In a possible sign that Ukraine and Russia may&nbsp;soon be embroiled in yet another conflict, Ukraine's defense minister said on Saturday that his country could be provoked due to Russian 'aggression'. The relations between the two countries are on the boil due to the situation in the conflict area of Ukraine's eastern Donbas region.

The region has a sizeable Russian-speaking population.

The minister, Andrii Taran, said Russian accusations about the rights of Russian speakers being violated could be the reason for the resumption of armed aggression against Ukraine.

"At the same time, it should be noted that the intensification of the armed aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine is possible only if an appropriate political decision is made at the highest level in the Kremlin," he said in a statement.

Ukraine has been raising the issue of buildup of Russian forces near the Ukraine-Russia border.

Russian military movements have raised concerns. It is being apprehensively examined whether Russia wants to send forces into Ukraine.

Senior Kremlin official Dmitry Kozak last week said Russia would be forced to defend its citizens in eastern Ukraine depending on the scale of the military conflict there.

On Friday UK Secretary of State Antony Blinken called on Russia to halt the troop buildup.

(With agency inputs)

In a possible sign that Ukraine and Russia may soon be embroiled in yet another conflict, Ukraine's defense minister said on Saturday that his country could be provoked due to Russian 'aggression'.

In a possible sign that Ukraine and Russia may soon be embroiled in yet another conflict, Ukraine's defense minister said on Saturday that his country could be provoked due to Russian 'aggression'. The relations between the two countries are on the boil due to the situation in the conflict area of Ukraine's eastern Donbas region. The region has a sizeable Russian-speaking population. The minister, Andrii Taran, said Russian accusations about the rights of Russian speakers being violated could be the reason for the resumption of armed aggression against Ukraine. "At the same time, it should be noted that the intensification of the armed aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine is possible only if an appropriate political decision is made at the highest level in the Kremlin," he said in a statement. Ukraine has been raising the issue of buildup of Russian forces near the Ukraine-Russia border. Russian military movements have raised concerns. It is being apprehensively examined whether Russia wants to send forces into Ukraine. Senior Kremlin official Dmitry Kozak last week said Russia would be forced to defend its citizens in eastern Ukraine depending on the scale of the military conflict there. On Friday UK Secretary of State Antony Blinken called on Russia to halt the troop buildup. (With agency inputs)

Ukraine: Can be provoked due to Russian 'aggression'

US President Joe Biden is due to speak on Sunday with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zekensky on phone about Russian assertiveness in the region. There are growing fears that Russian military build-up along its border with Ukraine is a preparation for an invasion. Russia has already annexed Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula in 2014.

Biden's conversation with Zelensky, a show of support, will come just days after Biden's warning to Russia against invading Ukraine. The USA and number of western countries have threatened Russia of severe consequences if it invades Ukraine.

There have been allegations from Russian quarters that Ukraine's manoeuvres were threatening Russian security. But this is widely seen as an excuse-building exercise to justify possible aggression.

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Using some of his most direct language yet, Biden said Friday, "I'm not going to negotiate here in public, but we made it clear he cannot -- I'll emphasize, cannot -- invade Ukraine."

The US leader added, in remarks to reporters during a holiday stay in Delaware, that he had "made it clear to President Putin that we will have severe sanctions, we will increase our presence in Europe, with NATO allies" if Russia invades Ukraine.

The White House said that in Sunday's call with Zelensky, Biden will "reaffirm US support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, discuss Russia's military build-up on Ukraine's borders, and review preparations for upcoming diplomatic engagements to help de-escalate the situation in the region."

Zelensky tweeted: "Look forward to talking again with @POTUS this Sunday to coordinate our steps for the sake of peace in Ukraine and security in Europe."

'Engage meaningfully'

Washington and its European allies accuse Russia of threatening Ukraine with a new invasion.&nbsp;

Some 100,000 Russian troops are massed near the border of the country, where Putin already seized the Crimea region in 2014 and is accused of fomenting a pro-Russian separatist war which erupted that same year in the east.

Moscow describes the troop presence as protection against the expansion of NATO, although Ukraine has not been offered membership in the military alliance.

High-ranking US and Russian officials are due to sit down on January 9 and 10 in Geneva to discuss the crisis.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke Friday with NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg; afterwards, Blinken urged Russia to "engage meaningfully" in the upcoming talks on the tense standoff between Moscow and Kiev.

Stoltenberg said that NATO was "united" and "prepared for dialogue."

In Thursday's call, Biden warned Putin against invading Ukraine, while the Kremlin leader said anti-Moscow sanctions would be a "colossal mistake."

After a 50-minute phone call -- their second in just over three weeks -- both presidents indicated support for further diplomacy.

Putin was "pleased" overall with the talks, foreign policy adviser Yury Ushakov told reporters.&nbsp;

A senior US official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the tone "was serious and substantive."

But there was no disguising the depth of disagreement -- or the dangerously high stakes on the fringes of eastern Europe.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden is due to speak on Sunday with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zekensky on phone about Russian assertiveness in the region. There are growing fears that Russian military build-up along its border with Ukraine is a preparation for an invasion.

US President Joe Biden is due to speak on Sunday with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zekensky on phone about Russian assertiveness in the region. There are growing fears that Russian military build-up along its border with Ukraine is a preparation for an invasion. Russia has already annexed Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula in 2014. Biden's conversation with Zelensky, a show of support, will come just days after Biden's warning to Russia against invading Ukraine. The USA and number of western countries have threatened Russia of severe consequences if it invades Ukraine. There have been allegations from Russian quarters that Ukraine's manoeuvres were threatening Russian security. But this is widely seen as an excuse-building exercise to justify possible aggression. × Using some of his most direct language yet, Biden said Friday, "I'm not going to negotiate here in public, but we made it clear he cannot -- I'll emphasize, cannot -- invade Ukraine." The US leader added, in remarks to reporters during a holiday stay in Delaware, that he had "made it clear to President Putin that we will have severe sanctions, we will increase our presence in Europe, with NATO allies" if Russia invades Ukraine. The White House said that in Sunday's call with Zelensky, Biden will "reaffirm US support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, discuss Russia's military build-up on Ukraine's borders, and review preparations for upcoming diplomatic engagements to help de-escalate the situation in the region." Zelensky tweeted: "Look forward to talking again with @POTUS this Sunday to coordinate our steps for the sake of peace in Ukraine and security in Europe." 'Engage meaningfully' Washington and its European allies accuse Russia of threatening Ukraine with a new invasion. Some 100,000 Russian troops are massed near the border of the country, where Putin already seized the Crimea region in 2014 and is accused of fomenting a pro-Russian separatist war which erupted that same year in the east. Moscow describes the troop presence as protection against the expansion of NATO, although Ukraine has not been offered membership in the military alliance. High-ranking US and Russian officials are due to sit down on January 9 and 10 in Geneva to discuss the crisis. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke Friday with NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg; afterwards, Blinken urged Russia to "engage meaningfully" in the upcoming talks on the tense standoff between Moscow and Kiev. Stoltenberg said that NATO was "united" and "prepared for dialogue." In Thursday's call, Biden warned Putin against invading Ukraine, while the Kremlin leader said anti-Moscow sanctions would be a "colossal mistake." After a 50-minute phone call -- their second in just over three weeks -- both presidents indicated support for further diplomacy. Putin was "pleased" overall with the talks, foreign policy adviser Yury Ushakov told reporters. A senior US official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the tone "was serious and substantive." But there was no disguising the depth of disagreement -- or the dangerously high stakes on the fringes of eastern Europe. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden to speak with Ukraine president on heels of warning to Russia against invasion

Thousands of Russian troops have reportedly withdrawn from the Ukraine border after conducting month-long drills, as tensions remain high amid fears that Moscow may be planning an attack.

Russian troops conclude month-long military drills near Ukraine, return to base

Russia on Friday accused the United States of making ''aggressive moves'' in the Black Sea.

Calling the activity by the US military ''aggressive,'' the Russian defence ministry said it ''posed a threat to regional and strategic stability.''

The Black Sea is a sensitive security zone for Moscow as it is near the Crimean peninsula, which Russia annexed from Ukraine in 2014.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed as inflammatory a media report suggesting Moscow might be weighing an attack on Ukraine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-advances-bill-to-aid-ukraine-in-its-struggle-with-russia-pressure-nord-stream-2-379142">Also read |&nbsp;US advances bill to aid Ukraine in its struggle with Russia, pressure Nord Stream 2</a>

''Such headlines do nothing more than pointlessly and groundlessly fuel tensions. Russia does not pose a threat to anyone,'' said Peskov.

''We have repeatedly said that the movement of our armed forces on our territory should not be a cause for concern,'' he added.

Previously, a US naval command ship entered the Black Sea as part of NATO manoeuvres. The move was warmly received by Ukraine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whats-happening-between-russia-and-ukraine-heres-a-cheat-sheet-377164">Also read |&nbsp;What's happening between Russia and Ukraine? Here's a cheat-sheet</a>

Pentagon spokesman John Kirby had said the US is monitoring the Ukraine region closely amid reports of a new buildup of Russian troops on the country's border.

"We're going to continue to consult with allies and partners on this issue... As we've said before, any escalatory or aggressive actions would be of great concern to the United States," Kirby said.

"We continue to support de-escalation in the region and a diplomatic resolution to the conflict in eastern Ukraine," he added.

Washington has refused to accept Russia's claim on Crimea and has delivered lethal military aid to Kiev for use in fighting the separatists.

