West and Russia have pressurised India to pick sides, but India abstained from UNGA voting. Russia has made it clear that abstentions will be considered unfriendly.

West, Russia pressurise India to pick sides, India continues on path of non-alignment

United States has threatened China with sanctions if it decided to provide “material support” to Russia.

In a veiled warning to Xi Jinping, US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman on Wednesday said that a range of sanctions announced by the West and its allies should serve as an example of what is expected to come should China sides with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"It gives President Xi, I think, a pretty good understanding of what might come his way should he, in fact, support Putin in any material fashion," Sherman told a House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee hearing, according to news agency Reuters.

She further said that Beijing should take note of the coordinated Western response over Ukraine if it holds aspirations of invading democratically governed island of Taiwan by force.

"We hope that the PRC (People's Republic of China) understands that any such action would see a response from the international community, not just from the United States," she added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-says-russia-hiding-thousands-killed-in-mariupol-468954">Ukrainian President Zelensky says Russia hiding 'thousands' killed in Mariupol</a>

US has been repeatedly warning China of consequences if it sides with Russia in Ukraine war.

In March, US President Joe Biden warned Xi during a video call against providing any material support to help Russia counter Western sanctions or to provide military assistance.

Biden later said that China knows its economic future is tied to the West, not Russia

China has so far refused to condemn the war and criticised the West for imposing sanctions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-impact-of-war-on-ukraines-comedian-president-and-an-unlikely-wartime-leader-468665">How Ukraine war took toll on comedian-turned unlikely war president Volodymyr Zelensky</a>

China’s relations with Russia have come under even closer scrutiny since the two countries declared a “no limits” partnership in early February.

Western intelligence reports claimed that China knew in advance of Putin’s plans to invade Ukraine, and had reportedly urged the Russian president to delay the war until the Beijing Winter Olympics ends.

However, China has denied making any such request, and trashed the report as “baseless allegations.”

Watch |&nbsp;US sanctions Putin's adult children amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-us-sanctions-putins-adult-children-amid-the-ongoing-russian-invasion-of-ukraine-468932/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

United States has threatened China with sanctions if it decided to provide “material support” to Russia. In a veiled warning to Xi Jinping, US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman on Wednesday said that a range of sanctions announced by the West and its allies should serve as an example of what is expected to come should China sides with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

United States has threatened China with sanctions if it decided to provide “material support” to Russia. In a veiled warning to Xi Jinping, US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman on Wednesday said that a range of sanctions announced by the West and its allies should serve as an example of what is expected to come should China sides with Russian President Vladimir Putin. "It gives President Xi, I think, a pretty good understanding of what might come his way should he, in fact, support Putin in any material fashion," Sherman told a House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee hearing, according to news agency Reuters. She further said that Beijing should take note of the coordinated Western response over Ukraine if it holds aspirations of invading democratically governed island of Taiwan by force. "We hope that the PRC (People's Republic of China) understands that any such action would see a response from the international community, not just from the United States," she added. Also read | Ukrainian President Zelensky says Russia hiding 'thousands' killed in Mariupol US has been repeatedly warning China of consequences if it sides with Russia in Ukraine war. In March, US President Joe Biden warned Xi during a video call against providing any material support to help Russia counter Western sanctions or to provide military assistance. Biden later said that China knows its economic future is tied to the West, not Russia China has so far refused to condemn the war and criticised the West for imposing sanctions. Also read | How Ukraine war took toll on comedian-turned unlikely war president Volodymyr Zelensky China’s relations with Russia have come under even closer scrutiny since the two countries declared a “no limits” partnership in early February. Western intelligence reports claimed that China knew in advance of Putin’s plans to invade Ukraine, and had reportedly urged the Russian president to delay the war until the Beijing Winter Olympics ends. However, China has denied making any such request, and trashed the report as “baseless allegations.” Watch | US sanctions Putin's adult children amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine war: US threatens Beijing with sanctions if it provides ‘material support’ to Moscow

Six weeks on Russia's military offensive is now concentrated in the east and southern part of Ukraine. As a result, the citizens on Wednesday were warned to leave the regions immediately.

Russian invasion | 'Leave now or face threat of death,' Ukraine's message to residents

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has displaced millions but it's been a particular challenge to the elderly. A lot of them are Jewish survivors of the Nazi holocaust and eight decades after world war 2 appended their lives another war has arrived at their doorsteps.

Russian invasion: 4.2 million Ukrainians displaced in 40 days

President Vladimir Putin has been at the helm of affairs in Russia uninterruptedly for over two decades since 1999 when he was appointed Russia’s Prime Minister by then president Boris Yeltsin. Within a year he was elected as Russia’s president.

As his influence and control over his country grew and as Russia gradually became a force to reckon with in global affairs under Putin’s leadership, a systematic campaign was launched in the West to ascribe various attributes to Putin.&nbsp;More often than not these attributes are derogatory in nature and range between autocrat, dictator, aggressive narcissist, raging bully, ruthless demolisher of opponents, one who has presided over the systematic dilution of democracy and institutes of governance and so on.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine (February 24, 2022) has created a favourable environment for the Putin-haters to accelerate anti-Putin campaign to not only to paint him as a villain who is allegedly a threat to international peace, stability and security, but also to question his mental health and describe him as “mad”. None other than US President Biden has very recently gone to the extent of dubbing Putin as a “butcher” and “war criminal” who does not deserve to be in power.

To quote Amish Tripathi : “There is your truth and there is my truth. As for the universal truth, it does not exist.” So what is Putin’s “truth”?

The book-length collection of interviews with Putin by Russian journalists published under the title “The First Person” in 2000 (soon after he became president) introduced the new president of Russia, describing Putin as a son, schoolboy, university student, young intelligence specialist, spy, democrat, bureaucrat, family man, and politician.

Even though there were no startling revelations, some of the observations are of interest. For instance, Putin was candid in admitting that he didn’t know much about Stalin’s violent purges as he “was a pure and utterly successful product of Soviet patriotic education".

He was critical of the Soviet leaders for the invasions of Hungary and Czechoslovakia during the cold war. He says: "These were major mistakes. And the Russophobia that we see in Eastern Europe today is the fruit of those mistakes."

More than twenty years have elapsed since the first glimpses of Vladimir Putin were made public. It might be useful to quickly go through some of the key moments in the life and times of Putin beginning from childhood to draw some conclusions about his persona.

Putin was born in October 1952 in Leningrad (now St. Petersburg)—a city which was under siege during World War II. There is a broad consensus amongst historians, biographers and experts that Putin’s childhood was traumatic. The psychotherapist and author Joseph Burgo summed up in 2014: “Vladimir was born into this atmosphere of hunger, disability and profound grief.”

Putin recalls an interesting episode from his childhood in “The First Person'—"There were hordes of rats in the front entryway. My friends and I used to chase them around with sticks.” The rat chase appears to have influenced his mindset as evident from his narration.

&nbsp;“Once I spotted a huge rat and pursued it down the hall until I drove it into a corner. It had nowhere to run. Suddenly, it lashed around and threw itself at me. I was surprised and frightened. Now the rat was chasing me. Luckily, I was a little faster and I managed to slam the door shut in its nose. There, on that stair landing, I got a quick and lasting lesson in the meaning of the word cornered.”

Was his military intervention in Georgia in August 2008, Crimea’s annexation in 2014 and now Ukraine’s invasion in 2022 was a result of the feeling of “being cornered” by NATO’s eastward expansion and the West’s attempts to isolate Russia/ Putin by measures such as exclusion from G-8 or to weaken Russia’s economy through unilateral sanctions, and to tarnish his image?

The Americans have now doubled up their efforts to “corner” Putin. Will he step back or accelerate his mission to achieve the declared objectives in Ukraine: Ukraine’s neutrality, control over the eastern

Ukraine and a regime change in Ukraine if possible? The answer is&nbsp;most likely yes. Because he, at the end of the day, is a fighter who learned martial arts and excelled in judo in his childhood to fight against the street bullies and hooligans in his neighbourhood. Putin made an interesting observation in October 2015 to a western journalist: “50 years ago, the streets of Leningrad taught me one thing—If a fight's inevitable, you must strike first."

Putin once described the collapse of the Soviet Union as “the greatest geo-political catastrophe of the century” and that “whoever does not miss the Soviet Union has no heart."&nbsp;This statement of Putin reflects his nostalgia about the global power of which he was a part as an officer of the powerful Soviet intelligence agency, KGB, for several years.&nbsp;But more importantly, he has also gone on record to warn: “Whoever wants it (Soviet Union) back has no brain”.

Putin is thus a realist who understands that it would be an impossible task to reconstruct the disintegrated Soviet empire. Yet, Putin remains fixated with one idea i.e., to restore the status of Russia to a global superpower which is not only listened to, but also respected and perhaps feared, too. As a bottom line, Russia defines the former Soviet space as Russia’s “near abroad”, considers it as a sphere of Russia’s natural influence and is strongly opposed to any encroachments, including NATO’s eastwards expansion.

Putin’s public views on the war with Chechnya also reflect his mindset.&nbsp;He once said: “I was convinced that if we didn't stop the extremists right away, we'd be facing a second Yugoslavia on the entire territory of the Russian Federation--the Yugoslavization of Russia.” In other words, if Putin cannot restore the USSR to its original shape, he would not tolerate further fragmentation of the Russian Federation.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-accuses-moscow-of-taking-children-hostage-and-using-them-as-shields-468027">&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv accuses Moscow of taking children hostage and using them as shields</a>

Russia’s military campaigns in Syria were ostensibly to counter ISIS but it was soon apparent that the true objective was to defend President Assad’s government. So, here you have Putin as a leader who is willing to stick his neck out to protect a friend and ally. A friend in need is a friend indeed.

Even as an acting president in 1999 Putin had expressed his desire for close cooperation with Europe and even did not rule out the possibility of joining NATO. In the wake of 9/11, Putin had offered all possible assistance to the USA in her war on terrorism. It is now only a matter of speculation as to what would have been the state of global political and security situation, if the West had responded to Putin’s early gesture and disbanded NATO in the wake of the collapse of the USSR and consequent dissolution of the rival WARSAW PACT and had incorporated Russia into a new security structure for the Euro-Atlantic as an equal and respected member.

It is also a matter of fact that from the very beginning Putin had begun to assert on issues which in his opinion were not right. He strongly objected to U.S. President George Bush’s decision in 2001 to abandon the 1972 Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty. Later in 2002-2003, Putin opposed the US and British plans to use force to oust Saddam Hussein’s government in Iraq. He was always opposed to NATO’s eastwards expansion from the very beginning. Crimea’s annexation in 2015 was Putin’s firm response or perhaps revenge for the change of the pro-Russian regime in Ukraine in 2015 inspired by the West. And he did so by skilfully manipulating the incorporation of strategically important Crimean peninsula of Ukraine into Russian Federation through a seemingly democratic process of Referendum.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-troops-selling-looted-goods-in-belarus-bazaar-alleges-ukraine-468198" hreflang="en">Russian troops selling 'looted' goods in Belarus bazaar, alleges Ukraine</a>

The soft side of Putin was revealed but only once when the world saw him crying in public at the funeral of his mentor Anatoly Sobchak who picked up Putin – then a middle-ranking KGB officer - from obscurity and gave him his first job in politics. Putin since then seems to have hardened at heart at least to the extent that he doesn’t let out his emotions publically.

It is difficult to draw more than a pen picture of Putin’s persona. Nevertheless one can say with some certainty that Putin has failed to earn the desired respect at home and abroad to qualify him as a statesman.

He, for sure, is a strong nationalist who is committed to the restoration of the lost glory of the Russian empire. He has the skill to survive against odds. He has often refused to accept the West’s convenient interpretation of the core principles of the international code of conduct and is willing to fight back whenever pushed to a corner without caring for the costs and consequences. He is a warrior but for the US President to call him a war criminal is a bit stretching it too far besides the fact that the US Presidents have many skeletons in their own cupboards.

