rajasthan's Sikar district on Thursday, police said.
Efforts are on to rescue him, they said.
The boy, Ravindra, was playing in an agriculture farm near his house when he accidentally fell into the borewell, station house officer of Khatushyamji police station Riya Chaudhary said.
The boy is stuck at a depth of 50 feet, he added.
Police and State Disaster Response Force personnel have reached the place and launched a rescue operation, he said. -- PTI
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18:50 India refunds Rs 7,900 cr to Cairn to settle retro tax dispute
The Indian government has refunded Rs 7,900 crore to Britain's Cairn Energy Plc to a dispute over levy of retrospective taxes.
Cairn, which is now known as Capricorn Energy Plc, in a statement said the tax refund has been paid and 'net proceeds of $1.06 billion have been received." -- PTI
18:33 Ukraine military plane with 14 onboard crashes
A Ukraine military plane with 14 onboard has crashed near Kyiv, ANI has reported.
Details soon.
18:28 Pak PM Imran Khan meets Russian President Putin amidst Ukraine conflict
Russian President Vladimir Putin met Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan in the Kremlin on Thursday in his first face-to-face talks since the start of a special military operation in eastern Ukraine.
The two leaders are expected review the entire array of bilateral ties including energy cooperation besides exchanging views on major regional and international issues.
Khan, who arrived in Russia on Wednesday on a two-day visit - the first by a Pakistani premier in over two decades began his engagements in Moscow by laying a wreath at tomb of the Unknown Soldier', hours after the Russian president ordered a special military operation in eastern Ukraine, ignoring last-minute appeals and warnings from the West.
Putin is holding a meeting with Khan in the Kremlin, state-run TASS news agency reported.
These are the first face-to-face talks of the Russian leader since the start of a special military operation to protect Donbass, the agency said. -- PTI
18:04 Head for bomb shelters during air raids: MEA
The Indian Embassy on Thursday issued a third travel advisory to Indian nationals/students.
The Mission asked Indians to be aware of the surroundings, be safe, do not leave homes unless necessary and stress on carrying their documents at all times.
"As you are aware, Ukraine is under martial law, which has made movement difficult. For those students who are stranded without a place of stay in Kiev, Mission is in touch with establishments to put them up," read the Indian Embassy statement.
"We are aware that certain places are hearing air sirens/bomb warnings. In case you are faced with such a situation, google maps have a list of nearby bomb shelters, many of which are located in underground metro," advised the statement. -- ANI
17:49 What sanctions were under US consideration if Russia invaded?
The Biden administration had made clear it was holding tough financial penalties in reserve in case of a Russian invasion. The US hasn't specified just what measures it will take now, although administration officials have made clear that all-out sanctions against Russia's major banks are among the likely options. So are export limits that would deny Russia US high tech for its industries and military. Another tough measure under consideration would effectively shut Russia out of much of the global financial system.
17:47 Sitharaman to meet PM amid market mayhem
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday said she will be meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the situation arising out of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Markets have been rattled by Russia's attack on the Eastern European country. When asked whether there will be a meeting with the Prime Minster on the Russia-Ukraine issue, Sitharaman said, "definitely".
She was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an event here. On Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a military operation in Ukraine and the move has raised concerns over the possibility of a full-scale military confrontation between the two countries. -- PTI
17:46 Mapped: 10 biggest single-day falls
The 30-share benchmark Sensex crashed over 2,700 points in line with global meltdown amid invasion of Ukraine by Russia.
17:36 Russia makes 30 strikes on Ukraine, 18 dead
Eighteen people have been killed in an attack near Ukraine's Odessa. Ukraine's military says Russia attacked Ukraine with more than 30 strikes on civilian and military infrastructure, including with Kalibr cruise missiles.
Amid ongoing military operations of Russia in Ukraine, the Indian Embassy on Thursday issued a third travel advisory to Indian nationals/students.
The Mission asked Indians to be aware of the surroundings, be safe, do not leave homes unless necessary and stress on carrying their documents at all times. "As you are aware, Ukraine is under martial law, which has made movement difficult. For those students who are stranded without a place of stay in Kiev, Mission is in touch with establishments to put them up," read the Indian Embassy statement.
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg
17:12 Attack on one is attack on all: NATO on Ukraine
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg briefing on the Russia's invasion of Ukraine:
-- Today North Atlantic council decided to activate its military band. Democracy will always prevail over autocracy. Freedom will always prevail over oppression.
-- NATO stands in solidarity with Ukraine. NATO allies are imposing severe costs on Russia for their reckless invasion of Ukraine. NATO allies in close coordination with EU and other partners all over the world are now imposing severe economic sanctions on Russia.
-- NATO condemns Russia's invasion of Ukraine in the strongest terms. We call on Russia to immediately seize its military action and withdraw from Ukraine.
-- We've over 100 jets at high alert protecting our airspace and more than 120 allied ships at sea from north to the Mediterrarean. We will do whatever is necessary to shield the alliance from aggression.
-- NATO leaders will meet tomorrow to address the way forward. NATO allies have also, over a long period of time, provided practical support, military support to Ukraine and helped them to build a much stronger, better equipped & better-trained force today than Ukraine had in 2014.
-- An attack on one will be taken as an attack on all, this is NATO's collective security; will shield all allies from Russia no matter what.
-- So, we continue to stand together condemning the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Our allies also stand together in sending a message that we will never accept the brutal violation of international order.
16:52 No such restrictions: Sisodia on student's allegation on removing hijab
A day after a Delhi government school student alleged that she was asked to remove hijab by her teacher, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said no such restrictions have been imposed and the issue is being politicised by some people.
