<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-says-fbi-arrested-russian-a-day-after-it-detained-ex-us-marine-188459">The Kremlin on Wednesday rejected</a> a British suggestion it might use a former<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-it-is-not-willing-to-exchange-detained-ex-us-marine-report-188431"> US Marine detained in Russia </a>on espionage charges as a pawn in a diplomatic game and said it reserved the right to conduct counter-intelligence activities.

Paul Whelan, a former US Marine who also holds a British passport, was detained by Russia's Federal Security Service on December 28. His family has said he is innocent and that he was in Moscow to attend a wedding.

Commenting on the case earlier this month, British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said individuals should not be used as pawns of diplomatic leverage.

Asked about Hunt's remark, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters:

"In Russia, we never use people as pawns in diplomatic games. In Russia, we conduct counter-intelligence activity against those suspected of espionage. That is done regularly."

The Kremlin on Wednesday rejected a British suggestion it might use a former US Marine detained in Russia on espionage charges as a pawn in a diplomatic game and said it reserved the right to conduct counter-intelligence activities.

The Kremlin on Wednesday rejected a British suggestion it might use a former US Marine detained in Russia on espionage charges as a pawn in a diplomatic game and said it reserved the right to conduct counter-intelligence activities. Paul Whelan, a former US Marine who also holds a British passport, was detained by Russia's Federal Security Service on December 28. His family has said he is innocent and that he was in Moscow to attend a wedding. Commenting on the case earlier this month, British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said individuals should not be used as pawns of diplomatic leverage. Asked about Hunt's remark, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters: "In Russia, we never use people as pawns in diplomatic games. In Russia, we conduct counter-intelligence activity against those suspected of espionage. That is done regularly."

Kremlin says it will not use detained ex-US marine Paul Whelan as pawn

Former Russian spy Sergei Skripal was allegedly poisoned by a nerve agent in Britain. Sixty-six-year-old Skripal and his daughter Yulia were found unconscious on a public bench in the southern English city of Salisbury on March 4.

British Prime Minister Theresa May said the Skripals were poisoned with Novichok, a deadly group of nerve agents developed by the Soviet military in the 1970s and 1980s, which was applied to his home's front door in liquid form. May blamed Russia for the poisoning.

It was the first known use of a military-grade nerve agent on European soil since World War II. Allies in Europe and the United States sided with May's view and ordered the biggest expulsion of Russian diplomats since the height of the Cold War.

Russia retaliated by expelling Western diplomats. Moscow denied any involvement and accused the British intelligence agencies of staging the attack to stoke anti-Russian hysteria.

Russian officials questioned why would Russia attack an ageing turncoat who was pardoned and swapped in a Kremlin-approved 2010 spy swap. President Vladimir Putin, himself a former KGB spy, said that Skripal would have been dead if he was attacked with a weapons grade agent.

The father-daughter duo was in a critical condition for weeks after the poisoning. Yulia, 33, was in a coma for 20 days.

Two Russian nationals were arrested after a few months in connection with the incident. A European arrest warrant was also issued for Alexander Petrov and Ruslan Boshirov.

Skripal, recruited by British spies while in Spain, ended up in Britain after a Cold War-style spy swap that brought 10 Russian spies captured in the United States back to Moscow in exchange for those accused by Moscow of spying for the West.

Former Russian spy Sergei Skripal was allegedly poisoned by a nerve agent in Britain. Sixty-six-year-old Skripal and his daughter Yulia were found unconscious on a public bench in the southern English city of Salisbury on March 4.

Former Russian spy Sergei Skripal was allegedly poisoned by a nerve agent in Britain. Sixty-six-year-old Skripal and his daughter Yulia were found unconscious on a public bench in the southern English city of Salisbury on March 4. British Prime Minister Theresa May said the Skripals were poisoned with Novichok, a deadly group of nerve agents developed by the Soviet military in the 1970s and 1980s, which was applied to his home's front door in liquid form. May blamed Russia for the poisoning. It was the first known use of a military-grade nerve agent on European soil since World War II. Allies in Europe and the United States sided with May's view and ordered the biggest expulsion of Russian diplomats since the height of the Cold War. Russia retaliated by expelling Western diplomats. Moscow denied any involvement and accused the British intelligence agencies of staging the attack to stoke anti-Russian hysteria. Russian officials questioned why would Russia attack an ageing turncoat who was pardoned and swapped in a Kremlin-approved 2010 spy swap. President Vladimir Putin, himself a former KGB spy, said that Skripal would have been dead if he was attacked with a weapons grade agent. The father-daughter duo was in a critical condition for weeks after the poisoning. Yulia, 33, was in a coma for 20 days. Two Russian nationals were arrested after a few months in connection with the incident. A European arrest warrant was also issued for Alexander Petrov and Ruslan Boshirov. Skripal, recruited by British spies while in Spain, ended up in Britain after a Cold War-style spy swap that brought 10 Russian spies captured in the United States back to Moscow in exchange for those accused by Moscow of spying for the West.

Poisoning of Sergei Skripal and his daughter divided international community

The Kremlin on Tuesday rejected Washington's accusations that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/i-could-have-a-very-good-relationship-with-russia--putin-trump-128197">Russia tried to disrupt the 2016 presidential vote</a> and sought to demoralise African-Americans, calling the charges incomprehensible.

According to a new report for the US Senate, the primary goal of Russia's Internet Research Agency (IRA) was to deepen divisions in US society and convince Democrat-favouring liberals -- including Latinos, youths and the LGBTQ community -- not to vote.&nbsp;

The most extensive analysis yet of thousands of IRA ads and posts across social media in 2015-2017 showed an emphasis on provoking the anger of black Americans so that they would stay home on election day.

For example, the IRA-created account "Blacktivist" sent out messages on the Democratic candidate such as: "No lives matter to Hillary Clinton. Only votes matter to Hillary Clinton."

Another IRA account, "Black Matters", posted on Facebook: "Cops kill black kids. Are you sure that your son won't be the next?"

Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the report by the Computational Propaganda Project at Oxford University and social media specialists Graphika caused "nothing but incomprehension."

"It voices absolutely general charges and accusations and some of them are absolutely unclear to us," Peskov told reporters on a conference call.

"We are reproached that someone critically thinks of a situation in this or that social sphere in the United States but it is not explained what Russia has to do with it," he said.

He reiterated Russia's long-standing position that any such claims were unfounded.&nbsp;

"The Russian state, the Russian government had and has nothing to do with any interference, especially one that is described in such abstract terms," Peskov added.

The IRA is believed to have been set up by Yevgeny Prigozhin, a businessman close to Putin, as a propaganda tool.&nbsp;

Russia has been accused of manipulating the 2016 US presidential vote through a vast propaganda campaign in favour of Donald Trump.&nbsp;

US investigators are probing alleged collusion between Russian agents and Trump's campaign.&nbsp;

The Kremlin on Tuesday rejected Washington's accusations that Russia tried to disrupt the 2016 presidential vote and sought to demoralise African-Americans, calling the charges incomprehensible.

The Kremlin on Tuesday rejected Washington's accusations that Russia tried to disrupt the 2016 presidential vote and sought to demoralise African-Americans, calling the charges incomprehensible. According to a new report for the US Senate, the primary goal of Russia's Internet Research Agency (IRA) was to deepen divisions in US society and convince Democrat-favouring liberals -- including Latinos, youths and the LGBTQ community -- not to vote. The most extensive analysis yet of thousands of IRA ads and posts across social media in 2015-2017 showed an emphasis on provoking the anger of black Americans so that they would stay home on election day. For example, the IRA-created account "Blacktivist" sent out messages on the Democratic candidate such as: "No lives matter to Hillary Clinton. Only votes matter to Hillary Clinton." Another IRA account, "Black Matters", posted on Facebook: "Cops kill black kids. Are you sure that your son won't be the next?" Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the report by the Computational Propaganda Project at Oxford University and social media specialists Graphika caused "nothing but incomprehension." "It voices absolutely general charges and accusations and some of them are absolutely unclear to us," Peskov told reporters on a conference call. "We are reproached that someone critically thinks of a situation in this or that social sphere in the United States but it is not explained what Russia has to do with it," he said. He reiterated Russia's long-standing position that any such claims were unfounded. "The Russian state, the Russian government had and has nothing to do with any interference, especially one that is described in such abstract terms," Peskov added. The IRA is believed to have been set up by Yevgeny Prigozhin, a businessman close to Putin, as a propaganda tool. Russia has been accused of manipulating the 2016 US presidential vote through a vast propaganda campaign in favour of Donald Trump. US investigators are probing alleged collusion between Russian agents and Trump's campaign.

Kremlin says Russia did not target black US voters

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday the Kremlin should play a leading role in Russian rap music and in youth culture, rather than trying to shut it down.

His comments follow a spate of concert cancellations by venue owners and local authorities across Russia and the brief arrest of a popular rap artist, Husky. The crackdown has sparked considerable discussion in recent months, especially among young people.

Putin said such heavy-handed measures were often counterproductive and suggested an alternative approach.

"If it's impossible to stop something, you've got to take charge of it," he said during a live broadcast of a meeting of his advisory council on culture and the arts.

"How to do this, how to take charge and guide in the necessary direction... That's the most important issue," he said, adding that the question would be discussed further by members of his administration and the culture ministry.

Husky, who raps in Russian and whose songs have at times been critical of the government, said his concerts were under pressure because authorities objected to lyrics they found offensive.

After his concert was cancelled in Krasnodar, in southern Russia, he tried to perform from the roof of a car instead, leading to his arrest for hooliganism.

His arrest and sentenced to 12 days imprisonment led to a public outcry and the rapper was released early, thanks to the intervention of members of the presidential administration, the editor of state broadcaster Russia Today said on Twitter.

Putin on Saturday was responding to a statement about rap concert cancellations made by music producer and member of the advisory council Igor Matvienko. Among other suggestions, Matvienko proposed creating a parental advisory guidance system for concerts.

Addressing Matvienko, Putin said, "You said that rap (rests on) three pillars: sex, drugs and protests. Of all of these, drugs are the most worrying," Putin said. "They are the route to a nation's degradation."

Putin also addressed the question of how to regulate the musical genre's use of censorious language.

He said that he had talked about swearing with a linguist.

"She told me personally that it's a part of our language. It's just a question of how you use it," he said.

Matvienko also suggested guidelines on the use of swear words online and in the media, but Putin said this was a sensitive matter as such words are part of Russians' common culture.

Likening swear words to body parts, Putin joked: "we have all sorts of body parts, and it's not like we put them on display all the time, whether it's hot or cold."

