Russian rocket strikes in Ukraine killed at least 11 people and&nbsp;injured 56&nbsp;on Tuesday, said the country's interior minister. Among the dead at the cafe which was hit in Kramatorsk, a town located in eastern Ukraine, include three children, two of whom were twin sisters.&nbsp;

"As of 07:00 (0400 GMT) on June 28, the bodies of eight dead people (including three children, two of them born in 2008 and 2011) were unblocked from under the rubble of the destroyed cafe building," the State Emergency Service of Ukraine said on Telegram.

The educational department of Kramatorsk city council said in a Telegram post,&nbsp;"Two sisters, both age 14, died in the missile&nbsp;attack."&nbsp; 
 
The Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs said that the attack in Kramatorsk wounded another 56 people.

The rocket strikes hit a restaurant in the town of Kramatorsk, one of the largest still under Ukrainian control in the east, and is a popular eatery that is frequented by both journalists and soldiers.

As per Ukrainian police, Russia fired two S-300 surface-to-air missiles at the city.&nbsp;The S-300 is a surface-to-air missile that cannot hit targets on the ground accurately, but have&nbsp; been repurposed it for loosely targeted strikes on cities.&nbsp;

"There were a lot of people in there -- there are children under the rubble," said Yevgen, who had been dining with two friends at the Ria Pizza restaurant.

"We were just about to leave," he said, but one of his friends was not "under the rubble", he told AFP after the blast.

As per AFP reports, a crowd quickly gathered at the site of the strike where fires broke out after the strikes as soldiers and rescue workers searched for other victims.

President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;condemned the missile strikes saying that S-300 missiles were used to carry out the deadly attacks.

"Exactly on the anniversary of the Russian terrorists' attack on Kremenchuk, on a shopping mall, where&nbsp;22 people were killed, Russian savages again fired missiles at the Kremenchuk district," he said.

"Today, Russian terrorists also brutally shelled Kramatorsk... Unfortunately, there are killed and wounded. Assistance is being provided. The rubble is being cleared."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-plane-belonging-to-wagner-chief-reportedly-lands-in-belarus-609259">Russia-Ukraine war: Lukashenko says Wagner chief Prigozhin in Belarus</a>

According to Donetsk governor Pavlo Kyrylenko, two Russian rockets hit the city of 150,000 people, one of the largest still under Ukrainian control in the country's besieged east.

"There was a good crowd" at the restaurant when the missile hit, one of its cooks, a 32-year-old Ruslan, told AFP.&nbsp;

"I had just arrived: I was standing there, and then I was buried," he said. "I was lucky."

Natalia, in tears, explained that her half-brother Nikita, 23, was inside near the pizza oven.

"They can't get him out, he was covered&nbsp;by debris," she said.

The strike also caused destruction and damaged several nearby buildings which have often been targeted by Russian forces since the invasion launched by Russia in February 2022.

"People told me they heard a plane flying, there was a hissing and then an explosion," a 19-year-old Ukrainian soldier who gave his war name as "Ghost", and was nearby when the strike occurred, told AFP.

He quickly entered the restaurant to help rescue workers. "A girl was trapped, injured. They haven't yet been able to get her out," he said. 
 
Kramatorsk is located in Donetsk, one of the four Ukrainian provinces that Russia claimed to annex last September but does not fully control.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian rocket strikes in Ukraine killed at least 11 people and injured 56 on Tuesday, said the country's interior minister. Among the dead at the cafe which was hit in Kramatorsk, a town located in eastern Ukraine, include three children, two of whom were twin sisters.

Russian rocket strikes in Ukraine killed at least 11 people and injured 56 on Tuesday, said the country's interior minister. Among the dead at the cafe which was hit in Kramatorsk, a town located in eastern Ukraine, include three children, two of whom were twin sisters. "As of 07:00 (0400 GMT) on June 28, the bodies of eight dead people (including three children, two of them born in 2008 and 2011) were unblocked from under the rubble of the destroyed cafe building," the State Emergency Service of Ukraine said on Telegram. The educational department of Kramatorsk city council said in a Telegram post, "Two sisters, both age 14, died in the missile attack." The Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs said that the attack in Kramatorsk wounded another 56 people. The rocket strikes hit a restaurant in the town of Kramatorsk, one of the largest still under Ukrainian control in the east, and is a popular eatery that is frequented by both journalists and soldiers. As per Ukrainian police, Russia fired two S-300 surface-to-air missiles at the city. The S-300 is a surface-to-air missile that cannot hit targets on the ground accurately, but have been repurposed it for loosely targeted strikes on cities. "There were a lot of people in there -- there are children under the rubble," said Yevgen, who had been dining with two friends at the Ria Pizza restaurant. "We were just about to leave," he said, but one of his friends was not "under the rubble", he told AFP after the blast. As per AFP reports, a crowd quickly gathered at the site of the strike where fires broke out after the strikes as soldiers and rescue workers searched for other victims. President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the missile strikes saying that S-300 missiles were used to carry out the deadly attacks. "Exactly on the anniversary of the Russian terrorists' attack on Kremenchuk, on a shopping mall, where 22 people were killed, Russian savages again fired missiles at the Kremenchuk district," he said. "Today, Russian terrorists also brutally shelled Kramatorsk... Unfortunately, there are killed and wounded. Assistance is being provided. The rubble is being cleared." Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Lukashenko says Wagner chief Prigozhin in Belarus According to Donetsk governor Pavlo Kyrylenko, two Russian rockets hit the city of 150,000 people, one of the largest still under Ukrainian control in the country's besieged east. "There was a good crowd" at the restaurant when the missile hit, one of its cooks, a 32-year-old Ruslan, told AFP. "I had just arrived: I was standing there, and then I was buried," he said. "I was lucky." Natalia, in tears, explained that her half-brother Nikita, 23, was inside near the pizza oven. "They can't get him out, he was covered by debris," she said. The strike also caused destruction and damaged several nearby buildings which have often been targeted by Russian forces since the invasion launched by Russia in February 2022. "People told me they heard a plane flying, there was a hissing and then an explosion," a 19-year-old Ukrainian soldier who gave his war name as "Ghost", and was nearby when the strike occurred, told AFP. He quickly entered the restaurant to help rescue workers. "A girl was trapped, injured. They haven't yet been able to get her out," he said. Kramatorsk is located in Donetsk, one of the four Ukrainian provinces that Russia claimed to annex last September but does not fully control. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian strikes at restaurant in Ukraine kill 11, including three kids, injure 56

An attack in front of the US consulate in Jeddah on Wednesday claimed the lives of a security guard and a gunman, said the Saudi police.

An armed man got out of a car in front of the consulate building and was killed as he exchanged gunfire with security officers, said a police spokesman.&nbsp;

"A person in a car stopped near the American Consulate building in Jeddah Governorate and got out of it carrying a firearm in his hand, so security authorities took the initiative to deal with him as required, and the exchange of fire resulted in his death", a spokesperson for the Makkah Region police said.

The State Department released a statement saying that no Americans were harmed in the incident that took place outside the consulate.

"At 6:45 pm (1545 GMT), a man stopped in a car in front of the consulate building and got out with a weapon in his hand," the official Saudi Press Agency quoted a police spokesman as saying.

"Security forces reacted... resulting in an exchange of fire that killed the assailant," it said.

A Nepalese security officer was wounded and later died.

"We offer our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased local guards member," the State Department said in a statement in Washington.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/muslim-pilgrims-head-to-mecca-for-haj-despite-surge-in-travel-costs-608930/#hajj-at-mecca-608924">Muslim pilgrims head to Mecca for hajj despite surge in travel costs</a>

The State Department said that the Saudi forces killed the attacker. It further added that the kingdom had launched a probe into the incident and that the United States was in touch for further developments.