Addressing a press conference, Sisodia, who also holds the Education portfolio, said the AAP dispensation respects all traditions and students from all religions and castes are treated with dignity at its schools.
The comments by Sisodia came after a minor girl from a Delhi government school in Mustafabad alleged that she was asked to remove her headscarf at school. The girl made the allegation in a video which went viral on social media.
"Delhi schools have an excellent arrangement to teach students. Regarding this incident, attempts are being made to politicise the issue. In our schools, students of all religions and caste are treated with dignity. There are no restrictions from our side and their traditions are respected," Sisodia said in response to a question.
"I also enquired that how this incident happened but so far I don't think there is a problem...our school system and education department has not imposed any restrictions in this regard," he added.
The girl, who is wearing a hijab, says in the video in Hindi, "Teachers told me not to come to the class wearing this scarf. Don't be like your mother, and don't come to school wearing the scarf. There were two-three other girls who were asked to remove their headscarves."
According to sources, the school authorities have discussed the matter with her parents and the issue has been amicably resolved. -- PTI
16:46 Russia gives Sensex a bear hug
On the Sensex chart, all 30 shares suffered heavy losses, with IndusInd Bank, M&M and Bajaj Finance shedding as much as 8 per cent.
The site of the missile strike in Kyiv
16:43 Putin anticipates a new regime in Kyiv
Putin is looking beyond the current regime in Kyiv. Of course, if Western military assistance to Kyiv continues in any form, Washington knows that Russia will regard it as a hostile act and there will be severe consequences, predicts Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.
Read the column here.
16:38 Will bring back 18,000 citizens from Ukraine: MEA
Smoke rises from the territory of the Ukrainian Defence Ministry's unit, after Russian President Vladimir Putin authorized a military operation in eastern Ukraine, in Kyiv.
V Muraleedharan, MoS MEA says India is taking steps to bring back about 18,000 Indians including students from Ukraine.
"As the air space in Ukraine is closed, alternative arrangements are being made for the evacuation of Indian nationals. Central govt will ensure the safety of all Indians. I spoke to Malayali students in Ukraine on the phone. Indian students in the southern areas of Ukraine have told us that they're getting food, water and power. Students and parents should not panic. Our govt has brought back Indians even from places like Iraq."
People ride the subway in Kyiv
16:13 Kyiv wakes up to explosions, air raid sirens
Frightened Ukrainians take to metro stations in the capital Kyiv today as air raid sirens rang out across the country's main cities following Russia's launch of its feared military attack, reports ANI quoting AFP.
Citizens had been awakened by the sound of explosions on the city's fringes, but many others heard nothing.
The mayor of Boryspil, the suburb where the Kyiv's main airport lies, said some of the explosions were due to the shooting down of drones of unidentified origin.
In Mariupol, the sea port city that many fear will be the first major target because of its strategic importance and valuable heavy industry, people waited to take the bus to work, while many more hastily packed their luggage on to a car and left.
Residents flee Kyiv after the Russian invasion
15:50 Sensex crashes 2702 points amid Ukraine strike
Sensex crashes 2702 points to close at 54,529; Nifty ends at 16,247.
Stocks plunged and oil prices surged by more than $5 per barrel Thursday after President Vladimir Putin launched military action in Ukraine, prompting Washington and Europe to vow sanctions on Moscow that may roil the global economy.
Market benchmarks in Europe and Asia fell by as much as 4% as traders tried to figure out how large Putin's incursion would be and the scale of Western retaliation. Wall Street futures retreated by an unusually wide daily margin of 2.5%.
US Army soldiers in Poland
15:45 Ukraine says 40 people killed in Russian invasion
Ukraine breaks diplomatic ties with Russia, says Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy
-- Adviser to Ukraine President Office says more than 40 Ukrainian soldiers dead and several dozen wounded.
-- China, a close ally of Russia called on all parties to exercise restraint and prevent the situation from getting out of control.
15:44 WB guv's 2 am typo?
West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar summons the state's Legislative Assembly to meet at 2am on Monday, March 7.
WB Speaker Biman Banerjee reacts: "There must have been a typographical error that could have been avoided. State Govt had sent (intimation) and had mentioned 2 pm. Now it's up to the cabinet to decide."
With the West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar refusing to sign files sent for his perusal by the state government, the prolonged tiff between him and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has been escalated on Tuesday.
Governor Jagdeep Dhankar issued a clarification on 'remitting back' files on Tuesday after CM Banerjee accused him of 'unnecessarily delaying government's work by not signing bills.' Jagdeep Dhankar stated that he will only take up the issues related to the state's financial matters after they are duly summoned in the West Bengal Assembly.
15:31 Putin on Ukraine attack: We are defending Russia
Russian president Vladimir Putin's first statement since the invasion of Ukraine this morning.
"People living in territories which are part of today's Ukraine were not asked how they want to build their lives when the USSR was created or after WW2. People living in today's Ukraine, anyone who want to do this, must be able to enjoy this right to make a free choice.
"The current events have nothing to do with a desire to infringe on the interests of Ukraine and the Ukrainian people. They are connected with defending Russia from those who have taken Ukraine hostage and are trying to use it against our country."
Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a military operation in Ukraine to defend separatists in the east of the country, called the Donbas region. "I have made the decision of a military operation," he said in a surprise statement on television shortly before 6 am.
Residents of Ukraine tank up amid uncertainty and fear
14:55 Hopeful Putin may listen to Modi: Ukraine envoy
Ukraine says 'around 50 Russian occupiers' have been killed.
