Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and his US counterpart Antony Blinken met on Friday in Geneva in order to discuss the situation in Ukraine and progress on Russia's security proposals.

Russia hints at another round of talks after a high-stakes meet with no winners

The US Secy of State Antony Blinken and the Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov are presently holding high level talks in Geneva. The leaders earlier made their opening remarks in a bid to try and see if the escalating tensions between the two nations can be defused.

US Secy of State Antony Blinken, Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov hold talks in Geneva

The much-awaited meeting between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is underway in Geneva over Ukraine border crisis.

Lavrov and Blinken meet underway in Geneva, leaders discuss Ukraine border crisis

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to choose the "peaceful path" on Ukraine as he visited Kyiv on Wednesday.

US State Secy Antony Blinken in Ukraine, calls on Putin to choose 'peaceful path'

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is in Berlin for crisis talks on Ukraine. During a major speech he said that the US and its allies are seeking a diplomatic path to de-escalate tensions caused by Russia across Ukraine border.

Seeking diplomatic path to de-escalate tensions caused by Russia across Ukraine border, says Blinken

Russia is stepping up its deployments around Ukraine. Moscow has now moved troops to Belarus. The US says Russian troops could now be deployed permanently and with nuclear weapons. Will the West go to war with Russia over Ukraine? Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Ukraine on target of Russian Nukes?

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held crisis talks on Ukraine with European allies in Berlin ahead of talks with Russia aimed at preventing war.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken holds talks with EU allies in Berlin over Ukraine

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken addresses joint presser with Ukraine Foreign Minister as he visited Kyiv to show support before crunch talks with Russia later this week.

Committed to protect Ukraine's sovereignty, says Antony Blinken

US secretary of state Antony Blinken has arrived in Kyiv today, he held talks with Ukrainian leaders. The high-stakes meeting comes as the United States tries to defuse the crisis by dissuading Russia from attacking Ukraine; the US is worried that Russia may launch an attack against Ukraine.

US seeks 'Diplomatic Path' with Russia amid Ukraine invasion fears

Russia is thinning out its embassy in Ukraine. UK has sent arms to Ukraine; Canada has sent special forces. Russia is conducting military drills. US is sending Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Kyiv. Is a war inevitable? Listen in to Palki Sharma

Gravitas: Blinken to travel to Ukraine, as Russia conducts military drills

US secretary of state Antony Blinken has arrived in Kyiv today, he will be holding talks with Ukrainian leaders. The high-stakes meeting comes as the United States tries to defuse the crisis by dissuading Russia from attacking Ukraine; the US is worried that Russia may launch an attack against Ukraine.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken holds meeting with Ukrainian leaders amid tensions with Russia

Russia, Ukraine conflict escalates: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visits Kyiv amid tensions

Russia responded angrily to a comment by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken that Kazakhstan might have a hard time getting rid of Russian troops.

Russia angrily responds to Blinken's recent comments over Kazakhstan

Russia has lambasted US Secretary of State Antony Blinken saying he "ridiculed a totally legitimate response" of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO), a military alliance led by Russia.

Russia's foreign ministry said in a statement, "US Secretary of State Antony Blinken tried to make a funny joke today about the tragic events in Kazakhstan. A boorish attempt, but then again not his first one."&nbsp;

It comes after Blinken had said that, "One lesson of recent history is that once Russians are in your house, it's sometimes very difficult to get them to leave."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-kazakhstan-unrest-turns-deadly-dozens-of-protesters-killed-in-unprecedented-violence-442657" hreflang="en">In Pics: Kazakhstan unrest turns deadly, 'dozens' of protesters killed in unprecedented violence</a>

Meanwhile, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said that the deployment of the Russia-led military bloc known as the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) in Nur-Sultan had allowed Kazakh law enforcement agencies to be redeployed to intervene in Almaty.