Watch |&nbsp;United States: Putin misled on how war progressed

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-states-putin-misled-on-how-war-progressed-467047/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)</div>

President Vladimir Putin has been at the helm of affairs in Russia uninterruptedly for over two decades since 1999 when he was appointed Russia’s Prime Minister by then president Boris Yeltsin.

President Vladimir Putin has been at the helm of affairs in Russia uninterruptedly for over two decades since 1999 when he was appointed Russia’s Prime Minister by then president Boris Yeltsin. Within a year he was elected as Russia’s president. As his influence and control over his country grew and as Russia gradually became a force to reckon with in global affairs under Putin’s leadership, a systematic campaign was launched in the West to ascribe various attributes to Putin. More often than not these attributes are derogatory in nature and range between autocrat, dictator, aggressive narcissist, raging bully, ruthless demolisher of opponents, one who has presided over the systematic dilution of democracy and institutes of governance and so on. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine (February 24, 2022) has created a favourable environment for the Putin-haters to accelerate anti-Putin campaign to not only to paint him as a villain who is allegedly a threat to international peace, stability and security, but also to question his mental health and describe him as “mad”. None other than US President Biden has very recently gone to the extent of dubbing Putin as a “butcher” and “war criminal” who does not deserve to be in power. To quote Amish Tripathi : “There is your truth and there is my truth. As for the universal truth, it does not exist.” So what is Putin’s “truth”? The book-length collection of interviews with Putin by Russian journalists published under the title “The First Person” in 2000 (soon after he became president) introduced the new president of Russia, describing Putin as a son, schoolboy, university student, young intelligence specialist, spy, democrat, bureaucrat, family man, and politician. Even though there were no startling revelations, some of the observations are of interest. For instance, Putin was candid in admitting that he didn’t know much about Stalin’s violent purges as he “was a pure and utterly successful product of Soviet patriotic education". He was critical of the Soviet leaders for the invasions of Hungary and Czechoslovakia during the cold war. He says: "These were major mistakes. And the Russophobia that we see in Eastern Europe today is the fruit of those mistakes." More than twenty years have elapsed since the first glimpses of Vladimir Putin were made public. It might be useful to quickly go through some of the key moments in the life and times of Putin beginning from childhood to draw some conclusions about his persona. Putin was born in October 1952 in Leningrad (now St. Petersburg)—a city which was under siege during World War II. There is a broad consensus amongst historians, biographers and experts that Putin’s childhood was traumatic. The psychotherapist and author Joseph Burgo summed up in 2014: “Vladimir was born into this atmosphere of hunger, disability and profound grief.” Putin recalls an interesting episode from his childhood in “The First Person'—"There were hordes of rats in the front entryway. My friends and I used to chase them around with sticks.” The rat chase appears to have influenced his mindset as evident from his narration. “Once I spotted a huge rat and pursued it down the hall until I drove it into a corner. It had nowhere to run. Suddenly, it lashed around and threw itself at me. I was surprised and frightened. Now the rat was chasing me. Luckily, I was a little faster and I managed to slam the door shut in its nose. There, on that stair landing, I got a quick and lasting lesson in the meaning of the word cornered.” Was his military intervention in Georgia in August 2008, Crimea’s annexation in 2014 and now Ukraine’s invasion in 2022 was a result of the feeling of “being cornered” by NATO’s eastward expansion and the West’s attempts to isolate Russia/ Putin by measures such as exclusion from G-8 or to weaken Russia’s economy through unilateral sanctions, and to tarnish his image? The Americans have now doubled up their efforts to “corner” Putin. Will he step back or accelerate his mission to achieve the declared objectives in Ukraine: Ukraine’s neutrality, control over the eastern Ukraine and a regime change in Ukraine if possible? The answer is most likely yes. Because he, at the end of the day, is a fighter who learned martial arts and excelled in judo in his childhood to fight against the street bullies and hooligans in his neighbourhood. Putin made an interesting observation in October 2015 to a western journalist: “50 years ago, the streets of Leningrad taught me one thing—If a fight's inevitable, you must strike first." Putin once described the collapse of the Soviet Union as “the greatest geo-political catastrophe of the century” and that “whoever does not miss the Soviet Union has no heart." This statement of Putin reflects his nostalgia about the global power of which he was a part as an officer of the powerful Soviet intelligence agency, KGB, for several years. But more importantly, he has also gone on record to warn: “Whoever wants it (Soviet Union) back has no brain”. Putin is thus a realist who understands that it would be an impossible task to reconstruct the disintegrated Soviet empire. Yet, Putin remains fixated with one idea i.e., to restore the status of Russia to a global superpower which is not only listened to, but also respected and perhaps feared, too. As a bottom line, Russia defines the former Soviet space as Russia’s “near abroad”, considers it as a sphere of Russia’s natural influence and is strongly opposed to any encroachments, including NATO’s eastwards expansion. Putin’s public views on the war with Chechnya also reflect his mindset. He once said: “I was convinced that if we didn't stop the extremists right away, we'd be facing a second Yugoslavia on the entire territory of the Russian Federation--the Yugoslavization of Russia.” In other words, if Putin cannot restore the USSR to its original shape, he would not tolerate further fragmentation of the Russian Federation. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv accuses Moscow of taking children hostage and using them as shields Russia’s military campaigns in Syria were ostensibly to counter ISIS but it was soon apparent that the true objective was to defend President Assad’s government. So, here you have Putin as a leader who is willing to stick his neck out to protect a friend and ally. A friend in need is a friend indeed. Even as an acting president in 1999 Putin had expressed his desire for close cooperation with Europe and even did not rule out the possibility of joining NATO. In the wake of 9/11, Putin had offered all possible assistance to the USA in her war on terrorism. It is now only a matter of speculation as to what would have been the state of global political and security situation, if the West had responded to Putin’s early gesture and disbanded NATO in the wake of the collapse of the USSR and consequent dissolution of the rival WARSAW PACT and had incorporated Russia into a new security structure for the Euro-Atlantic as an equal and respected member. It is also a matter of fact that from the very beginning Putin had begun to assert on issues which in his opinion were not right. He strongly objected to U.S. President George Bush’s decision in 2001 to abandon the 1972 Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty. Later in 2002-2003, Putin opposed the US and British plans to use force to oust Saddam Hussein’s government in Iraq. He was always opposed to NATO’s eastwards expansion from the very beginning. Crimea’s annexation in 2015 was Putin’s firm response or perhaps revenge for the change of the pro-Russian regime in Ukraine in 2015 inspired by the West. And he did so by skilfully manipulating the incorporation of strategically important Crimean peninsula of Ukraine into Russian Federation through a seemingly democratic process of Referendum. Also read | Russian troops selling 'looted' goods in Belarus bazaar, alleges Ukraine The soft side of Putin was revealed but only once when the world saw him crying in public at the funeral of his mentor Anatoly Sobchak who picked up Putin – then a middle-ranking KGB officer - from obscurity and gave him his first job in politics. Putin since then seems to have hardened at heart at least to the extent that he doesn’t let out his emotions publically. It is difficult to draw more than a pen picture of Putin’s persona. Nevertheless one can say with some certainty that Putin has failed to earn the desired respect at home and abroad to qualify him as a statesman. He, for sure, is a strong nationalist who is committed to the restoration of the lost glory of the Russian empire. He has the skill to survive against odds. He has often refused to accept the West’s convenient interpretation of the core principles of the international code of conduct and is willing to fight back whenever pushed to a corner without caring for the costs and consequences. He is a warrior but for the US President to call him a war criminal is a bit stretching it too far besides the fact that the US Presidents have many skeletons in their own cupboards. Watch | United States: Putin misled on how war progressed (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

Vladimir Putin: A statesman, warrior or war criminal?

13 million barrels of Russian oil have been imported by India since February. Recently, the US has issued a warning against rising oil imports and is ready to enforce more sanctions against Russia.

US warns against rising oil imports, New Delhi continues to buy Russian oil

Russian troops have handed back control of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant to Ukraine, according to a letter from Russia's nuclear power company, Rosatom, local media reported.

The troops had seized control of the Chernobyl site — where radioactive waste is still stored —on February 24, the first day of the invasion.

The letter is dated March 31 and was signed by Ukraine's nuclear regulator, Energoatom.

Earlier in the day, Energoatom said that many of the Russian forces occupying the Chernobyl nuclear plant had left and were headed for the Belarusian border, leaving just a few on the territory of the defunct plant.

"The occupiers, who seized the Chernobyl nuclear power plant and other facilities in the exclusion zone, have set off in two columns towards the Ukrainian border," it said in a statement, according to Reuters.

It said that Russian forces had also retreated from the nearby town of Slavutych, where Ukrainian workers at Chernobyl live.&nbsp;

Russian troops "marched in two columns towards the Ukrainian border with Belarus" and a "small number" of Russian forces remain in the station, it said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-forces-leaving-chernobyl-nuclear-site-have-been-infected-with-radiation-sickness-reports-467130">Russian forces leaving Chernobyl nuclear site hit by radiation: Reports</a>

"There is also evidence that a column of Russian soldiers who are besieging the town of Slavutych is currently being formed to move towards Belarus," it said.&nbsp;

Chernobyl's number four reactor exploded on April 26, 1986, causing the world's worst nuclear accident which killed hundreds and spread radioactive contamination west across Europe.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-president-putin-being-misled-by-fearful-military-advisers-us-says-467111" hreflang="en">Russia President Putin being misled by fearful military advisers, US says</a>

The site lies near the Belarus border.&nbsp;

In another development, the Russian defence ministry announced a local ceasefire on Thursday to allow civilians to be evacuated from Ukraine’s Mariupol port, which has been under siege for weeks, left without water, food and power.

Watch |&nbsp;Russians drove through 'Red Forest', Chernobyl workers report incident from last February

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russians-drove-through-red-forest-chernobyl-workers-report-incident-from-last-february-466747/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian troops have handed back control of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant to Ukraine, according to a letter from Russia's nuclear power company, Rosatom, local media reported.

Russian troops have handed back control of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant to Ukraine, according to a letter from Russia's nuclear power company, Rosatom, local media reported. The troops had seized control of the Chernobyl site — where radioactive waste is still stored —on February 24, the first day of the invasion. The letter is dated March 31 and was signed by Ukraine's nuclear regulator, Energoatom. Earlier in the day, Energoatom said that many of the Russian forces occupying the Chernobyl nuclear plant had left and were headed for the Belarusian border, leaving just a few on the territory of the defunct plant. "The occupiers, who seized the Chernobyl nuclear power plant and other facilities in the exclusion zone, have set off in two columns towards the Ukrainian border," it said in a statement, according to Reuters. It said that Russian forces had also retreated from the nearby town of Slavutych, where Ukrainian workers at Chernobyl live. Russian troops "marched in two columns towards the Ukrainian border with Belarus" and a "small number" of Russian forces remain in the station, it said. Also read | Russian forces leaving Chernobyl nuclear site hit by radiation: Reports "There is also evidence that a column of Russian soldiers who are besieging the town of Slavutych is currently being formed to move towards Belarus," it said. Chernobyl's number four reactor exploded on April 26, 1986, causing the world's worst nuclear accident which killed hundreds and spread radioactive contamination west across Europe. Also read | Russia President Putin being misled by fearful military advisers, US says The site lies near the Belarus border. In another development, the Russian defence ministry announced a local ceasefire on Thursday to allow civilians to be evacuated from Ukraine’s Mariupol port, which has been under siege for weeks, left without water, food and power. Watch | Russians drove through 'Red Forest', Chernobyl workers report incident from last February (With inputs from agencies)

Russian troops give back control of Chernobyl nuclear power plant to Ukraine: Report

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Dozens of Russian forces leaving the besieged Chernobyl nuclear power facility have been infected with radiation sickness and are being admitted across the border to a special facility in Belarus, several reports have claimed.