Ambassador of Ukraine to India Dr Igor Polikha pleads for India's intervention in the crisis.
"At the present moment, we're asking, pleading for support of India. In case of aggression of totalitarian regime against democratic state, India should fully assume its global role. Modiji is one of the most powerful and respected leaders in the world.
"I don't know how many world leaders Putin may listen to but status of Modiji makes me hopeful that in case of his strong voice, Putin at least should think over. We are expecting for much more favourable attitude of the Indian govt."
The Ministry of External Affairs is currently holding high-level meetings, sources said on Thursday as the situation continues to escalate near the Ukrainian border after Russia launched its military operations in the Donbas region.
The MEA control room
14:41 Get our children back, Kerala asks Centre
Kerala CM writes to EAM S Jaishankar to intervene and ensure the safety of 2320 students from the state in Ukraine; requests EAM to make necessary arrangements for their return by arranging special flights.
The MEA control room in Delhi has been expanded and made operational on a 24x7 basis to assist the students and other Indian nationals in Ukraine.
Dr Igor Polikha
14:34 Ukraine sounds call to arms
Ukraine Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov says anyone who is ready and able to hold a weapon can join the ranks of the Territorial Defence Forces.
Dr Igor Polikha, Ambassador of Ukraine to India: "We have the first civilian casualties even on the outskirts of the capital. There's fighting in some areas. According to information of our Ministry of Defence, the Ukrainian side shot down five Russian fighter planes, two helicopters, destroyed two tanks and several trucks. (Moscow has denied this.)
"It's a case of blatant aggression which started at 5 o'clock in the morning. We have confirmed information that a lot of Ukrainian aerodromes, military airports, military installations were attacked by bombs and missiles.
"Some attacks happened on outskirts of capital. Some attacks happened deep inside the territory of Ukraine. We're getting the first information about casualties among our soldiers and among the civilian population."
14:26 Mega fiscal blockade, more sanctions on Russia
European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen: "Later today, we will present a package of massive and targeted sanctions to European leaders for their approval.
"With this, we will target strategic sectors of the Russian economy by blocking their access to key technologies and markets. We will weaken Russia's economic base and its capacity to modernise.
"In addition, we will freeze Russian assets in EU and stop access of Russian banks to European financial market. Like with the first package of sanctions, we're closely aligned with partners and allies. These sanctions are designed to take a heavy toll on the Kremlin's interests and on their ability to finance the war."
14:19 Karnataka Congress leaders to meet Rahul Gandhi at 3:30 pm
Congress Legislature Party leader DK Shivakumar and working presidents of Karnataka Congress will meet MP Rahul Gandhi at his Delhi residence at 3:30 pm on Thursday. More details are awaited.
14:16 Crude oil soars to $100/barrel, a 7-year high!
Crude oil prices soared past the $100 a barrel mark for the first in more than seven years on Thursday after Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a military operation in Ukraine.
Brent crude oil surged to a high of $102.48 per barrel on Thursday, the highest level since September 2014. Brent crude oil price surged 5.4 per cent in a day. West Texas Intermediate crude oil price jumped 5.9 per cent to $97.58 a barrel, the highest level since August 2014.
Pic: Gleb Garanich/Reuters
14:00 Shot down 5 Russian aircraft and chopper, claims Ukraine; Moscow denies it
The General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces have claimed to have shot down five Russian aircraft and a helicopter, media reports said on Thursday.
However, the Russian military has denied the claims, TASS news agency reported.
"Message from the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine ... 5 planes and a helicopter of the aggressors were shot down in the area of the Armed Forces today," the Defence of Ukraine said in a tweet in Ukrainian.
Leaders from a number of counties, including the UK, US, Canada and European Union, have condemned Russia's military operations in the Donbas region.
Russian President Vladimir Putin warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to "consequences".
Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said Ukrainian cities are under strikes from Russia.
"Putin has just launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Peaceful Ukrainian cities are under strikes. This is a war of aggression. Ukraine will defend itself and will win. The world can and must stop Putin. The time to act is now," Kuleba tweeted.
In another tweet, Kuleba said the world must act immediately. "Future of Europe and the world is at stake. To-do list: Devastating sanctions on Russia NOW, including SWIFT. Fully isolate Russia by all means, in all formats. Weapons, equipment for Ukraine. Financial assistance. Humanitarian assistance," he said.
Russia has defended its actions in Ukraine, saying "the root of today's crisis around Ukraine is the actions of Ukraine itself."
Russian envoy to the UN Vasily Alekseevich Nebenzya said that the Russian operation is aimed to protect residents in eastern Ukraine.
-- ANI
Parked planes at Kyiv airport after the airspace was closed
13:49 MEA works on other evacuation routes from Ukraine
High-level meetings are ongoing at MEA: Contingency plans are being put into operation. Given airspace closure, alternate evacuation routes are being activated. Additional Russian speaking officials have been sent to the Indian Embassy in Ukraine and are being deployed in countries neighbouring Ukraine. The Embassy in Ukraine is functional and its advisories should be followed carefully, the MEA said.
The Russian military says it has knocked out Ukraine's air defence assets and airbases. The Russian Defence Ministry said the Russian strikes have suppressed air defence means of the Ukrainian military, adding that the infrastructure of Ukraine's military bases has been incapacitated. It denied the claims that a Russian warplane was shot down over Ukraine.
13:36 Biden says Ukraine's president called him to say...
US President Joe Biden says he has just spoken to Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. "The Ukrainian president reached out to me tonight and we just finished speaking. I condemned this unprovoked and unjustified attack by Russian military forces. I briefed him on steps we're taking to rally international condemnation, including tonight at the UNSC.