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday the Kremlin should play a leading role in Russian rap music and in youth culture, rather than trying to shut it down.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday the Kremlin should play a leading role in Russian rap music and in youth culture, rather than trying to shut it down. His comments follow a spate of concert cancellations by venue owners and local authorities across Russia and the brief arrest of a popular rap artist, Husky. The crackdown has sparked considerable discussion in recent months, especially among young people. Putin said such heavy-handed measures were often counterproductive and suggested an alternative approach. "If it's impossible to stop something, you've got to take charge of it," he said during a live broadcast of a meeting of his advisory council on culture and the arts. "How to do this, how to take charge and guide in the necessary direction... That's the most important issue," he said, adding that the question would be discussed further by members of his administration and the culture ministry. Husky, who raps in Russian and whose songs have at times been critical of the government, said his concerts were under pressure because authorities objected to lyrics they found offensive. After his concert was cancelled in Krasnodar, in southern Russia, he tried to perform from the roof of a car instead, leading to his arrest for hooliganism. His arrest and sentenced to 12 days imprisonment led to a public outcry and the rapper was released early, thanks to the intervention of members of the presidential administration, the editor of state broadcaster Russia Today said on Twitter. Putin on Saturday was responding to a statement about rap concert cancellations made by music producer and member of the advisory council Igor Matvienko. Among other suggestions, Matvienko proposed creating a parental advisory guidance system for concerts. Addressing Matvienko, Putin said, "You said that rap (rests on) three pillars: sex, drugs and protests. Of all of these, drugs are the most worrying," Putin said. "They are the route to a nation's degradation." Putin also addressed the question of how to regulate the musical genre's use of censorious language. He said that he had talked about swearing with a linguist. "She told me personally that it's a part of our language. It's just a question of how you use it," he said. Matvienko also suggested guidelines on the use of swear words online and in the media, but Putin said this was a sensitive matter as such words are part of Russians' common culture. Likening swear words to body parts, Putin joked: "we have all sorts of body parts, and it's not like we put them on display all the time, whether it's hot or cold."

Kremlin should take the lead on rap music, not shut it down: Putin

The Kremlin shrugged off a US call for it to scrap a nuclear-capable missile on Friday, saying it was in compliance with the Cold-War era arms control treaty Washington accuses the missile of violating.

A senior US&nbsp;official said on Thursday that Russia must scrap its 9M729 nuclear-capable cruise missiles and launchers or modify the weapons' range to return to compliance with the 1987 Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces Treaty and avert a US&nbsp;pullout from the pact.

"Russia has not violated, is not violating and remains committed to its obligations under the INF treaty," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters when asked about the US call.

The Kremlin shrugged off a US call for it to scrap a nuclear-capable missile on Friday, saying it was in compliance with the Cold-War era arms control treaty Washington accuses the missile of violating.

The Kremlin shrugged off a US call for it to scrap a nuclear-capable missile on Friday, saying it was in compliance with the Cold-War era arms control treaty Washington accuses the missile of violating. A senior US official said on Thursday that Russia must scrap its 9M729 nuclear-capable cruise missiles and launchers or modify the weapons' range to return to compliance with the 1987 Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces Treaty and avert a US pullout from the pact. "Russia has not violated, is not violating and remains committed to its obligations under the INF treaty," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters when asked about the US call.

Won't scrap nuclear-capable 9M729 cruise missiles: Russia

Kremlin defends Putin-Saudi Crown prince high-five

Kremlin spokesperson&nbsp;on Monday defended the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/putin-exchanges-high-five-with-saudi-crown-prince-at-g20-summit-180624">heartily high-five between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Saudi Prince Mohammed Bin Salman</a>&nbsp;saying&nbsp;that "good personal relations are the basis for effective bilateral cooperation".

He also said that Russia is interested in continuing relations with the OPEC and non-OPEC group of oil producers, and that Putin and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman discussed this issue at their meeting.

While the world leaders at the G20 summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina did not pay much heed to the Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday exchanged a high-five with him on the first day of the summit.

Putin who took the seat next to the Crown prince at the plenary session at the G20 Summit laughed heartily with him while exchanging the high-five.

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Putin's friendly behaviour towards the crown prince contrasted sharply with that of other leaders at the summit who sidelined the crown prince over the suspicious <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-crown-prince-was-in-constant-touch-with-khashoggi-kill-team-wsj-181054">killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate</a> in Istanbul in October.

Prince <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-crown-prince-sidelined-in-g20-family-photo-180611">Mohammed was also sidelined during the official "family photo" of world leaders</a> at Friday's gathering. He then quickly exited the stage without shaking hands or talking with the other leaders.

There has been rising furore regarding a Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) report that hints at Salman's hand in Khashoggi's killing. The US president has refused to confirm the findings, while continuously reiterating the importance of having Saudi Arabia as an ally.

Russia has also refrained from criticising Saudi Arabia or the crown prince over the killing. Putin said in October he lacked information about the matter and said Russia would not tear up its relations with Saudi Arabia because of it.

However, Moscow has also fostered strong ties with Saudi Arabia's regional arch-foe Iran. Russia and Iran back President Bashar al-Assad in Syria's civil war, while Saudi Arabia along with Western countries has backed some rebel groups.

Kremlin spokesperson on Monday defended the heartily high-five between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Saudi Prince Mohammed Bin Salman saying that "good personal relations are the basis for effective bilateral cooperation".

Kremlin spokesperson on Monday defended the heartily high-five between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Saudi Prince Mohammed Bin Salman saying that "good personal relations are the basis for effective bilateral cooperation". He also said that Russia is interested in continuing relations with the OPEC and non-OPEC group of oil producers, and that Putin and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman discussed this issue at their meeting. While the world leaders at the G20 summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina did not pay much heed to the Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday exchanged a high-five with him on the first day of the summit. Putin who took the seat next to the Crown prince at the plenary session at the G20 Summit laughed heartily with him while exchanging the high-five. × Putin's friendly behaviour towards the crown prince contrasted sharply with that of other leaders at the summit who sidelined the crown prince over the suspicious killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in October. Prince Mohammed was also sidelined during the official "family photo" of world leaders at Friday's gathering. He then quickly exited the stage without shaking hands or talking with the other leaders. There has been rising furore regarding a Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) report that hints at Salman's hand in Khashoggi's killing. The US president has refused to confirm the findings, while continuously reiterating the importance of having Saudi Arabia as an ally. Russia has also refrained from criticising Saudi Arabia or the crown prince over the killing. Putin said in October he lacked information about the matter and said Russia would not tear up its relations with Saudi Arabia because of it. However, Moscow has also fostered strong ties with Saudi Arabia's regional arch-foe Iran. Russia and Iran back President Bashar al-Assad in Syria's civil war, while Saudi Arabia along with Western countries has backed some rebel groups.

Kremlin defends Putin 'high-five' with crown prince at G-20 summit

Michael Cohen, President Donald Trump's former personal lawyer, informed Trump about a conversation he had with the Kremlin seeking help to build a skyscraper in Moscow in 2016 during the US&nbsp;presidential campaign, according to a court filing.

Cohen also "remained in close and regular contact with White House-based staff and legal counsel" to Trump while preparing false statements to Congress about his contacts with Russia, Cohen's lawyer's said in the filing to a Manhattan federal judge late Friday.

Cohen is scheduled to be sentenced on December 12 after pleading guilty to tax evasion, making false statements to a bank, campaign finance violations, and lying to Congress.

Cohen has been cooperating with Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 US election and possible collusion with the Trump campaign and his lawyers asked in the filing that he avoid prison time. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Cohen, a former member of Trump's inner circle who in the past called himself the president's "fixer,", admitted this week that he made false statements to two congressional panels about the Moscow project in a bid to remain consistent with Trump's messaging about Russia during the 2016 campaign.

Cohen had said in his statement to Congress that he had limited contact with Trump concerning the project, when in fact it had been more extensive. Cohen also said he falsely told Congress he never took any steps toward traveling to Russia when in fact he had discussed going there.

In Friday's court filing, Cohen said he kept Trump "apprised" of the "substantive conversation" he had with an assistant to a key Russian government official in January 2016 in which he sought help securing land and financing for the Moscow tower project.

Cohen also said he talked with Trump, referred to as "Client-1" in the filing, about traveling to Russia to pursue the project deep into the 2016 presidential campaign.

"He and Client-1 also discussed possible travel to Russia in the summer of 2016, and Michael took steps to clear dates for such travel," Cohen's lawyers said in the filing.

After Cohen's guilty plea on Thursday, Trump called Cohen a "weak person" and accused him of making up the story to receive a lesser prison sentence. Trump has repeatedly denied any collusion with Russia and criticized Mueller's probe as a politically charged witch hunt.

Michael Cohen, President Donald Trump's former personal lawyer, informed Trump about a conversation he had with the Kremlin seeking help to build a skyscraper in Moscow in 2016 during the US presidential campaign, according to a court filing.

Michael Cohen, President Donald Trump's former personal lawyer, informed Trump about a conversation he had with the Kremlin seeking help to build a skyscraper in Moscow in 2016 during the US presidential campaign, according to a court filing. Cohen also "remained in close and regular contact with White House-based staff and legal counsel" to Trump while preparing false statements to Congress about his contacts with Russia, Cohen's lawyer's said in the filing to a Manhattan federal judge late Friday. Cohen is scheduled to be sentenced on December 12 after pleading guilty to tax evasion, making false statements to a bank, campaign finance violations, and lying to Congress. Cohen has been cooperating with Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 US election and possible collusion with the Trump campaign and his lawyers asked in the filing that he avoid prison time. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Cohen, a former member of Trump's inner circle who in the past called himself the president's "fixer,", admitted this week that he made false statements to two congressional panels about the Moscow project in a bid to remain consistent with Trump's messaging about Russia during the 2016 campaign. Cohen had said in his statement to Congress that he had limited contact with Trump concerning the project, when in fact it had been more extensive. Cohen also said he falsely told Congress he never took any steps toward traveling to Russia when in fact he had discussed going there. In Friday's court filing, Cohen said he kept Trump "apprised" of the "substantive conversation" he had with an assistant to a key Russian government official in January 2016 in which he sought help securing land and financing for the Moscow tower project. Cohen also said he talked with Trump, referred to as "Client-1" in the filing, about traveling to Russia to pursue the project deep into the 2016 presidential campaign. "He and Client-1 also discussed possible travel to Russia in the summer of 2016, and Michael took steps to clear dates for such travel," Cohen's lawyers said in the filing. After Cohen's guilty plea on Thursday, Trump called Cohen a "weak person" and accused him of making up the story to receive a lesser prison sentence. Trump has repeatedly denied any collusion with Russia and criticized Mueller's probe as a politically charged witch hunt.

Ex-lawyer Michael Cohen says he told Trump about conversation with Kremlin: Court filing

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed "serious concern" over Ukraine's decision to impose martial law, the Kremlin said Tuesday, after a confrontation at sea between the two countries.

In a phone conversation with Chancellor Angela Merkel, Putin also said he hoped the German leader could intervene to rein in Kiev.