Dozens of people have died, and public buildings across Kazakhstan have been ransacked and torched over the past week in the worst violence experienced in the Central Asian nation, a major oil and uranium producer since it became independent in the early 1990s as the Soviet Union collapsed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-demand-that-we-never-become-nato-member-illegitimate-ukraine-foreign-minister-to-wion-443079" hreflang="en">Russian demand that we never become NATO member illegitimate: Ukraine foreign minister to WION</a>

The demonstrations began as a response to a fuel price hike but swelled into a broad movement against Tokayev's Russian-backed government and 81-year-old former President Nursultan Nazarbayev, whose family is widely believed to have retained influence in Nur-Sultan, the purpose-built capital that bears his name.

The former head of Kazakhstan’s counterintelligence and anti-terror agency has been arrested on charges of attempted government overthrow in the wake of violent protests that the president has blamed on foreign-backed terrorists.

The arrest of Karim Masimov was announced Saturday by the National Security Committee, which Kasimov headed until he was removed this week by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

Authorities say security forces killed 26 demonstrators in this week’s unrest and that 18 law-enforcement officers died. More than 4,400 people have been arrested, the Interior Ministry said Saturday.

The uprising has prompted a military intervention by Moscow at a time of high tension in East-West relations as Russia and the United States gear up for talks next week on the Ukraine crisis.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia has lambasted US Secretary of State Antony Blinken saying he "ridiculed a totally legitimate response" of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO), a military alliance led by Russia.

Russia has lambasted US Secretary of State Antony Blinken saying he "ridiculed a totally legitimate response" of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO), a military alliance led by Russia. Russia's foreign ministry said in a statement, "US Secretary of State Antony Blinken tried to make a funny joke today about the tragic events in Kazakhstan. A boorish attempt, but then again not his first one." It comes after Blinken had said that, "One lesson of recent history is that once Russians are in your house, it's sometimes very difficult to get them to leave." In Pics: Kazakhstan unrest turns deadly, 'dozens' of protesters killed in unprecedented violence Meanwhile, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said that the deployment of the Russia-led military bloc known as the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) in Nur-Sultan had allowed Kazakh law enforcement agencies to be redeployed to intervene in Almaty. Dozens of people have died, and public buildings across Kazakhstan have been ransacked and torched over the past week in the worst violence experienced in the Central Asian nation, a major oil and uranium producer since it became independent in the early 1990s as the Soviet Union collapsed. Also read | Russian demand that we never become NATO member illegitimate: Ukraine foreign minister to WION The demonstrations began as a response to a fuel price hike but swelled into a broad movement against Tokayev's Russian-backed government and 81-year-old former President Nursultan Nazarbayev, whose family is widely believed to have retained influence in Nur-Sultan, the purpose-built capital that bears his name. The former head of Kazakhstan’s counterintelligence and anti-terror agency has been arrested on charges of attempted government overthrow in the wake of violent protests that the president has blamed on foreign-backed terrorists. The arrest of Karim Masimov was announced Saturday by the National Security Committee, which Kasimov headed until he was removed this week by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Authorities say security forces killed 26 demonstrators in this week’s unrest and that 18 law-enforcement officers died. More than 4,400 people have been arrested, the Interior Ministry said Saturday. The uprising has prompted a military intervention by Moscow at a time of high tension in East-West relations as Russia and the United States gear up for talks next week on the Ukraine crisis. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia lambasts Blinken for ridiculing 'tragic events' in Kazakhstan

Western leaders are stepping up warnings to Moscow ahead of security talks with Russia. Top US diplomat Antony Blinken has said that the upcoming talks will not succeed so long as there is a gun to Ukraine's head.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warns Russia ahead of talks over Ukraine

Western leaders are stepping up pressure on Moscow ahead of the security talks with Russia. The top American diplomat Antony Blinken has said that the upcoming dialogue will not succeed so long as a gun is pointed towards Ukraine's head.

Antony Blinken: No progress with a gun to Ukraine's head

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken cut short a trip to Southeast Asia on Wednesday after a member of his delegation contracted the COVID-19.

Antony Blinken cuts short Asia trip due to COVID-19 case among travelling US delegation group

Amid ongoing tensions with China, US secretary of state Antony Blinken embarks on a Southeast Asia trip. It is his first trip since he took over the office.