"He asked me to call on the leaders of the world to speak out clearly against Russian President Vladimir Putins flagrant aggression, and to stand with the people of Ukraine.
"Tomorrow, I will be meeting with the Leaders of the G7, and the United States and our Allies and partners will be imposing severe sanctions on Russia. We will continue to provide support and assistance to Ukraine and the Ukrainian people."
People wait to return to the city at Kyiv airport. REUTERS/Umit Bektas
13:29 15,000 Indians currently in Ukraine
Update: The Indian embassy issued a fresh advisory as Russia carries out a military operation in Ukraine, triggering a major confrontation between the two sides.
"The present situation in Ukraine is highly uncertain. Please maintain calm and remain safe wherever you are, be it in your homes, hostels, accommodations or in transit," the Indian embassy said.
"All those who are travelling to Kyiv, including those travelling from western parts of Kyiv, are advised to return to their respective cities. temporarily, especially towards safer places along the western bordering countries," it said.
It said further advisories will be issued for any updates. Official sources in New Delhi said India is looking at ways to assist its nationals, especially the students, in Ukraine. They said India is closely monitoring the "rapidly changing" situation in Ukraine and how to assist the Indians in that country.
"We are closely monitoring the rapidly changing situation. Focus is on safety and security of Indians, particularly students," said a source.
It said the control room set by the Ministry of External Affairs a few days back is being expanded and made operational on a 24x7 basis.
There is no possibility of sending special aircraft to Ukraine to evacuate the Indians including the Indian embassy staff as the airspace of Ukraine has been closed.
Ukraine closed its airspace to civilian flights in view of high risk to safety.
"The government is looking at ways to extend assistance to Indians there," said a source.
According to estimates, over 15,000 Indians are currently staying in Ukraine. It is learnt that a series of meetings are underway to assess the situation and ways to extend assistance to Indians in that country.
The situation in Ukraine deteriorated after President Vladimir Putin announced a military operation into Ukraine, triggering serious concerns over the possibility of a full-scale military confrontation between the two countries. -- PTI
Imran Khan boards a plane to Moscow yesterday
13:14 Imran Khan to end 2-day visit to Moscow
Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is ending his two-day visit to Moscow, hours after Russia began a military operation in Ukraine.
Khan was greeted by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov upon his arrival. He is expected to meet President Vladimir Putin today.
Many at home and abroad have questioned the timing of the visit.
The visit was planned more than a month ago and was expected to focus on Pakistan's energy needs. It is the first visit to Moscow by a Pakistani leader in more than 20 years.
Russia announced a military invasion of Ukraine at 6 am, Thursday.
Khan's decision to still go ahead with the visit has surprised some analysts.
13:06 Hijab-clad students asked to leave college premises in Udupi
In Karnataka, India, the hijab row continues.
Trouble erupted at the MGM college in Udupi on Thursday when some girl students wearing hijabs were sent out of the institution premises by the college principal.
Postgraduate students who sought entry into the college wearing hijabs complained that they are not even allowed to attend the classes or enter the college premises which is in violation of the High Court order.
The students said they could not appear for their examinations earlier due to the row over the hijab issue. Girl students wearing hijab who came to attend degree classes also left the campus after the order from the principal. -- PTI
12:59 Sensex drops 2033.32 points
Sensex drops 2033.32 points, currenly trading at 55,198.74. Nifty down by 601.45 points, currently at 16,461.80.
12:58 Missiles hit military installation in Ukraine
Smoke fumes out of a military installation near the airport in eastern Ukraine.
Soviet tanks move into Mariupol in eastern Ukraine
12:54 7 killed in Russian shelling in Ukraine
Ukraine says at least seven people have been killed and nine wounded by Russian shelling. Russian-backed separatists say they now control two towns in the Luhansk region of Ukraine.
The US embassy announces a security alert for US nationals in Ukraine following Russian President Putin declaring 'military operation' there. "US citizens in Ukraine are advised to shelter in place and take necessary action."
A special UIA flight with 182 Indians landed in Delhi from Ukraine this morning
12:47 Don't go to Kyiv: India tells citizens in Ukraine
India issues advisory for its citizens in Ukraine: "All those who are travelling to Kyiv, including those travelling from western parts of Kyiv, are advised to return to their respective cities temporarily, especially towards safer places along the western bordering countries."
Russian President Vladimir Putin announced today a military operation in Ukraine to defend separatists in the east of the country, called the Donbas region. "I have made the decision of a military operation," he said in a surprise statement on television shortly before 6 am.
12:42 That's what remains of a missile look like
Police officers inspect the remains of a missile that fell in the street, after Russian President Vladimir Putin authorized a military operation in eastern Ukraine, in Kyiv.
12:34 77 stocks on BSE 500 hit 52-week low levels
As many as 77 stocks hit their 52-week low levels in morning trade on Thursday as domestic equity benchmark indices witnessed heavy selling pressure after Russia announced a military operation in Ukraine.
Broader markets were badly hit as sustained selling pressure pulled the Sensex midcap and smallcap down by around 3.31 per cent and 3.37 per cent, respectively. On the sectoral front, all the sectoral indices were trading in the red with the BSE Telecom, BSE Realty and BSE Teck suffering the maximum loss of around 4.47 per cent, 3.91 per cent and 3.19 per cent, respectively.
The advance-decline ratio was massively tilted in favour of the bears with 266 advances and 2,893 declines.