Putin "expressed a serious concern over Kiev's decision <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russia-confirms-seizing-three-ukrainian-naval-ships-off-crimea-179412">to put its armed forces on alert</a> and to introduce martial law," the Kremlin said in a statement following the call.

He also said he hoped "Berlin could influence the Ukrainian authorities to dissuade them from further reckless acts," it added.&nbsp;

A fresh crisis unfolded on Sunday when Russian forces boarded and captured three Ukrainian ships, with Moscow accusing the vessels of illegally entering Russian waters off the coast of Crimea in the Sea of Azov.

The surge in tensions prompted the Ukranian parliament to vote Monday in favour of martial law in border areas for 30 days.

Martial law gives Ukrainian authorities the power to mobilise citizens with military experience, regulate the media and restrict public rallies.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed "serious concern" over Ukraine's decision to impose martial law, the Kremlin said Tuesday, after a confrontation at sea between the two countries.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed "serious concern" over Ukraine's decision to impose martial law, the Kremlin said Tuesday, after a confrontation at sea between the two countries. In a phone conversation with Chancellor Angela Merkel, Putin also said he hoped the German leader could intervene to rein in Kiev. Putin "expressed a serious concern over Kiev's decision to put its armed forces on alert and to introduce martial law," the Kremlin said in a statement following the call. He also said he hoped "Berlin could influence the Ukrainian authorities to dissuade them from further reckless acts," it added. A fresh crisis unfolded on Sunday when Russian forces boarded and captured three Ukrainian ships, with Moscow accusing the vessels of illegally entering Russian waters off the coast of Crimea in the Sea of Azov. The surge in tensions prompted the Ukranian parliament to vote Monday in favour of martial law in border areas for 30 days. Martial law gives Ukrainian authorities the power to mobilise citizens with military experience, regulate the media and restrict public rallies.

Putin expresses 'serious concern' over Ukraine martial law

The Kremlin said on Wednesday that clear outside pressure had been exerted on a vote to elect a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-kim-jong-yang-to-head-interpol-russian-candidate-loses-bid-178545">new head of Interpol</a>, but that it did not see any factors that would render the election illegitimate, Russian news agencies reported.&nbsp;

International police body Interpol elected Kim Jong-yang of South Korea as its president for a two-year term on Wednesday, beating a Russian national whose candidacy raised concerns in the West about the risk of Kremlin interference.

The Kremlin regretted that Russia`s candidate did not win, spokesman Dmitry Peskov was quoted as saying by Interfax news agency.

The Kremlin said on Wednesday that clear outside pressure had been exerted on a vote to elect a new head of Interpol, but that it did not see any factors that would render the election illegitimate, Russian news agencies reported.

The Kremlin said on Wednesday that clear outside pressure had been exerted on a vote to elect a new head of Interpol, but that it did not see any factors that would render the election illegitimate, Russian news agencies reported. International police body Interpol elected Kim Jong-yang of South Korea as its president for a two-year term on Wednesday, beating a Russian national whose candidacy raised concerns in the West about the risk of Kremlin interference. The Kremlin regretted that Russia`s candidate did not win, spokesman Dmitry Peskov was quoted as saying by Interfax news agency.

Kremlin says there was clear pressure on Interpol vote: Agencies

The Kremlin said on Tuesday that public opposition by a group of US&nbsp;senators to a Russian candidate to head the international police organisation Interpol amounted to election meddling.

Interpol's general assembly is due to elect a new head at a meeting on Wednesday. On Monday, four US&nbsp;senators issued a statement urging US&nbsp;President Donald Trump to oppose the candidacy of Russia's Alexander Prokopchuk.

The senators accuse Russia of abusing Interpol to settle scores and harass dissidents by issuing warrants, known as red notices, for their arrest. The senators said the election of Prokopchuk would allow Moscow to step up such abuse.

"This is probably a certain kind of interference in the electoral process of an international organisation," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on a conference call.

Prokopchuk, a former major general in Russia's Interior Ministry and current vice president of Interpol, is generally considered the leading candidate for the presidency.

Bill Browder, a British fund manager critical of the Kremlin who has been detained repeatedly at Russia's behest before being released again, said it would be "outrageous" if Prokopchuk was named to head the global police agency.

"This particular individual has been responsible for trying to chase me down and have Interpol arrest me seven times," he said in comments to BBC radio.

"All of a sudden, this guy is now put in charge of the institution he's been trying to abuse for the last six years," he said.

The Kremlin said on Tuesday that public opposition by a group of US senators to a Russian candidate to head the international police organisation Interpol amounted to election meddling.

The Kremlin said on Tuesday that public opposition by a group of US senators to a Russian candidate to head the international police organisation Interpol amounted to election meddling. Interpol's general assembly is due to elect a new head at a meeting on Wednesday. On Monday, four US senators issued a statement urging US President Donald Trump to oppose the candidacy of Russia's Alexander Prokopchuk. The senators accuse Russia of abusing Interpol to settle scores and harass dissidents by issuing warrants, known as red notices, for their arrest. The senators said the election of Prokopchuk would allow Moscow to step up such abuse. "This is probably a certain kind of interference in the electoral process of an international organisation," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on a conference call. Prokopchuk, a former major general in Russia's Interior Ministry and current vice president of Interpol, is generally considered the leading candidate for the presidency. Bill Browder, a British fund manager critical of the Kremlin who has been detained repeatedly at Russia's behest before being released again, said it would be "outrageous" if Prokopchuk was named to head the global police agency. "This particular individual has been responsible for trying to chase me down and have Interpol arrest me seven times," he said in comments to BBC radio. "All of a sudden, this guy is now put in charge of the institution he's been trying to abuse for the last six years," he said.

Kremlin says US is meddling in selection of Interpol head

Russian President Vladimir Putin told<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-democrats-urge-acting-attorney-general-to-step-aside-from-russia-probe-176775"> US vice president Mike Pence</a> that Russia had nothing to do with meddling in the 2016 US election, Interfax reported on Monday, during discussions about an upcoming meeting between Putin and President Donald Trump.

Putin and Pence spoke in Singapore last week about key issues that could be discussed at the meeting between the two leaders, expected to take place at the G20 summit in Argentina in late November, a Kremlin spokesman said.

Pence raised the issue of external meddling in the US election but Putin told him that "the Russian state had nothing to do ... and can not have anything to do with meddling" in any electoral processes, Interfax quoted Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov as saying.

Last week, President Trump had called the Russia investigations as "disgrace to the nation", after he fired attorney general Jeff Sessions.

"They have found no collusion and have gone absolutely nuts. They are screaming and shouting at people, horribly threatening them to come up with the answers they want," Trump wrote on Twitter.

"They are a disgrace to our Nation and don't care how many lives (they) ruin."

Amid the row, top Democrats stepped up pressure on acting US Attorney General Matthew Whitaker to step aside from overseeing a special counsel probe into Russian meddling in the 2016 US presidential election, vowing to order him to testify early next year.

Democrats have increasingly expressed alarm since last week, when President Donald Trump ordered Attorney General Jeff Sessions to resign and replaced him with Whitaker, Sessions' chief of staff.

Russian President Vladimir Putin told US vice president Mike Pence that Russia had nothing to do with meddling in the 2016 US election, Interfax reported on Monday, during discussions about an upcoming meeting between Putin and President Donald Trump.

Russian President Vladimir Putin told US vice president Mike Pence that Russia had nothing to do with meddling in the 2016 US election, Interfax reported on Monday, during discussions about an upcoming meeting between Putin and President Donald Trump. Putin and Pence spoke in Singapore last week about key issues that could be discussed at the meeting between the two leaders, expected to take place at the G20 summit in Argentina in late November, a Kremlin spokesman said. Pence raised the issue of external meddling in the US election but Putin told him that "the Russian state had nothing to do ... and can not have anything to do with meddling" in any electoral processes, Interfax quoted Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov as saying. Last week, President Trump had called the Russia investigations as "disgrace to the nation", after he fired attorney general Jeff Sessions. "They have found no collusion and have gone absolutely nuts. They are screaming and shouting at people, horribly threatening them to come up with the answers they want," Trump wrote on Twitter. "They are a disgrace to our Nation and don't care how many lives (they) ruin." Amid the row, top Democrats stepped up pressure on acting US Attorney General Matthew Whitaker to step aside from overseeing a special counsel probe into Russian meddling in the 2016 US presidential election, vowing to order him to testify early next year. Democrats have increasingly expressed alarm since last week, when President Donald Trump ordered Attorney General Jeff Sessions to resign and replaced him with Whitaker, Sessions' chief of staff.

Russia had nothing to do with meddling in 2016 US elections: Putin to US vice president Pence

The Kremlin hit out Wednesday at the "unpredictability" of the United States under the Trump administration, saying it was causing "deep global concern".

"The fact that America has become unpredictable lately is no secret to anyone," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Dozhd TV during a visit by President Vladimir Putin to a regional summit in Singapore.

"Such unpredictability from the largest country, the most powerful economy in the world, is the subject of deep global concern," he added.

Peskov's comments come two weeks ahead of a slated face-to-face between President Donald Trump and Putin at a G20 summit in Argentina.

Relations between the two countries have hit new lows with American officials planning to roll out fresh sanctions against Moscow in response to the botched poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal in Britain.

Western governments have accused Russia of being behind the plot which saw Skripal and his daughter poisoned with a nerve agent. Two British citizens were also poisoned, one of whom died.

Moscow has denied being behind the brazen hit and has condemned efforts to sanction it over the incident.

"We do not recognise these unilateral restrictions... and we consider them illegitimate," Peskov said of the threatened sanctions, adding they would only "further complicate" Russia-US relations.

World leaders are currently meeting in Singapore, which is hosting the annual Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit.

Trump is not at the gathering and has sent Vice President Mike Pence instead.

Peskov said "no separate meeting" was currently planned between Putin and Pence. But he added that there was no need for a face-to-face given Trump and Putin will soon meet in Buenos Aires.

The Kremlin hit out Wednesday at the "unpredictability" of the United States under the Trump administration, saying it was causing "deep global concern". "The fact that America has become unpredictable lately is no secret to anyone," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Dozhd TV during a visit by President Vladimir Putin to a regional summit in Singapore.