US secretary of state Antony Blinken delivers remarks on Indo-Pacific

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has urged China to cease “aggressive actions” in the Indo-Pacific, speaking during a visit to the region.

Antony Blinken urges China to stop 'aggressive actions' in Indo-Pacific

China's foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin has accused the United States of ''inciting violence'' and ''instigating confrontation.''

It comes after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken asked Beijing to stop ''aggressive actions'' in the Indo-Pacific region.

During his first visit to Indonesia as Secretary of State, Blinken on Tuesday touted a US strategy to deepen its Asian treaty alliances.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stop-aggressive-actions-in-the-indo-pacific-us-warns-china-436794">Also read |&nbsp;Stop 'aggressive actions' in the Indo-Pacific: US warns China</a>

He offered to boost defence and intelligence work with partners in an Indo-Pacific region increasingly concerned over China's behaviour.

Blinken said Washington would work with allies and partners to "defend the rules-based order" and countries should have the right to "choose their own path".

"That's why there is so much concern from Northeast Asia to Southeast Asia and from the Mekong River to the Pacific Islands&nbsp;about Beijing's aggressive actions.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-biden-president-putin-to-meet-president-xi-via-video-link-436600" hreflang="en">After Biden, President Putin to meet President Xi via video link</a>

"Claiming open seas as their own. Distorting open markets through subsidies to its state-run companies. Denying the exports or revoking deals for countries whose policies it does not agree with."&nbsp;

"Countries across the region want this behaviour to change -- we do too," he said.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea as its own, despite some overlapping claims with other coastal states and a ruling by an international tribunal that its vast claim had no legal basis.&nbsp;

Beijing has rejected the US stance as interference from an outside power that could threaten Asia's stability.

Tensions between the United States and China have risen over Taiwan, which China claims as its own and has pledged to recapture one day, by force if necessary.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

China's foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin has accused the United States of ''inciting violence'' and ''instigating confrontation.'' It comes after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken asked Beijing to stop ''aggressive actions'' in the Indo-Pacific region.

China's foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin has accused the United States of ''inciting violence'' and ''instigating confrontation.'' It comes after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken asked Beijing to stop ''aggressive actions'' in the Indo-Pacific region. During his first visit to Indonesia as Secretary of State, Blinken on Tuesday touted a US strategy to deepen its Asian treaty alliances. Also read | Stop 'aggressive actions' in the Indo-Pacific: US warns China He offered to boost defence and intelligence work with partners in an Indo-Pacific region increasingly concerned over China's behaviour. Blinken said Washington would work with allies and partners to "defend the rules-based order" and countries should have the right to "choose their own path". "That's why there is so much concern from Northeast Asia to Southeast Asia and from the Mekong River to the Pacific Islands about Beijing's aggressive actions. Also read | After Biden, President Putin to meet President Xi via video link "Claiming open seas as their own. Distorting open markets through subsidies to its state-run companies. Denying the exports or revoking deals for countries whose policies it does not agree with." "Countries across the region want this behaviour to change -- we do too," he said. China claims almost the entire South China Sea as its own, despite some overlapping claims with other coastal states and a ruling by an international tribunal that its vast claim had no legal basis. Beijing has rejected the US stance as interference from an outside power that could threaten Asia's stability. Tensions between the United States and China have risen over Taiwan, which China claims as its own and has pledged to recapture one day, by force if necessary. (With inputs from agencies)

China accuses US of 'inciting violence' and 'instigating confrontation'

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will head to Southeast Asia next week on a tour designed to show the region's importance for the US strategy of confronting China, and to further address the "worsening" crisis in military-ruled&nbsp;Myanmar.

Blinken will start off his round-the-world journey with a meeting with his G7 colleagues Friday through Sunday in Liverpool, England, his spokesman Ned Price said in a statement Wednesday.

Among other issues Blinken will discuss "the buildup of Russian forces on Ukraine's border" -- a red hot crisis that was addressed by President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in their virtual summit on Tuesday.

