Libya forces loyal to eastern-based commander Khalifa Haftar announced on Saturday a ceasefire on Sunday conditional on acceptance by their rivals. #Libya #LibyanArmy #WION

Libya: General Haftar's forces announces conditional ceasefire

At least 17 people were killed and more than 40 injured on after Syrian army airstrikes struck four cities in the country's northwestern region of Idlib, witnesses and a local civil defence centre said. #WION #Syria #AirStrikes

17 killed in Syria airstrikes ahead of proposed ceasefire

An officer of the army and a civilian were killed on Wednesday in an unprovoked ceasefire violation by Pakistani troops along the LoC in Rampur sector of Jammu and Kashmir

Army officer, civilian killed as Pakistan violates ceasefire along LoC

A Junior commissioned officer of the Indian army and a 23-year-old girl have been killed in Uri sector on Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmir after Pakistan violated ceasefire on Wednesday.

Sources in the police told WION that the officer was killed in the morning when Pakistan opened fire at the Indian positions. Indian forces retaliated immediately.&nbsp;

The Indian Army in a statement said that there was a heavy exchange of fire in the Uri sector after ceasefire violation by Pakistan.&nbsp;

”Pakistan fired by using small arms, mortars and artillery. Indian Army is retaliating befittingly, ” the statement read.&nbsp;

Sources added that while the army officer was killed in Silikote area, the girl - identified as Naseema - has died in Churunda village in Uri sector of Baramulla district in a separate ceasefire violation.

The exchange of fire was going on in the area when the last reports came in.&nbsp;

A Junior commissioned officer of the Indian army and a 23-year-old girl have been killed in Uri sector on Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmir after Pakistan violated ceasefire on Wednesday.

A Junior commissioned officer of the Indian army and a 23-year-old girl have been killed in Uri sector on Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmir after Pakistan violated ceasefire on Wednesday. Sources in the police told WION that the officer was killed in the morning when Pakistan opened fire at the Indian positions. Indian forces retaliated immediately. The Indian Army in a statement said that there was a heavy exchange of fire in the Uri sector after ceasefire violation by Pakistan. ”Pakistan fired by using small arms, mortars and artillery. Indian Army is retaliating befittingly, ” the statement read. Sources added that while the army officer was killed in Silikote area, the girl - identified as Naseema - has died in Churunda village in Uri sector of Baramulla district in a separate ceasefire violation. The exchange of fire was going on in the area when the last reports came in.

Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire; Army officer, civilian killed 

The countries full ceasefire to be implemented in eastern Ukraine.

Russia and Ukraine to implement a ceasefire

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-stands-united-in-resolving-israel-palestine-middle-east-conflict-262207">Israel</a>&nbsp;launched fresh strikes against Islamic Jihad targets in Gaza, the army said early Friday, weakening a ceasefire put in place after fighting this week killed 34 Palestinians in exchanges of fire.

The ceasefire began Thursday morning following two days of deadly violence in the Gaza Strip triggered by an Israeli strike on an Islamic Jihad commander.

Israel&nbsp;Defence Forces (IDF) told reporters that new overnight strikes were underway on Islamic Jihad, the second most powerful Palestinian militant group in Gaza after Hamas.

It came after five rockets were fired at&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;from Gaza -- also after the ceasefire came into effect -- with two of them intercepted by air defences, according to the army.

"The IDF views the violation of the ceasefire and rockets directed at&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;with great severity," the army said in a news release.

Israel's military was prepared to "continue operating as necessary against all attempts to harm&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;civilians", it said.

Two injured citizens were being treated in hospital in the southern part of the territory, according to the health ministry in Gaza.

The ceasefire brokered by Egyptian and UN officials, the usual mediators between Gaza and&nbsp;Israel, was agreed as the flare-up raised fears of a new all-out conflict.

During the day on Thursday normal life had resumed quietly in Israeli regions near the Gaza border, while in Gaza, citizens had also embraced the return of relative calm.

"We hope for peace, we don't want war," said Mahmoud Jarda, an inhabitant of the enclave.

Bomb shelters

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/islamic-jihad-israel-halt-hostilities-in-gaza-34-palestinians-dead-262070">The escalation</a> began early Tuesday with&nbsp;Israel's targeted killing of a top Islamic Jihad commander, Baha Abu al-Ata, whom it accused of being behind rocket fire and other attacks.

The violence came at a politically sensitive time for&nbsp;Israel, with no new government in place since a September election ended in deadlock.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Abu al-Ata "was killed alongside dozens of terrorists" after the strike on his home, adding: "Our enemies got the message: We can reach anyone, even in their bed."

That strike triggered almost immediate retaliatory rocket fire from Islamic Jihad at&nbsp;Israel, setting off air-raid sirens and sending Israelis rushing to bomb shelters in the country's south and central regions.

Israel's military said some 450 rockets had been fired at its territory since Tuesday morning and air defences had intercepted dozens of them in fireballs high in the sky.

No Israelis were killed, though one rocket narrowly missed speeding cars on a busy highway. Israeli medics said they had treated some 63 people as of Wednesday night for mild injuries and stress.

Israel&nbsp;responded with airstrikes, saying it targeted more Islamic Jihad militant sites and rocket- and missile-launching squads.

Violent escalation&nbsp;

Islamic Jihad has said several more of its members were among those killed in the fighting this week.

Palestinian officials said eight members of the same family, including five children, were killed in an Israeli strike in the central Gaza Strip.

Israel's military said the man targeted and killed in that strike was an Islamic Jihad rocket unit commander.

"He, like many others, had the tactic of hiding ammunition and military infrastructure in their own residence," said military spokesman Jonathan Conricus.

"Of course we try always to minimise the amount of non-combatants killed or injured."

Relatives, neighbours and an Islamic Jihad spokesman disputed that he belonged to the militia, with some saying he had previously worked as a Palestinian Authority (PA) military police officer.

"This is a war crime," said neighbour Adan Abu Abdallah. "You are killing innocent children, sleeping at home."

Weekly protests

Unusually,&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;has singled out Islamic Jihad rather than hold Hamas -- the Islamist movement that rules Gaza -- responsible for the violence.

Israeli analysts said it was a clear signal the army sought to avoid a wider conflict in Gaza, where&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;and Palestinian militants have fought three wars since 2008.

Hamas repeatedly said it would not abandon its ally, but its decision not to join the fight helped maintain a fragile truce with&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;that has seen tens of millions of dollars in Qatari aid flow into the impoverished Gaza Strip since last year.

An Egyptian official said the ceasefire had included an agreement that Palestinian groups in Gaza work to prevent violence by demonstrators during weekly protests near the border fence.

In return,&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;agreed to stop hostilities and commit to a ceasefire during the weekly demonstrations, according to the official.

Israel&nbsp;did not confirm any of those claims.

Netanyahu did not comment publicly on the ceasefire, but had warned a day earlier that Islamic Jihad must stop its rocket attacks or "absorb more and more blows".

He added that&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;did not want a further escalation but, if necessary, was prepared to respond "without mercy".

Israel launched fresh strikes against Islamic Jihad targets in Gaza, the army said early Friday, weakening a ceasefire put in place after fighting this week killed 34 Palestinians in exchanges of fire.