On Wednesday, a senior US defence official claimed that the Russia forces have been pulling out of the defunct nuclear facility in Ukraine after seizing control of the facility on February 24, reports AFP.

However, an employee at the Public Council at the State Agency of Ukraine for Exclusion Zone Management claimed that they were “running away irradiated”, reports UK-based tabloid newspaper The Sun.

He alleged that they were being transported by bus to a special radiation medical centre in Gomel to help treat their radioactive poisoning.

In a post on Facebook on Wednesday, Yaroslav <a name="_Hlk99633081">Yemelianenko </a>said,&nbsp;“Another batch of radiation irradiation of Russian terrorists who captured the Chernobyl zone, was brought to the Belarusian centre of radiation medicine in Gomel today.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-president-putin-being-misled-by-fearful-military-advisers-us-says-467111" hreflang="en">Russia President Putin being misled by fearful military advisers, US says</a>

According to UNIAN news agency, Russian troops allegedly dug trenches in the highly toxic Red Forest zone, which might have been the cause of their radiation sickness.

“Have you dug trenches in the Red Forest? Now live with it for the rest of your short life. There are rules for dealing with this area. They are mandatory because radiation is physics – it works without regard to status or shoulder straps. With minimal intelligence in command or soldiers, these consequences could have been avoided,” Yemelianenko said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-says-ukraine-preparing-for-new-russian-offensive-in-the-east-dismisses-russian-claims-of-scaleback-467037">Zelensky says Ukraine preparing for new Russian offensive in the east</a>

Staff at the site earlier said that the invading troops have been sent on a “suicide” mission, added that their vehicles and equipment had no anti-radiation protection.

Speaking to Reuters, one worker on duty, when the Russians seized control of the area, said the convoy had kicked up clouds of radioactive dust while driving through the highly toxic ‘Red Forest’, which got its name when dozens of square kilometres of pine trees turned red after absorbing radiation from the 1986 explosion.

Watch |&nbsp;Russians drove through 'Red Forest', Chernobyl workers report incident from last February

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russians-drove-through-red-forest-chernobyl-workers-report-incident-from-last-february-466747/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Dozens of Russian forces leaving the besieged Chernobyl nuclear power facility have been infected with radiation sickness and are being admitted across the border to a special facility in Belarus, several reports have claimed. On Wednesday, a senior US defence official claimed that the Russia forces have been pulling out of the defunct nuclear facility in Ukraine after seizing control of the facility on February 24, reports AFP. However, an employee at the Public Council at the State Agency of Ukraine for Exclusion Zone Management claimed that they were “running away irradiated”, reports UK-based tabloid newspaper The Sun. He alleged that they were being transported by bus to a special radiation medical centre in Gomel to help treat their radioactive poisoning. In a post on Facebook on Wednesday, Yaroslav Yemelianenko said, “Another batch of radiation irradiation of Russian terrorists who captured the Chernobyl zone, was brought to the Belarusian centre of radiation medicine in Gomel today.” Also read | Russia President Putin being misled by fearful military advisers, US says According to UNIAN news agency, Russian troops allegedly dug trenches in the highly toxic Red Forest zone, which might have been the cause of their radiation sickness. “Have you dug trenches in the Red Forest? Now live with it for the rest of your short life. There are rules for dealing with this area. They are mandatory because radiation is physics – it works without regard to status or shoulder straps. With minimal intelligence in command or soldiers, these consequences could have been avoided,” Yemelianenko said. Also read | Zelensky says Ukraine preparing for new Russian offensive in the east Staff at the site earlier said that the invading troops have been sent on a “suicide” mission, added that their vehicles and equipment had no anti-radiation protection. Speaking to Reuters, one worker on duty, when the Russians seized control of the area, said the convoy had kicked up clouds of radioactive dust while driving through the highly toxic ‘Red Forest’, which got its name when dozens of square kilometres of pine trees turned red after absorbing radiation from the 1986 explosion. Watch | Russians drove through 'Red Forest', Chernobyl workers report incident from last February (With inputs from agencies)

Russian forces leaving Chernobyl nuclear site hit by radiation sickness: Reports

Russia has not been able to capture any major Ukrainian city. More than a month after it first invaded its neighbor, in the past few days, several western reports have been doing rounds that Russia has changed its strategy in Ukraine.

Is Moscow changing its strategy in Ukraine?

A radio jockey from Kazakhstan was fired for suggesting that Russian President Vladimir Putin could invade the Central Asian country during a heated Facebook debate with a user who criticised the Ukraine war.

“We will call in Uncle Vova if you talk too much,” Europa Plus Kazakhstan radio station host Lyubov Panova said in her Facebook comments while supporting Russia and Putin.

The admirers of Vladimir affectionately call him “Vova”.

However, the comments drew wide condemnation, following which netizens demanded that the radio host be penalised.

Following a huge uproar, Europa Plus Kazakhstan terminated her contract on Monday, reported the Reuters.

Deputy Prosecutor General Bulat Dembayev issued a statement warning social media users against making comments that call for Kazakhs to join the Russia-Ukraine conflict or incite ethnic hatred.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-top-independent-newspaper-co-founded-gorbachev-ceases-operations-after-warnings-466444" hreflang="en">Russia’s top independent newspaper, co-founded by Gorbachev, ceases operations after warnings</a>

“Moreover, some social network users, including Kazakh citizens … publish separatist slogans that refer to the territorial integrity of our country,” he said, warning that such actions constitute a crime.

Kazakhstan, a former Soviet republic, shares the world's second-longest land border with Russia and has close economic and political ties with Moscow, being a member of Russian-led trade and military blocs.

So far, Kazakhstan has avoided taking sides on Russia's invasion of Ukraine, although President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said this month that all countries must strictly adhere to the norms and principles of the UN Charter.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/retaliatory-visa-measures-russia-set-to-restrict-entry-of-nationals-from-unfriendly-countries-466435" hreflang="en">Russia set to restrict entry of nationals from 'unfriendly' countries</a>

In fact, the deputy foreign minister told a German newspaper that companies leaving Russia due to the war in Ukraine were welcome to move production to Kazakhstan, saying Kazakhstan would not want to be on the wrong side of a new "iron curtain".

The foreign ministry last month signalled its neutrality in the Ukraine conflict and said it is not considering recognition of two Russia-backed separatist entities in eastern Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

A radio jockey from Kazakhstan was fired for suggesting that Russian President Vladimir Putin could invade the Central Asian country during a heated Facebook debate with a user who criticised the Ukraine war.

A radio jockey from Kazakhstan was fired for suggesting that Russian President Vladimir Putin could invade the Central Asian country during a heated Facebook debate with a user who criticised the Ukraine war. “We will call in Uncle Vova if you talk too much,” Europa Plus Kazakhstan radio station host Lyubov Panova said in her Facebook comments while supporting Russia and Putin. The admirers of Vladimir affectionately call him “Vova”. However, the comments drew wide condemnation, following which netizens demanded that the radio host be penalised. Following a huge uproar, Europa Plus Kazakhstan terminated her contract on Monday, reported the Reuters. Deputy Prosecutor General Bulat Dembayev issued a statement warning social media users against making comments that call for Kazakhs to join the Russia-Ukraine conflict or incite ethnic hatred. Also read | Russia’s top independent newspaper, co-founded by Gorbachev, ceases operations after warnings “Moreover, some social network users, including Kazakh citizens … publish separatist slogans that refer to the territorial integrity of our country,” he said, warning that such actions constitute a crime. Kazakhstan, a former Soviet republic, shares the world's second-longest land border with Russia and has close economic and political ties with Moscow, being a member of Russian-led trade and military blocs. So far, Kazakhstan has avoided taking sides on Russia's invasion of Ukraine, although President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said this month that all countries must strictly adhere to the norms and principles of the UN Charter. Also read | Russia set to restrict entry of nationals from 'unfriendly' countries In fact, the deputy foreign minister told a German newspaper that companies leaving Russia due to the war in Ukraine were welcome to move production to Kazakhstan, saying Kazakhstan would not want to be on the wrong side of a new "iron curtain". The foreign ministry last month signalled its neutrality in the Ukraine conflict and said it is not considering recognition of two Russia-backed separatist entities in eastern Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Kazakh radio host calls on ‘Uncle’ Putin to invade country, fired

Ever since the Russian invasion of Ukraine started last month, there have been concerns raised over whether the conflict could spill over the Ukrainian border.&nbsp;

Given the impact that the Ukraine invasion has had on the security environment in the region, Estonia —which shares a border with Russia —has called for NATO to build up a permanent force in the region that is capable of stopping the Russian offensive

In an exclusive conversation, when WION asked Eva-Maria Liimets, the Foreign Minister of Estonia, if she is worried that Vladimir Putin will not stop at Ukraine, the minister said, “We truly hope that this unprovoked and unjustified war started by Russia will end as soon as possible. So that we will not see any more civilian casualties and also that Ukraine could restore its territorial integrity. Here in Estonia, we don't see that there is a direct military threat to any of the NATO countries."

The minister added, "But as we have seen, Russia has a very aggressive approach towards its neighbours, towards democratic countries in the neighbourhood. We, of course, are a bit worried that we need to have a stronger defence posture so we don't give any reasoning for any miscalculations."

There are around 320,000 ethnic Russians in Estonia. When asked about the sentiment prevailing within that community over Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the Estonian foreign minister said, “This community is well integrated and of course, there are different views among these people. But the majority of them support Estonian views on this issue.”

Talking about China, the minister said it is "very important that China and other countries would really help us to end this war and also pressure Russia to end this war."

Western nations have warned that Russia could be preparing to use chemical or biological weapons in Ukraine. When asked about her views on this, Eva-Maria Liimets said, "It is really difficult to predict how this war in Ukraine continues. But I personally and truly hope that Russia stops the violation of international law, the UN Charter, and also other agreements related to peace and security. I truly hope that the international community comes together and helps to avoid another massacre where chemical weapons are used.”

The minister also sent out a solidarity message to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky through WION.

The minister said, “We continue to support your country politically, also towards your aspiration towards EU (membership). We continue to support your country economically. We continue to support your people. We truly hope the war ends, that your country can restore its territorial integrity within the internationally recognised borders."

"I would ask the Russian president to end this unjustified and unprovoked war,” she added.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;'China needs to put pressure on Russia to end war,' says Estonian foreign minister Eva-Maria Liimets

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Ever since the Russian invasion of Ukraine started last month, there have been concerns raised over whether the conflict could spill over the Ukrainian border. Given the impact that the Ukraine invasion has had on the security environment in the region, Estonia —which shares a border with Russia —has called for NATO to build up a permanent force in the region that is capable of stopping the Russian offensive In an exclusive conversation, when WION asked Eva-Maria Liimets, the Foreign Minister of Estonia, if she is worried that Vladimir Putin will not stop at Ukraine, the minister said, “We truly hope that this unprovoked and unjustified war started by Russia will end as soon as possible.