"The consulate was appropriately locked down and no Americans were harmed in the attack," it said.

<h2>Attack occurs as Saudi Arabia welcomes nearly 1.8 million for annual Hajj pilgrimage</h2>

The attack took place as Saudi Arabia welcomed some 1.8 million Muslim faithful for the annual Hajj pilgrimage in the holy city of Mecca, some 70 kilometres (44 miles) from Jeddah.

The United States consulate in the coastal city of Jeddah on the Red Sea has previously also been a target of attacks. On 4 July 2016, American Independence Day, a suicide bomber blew himself up at the same place.

Another attack in 2004 had claimed the lives of at least 5 people.

(With inputs from agencies)

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An attack in front of the US consulate in Jeddah on Wednesday claimed the lives of a security guard and a gunman, said the Saudi police. An armed man got out of a car in front of the consulate building and was killed as he exchanged gunfire with security officers, said a police spokesman.

An attack in front of the US consulate in Jeddah on Wednesday claimed the lives of a security guard and a gunman, said the Saudi police. An armed man got out of a car in front of the consulate building and was killed as he exchanged gunfire with security officers, said a police spokesman. "A person in a car stopped near the American Consulate building in Jeddah Governorate and got out of it carrying a firearm in his hand, so security authorities took the initiative to deal with him as required, and the exchange of fire resulted in his death", a spokesperson for the Makkah Region police said. The State Department released a statement saying that no Americans were harmed in the incident that took place outside the consulate. "At 6:45 pm (1545 GMT), a man stopped in a car in front of the consulate building and got out with a weapon in his hand," the official Saudi Press Agency quoted a police spokesman as saying. "Security forces reacted... resulting in an exchange of fire that killed the assailant," it said. A Nepalese security officer was wounded and later died. "We offer our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased local guards member," the State Department said in a statement in Washington. Also read: Muslim pilgrims head to Mecca for hajj despite surge in travel costs The State Department said that the Saudi forces killed the attacker. It further added that the kingdom had launched a probe into the incident and that the United States was in touch for further developments. "The consulate was appropriately locked down and no Americans were harmed in the attack," it said. Attack occurs as Saudi Arabia welcomes nearly 1.8 million for annual Hajj pilgrimage The attack took place as Saudi Arabia welcomed some 1.8 million Muslim faithful for the annual Hajj pilgrimage in the holy city of Mecca, some 70 kilometres (44 miles) from Jeddah. The United States consulate in the coastal city of Jeddah on the Red Sea has previously also been a target of attacks. On 4 July 2016, American Independence Day, a suicide bomber blew himself up at the same place. Another attack in 2004 had claimed the lives of at least 5 people. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Attack at US consulate in Jeddah claims lives of security guard, gunman

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said that he did not doubt the support of Russian citizens during the uprising by the mercenary group Wagner.

"I did not doubt the reaction in Dagestan and in all of the country," he said as he met Sergei Melikov, the head of the Caucasus region, according to an extract of the meeting aired on Russian television.

Putin released this statement in his response to Melikov, who had remarked that "there was not a single person in Dagestan who did not support decisions made by the leaders of the Russian Federation" over the aborted rebellion.

<h2>Putin wished to ‘wipe out’ Wagner chief after mutiny</h2>

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko claimed that he had requested Russian President Vladimir Putin not to "wipe out" mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin amid the armed mutiny of Wagner group that pushed Russia to the brink of civil war.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-vladimir-putin-wanted-to-kill-wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-but-stopped-heres-how-609686">Explained | Putin wanted to kill Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, but stopped. Here's what happened</a>

Initially, Putin had promised to crush the mutiny which it compared to the wartime turmoil that had led to the revolution of 1917 followed by civil war. However, hours later the Wagner chief finalised a deal which allowed him along with some of his fighters to go to Belarus.

On Tuesday, Wagner chief flew to Belarus from Russia. Lukashenko, while talking about the conversation he had with Putin on Saturday, made use of the Russian criminal slang phrase used for killing someone which is similar to the English phrase to "wipe out".

"I also understood: a brutal decision had been made (and it was the undertone of Putin's address) to wipe out the mutineers," said Lukashenko in a meeting of his army officials as well as journalists on Tuesday, as reported by the Belarusian state media.

"I suggested to Putin not to rush. 'Come on,' I said, 'Let's talk with Prigozhin, with his commanders.' To which he told me: 'Listen, Sasha, it's useless. He doesn't even pick up the phone, he doesn’t want to talk to anyone'," he stated.&nbsp;

The same Russian verb was used by Putin in 1999 about Chechen militants, as he vowed to "wipe them out in the sh*thouse". The remarks made by Putin became a widely quoted emblem of the Russian leader's severe persona.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said that he did not doubt the support of Russian citizens during the uprising by the mercenary group Wagner. "I did not doubt the reaction in Dagestan and in all of the country," he said as he met Sergei Melikov, the head of the Caucasus region, according to an extract of the meeting aired on Russian television.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said that he did not doubt the support of Russian citizens during the uprising by the mercenary group Wagner. "I did not doubt the reaction in Dagestan and in all of the country," he said as he met Sergei Melikov, the head of the Caucasus region, according to an extract of the meeting aired on Russian television. Putin released this statement in his response to Melikov, who had remarked that "there was not a single person in Dagestan who did not support decisions made by the leaders of the Russian Federation" over the aborted rebellion. Putin wished to ‘wipe out’ Wagner chief after mutiny Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko claimed that he had requested Russian President Vladimir Putin not to "wipe out" mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin amid the armed mutiny of Wagner group that pushed Russia to the brink of civil war. Also read: Explained | Putin wanted to kill Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, but stopped. Here's what happened Initially, Putin had promised to crush the mutiny which it compared to the wartime turmoil that had led to the revolution of 1917 followed by civil war. However, hours later the Wagner chief finalised a deal which allowed him along with some of his fighters to go to Belarus. On Tuesday, Wagner chief flew to Belarus from Russia. Lukashenko, while talking about the conversation he had with Putin on Saturday, made use of the Russian criminal slang phrase used for killing someone which is similar to the English phrase to "wipe out". "I also understood: a brutal decision had been made (and it was the undertone of Putin's address) to wipe out the mutineers," said Lukashenko in a meeting of his army officials as well as journalists on Tuesday, as reported by the Belarusian state media. "I suggested to Putin not to rush. 'Come on,' I said, 'Let's talk with Prigozhin, with his commanders.' To which he told me: 'Listen, Sasha, it's useless. He doesn't even pick up the phone, he doesn’t want to talk to anyone'," he stated. The same Russian verb was used by Putin in 1999 about Chechen militants, as he vowed to "wipe them out in the sh*thouse". The remarks made by Putin became a widely quoted emblem of the Russian leader's severe persona. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

President Vladimir Putin says 'did not doubt' support of Russian citizens during mutiny

Poland, in a deal announced on Wednesday by the Pentagon, is set to buy an advanced Patriot missile defence systems worth up to $15 billion.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency released a statement saying that the sale would involve up to 48 Patriot PAC-3 launchers and up to 644 Patriot PAC-3 MSE projectiles, along with radars and control components for the systems. &nbsp;

The agency further added that the State Department, which is authorised to approve US arms export deals, had okayed the sale. This will give Poland some of the most advanced US air defence systems.

"The proposed sale will improve Poland's missile defence capability and contribute to Poland’s military goals of updating capability while further enhancing interoperability with the United States and other allies," the agency said in a statement.

The Patriots are curated for use against incoming high-speed projectiles and aircraft.