Israel launched fresh strikes against Islamic Jihad targets in Gaza, the army said early Friday, weakening a ceasefire put in place after fighting this week killed 34 Palestinians in exchanges of fire. The ceasefire began Thursday morning following two days of deadly violence in the Gaza Strip triggered by an Israeli strike on an Islamic Jihad commander. Israel Defence Forces (IDF) told reporters that new overnight strikes were underway on Islamic Jihad, the second most powerful Palestinian militant group in Gaza after Hamas. It came after five rockets were fired at Israel from Gaza -- also after the ceasefire came into effect -- with two of them intercepted by air defences, according to the army. "The IDF views the violation of the ceasefire and rockets directed at Israel with great severity," the army said in a news release. Israel's military was prepared to "continue operating as necessary against all attempts to harm Israel civilians", it said. Two injured citizens were being treated in hospital in the southern part of the territory, according to the health ministry in Gaza. The ceasefire brokered by Egyptian and UN officials, the usual mediators between Gaza and Israel, was agreed as the flare-up raised fears of a new all-out conflict. During the day on Thursday normal life had resumed quietly in Israeli regions near the Gaza border, while in Gaza, citizens had also embraced the return of relative calm. "We hope for peace, we don't want war," said Mahmoud Jarda, an inhabitant of the enclave. Bomb shelters The escalation began early Tuesday with Israel's targeted killing of a top Islamic Jihad commander, Baha Abu al-Ata, whom it accused of being behind rocket fire and other attacks. The violence came at a politically sensitive time for Israel, with no new government in place since a September election ended in deadlock. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Abu al-Ata "was killed alongside dozens of terrorists" after the strike on his home, adding: "Our enemies got the message: We can reach anyone, even in their bed." That strike triggered almost immediate retaliatory rocket fire from Islamic Jihad at Israel, setting off air-raid sirens and sending Israelis rushing to bomb shelters in the country's south and central regions. Israel's military said some 450 rockets had been fired at its territory since Tuesday morning and air defences had intercepted dozens of them in fireballs high in the sky. No Israelis were killed, though one rocket narrowly missed speeding cars on a busy highway. Israeli medics said they had treated some 63 people as of Wednesday night for mild injuries and stress. Israel responded with airstrikes, saying it targeted more Islamic Jihad militant sites and rocket- and missile-launching squads. Violent escalation Islamic Jihad has said several more of its members were among those killed in the fighting this week. Palestinian officials said eight members of the same family, including five children, were killed in an Israeli strike in the central Gaza Strip. Israel's military said the man targeted and killed in that strike was an Islamic Jihad rocket unit commander. "He, like many others, had the tactic of hiding ammunition and military infrastructure in their own residence," said military spokesman Jonathan Conricus. "Of course we try always to minimise the amount of non-combatants killed or injured." Relatives, neighbours and an Islamic Jihad spokesman disputed that he belonged to the militia, with some saying he had previously worked as a Palestinian Authority (PA) military police officer. "This is a war crime," said neighbour Adan Abu Abdallah. "You are killing innocent children, sleeping at home." Weekly protests Unusually, Israel has singled out Islamic Jihad rather than hold Hamas -- the Islamist movement that rules Gaza -- responsible for the violence. Israeli analysts said it was a clear signal the army sought to avoid a wider conflict in Gaza, where Israel and Palestinian militants have fought three wars since 2008. Hamas repeatedly said it would not abandon its ally, but its decision not to join the fight helped maintain a fragile truce with Israel that has seen tens of millions of dollars in Qatari aid flow into the impoverished Gaza Strip since last year. An Egyptian official said the ceasefire had included an agreement that Palestinian groups in Gaza work to prevent violence by demonstrators during weekly protests near the border fence. In return, Israel agreed to stop hostilities and commit to a ceasefire during the weekly demonstrations, according to the official. Israel did not confirm any of those claims. Netanyahu did not comment publicly on the ceasefire, but had warned a day earlier that Islamic Jihad must stop its rocket attacks or "absorb more and more blows". He added that Israel did not want a further escalation but, if necessary, was prepared to respond "without mercy".

Israel strikes Islamic Jihad targets in Gaza despite ceasefire

The Russian side of the Russian-Turkish commission monitoring the implementation of the Syrian ceasefire has registered 16 truce breaches in the country over the past 24 hours, while the Turkish side has recorded 26 ceasefire violations, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Saturday. 
 
"The Russian party of the Russia-Turkey joint commission reviewing issues related to violations of the ceasefire has registered 16 cases of firing in [Syrian] provinces, namely seven in Idlib, two in Aleppo, five in Latakia and two in Hama. The Turkish side has registered 26 cases of firing in [Syrian] provinces: six in Idlib, 14 in Latakia, four in Hama and two in Aleppo," the ministry said in its daily bulletin. 
 
According to the bulletin, the Russian military carried out no humanitarian operations over the given period. 
 
Meanwhile, almost 740 Syrian refugees have returned back home from Jordan and Lebanon over the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry's Center for the Reconciliation of Opposing Sides and Refugee Migration Monitoring said. 
 
"Over the past 24 hours, a total of 739 refugees have returned to the Syrian Arab Republic from foreign countries: 171 people, including 51 women and 88 children, have returned from Lebanon via the Jaydet-Yabus and Talkalakh checkpoints, while 568 people, including 170 women and 290 children, have returned from Jordan via the Nassib checkpoint," the centre&nbsp;said in its daily bulletin. 
 
Since January 1, 2019, more than 36,000 refugees have returned back to Syria. 
 
As the Syrian government has regained control over most of the country's territories that were seized by terrorists, it is now focused on creating favourable conditions for repatriating refugees. Moscow is assisting Damascus in this process, along with providing humanitarian aid to civilians and being a guarantor of the ceasefire.

The Russian side of the Russian-Turkish commission monitoring the implementation of the Syrian ceasefire has registered 16 truce breaches in the country over the past 24 hours, while the Turkish side has recorded 26 ceasefire violations, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Saturday.

The Russian side of the Russian-Turkish commission monitoring the implementation of the Syrian ceasefire has registered 16 truce breaches in the country over the past 24 hours, while the Turkish side has recorded 26 ceasefire violations, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Saturday. "The Russian party of the Russia-Turkey joint commission reviewing issues related to violations of the ceasefire has registered 16 cases of firing in [Syrian] provinces, namely seven in Idlib, two in Aleppo, five in Latakia and two in Hama. The Turkish side has registered 26 cases of firing in [Syrian] provinces: six in Idlib, 14 in Latakia, four in Hama and two in Aleppo," the ministry said in its daily bulletin. According to the bulletin, the Russian military carried out no humanitarian operations over the given period. Meanwhile, almost 740 Syrian refugees have returned back home from Jordan and Lebanon over the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry's Center for the Reconciliation of Opposing Sides and Refugee Migration Monitoring said. "Over the past 24 hours, a total of 739 refugees have returned to the Syrian Arab Republic from foreign countries: 171 people, including 51 women and 88 children, have returned from Lebanon via the Jaydet-Yabus and Talkalakh checkpoints, while 568 people, including 170 women and 290 children, have returned from Jordan via the Nassib checkpoint," the centre said in its daily bulletin. Since January 1, 2019, more than 36,000 refugees have returned back to Syria. As the Syrian government has regained control over most of the country's territories that were seized by terrorists, it is now focused on creating favourable conditions for repatriating refugees. Moscow is assisting Damascus in this process, along with providing humanitarian aid to civilians and being a guarantor of the ceasefire.

Russia registers 16 ceasefire violations in Syria over last 24 hours

A civilian was killed in ceasefire violation by Pakistan Army in the Machil sector of Kupwara district here on Wednesday, police said.

"1 civilian was killed and 3 civilians were injured in cross border shelling by Pakistan in Machil area, Kupwara," Kashmir Zone Police tweeted.

This comes a day after unidentified terrorists shot dead five labourers and left one wounded in Kulgam area on Tuesday, police said. Troops of 18 Battalion Army and JKP had reached the spot and cordoned off the area. In another incident, the armed terrorists had fired at a school building in Pulwama on Tuesday.

(With inputs from ANI) 
&nbsp;

A civilian was killed in ceasefire violation by Pakistan Army in the Machil sector of Kupwara district here on Wednesday, police said. "1 civilian was killed and 3 civilians were injured in cross border shelling by Pakistan in Machil area, Kupwara," Kashmir Zone Police tweeted.

