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Russian gas to EU in end of era – BBC”>Ukrainian Scientist Couple Killed in Russian Drone Strike on New Year’s Day

In a tragic turn of events, a prominent Ukrainian scientist couple, Igor Zima and Olesea Sokur, lost their lives in a Russian drone attack on New Year’s Day. The couple, both esteemed academics, were killed when a Russian drone struck their home in Kyiv’s Pechersky district.

The news was confirmed by Ukraine’s Minister of Education and Science, Oksen Lysovyi, on his Facebook page. "Sadly, Igor Zima and Olesea Sokur, both distinguished scientists, were killed by Russia during the morning shelling of Kyiv on New Year’s Day," Lysovyi posted.

Igor Zima, a renowned neurobiologist, was a senior research scientist and associate professor at the Institute of Biology and Medicine of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv. He taught courses such as "Physiology and Anatomy of Humans and Animals," "Anatomy and Physiology of the CNS," and "Neurophysiology," among others. His wife, Olesea Sokur, was also a respected scientist, holding a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences.

The couple dedicated their lives to scientific research, working together at the Institute of Biology and Medicine for many years. Their tragic deaths have left the scientific community mourning the loss of two brilliant minds.

The drone attack occurred early on New Year’s Day, with debris from the drone falling onto a residential building, partially destroying two upper floors and starting a fire. Two people were killed in the attack, with seven others, including two pregnant women, injured.

This incident underscores the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where Russian attacks have claimed many innocent lives, including those of prominent figures like Igor Zima and Olesea Sokur, who were simply pursuing their academic passions.

Ukraine’scapital prepares for harsh winds as Flag Day approaches

The Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Center has warned about strong winds in Kyiv on January 2, with gusts expected to reach 15-20 m/s. The wind warning is at Level I, yellow, prompting officials to take necessary precautions.

In response, the City Operational Command "KyivZelenStroy" has temporarily removed the city’s massive flag from its 90-meter high mast on the Pechersky Hills. The flag, which measures 16 by 24 meters and weighs 32 tons, has been taken down to prevent any potential damage from the adverse weather conditions.

This action is part of the city’s preparations for the upcoming Ukraine’s Flag Day on August 23, celebrated annually to honor one of the country’s most prominent state symbols, the Ukrainian flag. The national holiday was established by a decree from former President Leonid Kuchma in 2004. Originally, the day was celebrated only in Kyiv on July 24, marking the occasion when the blue and yellow flag was first raised above the city’s municipal building in 1990.

Last year, a significant milestone was reached when Chernihiv set a new national record for the largest knitted flag in Ukraine. Citizens united to create a monumental tribute to their country’s colors.

As the nation gears up for Flag Day, residents can expect to see various celebrations and tributes to the iconic symbol of Ukrainian pride and unity.

New Year’s Night Marred by Russian Aggression: 111 Drone Strikes Target Ukraine

In a chilling display of hostility, Russia launched 111 drone strikes against Ukraine on New Year’s Eve, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. While the majority of these strikes were thwarted by Ukrainian air defense systems, mobile fire groups, and electronic warfare systems, one life was lost, and several structures were damaged, including a residential building in Kyiv.

"I want to express my deepest condolences to the family of the victim," Zelensky said in a statement. "I am grateful to everyone who is defending Ukraine, our cities, and our people. Our army, our emergency services, our medical workers, and everyone who is dedicated to saving lives – thank you."

The drone attack, one of the largest since the beginning of the war, saw 63 drones shot down, with 46 others losing contact. Two drones, seemingly malfunctioning, ended up in Russia and Belarus. The strikes, primarily targeting Kyiv, caused fires in several districts, including the destruction of part of a residential building in the Pecherskyi district, resulting in the tragic loss of life.

"In the Pecherskyi district, due to the fall of drone debris, a fire broke out on the roof of the National Bank building," reported Kyiv City State Administration.

