Russia says it advances in eastern Ukraine and regroups after incursion
The Hindu
Russia captures Niu-York in Ukraine, part of ongoing offensive; Ukraine pushes into Russia; tensions escalate.
Russia said on Tuesday (August 20, 2024) its forces had taken control of what it described as the strategically important logistics hub of Niu-York in eastern Ukraine, part of Moscow's grinding drive to capture the entire Donetsk region.
Even as Ukrainian troops seek to advance in Russia's Kursk region after a surprise cross-border attack that began on Aug. 6, the fate of Niu-York - which Reuters could not independently confirm - is a reminder that Russian forces are still pressing on with their own offensive in eastern Ukraine.
Russia separately announced the formation of new military groupings in Kursk and two other border regions as it tries to repel the incursion without diverting forces from front lines deep inside Ukraine.
Defence Minister Andrei Belousov said a new coordinating body had "already" begun working round the clock to liaise between regional authorities, troop commanders and the defence ministry.
But the timing of his announcement — a full two weeks after Ukrainian forces smashed through Russia's western border — served to emphasise the delayed nature of Moscow's response. He did not say why such smooth coordination had not been possible previously.
Ukraine's top commander Oleksandr Syrskyi said on Tuesday his forces had pushed 28-35 km (17-22 miles) into Russia, capturing 1,263 sq km (488 square miles) of territory including 93 settlements - figures that Reuters could not independently confirm. Russia has vowed to crush the incursion, but has shown no sign it is close to expelling Ukrainian forces.
The operation has boosted Ukrainian morale, and Kyiv believes the seizure of territory and Russian prisoners has strengthened its hand in any potential negotiation.
Indians among 171 delivery riders detained in U.K. crackdown on illegal migration as part of new government reforms.
IMF explores recovery support for Sri Lanka following cyclone Ditwah, addressing humanitarian and economic challenges faced by the nation.
Edinburgh Airport halts all flights due to IT issues; passengers should check with airlines for updates.
Odisha Minister confirms that the inquiry report into the Nepalese student's death at KIIT University is currently under examination.
Hong Kong's upcoming legislative election faces low turnout as residents mourn a devastating fire that claimed 159 lives.
Harvard professor Carlos Portugal Gouvea arrested for discharging a pellet gun near a synagogue; agrees to leave the U.S.
Macron cautioned Zelenskyy that the U.S. might pressure Ukraine into territorial concessions to Russia without security guarantees.
A Canadian national was arrested at the Indo-Nepal border for using a fake immigration stamp on his passport.
Appeals court permits Trump to maintain National Guard deployment in D.C., reversing a lower court's order to withdraw troops.
Iraq retracts its terror designation of Hezbollah and Houthis, citing an error amid regional political pressures and public backlash.
U.S. military strikes drug boats amid scrutiny over legality and rising casualties, prompting investigations and conflicting congressional testimonies.
Indian envoy Santosh Jha meets Sri Lanka’s Housing Minister to discuss reconstruction efforts following Cyclone Ditwah's devastating impact.
The U.S. and Kenya sign a $2.5 billion health deal, marking the start of "America First" global health agreements.