Ever since the Russian invasion of Ukraine started last month, there have been concerns raised over whether the conflict could spill over the Ukrainian border. Given the impact that the Ukraine invasion has had on the security environment in the region, Estonia —which shares a border with Russia —has called for NATO to build up a permanent force in the region that is capable of stopping the Russian offensive In an exclusive conversation, when WION asked Eva-Maria Liimets, the Foreign Minister of Estonia, if she is worried that Vladimir Putin will not stop at Ukraine, the minister said, “We truly hope that this unprovoked and unjustified war started by Russia will end as soon as possible. So that we will not see any more civilian casualties and also that Ukraine could restore its territorial integrity. Here in Estonia, we don't see that there is a direct military threat to any of the NATO countries." The minister added, "But as we have seen, Russia has a very aggressive approach towards its neighbours, towards democratic countries in the neighbourhood. We, of course, are a bit worried that we need to have a stronger defence posture so we don't give any reasoning for any miscalculations." There are around 320,000 ethnic Russians in Estonia. When asked about the sentiment prevailing within that community over Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the Estonian foreign minister said, “This community is well integrated and of course, there are different views among these people. But the majority of them support Estonian views on this issue.” Talking about China, the minister said it is "very important that China and other countries would really help us to end this war and also pressure Russia to end this war." Western nations have warned that Russia could be preparing to use chemical or biological weapons in Ukraine. When asked about her views on this, Eva-Maria Liimets said, "It is really difficult to predict how this war in Ukraine continues. But I personally and truly hope that Russia stops the violation of international law, the UN Charter, and also other agreements related to peace and security. I truly hope that the international community comes together and helps to avoid another massacre where chemical weapons are used.” The minister also sent out a solidarity message to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky through WION. The minister said, “We continue to support your country politically, also towards your aspiration towards EU (membership). We continue to support your country economically. We continue to support your people. We truly hope the war ends, that your country can restore its territorial integrity within the internationally recognised borders." "I would ask the Russian president to end this unjustified and unprovoked war,” she added. Watch | 'China needs to put pressure on Russia to end war,' says Estonian foreign minister Eva-Maria Liimets

Estonian foreign minister to WION: China, other countries must pressure Russia to end Ukraine war

Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov is expected to visit India, a visit that comes amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The visit will be the first high-level meeting since the Ukraine invasion.

Ukraine-Russia crisis: Russian foreign minister Lavrov likely to visit India

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has increased the strategic burden on China, according to a senior Pentagon official, because Russian troops have been on the offensive in Ukraine for the better part of the month-long war. 
 
"I do think that there`s a degree to which what Putin has done in Ukraine makes Russia much more of a strategic burden for Beijing than it was six weeks ago or six months ago," Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Colin Kahl said. 
 
China's government has swung toward Russia, voicing support for Moscow's complaints about Nato expansion while hesitating to label its activities as an invasion.

However, while Beijing's censors are working hard to keep any criticism of that viewpoint out of the public eye, the disagreement has sparked passionate debate among Chinese policy specialists and the general public.

Analysts say the argument demonstrates the tensions created by a confrontation between Chinese diplomatic values and alignment with Russia, as Beijing tries to assess how the war would effect its interests.&nbsp; 
 
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-accuses-russia-of-using-phosphorus-bombs-to-kill-civilians-465207">Ukraine accuses Russia of using phosphorus bombs to kill civilians</a>

Following standoffs over Ukraine and Taiwan, China and Russia declared a "no limits" alliance in February, promising to work together more against the West. 
 
According to a senior US defence official, Ukrainian army pushed Russian forces positioned outside the capital city of Kyiv for weeks as far as 15 miles further back in a massive counteroffensive on Wednesday. 
 
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/one-month-since-russia-invaded-ukraine-hundreds-dead-millions-displaced-when-will-it-end-465149" hreflang="en">One month since Russia invaded Ukraine: Hundreds dead, millions displaced - When will it end?</a> 
 
To provide a battlefield update, the official spoke on the condition of anonymity. 
 
Russian forces have advanced nearly 40 kilometres from the capital. 
 
Watch | Ukrainian Female Footballers have found a new training ground

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukrainian-female-footballers-have-found-a-new-training-ground-465290/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has increased the strategic burden on China, according to a senior Pentagon official, because Russian troops have been on the offensive in Ukraine for the better part of the month-long war.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has increased the strategic burden on China, according to a senior Pentagon official, because Russian troops have been on the offensive in Ukraine for the better part of the month-long war. "I do think that there`s a degree to which what Putin has done in Ukraine makes Russia much more of a strategic burden for Beijing than it was six weeks ago or six months ago," Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Colin Kahl said. China's government has swung toward Russia, voicing support for Moscow's complaints about Nato expansion while hesitating to label its activities as an invasion. However, while Beijing's censors are working hard to keep any criticism of that viewpoint out of the public eye, the disagreement has sparked passionate debate among Chinese policy specialists and the general public. Analysts say the argument demonstrates the tensions created by a confrontation between Chinese diplomatic values and alignment with Russia, as Beijing tries to assess how the war would effect its interests. Also Read: Ukraine accuses Russia of using phosphorus bombs to kill civilians Following standoffs over Ukraine and Taiwan, China and Russia declared a "no limits" alliance in February, promising to work together more against the West. According to a senior US defence official, Ukrainian army pushed Russian forces positioned outside the capital city of Kyiv for weeks as far as 15 miles further back in a massive counteroffensive on Wednesday. Also Read: One month since Russia invaded Ukraine: Hundreds dead, millions displaced - When will it end? To provide a battlefield update, the official spoke on the condition of anonymity. Russian forces have advanced nearly 40 kilometres from the capital. Watch | Ukrainian Female Footballers have found a new training ground (With inputs from agencies)

Pentagon says Russia more of a burden to China after Ukraine invasion

As the Russian-Ukraine war&nbsp;rages on, several donation pages have emerged in the dark web asking for funds in cryptocurrencies for the Ukrainian cause.

Check Point Research, the threat intelligence arm of the cybersecurity solutions provider, has reported that while some are running genuine donation&nbsp;services, many fake ads have flooded the dark web.

The darknet is a part of the internet that is invisible to search engines and can only be accessed through anonymous browsers.

Several prominent organisations like BBC and Twitter have been using the dark web to bring regular updates to Russia as their services have been restricted in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

However, in the midst of all these, several scammers have been running fake donation camps to collect money with&nbsp;‘Help Ukraine’ advertisements.

“CPR has always taken a close look at the Darknet. Last year, we found advertisements for fake coronavirus services. Now, we’re seeing donation scams appear on the Darknet, as the Russia-Ukraine conflict intensifies," says Oded Vanunu, head of product vulnerabilities research at Check Point Software.

One such ad featured a mother and her children, who were in bad shape and needed money to escape the war-torn country. However, the image was unrelated and was taken out of context from a German newspaper, Vanunu said.

It said that sites such as Defend Ukraine, and an accompanying Twitter account has been found to be reliable.

The website contains a list of organisations and NGOs in Ukraine in need of assistance and solicits donations in both bitcoin and ethereum. It has received over $9m in funding since being registered in February 2022.

As the Russian-Ukraine war rages on, several donation pages have emerged in the dark web asking for funds in cryptocurrencies for the Ukrainian cause. Check Point Research, the threat intelligence arm of the cybersecurity solutions provider, has reported that while some are running genuine donation services, many fake ads have flooded the dark web.

As the Russian-Ukraine war rages on, several donation pages have emerged in the dark web asking for funds in cryptocurrencies for the Ukrainian cause. Check Point Research, the threat intelligence arm of the cybersecurity solutions provider, has reported that while some are running genuine donation services, many fake ads have flooded the dark web. The darknet is a part of the internet that is invisible to search engines and can only be accessed through anonymous browsers. Several prominent organisations like BBC and Twitter have been using the dark web to bring regular updates to Russia as their services have been restricted in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, in the midst of all these, several scammers have been running fake donation camps to collect money with ‘Help Ukraine’ advertisements. “CPR has always taken a close look at the Darknet. Last year, we found advertisements for fake coronavirus services. Now, we’re seeing donation scams appear on the Darknet, as the Russia-Ukraine conflict intensifies," says Oded Vanunu, head of product vulnerabilities research at Check Point Software. One such ad featured a mother and her children, who were in bad shape and needed money to escape the war-torn country. However, the image was unrelated and was taken out of context from a German newspaper, Vanunu said. It said that sites such as Defend Ukraine, and an accompanying Twitter account has been found to be reliable. The website contains a list of organisations and NGOs in Ukraine in need of assistance and solicits donations in both bitcoin and ethereum. It has received over $9m in funding since being registered in February 2022.

Cashing in on Ukrainian war: Scammers running crypto scam on dark web, says report

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Russia’s ally Belarus could soon join Vladimir Putin’s war against Ukraine, CNN reports citing officials from US and NATO.

The news outlet, quoting sources from the Belarus opposition, claimed that thousands of Belarusian forces are prepared to be deployed and can land Ukraine any time in the “next few days”.

“(Russian President Vladimir) Putin needs support. Anything would help,” a NATO military official told CNN.

Another NATO intelligence official alleged that the Belarusian government “is preparing the environment to justify a Belarusian offensive against Ukraine."

This latest development comes a month after Belarus changed its constitution last month to allow the country to host both Russian forces and nuclear weapons permanently.

As the Russian-Ukraine war entered the 28th day, the UK intelligence report said that Russian troops have been facing stiff resistance due to which it has been unable to capture the capital Kyiv.

“Russian forces advancing on the city from the northeast have stalled. Forces advancing from the direction of Hostomel to the northwest have been repulsed by fierce Ukrainian resistance.” the ministry of defence said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-putins-girlfriend-and-why-is-she-trending-amidst-russia-ukraine-war-464880">Who is Putin’s girlfriend? And why is she trending amidst Russia-Ukraine war?</a>

Oleksandr Markushyn, mayor of the Kyiv suburb of Irpin, said the Ukrainian armed forces, territorial defence and police "have 80 per cent of our city under control."

Meanwhile, Ukrainian presidential adviser Oleksiy Arestovych on Wednesday said that he expected the active phase of the Russian invasion to be over by the end of April as the Russian advance had already stalled in many areas, Reuters reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-spies-in-poland-country-expels-45-russian-diplomats-for-espionage-464868">Russian spies in Poland?: Country expels 45 Russian diplomats for espionage</a>

Speaking on local television, Arestovych said Russia had already lost 40 per cent of its attacking forces, and also played down the prospect of Russia waging nuclear war.

Reuters, however, said it could not independently verify his statements.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia reiterates 'nuclear threat', will use weapons if required

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-reiterates-nuclear-threat-will-use-weapons-if-required-464885/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russia’s ally Belarus could soon join Vladimir Putin’s war against Ukraine, CNN reports citing officials from US and NATO. The news outlet, quoting sources from the Belarus opposition, claimed that thousands of Belarusian forces are prepared to be deployed and can land Ukraine any time in the “next few days”. “(Russian President Vladimir) Putin needs support. Anything would help,” a NATO military official told CNN. Another NATO intelligence official alleged that the Belarusian government “is preparing the environment to justify a Belarusian offensive against Ukraine." This latest development comes a month after Belarus changed its constitution last month to allow the country to host both Russian forces and nuclear weapons permanently. As the Russian-Ukraine war entered the 28th day, the UK intelligence report said that Russian troops have been facing stiff resistance due to which it has been unable to capture the capital Kyiv. “Russian forces advancing on the city from the northeast have stalled. Forces advancing from the direction of Hostomel to the northwest have been repulsed by fierce Ukrainian resistance.” the ministry of defence said in a statement. Also read | Who is Putin’s girlfriend? And why is she trending amidst Russia-Ukraine war? Oleksandr Markushyn, mayor of the Kyiv suburb of Irpin, said the Ukrainian armed forces, territorial defence and police "have 80 per cent of our city under control." Meanwhile, Ukrainian presidential adviser Oleksiy Arestovych on Wednesday said that he expected the active phase of the Russian invasion to be over by the end of April as the Russian advance had already stalled in many areas, Reuters reported. Also read | Russian spies in Poland?: Country expels 45 Russian diplomats for espionage Speaking on local television, Arestovych said Russia had already lost 40 per cent of its attacking forces, and also played down the prospect of Russia waging nuclear war. Reuters, however, said it could not independently verify his statements. Watch | Russia reiterates 'nuclear threat', will use weapons if required (With inputs from agencies)

Belarus could join Russia’s war against Ukraine ‘in next few days’: Report

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Amidst the Russian-Ukraine war that is set complete a month, calls are growing for Russian President Vladamir Putin’s rumoured girlfriend to be expelled from her luxurious house in Switzerland.