Blinken will then head to Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand to stress the top priority of US foreign policy, which is to challenge an ever more assertive China.

The United States accuses China of regional intimidation and pressure, especially in the South China Sea.

"The secretary's meetings will focus on strengthening the regional security infrastructure in response to PRC bullying in the South China Sea," Daniel Kritenbrink, assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs, told reporters, using the acronym for the People's Republic of China.

Kritenbrink added that Blinken will discuss "unilateral PRC actions in the Mekong River," as well as "freedom of navigation and freedom of overflight."

The Chinese government has come under criticism for building dams upstream on the Mekong River, which affects water levels and fisheries in neighboring countries.

"We oppose any actions by the People's Republic of China or any other actor designed to destabilize the region," Kritenbrink said.

In Jakarta, Blinken will give a speech "on the significance of the Indo-Pacific region" while in Kuala Lumpur he will address the need for the region to remain "free and open," Price said.

"In each country the secretary will reiterate to his counterparts the importance of holding the Burmese military regime to account for its crimes and seeking to restore&nbsp;Burma's path to democracy," Kritenbrink said, using a former name for&nbsp;Myanmar.

The United States has repeatedly denounced the February 1 military coup that ousted the civilian government in&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;and the jailing of civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Blinken will stop in Hawaii December 17 on his way home.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will head to Southeast Asia next week on a tour designed to show the region's importance for the US strategy of confronting China, and to further address the "worsening" crisis in military-ruled Myanmar.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will head to Southeast Asia next week on a tour designed to show the region's importance for the US strategy of confronting China, and to further address the "worsening" crisis in military-ruled Myanmar. Blinken will start off his round-the-world journey with a meeting with his G7 colleagues Friday through Sunday in Liverpool, England, his spokesman Ned Price said in a statement Wednesday. Among other issues Blinken will discuss "the buildup of Russian forces on Ukraine's border" -- a red hot crisis that was addressed by President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in their virtual summit on Tuesday. Blinken will then head to Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand to stress the top priority of US foreign policy, which is to challenge an ever more assertive China. The United States accuses China of regional intimidation and pressure, especially in the South China Sea. "The secretary's meetings will focus on strengthening the regional security infrastructure in response to PRC bullying in the South China Sea," Daniel Kritenbrink, assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs, told reporters, using the acronym for the People's Republic of China. Kritenbrink added that Blinken will discuss "unilateral PRC actions in the Mekong River," as well as "freedom of navigation and freedom of overflight." The Chinese government has come under criticism for building dams upstream on the Mekong River, which affects water levels and fisheries in neighboring countries. "We oppose any actions by the People's Republic of China or any other actor designed to destabilize the region," Kritenbrink said. In Jakarta, Blinken will give a speech "on the significance of the Indo-Pacific region" while in Kuala Lumpur he will address the need for the region to remain "free and open," Price said. "In each country the secretary will reiterate to his counterparts the importance of holding the Burmese military regime to account for its crimes and seeking to restore Burma's path to democracy," Kritenbrink said, using a former name for Myanmar. The United States has repeatedly denounced the February 1 military coup that ousted the civilian government in Myanmar and the jailing of civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Blinken will stop in Hawaii December 17 on his way home.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken headed for Southeast Asia with China, Myanmar on agenda

The United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the untimely demise of India's first Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat is a 'great loss' for&nbsp;both the nations - the US and India.&nbsp;

Taking to his Twitter, Blinken informed that he spoke to the Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar to express grief and condolences over the tragic accident.&nbsp;

"Today I spoke with Indian Minister of External Affairs @DrSJaishankar to express my condolences for the tragic death of Gen. Bipin Rawat, his wife, and colleagues. Gen. Rawat was a strong leader and advocate for India, and his passing is a great loss for both of our nations," tweeted Blinken.&nbsp;

Obituary |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gen-bipin-rawat-biography-indias-first-chief-of-defence-staff-led-a-life-dedicated-to-the-nation-435166">Gen Bipin Rawat biography: India's first Chief of Defence Staff led a life dedicated to the nation</a>