<h2>Poland gets first batch of Abrams&nbsp;</h2>

On Wednesday, Poland also received the first shipment of US-made advanced Abrams tanks. The defence minister said that it is a boost to the nation's military capabilities amid the Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/leaked-intel-foils-wagners-attempt-to-capture-russias-military-leadership-report-609743">Wagner aimed to capture Russia's military leadership, sped up efforts after plans leaked: Report</a>

Poland's Defence Minister Mariusz Blaszczak told reporters, "The first tanks are already on Polish soil, it's an important day for the Polish army. This year we will have more tanks and they will form a battalion of Abrams tanks," Blaszczak said, hailing the US-made Abrams as "the best tanks in the world."&nbsp;

The authorities in Warsaw ordered a total of 366 Abrams tanks from the US, with the first batch comprising 14 tanks which arrived at the port city of Szczecin. The shipment is part of a deal worth $1.4 billion for 116 M1A1 Abrams tanks that were previously used by the US Marine Corps.&nbsp;

<h2>Poland says Wagner troops in Belarus 'threat' to countries of the region</h2>

Polish President Andrzej Duda said on Wednesday (June 28) during a visit to Ukraine that the presence of Wagner troops in Belarus could be a potential "threat" to the countries of the region.&nbsp;

Duda told reporters in Kyiv, "It is difficult for us to exclude today that the presence of the Wagner Group in Belarus could pose a potential threat to Poland, which shares a border with Belarus, a threat to Lithuania... as well as potentially to Latvia."&nbsp;

On Tuesday, a jet belonging to Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin flew out of Rostov and landed near Minsk, which was later confirmed by Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko. The Belarusian leader was quoted as saying by the state media Belta that Prigozin was currently in Belarus.&nbsp;

He said that "security guarantees have been given" as promised to Russian President Vladimir Putin. "I see Prigozhin's been flying aboard this plane - yes, indeed he’s in Belarus today," he further added.&nbsp;

Lukashenko mentioned that Belarus is not building any camps for the group, but will accommodate them if they want. However, their presence itself has become a matter of concern for the Polish President.&nbsp;

(With inputs from&nbsp;agencies)

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Poland, in a deal announced on Wednesday by the Pentagon, is set to buy an advanced Patriot missile defence systems worth up to $15 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency released a statement saying that the sale would involve up to 48 Patriot PAC-3 launchers and up to 644 Patriot PAC-3 MSE projectiles, along with radars and control components for the systems.

Poland, in a deal announced on Wednesday by the Pentagon, is set to buy an advanced Patriot missile defence systems worth up to $15 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency released a statement saying that the sale would involve up to 48 Patriot PAC-3 launchers and up to 644 Patriot PAC-3 MSE projectiles, along with radars and control components for the systems. The agency further added that the State Department, which is authorised to approve US arms export deals, had okayed the sale. This will give Poland some of the most advanced US air defence systems. "The proposed sale will improve Poland's missile defence capability and contribute to Poland’s military goals of updating capability while further enhancing interoperability with the United States and other allies," the agency said in a statement. The Patriots are curated for use against incoming high-speed projectiles and aircraft. Poland gets first batch of Abrams On Wednesday, Poland also received the first shipment of US-made advanced Abrams tanks. The defence minister said that it is a boost to the nation's military capabilities amid the Russia-Ukraine war. Also read: Wagner aimed to capture Russia's military leadership, sped up efforts after plans leaked: Report Poland's Defence Minister Mariusz Blaszczak told reporters, "The first tanks are already on Polish soil, it's an important day for the Polish army. This year we will have more tanks and they will form a battalion of Abrams tanks," Blaszczak said, hailing the US-made Abrams as "the best tanks in the world." The authorities in Warsaw ordered a total of 366 Abrams tanks from the US, with the first batch comprising 14 tanks which arrived at the port city of Szczecin. The shipment is part of a deal worth $1.4 billion for 116 M1A1 Abrams tanks that were previously used by the US Marine Corps. Poland says Wagner troops in Belarus 'threat' to countries of the region Polish President Andrzej Duda said on Wednesday (June 28) during a visit to Ukraine that the presence of Wagner troops in Belarus could be a potential "threat" to the countries of the region. Duda told reporters in Kyiv, "It is difficult for us to exclude today that the presence of the Wagner Group in Belarus could pose a potential threat to Poland, which shares a border with Belarus, a threat to Lithuania... as well as potentially to Latvia." On Tuesday, a jet belonging to Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin flew out of Rostov and landed near Minsk, which was later confirmed by Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko. The Belarusian leader was quoted as saying by the state media Belta that Prigozin was currently in Belarus. He said that "security guarantees have been given" as promised to Russian President Vladimir Putin. "I see Prigozhin's been flying aboard this plane - yes, indeed he’s in Belarus today," he further added. Lukashenko mentioned that Belarus is not building any camps for the group, but will accommodate them if they want. However, their presence itself has become a matter of concern for the Polish President. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Poland set to buy US Patriot missile defence systems worth up to $15 billion

As per a new report published on Tuesday by the inspector general of the Small Business Administration, more than $200 billion may have been stolen from two large COVID-19 relief initiatives.

According to new estimates from a federal watchdog probing federally funded programs that helped small businesses survive the pandemic.

The numbers issued by the United States Small Business Administration inspector general, are much greater than the office's previous promontories and highlight how vulnerable the Paycheck Protection and COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan programs were to fraudsters, particularly during the early stages of the pandemic.

The inspector general’s report said, “at least 17 per cent of all COVID-EIDL and PPP funds were disbursed to potentially fraudulent actors.”&nbsp;

As per the report, the fraud estimate for the COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan program is more than $136 billion, which represents 33 per cent of the total money spent on that program.

The inspector general said that the Paycheck Protection fraud estimate is $64 billion.

In comments attached to the report, a senior SBA official disputed the new numbers. Bailey DeVries, SBA’s acting associate administrator for capital access, said the inspector general’s “approach contains serious flaws that significantly overestimate fraud and unintentionally mislead the public to believe that the work we did together had no significant impact in protecting against fraud.”

Previously, the SBA inspector general had estimated fraud in the coronavirus disaster loan program at $86 billion and the Paycheck Protection program at $20 billion.

The SBA inspector general, Hannibal “Mike” Ware, said in a statement Tuesday that the report “utilizes investigative casework, prior (inspector general) reporting, and cutting-edge data analysis to identify multiple fraud schemes used to potentially steal over $200 billion from American taxpayers and exploit programs meant to help those in need.”

Earlier this month, Ware, in an interview with The Associated Press, said that these latest fraud figures won’t be the last ones issued by his office.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-intelligence-claims-no-direct-evidence-to-prove-coronavirus-created-in-wuhan-lab-608101">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-intelligence-claims-no-direct-evidence-to-prove-coronavirus-created-in-wuhan-lab-608101">US intelligence: No direct evidence found to prove coronavirus created in Wuhan lab, China obstructing review</a>

“We will continue to assess fraud until we’re finished with the investigations on these things,” Ware said. That could be a long while. Ware’s office has a backlog of more than 90,000 actionable leads into pandemic relief fraud, which amounts to nearly a century’s worth of work.

Han Nguyen, a spokesman for the SBA, said in a statement Tuesday that it is “vital to clarify that 86% of the likely fraud in the PPP and COVID-EIDL programs occurred in the first nine months of those programs when, as the (inspector general) has often noted, the rush to get funds out led to unwise decisions to pull down anti-fraud guardrails.”

<h2>Biden administration puts strict rules to control pandemic fraud</h2>

The Biden administration put in place stricter rules to stem pandemic fraud, including use of the “Do Not Pay” database.

Recently, Biden also proposed a $1.6 billion plan to boost law enforcement efforts to go after pandemic relief fraudsters.&nbsp;

“I think the bottom line is regardless of what the (total fraud) number is, it emanates overwhelmingly from three programs that were designed and originated in 2020 with too many large holes that opened the door to criminal fraud,” Gene Sperling, the White House American Rescue Plan coordinator, said in an early June interview.