A civilian was killed in ceasefire violation by Pakistan Army in the Machil sector of Kupwara district here on Wednesday, police said. "1 civilian was killed and 3 civilians were injured in cross border shelling by Pakistan in Machil area, Kupwara," Kashmir Zone Police tweeted. This comes a day after unidentified terrorists shot dead five labourers and left one wounded in Kulgam area on Tuesday, police said. Troops of 18 Battalion Army and JKP had reached the spot and cordoned off the area. In another incident, the armed terrorists had fired at a school building in Pulwama on Tuesday. (With inputs from ANI)

Pakistan violates ceasefire at LoC in Kashmir, 1 civilian killed

The Taliban should call a one-month ceasefire to prove they still control their forces, Afghanistan's national security advisor said Tuesday, amid signs the US wants to rekindle talks with the insurgents.

Hamdullah Mohib, a strong critic of earlier US-Taliban negotiations that excluded his government, said the Taliban no longer operate as a cohesive body and some commanders may have joined the Islamic State group.

"If the Taliban really want peace, they should prove how much control they have over their commanders and how much they really obey their commands," Mohib said at a press conference.

"Our suggestion is for a one-month ceasefire, followed by negotiations."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/on-again-off-again-erratic-history-of-talks-with-the-taliban-248439">On again, off again: Erratic history of US talks with the Taliban</a>

Observers have sometimes questioned whether there is a disconnect between the Taliban's political wing, based in Doha, and its military commanders in Afghanistan.

The insurgents have repeatedly rebuffed previous calls for a ceasefire, but last year they downed weapons for a historic, three-day truce.

Mohib, Afghanistan's former ambassador to the US, said any future negotiations should include his government, as well as Pakistan, which has long been accused of backing the Taliban.

"Pakistan should provide a guarantee that they will not support the Taliban or other groups like them and not give them safe havens," he said.

Pakistan denies it supports the Taliban.

The US spent the past year pushing for a deal with the Taliban that would have seen the Pentagon pull thousands of troops from Afghanistan in return for security guarantees.&nbsp;

But President Donald Trump cancelled talks last month as Taliban attacks continued, including one that killed a US soldier.&nbsp;

Zalmay Khalilzad, the US special envoy leading talks for Washington, has since spoken informally with Taliban officials in Pakistan, raising the possibility Washington seeks to resume dialogue.

Khalilzad was in Kabul on Sunday and visited Islamabad again Monday, though it was unclear if he spoke to Taliban officials on that visit.

Mohib in March infuriated the Trump administration by suggesting Afghan-born Khalilzad wanted to install a caretaker government and make himself "viceroy".

Even though Trump has declared the Taliban talks "dead", Khalilzad has continued criss-crossing the globe to build international consensus on a potential deal with the Taliban and an eventual end to America's longest war.

On Monday, he welcomed a proposal from China to host a fresh meeting bringing together Afghan officials and the Taliban, and last week the US and Europe issued a joint statement saying: "Sustainable peace can only be achieved through a negotiated political settlement."

The Taliban should call a one-month ceasefire to prove they still control their forces, Afghanistan's national security advisor said Tuesday, amid signs the US wants to rekindle talks with the insurgents.

The Taliban should call a one-month ceasefire to prove they still control their forces, Afghanistan's national security advisor said Tuesday, amid signs the US wants to rekindle talks with the insurgents. Hamdullah Mohib, a strong critic of earlier US-Taliban negotiations that excluded his government, said the Taliban no longer operate as a cohesive body and some commanders may have joined the Islamic State group. "If the Taliban really want peace, they should prove how much control they have over their commanders and how much they really obey their commands," Mohib said at a press conference. "Our suggestion is for a one-month ceasefire, followed by negotiations." Also read: On again, off again: Erratic history of US talks with the Taliban Observers have sometimes questioned whether there is a disconnect between the Taliban's political wing, based in Doha, and its military commanders in Afghanistan. The insurgents have repeatedly rebuffed previous calls for a ceasefire, but last year they downed weapons for a historic, three-day truce. Mohib, Afghanistan's former ambassador to the US, said any future negotiations should include his government, as well as Pakistan, which has long been accused of backing the Taliban. "Pakistan should provide a guarantee that they will not support the Taliban or other groups like them and not give them safe havens," he said. Pakistan denies it supports the Taliban. The US spent the past year pushing for a deal with the Taliban that would have seen the Pentagon pull thousands of troops from Afghanistan in return for security guarantees. But President Donald Trump cancelled talks last month as Taliban attacks continued, including one that killed a US soldier. Zalmay Khalilzad, the US special envoy leading talks for Washington, has since spoken informally with Taliban officials in Pakistan, raising the possibility Washington seeks to resume dialogue. Khalilzad was in Kabul on Sunday and visited Islamabad again Monday, though it was unclear if he spoke to Taliban officials on that visit. Mohib in March infuriated the Trump administration by suggesting Afghan-born Khalilzad wanted to install a caretaker government and make himself "viceroy". Even though Trump has declared the Taliban talks "dead", Khalilzad has continued criss-crossing the globe to build international consensus on a potential deal with the Taliban and an eventual end to America's longest war. On Monday, he welcomed a proposal from China to host a fresh meeting bringing together Afghan officials and the Taliban, and last week the US and Europe issued a joint statement saying: "Sustainable peace can only be achieved through a negotiated political settlement."

Taliban should call ceasefire to prove control of forces: Official

The repeated ceasefire violations from Pakistan. It is targeting the common Indian civilians who live along the LoC. Watch this WION's exclusive ground report to know more.

Repeated ceasefire violations by Pakistan, civilians targeted | WION Exclusive Ground Report

Top United States officials expressed confidence Sunday that a cease-fire in northern Syria was holding despite skirmishes between Kurdish and Turkish forces.

US President Donald Trump has come under intense criticism, including from fellow Republicans, for effectively giving Turkey a green light to move against the Kurds, the staunchest US allies in the fight against the Islamic State group in Syria.

In a tweet, Trump quoted Defense Secretary Mark Esper as saying "the cease-fire is holding up very nicely," a view echoed by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in a Sunday talk show appearance.

"We're optimistic," Pompeo said on ABC's "This Week."

"There's relatively little fighting, a little sporadic small-arms fire, a mortar or two," he said.

Turkey unleashed the offensive against the Kurds October 9 after Trump cleared the way by ordering US troops out of the area.&nbsp;

Amid mounting international outrage over the offensive, Pompeo and Vice President Mike Pence rushed to Turkey last week to negotiate a pause in the fighting.

Meanwhile, US troops were seen Sunday leaving a key base in northern Syria with their equipment, apparently part of a broad US withdrawal ordered by Trump.

"USA soldiers are not in combat or ceasefire zones. We have secured the Oil. Bringing soldiers home!" Trump said in his tweet.

Top United States officials expressed confidence Sunday that a cease-fire in northern Syria was holding despite skirmishes between Kurdish and Turkish forces. US President Donald Trump has come under intense criticism, including from fellow Republicans, for effectively giving Turkey a green light to move against the Kurds, the staunchest US allies in the fight against the Islamic State group in Syria.

Top United States officials expressed confidence Sunday that a cease-fire in northern Syria was holding despite skirmishes between Kurdish and Turkish forces. US President Donald Trump has come under intense criticism, including from fellow Republicans, for effectively giving Turkey a green light to move against the Kurds, the staunchest US allies in the fight against the Islamic State group in Syria. In a tweet, Trump quoted Defense Secretary Mark Esper as saying "the cease-fire is holding up very nicely," a view echoed by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in a Sunday talk show appearance. "We're optimistic," Pompeo said on ABC's "This Week." "There's relatively little fighting, a little sporadic small-arms fire, a mortar or two," he said. Turkey unleashed the offensive against the Kurds October 9 after Trump cleared the way by ordering US troops out of the area. Amid mounting international outrage over the offensive, Pompeo and Vice President Mike Pence rushed to Turkey last week to negotiate a pause in the fighting. Meanwhile, US troops were seen Sunday leaving a key base in northern Syria with their equipment, apparently part of a broad US withdrawal ordered by Trump. "USA soldiers are not in combat or ceasefire zones. We have secured the Oil. Bringing soldiers home!" Trump said in his tweet.