The opponents of Putin&nbsp;have launched a petition on change.org urging the Swiss to extradite 38-year-old Alina Kabaeva, a former athlete, claiming that she is hiding with their secret children in a luxury villa, reports Mirror.

The petition in German, French and English, is said to have attracted almost 55,000 signatures and has mostly citizens from Ukraine, Russia, and its ally Belarus.

Comparing Kabaeva to Hilter’s wife, the petition says, “It's time you reunite Eva Braun with her Führer.”

“Despite the current war, Switzerland continues to host an accomplice of Putin's regime,” it adds, as it lists Kabaeva’s many crimes.

It added that it was time for the neutral country “to take action” and send her home to Putin, 69.

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It is being claimed that the Olympic gold medallist was sent to a private chalet in Switzerland earlier this month amidst the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

However, a separate report suggests that Kabaeva is rather housed at a hi-tech underground bunker in the Altai Mountains of Siberia.

She has released only one statement linked to the war where she slammed the refusal to allow the Russian team to compete at the Beijing Paralympics.

Who is Kabaeva?

Kabaeva, an Olympic gold medallist, is known as Russia’s “most flexible woman”. There are claims that Putin and she got married in a secret ceremony after he divorced his first wife Lyudmila in 2013.

However, the Kremlin has always dismissed all the reports as rumours.

The former gymnast enjoys quite a few privileges in Russia. She spent six years as a member of parliament in Putin’s United Russia Party.

In September 2014, she quit the party to take charge of Russia’s National Media Group, which had a stake in Channel One, one of the state-controlled television channels, along with other newspapers. She headed the media holding for more than even years, where she earned an annual salary of £8 million, reports the British tabloid&nbsp;Daily Mail.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Amidst the Russian-Ukraine war that is set complete a month, calls are growing for Russian President Vladamir Putin’s rumoured girlfriend to be expelled from her luxurious house in Switzerland. The opponents of Putin have launched a petition on change.org urging the Swiss to extradite 38-year-old Alina Kabaeva, a former athlete, claiming that she is hiding with their secret children in a luxury villa, reports Mirror. The petition in German, French and English, is said to have attracted almost 55,000 signatures and has mostly citizens from Ukraine, Russia, and its ally Belarus. Comparing Kabaeva to Hilter’s wife, the petition says, “It's time you reunite Eva Braun with her Führer.” “Despite the current war, Switzerland continues to host an accomplice of Putin's regime,” it adds, as it lists Kabaeva’s many crimes. It added that it was time for the neutral country “to take action” and send her home to Putin, 69. View this post on Instagram A post shared by АЛИНА КАБАЕВА |ФАН-СООБЩЕСТВО| (@alinakabaeva.official) × It is being claimed that the Olympic gold medallist was sent to a private chalet in Switzerland earlier this month amidst the Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, a separate report suggests that Kabaeva is rather housed at a hi-tech underground bunker in the Altai Mountains of Siberia. She has released only one statement linked to the war where she slammed the refusal to allow the Russian team to compete at the Beijing Paralympics. Who is Kabaeva? Kabaeva, an Olympic gold medallist, is known as Russia’s “most flexible woman”. There are claims that Putin and she got married in a secret ceremony after he divorced his first wife Lyudmila in 2013. However, the Kremlin has always dismissed all the reports as rumours. The former gymnast enjoys quite a few privileges in Russia. She spent six years as a member of parliament in Putin’s United Russia Party. In September 2014, she quit the party to take charge of Russia’s National Media Group, which had a stake in Channel One, one of the state-controlled television channels, along with other newspapers. She headed the media holding for more than even years, where she earned an annual salary of £8 million, reports the British tabloid Daily Mail. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Putin’s girlfriend? And why is she trending amidst Russia-Ukraine war?

For a suburban-Chicago toy company, it has been unbelievable lately. The owner says what started out as a simple fundraising idea quickly ballooned into something much bigger and now, they've raised a whopping amount for Ukraine.

How art is combating war in Ukraine?

No agreement has been reached so far at the Russian-Ukrainian peace talks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday.

Calling on the countries to exert influence over Ukraine to make Kyiv more constructive at the negotiations, Peskov said significant progress in the talks is yet to be achieved to enable a possible meeting between President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky.

"So far, no significant progress has been made. So far, [it is early] to talk about the meeting of the two presidents, they will simply have nothing to fix. There are no agreements that they can fix," Peskov told reporters, according to Sputnik news agency.

Every actor in the world should now use their influence on Kyiv to make it more willing to reach agreements, the spokesman added.

"Actually, the choice of a place for some such hypothetical meeting is a secondary issue, although we are certainly grateful to all those countries that declare their desire to help such a negotiation process," he added.

The Kremlin’s reaction came a day after Zelensky expressed willingness to negotiate with Putin.

He, however, added that the negotiations could lead to a much bigger global conflict if the talks break down.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-heavy-bombardment-follows-mariupol-forced-to-bury-dead-on-roadside-in-makeshift-graves-464161">As heavy bombardment follows, Mariupol forced to bury dead on roadside</a>

“I’m ready for negotiations with him. I was ready for the last two years. And I think that without negotiations we cannot end this war,” Zelensky told CNN in an interview.

“I think that we have to use any format, any chance in order to have a possibility of negotiating, the possibility of talking to Putin. But if these attempts fail, that would mean that this is a third World War.”

Meanwhile, Russian bombings continue to pummel Ukraine as the war entered 26th&nbsp;day on Monday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-us-president-biden-to-visit-poland-on-europe-trip-this-week-464181">Ukraine-Russia conflict: US President Biden to visit Poland this week</a>

More Russian troops are heading towards Kyiv, as per reports, as renewed overnight shelling killed at least eight people at a shopping mall in the capital.

Almost 350,000 people are trapped without water and electricity in the port city of Mariupol, which has been bombarded by Russian troops for almost a month in what has been described as a "massive war crime" by EU policy chief Josep Borrell.

Ukrainian leaders also stressed they were standing firm against invaders in Mariupol, which is suffering a critical humanitarian crisis.

(With inputs from agencies)

No agreement has been reached so far at the Russian-Ukrainian peace talks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday. Calling on the countries to exert influence over Ukraine to make Kyiv more constructive at the negotiations, Peskov said significant progress in the talks is yet to be achieved to enable a possible meeting between President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky.

No agreement has been reached so far at the Russian-Ukrainian peace talks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday. Calling on the countries to exert influence over Ukraine to make Kyiv more constructive at the negotiations, Peskov said significant progress in the talks is yet to be achieved to enable a possible meeting between President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky. "So far, no significant progress has been made. So far, [it is early] to talk about the meeting of the two presidents, they will simply have nothing to fix. There are no agreements that they can fix," Peskov told reporters, according to Sputnik news agency. Every actor in the world should now use their influence on Kyiv to make it more willing to reach agreements, the spokesman added. "Actually, the choice of a place for some such hypothetical meeting is a secondary issue, although we are certainly grateful to all those countries that declare their desire to help such a negotiation process," he added. The Kremlin’s reaction came a day after Zelensky expressed willingness to negotiate with Putin. He, however, added that the negotiations could lead to a much bigger global conflict if the talks break down. Also read | As heavy bombardment follows, Mariupol forced to bury dead on roadside “I’m ready for negotiations with him. I was ready for the last two years. And I think that without negotiations we cannot end this war,” Zelensky told CNN in an interview. “I think that we have to use any format, any chance in order to have a possibility of negotiating, the possibility of talking to Putin. But if these attempts fail, that would mean that this is a third World War.” Meanwhile, Russian bombings continue to pummel Ukraine as the war entered 26th day on Monday. Also read | Ukraine-Russia conflict: US President Biden to visit Poland this week More Russian troops are heading towards Kyiv, as per reports, as renewed overnight shelling killed at least eight people at a shopping mall in the capital. Almost 350,000 people are trapped without water and electricity in the port city of Mariupol, which has been bombarded by Russian troops for almost a month in what has been described as a "massive war crime" by EU policy chief Josep Borrell. Ukrainian leaders also stressed they were standing firm against invaders in Mariupol, which is suffering a critical humanitarian crisis. (With inputs from agencies)

No breakthrough yet at Russia-Ukraine peace talks, says Kremlin

At a time when Russian citizens are facing numerous issues triggered by sanctions, Russian President Vladimir Putin, while giving speech at huge pro-invasion rally, donned a Loro Piana jacket. &nbsp;

The clothing is worth nearly 1.5 million Russian roubles, which is equivalent to around $13,181 or £10,200. It is also worth around 25 times the average monthly salary of Russians. &nbsp;

The 69-year-old president vowed to fight for the 'universal values' of all Russians in an expensive jacket&nbsp;when citizens face poverty. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-ukraine-claims-to-block-russian-forces-advance-into-kyiv-463637" hreflang="en">LIVE | Ukraine claims to block Russian forces' advance into Kyiv</a>

In Russia, many designer shops have already shuttered but still the president could get the luxury Italian coat when the country's economy has crashed dismally. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The sanctions imposed by Western nations over Ukraine invasion have forced Russians to deal with a huge financial crisis. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-conflict-time-for-meaningful-talks-says-president-volodymyr-zelenskiy-463642">Ukraine-Russia conflict: Time for meaningful talks, says President Zelensky</a>

As of March 11, the annual inflation in Russia has risen to 12.54 per cent, which is a big reason to worry for citizens living under Putin's regime. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Yulia Shimelevich, who is a 55-year-old French tutor in Moscow, said, "My life has already collapsed. All the luxuries that we had grown accustomed to, in recent years, like imported products and clothes, are already in the past. The hardest part will not be tightening our belts... but separation from my son and a feeling of guilt in front of the whole world." &nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

At a time when Russian citizens are facing numerous issues triggered by sanctions, Russian President Vladimir Putin, while giving speech at huge pro-invasion rally, donned a Loro Piana jacket.

At a time when Russian citizens are facing numerous issues triggered by sanctions, Russian President Vladimir Putin, while giving speech at huge pro-invasion rally, donned a Loro Piana jacket. The clothing is worth nearly 1.5 million Russian roubles, which is equivalent to around $13,181 or £10,200. It is also worth around 25 times the average monthly salary of Russians. The 69-year-old president vowed to fight for the 'universal values' of all Russians in an expensive jacket when citizens face poverty. Also Read: LIVE | Ukraine claims to block Russian forces' advance into Kyiv In Russia, many designer shops have already shuttered but still the president could get the luxury Italian coat when the country's economy has crashed dismally. The sanctions imposed by Western nations over Ukraine invasion have forced Russians to deal with a huge financial crisis. Also Read | Ukraine-Russia conflict: Time for meaningful talks, says President Zelensky As of March 11, the annual inflation in Russia has risen to 12.54 per cent, which is a big reason to worry for citizens living under Putin's regime. Yulia Shimelevich, who is a 55-year-old French tutor in Moscow, said, "My life has already collapsed. All the luxuries that we had grown accustomed to, in recent years, like imported products and clothes, are already in the past. The hardest part will not be tightening our belts... but separation from my son and a feeling of guilt in front of the whole world." (With inputs from agencies)

As Russians face financial crisis, President Vladimir Putin dons costly Loro Piana jacket in pro-war rally

A Russian military strike on barracks at southern Mykolaiv city of Ukraine claimed 50 lives, while 50 more are feared to be dead, AFP reported quoting officials and witnesses on the ground.