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Today I spoke with Indian Minister of External Affairs <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> to express my condolences for the tragic death of Gen. Bipin Rawat, his wife, and colleagues. Gen. Rawat was a strong leader and advocate for India, and his passing is a great loss for both of our nations.
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken/status/1469017077260369929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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CDS General Bipin Rawat, his wife Madhulika Rawat and other 11 Armed Forces personnel lost their lives in a helicopter crash on Wednesday (December 8).&nbsp;

Indian Air Force helicopter Mi-17V5, carrying defence chief crashed in southern India - near the town of Coonoor in Tamil Nadu. The helicopter was on its way from Sulur in Coimbatore to the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington.&nbsp;

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Gen Bipin Rawat was India's first chief of defence staff. It is a position that the Indian government established in 2019. He was credited with reducing insurgency on India's northeastern frontier.&nbsp;

CDS Rawat was commissioned into the Indian Army in December 1978. He previously served as Chief of the Army Staff from January 2017 to December 2019.&nbsp;

In four decades of service, General Rawat was decorated with the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM), Uttam Yudh Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), Vishisht Seva Medal, Yudh Seva Medal, and Sena Medal.

The United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the untimely demise of India's first Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat is a 'great loss' for both the nations - the US and India.

The United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the untimely demise of India's first Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat is a 'great loss' for both the nations - the US and India. Taking to his Twitter, Blinken informed that he spoke to the Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar to express grief and condolences over the tragic accident. "Today I spoke with Indian Minister of External Affairs @DrSJaishankar to express my condolences for the tragic death of Gen. Bipin Rawat, his wife, and colleagues. Gen. Rawat was a strong leader and advocate for India, and his passing is a great loss for both of our nations," tweeted Blinken. Obituary | Gen Bipin Rawat biography: India's first Chief of Defence Staff led a life dedicated to the nation Today I spoke with Indian Minister of External Affairs @DrSJaishankar to express my condolences for the tragic death of Gen. Bipin Rawat, his wife, and colleagues. Gen. Rawat was a strong leader and advocate for India, and his passing is a great loss for both of our nations. — Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) December 9, 2021 × CDS General Bipin Rawat, his wife Madhulika Rawat and other 11 Armed Forces personnel lost their lives in a helicopter crash on Wednesday (December 8). Indian Air Force helicopter Mi-17V5, carrying defence chief crashed in southern India - near the town of Coonoor in Tamil Nadu. The helicopter was on its way from Sulur in Coimbatore to the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington. × Gen Bipin Rawat was India's first chief of defence staff. It is a position that the Indian government established in 2019. He was credited with reducing insurgency on India's northeastern frontier. CDS Rawat was commissioned into the Indian Army in December 1978. He previously served as Chief of the Army Staff from January 2017 to December 2019. In four decades of service, General Rawat was decorated with the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM), Uttam Yudh Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), Vishisht Seva Medal, Yudh Seva Medal, and Sena Medal.

CDS Gen Bipin Rawat's demise 'great loss' for both nations: US State Secy Antony Blinken speaks to Jaishankar

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has warned China against its increasing incursions in Taiwan saying that it should be prepared of 'terrible consequences' if it precipitates a crisis in Taipei.

According to him, the United States is ''resolutely committed'' to protect Taiwan, and if China decides to invade Taiwan ''that would be a potentially disastrous decision.''

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“I hope that China’s leaders think very carefully about this and about not precipitating a crisis that would have I think terrible consequences for lots of people and one that’s in no one’s interest, starting with China," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-meltdown-over-wions-taiwan-report-432836">Also read |&nbsp;China's meltdown over WION's Taiwan report</a>

China and the United States are tussling over President Joe Biden’s upcoming democracy summit, in which Taiwan is invited.

Chinese Communist Party sees as a challenge to its authoritarian ways as it claims the self-governing island as part of its territory and objects to it having any contact on its own with foreign governments.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-russia-aware-of-us-military-might-will-defend-taiwan-if-beijing-attacks-biden-422795">Also read |&nbsp;China, Russia aware of US’ military might, will defend Taiwan if Beijing attacks: Biden</a>

China's President Xi Jinping chided Taiwan's efforts to bolster support among US politicians and compared encouraging independence to "playing with fire".