Russian-backed separatists took control of Ukraine's eastern Donbass region in 2014. Soldiers on both sides continue to be regularly killed in the conflict there.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Friday accused the United States of making ''aggressive moves'' in the Black Sea. Calling the activity by the US military ''aggressive,'' the Russian defence ministry said it ''posed a threat to regional and strategic stability.

Russia on Friday accused the United States of making ''aggressive moves'' in the Black Sea. Calling the activity by the US military ''aggressive,'' the Russian defence ministry said it ''posed a threat to regional and strategic stability.'' The Black Sea is a sensitive security zone for Moscow as it is near the Crimean peninsula, which Russia annexed from Ukraine in 2014. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed as inflammatory a media report suggesting Moscow might be weighing an attack on Ukraine. Also read | US advances bill to aid Ukraine in its struggle with Russia, pressure Nord Stream 2 ''Such headlines do nothing more than pointlessly and groundlessly fuel tensions. Russia does not pose a threat to anyone,'' said Peskov. ''We have repeatedly said that the movement of our armed forces on our territory should not be a cause for concern,'' he added. Previously, a US naval command ship entered the Black Sea as part of NATO manoeuvres. The move was warmly received by Ukraine. Also read | What's happening between Russia and Ukraine? Here's a cheat-sheet Pentagon spokesman John Kirby had said the US is monitoring the Ukraine region closely amid reports of a new buildup of Russian troops on the country's border. "We're going to continue to consult with allies and partners on this issue... As we've said before, any escalatory or aggressive actions would be of great concern to the United States," Kirby said. "We continue to support de-escalation in the region and a diplomatic resolution to the conflict in eastern Ukraine," he added. Washington has refused to accept Russia's claim on Crimea and has delivered lethal military aid to Kiev for use in fighting the separatists. Russian-backed separatists took control of Ukraine's eastern Donbass region in 2014. Soldiers on both sides continue to be regularly killed in the conflict there. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia accuses US of making 'aggressive moves' in Black Sea

Satellite images show a Russian military buildup near the Ukraine border. Vladimir Putin marked National Unity Day in Sevastopol & declared 'Crimea will forever be part of Russia'. Palki Sharma gets you a detailed report.

Gravitas: Putin says 'Crimea will forever be part of Russia'

Kremlin said on Sunday that 'provocations' like UK warship entering into what Russia claims are its territorial waters near Crimea demand tough response.

Russian President Vladmir Putin said on Wednesday that Russia may have sunk the British warship. Russia had fired warning shots and had dropped bombs in the path of the warship to chase it away from the Black Sea.

Russia had chellenged British warship HMS Defender's right to sail through waters near Crimea. UK had maintained that it had every right to do so

Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 but most of the world still recognises it as part of Ukraine.

Dmitry Peskov, Kremlin spokesperson, speaking on state television on Sunday, said the incident was "a well-planned provocation" and that Putin's reaction had made it clear that any repetition would provoke a reponse.

"It is obvious that the reaction will of course be tough," Peskov said.

He echoed Putin's accusation that Washington and London had planned the episode together.

"I think that our intelligence agencies of course know who took that decision. But, of course, I think the essence of such operations is planned by all the same senior comrades - those over the ocean," Peskov said.

Tensions are running high as Ukraine and NATO countries hold military drills in the Black Sea, monitored by Russia's Black Sea Fleet.

Peskov said the North Atlantic Treaty Organization was a destabilising element that led to confrontation, but that Russia remained open to dialogue with the body.

(With inputs from agencies)

Kremlin said on Sunday that 'provocations' like UK warship entering into what Russia claims are its territorial waters near Crimea demand tough response. Russian President Vladmir Putin said on Wednesday that Russia may have sunk the British warship.

Kremlin said on Sunday that 'provocations' like UK warship entering into what Russia claims are its territorial waters near Crimea demand tough response. Russian President Vladmir Putin said on Wednesday that Russia may have sunk the British warship. Russia had fired warning shots and had dropped bombs in the path of the warship to chase it away from the Black Sea. Russia had chellenged British warship HMS Defender's right to sail through waters near Crimea. UK had maintained that it had every right to do so Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 but most of the world still recognises it as part of Ukraine. Dmitry Peskov, Kremlin spokesperson, speaking on state television on Sunday, said the incident was "a well-planned provocation" and that Putin's reaction had made it clear that any repetition would provoke a reponse. "It is obvious that the reaction will of course be tough," Peskov said. He echoed Putin's accusation that Washington and London had planned the episode together. "I think that our intelligence agencies of course know who took that decision. But, of course, I think the essence of such operations is planned by all the same senior comrades - those over the ocean," Peskov said. Tensions are running high as Ukraine and NATO countries hold military drills in the Black Sea, monitored by Russia's Black Sea Fleet. Peskov said the North Atlantic Treaty Organization was a destabilising element that led to confrontation, but that Russia remained open to dialogue with the body. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia: 'Provocations' like British warship incident demand tough response

Russia said on Saturday that its warplanes practised bombing enemy ships in the Black Sea during training exercises. There is tension between Russia and the West over NATO drills in the region and recent incident with a British warship.

Last week, Russia challenged right of British navy warship HMS Defender to pass through waters near Crimean. UK maintained that it has every right to do so. Russia has annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. However, most of the world still considers Crimea to be part of Ukraine.

Russia assertively maintained that the vessel had illegally entered its territorial waters. It also accused London of "provocation"

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Moscow has said it could bomb British naval vessels if there are more such actions by the British navy off Crimea.

On Saturday, Russia's Black Sea Fleet said warplanes from its aviation units and those of the southern military district had taken part in training drills.

"Aircraft crews ... conducted training flights over the Black Sea, practicing missile and bombing strikes against simulated enemy ships," it was quoted as saying by the RIA news agency.

The drills involved aircraft including Sukhoi Su-30SM multi-purpose fighters, Sukhoi Su-24M bombers, Sukhoi Su-34 fighter-bombers and Sukhoi Su-27 fighter jets, the report said.

The exercise comes as NATO, Ukraine and allies conduct their large-scale Sea Breeze drills in the region.

Those drills are set to last two weeks and involve about 5,000 military personnel from NATO and other allies, and around 30 ships and 40 aircraft, with U.S. missile destroyer USS Ross and the U.S. Marine Corps taking part.

Moscow had called for the exercise to be cancelled and the Russian defence ministry has said it will react to safeguard national security if necessary.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia said on Saturday that its warplanes practised bombing enemy ships in the Black Sea during training exercises. There is tension between Russia and the West over NATO drills in the region and recent incident with a British warship.

Russia said on Saturday that its warplanes practised bombing enemy ships in the Black Sea during training exercises. There is tension between Russia and the West over NATO drills in the region and recent incident with a British warship. Last week, Russia challenged right of British navy warship HMS Defender to pass through waters near Crimean. UK maintained that it has every right to do so. Russia has annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. However, most of the world still considers Crimea to be part of Ukraine. Russia assertively maintained that the vessel had illegally entered its territorial waters. It also accused London of "provocation" Also Read | Putin accuses US of involvement in British warship row with Russia Moscow has said it could bomb British naval vessels if there are more such actions by the British navy off Crimea. On Saturday, Russia's Black Sea Fleet said warplanes from its aviation units and those of the southern military district had taken part in training drills. "Aircraft crews ... conducted training flights over the Black Sea, practicing missile and bombing strikes against simulated enemy ships," it was quoted as saying by the RIA news agency. The drills involved aircraft including Sukhoi Su-30SM multi-purpose fighters, Sukhoi Su-24M bombers, Sukhoi Su-34 fighter-bombers and Sukhoi Su-27 fighter jets, the report said. The exercise comes as NATO, Ukraine and allies conduct their large-scale Sea Breeze drills in the region. Those drills are set to last two weeks and involve about 5,000 military personnel from NATO and other allies, and around 30 ships and 40 aircraft, with U.S. missile destroyer USS Ross and the U.S. Marine Corps taking part. Moscow had called for the exercise to be cancelled and the Russian defence ministry has said it will react to safeguard national security if necessary. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian planes practise bombing ships in Black Sea

Russia checked the readiness of its air defence system in Crimea, the peninsula it annexed from Ukraine in 2014, as Ukraine and NATO countries held military drills in the Black Sea, the Interfax news agency reported on Tuesday. 
 
The Sea Breeze military drills follow a rise in tensions between NATO and Moscow, which said last week it had fired warning shots and dropped bombs in the path of a British warship to chase it out of Black Sea waters off the coast of Crimea. Britain rejected Russia's account of the incident.

In the military exercise in the Black Sea and southern Ukraine, more than&nbsp;30 countries are taking part, despite Russian calls to cancel the drills.

Russia says Crimea is its territory, but the peninsula is internationally recognised as part of Ukraine.

Russia's embassy in Washington called last week for the drills to be cancelled, and the Russian defence ministry said it would react if necessary to protect its own national security.

Sea Breeze 2021 will last two weeks and involve about 5,000 military personnel from NATO and other allies, and around 30 ships and 40 aircraft. US missile destroyer USS Ross and the US Marine Corps will take part.

Ukraine says the main goal is to gain experience in joint actions during multinational peacekeeping and security operations.

Relations between Kyiv and Moscow plummeted after Russia seized Crimea and over Russia's support for a separatist rebellion in eastern Ukraine.

Tension rose again this year when Russia massed troops on the border with Ukraine, where some of them remain along with their equipment.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia checked the readiness of its air defence system in Crimea, the peninsula it annexed from Ukraine in 2014, as Ukraine and NATO countries held military drills in the Black Sea, the Interfax news agency reported on Tuesday.