“The swift distribution of funds and program integrity are not mutually exclusive,” Westbrooks said Tuesday. “The government can walk and chew gum at the same time. They should have put basic fraud controls in place to verify people’s identity and to make sure targeted relief was getting into the right hands.”

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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As per a new report published on Tuesday by the inspector general of the Small Business Administration, more than $200 billion may have been stolen from two large COVID-19 relief initiatives.

As per a new report published on Tuesday by the inspector general of the Small Business Administration, more than $200 billion may have been stolen from two large COVID-19 relief initiatives. According to new estimates from a federal watchdog probing federally funded programs that helped small businesses survive the pandemic. The numbers issued by the United States Small Business Administration inspector general, are much greater than the office's previous promontories and highlight how vulnerable the Paycheck Protection and COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan programs were to fraudsters, particularly during the early stages of the pandemic. The inspector general’s report said, “at least 17 per cent of all COVID-EIDL and PPP funds were disbursed to potentially fraudulent actors.” As per the report, the fraud estimate for the COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan program is more than $136 billion, which represents 33 per cent of the total money spent on that program. The inspector general said that the Paycheck Protection fraud estimate is $64 billion. In comments attached to the report, a senior SBA official disputed the new numbers. Bailey DeVries, SBA’s acting associate administrator for capital access, said the inspector general’s “approach contains serious flaws that significantly overestimate fraud and unintentionally mislead the public to believe that the work we did together had no significant impact in protecting against fraud.” Previously, the SBA inspector general had estimated fraud in the coronavirus disaster loan program at $86 billion and the Paycheck Protection program at $20 billion. The SBA inspector general, Hannibal “Mike” Ware, said in a statement Tuesday that the report “utilizes investigative casework, prior (inspector general) reporting, and cutting-edge data analysis to identify multiple fraud schemes used to potentially steal over $200 billion from American taxpayers and exploit programs meant to help those in need.” Earlier this month, Ware, in an interview with The Associated Press, said that these latest fraud figures won’t be the last ones issued by his office. Also read: US intelligence: No direct evidence found to prove coronavirus created in Wuhan lab, China obstructing review “We will continue to assess fraud until we’re finished with the investigations on these things,” Ware said. That could be a long while. Ware’s office has a backlog of more than 90,000 actionable leads into pandemic relief fraud, which amounts to nearly a century’s worth of work. Han Nguyen, a spokesman for the SBA, said in a statement Tuesday that it is “vital to clarify that 86% of the likely fraud in the PPP and COVID-EIDL programs occurred in the first nine months of those programs when, as the (inspector general) has often noted, the rush to get funds out led to unwise decisions to pull down anti-fraud guardrails.” Biden administration puts strict rules to control pandemic fraud The Biden administration put in place stricter rules to stem pandemic fraud, including use of the “Do Not Pay” database. Recently, Biden also proposed a $1.6 billion plan to boost law enforcement efforts to go after pandemic relief fraudsters. “I think the bottom line is regardless of what the (total fraud) number is, it emanates overwhelmingly from three programs that were designed and originated in 2020 with too many large holes that opened the door to criminal fraud,” Gene Sperling, the White House American Rescue Plan coordinator, said in an early June interview. “The swift distribution of funds and program integrity are not mutually exclusive,” Westbrooks said Tuesday. “The government can walk and chew gum at the same time. They should have put basic fraud controls in place to verify people’s identity and to make sure targeted relief was getting into the right hands.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Over $200bn likely stolen from US government's COVID-19 relief programmes, says federal watchdog

Eastern European NATO countries on Tuesday warned that Russian mercenary group, Wagner's move to Belarus would create greater regional instability. However, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that the alliance is ready to defend itself against any threat.

"If Wagner deploys its serial killers in Belarus, all neighbouring countries face the even bigger danger of instability," Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said after a meeting in The Hague with Stoltenberg and government leaders from six other NATO allies.

"This is really serious and very concerning, and we have to make very strong decisions. It requires a very, very tough answer of NATO," Polish President Andrzej Duda added.

On Tuesday, mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin arrived in Belarus under an agreement negotiated by President Alexander Lukashenko that ended mutiny by the group in Russia on Saturday.

NATO's Stoltenberg said it was too early to say what this could mean for NATO allies, and stressed the increased defence of the alliance's eastern flank in recent years.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-plane-belonging-to-wagner-chief-reportedly-lands-in-belarus-609259">Russia-Ukraine war: Lukashenko says Wagner chief Prigozhin in Belarus</a>

"We have sent a clear message to Moscow and Minsk that NATO is there to protect every ally, every inch of NATO territory," Stoltenberg said.

"We have already increased our military presence in the eastern part of the alliance and we will make further decisions to further strengthen our collective defence with more high-readiness forces and more capabilities at the upcoming summit."

Stoltenberg said the mutiny had shown that Putin's "illegal war" against Ukraine had deepened divisions in Russia.

"At the same time we must not underestimate Russia. So it's even more important that we continue to provide Ukraine with our support."

<h2>Putin says Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus'</h2>

In a televised address to the nation on Monday, President Putin said that he would honour his promise to allow Wagner fighters to relocate to Belarus, if they wanted, or to sign a contract with the Defence Ministry or simply return to their families.

"I thank those soldiers and commanders of the Wagner Group who made the only right decision - they did not turn to fratricidal bloodshed, they stopped at the last line. Today you have the opportunity to continue serving Russia by entering into a contract with the Ministry of Defence or other law enforcement agencies or to return to your family and friends. Whoever wants to can go to Belarus. The promise I made will be fulfilled."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Eastern European NATO countries on Tuesday warned that Russian mercenary group, Wagner's move to Belarus would create greater regional instability. However, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that the alliance is ready to defend itself against any threat.

Eastern European NATO countries on Tuesday warned that Russian mercenary group, Wagner's move to Belarus would create greater regional instability. However, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that the alliance is ready to defend itself against any threat. "If Wagner deploys its serial killers in Belarus, all neighbouring countries face the even bigger danger of instability," Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said after a meeting in The Hague with Stoltenberg and government leaders from six other NATO allies. "This is really serious and very concerning, and we have to make very strong decisions. It requires a very, very tough answer of NATO," Polish President Andrzej Duda added. On Tuesday, mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin arrived in Belarus under an agreement negotiated by President Alexander Lukashenko that ended mutiny by the group in Russia on Saturday. NATO's Stoltenberg said it was too early to say what this could mean for NATO allies, and stressed the increased defence of the alliance's eastern flank in recent years. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Lukashenko says Wagner chief Prigozhin in Belarus "We have sent a clear message to Moscow and Minsk that NATO is there to protect every ally, every inch of NATO territory," Stoltenberg said. "We have already increased our military presence in the eastern part of the alliance and we will make further decisions to further strengthen our collective defence with more high-readiness forces and more capabilities at the upcoming summit." Stoltenberg said the mutiny had shown that Putin's "illegal war" against Ukraine had deepened divisions in Russia. "At the same time we must not underestimate Russia. So it's even more important that we continue to provide Ukraine with our support." Putin says Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus' In a televised address to the nation on Monday, President Putin said that he would honour his promise to allow Wagner fighters to relocate to Belarus, if they wanted, or to sign a contract with the Defence Ministry or simply return to their families. "I thank those soldiers and commanders of the Wagner Group who made the only right decision - they did not turn to fratricidal bloodshed, they stopped at the last line. Today you have the opportunity to continue serving Russia by entering into a contract with the Ministry of Defence or other law enforcement agencies or to return to your family and friends. Whoever wants to can go to Belarus. The promise I made will be fulfilled." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Eastern European NATO allies say Wagner's move to Belarus will create regional instability

In order to bolster Ukraine's counteroffensive against Russian forces, the United States on Tuesday announced a fresh set of arms for Kyiv which included armoured vehicles, precision munitions and mine-clearing equipment.