This brazen act of aggression underscores Russia’s persistent attempts to undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty and inflict harm, even during a time meant for celebration and peace. As the war continues, so does Ukraine’s resilience and commitment to defending its territory and people.

Breaking News: Russian Drone Strike Hits Residential Building in Kyiv, Killing One and Injuring Seven

In a brazen morning attack on Kyiv, Russia struck a residential building in the city’s Pecher Puedeky district with an uncrewed aerial vehicle, partially destroying two upper floors and igniting a bl

Ukraine War Update: Kyiv Confronts Fresh Attacks; Residents brace for Impact

janeiro 1, 2023

Kyiv woke up to the chilling sound of air defense sirens once again. The city, still grappling with the echoes of recent Russian attacks, braced itself for the new year’s worst.

As the sun rose, Ukraine’s capital faced a fresh assault, with Russia-mounted drones and artillery strikes peppering several districts. According to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SES), the attack left a trail of destruction in two areas: Pechersk and Святошинский.

Pechersk: Residential Buildings Hit

In the Pechersk district, a residential building took a direct hit, resulting in partial destruction of its 4th to 6th floors. A fire broke out on the 4th and 5th floors, engulfing about 70 square meters. Firefighters swiftly contained the blaze, successfully rescuing one woman.

Not far from the residential building, a non-residential rooftop caught fire due to the impact.

Святошинский: Infrastructure Damaged

The Святошинский district bore the brunt of the attack on its infrastructure. Several garages were destroyed, and a fire ignited, consuming around 20 square meters.

Tramway Lines Damaged

Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko confirmed that the assault had caused damage to tramway lines in the Святошинский district, about 100 meters from the local tram depot. The mayor assured residents that repairs would commence immediately, with road workers stepping in once the clearing operations are complete.

Aviation bombardment

Ever since the full-scale invasion in late February, Russia has persistently employed a diverse arsenal against Ukraine, including rockets, drones, artillery, and guided aerial bombs. This New Year’s morning was no exception.

Lieutenant Ibragimov of the Ukrainian Air Force revealed that interceptors brought down two missiles over Kyiv. As of now, three casualties have been reported due to the raid on the capital.

Protecting Civilians, Resuming Life

Despite the ongoing threat of Russian attacks, Kyiv residents remain unyielding in their resolve. While ensuring personal safety, they continue with daily life, maintaining the city’s spirit and resilience.

To stay updated on the evolving situation in Kyiv and across Ukraine, keep following our coverage.

Breaking News: Russia‘s Drone Strikes Cause Fires in Kyiv‘s Pecherksy District; One Injured

In a fresh wave of Russia’s widespread drone attacks, parts of Ukraine‘s capital Kyiv have been struck, setting buildings ablaze and leaving at least one person injured. The Ukrainian capital braced for a night of aerial assaults, with the city’s air defense systems engaged in active response.

Early reports indicate that debris from strike drones, reportedly including Iranian-made "kamikaze" drones, fell in Kyiv’s Pecherksy district. The city’s administration confirmed that the debris affected non-residential structures, with no immediate reports of casualties. However, the situation remained fluid as investigations into the extent of the damage continued.

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko later provided updates, revealing that fire crews were battling blazes on the roof and in an apartment within a residential building. Additionally, debris was reported to have hit another non-residential building in the area. A resident sought medical attention following the attacks.

In a subsequent update, Klitschko disclosed that the impact had caused partial destruction of two upper floors in a residential building in Pecherksy. One person was injured and hospitalized as a result. Emergency services were on the scene dealing with the aftermath.

Earlier in the day, air raid alerts had been activated across several Ukrainian regions owing to Russia’s escalating drone attacks. The assault on Kyiv occurred around 7 am, with explosions heard across the city as air defenses engaged the incoming threats.

Russia’s intensifying use of drone warfare, including thedasarkan drones, has put pressure on Ukrainian air defenses and disrupted civilian life across the country. The recent drone attacks follow a lull in aerial assaults over the New Year’s holiday period.