Russia checked the readiness of its air defence system in Crimea, the peninsula it annexed from Ukraine in 2014, as Ukraine and NATO countries held military drills in the Black Sea, the Interfax news agency reported on Tuesday. The Sea Breeze military drills follow a rise in tensions between NATO and Moscow, which said last week it had fired warning shots and dropped bombs in the path of a British warship to chase it out of Black Sea waters off the coast of Crimea. Britain rejected Russia's account of the incident. In the military exercise in the Black Sea and southern Ukraine, more than 30 countries are taking part, despite Russian calls to cancel the drills. Russia says Crimea is its territory, but the peninsula is internationally recognised as part of Ukraine. Russia's embassy in Washington called last week for the drills to be cancelled, and the Russian defence ministry said it would react if necessary to protect its own national security. Sea Breeze 2021 will last two weeks and involve about 5,000 military personnel from NATO and other allies, and around 30 ships and 40 aircraft. US missile destroyer USS Ross and the US Marine Corps will take part. Ukraine says the main goal is to gain experience in joint actions during multinational peacekeeping and security operations. Relations between Kyiv and Moscow plummeted after Russia seized Crimea and over Russia's support for a separatist rebellion in eastern Ukraine. Tension rose again this year when Russia massed troops on the border with Ukraine, where some of them remain along with their equipment. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia checks Crimea air defence system as Ukraine, US start Black Sea drills: Interfax

Russia has warned Britain against&nbsp;unacceptable ''provocation''&nbsp;in the Black Sea after&nbsp;it&nbsp;fired warning shots at a British navy destroyer for&nbsp;violating the country's territorial waters,&nbsp;but the UK denied the incident had occurred.

Incidents involving Western aircraft and ships are not uncommon at&nbsp;Russia's borders, especially during heightened tensions with Washington, Brussels and London, but rarely result in open fire.

Britain said Russia was sowing inaccuracies and disputed Russia's account, saying no warning shots had been fired and that no bombs had been dropped in the path of the Royal Navy destroyer Defender.

British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab told reporters during a visit to Singapore: "No shots were fired at HMS Defender."

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"The Royal Navy ship was conducting innocent passage through Ukrainian territorial waters. We were doing so in accordance with international law and the Russian characterisation is predictably inaccurate."

Russia's foreign ministry summoned ambassador Deborah Bronnert to deliver a "tough demarche" - diplomatic jargon for a telling off - and spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accused London of "barefaced lies".

"We believe it was a deliberate and premeditated provocation," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said of the incident, in which Moscow said it fired warning shots and dropped bombs in the path of the British destroyer.

"In the event of a repeat of unacceptable provocative action - if those actions go too far, no options can be ruled out in terms of legally defending Russia's borders," Peskov told reporters.

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Wednesday slammed&nbsp;Russia's "aggressive and provocative policy" in the Black Sea region, describing it on Twitter as a "constant threat" to Kiev and its allies.&nbsp;

At the height of tensions over Ukraine this spring after&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;built up troops on its border and in Crimea, Moscow stepped up military exercises in the Black Sea and Washington warned it would send two warships.

Those ships were never dispatched, as&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;pulled back its forces and the tensions eased.

The Black Sea, which Russia uses to project its power in the Mediterranean, has for centuries been a flashpoint between Russia and its competitors such as Turkey, France, Britain, and the United States.

Russia seized and annexed the Crimea peninsula from Ukraine in 2014 and considers areas around its coast to be Russian waters. Western countries deem the Crimea to be part of Ukraine and reject Russia's claim to the seas around it.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia has warned Britain against unacceptable ''provocation'' in the Black Sea after it fired warning shots at a British navy destroyer for violating the country's territorial waters, but the UK denied the incident had occurred.

Russia has warned Britain against unacceptable ''provocation'' in the Black Sea after it fired warning shots at a British navy destroyer for violating the country's territorial waters, but the UK denied the incident had occurred. Incidents involving Western aircraft and ships are not uncommon at Russia's borders, especially during heightened tensions with Washington, Brussels and London, but rarely result in open fire. Britain said Russia was sowing inaccuracies and disputed Russia's account, saying no warning shots had been fired and that no bombs had been dropped in the path of the Royal Navy destroyer Defender. British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab told reporters during a visit to Singapore: "No shots were fired at HMS Defender." "The Royal Navy ship was conducting innocent passage through Ukrainian territorial waters. We were doing so in accordance with international law and the Russian characterisation is predictably inaccurate." Russia's foreign ministry summoned ambassador Deborah Bronnert to deliver a "tough demarche" - diplomatic jargon for a telling off - and spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accused London of "barefaced lies". "We believe it was a deliberate and premeditated provocation," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said of the incident, in which Moscow said it fired warning shots and dropped bombs in the path of the British destroyer. "In the event of a repeat of unacceptable provocative action - if those actions go too far, no options can be ruled out in terms of legally defending Russia's borders," Peskov told reporters. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Wednesday slammed Russia's "aggressive and provocative policy" in the Black Sea region, describing it on Twitter as a "constant threat" to Kiev and its allies. At the height of tensions over Ukraine this spring after Russia built up troops on its border and in Crimea, Moscow stepped up military exercises in the Black Sea and Washington warned it would send two warships. Those ships were never dispatched, as Russia pulled back its forces and the tensions eased. The Black Sea, which Russia uses to project its power in the Mediterranean, has for centuries been a flashpoint between Russia and its competitors such as Turkey, France, Britain, and the United States. Russia seized and annexed the Crimea peninsula from Ukraine in 2014 and considers areas around its coast to be Russian waters. Western countries deem the Crimea to be part of Ukraine and reject Russia's claim to the seas around it. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia warns Britain against unacceptable 'provocation' in Black Sea

According to American media reports, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will visit Ukraine amid heightened tensions with Russia over a military buildup in the region. A Russian troop buildup in recent weeks near Ukraine's border and in occupied Crimea has raised concerns of an escalation of the conflict in Kyiv and in the West.

Reports: US top diplomat Antony Blinken to visit Ukraine next week

Blooming peach gardens near Ternovka village on the Southern coast of Crimea peninsula that Russia annexed from Ukraine in 2014, became an excellent backdrop for a costume ball held here for the first time on Saturday (April 24).

Blooming peach garden becomes central stage for costumed ball in Crimea

After holding a massive military drill in Crimea Russia has ordered its top army command to began the returning troops to their permanent bases, saying it had successfully completed a "snap inspection"of forces in its south and west, near the border with Ukraine.

Russia orders top command to begin returning to bases after drills in Crimea

Russia on Friday began the drawdown of troops that were running drills near Ukraine borders, said the Russian defence ministry. This is likely to calm heightened tensions between Russia and the West over Moscow's troop buildup on Russia-Ukraine border.

"Military units and formations are currently marching to railway loading stations and airfields, and loading onto landing ships, railway platforms and military transport aircraft," the ministry said in a statement carried by Russian news agencies.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Thursday that tens of thousands of Russian troops deployed to southern and western Russia for exercise would be returning to their bases.

The Russian buildup came as fighting between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russia eastern separatists increased in last few months.

Both NATO and Kiev welcomed Russia's announcement of the drawdown, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky saying "the reduction of troops on our border proportionally reduces tension".

A NATO official said any "de-escalation by Russia" would be important, adding: "NATO remains vigilant and we will continue to closely monitor Russia's unjustified military buildup in and around Ukraine."

The United States had said it was "looking for action" on the troop withdrawal.

Uptick in separatist conflict

Hours after the end to the exercises was announced, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Zelensky was welcome in Moscow anytime to discuss bilateral relations, but that the Ukrainian leader should discuss the surge in fighting with separatist leaders.

Russia said it had sent tens of thousands of troops to the country's south and west and to Crimea, which Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014, for a series of military drills.

It also ramped up military exercises in the Black Sea earlier this week, with more than 20 Russian warships participating in joint drills with air force fighter jets.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Friday began the drawdown of troops that were running drills near Ukraine borders, said the Russian defence ministry. This is likely to calm heightened tensions between Russia and the West over Moscow's troop buildup on Russia-Ukraine border.

Russia on Friday began the drawdown of troops that were running drills near Ukraine borders, said the Russian defence ministry. This is likely to calm heightened tensions between Russia and the West over Moscow's troop buildup on Russia-Ukraine border. "Military units and formations are currently marching to railway loading stations and airfields, and loading onto landing ships, railway platforms and military transport aircraft," the ministry said in a statement carried by Russian news agencies. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Thursday that tens of thousands of Russian troops deployed to southern and western Russia for exercise would be returning to their bases. The Russian buildup came as fighting between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russia eastern separatists increased in last few months. Both NATO and Kiev welcomed Russia's announcement of the drawdown, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky saying "the reduction of troops on our border proportionally reduces tension". A NATO official said any "de-escalation by Russia" would be important, adding: "NATO remains vigilant and we will continue to closely monitor Russia's unjustified military buildup in and around Ukraine." The United States had said it was "looking for action" on the troop withdrawal. Uptick in separatist conflict Hours after the end to the exercises was announced, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Zelensky was welcome in Moscow anytime to discuss bilateral relations, but that the Ukrainian leader should discuss the surge in fighting with separatist leaders. Russia said it had sent tens of thousands of troops to the country's south and west and to Crimea, which Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014, for a series of military drills. It also ramped up military exercises in the Black Sea earlier this week, with more than 20 Russian warships participating in joint drills with air force fighter jets. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia begins withdrawing troops from Ukraine borders

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Thursday said that the country will withdraw troops from military drills near Ukraine.&nbsp;

"I believe that the goals of snap checks have been reached," Shoigu said during exercises in Russia-annexed Crimea, as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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He also added that he asked the troops involved in the exercise to start returning to "permanent bases" the following day.&nbsp;

Earlier, Shoigu via a helicopter oversaw the number of security personnel and equipment deployed in Crimea on Thursday.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-to-allies-west-must-act-now-to-ensure-no-new-russia-military-offensive-379190">Ukraine to allies: West must act now to ensure no new Russia military offensive</a>

He also checked the readiness of the naval and ground troops, a news agency Reuters report said.&nbsp;

Interfax news agency reported that the drills involved over 10,000 soldiers and more than 40 warships.