The package of $500 million came days after a mutiny by the mercenary group Wagner impacted Russia's war-making capacity.

The Pentagon released a statement saying that the weaponry included 30 Bradley fighting vehicles and 25 Stryker personnel carriers, more rockets for Patriot air defence and Himars precision attack systems; small arms and over 22 millions small arms rounds and grenades.

The package "includes key capabilities to support Ukraine's counteroffensive operations, strengthen its air defences to help Ukraine protect its people... and other equipment to help Ukraine push back on Russia's war of aggression."

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-putin-begins-address-to-russians-thanks-citizens-for-patriotism-during-wagner-revolt-609015">&nbsp;Putin says Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus' in his address to Russians</a>

The fresh set of arms is aimed at backing the Ukranian military's push to break through the front lines in the south of the country in hopes of driving occupying Russian troops out.

Earlier on Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that despite the short-lived Wagner revolt led by his longtime crony Yevgeny Prigozhin, Moscow did not need to redeploy any troops from fighting in Ukraine.

"We did not have to take combat units from the special military operation zone," Putin said, adding that "all military formations continued to wage a heroic fight at the front."

<h2>Putin accuses West of wanting Russians to "kill each other"</h2>

The Russian president on Monday accused Ukraine and its Western allies of wanting Russians to "kill each other". During a Monday night address, he also claimed that Prigozhin's uprising was "doomed to fail". He made a special mention to the civilians for showing "unity" in the face of a "treacherous" rebellion.&nbsp;

The Kremlin on Tuesday said that Putin's authority had not been weakened by the armed mutiny. Meanwhile, Putin said that the group of Wagner mercenaries failed to win the support of the Russian people or its army.&nbsp;

In a televised address to law enforcement agencies outside the Kremlin, he said, "People who were drawn into the rebellion saw that the army and the people were not with them."&nbsp;

Putin told troops from the defence ministry, National Guard, FSB security service and interior ministry, "You de facto stopped a civil war."&nbsp;

"In the confrontation with rebels, our comrades-in-arms, pilots, were killed. They did not flinch and honourably fulfilled their orders and their military duty," he said, before holding a minute's silence in their memory, without saying how many died.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In order to bolster Ukraine's counteroffensive against Russian forces, the United States on Tuesday announced a fresh set of arms for Kyiv which included armoured vehicles, precision munitions and mine-clearing equipment.

In order to bolster Ukraine's counteroffensive against Russian forces, the United States on Tuesday announced a fresh set of arms for Kyiv which included armoured vehicles, precision munitions and mine-clearing equipment. The package of $500 million came days after a mutiny by the mercenary group Wagner impacted Russia's war-making capacity. The Pentagon released a statement saying that the weaponry included 30 Bradley fighting vehicles and 25 Stryker personnel carriers, more rockets for Patriot air defence and Himars precision attack systems; small arms and over 22 millions small arms rounds and grenades. The package "includes key capabilities to support Ukraine's counteroffensive operations, strengthen its air defences to help Ukraine protect its people... and other equipment to help Ukraine push back on Russia's war of aggression." Also read: Putin says Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus' in his address to Russians The fresh set of arms is aimed at backing the Ukranian military's push to break through the front lines in the south of the country in hopes of driving occupying Russian troops out. Earlier on Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that despite the short-lived Wagner revolt led by his longtime crony Yevgeny Prigozhin, Moscow did not need to redeploy any troops from fighting in Ukraine. "We did not have to take combat units from the special military operation zone," Putin said, adding that "all military formations continued to wage a heroic fight at the front." Putin accuses West of wanting Russians to "kill each other" The Russian president on Monday accused Ukraine and its Western allies of wanting Russians to "kill each other". During a Monday night address, he also claimed that Prigozhin's uprising was "doomed to fail". He made a special mention to the civilians for showing "unity" in the face of a "treacherous" rebellion. The Kremlin on Tuesday said that Putin's authority had not been weakened by the armed mutiny. Meanwhile, Putin said that the group of Wagner mercenaries failed to win the support of the Russian people or its army. In a televised address to law enforcement agencies outside the Kremlin, he said, "People who were drawn into the rebellion saw that the army and the people were not with them." Putin told troops from the defence ministry, National Guard, FSB security service and interior ministry, "You de facto stopped a civil war." "In the confrontation with rebels, our comrades-in-arms, pilots, were killed. They did not flinch and honourably fulfilled their orders and their military duty," he said, before holding a minute's silence in their memory, without saying how many died. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US announces $500 mn in armour, air defence for Ukraine to bolster counteroffensive against Russia

On Tuesday morning, a French police officer shot dead a 17-year-old in the Paris suburb of Nanterre for fleeing a traffic check and failing to comply with an order to stop his car.

The incident ignited unrest in the city, prompting shock and anger among residents questioning the readiness of security forces to resort to violence.

The teenager was driving a rental car in the western Paris suburb of Nanterre in the early hours of Tuesday when the police pulled him over for violating road rules, said the prosecutors.

BFM TV broadcast images show clashes breaking out between youths and police on Tuesday evening, as per AFP reports.

The Nanterre prosecutor's office said that the 17-year-old died from the wounds after being shot at by the police.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/pak-pm-shehbaz-sharif-takes-away-umbrella-from-woman-leaving-her-walking-in-rain-watch-607665">Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif takes away umbrella from woman, leaving her to walk behind in rain. Watch!</a>

As per various news agencies, a video of the incident being circulated on social media showed two police officers beside the car, a Mercedes AMG, with one shooting as the driver pulled away.

<h2>French policeman detained on homicide charges</h2>

The Nanterre prosecutors' office said that the officer accused of shooting at the teenager has been detained on homicide charges.

Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin told parliament the two police officers were being interrogated and acknowledged that the images posted on social media were "extremely shocking".

He urged people to "respect the grief of the family and the presumption of innocence of the police".

Paris police chief Laurent Nunez, in an interview with BFM television, said that the action of the policeman "raises questions", though he said it was possible the officer felt threatened.

The family's lawyer Yassine Bouzrou told BFM TV that while all parties needed to wait for the result of the probe, the images "clearly showed a policeman killing a young man in cold blood".

"This is a long way from any kind of legitimate defence," he said, adding the family had filed a complaint accusing the police of "lying" by initially claiming the car had tried to run down the officers.&nbsp;

The incident sparked anger among residents&nbsp;which led to protests in Nanterre. The demonstrators lit fires, set a car alight, and destroyed bus stops on Tuesday evening.

According to the authorities, nine people were arrested in the confrontations.

Nanterre mayor Patrick Jarry said he was "shocked" by the video images and passed his "sincere condolences to the boy's mother".

"He hopes that the investigations opened will make it possible to shed light as quickly as possible on the exact circumstances of this tragedy," his office said.

"It's so sad, he was so young," said AFP quoted Samia Bough, 62, the teenager's former neighbour, who came to lay a bouquet of yellow roses at the scene as saying.

(With inputs from agencies)

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On Tuesday morning, a French police officer shot dead a 17-year-old in the Paris suburb of Nanterre for fleeing a traffic check and failing to comply with an order to stop his car.

