Ukrainian rights official has said over 1,300 people, including many children, were hiding in the building targeted by Russia

Kyiv says people may be used as 'hostages' to pressure it to give up; Russia gives similar numbers but asserts they went willingly

Veretska had been preparing to take part before war; fleeing her country with her 11-year-old daughter, she asked organizers to help her participate 'for the people of Ukraine'

With Moscow's offensive largely stalled, the Russian leader's original plans are in tatters; but this could lead to even greater escalation and destruction

'We need to reach peace. Russia should also want peace,' Ukrainian leader says after call with PM, but gives no details of what was discussed

Sergei Shoigu's 2-week absence from public view has prompted questions about his state; new short clip shows him on conference call with Putin

As the conflict drags on fears are raised that Russia could become frustrated and resort to smaller nuclear weapons in a bid to force Ukraine to surrender

Two cantors at NY's Temple Sinai were unsure their former compatriot Olga Tabunshikova would be able to edit their holiday video from Kharkiv, but she calls the work a 'lifeline'

Jews for Jesus, other groups, step into war relief, saying religious message is 'part of the package,' but opponents call outreach 'sinister' exploitation of vulnerable people

Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak reveals that his relatives were killed in Babyn Yar; says president sleeps 4-5 hours a night and keeps up activities despite fear of assassination