The drills come amid the escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine's Western allies, who have expressed concerns about a build-up of Russian forces on the border and military exercises in Crimea.

Russian news agency last week reported mentioning the defence ministry that Kremlin aims to close parts of the Black Sea to foreign military official ships for six months from Saturday.

Ukraine's foreign minister earlier on Thursday asked Western partners to impose new sanctions on Kremlin, including removing the country from the global SWIFT bank payments system. &nbsp;

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Thursday said that the country will withdraw troops from military drills near Ukraine. "I believe that the goals of snap checks have been reached," Shoigu said during exercises in Russia-annexed Crimea, as quoted by news agency AFP.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Thursday said that the country will withdraw troops from military drills near Ukraine. "I believe that the goals of snap checks have been reached," Shoigu said during exercises in Russia-annexed Crimea, as quoted by news agency AFP. Watch | He also added that he asked the troops involved in the exercise to start returning to "permanent bases" the following day. Earlier, Shoigu via a helicopter oversaw the number of security personnel and equipment deployed in Crimea on Thursday. Also read | Ukraine to allies: West must act now to ensure no new Russia military offensive He also checked the readiness of the naval and ground troops, a news agency Reuters report said. Interfax news agency reported that the drills involved over 10,000 soldiers and more than 40 warships. The drills come amid the escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine's Western allies, who have expressed concerns about a build-up of Russian forces on the border and military exercises in Crimea. Russian news agency last week reported mentioning the defence ministry that Kremlin aims to close parts of the Black Sea to foreign military official ships for six months from Saturday. Ukraine's foreign minister earlier on Thursday asked Western partners to impose new sanctions on Kremlin, including removing the country from the global SWIFT bank payments system.

Russia to withdraw troops from military drills in Crimea

India advocated for peaceful dialogue over the situation in Crimea at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) by saying individual relations 'stand own merit'.

India calls for dialogue over Crimea at United Nations Security Council

India on Wednesday advocated peaceful dialogue -- on the lines of the Arria formula -- on the situation in Crimea at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) follow-up meeting that was held earlier on March 12, 2021.

Speaking at the UNSC, India's Deputy Permanent Representative-Political Coordinator to the UN R Ravindra said that India has advocated political and diplomatic solutions that protect the legitimate interests of all countries in the region and ensure long-term peace and stability in Europe and beyond.

The path forward can only be through peaceful dialogue for a lasting solution acceptable to all concerned.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-never-accept-russias-occupation-of-crimea-g7-371383">We will never accept Russia's occupation of Crimea: G7</a>

"I wish to clarify that India's relations with countries in the region stand on their own merit. They are not affected by any individual issue or crisis or external factors," he said.

While thanking the Russian delegation for organising this follow-up meeting, he cautioned, "Allow me to also place on record our reservations on this format of meeting as it has been misused in the past."

This was the second Arria-formula meeting on Crimea in five days.

Wednesday meeting was a follow-up to the 12 March high-level Arria-formula meeting on Crimea organised by Council members Estonia, France, Ireland, Norway, the UK, and the US.

As per Russia, the meeting's objective was to provide comprehensive information on the situation in Crimea from current residents of Crimea.

After the 2014 referendum, Crimea (Russian-speaking province of Ukraine) subsequently acceded to Russia.

Council members whose positions are closely aligned with that of Ukraine have used the Arria-formula format to promote discussions on different aspects of the situation in Crimea starting in March 2014.

Since then, these meetings have been held each March on the anniversary of the Russian annexation of Crimea. They have usually been organised jointly by European members of the Council and the US, in partnership with Ukraine. Most Council members have been generally supportive of holding such meetings.

 
&nbsp;

India on Wednesday advocated peaceful dialogue -- on the lines of the Arria formula -- on the situation in Crimea at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) follow-up meeting that was held earlier on March 12, 2021.

India on Wednesday advocated peaceful dialogue -- on the lines of the Arria formula -- on the situation in Crimea at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) follow-up meeting that was held earlier on March 12, 2021. Speaking at the UNSC, India's Deputy Permanent Representative-Political Coordinator to the UN R Ravindra said that India has advocated political and diplomatic solutions that protect the legitimate interests of all countries in the region and ensure long-term peace and stability in Europe and beyond. The path forward can only be through peaceful dialogue for a lasting solution acceptable to all concerned. Also read | We will never accept Russia's occupation of Crimea: G7 "I wish to clarify that India's relations with countries in the region stand on their own merit. They are not affected by any individual issue or crisis or external factors," he said. While thanking the Russian delegation for organising this follow-up meeting, he cautioned, "Allow me to also place on record our reservations on this format of meeting as it has been misused in the past." This was the second Arria-formula meeting on Crimea in five days. Wednesday meeting was a follow-up to the 12 March high-level Arria-formula meeting on Crimea organised by Council members Estonia, France, Ireland, Norway, the UK, and the US. As per Russia, the meeting's objective was to provide comprehensive information on the situation in Crimea from current residents of Crimea. After the 2014 referendum, Crimea (Russian-speaking province of Ukraine) subsequently acceded to Russia. Council members whose positions are closely aligned with that of Ukraine have used the Arria-formula format to promote discussions on different aspects of the situation in Crimea starting in March 2014. Since then, these meetings have been held each March on the anniversary of the Russian annexation of Crimea. They have usually been organised jointly by European members of the Council and the US, in partnership with Ukraine. Most Council members have been generally supportive of holding such meetings.

India advocates peaceful dialogue on Crimea at UNSC meeting

Asking Moscow to respect "international obligations", the G7 nations on Thursday refused to recognise Russia's occupation of Crimea.&nbsp;

"We unequivocally denounce Russia's temporary occupation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the City of Sevastopol. Russia's attempts to legitimise it are not, and will not, be recognised," the G7 nations in a statement marking the seventh anniversary of the takeover of Crimea said.&nbsp;

It also asked Moscow to allow access to "international monitors" and release all "those who are unjustly detained" in an indirect reference to top Kremlin opposition leader Alexei Navalny and hundreds of others recently jailed.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-us-wont-accept-russias-crimea-annexation-366505">Biden says US won't accept Russia's Crimea annexation</a>

The statement comes amid the fighting between Russian-backed separatists in Ukraine's east that has damaged the ceasefire agreed upon last year.&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday urged for a summit with European nations and suggested a direct meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin to address the crisis.&nbsp;

Last month, US President Joe Biden said that Washington would never recognise Moscow's annexation of Crimea and expressed solidarity with Ukraine against "Russia's aggressive acts".&nbsp;

"The United States does not and will never recognise Russia's purported annexation of the peninsula, and we will stand with Ukraine against Russia's aggressive acts," Biden had said.

Biden on Wednesday also described Putin as a "killer".&nbsp;

Asking Moscow to respect "international obligations", the G7 nations on Thursday refused to recognise Russia's occupation of Crimea. "We unequivocally denounce Russia's temporary occupation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the City of Sevastopol.

Asking Moscow to respect "international obligations", the G7 nations on Thursday refused to recognise Russia's occupation of Crimea. "We unequivocally denounce Russia's temporary occupation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the City of Sevastopol. Russia's attempts to legitimise it are not, and will not, be recognised," the G7 nations in a statement marking the seventh anniversary of the takeover of Crimea said. It also asked Moscow to allow access to "international monitors" and release all "those who are unjustly detained" in an indirect reference to top Kremlin opposition leader Alexei Navalny and hundreds of others recently jailed. Also read | Biden says US won't accept Russia's Crimea annexation The statement comes amid the fighting between Russian-backed separatists in Ukraine's east that has damaged the ceasefire agreed upon last year. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday urged for a summit with European nations and suggested a direct meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin to address the crisis. Last month, US President Joe Biden said that Washington would never recognise Moscow's annexation of Crimea and expressed solidarity with Ukraine against "Russia's aggressive acts". "The United States does not and will never recognise Russia's purported annexation of the peninsula, and we will stand with Ukraine against Russia's aggressive acts," Biden had said. Biden on Wednesday also described Putin as a "killer".

We will never accept Russia's occupation of Crimea: G7

US President Joe Biden has said the United States would "never" accept Russia's annexation of part of Ukraine -- which happened seven years ago.

Biden's statement came on Friday -- on the anniversary of the Russian invasion of Crimea.

"The United States does not and will never recognise Russia's purported annexation of the peninsula, and we will stand with Ukraine against Russia's aggressive acts," he said.

"The United States continues to stand with Ukraine and its allies and partners today, as it has from the beginning of this conflict. On this somber anniversary, we reaffirm a simple truth: Crimea is Ukraine," he added.

Russian troops seized the Crimean peninsula on the Black Sea coast of Ukraine in 2014 and President Vladimir Putin then incorporated the region under Moscow's rule.

At the same time, the Kremlin backed an armed uprising in eastern Ukraine where pro-Russian separatists declared independence, sparking a war that continues to simmer, with swaths of territory remaining out of the Ukrainian government's control.