"If 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces provoke us, coerce us or even cross the red line, we will have no choice but to take decisive measures," said Xi, in a not-so-veiled threat of conflict.

Taiwan's defense minister has said tensions with China are at their worst in more than 40 years adding that China will be capable of mounting a "full-scale" invasion by 2025.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has warned China against its increasing incursions in Taiwan saying that it should be prepared of 'terrible consequences' if it precipitates a crisis in Taipei.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has warned China against its increasing incursions in Taiwan saying that it should be prepared of 'terrible consequences' if it precipitates a crisis in Taipei. According to him, the United States is ''resolutely committed'' to protect Taiwan, and if China decides to invade Taiwan ''that would be a potentially disastrous decision.'' “I hope that China’s leaders think very carefully about this and about not precipitating a crisis that would have I think terrible consequences for lots of people and one that’s in no one’s interest, starting with China," he added. Also read | China's meltdown over WION's Taiwan report China and the United States are tussling over President Joe Biden’s upcoming democracy summit, in which Taiwan is invited. Chinese Communist Party sees as a challenge to its authoritarian ways as it claims the self-governing island as part of its territory and objects to it having any contact on its own with foreign governments. Also read | China, Russia aware of US’ military might, will defend Taiwan if Beijing attacks: Biden China's President Xi Jinping chided Taiwan's efforts to bolster support among US politicians and compared encouraging independence to "playing with fire". "If 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces provoke us, coerce us or even cross the red line, we will have no choice but to take decisive measures," said Xi, in a not-so-veiled threat of conflict. Taiwan's defense minister has said tensions with China are at their worst in more than 40 years adding that China will be capable of mounting a "full-scale" invasion by 2025. (With inputs from agencies)

China should be prepared of 'terrible consequences' if it precipitates crisis in Taiwan, says Blinken

Top diplomats from the US and Russia met in Stockholm amid escalating tensions at the Ukraine border. Washington has warned of harsh sanctions if Russia invades Ukraine. Will they be enough to deter Putin's expansionist dream? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Russian troops ready to invade Ukraine?

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Thursday to warn him of the consequences Russia would suffer if it invaded Ukraine and to urge him to seek a diplomatic exit from the crisis.

Warnings, demands and disagreement pervades meeting of Blinken and Lavrov in Stockholm

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken holds a news conference following his meeting with Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Stockholm, Sweden, amid escalating East-West tensions over Ukraine.

US State Secy Antony Blinken briefs the press after meeting Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met in Stockholm, Sweden, amid escalating East-West tensions over Ukraine.

Blinken and Lavrov hold in-person meet in Stockholm over Russia's intentions in Ukraine

The US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken addresses the meeting of NATO foreign ministers in Latvia. Blinken said that NATO remains fully committed to fighting against terrorism worldwide and the US will use all its capability to aid in their fight.

NATO remains fully committed to fighting against terrorism worldwide, says Blinken

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is in Latvia for talks with the country’s leaders and a NATO meeting as the alliance expresses concern about Russia’s military buildup along the border with Ukraine.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Latvia for NATO meeting on Russia military build-up

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken is greatly concerned about Ethiopia's military escalation and called for urgent negotiations over the crisis, a US&nbsp;State Department spokesperson said.

The comments came hours after Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed appeared on the frontline with the national army.

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"Secretary Blinken expressed grave concern about worrying signs of military escalation in Ethiopia and emphasised the need to urgently move to negotiations," Ned Price said in a statement late on Friday.

Price released the statement after a phone call between Kenya's President Uhuru Kenyatta and Blinken.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopia-appreciates-indias-stance-on-tigray-conflict-at-unsc-404485">Also read |&nbsp;Ethiopia appreciates India's stance on Tigray conflict at UNSC</a>

On Friday, Ethiopia's state-affiliated Fana Broadcasting reported that Abiy was on the frontline with the army fighting rebellious Tigrayan forces in the northeastern Afar region. Abiy posted the same video on his Twitter account.