United States officials 'optimistic' about Syria ceasefire holding

Top senate republicans appeared to be less convinced from the 5 days ceasefire between Syria and Turkey

Top republican senators slam Donald Trump

European Union officials called Sunday for a ceasefire in Afghanistan, saying the breakdown in talks between the US and the Taliban presented an opportunity to push anew for a truce.

US President Donald Trump last month declared talks with the insurgents "dead", citing a Taliban attack that killed a US soldier.

Negotiations had been in the final stages for a deal that would have seen the US pull troops from Afghanistan after 18 years in return for various Taliban guarantees.

But to the dismay of many Afghans and international observers, the deal included no immediate, comprehensive ceasefire, rather it would supposedly have paved the way for a reduction in violence and later talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government.

Roland Kobia, the EU special envoy for Afghanistan, said the talks' collapse provided a chance to push for a ceasefire which would, in turn, prove a large enough change in Afghanistan for Trump to consider resuming negotiations.

"It's the right moment and the right opportunity to maybe go one step beyond a simple reduction in violence and explore ways in which a ceasefire ... will take place," Kobia told Kabul journalists.

"The idea is really to see how we can move the ceasefire idea forward instead of leaving it for later.... There is an opportunity here today".

When asked how the EU, which has only a limited footprint in Afghanistan, could leverage a truce, Kobia suggested that the Taliban might return to power in "one form or another" within months so would entertain a truce to help normalise future relations with the European bloc.

"A ceasefire would be a token, a guarantee of goodwill and good preparation for the normalisation of these relationships," Kobia said.

The Taliban, for its part, has steadfastly ruled out an immediate ceasefire but last year downed weapons for a three-day truce.

Delayed election results

Afghanistan is currently in an uneasy waiting period following the first round of presidential elections on September 28.&nbsp;

Results were supposed to be released Saturday but have been indefinitely delayed due to "technical issues", the Independent Election Commission said.

Pierre Mayaudon, head of the EU delegation in Afghanistan, said a delay of a few days to finalise results was legitimate to ensure votes were fairly counted.

"But not many more days that again will go into weeks and will possibly raise the perception that something is happening," he told reporters.

US Defense Secretary Mark Esper meanwhile arrived in Kabul on Sunday on an unannounced visit.

According to Fawad Aman, a spokesman for the Afghan defence ministry, Esper was due to meet with "key leaders and receive an operational update".

US Forces-Afghanistan, headquartered in Kabul, did not immediately return a request for comment on Esper's visit.

Since Trump ended talks with the Taliban, Zalmay Khalilzad, the US special envoy leading negotiations, has spoken informally with insurgents in Pakistan, raising the possibility the US is seeking to resume discussions.

In the meantime, violence in Afghanistan continues unabated. On Friday, at least 70 people were killed when a mosque in Nangarhar province was bombed.

European Union officials called Sunday for a ceasefire in Afghanistan, saying the breakdown in talks between the US and the Taliban presented an opportunity to push anew for a truce.

European Union officials called Sunday for a ceasefire in Afghanistan, saying the breakdown in talks between the US and the Taliban presented an opportunity to push anew for a truce. US President Donald Trump last month declared talks with the insurgents "dead", citing a Taliban attack that killed a US soldier. Negotiations had been in the final stages for a deal that would have seen the US pull troops from Afghanistan after 18 years in return for various Taliban guarantees. But to the dismay of many Afghans and international observers, the deal included no immediate, comprehensive ceasefire, rather it would supposedly have paved the way for a reduction in violence and later talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government. Roland Kobia, the EU special envoy for Afghanistan, said the talks' collapse provided a chance to push for a ceasefire which would, in turn, prove a large enough change in Afghanistan for Trump to consider resuming negotiations. "It's the right moment and the right opportunity to maybe go one step beyond a simple reduction in violence and explore ways in which a ceasefire ... will take place," Kobia told Kabul journalists. "The idea is really to see how we can move the ceasefire idea forward instead of leaving it for later.... There is an opportunity here today". When asked how the EU, which has only a limited footprint in Afghanistan, could leverage a truce, Kobia suggested that the Taliban might return to power in "one form or another" within months so would entertain a truce to help normalise future relations with the European bloc. "A ceasefire would be a token, a guarantee of goodwill and good preparation for the normalisation of these relationships," Kobia said. The Taliban, for its part, has steadfastly ruled out an immediate ceasefire but last year downed weapons for a three-day truce. Delayed election results Afghanistan is currently in an uneasy waiting period following the first round of presidential elections on September 28. Results were supposed to be released Saturday but have been indefinitely delayed due to "technical issues", the Independent Election Commission said. Pierre Mayaudon, head of the EU delegation in Afghanistan, said a delay of a few days to finalise results was legitimate to ensure votes were fairly counted. "But not many more days that again will go into weeks and will possibly raise the perception that something is happening," he told reporters. US Defense Secretary Mark Esper meanwhile arrived in Kabul on Sunday on an unannounced visit. According to Fawad Aman, a spokesman for the Afghan defence ministry, Esper was due to meet with "key leaders and receive an operational update". US Forces-Afghanistan, headquartered in Kabul, did not immediately return a request for comment on Esper's visit. Since Trump ended talks with the Taliban, Zalmay Khalilzad, the US special envoy leading negotiations, has spoken informally with insurgents in Pakistan, raising the possibility the US is seeking to resume discussions. In the meantime, violence in Afghanistan continues unabated. On Friday, at least 70 people were killed when a mosque in Nangarhar province was bombed.

European Union calls for Afghanistan ceasefire

Turkey agreed to pause its offensive in Syria for five days to let Kurdish forces withdraw from a "safe zone" Ankara had sought to capture, in a deal hailed by Washington but which Turkish leaders cast as a complete victory.

Ceasefire announced in Syria: Turkey agreed to no military actions

A Border Security Force (BSF) personnel sustained minor injuries in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-violates-ceasefire-in-jammu-kashmirs-poonch-indian-army-retaliating-252949">ceasefire violation</a> by Pakistan at Manyari post of Hiranagar in Kathua district, last night.

Constable Abhishek Roy, who received splinter injuries, is undergoing treatment at JMC hospital.

His condition is reported to be normal.

The Pakistani rangers violated ceasefire by firing 54 HE bombs, and 33 RDS&nbsp;with small weapons.

The BSF troops strongly retaliated to the firing.

A Border Security Force (BSF) personnel sustained minor injuries in ceasefire violation by Pakistan at Manyari post of Hiranagar in Kathua district, last night. Constable Abhishek Roy, who received splinter injuries, is undergoing treatment at JMC hospital.

A Border Security Force (BSF) personnel sustained minor injuries in ceasefire violation by Pakistan at Manyari post of Hiranagar in Kathua district, last night. Constable Abhishek Roy, who received splinter injuries, is undergoing treatment at JMC hospital. His condition is reported to be normal. The Pakistani rangers violated ceasefire by firing 54 HE bombs, and 33 RDS with small weapons. The BSF troops strongly retaliated to the firing.

Border Security Force jawan sustains injuries in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua

Pakistan on Wednesday morning <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-pakistan-violates-ceasefire-along-loc-in-shahpur-kerni-sectors-in-poonch-district-250938">violated ceasefire</a> along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Shahpur and Kirni sector in Pooch district of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Indian Army is retaliating befittingly to the unprovoked ceasefire violation.

Firing and shelling from across the border started at around 7:45 am IST today, with the Pakistani troops resorting to the firing of small arms and shelling with mortars.

Further details are awaited.