The latest casualties -- in the latest fighting -- came as Kiev accused Moscow and the&nbsp;separatists of ramping up attacks in violation of a ceasefire agreed in July, 2020.

US President Joe Biden has said the United States would "never" accept Russia's annexation of part of Ukraine -- which happened seven years ago. Biden's statement came on Friday -- on the anniversary of the Russian invasion of Crimea.

US President Joe Biden has said the United States would "never" accept Russia's annexation of part of Ukraine -- which happened seven years ago. Biden's statement came on Friday -- on the anniversary of the Russian invasion of Crimea. "The United States does not and will never recognise Russia's purported annexation of the peninsula, and we will stand with Ukraine against Russia's aggressive acts," he said. "The United States continues to stand with Ukraine and its allies and partners today, as it has from the beginning of this conflict. On this somber anniversary, we reaffirm a simple truth: Crimea is Ukraine," he added. Russian troops seized the Crimean peninsula on the Black Sea coast of Ukraine in 2014 and President Vladimir Putin then incorporated the region under Moscow's rule. At the same time, the Kremlin backed an armed uprising in eastern Ukraine where pro-Russian separatists declared independence, sparking a war that continues to simmer, with swaths of territory remaining out of the Ukrainian government's control. The latest casualties -- in the latest fighting -- came as Kiev accused Moscow and the separatists of ramping up attacks in violation of a ceasefire agreed in July, 2020.

Biden says US won't accept Russia's Crimea annexation

Russian President Vladimir Putin opened a newly constructed part of Tavrida road in the annexed&nbsp;Crimea&nbsp;on Thursday.

Putin took a ride on the new road together with the main technical expert of the constructor company. In one of his comments, Putin suggested that the road should be equipped with more turnoffs for those who come to the seaside.

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The construction of Tavrida road, linking main&nbsp;Crimean cities, was launched in 2017 and its total length is estimated slightly over 250 km.

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During his working visit to Crimea, Vladimir Putin took part in the launch of motor traffic on the finished sections of the Taurida motorway <a href="https://t.co/1M0NDQPHl3">https://t.co/1M0NDQPHl3</a> <a href="https://t.co/umnUjmuui9">pic.twitter.com/umnUjmuui9</a>
— President of Russia (@KremlinRussia_E) <a href="https://twitter.com/KremlinRussia_E/status/1299024760962252803?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Since the beginning of the novel coronavirus outbreak in March, Vladimir Putin worked in Kremlin or Novo-Ogaryovo, rarely left Moscow.

In July he revealed the World War II memorial near the city of Rzhev, about 200 km from the Russian capital, and visited the&nbsp;Crimean port of Kerch.

Moscow annexed&nbsp;Crimea&nbsp;from Ukraine in 2014, drawing sanctions and sending relations with the West to post-Cold War lows.

Russia has spent heavily to integrate&nbsp;Crimea&nbsp;into its territory, and it has been the focus of espionage and military tensions since its annexation.

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said on Thursday that Putin's visit to&nbsp;Crimea&nbsp;was an act of violation of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Russian President Vladimir Putin opened a newly constructed part of Tavrida road in the annexed Crimea on Thursday. Putin took a ride on the new road together with the main technical expert of the constructor company.

Russian President Vladimir Putin opened a newly constructed part of Tavrida road in the annexed Crimea on Thursday. Putin took a ride on the new road together with the main technical expert of the constructor company. In one of his comments, Putin suggested that the road should be equipped with more turnoffs for those who come to the seaside. The construction of Tavrida road, linking main Crimean cities, was launched in 2017 and its total length is estimated slightly over 250 km. During his working visit to Crimea, Vladimir Putin took part in the launch of motor traffic on the finished sections of the Taurida motorway https://t.co/1M0NDQPHl3 pic.twitter.com/umnUjmuui9 — President of Russia (@KremlinRussia_E) August 27, 2020 × Since the beginning of the novel coronavirus outbreak in March, Vladimir Putin worked in Kremlin or Novo-Ogaryovo, rarely left Moscow. In July he revealed the World War II memorial near the city of Rzhev, about 200 km from the Russian capital, and visited the Crimean port of Kerch. Moscow annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014, drawing sanctions and sending relations with the West to post-Cold War lows. Russia has spent heavily to integrate Crimea into its territory, and it has been the focus of espionage and military tensions since its annexation. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said on Thursday that Putin's visit to Crimea was an act of violation of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Putin drives car in annexed Crimea during rare trip outside Moscow

Russian President Vladimir Putin opened a newly constructed part of Tavrida road in the annexed Crimea on Thursday (August 27).

Russian President Vladimir Putin on January 9 oversaw military exercises from a naval vessel in the Black Sea near Crimea, including the test launch of a hypersonic air-launched Kinzhal missile. A pair of MiG-31K interceptor jets test fired the Kinzhal (Dagger) missile at a target on a military test site. The exercise involved several navy vessels. #WION #Russia #Putin #BlackSea #Crimea

Your Story: Russia's Putin oversees hypersonic missile test in Crimea

President Vladimir Putin Monday stood in the driver’s cabin of a train for the official opening of a railway bridge that links annexed Crimea to southern Russia. #Russia #SouthernRussia #Vladimir Putin #Crimea

Putin takes first train across Crimea bridge

President Vladimir Putin on Monday opened a rail route linking Russia's two biggest cities to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apple-taking-a-deeper-look-at-map-policies-after-calling-crimea-part-of-russia-265344">Crimea</a>, which Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014, and said it proved that the country could deliver on giant infrastructure projects.

Putin inaugurated the passenger service by personally taking a train across the road and rail bridge which Russian engineers built to link Crimea to southern Russia after an earlier pre-annexation route which ran through Ukraine was shut down.

"With your work, talent, determination and single-mindedness, you've shown that Russia is able to do such world-scale infrastructure projects. This is after all the longest bridge not only in Russia but also in Europe," Putin told a crowd of construction workers.

"And you've shown that we can do such large-scale projects using our own technological abilities. This, without exaggeration, gives us all confidence that we can and definitely will do similar projects in the future."

European Union sanctions ban European citizens and companies from investing in Crimea, including in the peninsula's transport and infrastructure, something which complicated Russia's drive to build the 212-billion-rouble ($3.4 billion) bridge.

Construction of the bridge, which is 19 km long, was opposed by Ukraine, which says it wants the Black Sea peninsula back. The Kremlin has ruled out returning Crimea.

The bridge, likely to be viewed as an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-slams-apple-for-calling-crimea-part-of-russia-265091">important part of Putin's legacy</a>, was designed to integrate Crimea into Russia's economy and to end its relative isolation by allowing Russia to supply it by road and rail as well as by sea and air.

Putin said the new rail route would carry around 14 million passengers and about 13 million tonnes of freight next year.

Holiday destination

Russian state television has likened the bridge to a multi-billion-dollar <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/most-indian-crew-safe-in-russian-ship-wreck-claims-dgs-192106">railway project</a> under Communist leader Leonid Brezhnev which linked Siberia to the Soviet far east.

The first passenger train carrying 530 people left St Petersburg on Monday afternoon as Putin watched via video link from a location near the bridge in Russia's Krasnodar region.

The passenger service from Moscow is due to start on Tuesday, while freight and passenger services from other Russian cities are due to commence next year.

Russia has relentlessly promoted Crimea, a favoured holiday destination in the Soviet era, as an attractive place for Russians to soak up the sun.

The contract to build the bridge was handed to Arkady Rotenberg, Putin's childhood judo partner, who controlled the lead contractor. He accompanied Putin on Monday.

President Vladimir Putin on Monday opened a rail route linking Russia's two biggest cities to Crimea, which Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014, and said it proved that the country could deliver on giant infrastructure projects.

President Vladimir Putin on Monday opened a rail route linking Russia's two biggest cities to Crimea, which Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014, and said it proved that the country could deliver on giant infrastructure projects. Putin inaugurated the passenger service by personally taking a train across the road and rail bridge which Russian engineers built to link Crimea to southern Russia after an earlier pre-annexation route which ran through Ukraine was shut down. "With your work, talent, determination and single-mindedness, you've shown that Russia is able to do such world-scale infrastructure projects. This is after all the longest bridge not only in Russia but also in Europe," Putin told a crowd of construction workers. "And you've shown that we can do such large-scale projects using our own technological abilities. This, without exaggeration, gives us all confidence that we can and definitely will do similar projects in the future." European Union sanctions ban European citizens and companies from investing in Crimea, including in the peninsula's transport and infrastructure, something which complicated Russia's drive to build the 212-billion-rouble ($3.4 billion) bridge. Construction of the bridge, which is 19 km long, was opposed by Ukraine, which says it wants the Black Sea peninsula back. The Kremlin has ruled out returning Crimea. The bridge, likely to be viewed as an important part of Putin's legacy, was designed to integrate Crimea into Russia's economy and to end its relative isolation by allowing Russia to supply it by road and rail as well as by sea and air. Putin said the new rail route would carry around 14 million passengers and about 13 million tonnes of freight next year. Holiday destination Russian state television has likened the bridge to a multi-billion-dollar railway project under Communist leader Leonid Brezhnev which linked Siberia to the Soviet far east. The first passenger train carrying 530 people left St Petersburg on Monday afternoon as Putin watched via video link from a location near the bridge in Russia's Krasnodar region. The passenger service from Moscow is due to start on Tuesday, while freight and passenger services from other Russian cities are due to commence next year. Russia has relentlessly promoted Crimea, a favoured holiday destination in the Soviet era, as an attractive place for Russians to soak up the sun. The contract to build the bridge was handed to Arkady Rotenberg, Putin's childhood judo partner, who controlled the lead contractor. He accompanied Putin on Monday.