The Kremlin hit out Wednesday at the "unpredictability" of the United States under the Trump administration, saying it was causing "deep global concern". "The fact that America has become unpredictable lately is no secret to anyone," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Dozhd TV during a visit by President Vladimir Putin to a regional summit in Singapore. "Such unpredictability from the largest country, the most powerful economy in the world, is the subject of deep global concern," he added. Peskov's comments come two weeks ahead of a slated face-to-face between President Donald Trump and Putin at a G20 summit in Argentina. Relations between the two countries have hit new lows with American officials planning to roll out fresh sanctions against Moscow in response to the botched poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal in Britain. Western governments have accused Russia of being behind the plot which saw Skripal and his daughter poisoned with a nerve agent. Two British citizens were also poisoned, one of whom died. Moscow has denied being behind the brazen hit and has condemned efforts to sanction it over the incident. "We do not recognise these unilateral restrictions... and we consider them illegitimate," Peskov said of the threatened sanctions, adding they would only "further complicate" Russia-US relations. World leaders are currently meeting in Singapore, which is hosting the annual Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit. Trump is not at the gathering and has sent Vice President Mike Pence instead. Peskov said "no separate meeting" was currently planned between Putin and Pence. But he added that there was no need for a face-to-face given Trump and Putin will soon meet in Buenos Aires.

Russia's Kremlin laments US 'unpredictability' under Trump

Vladimir Putin will speak "briefly" with Donald Trump when the two presidents meet in Paris this weekend for World War I centenary events, an advisor for the Russian leader said Wednesday.

"It has been agreed that the leaders of the US and Russia will talk only briefly in Paris, it will be a standing meeting," foreign policy advisor Yuri Ushakov said, Russian news agencies reported.

The prospect of a full meeting between Putin and Trump had prompted huge international media interest, the advisor said, adding that the French organisers had expressed concern this could overshadow the commemorations.&nbsp;

The pair were set for a more detailed discussion during the G20 summit in Argentina at the end of the month, to be confirmed after Paris, Ushakov said.

Trump said Monday he did not expect to hold talks with Putin during the November 11 events, which 60 heads of state and government are expected to attend.

Expectations have been growing for a new Trump-Putin meeting as tensions pile up over the Cold War-era Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) and US sanctions against Moscow.&nbsp;

Trump's National Security Advisor John Bolton indicated during a trip to Moscow in October that the White House wanted a Paris meeting and Putin said he was interested.

A first bilateral summit between the two leaders took place in Helsinki in July, after which Trump came under strong domestic criticism for adopting a distinctly conciliatory tone despite his own security services' warning that Russia meddled in US elections.

Vladimir Putin will speak "briefly" with Donald Trump when the two presidents meet in Paris this weekend for World War I centenary events, an advisor for the Russian leader said Wednesday.

Vladimir Putin will speak "briefly" with Donald Trump when the two presidents meet in Paris this weekend for World War I centenary events, an advisor for the Russian leader said Wednesday. "It has been agreed that the leaders of the US and Russia will talk only briefly in Paris, it will be a standing meeting," foreign policy advisor Yuri Ushakov said, Russian news agencies reported. The prospect of a full meeting between Putin and Trump had prompted huge international media interest, the advisor said, adding that the French organisers had expressed concern this could overshadow the commemorations. The pair were set for a more detailed discussion during the G20 summit in Argentina at the end of the month, to be confirmed after Paris, Ushakov said. Trump said Monday he did not expect to hold talks with Putin during the November 11 events, which 60 heads of state and government are expected to attend. Expectations have been growing for a new Trump-Putin meeting as tensions pile up over the Cold War-era Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) and US sanctions against Moscow. Trump's National Security Advisor John Bolton indicated during a trip to Moscow in October that the White House wanted a Paris meeting and Putin said he was interested. A first bilateral summit between the two leaders took place in Helsinki in July, after which Trump came under strong domestic criticism for adopting a distinctly conciliatory tone despite his own security services' warning that Russia meddled in US elections.

Putin, Trump to speak 'briefly' in Paris this weekend: Kremlin

Moscow hopes that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un will visit the country next year, Russian President Vladimir Putin's advisor said on Wednesday.

"I hope this visit will be possible next year," Kremlin foreign policy advisor Yuri Ushakov said, Russian news agencies reported.

He did not confirm recent reports by South Korean media that Kim could visit Russia this month.

Last month, South Korean President Moon Jae-in said he believed the youthful North leader could visit Russia "soon."

Moscow has repeatedly invited Kim to visit Russia but he has yet to respond to the offer to meet Putin.

The rapid diplomatic thaw on the Korean Peninsula since the Winter Olympics has seen Kim meet with his South Korean counterpart Moon Jae-in twice, as well as Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump.

In June, Trump and Kim signed a vaguely-worded agreement on denuclearisation but little progress has been made since then.

Moscow hopes that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un will visit the country next year, Russian President Vladimir Putin's advisor said on Wednesday. "I hope this visit will be possible next year," Kremlin foreign policy advisor Yuri Ushakov said, Russian news agencies reported.

Moscow hopes that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un will visit the country next year, Russian President Vladimir Putin's advisor said on Wednesday. "I hope this visit will be possible next year," Kremlin foreign policy advisor Yuri Ushakov said, Russian news agencies reported. He did not confirm recent reports by South Korean media that Kim could visit Russia this month. Last month, South Korean President Moon Jae-in said he believed the youthful North leader could visit Russia "soon." Moscow has repeatedly invited Kim to visit Russia but he has yet to respond to the offer to meet Putin. The rapid diplomatic thaw on the Korean Peninsula since the Winter Olympics has seen Kim meet with his South Korean counterpart Moon Jae-in twice, as well as Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump. In June, Trump and Kim signed a vaguely-worded agreement on denuclearisation but little progress has been made since then.

Hope Kim Jong-un will visit Russia next year: Putin's advisor

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/a-week-after-acquittal-asia-bibi-still-in-prison-176073">Asia Bibi still in prison a week after Pakistan Supreme Court orders her acquittal</a>

One week after the country's highest court ordered her release, Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian who has spent eight years on death row for blasphemy was still in prison Wednesday, with no immediate prospect of freedom.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-says-it-sees-no-prospects-for-better-russia-us-ties-176060">Kremlin says it sees no prospects for better Russia-US ties</a>

The Kremlin on Wednesday said it saw no bright prospects for an improvement in ties between Russia and the United States any time soon, as Moscow braced for a new raft of US sanctions.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-gets-a-boost-of-confidence-but-imf-bailout-still-on-the-cards-176072">Pakistan gets a boost of confidence but IMF bailout still on cards</a>

The Pakistani finance minister's bullish comments declaring the end of an economic crisis have bolstered confidence ahead of crunch talks with the International Monetary Fund on Wednesday, but the country is still likely to need a bailout.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/hal-not-contending-to-be-offset-partner-of-any-firm-chairman-176067">HAL not contending to be offset partner of any firm: Chairman</a>

Amid a political slugfest over the Rafale fighter jet deal, state-run HAL's Chairman and Managing Director R Madhavan Wednesday said the aircraft manufacturing company is contending not to be an offset partner of any original equipment manufacturer.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/analysis-loss-of-us-house-leaves-republicans-more-tied-to-trump-than-ever-176063">Loss of US House leaves Republicans more tied to Trump than ever: Report</a>

Republicans' loss of control of the US House of Representatives will leave the party with a more conservative congressional caucus that is even more bound to President Donald Trump and more united around his provocative rhetoric and hardline agenda.

&nbsp;

Asia Bibi still in prison a week after Pakistan Supreme Court orders her acquittal One week after the country's highest court ordered her release, Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian who has spent eight years on death row for blasphemy was still in prison Wednesday, with no immediate prospect of freedom.

Asia Bibi still in prison a week after Pakistan Supreme Court orders her acquittal One week after the country's highest court ordered her release, Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian who has spent eight years on death row for blasphemy was still in prison Wednesday, with no immediate prospect of freedom. Kremlin says it sees no prospects for better Russia-US ties The Kremlin on Wednesday said it saw no bright prospects for an improvement in ties between Russia and the United States any time soon, as Moscow braced for a new raft of US sanctions. Pakistan gets a boost of confidence but IMF bailout still on cards The Pakistani finance minister's bullish comments declaring the end of an economic crisis have bolstered confidence ahead of crunch talks with the International Monetary Fund on Wednesday, but the country is still likely to need a bailout. HAL not contending to be offset partner of any firm: Chairman Amid a political slugfest over the Rafale fighter jet deal, state-run HAL's Chairman and Managing Director R Madhavan Wednesday said the aircraft manufacturing company is contending not to be an offset partner of any original equipment manufacturer. Loss of US House leaves Republicans more tied to Trump than ever: Report Republicans' loss of control of the US House of Representatives will leave the party with a more conservative congressional caucus that is even more bound to President Donald Trump and more united around his provocative rhetoric and hardline agenda.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Kremlin on Wednesday said it saw no bright prospects for an improvement in ties between Russia and the United States any time soon, as Moscow braced for a new raft of US sanctions.

Speaking after Democrats took control of the lower house of Congress in a rebuke to US President Donald Trump during <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterm-elections-democrats-take-control-of-house-republicans-keep-senate-175998">midterm elections</a>, Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov painted a pessimistic picture of relations.&nbsp;

"Rosy prospects for the normalisation of Russian-US ties are not visible on the horizon," he told reporters.&nbsp;

"But that does not mean that we are not aiming for dialogue, that we don't want dialogue, because we are facing a lot of problems," he said, referring to arms control as one of outstanding issues.

"These problems will not disappear without talks."

Peskov sought to downplay concerns that the midterm result would further complicate Washington's ties with Moscow, saying that bilateral relations were already tricky and stressing that Moscow had not interfered in the US vote.

On Tuesday, the United States also said it was preparing fresh sanctions against Moscow over the attempted assassination in Britain of a former spy, after a previous round sowed chaos on Russian markets.

Three months after the United States declared that Russia violated a US law that seeks the elimination of chemical and biological weapons, the State Department told Congress in a legally-mandated follow-up that Moscow had not come into compliance. 
&nbsp;

The Kremlin on Wednesday said it saw no bright prospects for an improvement in ties between Russia and the United States any time soon, as Moscow braced for a new raft of US sanctions.

The Kremlin on Wednesday said it saw no bright prospects for an improvement in ties between Russia and the United States any time soon, as Moscow braced for a new raft of US sanctions. Speaking after Democrats took control of the lower house of Congress in a rebuke to US President Donald Trump during midterm elections, Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov painted a pessimistic picture of relations. "Rosy prospects for the normalisation of Russian-US ties are not visible on the horizon," he told reporters. "But that does not mean that we are not aiming for dialogue, that we don't want dialogue, because we are facing a lot of problems," he said, referring to arms control as one of outstanding issues. "These problems will not disappear without talks." Peskov sought to downplay concerns that the midterm result would further complicate Washington's ties with Moscow, saying that bilateral relations were already tricky and stressing that Moscow had not interfered in the US vote. On Tuesday, the United States also said it was preparing fresh sanctions against Moscow over the attempted assassination in Britain of a former spy, after a previous round sowed chaos on Russian markets. Three months after the United States declared that Russia violated a US law that seeks the elimination of chemical and biological weapons, the State Department told Congress in a legally-mandated follow-up that Moscow had not come into compliance.