Pakistan on Wednesday morning violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Shahpur and Kirni sector in Pooch district of Jammu and Kashmir. The Indian Army is retaliating befittingly to the unprovoked ceasefire violation.

Pakistan on Wednesday morning violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Shahpur and Kirni sector in Pooch district of Jammu and Kashmir. The Indian Army is retaliating befittingly to the unprovoked ceasefire violation. Firing and shelling from across the border started at around 7:45 am IST today, with the Pakistani troops resorting to the firing of small arms and shelling with mortars. Further details are awaited.

Pakistan violates ceasefire in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch, Indian Army retaliating

India raises ceasefire violation issue, asks Pakistan to maintain peace. Watch this video know more.

India asks Pakistan to maintain peace

India raises ceasefire violation issue, asks Pakistan to maintain peace

Pakistan on Thursday violated ceasefire along the Line of Control in Mendhar sector of Poonch district.

Officials said at about 1130 hours, Pakistan initiated ceasefire violation by firing of small arms and shelling with mortars in Mendhar.

Indian Army is retaliating befittingly.

Pakistan had violated ceasefire in Poonch on Tuesday as well.

Pakistan on Thursday violated ceasefire along the Line of Control in Mendhar sector of Poonch district. Officials said at about 1130 hours, Pakistan initiated ceasefire violation by firing of small arms and shelling with mortars in Mendhar.

Pakistan on Thursday violated ceasefire along the Line of Control in Mendhar sector of Poonch district. Officials said at about 1130 hours, Pakistan initiated ceasefire violation by firing of small arms and shelling with mortars in Mendhar. Indian Army is retaliating befittingly. Pakistan had violated ceasefire in Poonch on Tuesday as well.

Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire in Mendhar sector of Poonch district

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Refuting Pakistan DG ISPR`s claims of six Indian casualties in the ceasefire violation (CVF) along the Line of Control, the Indian Army on Tuesday said this again proves that the neighbouring country as a nation is only propaganda machinery.

"Pakistan DG ISPR`s tweet of six Indian casualties again proves that Pakistan as a nation is only propaganda machinery. In the ongoing ceasefire violation today in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-army-jawan-killed-four-personnel-injured-in-pakistan-ceasefire-violation-244508">KRISHNA GHATI Sector</a>, Indian Army had one fatal casualty, four non-fatal casualties," Indian Army said.

The Army termed it as a deliberate design by Pakistan to up the ante along the Line of Control to desperately seek international attention.

"Initiation of ceasefire violation followed by false figure of Indian casualties is Pakistan`s deliberate design to up the ante along LoC to desperately seek international attention. Unlike Pakistan Army, Indian Army never hides the casualties," Indian Army added.

One Indian Army soldier had lost his life in the ceasefire violation in Krishna Ghati sector during the day.

Earlier in the day, Pakistani Army Spokesperson had in a tweet claimed that six Indian soldiers have been killed in the ceasefire violation along the Line of Control.

"Pakistan Army`s befitting response to Indian CFVs in Tatta Pani Sector along LOC. Indian fire had martyred 3 civilians including 7 years old boy. Pakistan Army targeted Indian posts. 6 Indian soldiers including an officer killed, many injured 2 bunkers destroyed," DG ISPR said in a tweet.&nbsp;

Refuting Pakistan DG ISPR`s claims of six Indian casualties in the ceasefire violation (CVF) along the Line of Control, the Indian Army on Tuesday said this again proves that the neighbouring country as a nation is only propaganda machinery.

Refuting Pakistan DG ISPR`s claims of six Indian casualties in the ceasefire violation (CVF) along the Line of Control, the Indian Army on Tuesday said this again proves that the neighbouring country as a nation is only propaganda machinery. "Pakistan DG ISPR`s tweet of six Indian casualties again proves that Pakistan as a nation is only propaganda machinery. In the ongoing ceasefire violation today in KRISHNA GHATI Sector, Indian Army had one fatal casualty, four non-fatal casualties," Indian Army said. The Army termed it as a deliberate design by Pakistan to up the ante along the Line of Control to desperately seek international attention. "Initiation of ceasefire violation followed by false figure of Indian casualties is Pakistan`s deliberate design to up the ante along LoC to desperately seek international attention. Unlike Pakistan Army, Indian Army never hides the casualties," Indian Army added. One Indian Army soldier had lost his life in the ceasefire violation in Krishna Ghati sector during the day. Earlier in the day, Pakistani Army Spokesperson had in a tweet claimed that six Indian soldiers have been killed in the ceasefire violation along the Line of Control. "Pakistan Army`s befitting response to Indian CFVs in Tatta Pani Sector along LOC. Indian fire had martyred 3 civilians including 7 years old boy. Pakistan Army targeted Indian posts. 6 Indian soldiers including an officer killed, many injured 2 bunkers destroyed," DG ISPR said in a tweet.

Pakistan as nation is only propaganda machinery: Indian Army rebuts claims of six casualties in CFV

An Indian army man Lance Naik Sandeep Thapa was killed as Pakistan violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Nowshera sector of Rajouri district on Saturday.

The 35-year-old had succumbed to his injuries in the firing.&nbsp;He was a resident of Dehradun.

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Indian Army: Lance Naik Sandeep Thapa has lost his life in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Nowshera Sector, Rajouri; firing underway. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/guCG4i1hgj">pic.twitter.com/guCG4i1hgj</a>
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The firing began at around 6.30 am.&nbsp;

Pakistan initiated unprovoked firing with small arms and mortar shells. The Indian Army is retaliating effectively.

Thapa's death is the seventh instance of casualty in ceasefire violations by Pakistan this year.

An Indian army man Lance Naik Sandeep Thapa was killed as Pakistan violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Nowshera sector of Rajouri district on Saturday.

An Indian army man Lance Naik Sandeep Thapa was killed as Pakistan violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Nowshera sector of Rajouri district on Saturday. The 35-year-old had succumbed to his injuries in the firing. He was a resident of Dehradun. Indian Army: Lance Naik Sandeep Thapa has lost his life in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Nowshera Sector, Rajouri; firing underway. #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/guCG4i1hgj — ANI (@ANI) August 17, 2019 × The firing began at around 6.30 am. Pakistan initiated unprovoked firing with small arms and mortar shells. The Indian Army is retaliating effectively. Thapa's death is the seventh instance of casualty in ceasefire violations by Pakistan this year.

Army jawan killed as Pakistan violates ceasefire in Jammu and Kashmir's Nowshera sector

The Taliban are unlikely to call a ceasefire any time soon, the group's leader indicated Saturday, though he said the "doors of dialogue" with the US remain open.

The rare message from Haibatullah Akhundzada comes after the sixth round of US-led talks ended last month in Qatar with little sign of progress and amid continued bloodshed across Afghanistan.

"The doors of dialogue and negotiations have been kept open and at this very moment, the (Taliban) negotiation team... Is engaged in negotiations with the American side," Akhundzada said in a message ahead of the upcoming festival of Eid, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani had proposed a nationwide ceasefire at the start of Ramadan early last month, but the Taliban rejected the offer.

Last year, the Taliban observed a three-day ceasefire over Eid and many Afghans -- exhausted by decades of war and violence -- had pinned their hopes on another truce this year.

But Akhundzada said: "No one should expect us to pour cold water on the heated battlefronts of jihad or forget our 40-year sacrifices before reaching our objectives." 
In a sign of Afghans' frustration with their country's seemingly unending conflict, a group of protestors have restarted a peace march that last year saw them walking across Afghanistan and into the capital Kabul.

Bismillah Watandost, a spokesman for the People's Peace Movement, told AFP on Saturday that about 30 people had started the walk late Thursday, heading from Lashkar Gah to Musa Qala in Helmand province, a Taliban stronghold.

"We will be marching 150 kilometres (93 miles). Some of our friends have blisters on their feet from wearing old shoes," Watandost said.