On Tuesday morning, a French police officer shot dead a 17-year-old in the Paris suburb of Nanterre for fleeing a traffic check and failing to comply with an order to stop his car. The incident ignited unrest in the city, prompting shock and anger among residents questioning the readiness of security forces to resort to violence. The teenager was driving a rental car in the western Paris suburb of Nanterre in the early hours of Tuesday when the police pulled him over for violating road rules, said the prosecutors. BFM TV broadcast images show clashes breaking out between youths and police on Tuesday evening, as per AFP reports. The Nanterre prosecutor's office said that the 17-year-old died from the wounds after being shot at by the police. Also read: Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif takes away umbrella from woman, leaving her to walk behind in rain. Watch! As per various news agencies, a video of the incident being circulated on social media showed two police officers beside the car, a Mercedes AMG, with one shooting as the driver pulled away. French policeman detained on homicide charges The Nanterre prosecutors' office said that the officer accused of shooting at the teenager has been detained on homicide charges. Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin told parliament the two police officers were being interrogated and acknowledged that the images posted on social media were "extremely shocking". He urged people to "respect the grief of the family and the presumption of innocence of the police". Paris police chief Laurent Nunez, in an interview with BFM television, said that the action of the policeman "raises questions", though he said it was possible the officer felt threatened. The family's lawyer Yassine Bouzrou told BFM TV that while all parties needed to wait for the result of the probe, the images "clearly showed a policeman killing a young man in cold blood". "This is a long way from any kind of legitimate defence," he said, adding the family had filed a complaint accusing the police of "lying" by initially claiming the car had tried to run down the officers. The incident sparked anger among residents which led to protests in Nanterre. The demonstrators lit fires, set a car alight, and destroyed bus stops on Tuesday evening. According to the authorities, nine people were arrested in the confrontations. Nanterre mayor Patrick Jarry said he was "shocked" by the video images and passed his "sincere condolences to the boy's mother". "He hopes that the investigations opened will make it possible to shed light as quickly as possible on the exact circumstances of this tragedy," his office said. "It's so sad, he was so young," said AFP quoted Samia Bough, 62, the teenager's former neighbour, who came to lay a bouquet of yellow roses at the scene as saying. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

French police officer detained on homicide charges after killing teenager for fleeing traffic stop

Taiwan's defence ministry, on Tuesday, released a statement saying that it spotted two Russian warships off its eastern coast and then sent its own aircraft and ships to keep watch.

In a statement, the ministry said the two frigates sailed in a northerly direction off Taiwan's east coast and then "departed from our response zone" in a southeasterly direction off the port city of Suao, which is home to a major Taiwanese naval base.

Taiwan's military sent aircraft and ships to keep a watch and also activated shore-based projectile systems, it further added without providing extensive details.

On Tuesday, Russia's Interfax news agency reported that a detachment of ships of the Russian Pacific Fleet had entered the southern parts of the Philippine Sea to perform tasks as part of a long-range sea passage.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/public-support-for-taiwan-president-at-4-year-low-after-her-party-becomes-caught-up-in-metoo-scandals-608522">Public support for Taiwan president at four-year low after her party gets mired in #MeToo allegations</a>

Taiwan has joined the United States and its allies in enacting wide-ranging sanctions against Russia following its invasion of Ukraine.

<h2>Taiwan scrambles jets as 10 Chinese warplanes cross median line of strait</h2>

Earlier this month, 10 Chinese warplanes were spotted crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait after which combat patrols were carried out by four Chinese warships.

For the second time in a week, renewed Chinese military activity has been reported by Taiwan after 37 Chinese military aircraft flew into the air defence zone of the island on Thursday, some of which then flew into the western Pacific.

China, which has continued to claim the democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, in the past three years has regularly flown its air force near the island, though it has not entered into the territorial air space of Taiwan.

Taiwan's defence ministry, in a short statement, said that around 2 pm (0600 GMT) on Sunday, 24 Chinese air force planes were detected by them, which included J-10, J-11, J-16 and Su-30 fighters, as well as H-6 bombers.

The ministry stated that 10 had crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, which separates the two countries and was considered an unofficial barrier earlier.

Four Chinese naval ships were also involved in "joint combat readiness patrols", stated the ministry.

Taiwan stated that it has its own fighters and deployed land-based missile systems and ships to keep watch.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Taiwan's defence ministry, on Tuesday, released a statement saying that it spotted two Russian warships off its eastern coast and then sent its own aircraft and ships to keep watch.

Taiwan's defence ministry, on Tuesday, released a statement saying that it spotted two Russian warships off its eastern coast and then sent its own aircraft and ships to keep watch. In a statement, the ministry said the two frigates sailed in a northerly direction off Taiwan's east coast and then "departed from our response zone" in a southeasterly direction off the port city of Suao, which is home to a major Taiwanese naval base. Taiwan's military sent aircraft and ships to keep a watch and also activated shore-based projectile systems, it further added without providing extensive details. On Tuesday, Russia's Interfax news agency reported that a detachment of ships of the Russian Pacific Fleet had entered the southern parts of the Philippine Sea to perform tasks as part of a long-range sea passage. Also read: Public support for Taiwan president at four-year low after her party gets mired in #MeToo allegations Taiwan has joined the United States and its allies in enacting wide-ranging sanctions against Russia following its invasion of Ukraine. Taiwan scrambles jets as 10 Chinese warplanes cross median line of strait Earlier this month, 10 Chinese warplanes were spotted crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait after which combat patrols were carried out by four Chinese warships. For the second time in a week, renewed Chinese military activity has been reported by Taiwan after 37 Chinese military aircraft flew into the air defence zone of the island on Thursday, some of which then flew into the western Pacific. China, which has continued to claim the democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, in the past three years has regularly flown its air force near the island, though it has not entered into the territorial air space of Taiwan. Taiwan's defence ministry, in a short statement, said that around 2 pm (0600 GMT) on Sunday, 24 Chinese air force planes were detected by them, which included J-10, J-11, J-16 and Su-30 fighters, as well as H-6 bombers. The ministry stated that 10 had crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, which separates the two countries and was considered an unofficial barrier earlier. Four Chinese naval ships were also involved in "joint combat readiness patrols", stated the ministry. Taiwan stated that it has its own fighters and deployed land-based missile systems and ships to keep watch. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Taiwan spots 2 Russian warships off its eastern coast

Russia's defence ministry released a statement on Monday saying that it had dashed fighter jets after it intercepted two British warplanes approaching its border above the Black Sea.

"As the Russian fighter jets approached, the foreign warplanes turned around and distanced themselves from the Russian border," the ministry said in a statement.

The ministry added that the planes it chased away&nbsp;were two British Typhoon jets accompanied by an RC-135 reconnaissance aircraft.

"The Russian planes safely returned to their airfield. There was no violation of the Russian border," said the ministry.

As Moscow continues its offensive in Ukraine, the incidents involving Russian and Western aircraft have increased over the Black Sea and Baltic Sea.

<h2>Russia scrambles Su-27 to intercept two US military jets over Baltic Sea</h2>

Earlier, in the month of May, Russia claimed to have scrambled a Su-27 fighter jet to "prevent violations of the state border" by two US Air Force strategic bombers flying over the Baltic Sea.&nbsp;

The Russian defence ministry said, "After removing the foreign military aircraft from the Russian state border, the Russian fighter went back to its air base."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-to-repel-attack-by-ukraine-on-black-sea-warship-603188">Russia claims it repelled attack by Ukraine on Black Sea warship</a>

The defence ministry claimed that the two aircraft were B-1 strategic bombers belonging to the US Air Force. According to the statement, the army prevented the violation of the border.&nbsp;

The ministry added, "The flight of the Russian fighter was carried out in strict accordance with international rules for the use of airspace."&nbsp;

<h2>Russian jet collides with US drone</h2>

In the month of March, a major incident took place after an American drone crashed after colliding with a Russian jet over the Black Sea.

