Russia makes moves to annex separatist regions in Ukraine
Leaders of four separatist and partially Russian-occupied regions said they would hold referendums on whether to formally join Russia, starting as soon as Friday.
Russia
Russia-Ukraine war updates: Putin met Xi, mass graves found in Izium (Sept. 19)
Catch up on key developments and the latest in-depth coverage of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Biden will meet with the families of Russia detainees Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan
President Biden has said Griner and Whelan are wrongfully detained in Russia. Griner, a WNBA star, was convicted of marijuana possession, and Whelan, an ex-Marine, was convicted of espionage.
Zaporizhzhia nuclear reactors won't restart until Russians leave, its operator says
Europe's largest nuclear plant will remain shut down until Russian forces leave, the head of Ukraine's atomic energy agency tells NPR. Under Russian occupation, he says, "staff cannot operate freely."
Xi Jinping travels out of China to see Putin and other leaders. Here's why it matters
The leaders of China and Russia have joined other foreign leaders in Central Asia. Top concerns include Russia's war in Ukraine.
Their town now freed from Russian occupation, Ukrainians feel shock and joy
Ukrainian forces liberated the town of Balakliia in a swift counteroffensive against Russia in the east, where retreating Russian troops left behind tanks, captives and an untold number of casualties.
Russia insists it's working toward goals in Ukraine, even after troops retreat
The Kremlin made its first public response following Ukraine's success on the battlefield in recent days.
Russia-Ukraine war: A weekly recap and look ahead (Sept. 12)
Catch up on key developments and the latest in-depth coverage of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Secretary of State Blinken offers big aid package on unannounced visit to Ukraine
Antony Blinken is on a trip to Kyiv, where he visited a children's hospital and met with U.S. Embassy staff. The U.S. announced nearly $3 billion in aid and weapons for Ukraine and other countries.
Meet the Chechen battalion joining Ukraine to fight Russia — and fellow Chechens
While many Chechen fighters have deployed in Ukraine for Russia, this group is there to defend the country from the Russians.