"This is our first peace march during the holy month of Ramadan, all of us are fasting." He said the group aims to express to the Taliban the pain and suffering of Afghans.

"Even if we are intimidated with death threats, we won't care about it," Watandost said.

On Friday, former president Hamid Karzai mistakenly declared the Taliban had announced a new ceasefire after hearing an old message the insurgents had put out last year.

Karzai's announcement unleashed a brief spell of confusion across the country, with media outlets firing off tweets and breaking news reports announcing the alleged truce.

The Taliban are unlikely to call a ceasefire any time soon, the group's leader indicated Saturday, though he said the "doors of dialogue" with the US remain open.

The Taliban are unlikely to call a ceasefire any time soon, the group's leader indicated Saturday, though he said the "doors of dialogue" with the US remain open. The rare message from Haibatullah Akhundzada comes after the sixth round of US-led talks ended last month in Qatar with little sign of progress and amid continued bloodshed across Afghanistan. "The doors of dialogue and negotiations have been kept open and at this very moment, the (Taliban) negotiation team... Is engaged in negotiations with the American side," Akhundzada said in a message ahead of the upcoming festival of Eid, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani had proposed a nationwide ceasefire at the start of Ramadan early last month, but the Taliban rejected the offer. Last year, the Taliban observed a three-day ceasefire over Eid and many Afghans -- exhausted by decades of war and violence -- had pinned their hopes on another truce this year. But Akhundzada said: "No one should expect us to pour cold water on the heated battlefronts of jihad or forget our 40-year sacrifices before reaching our objectives." In a sign of Afghans' frustration with their country's seemingly unending conflict, a group of protestors have restarted a peace march that last year saw them walking across Afghanistan and into the capital Kabul. Bismillah Watandost, a spokesman for the People's Peace Movement, told AFP on Saturday that about 30 people had started the walk late Thursday, heading from Lashkar Gah to Musa Qala in Helmand province, a Taliban stronghold. "We will be marching 150 kilometres (93 miles). Some of our friends have blisters on their feet from wearing old shoes," Watandost said. "This is our first peace march during the holy month of Ramadan, all of us are fasting." He said the group aims to express to the Taliban the pain and suffering of Afghans. "Even if we are intimidated with death threats, we won't care about it," Watandost said. On Friday, former president Hamid Karzai mistakenly declared the Taliban had announced a new ceasefire after hearing an old message the insurgents had put out last year. Karzai's announcement unleashed a brief spell of confusion across the country, with media outlets firing off tweets and breaking news reports announcing the alleged truce.

Taliban leader indicates no ceasefire anytime soon

The Russian army has said President Bashar al-Assad's Syrian forces had ceased fire "unilaterally" in northwestern Idlib province, where the UN fears a "humanitarian catastrophe".

Russian army says Syrian forces have called ceasefire in Idlib

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/comedian-volodymyr-zelensky-takes-office-as-ukraines-president-220079">Ukraine's new President Volodymyr Zelensky</a> on Monday used his inaugural speech to announce his first priority was ending the five-year conflict with Moscow-backed separatists in the east of the country that has claimed over 13,000 lives.

A month after scoring a landslide victory against incumbent Petro Poroshenko amid widespread public discontent with the political establishment, the 41-year-old comedian has become Ukraine's youngest post-Soviet president.&nbsp;

"Our first task is a ceasefire in the Donbass," Zelensky said during the ceremony in parliament in Kiev, referring to the eastern region, prompting a round of applause.

"We didn't start this war but it is up to us to end it," he said.

He reiterated Ukraine does not recognise Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea nor the separatists' self-proclaimed republics in the industrial east.

"Crimea and Donbass are Ukrainian lands," Zelensky said, adding that Ukraine had lost not just territory but the hearts and minds of people living there, who "are not strangers, they are ours, Ukrainians."

He also announced that he would dissolve parliament, in order to call early parliamentary elections, which had originally been scheduled for October.

"People must come to power who will serve the public," Zelensky said after wrangling with hostile lawmakers whom he has called "petty crooks".

Critics had questioned whether Zelensky would be able to govern without a parliamentary majority. Even setting a date for his inauguration took weeks of negotiations with lawmakers.&nbsp;

In a hard-hitting speech, Zelensky called for the sacking of the head of the state security service, prosecutor-general and defence minister -- which has to be approved by parliament.

Defence Minister Stepan Poltorak and the head of the SBU security service Vasyl Grytsak swiftly tendered their resignations.

High fives outside parliament&nbsp;

Zelensky took a non-traditional route to his inauguration -- walking on foot from his home nearby, after saying he wanted a less pompous ceremony.&nbsp;

Dressed in a dark suit, he exchanged high fives with supporters waiting outside, took selfies with them and even jumped up planting a kiss on a supporter's forehead.

In his speech, Zelensky referred to his background as a comedian. "In my life, I've tried to do all I could to make Ukrainians smile," he said.&nbsp;

"In the next five years, I'll do all I can so that Ukrainians don't cry."The parliament's speaker Andriy Parubiy closed the inauguration ceremony with words: "Thanks to everyone, this has been fun."

Uniquely for a first-time president, Zelensky has played the role before -- for laughs. He starred as a history teacher who was unexpectedly elected president in a television comedy series, "Servant of the People".

When the actor and comedian announced his candidacy on December 31, few took it seriously, but after an unprecedented campaign largely waged through social media, he won more than 73 per cent in the second round on April 21, trouncing Poroshenko.

Poroshenko led Ukraine for five years, overseeing the fallout over the Crimea annexation and the conflict in the east.

Though he launched some reforms, he was criticised for failing to improve living standards or effectively fight corruption.

Challenges Ahead&nbsp;

Zelensky has vowed to continue the country's pro-Western course but his critics question how he will deal with the enormous challenges of the separatist conflict and ongoing economic problems.

The separatist authorities have indicated that they could be ready to negotiate with Zelensky.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Monday said Russian President Vladimir Putin has no plans to meet with Zelensky and would not be congratulating him on taking up the post.

The Russian president will instead "congratulate him on the first successes" in regulating the conflict, he said, calling it a "domestic problem" for Ukraine.

Moscow has been accused of militarily supporting the separatists, and Putin this month ordered an easing of procedures for Ukrainians living in the eastern separatist regions to gain Russian citizenship, a challenge to the new Ukrainian leader.&nbsp;

Ukraine's allies have given Zelensky a warm welcome, but the new president will immediately have to deal with a number of sensitive international issues.

In a sign of possible tensions between Kiev and Washington, Ukraine's key ally against Moscow, US President Donald Trump's personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani this month cancelled a visit to Kiev, saying Zelensky is "surrounded by people who are enemies of the (US) president."

The political situation prompted one pro-Western lawmaker, Serguiy Vysotsky, to warn Zelensky that the inauguration "isn't the end of your adventures -- it's just the beginning".

Ukraine's new President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday used his inaugural speech to announce his first priority was ending the five-year conflict with Moscow-backed separatists in the east of the country that has claimed over 13,000 lives.