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የምንፈልገው ወይ ኢትዮጵያዊ መሆን ወይም ኢትዮጵያ መሆን ነው:: <a href="https://t.co/4OVCiXk5t2">pic.twitter.com/4OVCiXk5t2</a>
— Abiy Ahmed Ali 🇪🇹 (@AbiyAhmedAli) <a href="https://twitter.com/AbiyAhmedAli/status/1464210290900410390?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Abiy's government has been fighting Tigrayan forces for more than a year, in a conflict that has killed thousands and displaced millions in Africa's second-most populous nation.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is greatly concerned about Ethiopia's military escalation and called for urgent negotiations over the crisis, a US State Department spokesperson said.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is greatly concerned about Ethiopia's military escalation and called for urgent negotiations over the crisis, a US State Department spokesperson said. The comments came hours after Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed appeared on the frontline with the national army. "Secretary Blinken expressed grave concern about worrying signs of military escalation in Ethiopia and emphasised the need to urgently move to negotiations," Ned Price said in a statement late on Friday. Price released the statement after a phone call between Kenya's President Uhuru Kenyatta and Blinken. Also read | Ethiopia appreciates India's stance on Tigray conflict at UNSC On Friday, Ethiopia's state-affiliated Fana Broadcasting reported that Abiy was on the frontline with the army fighting rebellious Tigrayan forces in the northeastern Afar region. Abiy posted the same video on his Twitter account. የምንፈልገው ወይ ኢትዮጵያዊ መሆን ወይም ኢትዮጵያ መሆን ነው:: pic.twitter.com/4OVCiXk5t2 — Abiy Ahmed Ali 🇪🇹 (@AbiyAhmedAli) November 26, 2021 × Abiy's government has been fighting Tigrayan forces for more than a year, in a conflict that has killed thousands and displaced millions in Africa's second-most populous nation.

Blinken calls for speedy negotiations over Ethiopia military escalation

The United States and NASA condemned Russia for launching a "dangerous and irresponsible" missile strike that blew up a Russian satellite and created a debris cloud that forced the crew of International Space Station (ISS) to take evasive action.

According to officials, Washington was not notified of the test, which was only the fourth ever to hit a spacecraft from the ground.

There is renewed concern over the growing space arms race, which covers everything from the development of satellites capable of shunting others out of orbit to laser weapons.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/debris-generating-event-reports-say-russia-may-have-carried-out-anti-satellite-weapons-test-429627">'Debris generating event': Reports say Russia may have carried out anti-satellite weapons test</a>

"The Russian Federation recklessly conducted a destructive test of a direct-ascent anti-satellite missile against one of its own satellites," said Secretary of State Anthony Blinken in a statement.

He added that over 1,500 trackable pieces of orbital debris were produced by the "dangerous and irresponsible test," which will likely result in hundreds of thousands of smaller pieces.

In strongly worded remarks, Blinken said the danger was far from over and debris would continue to pose risks to satellites and operations on the ISS. He said that the United States was discussing its response with partners.

The crew; four Americans, a German, and two Russians aboard the orbital outpost were awakened and told to close hatches, then take shelter in their return ships, the standard "safe haven" alarm procedure in case of an emergency that might force evacuation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/achieving-what-trump-couldnt-biden-celebrates-rare-win-with-us-infrastructure-bill-signing-429648">Achieving what Trump couldn't, Biden celebrates rare win with US infrastructure bill signing</a>

NASA reported that the crew made their way to the Dragon and Soyuz spacecraft around 2:00 am Eastern Time (0700 GMT) and remained there for about two hours.

Every 90 minutes, the research lab, orbiting around 250 miles above Earth, passes through or near the debris cluster. However, NASA specialists determined it was safe for the crew to return to the station's interior after the third pass.

"I am outraged by this irresponsible and destabilizing action," said NASA administrator Bill Nelson in a statement.