As the situation unfolds, authorities remind residents to remain vigilant, follow safety guidelines, and stay informed through official channels for updates on the ongoing military conflict. This story will be updated as more information becomes available.

Breaking News: President Zelensky Appoints New Head of Kyiv Military Administration

President Vladimir Zelensky has issued a decree dismissing Sergei Popko from his position as the head of Kyiv’s military administration. In his place, the President has appointed Timur Tkachenko, who will now assume the role of the new leader of the Kyiv City Military Administration.

The Presidential decrees, numbered 897/2024 and 898/2024, have been published on the official presidential website, confirming the appointments. The decree states, "In accordance with Article 4 of the Law of Ukraine ‘On the Legal Regime of Martial Law,’ appoint Timur Tkachenko, Timur Firuddinovich, as the head of the Kyiv City Military Administration."

Tkachenko brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having previously served as the Deputy Minister for Strategic Industries. Prior to this, he held the position of Director of the Territorial Control Department within the Executive Committee of the Kyiv City State Administration.

With this appointment, President Zelensky continues to reshape his administration, seeking to strengthen Ukraine’s response to the ongoing challenges. The move is expected to bring fresh perspective and leadership to the critical position of overseeing the capital’s military affairs.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.

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UDP Leader in Odessa Region Arrested for Demanding Million-Dollar Bribe for Land Apartment

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Authorities have apprehended and charged Alexander Sukhanov, head of the "UDP Vitaly Klitschko" party in the Odessa region, with demanding a $1 million bribe for resolving a land allotment issue on a prime riverside location in Kyiv’s "Natalka" park.

Sources close to the investigation reveal that Sukhanov posed as an advocate for a businessperson seeking a lease on a 0.5-hectare plot near the Dnieper River. In exchange for the million-dollar bribe, Sukhanov promised to facilitate the lease approval through his connections in the Kyiv City Council.

The scheme unraveled when the entrepreneur, who previously attempted to secure the plot legally without success, was approached by Sukhanov, who offered his "legal services" in exchange for the bribe.

Sukhanov was apprehended in Kyiv while receiving a $900,000 "advance" payment. He faces charges under Article 190, Part 5 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code, which carries a potential 12-year prison sentence.

Investigations continue, and authorities are conducting raids in the offices of the Kyiv City State Administration (Kreci) as they work to gather more information and evidence.

Follow the latest updates on this story on our website, and sign up for our newsletters to receive breaking news alerts direct to your inbox.

Ukrainian Party Leader Detained for Demanding $1 Million Bribe in Land Deal

Kyiv, Ukraine – The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has foiled a major corruption scheme involving a high-ranking political figure who demanded a $1 million bribe to facilitate a 25-year land lease deal in the heart of Kyiv.

The scheme, which was exposed by the SBU, saw a prominent regional party official posing as an attorney and promising to grease the wheels of bureaucracy in the Kyiv City State Administration (KSCA) in exchange for a hefty bribe.

• Greensplot in the Sun *
  A businessman, seeking official permission to lease a sizeable plot located in a recreational zone near the Dnieper River, found himself ensnared in a web of bureaucratic hurdles engineered by the politician. The enterprising official promised a shortcut through alleged influence in the Kyiv City Council, but at a cost of $1 million.

On Tuesday, the scheming politician was caught red-handed while accepting a $900,000 down payment. He now faces a criminal charge of fraud on an especially large scale, punishable by up to 12 years in prison.

Investigators are currently considering an appropriate remand measure, including the potential for bail set at 38 million Ukrainian hryvnias (approximately US$950,000). Meanwhile, searches are ongoing at the KSCA to identify any accomplices.

The SBU operation was led by the agency’s Kyiv and regional branches in coordination with the Kyiv prosecutor’s office. It comes on the heels of other recent successes against corruption and pro-Russian influence in Ukraine.

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