The US military said that a Russian Su-27 fighter jet downed an American MQ-9 Reaper drone, and called it a "reckless" incident.&nbsp;

A video was released by the Pentagon, which showed the Russian military jet coming very close to a US military drone and dumping fuel near it. The US said that the Russian aircraft damaged the propeller during the intercept.&nbsp;

The Pentagon said that the de-classified video, which is about 40 seconds long, has been edited by the US military for length but shows events in sequential order.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Russia denied the accusations levelled by the US that its jets acted recklessly. Moscow said that the drone crashed after making "sharp manoeuvres," having "provocatively" flown close to Russian air space near Crimea.&nbsp;

A ministry statement had said that Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu told his US counterpart that the American drone flights near Crimea's coast "were provocative in nature" and could lead to "an escalation in the Black Sea zone."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia's defence ministry released a statement on Monday saying that it had dashed fighter jets after it intercepted two British warplanes approaching its border above the Black Sea.

Russia's defence ministry released a statement on Monday saying that it had dashed fighter jets after it intercepted two British warplanes approaching its border above the Black Sea. "As the Russian fighter jets approached, the foreign warplanes turned around and distanced themselves from the Russian border," the ministry said in a statement. The ministry added that the planes it chased away were two British Typhoon jets accompanied by an RC-135 reconnaissance aircraft. "The Russian planes safely returned to their airfield. There was no violation of the Russian border," said the ministry. As Moscow continues its offensive in Ukraine, the incidents involving Russian and Western aircraft have increased over the Black Sea and Baltic Sea. Russia scrambles Su-27 to intercept two US military jets over Baltic Sea Earlier, in the month of May, Russia claimed to have scrambled a Su-27 fighter jet to "prevent violations of the state border" by two US Air Force strategic bombers flying over the Baltic Sea. The Russian defence ministry said, "After removing the foreign military aircraft from the Russian state border, the Russian fighter went back to its air base." Also read: Russia claims it repelled attack by Ukraine on Black Sea warship The defence ministry claimed that the two aircraft were B-1 strategic bombers belonging to the US Air Force. According to the statement, the army prevented the violation of the border. The ministry added, "The flight of the Russian fighter was carried out in strict accordance with international rules for the use of airspace." Russian jet collides with US drone In the month of March, a major incident took place after an American drone crashed after colliding with a Russian jet over the Black Sea. The US military said that a Russian Su-27 fighter jet downed an American MQ-9 Reaper drone, and called it a "reckless" incident. A video was released by the Pentagon, which showed the Russian military jet coming very close to a US military drone and dumping fuel near it. The US said that the Russian aircraft damaged the propeller during the intercept. The Pentagon said that the de-classified video, which is about 40 seconds long, has been edited by the US military for length but shows events in sequential order. Meanwhile, Russia denied the accusations levelled by the US that its jets acted recklessly. Moscow said that the drone crashed after making "sharp manoeuvres," having "provocatively" flown close to Russian air space near Crimea. A ministry statement had said that Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu told his US counterpart that the American drone flights near Crimea's coast "were provocative in nature" and could lead to "an escalation in the Black Sea zone." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia claims it scrambled fighter jets after intercepting two British warplanes near border

Pakistan's foreign ministry summoned the United States embassy's deputy chief of mission, on Monday, over a statement that was made last week during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden's meeting.

The statement called for Pakistan to ensure that its territory was not used as a base for militant attacks. It was released after the leaders of the two countries engaged in a dialogue at the White House on Friday.

Pakistan criticised it calling it contrary to the diplomatic norms.

"It was stressed that the United States should refrain from issuing statements that may be construed as an encouragement of India's baseless and politically motivated narrative against Pakistan," Pakistan's foreign office said in a statement.

"It was also emphasized that counter-terrorism co-operation between Pakistan and the U.S. had been progressing well and that an enabling environment, centred around trust and understanding, was imperative to further solidifying Pakistan-U.S. ties."

<h2>Pakistan needs to do more to counter terrorist groups, says Miller</h2>

US State Department spokesperson Matt Miller in a daily news briefing told reporters that Pakistan had taken significant steps to counter terrorist groups, however, Washington advocated for more to be done.

"At the same time, however, we have also been consistent on the importance of Pakistan continuing to take steps to permanently dismantle all terrorist groups, including Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammad, and their various front organizations and we will raise the issue regularly with Pakistani officials," he said.

<h2>Imran Khan mocks Pakistan government over Modi-Biden statement&nbsp;</h2>

Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan mocked retired Pakistani army general Qamar Javed Bajwa, questioning the effectiveness of his "countless trips" to the United States while referring to a joint statement from the United States and India where Pakistan was strongly condemned for cross-border terrorism and the use of terrorist proxies.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-and-president-biden-agree-to-take-concerted-action-against-cross-border-terrorism-607544">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-and-president-biden-agree-to-take-concerted-action-against-cross-border-terrorism-607544">‘We must overcome forces exporting terror,’ PM Modi’s veiled attack on Pakistan in US Congress</a>

This comes after the White House released a US-India joint statement with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden calling upon Pakistan to take immediate action "to ensure that no territory under its control is used for launching terrorist attacks".

In a tweet Friday afternoon, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leader wrote, "Gen Bajwa along with his PDM cronies claimed that I had isolated Pakistan internationally."&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Gen Bajwa along with his PDM cronies claimed that I had isolated Pakistan internationally. 
 
The question we want to ask him and PDM is that after a year in government and countless trips of Pakistan's FM to the US, the joint India/US statement reduces Pakistan to a promoter of… <a href="https://t.co/2qyRqnHp5J">pic.twitter.com/2qyRqnHp5J</a>
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1672182020829757440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"The question we want to ask him and PDM is that after a year in government and countless trips of Pakistan's FM to the US, the joint India/US statement reduces Pakistan to a promoter of cross-border terrorism in India and nothing more," Khan added in his tweet.&nbsp;

<h2>Modi-Biden statement</h2>

The United States and India in a joint statement after the meeting between PM Modi and Biden said the leaders stand together "to counter global terrorism and unequivocally condemn terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations."

President Biden and Prime Minister Modi reiterated the call for concerted action against all UN-listed terrorist groups including Al-Qa’ida, ISIS/Daesh, Lashkar e-Tayyiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), and Hizb-ul-Mujhahideen. &nbsp;

"They strongly condemned cross-border terrorism, the use of terrorist proxies and called on Pakistan to take immediate action to ensure that no territory under its control is used for launching terrorist attacks. They called for the perpetrators of the 26/11 Mumbai and Pathankot attacks to be brought to justice. They noted with concern the increasing global use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), drones and information and communication technologies for terrorist purposes and reaffirmed the importance of working together to combat such misuse," the statement added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pakistan's foreign ministry summoned the United States embassy's deputy chief of mission, on Monday, over a statement that was made last week during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden's meeting.