Kremlin says it sees no prospects for better Russia-US ties

Six people died in floods in southern Russia which also damaged regional infrastructure including an oil pipeline, authorities said Friday, as emergency workers were struggling to provide food and water to the victims.

Flash floods affected parts of the Krasnodar region, including the area around the Black Sea resort city of Sochi, where Moscow hosted the Winter Olympics in 2014.&nbsp;

Russia's emergencies ministry said it had recovered the bodies of six people while clearing rubble and two people were hospitalised.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists that all the government services are "working in emergency mode" to battle the "ruthless elements."

The emergencies ministry said over 2,300 houses were flooded in the region.

Flash floods frequently cause devastating damage in the area wedged between the Black Sea and the Caucasus mountain range as mountain rivers swell and destroy settlements below.&nbsp;

Similar floods in 2012 killed over 150 people around Krymsk, another town in the region.

A regional subsidiary of Russian oil transport company Transneft said Friday that the flash floods and resulting landslides "damaged a pipeline" in the region's Tuapse district causing "a spill of five cubic metres of oil."

The company is working to keep the oil from getting into the Tuapse river, a major source of water for the town of Tuapse, home to over 60,000 people.

The floods also damaged a major railway line and roads, authorities said. Russian Railways, the country's rail monopoly, said Thursday that 31 passenger trains were stopped due to the damage, and passengers were being bussed to the nearest stations to continue their journeys.

Six people died in floods in southern Russia which also damaged regional infrastructure including an oil pipeline, authorities said Friday, as emergency workers were struggling to provide food and water to the victims.

Six people died in floods in southern Russia which also damaged regional infrastructure including an oil pipeline, authorities said Friday, as emergency workers were struggling to provide food and water to the victims. Flash floods affected parts of the Krasnodar region, including the area around the Black Sea resort city of Sochi, where Moscow hosted the Winter Olympics in 2014. Russia's emergencies ministry said it had recovered the bodies of six people while clearing rubble and two people were hospitalised. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists that all the government services are "working in emergency mode" to battle the "ruthless elements." The emergencies ministry said over 2,300 houses were flooded in the region. Flash floods frequently cause devastating damage in the area wedged between the Black Sea and the Caucasus mountain range as mountain rivers swell and destroy settlements below. Similar floods in 2012 killed over 150 people around Krymsk, another town in the region. A regional subsidiary of Russian oil transport company Transneft said Friday that the flash floods and resulting landslides "damaged a pipeline" in the region's Tuapse district causing "a spill of five cubic metres of oil." The company is working to keep the oil from getting into the Tuapse river, a major source of water for the town of Tuapse, home to over 60,000 people. The floods also damaged a major railway line and roads, authorities said. Russian Railways, the country's rail monopoly, said Thursday that 31 passenger trains were stopped due to the damage, and passengers were being bussed to the nearest stations to continue their journeys.

Floods kill six in southern Russia

The Kremlin said Wednesday it was ready to discuss the possibility of a summit in Washington next year between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US counterpart Donald Trump.

"Undoubtedly (we are) ready," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists after US National Security Advisor John Bolton told Russia's Interfax news agency that such a summit was possible.&nbsp;

He confirmed that the issue has been "raised" but that "so far there is no concrete decision on this."

The Kremlin is preparing for a "possible meeting" between the two leaders at an event in Paris on November 11 commemorating the centenary of the end of World War I, Peskov said.

Bolton arrived in Moscow on Sunday evening and held talks with Putin and other Russian officials. He said at a press conference that Trump wished to meet Putin at the World War I commemorations.

The US official told Interfax in an interview published Wednesday that Washington expected the two leaders to discuss in Paris a possible summit in Washington next year, after which Trump could visit Moscow.&nbsp;

Bolton's visit came just after Trump announced that the US would pull out of a Cold War-era nuclear weapons treaty. &nbsp;

Asked whether the Kremlin wanted to continue discussions with the US on the treaty, Peskov said that "as far as we understand the American side has taken the decision and is formalising in the near future the process of withdrawing from this treaty."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Kremlin said Wednesday it was ready to discuss the possibility of a summit in Washington next year between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US counterpart Donald Trump.

The Kremlin said Wednesday it was ready to discuss the possibility of a summit in Washington next year between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US counterpart Donald Trump. "Undoubtedly (we are) ready," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists after US National Security Advisor John Bolton told Russia's Interfax news agency that such a summit was possible. He confirmed that the issue has been "raised" but that "so far there is no concrete decision on this." The Kremlin is preparing for a "possible meeting" between the two leaders at an event in Paris on November 11 commemorating the centenary of the end of World War I, Peskov said. Bolton arrived in Moscow on Sunday evening and held talks with Putin and other Russian officials. He said at a press conference that Trump wished to meet Putin at the World War I commemorations. The US official told Interfax in an interview published Wednesday that Washington expected the two leaders to discuss in Paris a possible summit in Washington next year, after which Trump could visit Moscow. Bolton's visit came just after Trump announced that the US would pull out of a Cold War-era nuclear weapons treaty. Asked whether the Kremlin wanted to continue discussions with the US on the treaty, Peskov said that "as far as we understand the American side has taken the decision and is formalising in the near future the process of withdrawing from this treaty."

Kremlin says 'ready' to discuss Putin-Trump summit in US next year

The Kremlin said on Monday that Russia would be <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/after-trump-pulls-out-of-nuclear-treaty-russia-says-it-will-retaliate-172639">forced to respond in kind</a> if the United States began developing new missiles after quitting a landmark Cold War-era treaty.

President Donald Trump said on Saturday that Washington would withdraw from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty because Russia was violating the pact, triggering a warning of retaliatory measures from Moscow.

The treaty, signed by then-President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev in 1987, required the elimination of short-range and intermediate-range nuclear and conventional missiles by both countries. Its demise would raise the possibility of a spiralling arms race.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Monday that the U.S. move would make the world a more dangerous place and said Russia would be forced to act to restore the balance of military power if Washington quit the pact and started developing new missiles.

“This is a question of strategic security. Such measures can make the world more dangerous,” Peskov said of the planned U.S. withdrawal.

President Vladimir Putin had repeatedly said that the demise of the treaty would force Russia to take specific steps to protect its own security, Peskov said.

"It means that the United States is not disguising, but is openly starting to develop these systems in the future, and if these systems are being developed, then actions are necessary from other countries, in this case Russia, to restore balance in this sphere,” said Peskov.

There was a six-month period for the United States to withdraw from the treaty after Washington gave official notification it was leaving, he said, something he noted it had not yet done.

That meant the question of Russia developing its own new intermediate-range missiles -- something Washington accuses it of doing anyway -- was not "for today or tomorrow," he said.

Trump's national security adviser John Bolton is due to hold talks with senior officials in Moscow later on Monday and to meet Putin on Tuesday.

Peskov said Trump's decision to quit the pact would obviously be a subject for discussion and that Moscow was looking for a detailed explanation for why Washington had decided to turn its back on the treaty.

Russia denied U.S. accusations it had breached the treaty, said Peskov, alleging that the United States had been steadily undermining it.

"Putin has said many times said the United States de facto is taking measures that are eroding the conditions of this treaty," said Peskov, referring to strike drones and anti-missile systems capable of destroying short- and intermediate-range rockets. 
&nbsp;

The Kremlin said on Monday that Russia would be forced to respond in kind if the United States began developing new missiles after quitting a landmark Cold War-era treaty.

The Kremlin said on Monday that Russia would be forced to respond in kind if the United States began developing new missiles after quitting a landmark Cold War-era treaty. President Donald Trump said on Saturday that Washington would withdraw from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty because Russia was violating the pact, triggering a warning of retaliatory measures from Moscow. The treaty, signed by then-President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev in 1987, required the elimination of short-range and intermediate-range nuclear and conventional missiles by both countries. Its demise would raise the possibility of a spiralling arms race. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Monday that the U.S. move would make the world a more dangerous place and said Russia would be forced to act to restore the balance of military power if Washington quit the pact and started developing new missiles. “This is a question of strategic security. Such measures can make the world more dangerous,” Peskov said of the planned U.S. withdrawal. President Vladimir Putin had repeatedly said that the demise of the treaty would force Russia to take specific steps to protect its own security, Peskov said. "It means that the United States is not disguising, but is openly starting to develop these systems in the future, and if these systems are being developed, then actions are necessary from other countries, in this case Russia, to restore balance in this sphere,” said Peskov. There was a six-month period for the United States to withdraw from the treaty after Washington gave official notification it was leaving, he said, something he noted it had not yet done. That meant the question of Russia developing its own new intermediate-range missiles -- something Washington accuses it of doing anyway -- was not "for today or tomorrow," he said. Trump's national security adviser John Bolton is due to hold talks with senior officials in Moscow later on Monday and to meet Putin on Tuesday. Peskov said Trump's decision to quit the pact would obviously be a subject for discussion and that Moscow was looking for a detailed explanation for why Washington had decided to turn its back on the treaty. Russia denied U.S. accusations it had breached the treaty, said Peskov, alleging that the United States had been steadily undermining it. "Putin has said many times said the United States de facto is taking measures that are eroding the conditions of this treaty," said Peskov, referring to strike drones and anti-missile systems capable of destroying short- and intermediate-range rockets.

We'll respond in kind if US develops intermediate missiles: Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin will oversee the signing of a $5 billion deal this week to supply Delhi with S-400 air defence systems, a top Kremlin aide said on Tuesday ahead of Putin's trip to India.

"The president is leaving for India on October 4," Putin's top foreign policy aide Yury Ushakov told reporters.

"The key feature of this visit will be the signing of the agreement to deliver S-400 air defence systems," he said. "The value of the contract will be more than $5 billion."

Moscow has been negotiating to sell the S-400 long-range surface-to-air missiles to India for months.

The sale has irked India's defence partner Washington, which has wanted to wean India off Russian technology, and a senior Pentagon official said in August that sanctions against India would come under consideration if its purchase goes through.

India has signalled it will ask Washington for a special waiver from sanctions, though a US official last week said there is no guarantee it would do so.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will oversee the signing of a $5 billion deal this week to supply Delhi with S-400 air defence systems, a top Kremlin aide said on Tuesday ahead of Putin's trip to India.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will oversee the signing of a $5 billion deal this week to supply Delhi with S-400 air defence systems, a top Kremlin aide said on Tuesday ahead of Putin's trip to India. "The president is leaving for India on October 4," Putin's top foreign policy aide Yury Ushakov told reporters. "The key feature of this visit will be the signing of the agreement to deliver S-400 air defence systems," he said. "The value of the contract will be more than $5 billion." Moscow has been negotiating to sell the S-400 long-range surface-to-air missiles to India for months. The sale has irked India's defence partner Washington, which has wanted to wean India off Russian technology, and a senior Pentagon official said in August that sanctions against India would come under consideration if its purchase goes through. India has signalled it will ask Washington for a special waiver from sanctions, though a US official last week said there is no guarantee it would do so.