Ukraine's new President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday used his inaugural speech to announce his first priority was ending the five-year conflict with Moscow-backed separatists in the east of the country that has claimed over 13,000 lives. A month after scoring a landslide victory against incumbent Petro Poroshenko amid widespread public discontent with the political establishment, the 41-year-old comedian has become Ukraine's youngest post-Soviet president. "Our first task is a ceasefire in the Donbass," Zelensky said during the ceremony in parliament in Kiev, referring to the eastern region, prompting a round of applause. "We didn't start this war but it is up to us to end it," he said. He reiterated Ukraine does not recognise Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea nor the separatists' self-proclaimed republics in the industrial east. "Crimea and Donbass are Ukrainian lands," Zelensky said, adding that Ukraine had lost not just territory but the hearts and minds of people living there, who "are not strangers, they are ours, Ukrainians." He also announced that he would dissolve parliament, in order to call early parliamentary elections, which had originally been scheduled for October. "People must come to power who will serve the public," Zelensky said after wrangling with hostile lawmakers whom he has called "petty crooks". Critics had questioned whether Zelensky would be able to govern without a parliamentary majority. Even setting a date for his inauguration took weeks of negotiations with lawmakers. In a hard-hitting speech, Zelensky called for the sacking of the head of the state security service, prosecutor-general and defence minister -- which has to be approved by parliament. Defence Minister Stepan Poltorak and the head of the SBU security service Vasyl Grytsak swiftly tendered their resignations. High fives outside parliament Zelensky took a non-traditional route to his inauguration -- walking on foot from his home nearby, after saying he wanted a less pompous ceremony. Dressed in a dark suit, he exchanged high fives with supporters waiting outside, took selfies with them and even jumped up planting a kiss on a supporter's forehead. In his speech, Zelensky referred to his background as a comedian. "In my life, I've tried to do all I could to make Ukrainians smile," he said. "In the next five years, I'll do all I can so that Ukrainians don't cry."The parliament's speaker Andriy Parubiy closed the inauguration ceremony with words: "Thanks to everyone, this has been fun." Uniquely for a first-time president, Zelensky has played the role before -- for laughs. He starred as a history teacher who was unexpectedly elected president in a television comedy series, "Servant of the People". When the actor and comedian announced his candidacy on December 31, few took it seriously, but after an unprecedented campaign largely waged through social media, he won more than 73 per cent in the second round on April 21, trouncing Poroshenko. Poroshenko led Ukraine for five years, overseeing the fallout over the Crimea annexation and the conflict in the east. Though he launched some reforms, he was criticised for failing to improve living standards or effectively fight corruption. Challenges Ahead Zelensky has vowed to continue the country's pro-Western course but his critics question how he will deal with the enormous challenges of the separatist conflict and ongoing economic problems. The separatist authorities have indicated that they could be ready to negotiate with Zelensky. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Monday said Russian President Vladimir Putin has no plans to meet with Zelensky and would not be congratulating him on taking up the post. The Russian president will instead "congratulate him on the first successes" in regulating the conflict, he said, calling it a "domestic problem" for Ukraine. Moscow has been accused of militarily supporting the separatists, and Putin this month ordered an easing of procedures for Ukrainians living in the eastern separatist regions to gain Russian citizenship, a challenge to the new Ukrainian leader. Ukraine's allies have given Zelensky a warm welcome, but the new president will immediately have to deal with a number of sensitive international issues. In a sign of possible tensions between Kiev and Washington, Ukraine's key ally against Moscow, US President Donald Trump's personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani this month cancelled a visit to Kiev, saying Zelensky is "surrounded by people who are enemies of the (US) president." The political situation prompted one pro-Western lawmaker, Serguiy Vysotsky, to warn Zelensky that the inauguration "isn't the end of your adventures -- it's just the beginning".

Ukraine's new president Zelensky says ceasefire first priority

The Pentagon said on Thursday that it had asked Congress for the authority to help fund lodging and transportation for Taliban members who were interested in negotiating local ceasefires with the Afghan government, as the Washington seeks an end to the more than 17-year-old war.

Last year, the Taliban observed an Afghan government ceasefire over the three-day Eid al-Fitr festival, leading to unprecedented scenes of government soldiers and militants embracing on front lines, and raising hopes for talks.

Since then however, fighting between the Taliban and US-backed Afghan government has intensified, even as talks between Washington and the militant group have continued.

"In cases where lodging and transportation would be required to facilitate the participation of all required parties to negotiate a local peace deal, the funds could be used for the purpose," Pentagon spokeswoman Commander Rebecca Rebarich said.

She said the Pentagon was seeking "to lay the groundwork in anticipation of opportunities to facilitate talks with the Afghan government to find a way to end the war." She said until now no funds had been used and the Pentagon did not provide further details of possible funding.

A bill passed this week by the House of Representatives Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense barred the U.S. government from using money to pay for the expenses of Taliban members taking part in the peace talks with the United States, unless the talks included members of the Afghan government or did not restrict the participation of women.

The bill has still not passed the full House Appropriations Committee and it is unclear whether lawmaker's would approve the Pentagon's request.

So far, Afghan government officials have been sidelined from talks between Washington and the Taliban.

Rebarich said that the Defense Department was not reimbursing local insurgent groups taking part in the talks.

"The United States also supports local peace initiatives between the Afghan government and insurgent groups looking to cease hostilities against the Afghan Government and coalition forces," she said.

Rebarich added that the request for this authority was made by the commander of US&nbsp;forces in Afghanistan following the June 2018 ceasefire.

US&nbsp;and Taliban negotiators wrapped up their sixth round of peace talks on Thursday with "some progress" made on a draft agreement for when foreign troops might withdraw from Afghanistan.

The Afghan government has expressed frustration about not being included in talks with the Taliban and the limited information Kabul is being provided by Washington.

"The government does not feel that they have been briefed enough," Roya Rahmani, Afghanistan's ambassador to the United States, told reporters in Washington this week.

"If a peace is to be negotiated and to be durable, it cannot keep on going on without the presence of Afghan people," Rahmani said.

The Pentagon said on Thursday that it had asked Congress for the authority to help fund lodging and transportation for Taliban members who were interested in negotiating local ceasefires with the Afghan government, as the Washington seeks an end to the more than 17-year-old war.

The Pentagon said on Thursday that it had asked Congress for the authority to help fund lodging and transportation for Taliban members who were interested in negotiating local ceasefires with the Afghan government, as the Washington seeks an end to the more than 17-year-old war. Last year, the Taliban observed an Afghan government ceasefire over the three-day Eid al-Fitr festival, leading to unprecedented scenes of government soldiers and militants embracing on front lines, and raising hopes for talks. Since then however, fighting between the Taliban and US-backed Afghan government has intensified, even as talks between Washington and the militant group have continued. "In cases where lodging and transportation would be required to facilitate the participation of all required parties to negotiate a local peace deal, the funds could be used for the purpose," Pentagon spokeswoman Commander Rebecca Rebarich said. She said the Pentagon was seeking "to lay the groundwork in anticipation of opportunities to facilitate talks with the Afghan government to find a way to end the war." She said until now no funds had been used and the Pentagon did not provide further details of possible funding. A bill passed this week by the House of Representatives Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense barred the U.S. government from using money to pay for the expenses of Taliban members taking part in the peace talks with the United States, unless the talks included members of the Afghan government or did not restrict the participation of women. The bill has still not passed the full House Appropriations Committee and it is unclear whether lawmaker's would approve the Pentagon's request. So far, Afghan government officials have been sidelined from talks between Washington and the Taliban. Rebarich said that the Defense Department was not reimbursing local insurgent groups taking part in the talks. "The United States also supports local peace initiatives between the Afghan government and insurgent groups looking to cease hostilities against the Afghan Government and coalition forces," she said. Rebarich added that the request for this authority was made by the commander of US forces in Afghanistan following the June 2018 ceasefire. US and Taliban negotiators wrapped up their sixth round of peace talks on Thursday with "some progress" made on a draft agreement for when foreign troops might withdraw from Afghanistan. The Afghan government has expressed frustration about not being included in talks with the Taliban and the limited information Kabul is being provided by Washington. "The government does not feel that they have been briefed enough," Roya Rahmani, Afghanistan's ambassador to the United States, told reporters in Washington this week. "If a peace is to be negotiated and to be durable, it cannot keep on going on without the presence of Afghan people," Rahmani said.

Pentagon seeks to use funds to transport, lodge Taliban members in search of ceasefires

As many as 513 ceasefire violations by Pakistan have taken place along the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/month-after-balakot-strikes-pakistan-continues-to-block-airspace-205852">line of control </a>(LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir in the past one-and-a-half month and the Pakistan Army has suffered five to six times more casualties than the Indian Army in the retaliatory action, a senior officer said on Saturday.