"With its long and storied history in human spaceflight, it is unthinkable that Russia would endanger not only the American and international partner astronauts on the ISS, but also their own cosmonauts" as well as Chinese "taikonauts" aboard China's space station, he said.

Also read&nbsp; |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-virtual-summit-biden-urges-for-guardrails-against-conflict-xi-calls-for-better-communication-429645">US-China virtual summit: Biden urges for 'guardrails' against conflict, Xi calls for better communication</a>

According to Seradata, a space industry analysis company, the missile was aimed at Cosmos 1408, a Soviet signals intelligence satellite launched in 1982 now defunct for decades.

ASATs, or anti-satellite weapons, are high-tech missiles possessed by a few nations.

Even before Russia, anti-satellite tests in space have been conducted by several countries. Back in 1959, when satellites were rare and new, the United States performed the first.

Further, a similar knockout demonstrated by China in 2007 led the United States to shoot down a satellite in 2008.

Watch |&nbsp;The United States slams Russia for 'irresponsible' act

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-united-states-slams-russia-for-irresponsible-act-429713/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As of 2019, India was the last nation to launch such a test, creating hundreds of pieces of "space junk", something which was harshly criticized by others, including the United States.

The United States and NASA condemned Russia for launching a "dangerous and irresponsible" missile strike that blew up a Russian satellite and created a debris cloud that forced the crew of International Space Station (ISS) to take evasive action.

The United States and NASA condemned Russia for launching a "dangerous and irresponsible" missile strike that blew up a Russian satellite and created a debris cloud that forced the crew of International Space Station (ISS) to take evasive action. According to officials, Washington was not notified of the test, which was only the fourth ever to hit a spacecraft from the ground. There is renewed concern over the growing space arms race, which covers everything from the development of satellites capable of shunting others out of orbit to laser weapons. Also read | 'Debris generating event': Reports say Russia may have carried out anti-satellite weapons test "The Russian Federation recklessly conducted a destructive test of a direct-ascent anti-satellite missile against one of its own satellites," said Secretary of State Anthony Blinken in a statement. He added that over 1,500 trackable pieces of orbital debris were produced by the "dangerous and irresponsible test," which will likely result in hundreds of thousands of smaller pieces. In strongly worded remarks, Blinken said the danger was far from over and debris would continue to pose risks to satellites and operations on the ISS. He said that the United States was discussing its response with partners. The crew; four Americans, a German, and two Russians aboard the orbital outpost were awakened and told to close hatches, then take shelter in their return ships, the standard "safe haven" alarm procedure in case of an emergency that might force evacuation. Also read | Achieving what Trump couldn't, Biden celebrates rare win with US infrastructure bill signing NASA reported that the crew made their way to the Dragon and Soyuz spacecraft around 2:00 am Eastern Time (0700 GMT) and remained there for about two hours. Every 90 minutes, the research lab, orbiting around 250 miles above Earth, passes through or near the debris cluster. However, NASA specialists determined it was safe for the crew to return to the station's interior after the third pass. "I am outraged by this irresponsible and destabilizing action," said NASA administrator Bill Nelson in a statement. "With its long and storied history in human spaceflight, it is unthinkable that Russia would endanger not only the American and international partner astronauts on the ISS, but also their own cosmonauts" as well as Chinese "taikonauts" aboard China's space station, he said. Also read | US-China virtual summit: Biden urges for 'guardrails' against conflict, Xi calls for better communication According to Seradata, a space industry analysis company, the missile was aimed at Cosmos 1408, a Soviet signals intelligence satellite launched in 1982 now defunct for decades. ASATs, or anti-satellite weapons, are high-tech missiles possessed by a few nations. Even before Russia, anti-satellite tests in space have been conducted by several countries. Back in 1959, when satellites were rare and new, the United States performed the first. Further, a similar knockout demonstrated by China in 2007 led the United States to shoot down a satellite in 2008. Watch | The United States slams Russia for 'irresponsible' act As of 2019, India was the last nation to launch such a test, creating hundreds of pieces of "space junk", something which was harshly criticized by others, including the United States.

Russia blasts own satellite, US slams it as missile test threatens International Space Station

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