As many as 77 stocks from BSE 500 index which hit their 52-week low in the morning session on Thursday, include Dr Reddy's, Exide Industries, HDFC Life, Apollo Tyres, BPCL, DCB Bank, HDFC Asset Management Company Ltd, Gillette India Ltd, and Wockhardt Ltd.
At 11:44 hours, the 30-share Sensex was trading 1465.96 points or 2.56 per cent lower at 55,766.10, while the broader NSE Nifty fell 433.95 points, or 2.54 per cent, to 16,629.30.
The Sensex has fallen 1,800 points, as Russia begins military operations in Ukraine. The geopolitical event has been causing a rout across equity markets, as the world can ill-afford further disruption in trade and commodities when COVID has already weakened sovereign balance sheets.
Ukrainians residing in Japan hold placards and flags during a protest rally
12:15 Russian army attacked from Belarus, says Ukraine
The Russian military has attacked Ukraine from neighbouring Belarus, Ukraine's border guard agency said today.
Russian troops launched their anticipated attack on Ukraine on Thursday, as President Vladimir Putin cast aside international condemnation and sanctions, warning other countries that any attempt to interfere would lead to consequences 'you have never seen'.
Russian troops unleashed an artillery barrage as part of an attack backed by Belarus. Ukrainian border guards fired back, and for now, there was no immediate report of casualties.
Belarus is an ally of Russia and it has been conducting its military drills from the nation.
The Ukrainian capital of Kyiv is about 75 km south of the border with Belarus.
12:06 WhatsApp group admins not liable for objectionable posts by members: Kerala HC
The administrators or creators of a WhatsApp group cannot be held vicariously liable for any objectionable content posted on it by any of its members, the Kerala High Court has held.
The ruling by the high court came while quashing a POCSO case against the admin of a WhatsApp group one of whose members had posted child pornography on it.
The court said that as held by the Bombay and Delhi High Courts, "the only privilege enjoyed by the admin of a WhatsApp group over other members is that he can either add or delete any of the members from the group".
"He does not have physical or any control otherwise over what a member of a group is posting thereon. He cannot moderate or censor messages in a group.
"Thus, Creator or Administrator of a WhatsApp group, merely acting in that capacity, cannot be vicariously held liable for any objectionable content posted by a member of the group," the Kerala HC said.
In the instant matter, the petitioner had created a WhatsApp group called 'FRIENDS' and he had made two other persons also as admins along with him and one of them posted in the group a porn video depicting children engaged in sexually explicit act.
As a result, police lodged a crime against that person -- also the accused no. 1 -- under the Information Technology Act and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offence (POCSO) Act. Subsequently, the petitioner was arrayed as accused no. 2 and after the investigation was completed, a final report was filed before the trial court.
The petitioner, in his plea seeking quashing of the proceedings against him, had contended that even if the entire allegations and the material collected are taken together at their face value, they do not indicate that he committed any offence.
Members of the Ukrainian State Border Guard Service attend a training session in November. Reuters/Gleb Garanich
11:43 Invasion no threat to Ukranian civilians: Russia
Russia has ruled out any threat to Ukrainian civilians as it carries out military operations in the country, local media reported.
The Russian Defence Ministry has clarified that the Russian army is not carrying out any missile, aviation or artillery strikes on the cities of Ukraine and is not targeting civilians, Sputnik News reported.
"Military infrastructure, air defense facilities, military airfields, aviation of the Armed Forces of Ukraine are being put out of action by [Russia's] high-precision means of destruction," the news agency quoted the ministry as saying.
The ministry added that the military action does not threaten the Ukrainian civilian population.
The ministry's remarks come after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a special "military operation to protect Donbas" in eastern Ukraine.
However, Ukraine Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Thursday said Putin has launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine and added that Ukrainian cities are under strikes. -- ANI
11:35 Nawab Malik's sister visits ED office
And some news from Mumbai...
Maharashtra minister and NCP leader Nawab Malik's sister Dr Saeeda Khan reaches the ED office. However, she was not allowed to enter. Malik was sent to ED custody for 7 days by a court in Mumbai, in a money laundering case.
Journalist Farnaz Fassihi
11:32 'The room was stunned'
Farnaz Fassihi, a war correspondent with New York Times, tweets, "Tonight's Security Council meeting on Ukraine was the most dramatic one I have covered. In real time, history in the making. As diplomats pleaded for peace and diplomacy news came of Putin's declaring start of special military operation. The room was stunned. The Security Council will meet tomorrow Thursday to vote on a resolution condemning Russia. There is wide support, says a European diplomat. BUT...Russia has veto power."
A military vehicle on a street on the outskirts city of Donetsk. Reuters/Alexander Ermochenko
11:28 Putin attacked Ukraine minutes after UN peace plea
Just as UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres was making an appeal in the Security Council to Russian President Vladimir Putin to stop your troops from attacking Ukraine and other Council members calling for de-escalation, restraint and diplomacy, the Russian leader announced the launch of a military operation in eastern Ukraine.
Guterres, who opened an emergency meeting of the 15-nation Security Council on Ukraine late Wednesday, in his brief off-the-cuff remarks said, "if indeed an operation is being prepared, I have only one thing to say from the bottom of my heart: President Putin, stop your troops from attacking Ukraine. Give peace a chance. Too many people have already died."
Just minutes after Guterres' remarks in the Security Council, Putin announced the launch of a military operation in eastern Ukraine.
As the other Council Members, including India, spoke at the emergency meeting calling for restraint and de-escalation, there were reports of large explosions and artillery fire being heard in eastern Ukraine.