Russia, India to sign deal on S-400 air defence systems this week: Kremlin

The Kremlin said Friday it was difficult to separate truth from fiction in media reports after a respected investigative group revealed the identity of a suspect in the poisoning of ex-spy Sergei Skripal.

"Over the past months, a lot of news about the Skripals' affair has appeared in British media and media in other countries," Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

"No one can truly figure out which news is fake and which is true," he told reporters, doubting that it was possible to check the identities of the people mentioned in media reports.

On Wednesday, Bellingcat, the British based investigative group, said that the real name of Ruslan Boshirov, one of the two men accused by British authorities of poisoning Skripal and his daughter Yulia, was Anatoly Chepiga.

The 39-year-old is a military intelligence colonel decorated with the country's top award, the Hero of Russia, Bellingcat said.

The report included a passport photo of Chepiga from 2003 which resembles a younger version of the photo of Boshirov released by British authorities.

Peskov said the Kremlin no longer wanted to discuss the subject with journalists, saying the fact that someone may resemble Boshirov did not prove anything.

"I beg your pardon but we have 10 Stalins and 15 Lenins running around Red Square," Peskov said, referring to street performers impersonating Russia's Soviet leaders.

"They all look extremely similar to the originals."

Peskov also denied that the suspect was awarded the country's top award.

"We have checked it. I have no information about a man with such a name being awarded."

Chepiga was bestowed the Hero of Russia award in 2014 for "conducting a peace-keeping mission," a likely reference to the Ukraine conflict.

Bellingcat said it was "highly likely" that Putin knew Chepiga because he personally hands out these awards.

Only a handful of such awards are given each year, often posthumously.

A respected Russian broadsheet, Kommersant, said Thursday that several residents of a small far eastern village where Chepiga's family used to live, identified him as one of the suspects wanted by Britain.

The Kremlin said Friday it was difficult to separate truth from fiction in media reports after a respected investigative group revealed the identity of a suspect in the poisoning of ex-spy Sergei Skripal.

The Kremlin said Friday it was difficult to separate truth from fiction in media reports after a respected investigative group revealed the identity of a suspect in the poisoning of ex-spy Sergei Skripal. "Over the past months, a lot of news about the Skripals' affair has appeared in British media and media in other countries," Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. "No one can truly figure out which news is fake and which is true," he told reporters, doubting that it was possible to check the identities of the people mentioned in media reports. On Wednesday, Bellingcat, the British based investigative group, said that the real name of Ruslan Boshirov, one of the two men accused by British authorities of poisoning Skripal and his daughter Yulia, was Anatoly Chepiga. The 39-year-old is a military intelligence colonel decorated with the country's top award, the Hero of Russia, Bellingcat said. The report included a passport photo of Chepiga from 2003 which resembles a younger version of the photo of Boshirov released by British authorities. Peskov said the Kremlin no longer wanted to discuss the subject with journalists, saying the fact that someone may resemble Boshirov did not prove anything. "I beg your pardon but we have 10 Stalins and 15 Lenins running around Red Square," Peskov said, referring to street performers impersonating Russia's Soviet leaders. "They all look extremely similar to the originals." Peskov also denied that the suspect was awarded the country's top award. "We have checked it. I have no information about a man with such a name being awarded." Chepiga was bestowed the Hero of Russia award in 2014 for "conducting a peace-keeping mission," a likely reference to the Ukraine conflict. Bellingcat said it was "highly likely" that Putin knew Chepiga because he personally hands out these awards. Only a handful of such awards are given each year, often posthumously. A respected Russian broadsheet, Kommersant, said Thursday that several residents of a small far eastern village where Chepiga's family used to live, identified him as one of the suspects wanted by Britain.

Hard to tell truth from fiction in Skripal affair: Kremlin

The Kremlin on Monday accused Israeli pilots of "premeditated actions" over the downing of a Russian plane in Syria last week, warning it will harm relations between the two countries.

"According to information of our military experts, the reason (behind the downing) were premeditated actions by Israeli pilots which certainly cannot but harm our relations," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists.&nbsp;

Peskov's remarks followed an announcement by Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu that Moscow will be sending an advanced S-300 air defence system to the Syrian military as well as jamming communications of any military planes that attack Syria from over the Mediterranean.

On September 17, a Russian Il-20 plane was hit by a Syrian S-200 air defence missile when it was landing following strikes by Israeli F-16 planes of western Syria. Moscow blamed the friendly fire incident on Israeli pilots using the larger Russian plane as "cover."

Peskov said the new measures were decided on to boost the security of its troops in Syria.

"Russia in this case is acting in its interests only, these actions are not directed against third countries, but towards defending our own military," he said

The Kremlin on Monday accused Israeli pilots of "premeditated actions" over the downing of a Russian plane in Syria last week, warning it will harm relations between the two countries.

The Kremlin on Monday accused Israeli pilots of "premeditated actions" over the downing of a Russian plane in Syria last week, warning it will harm relations between the two countries. "According to information of our military experts, the reason (behind the downing) were premeditated actions by Israeli pilots which certainly cannot but harm our relations," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists. Peskov's remarks followed an announcement by Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu that Moscow will be sending an advanced S-300 air defence system to the Syrian military as well as jamming communications of any military planes that attack Syria from over the Mediterranean. On September 17, a Russian Il-20 plane was hit by a Syrian S-200 air defence missile when it was landing following strikes by Israeli F-16 planes of western Syria. Moscow blamed the friendly fire incident on Israeli pilots using the larger Russian plane as "cover." Peskov said the new measures were decided on to boost the security of its troops in Syria. "Russia in this case is acting in its interests only, these actions are not directed against third countries, but towards defending our own military," he said

Russia says plane downing result of 'premeditated' actions by Israeli pilots

The Kremlin said&nbsp;on Wednesday&nbsp;that a summit between US&nbsp;President Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un showed Russian President Vladimir Putin had been right to advocate direct dialogue as the only way of reducing tensions with North Korea.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on a conference call that the summit, held in Singapore&nbsp;on Tuesday, had helped reduce tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

But he said it would have been wrong to have expected that all of the issues surrounding North Korea's missile and nuclear programme could have been solved in an hour.

"We still need to analyse the results of the meeting," said Peskov. "But the fact that it took place can only be welcomed. Such meetings help ease tensions and move us away from the critical point reached several months ago."

Russia and China have long been pushing a joint de-escalation plan that suggests Pyongyang suspend its ballistic missile programme in return for the United States and South Korea ceasing large-scale missile exercises.

Peskov said the summit showed that Putin - who he said would meet Kim Yong Nam, a top official from North Korea's Supreme People's Assembly in Moscow&nbsp;on Thursday&nbsp;- had been right all along.

"In such complicated conditions, it would have been wrong to hope that the problems could be solved in an hour," said Peskov, referring to the meeting.

"But the very fact (that the summit took place) underlines that Putin was right. The only possible path is one of direct dialogue."

Separately, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told a news conference in Moscow with his Greek counterpart that Moscow advocated a return to six-party talks to work through some of the issues and that it was important that the entire Korean Peninsula, not just North Korea, was free of nuclear arms.

Lavrov said it was unlikely that Washington and Pyongyang would be able to fully solve all the problems on the Korean Peninsula, saying a new security system was needed for all of north-east Asia.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on a conference call that the summit, held in Singapore on Tuesday, had helped reduce tensions on the Korean Peninsula

The Kremlin said on Wednesday that a summit between US President Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un showed Russian President Vladimir Putin had been right to advocate direct dialogue as the only way of reducing tensions with North Korea. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on a conference call that the summit, held in Singapore on Tuesday, had helped reduce tensions on the Korean Peninsula. But he said it would have been wrong to have expected that all of the issues surrounding North Korea's missile and nuclear programme could have been solved in an hour. "We still need to analyse the results of the meeting," said Peskov. "But the fact that it took place can only be welcomed. Such meetings help ease tensions and move us away from the critical point reached several months ago." Russia and China have long been pushing a joint de-escalation plan that suggests Pyongyang suspend its ballistic missile programme in return for the United States and South Korea ceasing large-scale missile exercises. Peskov said the summit showed that Putin - who he said would meet Kim Yong Nam, a top official from North Korea's Supreme People's Assembly in Moscow on Thursday - had been right all along. "In such complicated conditions, it would have been wrong to hope that the problems could be solved in an hour," said Peskov, referring to the meeting. "But the very fact (that the summit took place) underlines that Putin was right. The only possible path is one of direct dialogue." Separately, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told a news conference in Moscow with his Greek counterpart that Moscow advocated a return to six-party talks to work through some of the issues and that it was important that the entire Korean Peninsula, not just North Korea, was free of nuclear arms. Lavrov said it was unlikely that Washington and Pyongyang would be able to fully solve all the problems on the Korean Peninsula, saying a new security system was needed for all of north-east Asia.

Kremlin says Trump-Kim summit proves Putin was right about North Korea

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Sunday it was too early to discuss in detail a possible prisoner exchange with Ukraine, amid hopes for the release of film director Oleg Sentsov and others during the World Cup.

But the Kremlin leader indicated that backdoor negotiations were apparently underway, raising hopes for the release of dozens of prisoners including Sentsov, who is undertaking a high-profile hunger strike at a prison in Russia's far north.

"It's so far premature to say how this issue will be solved," Putin told reporters at a security summit in the Chinese city of Qingdao, adding he would not want to comment for now "so as not to violate anything here and not to disrupt anything."

Putin and Ukrainian leader Petro Poroshenko discussed a possible exchange of prisoners in a rare phone call Saturday and agreed that officials from the two countries would visit their prisoners "in the near future".

Putin said it was Poroshenko who initiated the discussion.

Fears have grown in recent weeks that Sentsov, a 41-year-old Ukrainian director and author who is serving a 20-year prison sentence on terrorism charges in Russia, could die behind bars.

He went on hunger strike on May 14 to demand Russia release dozens of Ukrainian political prisoners, timing his protest to coincide with the month-long football extravaganza that begins on Thursday.

The father of two said he was ready to die in prison, drawing comparisons with Soviet-era dissident Anatoly Marchenko, who starved himself to death in prison in 1986 after he demanded Moscow release its prisoners of conscience.

Sentsov, who is also a pro-Ukrainian activist, was detained in Crimea in 2014 after Russia annexed the peninsula and moved to support pro-Moscow separatists in the east of Ukraine, in a conflict that has since claimed more than 10,000 lives.

According to Kiev's estimates, Moscow is currently holding around 70 Ukrainian political prisoners.

Kiev said it was ready to exchange "23 Russians who were conducting spying activities in Ukraine".

Putin and Poroshenko spoke on the phone ahead of key talks Monday in Berlin between the Russian and Ukrainian foreign ministers that will also include German and French representatives.