The Pakistan Army also used heavy weaponry like mortars and artillery guns in over 100 times during these violations and targeted civilian areas but was given a befitting response by the Indian Army, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of White Knight Corps Lt. Gen. Paramjit Singh told reporters in Rajouri.

“Almost 513 ceasefire violations happened in the past one-and-a-half month and over 100 times during these violations, the Pakistan Army used heavy weapons like mortars and artillery guns and targeted civilian areas. Only yesterday [Friday], four civilians, including two girls, were injured in Poonch,” the GOC said.

However, he said the Pakistan Army is being given a befitting response by the Indian Army.

Responding to a question about the casualties suffered by Pakistan in the retaliatory action, he said unlike the Indian Army, Pakistan does not announce the number of its casualties.

“However, as per our sources, the Pakistan Army suffered five to six times more casualties than the casualties on our side,” Lt. Gen. Singh said.

Ten people, including four security personnel, have been killed and nearly 45 others, mostly civilians, injured in the twin districts since India’s preemptive air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terror camp in Pakistan’s Balakot on February 26 in response to the February 14 Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed.

On the sniping incidents from across the border, Lt. Gen. Singh said such incidents had come to nought over the past several months, especially after the Balakot strike.

“Some incidents of sniping took place earlier and accordingly we have taken some measures to strengthen our defence. As per the data this year, only three incidents of sniping by the Pakistan Army were reported from January to February 26 in which one of the fatalities include a civilian porter,” he said.

“There was no sniping incident from February 27 till date, which means the steps taken by us have been successful,” the officer said.

He said the morale of the troops is very high and as long as they are deployed on the borders, the people of the country need not worry.

“They have every kind of weaponry and explosives with them and their resolve is rock solid and always prepared for any challenge. As long as they are on the border, you are safe,” he said.

Responding to a question, the officer said, “Our message to Pakistan is given every day whenever some nefarious activity happens on the border.”

When asked for a comment on politics being played in the name of soldiers during the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, he said the Army does not want to get into the debate.

As many as 513 ceasefire violations by Pakistan have taken place along the line of control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir in the past one-and-a-half month and the Pakistan Army has suffered five to six times more casualties than the Indian Army in the retaliatory action, a senior officer said on Saturday.

As many as 513 ceasefire violations by Pakistan have taken place along the line of control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir in the past one-and-a-half month and the Pakistan Army has suffered five to six times more casualties than the Indian Army in the retaliatory action, a senior officer said on Saturday. The Pakistan Army also used heavy weaponry like mortars and artillery guns in over 100 times during these violations and targeted civilian areas but was given a befitting response by the Indian Army, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of White Knight Corps Lt. Gen. Paramjit Singh told reporters in Rajouri. “Almost 513 ceasefire violations happened in the past one-and-a-half month and over 100 times during these violations, the Pakistan Army used heavy weapons like mortars and artillery guns and targeted civilian areas. Only yesterday [Friday], four civilians, including two girls, were injured in Poonch,” the GOC said. However, he said the Pakistan Army is being given a befitting response by the Indian Army. Responding to a question about the casualties suffered by Pakistan in the retaliatory action, he said unlike the Indian Army, Pakistan does not announce the number of its casualties. “However, as per our sources, the Pakistan Army suffered five to six times more casualties than the casualties on our side,” Lt. Gen. Singh said. Ten people, including four security personnel, have been killed and nearly 45 others, mostly civilians, injured in the twin districts since India’s preemptive air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terror camp in Pakistan’s Balakot on February 26 in response to the February 14 Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. On the sniping incidents from across the border, Lt. Gen. Singh said such incidents had come to nought over the past several months, especially after the Balakot strike. “Some incidents of sniping took place earlier and accordingly we have taken some measures to strengthen our defence. As per the data this year, only three incidents of sniping by the Pakistan Army were reported from January to February 26 in which one of the fatalities include a civilian porter,” he said. “There was no sniping incident from February 27 till date, which means the steps taken by us have been successful,” the officer said. He said the morale of the troops is very high and as long as they are deployed on the borders, the people of the country need not worry. “They have every kind of weaponry and explosives with them and their resolve is rock solid and always prepared for any challenge. As long as they are on the border, you are safe,” he said. Responding to a question, the officer said, “Our message to Pakistan is given every day whenever some nefarious activity happens on the border.” When asked for a comment on politics being played in the name of soldiers during the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, he said the Army does not want to get into the debate.

Enraged by Balakot strike Pakistan violated ceasefire 513 times in 45 days, suffered more than India: Army

Indian Army states that Pakistan breaks ceasefire 513 times post-Balakot air strike. Indian army is giving a befitting response to the Pak army. Watch complete video to know more.

Indian Army: Pakistan breaks ceasefire 513 times post Balakot air strike

Two civilians were injured in the ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Nowshera sector of Rajouri district, yesterday, news agency ANI reported.

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Jammu and Kashmir: Two civilians were injured in the ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Nowshera sector of Rajouri district, yesterday. <a href="https://t.co/g7DNkmBy3r">pic.twitter.com/g7DNkmBy3r</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1114391319974035462?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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According to the report, Pakistan initiated&nbsp;shelling with mortars and firing of small arms along the Line of Control (LoC) around 2.20 pm.

The violation was then retaliated by the Indian Army.

Earlier on April 4, Pakistan violated ceasefire in Gulpar and Degwar sectors of Poonch.

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Two civilians were injured in the ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Nowshera sector of Rajouri district, yesterday, news agency ANI reported. Jammu and Kashmir: Two civilians were injured in the ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Nowshera sector of Rajouri district, yesterday.

Two civilians were injured in the ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Nowshera sector of Rajouri district, yesterday, news agency ANI reported. Jammu and Kashmir: Two civilians were injured in the ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Nowshera sector of Rajouri district, yesterday. pic.twitter.com/g7DNkmBy3r — ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2019 × According to the report, Pakistan initiated shelling with mortars and firing of small arms along the Line of Control (LoC) around 2.20 pm. The violation was then retaliated by the Indian Army. Earlier on April 4, Pakistan violated ceasefire in Gulpar and Degwar sectors of Poonch.

J&K: 2 civilians injured in Rajouri's ceasefire violation by Pakistan

In yet another ceasefire violation, Pakistan resorted to shelling with mortars and firing with small arms early on Monday morning along the Line of Control (LoC) in Sunderbani sector of Rajouri district.

Indian Army retaliated effectively. The firing which began at about 5:30 a.m stopped at about 7:15 am.&nbsp;

Earlier, on 6:30 pm on Sunday Pakistan violated ceasefire here evoking an effective reply from the Indian Army.&nbsp;

This comes after Pakistan on Wednesday violated ceasefire in Poonch sector of the state.

Earlier, Pakistani Rangers also initiated an unprovoked ceasefire violation in Chakkan da Bagh crossing point where the Line of Control trade centre is located.

In yet another ceasefire violation, Pakistan resorted to shelling with mortars and firing with small arms early on Monday morning along the Line of Control (LoC) in Sunderbani sector of Rajouri district.

In yet another ceasefire violation, Pakistan resorted to shelling with mortars and firing with small arms early on Monday morning along the Line of Control (LoC) in Sunderbani sector of Rajouri district. Indian Army retaliated effectively. The firing which began at about 5:30 a.m stopped at about 7:15 am. Earlier, on 6:30 pm on Sunday Pakistan violated ceasefire here evoking an effective reply from the Indian Army. This comes after Pakistan on Wednesday violated ceasefire in Poonch sector of the state. Earlier, Pakistani Rangers also initiated an unprovoked ceasefire violation in Chakkan da Bagh crossing point where the Line of Control trade centre is located.

Pakistan violates ceasefire at Rajouri district in J&K

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