Russian President Putin inaugurates rail route to annexed Crimea

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-ordered-ukraine-deal-to-probe-biden-us-diplomat-sondland-263493">Ukraine</a> has lashed out at Apple for showing the annexed Crimea peninsula as part of Russia, saying the US tech giant did not "give a damn" about the pain of the Ukrainian people.

Russian lawmakers said on Wednesday that Apple had complied with a demand from Moscow for Crimea to appear as Russian territory on its maps and weather apps.

"Let me explain in your terms, @Apple," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadym Prystaiko wrote on Twitter in response to the news.

"Imagine you're crying out that your design &amp; ideas, years of work &amp; piece of your heart are stolen by your worst enemy but then smb ignorant doesn't give a damn about your pain. That's how it feels when you call #Crimea a (Russian) land," he said.

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Let me explain in your terms, <a href="https://twitter.com/Apple?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Apple</a>. Imagine you're crying out that your design &amp; ideas, years of work &amp; piece of your heart are stolen by your worst enemy but then smb ignorant doesn't give a damn about your pain. That's how it feels when you call <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Crimea?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Crimea</a> a 🇷🇺 land.
— Vadym Prystaiko (@VPrystaiko) <a href="https://twitter.com/VPrystaiko/status/1199727752468930562?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"@Apple, please, please, stick to high-tech and entertainment. Global politics is not your strong side."

The Ukrainian Embassy in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-cut-spending-on-nato-budget-germany-to-pay-more-265077">United States</a> tweeted: "We guess Ukrainians (are) not giving any thanks to @Apple this #Thanksgiving!"

As of Wednesday, the Black Sea peninsula and its largest cities of Sevastopol and Simferopol were being displayed as Russian territory on Apple's apps when used in Russia.

Moscow has put pressure on foreign companies to recognise the peninsula as an integral part of its territory.

Some Ukrainians responded by calling for a boycott of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/apple-intel-file-antitrust-case-against-softbank-owned-firm-over-patent-practices-263533">Apple</a> devices.

"Let's take our gadgets onto the square, pile them up and burn them," wrote Igor Kravchuk from Kharkiv on Facebook.

Another, Yevgen Petrov from Zhytomyr, said: "Let's boycott Apple and support Android, a creator of gadgets that don't cave in to the Kremlin!"

Google does not identify Crimea as belonging to either <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympic-chief-says-will-do-everything-to-ensure-russia-at-2020-games-265073">Russia</a> or Ukraine on its maps.

However, when used in Russia, it writes Crimean placenames in Russian and shows a line along the de facto border with Ukraine.

Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 in a move condemned by most of the global community. The seizure of the peninsula helped spark a separatist uprising in eastern Ukraine that has claimed more than 13,000 lives.

EU member Lithuania backed Ukraine, with its foreign minister Linas Linkevicius tweeting: "We call on Apple to revert this ignorant standpoint as status quo has not changed in Crimea: it's still occupied by #Russia."

Russian lawmakers backed Apple's actions, however.

An MP representing Crimea in Russia's parliament, Mikhail Sheremet, told RIA Novosti news agency that Apple "doesn't want to lose the highly profitable and promising Russian market".

US President Donald Trump "should follow Apple's example and take the only correct and lawful decision to recognise Crimea's status as Russian," a lawmaker in Crimea's parliament, Alexei Chernyak, told RIA Novosti.

Russia and Apple had been in talks over the last few months, with the US giant initially trying to show Crimea as undefined territory and removing any mention of Ukraine.

Russia in November passed a law that requires phones and computers to be sold with Russian software pre-installed, although it does not enter force until June next year.

Apple has threatened to leave the Russian market over the law, since it does not sell phones with other companies' software.

Russian experts have warned that it may become impossible to buy Apple products in stores in the country.

This could mean "farewell to iPhones", warned the tabloid Komsomolskaya Pravda.

Ukraine has lashed out at Apple for showing the annexed Crimea peninsula as part of Russia, saying the US tech giant did not "give a damn" about the pain of the Ukrainian people.

Ukraine has lashed out at Apple for showing the annexed Crimea peninsula as part of Russia, saying the US tech giant did not "give a damn" about the pain of the Ukrainian people. Russian lawmakers said on Wednesday that Apple had complied with a demand from Moscow for Crimea to appear as Russian territory on its maps and weather apps. "Let me explain in your terms, @Apple," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadym Prystaiko wrote on Twitter in response to the news. "Imagine you're crying out that your design & ideas, years of work & piece of your heart are stolen by your worst enemy but then smb ignorant doesn't give a damn about your pain. That's how it feels when you call #Crimea a (Russian) land," he said. Let me explain in your terms, @Apple. Imagine you're crying out that your design & ideas, years of work & piece of your heart are stolen by your worst enemy but then smb ignorant doesn't give a damn about your pain. That's how it feels when you call #Crimea a 🇷🇺 land. — Vadym Prystaiko (@VPrystaiko) November 27, 2019 × "@Apple, please, please, stick to high-tech and entertainment. Global politics is not your strong side." The Ukrainian Embassy in the United States tweeted: "We guess Ukrainians (are) not giving any thanks to @Apple this #Thanksgiving!" As of Wednesday, the Black Sea peninsula and its largest cities of Sevastopol and Simferopol were being displayed as Russian territory on Apple's apps when used in Russia. Moscow has put pressure on foreign companies to recognise the peninsula as an integral part of its territory. Some Ukrainians responded by calling for a boycott of Apple devices. "Let's take our gadgets onto the square, pile them up and burn them," wrote Igor Kravchuk from Kharkiv on Facebook. Another, Yevgen Petrov from Zhytomyr, said: "Let's boycott Apple and support Android, a creator of gadgets that don't cave in to the Kremlin!" Google does not identify Crimea as belonging to either Russia or Ukraine on its maps. However, when used in Russia, it writes Crimean placenames in Russian and shows a line along the de facto border with Ukraine. Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 in a move condemned by most of the global community. The seizure of the peninsula helped spark a separatist uprising in eastern Ukraine that has claimed more than 13,000 lives. EU member Lithuania backed Ukraine, with its foreign minister Linas Linkevicius tweeting: "We call on Apple to revert this ignorant standpoint as status quo has not changed in Crimea: it's still occupied by #Russia." Russian lawmakers backed Apple's actions, however. An MP representing Crimea in Russia's parliament, Mikhail Sheremet, told RIA Novosti news agency that Apple "doesn't want to lose the highly profitable and promising Russian market". US President Donald Trump "should follow Apple's example and take the only correct and lawful decision to recognise Crimea's status as Russian," a lawmaker in Crimea's parliament, Alexei Chernyak, told RIA Novosti. Russia and Apple had been in talks over the last few months, with the US giant initially trying to show Crimea as undefined territory and removing any mention of Ukraine. Russia in November passed a law that requires phones and computers to be sold with Russian software pre-installed, although it does not enter force until June next year. Apple has threatened to leave the Russian market over the law, since it does not sell phones with other companies' software. Russian experts have warned that it may become impossible to buy Apple products in stores in the country. This could mean "farewell to iPhones", warned the tabloid Komsomolskaya Pravda.

Ukraine slams Apple for calling Crimea part of Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday warned the West against lifting sanctions on Russia as France pushes for rapprochement with Moscow.

But speaking on the sidelines of an annual forum in the capital Kiev, the 41-year-old leader told AFP that he had a "feeling" that Russian President Vladimir Putin was ready to improve ties with Ukraine.

Addressing the Yalta European Strategy (YES) forum, Zelensky said that some of Ukraine's Western partners have considered lifting sanctions against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-and-ukraine-carry-out-prisoner-swap-trump-calls-it-first-giant-step-to-peace-248311">Russia.</a>

"Sometimes they think about lifting sanctions. You are losing money. Seriously?, I am sorry but we are losing people," Zelensky said, referring to Russia's annexation of Crimea and the Moscow-backed separatist conflict in eastern Ukraine.

"Essentially, sanctions are a tax needed to maintain world order. A peace tax, if you will. And you know in the civilised world it's normal to pay taxes," he said.

"Sanctions should remain" until peace was restored in eastern Ukraine, Zelensky added.

In 2014, Russia annexed the Crimean peninsula and supported a separatist insurgency in Ukraine's industrial east. The conflict between Russia-backed fighters and Ukrainian troops has killed more than 13,000 people.

In response, the West has imposed sweeping economic sanctions targeting the Russian oil, defence and banking sectors as well as Russian officials over their alleged involvement in the conflict in eastern Ukraine.

On Thursday, the European Union extended by six months sanctions against Russian and Ukrainian officials while economic penalties were extended in June.

French President Emmanuel Macron has in recent weeks pushed for a review of ties with Russia, indicating that more sanctions against Moscow were not in France's interests.

In a keynote speech to French ambassadors in late August, Macron said, "The European continent will never be stable, will never be secure, if we don't pacify and clarify our relations with Russia."

'Getting Crimea back'&nbsp;

Attempts to resolve the Ukraine crisis have been revived since the election in April of comedian-turned-president Zelensky.

The political novice fulfilled a key campaign promise by getting 35 detainees held by Russia sent home in a historic prisoner swap last weekend.

Paris has called for a new Ukraine summit of Putin, Zelensky and the French and German leaders to take place later this month.

Asked by AFP on the forum's sidelines if Putin was ready to make concessions, Zelensky said, "I don't know so far. I will understand this at our first meeting."

But he also said he had a "feeling" that Putin was ready to improve ties.

That feeling was based "on many things," he said. "From our (phone) calls to the political situation in the world on the whole."