The talks are aimed at reviving a stalled peace process in eastern Ukraine and putting an end to lingering clashes between Ukrainian government troops and pro-Russian rebels.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Sunday it was too early to discuss in detail a possible prisoner exchange with Ukraine, amid hopes for the release of film director Oleg Sentsov and others during the World Cup.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Sunday it was too early to discuss in detail a possible prisoner exchange with Ukraine, amid hopes for the release of film director Oleg Sentsov and others during the World Cup. But the Kremlin leader indicated that backdoor negotiations were apparently underway, raising hopes for the release of dozens of prisoners including Sentsov, who is undertaking a high-profile hunger strike at a prison in Russia's far north. "It's so far premature to say how this issue will be solved," Putin told reporters at a security summit in the Chinese city of Qingdao, adding he would not want to comment for now "so as not to violate anything here and not to disrupt anything." Putin and Ukrainian leader Petro Poroshenko discussed a possible exchange of prisoners in a rare phone call Saturday and agreed that officials from the two countries would visit their prisoners "in the near future". Putin said it was Poroshenko who initiated the discussion. Fears have grown in recent weeks that Sentsov, a 41-year-old Ukrainian director and author who is serving a 20-year prison sentence on terrorism charges in Russia, could die behind bars. He went on hunger strike on May 14 to demand Russia release dozens of Ukrainian political prisoners, timing his protest to coincide with the month-long football extravaganza that begins on Thursday. The father of two said he was ready to die in prison, drawing comparisons with Soviet-era dissident Anatoly Marchenko, who starved himself to death in prison in 1986 after he demanded Moscow release its prisoners of conscience. Sentsov, who is also a pro-Ukrainian activist, was detained in Crimea in 2014 after Russia annexed the peninsula and moved to support pro-Moscow separatists in the east of Ukraine, in a conflict that has since claimed more than 10,000 lives. According to Kiev's estimates, Moscow is currently holding around 70 Ukrainian political prisoners. Kiev said it was ready to exchange "23 Russians who were conducting spying activities in Ukraine". Putin and Poroshenko spoke on the phone ahead of key talks Monday in Berlin between the Russian and Ukrainian foreign ministers that will also include German and French representatives. The talks are aimed at reviving a stalled peace process in eastern Ukraine and putting an end to lingering clashes between Ukrainian government troops and pro-Russian rebels.

Putin says 'premature' to divulge details of Ukraine prisoner exchange

Russian leader Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko discussed Saturday a possible exchange of prisoners, the Kremlin said, raising hopes that hunger-striking film director Oleg Sentsov and others could be released ahead of the start of the World Cup next week.

"Special attention was paid to humanitarian issues including an exchange of people being held" by the two sides, the Kremlin said in a statement following the rare phone conversation by the two leaders.

Putin stressed that Russian journalists arrested in Ukraine should be released immediately, the Kremlin said, adding that the conflict in eastern Ukraine was also discussed.

Poroshenko for his part stressed that Sentsov, who has been on hunger strike since May 14, and other "Ukrainian political prisoners" should be released "as soon as possible."

"The head of the Ukrainian state drew attention to Ukrainians' hunger strikes and expressed concern over their deteriorating health," his office said in a statement.

Both Moscow and Kiev said the two leaders agreed that a rights ombudsmen would visit the two countries' prisoners "in the near future". No other details were provided.

Sentsov, who is serving a 20-year sentence on terrorism charges in Russia's far north, is demanding that Moscow release dozens of Ukrainian political prisoners languishing in Russian prisons.

His supporters said the father of two was prepared to die in prison, clouding Russia's chance to shine on the world stage during the World Cup which begins on Thursday.

Ukrainian activist Oleksandr Kolchenko, who is serving a 10-year sentence in a Russian prison after being convicted of terrorism together with Sentsov, also launched a hunger strike in solidarity with Sentsov.

He, however, halted his protest earlier this week due to his poor health.

Putin and Poroshenko spoke on the phone ahead of talks Monday in Berlin between the Russian and Ukrainian foreign ministers that will also involve Germany and France.

The talks are aimed at reviving a stalled peace process in eastern Ukraine. Efforts to put an end to a four-year conflict between Ukranian government troops and pro-Russian rebels that has claimed more than 10,000 lives since 2014 have come to a halt.

The announcement raised hopes of hunger-striking film director Oleg Sentsov and others could be released ahead of the start of the World Cup next week

Russian leader Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko discussed Saturday a possible exchange of prisoners, the Kremlin said, raising hopes that hunger-striking film director Oleg Sentsov and others could be released ahead of the start of the World Cup next week. "Special attention was paid to humanitarian issues including an exchange of people being held" by the two sides, the Kremlin said in a statement following the rare phone conversation by the two leaders. Putin stressed that Russian journalists arrested in Ukraine should be released immediately, the Kremlin said, adding that the conflict in eastern Ukraine was also discussed. Poroshenko for his part stressed that Sentsov, who has been on hunger strike since May 14, and other "Ukrainian political prisoners" should be released "as soon as possible." "The head of the Ukrainian state drew attention to Ukrainians' hunger strikes and expressed concern over their deteriorating health," his office said in a statement. Both Moscow and Kiev said the two leaders agreed that a rights ombudsmen would visit the two countries' prisoners "in the near future". No other details were provided. Sentsov, who is serving a 20-year sentence on terrorism charges in Russia's far north, is demanding that Moscow release dozens of Ukrainian political prisoners languishing in Russian prisons. His supporters said the father of two was prepared to die in prison, clouding Russia's chance to shine on the world stage during the World Cup which begins on Thursday. Ukrainian activist Oleksandr Kolchenko, who is serving a 10-year sentence in a Russian prison after being convicted of terrorism together with Sentsov, also launched a hunger strike in solidarity with Sentsov. He, however, halted his protest earlier this week due to his poor health. Putin and Poroshenko spoke on the phone ahead of talks Monday in Berlin between the Russian and Ukrainian foreign ministers that will also involve Germany and France. The talks are aimed at reviving a stalled peace process in eastern Ukraine. Efforts to put an end to a four-year conflict between Ukranian government troops and pro-Russian rebels that has claimed more than 10,000 lives since 2014 have come to a halt.

Russia and Ukraine discuss 'exchange' of prisoners: Kremlin

Vienna is one of the cities being considered as the venue for a possible summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Donald Trump, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Saturday.

Putin said last month that the proposed summit between him and Trump was not working out for now and was beset by problems.

Trump had said in March that the two leaders would meet soon, but since then already poor ties between Washington and Moscow have deteriorated further over the conflict in Syria and the poisoning of a former Russian spy in Britain.

Trump said in March that the two leaders would meet soon

Vienna is one of the cities being considered as the venue for a possible summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Donald Trump, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Saturday. Putin said last month that the proposed summit between him and Trump was not working out for now and was beset by problems. Trump had said in March that the two leaders would meet soon, but since then already poor ties between Washington and Moscow have deteriorated further over the conflict in Syria and the poisoning of a former Russian spy in Britain.

Vienna being considered as venue for possible Putin-Trump summit: Kremlin

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-to-challenge-the-appointment-of-kg-bopaiah-as-pro-tem-speaker-in-the-sc-137972">Karnataka crisis: Congress to challenge KG Bopaiah's appointment as pro-tem Speaker in Supreme Court</a>

Congress to challenge the appointment of KG Bopaiah as pro-tem Speaker in the Supreme Court on Friday. According to television reports, Congress is moving Supreme Court to challenge the Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala's decision to appoint KG Bopiah as pro-tem speaker ahead of the floor test on Saturday 4 pm.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-pm-modis-visit-to-jk-pakistan-summons-indian-high-commissioner-over-unprovoked-ceasefire-violations-along-loc-137934">Pakistan summons Indian High Commissioner over 'unprovoked ceasefire violations' along LoC</a>

As PM Modi prepares to visit J&K on Saturday, Pakistan today summoned Indian High Commissioner over "unprovoked ceasefire violations" allegedly carried out by Indian forces along the Line of Control(LoC).

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-allows-karti-chidambaram-to-travel-abroad-137929">Supreme Court allows Karti Chidambaram to travel abroad</a>

The Supreme Court on Friday allowed Karti Chidambaram, son of senior Congress leader P Chidambaram, to travel to offshore locations in United Kingdom, Germany and Spain with certain conditions, including that he would not open or close a bank account abroad.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-denies-offering-200-billion-package-to-slash-us-trade-gap-137953">China denies offering $200 billion </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-denies-offering-200-billion-package-to-slash-us-trade-gap-137953">package</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-denies-offering-200-billion-package-to-slash-us-trade-gap-137953"> to slash US trade gap</a>

China denied on Friday that it had offered a package to slash the US trade deficit by up to $200 billion, hours after it dropped an anti-dumping probe into US sorghum imports in a conciliatory gesture as top negotiators meet in Washington.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/congo-faces-very-high-risk-from-ebola-outbreak-who--137926">Congo faces 'very high' risk from Ebola outbreak: WHO</a>

Democratic Republic of Congo faces a "very high" public health risk from Ebola because the disease has been confirmed in a patient in a big city, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday, raising its assessment from "high" previously.

&nbsp

Karnataka crisis: Congress to challenge KG Bopaiah's appointment as pro-tem Speaker in Supreme Court Congress to challenge the appointment of KG Bopaiah as pro-tem Speaker in the Supreme Court on Friday. According to television reports, Congress is moving Supreme Court to challenge the Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala's decision to appoint KG Bopiah as pro-tem speaker ahead of the floor test on Saturday 4 pm. Pakistan summons Indian High Commissioner over 'unprovoked ceasefire violations' along LoC As PM Modi prepares to visit J&K on Saturday, Pakistan today summoned Indian High Commissioner over "unprovoked ceasefire violations" allegedly carried out by Indian forces along the Line of Control(LoC). Supreme Court allows Karti Chidambaram to travel abroad The Supreme Court on Friday allowed Karti Chidambaram, son of senior Congress leader P Chidambaram, to travel to offshore locations in United Kingdom, Germany and Spain with certain conditions, including that he would not open or close a bank account abroad. China denies offering $200 billion package to slash US trade gap China denied on Friday that it had offered a package to slash the US trade deficit by up to $200 billion, hours after it dropped an anti-dumping probe into US sorghum imports in a conciliatory gesture as top negotiators meet in Washington. Congo faces 'very high' risk from Ebola outbreak: WHO Democratic Republic of Congo faces a "very high" public health risk from Ebola because the disease has been confirmed in a patient in a big city, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday, raising its assessment from "high" previously.

Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev on Friday unveiled who will be in his new cabinet.

The following is a list of the ministers in the new Russian new government

Prime minister

Dmitry Medvedev - 52. Was reappointed to the position he has held since 2012. Served as Russian president from 2008 to 2012.