According to reports, six rockets hit the site which originally had served as a young officers' academy around 6 am on Friday.

"An enormous explosion," one resident, Nikolai told AFP. The blast reduced to rubble several buildings in the district.

“No less than 200 soldiers were sleeping in the&nbsp;barracks," said Maxim, 22, who had been stationed nearby and looks on aghast at the scale of the destruction.

"At least 50 bodies have been pulled out, but we don't know how many remain under the debris," he added.

Another soldier, Yevgeny, says as many as 100 people could have been killed, in the attack. So far, no official statement has been issued on the number of casualties.

According to Ukrainian authorities, Mykolaiv, which has been described as&nbsp;a “shield” to the key strategic&nbsp;military&nbsp;port of Odessa, had been resisting the Russian assaults.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-vlogger-in-ukraine-branded-national-traitor-for-siding-with-kyiv-in-russian-war-463803">Chinese vlogger in Ukraine branded ‘national traitor’ for siding with Kyiv in Russian war</a>

Meanwhile, on the 24th day of the invasion of Ukraine, the Russian military stepped its attack on several cities, primarily targeting arm&nbsp;depots in Ukraine.

Moscow acknowledged that it had been using hypersonic missiles to break Ukrainian defences.

Russia's announcement came hours after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky again appealed for peace, urging Russia to accept "meaningful" talks in his latest Facebook video.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/telegram-emerges-as-frontrunner-amid-russias-crackdown-on-facebook-instagram-463783" hreflang="en">Telegram emerges as frontrunner amid Russia’s crackdown on Facebook, Instagram</a>

The UN human rights office (OHCHR) said on Saturday said that at least 847 civilians had been killed and 1,399 wounded in Ukraine as of March 18.

More than 3.3 million refugees have now fled Ukraine since the Russian invasion, the United Nations said Saturday, while nearly 6.5 million are thought to be internally displaced within the country.

Watch |&nbsp;Day 24 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine: Fighting continues across Ukraine

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/day-24-of-the-russian-invasion-of-ukraine-fighting-continues-across-ukraine-463877/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

A Russian military strike on barracks at southern Mykolaiv city of Ukraine claimed 50 lives, while 50 more are feared to be dead, AFP reported quoting officials and witnesses on the ground.

A Russian military strike on barracks at southern Mykolaiv city of Ukraine claimed 50 lives, while 50 more are feared to be dead, AFP reported quoting officials and witnesses on the ground. According to reports, six rockets hit the site which originally had served as a young officers' academy around 6 am on Friday. "An enormous explosion," one resident, Nikolai told AFP. The blast reduced to rubble several buildings in the district. “No less than 200 soldiers were sleeping in the barracks," said Maxim, 22, who had been stationed nearby and looks on aghast at the scale of the destruction. "At least 50 bodies have been pulled out, but we don't know how many remain under the debris," he added. Another soldier, Yevgeny, says as many as 100 people could have been killed, in the attack. So far, no official statement has been issued on the number of casualties. According to Ukrainian authorities, Mykolaiv, which has been described as a “shield” to the key strategic military port of Odessa, had been resisting the Russian assaults. Also read | Chinese vlogger in Ukraine branded ‘national traitor’ for siding with Kyiv in Russian war Meanwhile, on the 24th day of the invasion of Ukraine, the Russian military stepped its attack on several cities, primarily targeting arm depots in Ukraine. Moscow acknowledged that it had been using hypersonic missiles to break Ukrainian defences. Russia's announcement came hours after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky again appealed for peace, urging Russia to accept "meaningful" talks in his latest Facebook video. Also read | Telegram emerges as frontrunner amid Russia’s crackdown on Facebook, Instagram The UN human rights office (OHCHR) said on Saturday said that at least 847 civilians had been killed and 1,399 wounded in Ukraine as of March 18. More than 3.3 million refugees have now fled Ukraine since the Russian invasion, the United Nations said Saturday, while nearly 6.5 million are thought to be internally displaced within the country. Watch | Day 24 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine: Fighting continues across Ukraine (With inputs from agencies)

Around 100 feared dead in Russian attack on military barracks in southern Ukraine: Report

Russia's invasion of Ukraine entered day 22. Kyiv has drawn the red lines for Russian negotiators. Meanwhile, at the ICJ - Indian judge Justice Dalveer Bhandari voted in Ukraine's favour. ICJ called on Russia to suspend its offensive. Palki Sharma brings you the updates.

Gravitas: Ukraine Invasion: Russia intensifies aerial attacks

Since last November, Russia has been gathering troops near Ukraine border. There were months of speculations, back-to back diplomatic talks, calculations, assessments but no one imagined that it would lead to this. WION's Anas Mallick has been reporting from the war-ravaged nation, bringing you exclusive ground zero reports.

Ukraine under attack: WION's Anas Mallick on ground zero tracking all sides of Russian invasion

For three weeks now, Russian invasion of Ukraine has dominated headlines - how Ukraine is resisting the Russians aggression, how civilians have taken up arms to defend their country and how Europe is facing its biggest security crisis since the cold war.

Russian Invasion continues, 'No NATO' for Ukraine says Zelenskyy

Boris Johnson has blamed his western predecessors for making "terrible mistakes" after the invasion of Crimea in 2014. How did the West respond after Crimea? Is Boris Johnson's response any better? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: Boris Johnson blames western leaders for emboldening Putin

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Russia has sought military assistance from China in Ukraine, a US official has reportedly said.

According to New York Times, the US officials have&nbsp;however not disclosed what type of weapon has been requested.

The US newspaper, quoting the official, also claimed that Kremlin has asked China for economic assistance in the wake of sanctions imposed by the West.

There are already reports of Russian banks tying up with the Chinese counterparts on the possibility of issuing “co-badged” cards powered by payment systems like Chinese state-owned UnionPay and Russia’s Mir for international payments, after Visa and Mastercard ceased operations in Russia.

China has, however, refuted claims of Moscow seeking weapons. Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in the US, said in a statement, "I've never heard of that."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-journalist-shot-dead-in-ukraine-another-wounded-461933">US journalist shot dead in Ukraine, another wounded: Report</a>

“The high priority now is to prevent the tense situation from escalating or even getting out of control. ... China calls for exercising utmost restraint and preventing a massive humanitarian crisis,” CNN quoted the statement as saying.

Meanwhile, US national security adviser Jake Sullivan, who is planning to meet Chinese counterpart Yang Jiechi this week, warned China against providing any support to Russia to counter global sanctions.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-can-plan-chemical-weapons-operations-behind-lies-about-biological-weapons-laboratories-nato-461865">Russia may use chemical weapons, says NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg</a>

"We are communicating directly, privately to Beijing that there will absolutely be consequences for large-scale sanctions evasion efforts or support to Russia to backfill them," Sullivan told CNN on Sunday.

"We will not allow that to go forward and allow there to be a lifeline to Russia from these economic sanctions from any country, anywhere in the world," he was quoted as saying.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russia has sought military assistance from China in Ukraine, a US official has reportedly said. According to New York Times, the US officials have however not disclosed what type of weapon has been requested. The US newspaper, quoting the official, also claimed that Kremlin has asked China for economic assistance in the wake of sanctions imposed by the West. There are already reports of Russian banks tying up with the Chinese counterparts on the possibility of issuing “co-badged” cards powered by payment systems like Chinese state-owned UnionPay and Russia’s Mir for international payments, after Visa and Mastercard ceased operations in Russia. China has, however, refuted claims of Moscow seeking weapons. Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in the US, said in a statement, "I've never heard of that." Also read | US journalist shot dead in Ukraine, another wounded: Report “The high priority now is to prevent the tense situation from escalating or even getting out of control. ... China calls for exercising utmost restraint and preventing a massive humanitarian crisis,” CNN quoted the statement as saying. Meanwhile, US national security adviser Jake Sullivan, who is planning to meet Chinese counterpart Yang Jiechi this week, warned China against providing any support to Russia to counter global sanctions. Also read | Russia may use chemical weapons, says NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg "We are communicating directly, privately to Beijing that there will absolutely be consequences for large-scale sanctions evasion efforts or support to Russia to backfill them," Sullivan told CNN on Sunday. "We will not allow that to go forward and allow there to be a lifeline to Russia from these economic sanctions from any country, anywhere in the world," he was quoted as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

US warns China against providing any support to Russia in the ongoing Ukraine conflict

WION reports from ground zero, we get you all the voices from Ukrainian capital Kyiv. How long can Kyiv resist the Russian assault? WION gets you the complete picture.

Ukraine under attack | WION on ground zero tracking all sides of Russian invasion

Amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Belgium's Ambassador to India François Delhaye has said that his country has been asking to India to “clearly condemn war by Russia".

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is currently in its third week, creating Europe's worst refugee crisis since the end of World War 2.

Speaking to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal exclusively, envoy Delhaye said, “We think, given the weight of India, also given its moral weight… any clear condemnation by India will make it clear to President of Russia that he has embarked on an operation which will lead him nowhere.”

India has a close relationship with both Europe and Russia. Earlier this week, Indian PM Modi spoke to both Ukraine and Russian presidents, urging them for direct talks, saying that dialogue is the only way forward.

Asked if a situation in Europe can divert attention from Indo Pacific, the envoy said, "As long as this war will last, and no one knows how long it will last, it will be impossible for Europe to focus what is happening in Asia."

WION: How do you see the situation right now in the aftermath of the Russian invasion of Ukraine?

François Delhaye: What we see is huge human suffering, we have the largest flow of refugees since the Second World War with 2 million refugees. We have seen the destruction of Ukraine, which is huge, and the suffering of people there. This is the first thing we see. The second thing which we see is the direct threat at the border of the EU. We see it as a situation which is unprecedented in nearly 80 years, which is extremely worrying.

&nbsp;

WION: How do you see India's role in terms of evolving situation? We have seen what has happened at the UN, considering that India has a close relationship with Europe and Russia.

François Delhaye: We understand India's position. What we have been asking is for India to clearly condemn what is war, and war by Russia. We think given the weight of India, and the moral weight it carries, as India is a non-permanent member of the security council, any clear condemnation of what is happening now will have an enormous impact. It will probably in some way make clear to the President of Russia that he has embarked on an operation which will lead him to nowhere.

&nbsp;

WION: Do you think Europe will now be less invested in Indo Pacific, given that war is&nbsp;creating a distraction?

François Delhaye: Yes, no doubt about it. As long as this war will last, and no one knows how long it will last, it will be impossible for Europe to focus on what is happening in Asia. It does not mean that situation in Asia is not a matter of great interest. It is. Challenges which we now see in Asia are important for the future but at the moment, all of Europe's resources are completed focused on what is happening at our doorstep.

&nbsp;

WION: Do you see a de-escalation happening soon in Europe?

François Delhaye: It is really hard to tell. I think the situation did not develop as President Putin expected it, probably. What will be his choice, will it be more escalation or will it be de-escalation. It is something that cannot be foreseen, and we should be ready for all options.

Amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Belgium's Ambassador to India François Delhaye has said that his country has been asking to India to “clearly condemn war by Russia".

Amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Belgium's Ambassador to India François Delhaye has said that his country has been asking to India to “clearly condemn war by Russia". The Russian invasion of Ukraine is currently in its third week, creating Europe's worst refugee crisis since the end of World War 2. Speaking to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal exclusively, envoy Delhaye said, “We think, given the weight of India, also given its moral weight… any clear condemnation by India will make it clear to President of Russia that he has embarked on an operation which will lead him nowhere.” India has a close relationship with both Europe and Russia. Earlier this week, Indian PM Modi spoke to both Ukraine and Russian presidents, urging them for direct talks, saying that dialogue is the only way forward. Asked if a situation in Europe can divert attention from Indo Pacific, the envoy said, "As long as this war will last, and no one knows how long it will last, it will be impossible for Europe to focus what is happening in Asia." WION: How do you see the situation right now in the aftermath of the Russian invasion of Ukraine? François Delhaye: What we see is huge human suffering, we have the largest flow of refugees since the Second World War with 2 million refugees. We have seen the destruction of Ukraine, which is huge, and the suffering of people there. This is the first thing we see. The second thing which we see is the direct threat at the border of the EU. We see it as a situation which is unprecedented in nearly 80 years, which is extremely worrying. WION: How do you see India's role in terms of evolving situation? We have seen what has happened at the UN, considering that India has a close relationship with Europe and Russia. François Delhaye: We understand India's position. What we have been asking is for India to clearly condemn what is war, and war by Russia. We think given the weight of India, and the moral weight it carries, as India is a non-permanent member of the security council, any clear condemnation of what is happening now will have an enormous impact. It will probably in some way make clear to the President of Russia that he has embarked on an operation which will lead him to nowhere. WION: Do you think Europe will now be less invested in Indo Pacific, given that war is creating a distraction? François Delhaye: Yes, no doubt about it. As long as this war will last, and no one knows how long it will last, it will be impossible for Europe to focus on what is happening in Asia. It does not mean that situation in Asia is not a matter of great interest. It is. Challenges which we now see in Asia are important for the future but at the moment, all of Europe's resources are completed focused on what is happening at our doorstep. WION: Do you see a de-escalation happening soon in Europe? François Delhaye: It is really hard to tell. I think the situation did not develop as President Putin expected it, probably. What will be his choice, will it be more escalation or will it be de-escalation. It is something that cannot be foreseen, and we should be ready for all options.

Want India to clearly condemn ‘war by Russia’, says Belgium's envoy to India

Russian prosecutors said Friday they were ramping up control of foreign companies that decided to leave the country after Russia sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine.

A flurry of Western companies – from H&amp;M to McDonald's to Ikea – have suspended their work in Russia since the start of military action in Ukraine.

"Prosecutors have established strict control over compliance with labor law, including the terms of employment contracts, the procedure for paying salaries and determining their size," Russia's Prosecutor General said in a statement.

It said the measure was taken "to ensure the interests of conscientious entrepreneurs and employees" of companies that said they were leaving the country.&nbsp;

Every instance of suspension of activity in Russia "will be given legal assessment" for signs of fictitious or deliberate bankruptcy, the prosecutors said, adding that the offence is punishable by criminal law.

It also pointed to the "inadmissability" of one-sided refusals of obligations by companies that are planning to leave.&nbsp;

Faced with a flurry of sanctions which have sent the ruble tumbling and accelerated already high inflation, Russia has taken measures to stem the flight of foreign currency and capital as much as possible.&nbsp;

Without saying the word "nationalization", Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday that foreign companies leaving Russia should be given to "those who want to make them work."

Russian prosecutors said Friday they were ramping up control of foreign companies that decided to leave the country after Russia sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine.

Russian prosecutors said Friday they were ramping up control of foreign companies that decided to leave the country after Russia sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine. A flurry of Western companies – from H&M to McDonald's to Ikea – have suspended their work in Russia since the start of military action in Ukraine. "Prosecutors have established strict control over compliance with labor law, including the terms of employment contracts, the procedure for paying salaries and determining their size," Russia's Prosecutor General said in a statement. It said the measure was taken "to ensure the interests of conscientious entrepreneurs and employees" of companies that said they were leaving the country. Every instance of suspension of activity in Russia "will be given legal assessment" for signs of fictitious or deliberate bankruptcy, the prosecutors said, adding that the offence is punishable by criminal law. It also pointed to the "inadmissability" of one-sided refusals of obligations by companies that are planning to leave. Faced with a flurry of sanctions which have sent the ruble tumbling and accelerated already high inflation, Russia has taken measures to stem the flight of foreign currency and capital as much as possible. Without saying the word "nationalization", Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday that foreign companies leaving Russia should be given to "those who want to make them work."

Russian prosecutors up oversight of foreign firms leaving country

Ukraine war: What weapons are being used in Russia's invasion?

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

The White House has warned that Russia may attack Ukraine with chemical or biological weapons while rejecting Russia’s allegation that US is supporting the bioweapons programme in Kyiv.

Earlier this week, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accused Ukraine of running chemical and biological weapons labs with U.S. support.

Responding to the claims, White House press secretary Jen Psaki termed the allegations “preposterous” and said it could be part of an attempt by Russia to lay the groundwork for its own use of such weapons of mass destruction against Ukraine.

They said they were "very concerned" about the risk the war could escalate, and particularly the possibility of Russia using non-conventional weapons.

“This is all an obvious ploy by Russia to try to justify its further premeditated, unprovoked, and unjustified attack on Ukraine,” Psaki tweeted on Wednesday.

“Now that Russia has made these false claims, and China has seemingly endorsed this propaganda, we should all be on the lookout for Russia to possibly use chemical or biological weapons in Ukraine, or to create a false flag operation using them,” she said.

Also watch&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-before-and-after-satellite-images-show-destruction-in-ukraines-mariupol-460931">&nbsp;Before and after images show destruction in Ukraine's Mariupol</a>

On Wednesday, the UK Ministry of Defence in a tweet claimed that Russia had used thermobaric rockets, also known as vacuum bombs, in Ukraine.

Thermobaric munition is said to be more powerful than any other conventional weapon, and many regard it as the "father of all bombs."

The bomb sucks in oxygen from the surrounding air to generate a high-temperature explosion. &nbsp;

It produces a blast wave of a longer duration than that of a conventional explosive and can vaporise human bodies. &nbsp;

Also watch&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-vacuum-and-cluster-bombs-and-is-russia-using-them-against-ukraine-458638">What are ‘vacuum’ and cluster bombs and is Russia using them against Ukraine?</a>

Russia's foreign minister Sergei Lavrov arrived in Turkey's southern city of Antalya on Wednesday to take part in the peace talks between Moscow and Kyiv scheduled Thursday, reported news agency Reuters.

The meeting between Lavrov and his counterpart Dmytro Kuleba will be the first between the nation's top diplomats since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine on February 24.

Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett is brokering peace talks between both nations.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. The White House has warned that Russia may attack Ukraine with chemical or biological weapons while rejecting Russia’s allegation that US is supporting the bioweapons programme in Kyiv. Earlier this week, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accused Ukraine of running chemical and biological weapons labs with U.S. support. Responding to the claims, White House press secretary Jen Psaki termed the allegations “preposterous” and said it could be part of an attempt by Russia to lay the groundwork for its own use of such weapons of mass destruction against Ukraine. They said they were "very concerned" about the risk the war could escalate, and particularly the possibility of Russia using non-conventional weapons. “This is all an obvious ploy by Russia to try to justify its further premeditated, unprovoked, and unjustified attack on Ukraine,” Psaki tweeted on Wednesday. “Now that Russia has made these false claims, and China has seemingly endorsed this propaganda, we should all be on the lookout for Russia to possibly use chemical or biological weapons in Ukraine, or to create a false flag operation using them,” she said. Also watch | Before and after images show destruction in Ukraine's Mariupol On Wednesday, the UK Ministry of Defence in a tweet claimed that Russia had used thermobaric rockets, also known as vacuum bombs, in Ukraine. Thermobaric munition is said to be more powerful than any other conventional weapon, and many regard it as the "father of all bombs." The bomb sucks in oxygen from the surrounding air to generate a high-temperature explosion. It produces a blast wave of a longer duration than that of a conventional explosive and can vaporise human bodies. Also watch | What are ‘vacuum’ and cluster bombs and is Russia using them against Ukraine? Russia's foreign minister Sergei Lavrov arrived in Turkey's southern city of Antalya on Wednesday to take part in the peace talks between Moscow and Kyiv scheduled Thursday, reported news agency Reuters. The meeting between Lavrov and his counterpart Dmytro Kuleba will be the first between the nation's top diplomats since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine on February 24. Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett is brokering peace talks between both nations. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia may attack Ukraine with chemical weapons, claims White House

As Russia’s invasion of Ukraine grinds on, Moscow is finding itself mired in a parallel conflict: a contest of economic and political endurance against the West.

Vladimir Putin, Russia’s president, had prepared Russia for sanctions like those imposed after Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea, as if daring Western countries to cut off their citizens from Russian trade and see who blinked first.

But the severity of Western measures has far exceeded expectations, not only devastating Russia’s economy but also isolating its citizens from travel and even from Western brands like Apple and McDonald’s.

Now, both sides face a test of their ability to maintain domestic support for a standoff whose costs will be borne by regular citizens. More than a battle of wills, it is a test of two opposing systems.

Putin’s Russia, which rallied around nationalist fervor in 2014, now relies on propaganda and repression. Western leaders increasingly appeal to liberal ideals of international norms and collective welfare that had been in global decline — until now, they hope.

The economic balance favors the West in the extreme. One study estimated that a full trade war would curb the combined gross domestic product of Western countries by 0.17% but Russia’s by a devastating 9.7%.

Public opinion may also advantage the West, where surveys find wide support for harsh measures against Russia, whereas Putin dare not even acknowledge the war’s extent for fear of triggering more protests.

Still, Western leaders must maintain unity across 20-plus fractious democracies, persuading citizens from Canada to Bulgaria that spiking energy prices — which may be just the start of the economic shocks — are worth the sacrifice.

Political fissures will inevitably open within the West, said Jeremy Shapiro, the research director for the European Council on Foreign Relations.

“The polls really tell us nothing about how people will actually react to economic pain and masses of refugees,” Shapiro said.

The question is when.

Putin, meanwhile, must maintain his grip on both Russia’s public and the network of political power brokers who back him. If their tolerance of the war’s rapidly rising toll slips before Western resolve does, it could imperil not just his war, but his very hold on power.

The question of who breaks first may shape Ukraine’s fate as much as any weapons transfer or tank assault. And although the outcome is impossible to predict, a range of economic indicators and political signals offer some clues.

The West’s Challenge

Western countries’ secret weapon, nearly as important as their economic edge, may be their citizens’ sudden desire for concerted and unified action.

In polls, Europeans across the continent express a moral imperative to punish Russia’s invasion, as well as a belief that Russia now poses a direct threat to their countries.

In a seven-country survey taken just before the invasion, a plurality said they were willing to personally bear the economic toll of isolating Russia, which provides much of Europe’s energy. Country-specific polls suggest that share has likely increased.

In Germany — the European Union’s largest economy and often its decider on Russia matters — only 38% supported increasing military spending as of September; now it is up to 69%.

In past standoffs, European leaders often went against the will of their voters to confront Moscow, seeing it as a grim necessity.

Now, leaders such as Olaf Scholz of Germany and Emmanuel Macron of France are seeing their approval ratings surge as they rally against Russia. Far from playing down the costs to everyday citizens, some emphasize it as a point of pride.

Political risks are further eased by the election calendar: Macron is nearly alone among Western leaders in facing reelection this year and is a strong favorite to win.

Still, President Joe Biden is under countervailing pressure from Republicans and voters alike to simultaneously stand up to Russia while keeping down gas prices. If politics around the crisis shift, Biden may feel compelled to adjust, especially as the November midterm elections, already expected to be difficult for his party, near.

And a slowdown in Russian energy exports — already underway as Russian firms are buffeted by the turmoil — is expected to hit Europe hard. Germany imports more than half of its gas from Russia, as does Austria. Some Eastern European countries run on nearly 100% Russian gas.

Europe’s West gets most of its gas elsewhere, such as from Norway and Algeria. Still, as Russia is cut off from buyers, fossil fuels will become scarcer and therefore costlier worldwide. Some Germans’ energy bills are already projected to increase by two-thirds this year.

