Putin marks 70th as Ukraine pressures rise
Celebrations have been low-key for Vladimir Putin's 70th birthday as the Russian leader faces setbacks in his invasion of Ukraine and unprecedented dissent.
Celebrations have been low-key for Vladimir Putin's 70th birthday as the Russian leader faces setbacks in his invasion of Ukraine and unprecedented dissent.
Ukraine declares it has full control of Lyman as president Volodymyr Zelenskiy says the key eastern city is cleared of Russian armed forces.
Following referendums that reportedly endorsed Moscow's rule, Russia is poised to formally annex areas of Ukraine where it has military control.
The risks of nuclear war are "considerable" over the Ukraine conflict, Russia's foreign minister says, as he accuses NATO of waging a proxy war through Kyiv.
Talks are underway beween Russian and Ukrainian officials as the toll from Russia's invasion climbs, and western sanctions bite into Russia's financial system.
Russia has placed nuclear-equipped forces on high alert, as the West rallies in support of beleaguered Ukraine.