Pakistan's foreign ministry summoned the United States embassy's deputy chief of mission, on Monday, over a statement that was made last week during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden's meeting. The statement called for Pakistan to ensure that its territory was not used as a base for militant attacks. It was released after the leaders of the two countries engaged in a dialogue at the White House on Friday. Pakistan criticised it calling it contrary to the diplomatic norms. "It was stressed that the United States should refrain from issuing statements that may be construed as an encouragement of India's baseless and politically motivated narrative against Pakistan," Pakistan's foreign office said in a statement. "It was also emphasized that counter-terrorism co-operation between Pakistan and the U.S. had been progressing well and that an enabling environment, centred around trust and understanding, was imperative to further solidifying Pakistan-U.S. ties." Pakistan needs to do more to counter terrorist groups, says Miller US State Department spokesperson Matt Miller in a daily news briefing told reporters that Pakistan had taken significant steps to counter terrorist groups, however, Washington advocated for more to be done. "At the same time, however, we have also been consistent on the importance of Pakistan continuing to take steps to permanently dismantle all terrorist groups, including Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammad, and their various front organizations and we will raise the issue regularly with Pakistani officials," he said. Imran Khan mocks Pakistan government over Modi-Biden statement Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan mocked retired Pakistani army general Qamar Javed Bajwa, questioning the effectiveness of his "countless trips" to the United States while referring to a joint statement from the United States and India where Pakistan was strongly condemned for cross-border terrorism and the use of terrorist proxies. Also read: ‘We must overcome forces exporting terror,’ PM Modi’s veiled attack on Pakistan in US Congress This comes after the White House released a US-India joint statement with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden calling upon Pakistan to take immediate action "to ensure that no territory under its control is used for launching terrorist attacks". In a tweet Friday afternoon, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leader wrote, "Gen Bajwa along with his PDM cronies claimed that I had isolated Pakistan internationally." Gen Bajwa along with his PDM cronies claimed that I had isolated Pakistan internationally. The question we want to ask him and PDM is that after a year in government and countless trips of Pakistan's FM to the US, the joint India/US statement reduces Pakistan to a promoter of… pic.twitter.com/2qyRqnHp5J — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) June 23, 2023 × "The question we want to ask him and PDM is that after a year in government and countless trips of Pakistan's FM to the US, the joint India/US statement reduces Pakistan to a promoter of cross-border terrorism in India and nothing more," Khan added in his tweet. Modi-Biden statement The United States and India in a joint statement after the meeting between PM Modi and Biden said the leaders stand together "to counter global terrorism and unequivocally condemn terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations." President Biden and Prime Minister Modi reiterated the call for concerted action against all UN-listed terrorist groups including Al-Qa’ida, ISIS/Daesh, Lashkar e-Tayyiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), and Hizb-ul-Mujhahideen. "They strongly condemned cross-border terrorism, the use of terrorist proxies and called on Pakistan to take immediate action to ensure that no territory under its control is used for launching terrorist attacks. They called for the perpetrators of the 26/11 Mumbai and Pathankot attacks to be brought to justice. They noted with concern the increasing global use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), drones and information and communication technologies for terrorist purposes and reaffirmed the importance of working together to combat such misuse," the statement added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan's foreign ministry summons US embassy's deputy mission chief over US-India statement

The White House on Monday released a statement saying that the US diplomats spoke to their Russian counterparts and discussed the security concerns involved during the revolt by the mercenary group Wagner.

The mutiny by Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin prompted this rare contact between Russia and the United States. The revolt had briefly taken control of a major city and had also threatened to attack Moscow. The turmoil ignited fears in Washington that nuclear-armed Russia could plunge into chaos.

"Instability in Russia is something that, you know, we take seriously and we certainly had lots of questions over the course of the weekend," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said when asked about fears over turmoil in nuclear-armed Russia.

"We did have and were able to have in real-time -- through diplomatic channels -- conversations with Russian officials about our concerns," he said.

Kirby further stated that United States officials continue to monitor Moscow's nuclear posture "very closely" during the invasion by Russian troops of pro-Western Ukraine.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-putin-begins-address-to-russians-thanks-citizens-for-patriotism-during-wagner-revolt-609015">Putin says Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus' in his address to Russians</a>

So far there is "no indication" that Russian President Vladimir Putin is moving in the "direction" of using nuclear weapons or "anything that will cause us to change our own deterrent posture," Kirby said.

<h2>West 'had nothing to do' with Russia's Wagner revolt, says Biden</h2>

United States President Joe Biden, on Monday (June 26), said that Russian President Vladimir Putin has “no excuse” to blame the Wagner group’s aborted march on Washington and that the West had “had nothing to do” with it. This comes as Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reportedly said that the country’s intelligence services are in the midst of investigating if Western spy agencies played a role in the Wagner mutiny.

Addressing a press conference, on Monday, the US president spoke about how when the revolt began he spoke to his key allies about the situation which was unfolding in Russia at the time. “I also convened our key allies on a Zoom call,” said Biden. He added, “They agreed that we had to make sure we gave Putin no excuse...to blame this on the West and to blame this on NATO.”&nbsp;

The US president also said that the turmoil was “part of the struggle within the Russian system.” This comes after mercenary group Wagner’s chief Yevgeny Prigozhin declared an armed rebellion in Russia with Putin saying that he is determined to quash the said revolt, which claimed to have seized control of the southern Russian city of Rostov-on-Don, on Saturday.&nbsp;

In a brief statement, the White House, on Saturday said that Biden held a call with French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and the United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to discuss the “situation in Russia” and “affirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine".

Furthermore, the US president also said that it’s “too early” to draw any definitive conclusions on “where this is going.” He added, “We’re going to keep assessing the fallout of this weekend’s events and the implications for Russia and Ukraine.”&nbsp;

However, Biden also stressed that his key Western allies are in touch with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and they will “continue to support Ukraine’s defence and sovereignty and its territorial integrity.” The US president also said that he will be calling key allies again Monday without mentioning who would be a part of this meeting.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The White House on Monday released a statement saying that the US diplomats spoke to their Russian counterparts and discussed the security concerns involved during the revolt by the mercenary group Wagner.

The White House on Monday released a statement saying that the US diplomats spoke to their Russian counterparts and discussed the security concerns involved during the revolt by the mercenary group Wagner. The mutiny by Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin prompted this rare contact between Russia and the United States. The revolt had briefly taken control of a major city and had also threatened to attack Moscow. The turmoil ignited fears in Washington that nuclear-armed Russia could plunge into chaos. "Instability in Russia is something that, you know, we take seriously and we certainly had lots of questions over the course of the weekend," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said when asked about fears over turmoil in nuclear-armed Russia. "We did have and were able to have in real-time -- through diplomatic channels -- conversations with Russian officials about our concerns," he said. Kirby further stated that United States officials continue to monitor Moscow's nuclear posture "very closely" during the invasion by Russian troops of pro-Western Ukraine. Also read: Putin says Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus' in his address to Russians So far there is "no indication" that Russian President Vladimir Putin is moving in the "direction" of using nuclear weapons or "anything that will cause us to change our own deterrent posture," Kirby said. West 'had nothing to do' with Russia's Wagner revolt, says Biden United States President Joe Biden, on Monday (June 26), said that Russian President Vladimir Putin has “no excuse” to blame the Wagner group’s aborted march on Washington and that the West had “had nothing to do” with it. This comes as Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reportedly said that the country’s intelligence services are in the midst of investigating if Western spy agencies played a role in the Wagner mutiny. Addressing a press conference, on Monday, the US president spoke about how when the revolt began he spoke to his key allies about the situation which was unfolding in Russia at the time. “I also convened our key allies on a Zoom call,” said Biden. He added, “They agreed that we had to make sure we gave Putin no excuse...to blame this on the West and to blame this on NATO.” The US president also said that the turmoil was “part of the struggle within the Russian system.” This comes after mercenary group Wagner’s chief Yevgeny Prigozhin declared an armed rebellion in Russia with Putin saying that he is determined to quash the said revolt, which claimed to have seized control of the southern Russian city of Rostov-on-Don, on Saturday. In a brief statement, the White House, on Saturday said that Biden held a call with French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and the United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to discuss the “situation in Russia” and “affirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine". Furthermore, the US president also said that it’s “too early” to draw any definitive conclusions on “where this is going.” He added, “We’re going to keep assessing the fallout of this weekend’s events and the implications for Russia and Ukraine.” However, Biden also stressed that his key Western allies are in touch with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and they will “continue to support Ukraine’s defence and sovereignty and its territorial integrity.” The US president also said that he will be calling key allies again Monday without mentioning who would be a part of this meeting. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US spoke to Russian counterparts to discuss security concerns during Wagner revolt, says White House

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