To ease the burden, European governments are putting in place sweeping energy subsidies, worth 15.5 billion euros, or about $17 billion, in France, 5.5 billion euros in Italy, 2 billion euros in Poland, 1.7 billion euros in Austria, and so on. Many target low-income households.

But there may be a timer on Western resilience. Unless European countries radically re-engineer their infrastructure for importing gas or take on perhaps the fastest shift to renewable energy in history — both considered technically feasible but costly — they could potentially run out of fuel next winter.

Economic shocks could extend well beyond heating costs. A number of European industries are already slowing production because of rising energy prices. Russia also exports much of the world’s copper and other industrial materials.

At the same time, while Europeans express wide support for welcoming Ukrainian refugees, it is unclear whether this will last.

Europe is already expecting a major surge in refugee arrivals this summer, many from Afghanistan. Western leaders have proved extremely sensitive to anti-immigration backlash.

“There remain significant divides that are being buried in the emotion of the moment,” Shapiro said.

The West’s greatest ally in maintaining unity may be Putin himself. By massing forces on NATO’s borders and producing shocking images of destruction in Ukraine, he has given Europeans something to rally against, distracting from their disagreements, for now.

Moscow’s Challenge

In a telling contrast to 2014, when many Russians cheered their country’s invasion of Ukraine, Putin has turned almost immediately to repression and censorship, threatening severe prison terms for so much as calling the invasion a “war.”

This has accelerated a kind of authoritarian feedback loop in Russia, with tightening repression feeding popular discontent, beyond even the extremes of recent years.

But Putin belongs to a particular club of authoritarians — individual strongmen, rather than military or party dictatorships — for whom popular support is a secondary concern.

Rather, such leaders draw their power from the backing of political elites, like the heads of security agencies or state industries, said Erica Frantz, a Michigan State University scholar of authoritarianism.

“This is not to say that ordinary citizens don’t matter, but rather that if we’re looking for regime vulnerabilities at the moment, the focal point really needs to be on these indicators of elite discontent,” Frantz said.

Authoritarian elites, garrisoned behind vast personal wealth, can more easily endure the economic hardship that will be borne by regular Russians. They also tend to give leaders wide latitude in wartime, which may be why strongmen rarely lose power because of battlefield losses, research has shown.

Still, such elites are not fooled by state propaganda. And they are not indifferent to their country’s fate.

Surveys of Russian political elites conducted in 2020 found that most backed Putin for exactly the accomplishments now under threat: stabilizing the country and winning it respect abroad. Many also expressed concern over his handling of the economy — and opposition to military adventurism in Ukraine.

“The crisis will be most severe for a minimum of three years. Take the 1998 crisis and multiply it by three,” Oleg Deripaska, a prominent Russian billionaire, said in an unusual break with the Kremlin, referring to Russia’s economically catastrophic 1990s.

Sanctions could hurt Putin with the elite by limiting his ability to distribute the spoils they expect in return for their support. So could popular unrest, if it grows severe enough to make those elites question whether Putin is imperiling Russia’s stability.

“Russian public opinion is becoming such a problem that Putin is effectively fighting two wars: one in Ukraine, and one at home,” Sam Greene, a Russia scholar at King’s College London, wrote this week.

The danger is not only anti-war protests, which have been mostly associated with segments of society already skeptical of Putin. Bank runs or other forms of mass economic panic, Greene argued, could trigger a sense of national crisis, overriding even the sanguine lies of state media.

Putin, by hiding the scale and nature of the invasion, is in effect tying his own hands, making it impossible for his government to adequately inform citizens about the struggles ahead. You can’t ask citizens to rally around a war you insist does not exist.

Much as European disunity is all but inevitable as the tolls mount, apprehension among the Russian elite may simply be a matter of time.

“The indicators of elite discontent that we have seen thus far are unusual in Putin’s Russia and should therefore be taken seriously,” Frantz said, referring to comments by Deripaska and a few others.

Though she stressed that Putin could well ride out the self-made crisis, “in the long term, this external pressure — coupled with the domestic unrest — could lead to Putin’s downfall.”

As Russia’s invasion of Ukraine grinds on, Moscow is finding itself mired in a parallel conflict: a contest of economic and political endurance against the West.

As Russia’s invasion of Ukraine grinds on, Moscow is finding itself mired in a parallel conflict: a contest of economic and political endurance against the West. Vladimir Putin, Russia’s president, had prepared Russia for sanctions like those imposed after Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea, as if daring Western countries to cut off their citizens from Russian trade and see who blinked first. But the severity of Western measures has far exceeded expectations, not only devastating Russia’s economy but also isolating its citizens from travel and even from Western brands like Apple and McDonald’s. Now, both sides face a test of their ability to maintain domestic support for a standoff whose costs will be borne by regular citizens. More than a battle of wills, it is a test of two opposing systems. Putin’s Russia, which rallied around nationalist fervor in 2014, now relies on propaganda and repression. Western leaders increasingly appeal to liberal ideals of international norms and collective welfare that had been in global decline — until now, they hope. The economic balance favors the West in the extreme. One study estimated that a full trade war would curb the combined gross domestic product of Western countries by 0.17% but Russia’s by a devastating 9.7%. Public opinion may also advantage the West, where surveys find wide support for harsh measures against Russia, whereas Putin dare not even acknowledge the war’s extent for fear of triggering more protests. Still, Western leaders must maintain unity across 20-plus fractious democracies, persuading citizens from Canada to Bulgaria that spiking energy prices — which may be just the start of the economic shocks — are worth the sacrifice. Political fissures will inevitably open within the West, said Jeremy Shapiro, the research director for the European Council on Foreign Relations. “The polls really tell us nothing about how people will actually react to economic pain and masses of refugees,” Shapiro said. The question is when. Putin, meanwhile, must maintain his grip on both Russia’s public and the network of political power brokers who back him. If their tolerance of the war’s rapidly rising toll slips before Western resolve does, it could imperil not just his war, but his very hold on power. The question of who breaks first may shape Ukraine’s fate as much as any weapons transfer or tank assault. And although the outcome is impossible to predict, a range of economic indicators and political signals offer some clues. The West’s Challenge Western countries’ secret weapon, nearly as important as their economic edge, may be their citizens’ sudden desire for concerted and unified action. In polls, Europeans across the continent express a moral imperative to punish Russia’s invasion, as well as a belief that Russia now poses a direct threat to their countries. In a seven-country survey taken just before the invasion, a plurality said they were willing to personally bear the economic toll of isolating Russia, which provides much of Europe’s energy. Country-specific polls suggest that share has likely increased. In Germany — the European Union’s largest economy and often its decider on Russia matters — only 38% supported increasing military spending as of September; now it is up to 69%. In past standoffs, European leaders often went against the will of their voters to confront Moscow, seeing it as a grim necessity. Now, leaders such as Olaf Scholz of Germany and Emmanuel Macron of France are seeing their approval ratings surge as they rally against Russia. Far from playing down the costs to everyday citizens, some emphasize it as a point of pride. Political risks are further eased by the election calendar: Macron is nearly alone among Western leaders in facing reelection this year and is a strong favorite to win. Still, President Joe Biden is under countervailing pressure from Republicans and voters alike to simultaneously stand up to Russia while keeping down gas prices. If politics around the crisis shift, Biden may feel compelled to adjust, especially as the November midterm elections, already expected to be difficult for his party, near. And a slowdown in Russian energy exports — already underway as Russian firms are buffeted by the turmoil — is expected to hit Europe hard. Germany imports more than half of its gas from Russia, as does Austria. Some Eastern European countries run on nearly 100% Russian gas. Europe’s West gets most of its gas elsewhere, such as from Norway and Algeria. Still, as Russia is cut off from buyers, fossil fuels will become scarcer and therefore costlier worldwide. Some Germans’ energy bills are already projected to increase by two-thirds this year. To ease the burden, European governments are putting in place sweeping energy subsidies, worth 15.5 billion euros, or about $17 billion, in France, 5.5 billion euros in Italy, 2 billion euros in Poland, 1.7 billion euros in Austria, and so on. Many target low-income households. But there may be a timer on Western resilience. Unless European countries radically re-engineer their infrastructure for importing gas or take on perhaps the fastest shift to renewable energy in history — both considered technically feasible but costly — they could potentially run out of fuel next winter. Economic shocks could extend well beyond heating costs. A number of European industries are already slowing production because of rising energy prices. Russia also exports much of the world’s copper and other industrial materials. At the same time, while Europeans express wide support for welcoming Ukrainian refugees, it is unclear whether this will last. Europe is already expecting a major surge in refugee arrivals this summer, many from Afghanistan. Western leaders have proved extremely sensitive to anti-immigration backlash. “There remain significant divides that are being buried in the emotion of the moment,” Shapiro said. The West’s greatest ally in maintaining unity may be Putin himself. By massing forces on NATO’s borders and producing shocking images of destruction in Ukraine, he has given Europeans something to rally against, distracting from their disagreements, for now. Moscow’s Challenge In a telling contrast to 2014, when many Russians cheered their country’s invasion of Ukraine, Putin has turned almost immediately to repression and censorship, threatening severe prison terms for so much as calling the invasion a “war.” This has accelerated a kind of authoritarian feedback loop in Russia, with tightening repression feeding popular discontent, beyond even the extremes of recent years. But Putin belongs to a particular club of authoritarians — individual strongmen, rather than military or party dictatorships — for whom popular support is a secondary concern. Rather, such leaders draw their power from the backing of political elites, like the heads of security agencies or state industries, said Erica Frantz, a Michigan State University scholar of authoritarianism. “This is not to say that ordinary citizens don’t matter, but rather that if we’re looking for regime vulnerabilities at the moment, the focal point really needs to be on these indicators of elite discontent,” Frantz said. Authoritarian elites, garrisoned behind vast personal wealth, can more easily endure the economic hardship that will be borne by regular Russians. They also tend to give leaders wide latitude in wartime, which may be why strongmen rarely lose power because of battlefield losses, research has shown. Still, such elites are not fooled by state propaganda. And they are not indifferent to their country’s fate. Surveys of Russian political elites conducted in 2020 found that most backed Putin for exactly the accomplishments now under threat: stabilizing the country and winning it respect abroad. Many also expressed concern over his handling of the economy — and opposition to military adventurism in Ukraine. “The crisis will be most severe for a minimum of three years. Take the 1998 crisis and multiply it by three,” Oleg Deripaska, a prominent Russian billionaire, said in an unusual break with the Kremlin, referring to Russia’s economically catastrophic 1990s. Sanctions could hurt Putin with the elite by limiting his ability to distribute the spoils they expect in return for their support. So could popular unrest, if it grows severe enough to make those elites question whether Putin is imperiling Russia’s stability. “Russian public opinion is becoming such a problem that Putin is effectively fighting two wars: one in Ukraine, and one at home,” Sam Greene, a Russia scholar at King’s College London, wrote this week. The danger is not only anti-war protests, which have been mostly associated with segments of society already skeptical of Putin. Bank runs or other forms of mass economic panic, Greene argued, could trigger a sense of national crisis, overriding even the sanguine lies of state media. Putin, by hiding the scale and nature of the invasion, is in effect tying his own hands, making it impossible for his government to adequately inform citizens about the struggles ahead. You can’t ask citizens to rally around a war you insist does not exist. Much as European disunity is all but inevitable as the tolls mount, apprehension among the Russian elite may simply be a matter of time. “The indicators of elite discontent that we have seen thus far are unusual in Putin’s Russia and should therefore be taken seriously,” Frantz said, referring to comments by Deripaska and a few others. Though she stressed that Putin could well ride out the self-made crisis, “in the long term, this external pressure — coupled with the domestic unrest — could lead to Putin’s downfall.”

Russia’s other contest with the West: Economic endurance

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