Zelensky told the conference that work was underway to prepare a new prisoner swap with Russia.

He also said he would push for the return of Crimea but admitted it would be "the most complicated" issue.

"I'll be honest, we are thinking about it. We have several ideas," he said, declining to provide further details.

"We will fight to get Crimea back."

Zelensky added that he expected to meet with US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-steps-up-donald-trump-impeachment-probe-248698">Donald Trump </a>in Washington later this month.

The Kremlin has repeatedly said the return of Crimea to Ukraine is out of the question.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday warned the West against lifting sanctions on Russia as France pushes for rapprochement with Moscow. But speaking on the sidelines of an annual forum in the capital Kiev, the 41-year-old leader told AFP that he had a "feeling" that Russian President Vladimir Putin was ready to improve ties with Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday warned the West against lifting sanctions on Russia as France pushes for rapprochement with Moscow. But speaking on the sidelines of an annual forum in the capital Kiev, the 41-year-old leader told AFP that he had a "feeling" that Russian President Vladimir Putin was ready to improve ties with Ukraine. Addressing the Yalta European Strategy (YES) forum, Zelensky said that some of Ukraine's Western partners have considered lifting sanctions against Russia. "Sometimes they think about lifting sanctions. You are losing money. Seriously?, I am sorry but we are losing people," Zelensky said, referring to Russia's annexation of Crimea and the Moscow-backed separatist conflict in eastern Ukraine. "Essentially, sanctions are a tax needed to maintain world order. A peace tax, if you will. And you know in the civilised world it's normal to pay taxes," he said. "Sanctions should remain" until peace was restored in eastern Ukraine, Zelensky added. In 2014, Russia annexed the Crimean peninsula and supported a separatist insurgency in Ukraine's industrial east. The conflict between Russia-backed fighters and Ukrainian troops has killed more than 13,000 people. In response, the West has imposed sweeping economic sanctions targeting the Russian oil, defence and banking sectors as well as Russian officials over their alleged involvement in the conflict in eastern Ukraine. On Thursday, the European Union extended by six months sanctions against Russian and Ukrainian officials while economic penalties were extended in June. French President Emmanuel Macron has in recent weeks pushed for a review of ties with Russia, indicating that more sanctions against Moscow were not in France's interests. In a keynote speech to French ambassadors in late August, Macron said, "The European continent will never be stable, will never be secure, if we don't pacify and clarify our relations with Russia." 'Getting Crimea back' Attempts to resolve the Ukraine crisis have been revived since the election in April of comedian-turned-president Zelensky. The political novice fulfilled a key campaign promise by getting 35 detainees held by Russia sent home in a historic prisoner swap last weekend. Paris has called for a new Ukraine summit of Putin, Zelensky and the French and German leaders to take place later this month. Asked by AFP on the forum's sidelines if Putin was ready to make concessions, Zelensky said, "I don't know so far. I will understand this at our first meeting." But he also said he had a "feeling" that Putin was ready to improve ties. That feeling was based "on many things," he said. "From our (phone) calls to the political situation in the world on the whole." Zelensky told the conference that work was underway to prepare a new prisoner swap with Russia. He also said he would push for the return of Crimea but admitted it would be "the most complicated" issue. "I'll be honest, we are thinking about it. We have several ideas," he said, declining to provide further details. "We will fight to get Crimea back." Zelensky added that he expected to meet with US President Donald Trump in Washington later this month. The Kremlin has repeatedly said the return of Crimea to Ukraine is out of the question.

Russia sanctions must remain in place: Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky

Russians vote Sunday in local elections after weeks of opposition protests that led to the biggest police crackdown on dissent in nearly a decade.

Elections take place after Moscow and Kiev carried out a long-awaited swap of 70 prisoners on Saturday, a deal hailed as a first step towards ending five years of conflict after Moscow's annexation of Crimea.

Municipal and regional polls will be held across the country, but most attention will be focused on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-opposition-to-hold-new-protest-march-246854">Moscow</a> parliament vote following the arrests and jailings of independent would-be candidates and their supporters.

Analysts say the results of the vote will be keenly watched ahead of parliamentary elections in 2021 and will help shape Russia's political future, as President Vladimir Putin enters his third decade in power.

In recent weeks, tens of thousands have taken part in Moscow protests demanding a fair vote after allies of opposition leader Alexei Navalny were barred from the election. Rap stars and prominent bloggers backed the demonstrations.

Authorities responded with a police crackdown the biggest since a wave of protests in 2011-12 against Putin's return to the Kremlin after a stint as prime minister.

Tatyana Stanovaya, head of the R.Politik analysis firm, said the campaign exposed a growing rift between authorities bent on preserving the status quo and Russians wanting political change.

"The Moscow parliament elections have become a litmus test of the authorities' ability to accept this new reality," Stanovaya told AFP.&nbsp;

Authorities briefly jailed nearly all opposition politicians seeking to get on the ballot in Moscow.

Several people were also imprisoned for alleged violence against police, even though opposition supporters said their rallies were peaceful.

Smart voting

Some 7.2 million people are eligible to elect 45 lawmakers in the Moscow parliament, which is dominated by the ruling United Russia party.

But not a single candidate is formally running on the United Russia ticket as the party's popularity hits rock bottom.

Navalny has put forward a "Smart Voting" plan urging Muscovites to support those who have the highest chances of beating pro-Kremlin candidates. Most of them are Communists.

The 43-year-old lawyer described the vote as a referendum on whether Russians trust authorities and the ruling party.

"The only way to say 'NO' is coordinated voting for the strongest competitors of the United Russia candidates," he wrote.

"'Smart voting' is a protest," said Lyubov Sobol, a lawyer for Navalny's Anti-Corruption Fund who refused food for more than a month after her exclusion from the ballot.

The 31-year-old has emerged as the brightest star in a new generation of political challengers, with videos of her resisting authorities going viral.&nbsp;

The chief of the central election commission, Ella Pamfilova, said that a dozen opposition candidates were disqualified because they did not provide the right papers or faked some of their supporters' signatures.

Russians will elect governors in 16 regions, and elections to legislative assemblies will take place in 13 regions.

The race for the governor's seat in Saint Petersburg has become the most controversial campaign outside Moscow, with the Kremlin backing the unpopular acting city chief Alexander Beglov.&nbsp;

Polling stations in Moscow will be open from 0500 GMT to 1700 GMT.

Russians vote Sunday in local elections after weeks of opposition protests that led to the biggest police crackdown on dissent in nearly a decade. Elections take place after Moscow and Kiev carried out a long-awaited swap of 70 prisoners on Saturday, a deal hailed as a first step towards ending five years of conflict after Moscow's annexation of Crimea.

Russians vote Sunday in local elections after weeks of opposition protests that led to the biggest police crackdown on dissent in nearly a decade. Elections take place after Moscow and Kiev carried out a long-awaited swap of 70 prisoners on Saturday, a deal hailed as a first step towards ending five years of conflict after Moscow's annexation of Crimea. Municipal and regional polls will be held across the country, but most attention will be focused on the Moscow parliament vote following the arrests and jailings of independent would-be candidates and their supporters. Analysts say the results of the vote will be keenly watched ahead of parliamentary elections in 2021 and will help shape Russia's political future, as President Vladimir Putin enters his third decade in power. In recent weeks, tens of thousands have taken part in Moscow protests demanding a fair vote after allies of opposition leader Alexei Navalny were barred from the election. Rap stars and prominent bloggers backed the demonstrations. Authorities responded with a police crackdown the biggest since a wave of protests in 2011-12 against Putin's return to the Kremlin after a stint as prime minister. Tatyana Stanovaya, head of the R.Politik analysis firm, said the campaign exposed a growing rift between authorities bent on preserving the status quo and Russians wanting political change. "The Moscow parliament elections have become a litmus test of the authorities' ability to accept this new reality," Stanovaya told AFP. Authorities briefly jailed nearly all opposition politicians seeking to get on the ballot in Moscow. Several people were also imprisoned for alleged violence against police, even though opposition supporters said their rallies were peaceful. Smart voting Some 7.2 million people are eligible to elect 45 lawmakers in the Moscow parliament, which is dominated by the ruling United Russia party. But not a single candidate is formally running on the United Russia ticket as the party's popularity hits rock bottom. Navalny has put forward a "Smart Voting" plan urging Muscovites to support those who have the highest chances of beating pro-Kremlin candidates. Most of them are Communists. The 43-year-old lawyer described the vote as a referendum on whether Russians trust authorities and the ruling party. "The only way to say 'NO' is coordinated voting for the strongest competitors of the United Russia candidates," he wrote. "'Smart voting' is a protest," said Lyubov Sobol, a lawyer for Navalny's Anti-Corruption Fund who refused food for more than a month after her exclusion from the ballot. The 31-year-old has emerged as the brightest star in a new generation of political challengers, with videos of her resisting authorities going viral. The chief of the central election commission, Ella Pamfilova, said that a dozen opposition candidates were disqualified because they did not provide the right papers or faked some of their supporters' signatures. Russians will elect governors in 16 regions, and elections to legislative assemblies will take place in 13 regions. The race for the governor's seat in Saint Petersburg has become the most controversial campaign outside Moscow, with the Kremlin backing the unpopular acting city chief Alexander Beglov. Polling stations in Moscow will be open from 0500 GMT to 1700 GMT.

Russians go to polls after summer of protests

Russia's President Vladimir Putin attended a biker show organized by the Night Wolves motorcycle club on the peninsula of Crimea, which Russia annexed from Ukraine in 2014, amid vast protests in Moscow and several Russian cities on (August 10).