India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador T S Tirumurti was the eighth speaker at the Council meeting after Guterres, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo, Albania, US, UK, France and Ireland and his remarks came just minutes after Putin's announcement of the military operation.
Tirumurti told the Council that New Delhi had only two days ago at the Council meeting on Ukraine called for urgent de-escalation of tensions and emphasised on sustained and focused diplomacy to address all issues concerning the situation.
"However, we note with regret, that the calls of the international community to give time to the recent initiatives undertaken by parties to diffuse tensions were not heeded to. The situation is in danger of spiraling into a major crisis, he said. -- PTI
US soldiers at the Ukraine border
11:21 Russian ruble turns to rubble amid invasion
The Russian ruble collapsed on Thursday morning after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a military operation in Ukraine, local media reported.
The Sputnik news agency reported that the dollar rose above 84 rubles for the first time since January 2016, and the euro above 95 rubles for the first time since December 2014, according to the data of the Moscow Stock Exchange.
According to the Russian news agency, the exchange rate as of 04:57 GMT is at 86.21 rubles per dollar, 96.90 rubles per euro. Russian Stock Exchange has suspended trade on all markets after collapsing about 10 per cent immediately after it opened.
Russian stock markets fell below 2,750 points on Moscow Exchange Index in the first several minutes of opening. -- ANI
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson
11:12 UK, allies will respond decisively, says Johnson
The UK and its allies will respond decisively to Russia's "unprovoked" attack on Ukraine, said Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday.
Johnson tweeted to say that he is appalled by the horrific events in Ukraine and has spoken to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss the next steps.
"President Putin has chosen a path of bloodshed and destruction by launching this unprovoked attack on Ukraine. The UK and our allies will respond decisively," he stated.
This tweet comes soon after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a special "military operation to protect Donbas" in eastern Ukraine.
11:10 Indian students return home in the nick of time
A special flight from Ukraine comprising Indian nationals including students lands in Delhi. "The situation where I was living is fine as the place is far from the border. But our embassy told us to leave; came back after the advisory was issued," says an MBBS student who returned from Ukraine in the wake of the Russian attack. Another student added, "Last night we received a message about the emergency situation in Ukraine for 30 days, so we landed back home."
The beautiful city of Kiev in Ukraine
10:54 Sensex crashes 1600 points over Ukraine invasion
With Russian President Vladimir Putin announcing a special "military operation" in eastern Ukraine, equity indices opened in red on Thursday with the Sensex down by over 1660 points and Nifty down by 492 points.
Russian troops launched their anticipated attack on Ukraine on Thursday, as President Vladimir Putin cast aside international condemnation and sanctions, warning other countries that any attempt to interfere would lead to consequences you have never seen.
Big explosions were heard before dawn in Kyiv, Kharkiv and Odesa as world leaders decried the start of an Russian invasion that could cause massive casualties and topple Ukraine's democratically elected government.
10:46 Ukraine updates
-- Russian military says it has targeted Ukrainian air bases and other military assets, hasn't targeted populated areas.
-- Ukraine's president declares martial law, urges citizens to not panic as Russia launches military strikes.
-- Ukraine Foreign Minister urges the world to act immediately: "Devastating and swift sanctions on Russia NOW. Fully isolate Russia by all means, in all formats. Weapons, equipment for Ukraine. Financial and Humanitarian assistance. Future of Europe & the world is at stake."
Indian students return from Ukraine
10:41 AI flight returns after Ukraine shuts air space
Air India flight AI1947 returns to Delhi as Ukraine closes air space due to Russian attack.
The Indian embassy in Ukraine on Tuesday once again asked Indian students to leave that country temporarily, amid escalating tensions following Russia recognising the independence of two separatist regions in eastern Ukraine.
The Indian embassy in Ukraine on Tuesday once again asked Indian students to leave that country temporarily, amid escalating tensions following Russia recognising the independence of two separatist regions in eastern Ukraine.
On Sunday, the embassy asked the family members of its staff in Ukraine to return home and advised Indians, whose stay is not essential, to leave that country temporarily in view of "high levels" of tensions and uncertainties.
US soldiers near the Ukraine border
10:34 Ukraine invasion: Explosions heard at Kiev airport
Multiple explosions were heard near the main airport in the Ukrainian capital of Kiev soon after Russia announced a military operation in Ukraine, media reports said on Thursday.
Several reports indicate several explosions in the Boryspil area to the east of the capital, CNN reported.
According to the American broadcaster, at least two massive explosions were reported in the early hours of Thursday. Announcing a special "military operation" in the Donbas region, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to "consequences".
Delivering an emergency address, Putin said the operation has been launched to demilitarize Ukraine and defend people's "suffering, persecution and genocide" by the Kiev regime.
"I have taken the decision to carry out a special military operation. Its goal will be to defend people who for eight years are suffering persecution and genocide by the Kiev regime. For this we will aim for demilitarization and de-Nazification of Ukraine," said Putin, asking Ukrainian soldiers to lay down arms.
This comes hours after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine has not posed and will not pose a threat to Russia. -- ANI
10:32 Putin warns against interfering with Russian action in Ukraine
Announcing a special "military operation" in the Donbas region, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to "consequences".
Delivering an emergency address, Putin said the operation has been launched to demilitarize Ukraine and defend people "suffering persecution and genocide" by the Kiev regime.
"I have taken the decision to carry out a special military operation. Its goal will be to defend people who for eight years are suffering persecution and genocide by the Kiev regime. For this we will aim for demilitarization and de-Nazification of Ukraine," said Putin, asking Ukrainian soldiers to lay down arms.