Deputy Prime ministers

Konstantin Chuyuchenko - 52, Government Chief of Staff and Deputy Prime Minister. Was Kremlin aide from 2008.

Anton Siluanov - 55, First Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister. Held the finance minister position since the end of 2011.

Dmitry Kobak - 59, Deputy Prime Minister responsible for energy and industry sectors. Has been a deputy prime minister from 2008.

Vitaly Mutko - 59, Deputy Prime Minister responsible for construction and regional development. From 2012 to 2016 was Sports Minister than was appointment to Deputy Prime Minister position later.

Yuri Borisov - 61, Deputy Prime Minister responsible for defence industry complex. Was Deputy Defence Minister since 2012.

Maxim Akimov - 48, Deputy Prime Minister responsible for transport and communications. Was First Deputy Government Chief of Staff in previous government.

Alexei Gordeyev - 63, Deputy Prime Minister responsible for agro-industrial complex. He was Agriculture Minister from 1999 to 2009. After this was governor of Voronezh Region and Putin's Envoy in the Central Russian region.

Tatiana Golikova - 52, Deputy Prime Minister responsible for welfare. Was the head of Russia's Audit Chamber since 2013, also a former Minister of Health and Social Development.

Olga Golodets - 56, Deputy Prime Minister responsible for culture and sport. Was Deputy Prime Minister in the previous government since 2012.

Oleg Trutnev - 62, Deputy Prime Minister responsible for Russian Far East development. Was Deputy Prime Minister since 2013.

Ministers

Finance Minister - Anton Siluanov

Energy Minister - Alexander Novak, 46. Held this position since 2012.

Foreign Minister - Sergei Lavrov, 68. Held this position from 2004.

Defence Minister - Sergei Shoigu, 62. Held this position since 2012.

Economy Minister - Maxim Oreshkin, 35. Held this position since 2016.

Industry and Trade Minister - Denis Manturov, 49. Held this position since 2012.

Agriculture Minister - Dmitry Patrushev, 40 years. Held the position of Chairman of the board of directors of Russian Agricultural Bank.

Sport Minister - Pavel Kolobkov, 48. Held this position from 2016.

Minister of Internal Affairs - Vladimir Kolokoltsev, 57. Held this position from 2012.

Emergencies Minister - Yevgeny Zinichev, 51. Held the position of Deputy Director of Federal Security Service.

Transport Minister - Yevgeny Ditrikh, 45. Held the position of Deputy Transport Minister since 2015.

Education Minister - Olga Vasilieva, 58. Held this position from 2016.

Science and Higher Education Minister - Mikhail Kotukov, 41. Held the position of the head of Federal Agency for Scientific Organizations.

Minister of Natural Resources and Ecology - Dmitry Kobylkin, 46. Held the position of governor of Yamalo-Nenets district since 2010.

Minister of Health - Veronika Skvortsova, 57. Held this position from 2016.

Minister of Labour and Social Development - Maxim Topilin, 51. Held this position since 2012.

Justice Minister - Alexander Konovalov, 49. Held this position from 2008.

Culture Minister - Vladimir Medinskiy, 48. Held this position from 2012.

Minister of Construction - Vladimir Yakushev, 49. Held the position of governor of the Tyumen Region since 2005.

Minister of Communications - Konstantin Noskov, 39. Held the position of head of Government Analytical Centre since 2012.

Minister for development of the Far East - Alexander Kozlov, 36. Held the position of governor of Amur Region since 2015.

Minister for development of the North Caucasus - Sergey Chebotarev. According to publicly-available information, he held the position of Deputy Head of Presidential administration's department of trans-regional and cultural ties with foreign countries.

Dmitry Medvedev was reappointed to the position he has held since 2012

Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev on Friday unveiled who will be in his new cabinet. The following is a list of the ministers in the new Russian new government Prime minister Dmitry Medvedev - 52. Was reappointed to the position he has held since 2012. Served as Russian president from 2008 to 2012. Deputy Prime ministers Konstantin Chuyuchenko - 52, Government Chief of Staff and Deputy Prime Minister. Was Kremlin aide from 2008. Anton Siluanov - 55, First Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister. Held the finance minister position since the end of 2011. Dmitry Kobak - 59, Deputy Prime Minister responsible for energy and industry sectors. Has been a deputy prime minister from 2008. Vitaly Mutko - 59, Deputy Prime Minister responsible for construction and regional development. From 2012 to 2016 was Sports Minister than was appointment to Deputy Prime Minister position later. Yuri Borisov - 61, Deputy Prime Minister responsible for defence industry complex. Was Deputy Defence Minister since 2012. Maxim Akimov - 48, Deputy Prime Minister responsible for transport and communications. Was First Deputy Government Chief of Staff in previous government. Alexei Gordeyev - 63, Deputy Prime Minister responsible for agro-industrial complex. He was Agriculture Minister from 1999 to 2009. After this was governor of Voronezh Region and Putin's Envoy in the Central Russian region. Tatiana Golikova - 52, Deputy Prime Minister responsible for welfare. Was the head of Russia's Audit Chamber since 2013, also a former Minister of Health and Social Development. Olga Golodets - 56, Deputy Prime Minister responsible for culture and sport. Was Deputy Prime Minister in the previous government since 2012. Oleg Trutnev - 62, Deputy Prime Minister responsible for Russian Far East development. Was Deputy Prime Minister since 2013. Ministers Finance Minister - Anton Siluanov Energy Minister - Alexander Novak, 46. Held this position since 2012. Foreign Minister - Sergei Lavrov, 68. Held this position from 2004. Defence Minister - Sergei Shoigu, 62. Held this position since 2012. Economy Minister - Maxim Oreshkin, 35. Held this position since 2016. Industry and Trade Minister - Denis Manturov, 49. Held this position since 2012. Agriculture Minister - Dmitry Patrushev, 40 years. Held the position of Chairman of the board of directors of Russian Agricultural Bank. Sport Minister - Pavel Kolobkov, 48. Held this position from 2016. Minister of Internal Affairs - Vladimir Kolokoltsev, 57. Held this position from 2012. Emergencies Minister - Yevgeny Zinichev, 51. Held the position of Deputy Director of Federal Security Service. Transport Minister - Yevgeny Ditrikh, 45. Held the position of Deputy Transport Minister since 2015. Education Minister - Olga Vasilieva, 58. Held this position from 2016. Science and Higher Education Minister - Mikhail Kotukov, 41. Held the position of the head of Federal Agency for Scientific Organizations. Minister of Natural Resources and Ecology - Dmitry Kobylkin, 46. Held the position of governor of Yamalo-Nenets district since 2010. Minister of Health - Veronika Skvortsova, 57. Held this position from 2016. Minister of Labour and Social Development - Maxim Topilin, 51. Held this position since 2012. Justice Minister - Alexander Konovalov, 49. Held this position from 2008. Culture Minister - Vladimir Medinskiy, 48. Held this position from 2012. Minister of Construction - Vladimir Yakushev, 49. Held the position of governor of the Tyumen Region since 2005. Minister of Communications - Konstantin Noskov, 39. Held the position of head of Government Analytical Centre since 2012. Minister for development of the Far East - Alexander Kozlov, 36. Held the position of governor of Amur Region since 2015. Minister for development of the North Caucasus - Sergey Chebotarev. According to publicly-available information, he held the position of Deputy Head of Presidential administration's department of trans-regional and cultural ties with foreign countries.

Lavrov and Shoigu retain ministerial positions in Russia's new cabinet

NATO on Wednesday denounced a new bridge linking mainland Russia to Moscow-annexed Crimea as "another violation" of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The Atlantic alliance echoed the European Union's earlier condemnation of the bridge, which Russian President Vladimir Putin drove a truck over on Tuesday.

"NATO condemns Russia's construction and partial opening of the Kerch Strait bridge between Russia and Crimea," NATO deputy spokesman Piers Cazalet said.

"Crimea is part of Ukraine and this bridge represents another violation of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity," Cazalet said in a statement.

The bridge, which limits sea traffic to Ukrainian ports on the Azov Sea, amounts to "the infringement of its navigational rights in its territorial waters," he added.&nbsp

"Russia continues to demonstrate a clear disregard for international law," Cazalet said, adding that NATO will not recognise Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea.

Russian state television showed Putin dressed in jeans and a casual jacket sitting behind the wheel of a construction truck to drive across the bridge and officially open it.

The 29-member NATO is pursuing a dual-track policy towards the Kremlin of defence and deterrence coupled with an offer of dialogue.

Tensions between NATO and Russia are at levels not seen since the Cold War, including over Moscow's support for pro-Russian separatists in the conflict in eastern Ukraine.

The Atlantic alliance echoed the European Union's earlier condemnation of the bridge, which Russian President Vladimir Putin drove a truck over on Tuesday

NATO on Wednesday denounced a new bridge linking mainland Russia to Moscow-annexed Crimea as "another violation" of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Atlantic alliance echoed the European Union's earlier condemnation of the bridge, which Russian President Vladimir Putin drove a truck over on Tuesday. "NATO condemns Russia's construction and partial opening of the Kerch Strait bridge between Russia and Crimea," NATO deputy spokesman Piers Cazalet said. "Crimea is part of Ukraine and this bridge represents another violation of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity," Cazalet said in a statement. The bridge, which limits sea traffic to Ukrainian ports on the Azov Sea, amounts to "the infringement of its navigational rights in its territorial waters," he added. "Russia continues to demonstrate a clear disregard for international law," Cazalet said, adding that NATO will not recognise Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea. Russian state television showed Putin dressed in jeans and a casual jacket sitting behind the wheel of a construction truck to drive across the bridge and officially open it. The 29-member NATO is pursuing a dual-track policy towards the Kremlin of defence and deterrence coupled with an offer of dialogue. Tensions between NATO and Russia are at levels not seen since the Cold War, including over Moscow's support for pro-Russian separatists in the conflict in eastern Ukraine.

NATO 'condemns' Russia bridge to Moscow-annexed Crimea

According to reports, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev are likely to discuss ministers in Russia's new government on Tuesday.

Peskov did not name any names. Putin was sworn into the presidency last week and proposed Medvedev as prime minister.

Putin won a landslide re-election victory in March, extending his grip over the world's largest country for another six years until 2024, making him the longest-lasting leader since Soviet dictator Josef Stalin who ruled for nearly 30 years.

Putin was sworn into the presidency last week and proposed Medvedev as prime minister

According to reports, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev are likely to discuss ministers in Russia's new government on Tuesday. Peskov did not name any names. Putin was sworn into the presidency last week and proposed Medvedev as prime minister. Putin won a landslide re-election victory in March, extending his grip over the world's largest country for another six years until 2024, making him the longest-lasting leader since Soviet dictator Josef Stalin who ruled for nearly 30 years.

Putin, PM Medvedev to discuss members of new government on Tuesday

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