Putin joins bikers for a ride in Crimea

Ukraine on Thursday seized a Russian tanker for its alleged involvement in the capture of three <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-walks-out-of-europe-rights-body-as-russia-returns-230295">Ukrainian navy vessels by Russia</a>, prompting Moscow to warn of consequences if any Russian citizens were "taken hostage".

The crew members were later freed by Ukraine and were on their way home, but the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-objects-to-ukraine-sea-dispute-case-in-the-hague-226002">tanker remained in Ukrainian</a> custody in the Danube river port of Izmail, a spokesman for the Russian Embassy in Kiev said by telephone.

The seizure threatens to upset delicate negotiations on a possible prisoner swap between the two countries and came weeks after Volodymyr Zelenskiy, Ukraine's new president, spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin for the first time.

The incident is also certain to further sour relations between Kiev and Moscow, which remain blighted by Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea from Ukraine and its backing for pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine.

The Ukrainian prosecutor's office said 10 Russian crew were detained for questioning. Russian news agencies said around 15 Russians had been on board at the time of the seizure.

Ukraine's security service alleged that the tanker, the "Nika Spirit", used to be called "NEYMA" and was placed beneath a bridge near Crimea in November in order to block three Ukrainian navy ships from entering the Sea of Azov.

Russia seized the Ukrainian ships after opening fire on them and is still holding 24 Ukrainian sailors who were on board at the time, accusing them of illegally entering its territorial waters, a charge they deny.

"The Ukrainian security service and military prosecutors' office detained a Russian tanker, the Neyma, which blocked Ukrainian warships in the Kerch Strait," Ukraine's SBU security service said in a statement.

The SBU published footage of the tanker being searched. It showed two crew members, introduced as the captain and a senior crew member. They were not handcuffed and their faces were blurred.

The same footage showed the name of the detained ship, the Nika Spirit, on the vessel's bow next to a darker patch of paint that apparently covered up its old name. Two men in camouflaged uniforms with Ukrainian insignia were shown walking through the Russian-flagged vessel.

Russia's Foreign Ministry warned Ukraine "there will soon be consequences" if any Russian crew members were "taken hostage", the RIA news agency reported.

The SBU said the Russian vessel had entered Ukraine under its new name, the Nika Spirit, "to cover its involvement in illegal actions", but that it had identified the ship from its unique International Maritime Organization number (IMO).

"The above named vessel is considered to be a piece of material evidence, (and) a petition to a court for its seizure is being prepared," the security service said in its statement.

The Ukrainian president's office and the foreign ministry declined to comment.

In Moscow, senior Russian lawmaker Vladimir Dzhabarov described Ukraine's actions as "absolutely illegal" and detrimental to relations between the two countries, RIA said.

In Kiev, Ukraine's ombudswoman said negotiations on the release of the 24 Ukrainian sailors being held by Russia from the November incident had intensified after Russian and Ukrainian leaders spoke by phone earlier this month.

Ukraine on Thursday seized a Russian tanker for its alleged involvement in the capture of three Ukrainian navy vessels by Russia, prompting Moscow to warn of consequences if any Russian citizens were "taken hostage".

Ukraine on Thursday seized a Russian tanker for its alleged involvement in the capture of three Ukrainian navy vessels by Russia, prompting Moscow to warn of consequences if any Russian citizens were "taken hostage". The crew members were later freed by Ukraine and were on their way home, but the tanker remained in Ukrainian custody in the Danube river port of Izmail, a spokesman for the Russian Embassy in Kiev said by telephone. The seizure threatens to upset delicate negotiations on a possible prisoner swap between the two countries and came weeks after Volodymyr Zelenskiy, Ukraine's new president, spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin for the first time. The incident is also certain to further sour relations between Kiev and Moscow, which remain blighted by Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea from Ukraine and its backing for pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine. The Ukrainian prosecutor's office said 10 Russian crew were detained for questioning. Russian news agencies said around 15 Russians had been on board at the time of the seizure. Ukraine's security service alleged that the tanker, the "Nika Spirit", used to be called "NEYMA" and was placed beneath a bridge near Crimea in November in order to block three Ukrainian navy ships from entering the Sea of Azov. Russia seized the Ukrainian ships after opening fire on them and is still holding 24 Ukrainian sailors who were on board at the time, accusing them of illegally entering its territorial waters, a charge they deny. "The Ukrainian security service and military prosecutors' office detained a Russian tanker, the Neyma, which blocked Ukrainian warships in the Kerch Strait," Ukraine's SBU security service said in a statement. The SBU published footage of the tanker being searched. It showed two crew members, introduced as the captain and a senior crew member. They were not handcuffed and their faces were blurred. The same footage showed the name of the detained ship, the Nika Spirit, on the vessel's bow next to a darker patch of paint that apparently covered up its old name. Two men in camouflaged uniforms with Ukrainian insignia were shown walking through the Russian-flagged vessel. Russia's Foreign Ministry warned Ukraine "there will soon be consequences" if any Russian crew members were "taken hostage", the RIA news agency reported. The SBU said the Russian vessel had entered Ukraine under its new name, the Nika Spirit, "to cover its involvement in illegal actions", but that it had identified the ship from its unique International Maritime Organization number (IMO). "The above named vessel is considered to be a piece of material evidence, (and) a petition to a court for its seizure is being prepared," the security service said in its statement. The Ukrainian president's office and the foreign ministry declined to comment. In Moscow, senior Russian lawmaker Vladimir Dzhabarov described Ukraine's actions as "absolutely illegal" and detrimental to relations between the two countries, RIA said. In Kiev, Ukraine's ombudswoman said negotiations on the release of the 24 Ukrainian sailors being held by Russia from the November incident had intensified after Russian and Ukrainian leaders spoke by phone earlier this month.

Ukraine seizes Russian tanker, frees crew after Moscow warns of 'consequences'

Russia staged large-scale aviation drills at the annexed Crimea peninsula this week with crews from Aerospace Forces from four Russian military districts and the Northern Fleet taking part.

Russia stages Airforce drills in annexed Crimea

Just hours after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-eases-citizenship-rules-in-east-ukraine-213296">Russia made it easier for people living in Ukraine's separatist territories</a> to obtain Russian passports, President Putin said he had no desire to create problems for the new Ukrainian leadership.

"We have no desire to create problems for the new Ukrainian leadership, but to tolerate a situation in which people living in the territory of Donetsk and Luhansk republic are generally deprived of any civil rights, this is already crossing the line from the point of view of human rights," President Putin said.

The new Russian rule has made it easier for separatist regions to receive a Russian passport within three months of applying. Ukraine and Russia have been at loggerheads since the annexation of Crimea by Russian forces in 2014.&nbsp;

"They cannot travel normally, they cannot meet their own elementary needs or exercise their elementary rights. It's a purely humanitarian issue," Putin said while giving the green signal to the new order.

Ukrainian president-elect Volodymyr Zelenskiy who recently won the elections by a landslide urged more international sanctions against Russia after Moscow's new move.

"Kiev is counting on increased diplomatic and sanctions pressure on the Russian Federation," Zelensky's press service said in a statement. Ukraine said it had informed the United Nations about Russia's move and also asked the EU to take "prompt and decisive" action.

According to a copy of the decree published on the Kremlin website, the law aimed to "protect rights" and was guided by "the norms of international law".&nbsp;

However, Ukraine's foreign minister Pavlo Klimkin said the decision was "the continuation of aggression and interference in our internal affairs."&nbsp;

"Russia has deprived you of the present, and now it is trespassing on your future," he said.

Iryna Gerashchenko, the deputy speaker of the Ukrainian parliament said: "Putin always uses moments of uncertainty and transition periods to plunge another knife into Ukraine's back."&nbsp;

Other Ukrainian leaders also condemned the move.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Just hours after Russia made it easier for people living in Ukraine's separatist territories to obtain Russian passports, President Putin said he had no desire to create problems for the new Ukrainian leadership.

Just hours after Russia made it easier for people living in Ukraine's separatist territories to obtain Russian passports, President Putin said he had no desire to create problems for the new Ukrainian leadership. "We have no desire to create problems for the new Ukrainian leadership, but to tolerate a situation in which people living in the territory of Donetsk and Luhansk republic are generally deprived of any civil rights, this is already crossing the line from the point of view of human rights," President Putin said. The new Russian rule has made it easier for separatist regions to receive a Russian passport within three months of applying. Ukraine and Russia have been at loggerheads since the annexation of Crimea by Russian forces in 2014. "They cannot travel normally, they cannot meet their own elementary needs or exercise their elementary rights. It's a purely humanitarian issue," Putin said while giving the green signal to the new order. Ukrainian president-elect Volodymyr Zelenskiy who recently won the elections by a landslide urged more international sanctions against Russia after Moscow's new move. "Kiev is counting on increased diplomatic and sanctions pressure on the Russian Federation," Zelensky's press service said in a statement. Ukraine said it had informed the United Nations about Russia's move and also asked the EU to take "prompt and decisive" action. According to a copy of the decree published on the Kremlin website, the law aimed to "protect rights" and was guided by "the norms of international law". However, Ukraine's foreign minister Pavlo Klimkin said the decision was "the continuation of aggression and interference in our internal affairs." "Russia has deprived you of the present, and now it is trespassing on your future," he said. Iryna Gerashchenko, the deputy speaker of the Ukrainian parliament said: "Putin always uses moments of uncertainty and transition periods to plunge another knife into Ukraine's back." Other Ukrainian leaders also condemned the move.

Have no desire to create problems for new Ukrainian leadership: Putin on new passport rule

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