"Anyone who tries to interfere with us, or even more so, to create threats for our country and our people, must know that Russia's response will be immediate and will lead you to such consequences as you have never before experienced in your history," he added. This comes hours after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine has not posed and will not pose a threat to Russia.
In an emotional appeal delivered largely in Russian, Zelenskyy said, "You are being told that Ukraine can pose a threat to Russia. "It was not like this in the past, it is not like this now and it will not be so in the future. You demand security guarantees from NATO. We also demand guarantees of our security - from you, from Russia, and other guarantors of the Budapest memorandum," Zelenskyy said in a video address.
The Ukrainian President also refuted Moscow's claims that his country poses a threat to Russia and warned that a Russian invasion would cost tens of thousands of lives. -- ANI
10:28 Justin Trudeau revokes Emergencies Act
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has revoked the use of the Emergencies Act on Wednesday which he imposed during massive protests in Ottawa over covid restrictions.
Addressing the news conference, Trudeau said "The situation is no longer an emergency," adding, "We are confident that existing laws and bylaws are now sufficient to keep people safe."
He said the Governor-General will officially sign off on the revocation in the coming hours, ending the state of emergency, reported CBC News.
Earlier, Trudeau, on February 14, invoked the Emergencies Act for the first time in 50 years to give the federal government extra powers to handle ongoing truckers blockades and protests against the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. Then on February 21, MPs in the House of Commons voted to pass the federal government's use of the Emergencies Act in response to the convoy blockades in Ottawa and at border crossings however the latest announcement revokes the Act.
The Emergencies Act, which replaced the War Measures Act in the 1980s, defines a national emergency as a temporary "urgent and critical situation" that "seriously endangers the lives, health or safety of Canadians and is of such proportions or nature as to exceed the capacity or authority of a province to deal with it." -- ANI
US soldiers stationed 6 km from the Ukrainian border
10:20 It's a full-scale invasion, says Ukraine
Russian President Vladimir Putin has launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, announced the country's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Thursday and added that Ukrainian cities are under strikes.
"Putin has just launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Peaceful Ukrainian cities are under strikes. This is a war of aggression. Ukraine will defend itself and will win. The world can and must stop Putin. The time to act is now," Kuleba tweeted.
This tweet comes less than an hour after Putin announced a special "military operation" to protect Donbas in eastern Ukraine.
Defending Russia's decision to take military action in the Donbas region, the Russian envoy to the UN Vasily Alekseevich Nebenzya, told UN Security Council "the root of today's crisis around Ukraine is the actions of Ukraine itself."
"The root of today's crisis around Ukraine is the actions of Ukraine itself, who for many years were sabotaging its obligations under the (Minsk agreement)," said Nebenzya.
Nebenzya said that the Russian operation is aimed to protect residents in eastern Ukraine. Condemning Russia's "unprovoked and unjustified attack on Ukraine", US President Joe Biden said that the premeditated war will bring a catastrophic loss of life. -- ANI
10:12 Biden condemns Russia's 'unprovoked attack'
Condemning Russia's 'unprovoked and unjustified attack on Ukraine', United States President Joe Biden said that the premeditated war will bring a catastrophic loss of life and human.
"The prayers of the entire world are with the people of Ukraine tonight as they suffer an unprovoked and unjustified attack by Russian military forces. President Putin has chosen a premeditated war that will bring a catastrophic loss of life and human suffering," said Biden, as per a statement released by White House.
Asserting that the United States and its allies and partners will respond in a united and decisive way, Biden said that Russia alone is responsible for the death and destruction this attack will bring.
The world will hold Russia accountable, he added.
The US President further informed that he will be monitoring the situation from the White House as of now and will meet with his G7 counterparts in the morning.
"Tomorrow, I will meet with my G7 counterparts in the morning and then speak to the American people to announce the further consequences the United States and our allies and partners will impose on Russia for this needless act of aggression against Ukraine and global peace and security," he said.
Biden said that the US will also coordinate with its NATO allies to ensure a strong, united response that deters any aggression against the alliance.
"Tonight, Jill (First Lady Jill Biden) and I are praying for the brave and proud people of Ukraine," he added.
Biden's statement comes as Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced a special 'military operation' to protect Donbas, the separatist-held region in eastern Ukraine, media reports said on Thursday.
Delivering an emergency address, Putin said the operation has been launched to demilitarise Ukraine and also warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to 'consequences'.
Notably, Putin recognised the independence of the Ukraine breakaway regions Donetsk and Luhansk following which Biden imposed sanctions on Russia and affirmed the US' support to Ukraine.
Putin after his announcement also ordered the sending of the Russian Armed Forces to Ukraine's breakaway regions.
Following this, the Ukrainian Parliament, Verkhovna Rada, on Wednesday approved declaring a state of emergency in the whole country except for Donetsk and Luhansk regions amid the escalating situation at the country's borders. -- ANI
IMAGE: US soldiers, assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division, deployed to Poland to reassure NATO allies and deter Russian aggression, camp at an operating base 6 km from the Ukrainian border, near Przemysl, Poland. Photograph: Bryan Woolston/Reuters
09:50 India reports 14,148 fresh Covid cases, 302 deaths
India reports 14,148 fresh COVID-19 cases, 30,009 recoveries, and 302 deaths in the last 24 hours.
Active case: 1,48,359 (0.35%)
Daily positivity rate: 1.22%
Total recoveries: 4,22,19,896
Death toll: 5,12,924
Total vaccination: 1,76,52,31,385 (30,49,988)
09:29 India seeks 'immediate de-escalation' in Ukraine
Expressing concern over ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, India on Thursday said that the situation is in danger of spiralling into a major crisis which may undermine the peace and security of the region.
