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.
Ukraine
War takes a heavy toll on animals too. See how people in Ukraine strive to save them
Thousands of people have been killed and millions displaced. Four-legged Ukrainians are also suffering, but there are groups working to help the animals.
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.
For older Ukrainians in front-line cities, visits from social workers bring comfort
In Sloviansk, many of those who remain are over 60. Social workers help with food, medicine and cleaning. An 86-year-old calls her social worker "Firefly," saying, "She brings light in a dark time."
Ukraine's president says a new mass grave is found near a recaptured city
Ukrainian authorities found a mass burial site near a recaptured northeastern city previously occupied by Russian forces, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced.
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.
Ukrainian ballet dancer Oleksandr Shapoval is killed on the battlefield
The 48-year old Shapoval volunteered to fight after Russia invaded Ukraine. His unit was recently sent to one of "the hottest zones" in the country, according to The National Opera of 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.