India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations TS Tirumurti made this statement in the backdrop of Russia ordering troops into Ukraine's breakaway regions Donetsk and Luhansk.
Ukraine requested an urgent United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Meet after Heads of these regions asked Russian President Vladimir Putin for help.
Reiterating India's call for immediate de-escalation of tensions, Tirumurti said, "The situation is in danger of spiralling into a major crisis. We express our deep concern over the developments, which if not handled carefully, may well undermine the peace and security of the region."
"We call for immediate de-escalation and refraining from any further action that could contribute to a worsening of the situation. We call on all parties to exert greater efforts to bridge divergent interests," he said, adding that the legitimate security interests of all parties should be taken into account.
Emphasising the need for all sides to maintain peace and security by exercising restraint, Tirumurti said that the solution lies in sustained diplomatic dialogue between the concerned parties.
He further informed that India is facilitating the return of all Indian nationals, including students residing in different parts of Ukraine. -- ANI
08:56 Putin announces military operation in Ukraine
Russian President Vladimir Putin announces a 'military operation' in Ukraine, calls on Ukraine military to 'lay down its arms'.
Putin vows retaliation against those who interfere with Russian Ukraine operation.
More details awaited. -- ANI
08:16 UNSC to meet as Ukraine rebels seek Putin's help
An emergency session of the United Nations Security Council on the prevailing situation in Ukraine will begin at 09.30 pm (New York time) on Wednesday, as per Russia's Permanent Mission to the UN.
'The UN Security Council meeting on Ukraine is scheduled today for 21:30 New York time and will be held in the format of an open briefing,' the mission said.
Ukraine requested an urgent United Nations Security Council (UNSC) meet after heads of the Ukraine breakaway regions, Donetsk and Luhansk, have asked the Russian President Vladimir Putin for help.
Taking to Twitter, Ukraine's Foreign Minister, Dmytro Kuleba said, "Ukraine has requested an urgent meeting of the UN Security Council due to the appeal by Russian occupation administrations in Donetsk and Luhansk to Russia with a request to provide them with military assistance which is a further escalation of the security situation."
Apart from Kuleba, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell Fontelles, said that request for assistance from DPR, LPR breakaway regions is a 'very dangerous additional step' that would put thousands of lives at risk.
Borrell in a tweet said, 'The request for assistance by Moscow from the so-called DPR/LPR breakaway regions announces a very dangerous additional step against #Ukraine's sovereignty that would put thousands of lives at risk. The EU strongly urges #Russia to refrain from any further escalatory actions.'
This comes at a time when Russian President Vladimir Putin recognised the independence of the Ukraine breakaway regions following which Biden imposed sanctions on Russia and affirmed US' support to Ukraine.
Putin after his announcement also ordered the sending of the Russian Armed Forces to Ukraine's breakaway regions.In another key development, the Ukrainian parliament, Verkhovna Rada, on Wednesday approved declaring a state of emergency in the whole country except for Donetsk and Luhansk regions amid the escalating situation at the country's borders. -- ANI
Fire fighters rescue students
00:50 17 girls rescued after fire in Surat commercial complex; no injuries
At least 17 teenage girls were rescued using a hydraulic platform after thick smoke caused by a fire engulfed a three-storey commercial complex in Surat city of Gujarat on Wednesday evening, an official said.
The fire started in the basement of the structure, where plastic articles were stored, but the smoke reached the top floor where tuition classes for girls were going on, said Surat Municipal Corporation's chief fire officer Basant Pareek.
"While the fire was limited to the basement area only, the smoke covered the entire building located in Singanpore area. After learning about the incident at around 6 pm, we sent 10 fire fighting vehicles and a hydraulic platform to the spot. The fire in the basement was contained within a couple of hours," he said.
Using the hydraulic platform, 17 girls trapped on the third floor were rescued, Pareek said.
"We first moved them to a safer place having good ventilation and then brought them down using the platform. No one was injured in the incident," he said.
The fire erupted in some plastic articles stored in the basement due to some unknown reason.
The firemen had to break a wall on the ground floor using hammers and cut a hole to gain access to the basement, the official said. -- PTI
00:44 Bathinda court summons Kangana in tweet case
A court in Bathinda on Wednesday asked Kangana Ranaut to appear before it on April 19 in a defamation case filed by Mohinder Kaur, who was misidentified on Twitter by the actor as the "Shaheen Bagh dadi".
Kaur's advocate Raghbir Singh Behniwal said the court issued a summons to Kangana for appearing before it on April 19.
He said the complaint against the actor was filed in January, 2021.
In her complaint, Kaur had said that the actor made 'false imputations and remarks' against her in a tweet by comparing her with a woman, saying she was the same 'dadi' who was part of the Shaheen Bagh protest.
"By using such remarks, the actor lowered my reputation and prestige," Kaur had alleged in the complaint.
Kaur is a resident of Bahadurgarh Jandian village here.
The Bollywood actor had misidentified Kaur as Bilkis Bano, the octogenarian who made headlines during the anti-CAA protests in 2019 in the Delhi neighbourhood of Shaheen Bagh.
Ranaut had shared a tweet alleging that the 'Shaheen Bagh dadi' also joined the farmers' agitation over the new agriculture laws at various border points of the national capital.
She had retweeted the post with pictures of the two elderly women, including Bilkis Bano, and wrote that the 'same Dadi' who featured in Time Magazine was "available in 100 rupees'. -- PTI
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