<p>Former TV journalist and Russian lawmaker calling for peace in Ukraine, Yekaterina Duntsova, submitted her application on Wednesday (Dec 20) to challenge incumbent President Vladimir Putin in the country’s upcoming elections in March 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She presented her documents to Russia’s Central Election Commission to register as a candidate days after taking her first steps toward candidate status Sunday. In line with the country’s law, her run had to be endorsed by 500 supporters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Humane’ Russia</strong></h2>

<p>The 40-year-old Russian lawmaker hopes to challenge Putin by promoting her vision of a “humane” Russia “that’s peaceful, friendly and ready to cooperate with everyone on the principle of respect.”</p>

<p>Duntsova, in an interview with Reuters last month, called for an end to the war in Ukraine and the release of political prisoners, including opposition leader Alexei Navalny.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She has submitted her documents to formally enter the election which Putin is expected to win, a foregone conclusion by supporters and opponents alike.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-will-run-again-in-russian-presidential-elections-next-march-667595">Vladimir Putin will run again in Russian presidential elections next March</a></strong></p>

<p>“I feel a sense of accomplishment: We’ve done everything that we needed to do. We’ve made this step, and I think it should inspire people who support us,” said Duntsova, speaking to journalists in Moscow on Wednesday.</p>

<p>If accepted as an independent candidate, the former journalist faces the herculean task of collecting 300,000 signatures of support for her candidacy, from at least 40 Russian regions, by January 31.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“(I hope that) I’ll at least be registered (as a candidate). But, of course, collecting signatures is a huge job and I hope that people will be actively taking part.”</p>

<p>She also corrected a reporter who asked if she thought the authorities would actually allow her to stand. “Why are we talking about permission if this is my right according to the law and I have that possibility and have the necessary qualities to put myself forward?” she responded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We are just moving according to the formula prescribed by federal law, and for that we don’t need anyone’s permission,” Duntsova added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In her interview with Reuters, Duntsova avoided using the word “war” to describe the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which Putin calls his “special military operation",&nbsp;but did acknowledge that she was afraid. “Any sane person taking this step would be afraid - but fear must not win.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Upcoming Russian presidential elections</strong></h2>

<p>Russian state parliament set March 17 as the date for the country’s 2024 presidential election earlier this month.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-court-filings-show-two-navalny-court-hearings-postponed-until-january-671069">Russian court filings show two Navalny court hearings postponed until January</a></strong></p>

<p>Putin, who has been in power either as president or prime minister since 1999, announced his candidacy earlier this month and has sought another six-year term. If he wins, this will be the 71-year-old incumbent’s 5th term in office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Over his more than two decades in power, Putin has established tight control on Russia’s political system, and with prominent critics in jail or outside the country at risk of arrest, there are no established opposition figures to challenge him.</p>

<p>Navalny’s supporters have called the process a sham, saying the Kremlin, via the electoral commission, controls who can run and can easily manipulate the vote with the help of an opaque electronic voting system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Kremlin says that Putin will win because he enjoys overwhelming public support, with opinion poll ratings of around 80 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former TV journalist and Russian lawmaker calling for peace in Ukraine, Yekaterina Duntsova, submitted her application on Wednesday (Dec 20) to challenge incumbent President Vladimir Putin in the country’s upcoming elections in March 2024.

Former TV journalist and Russian lawmaker calling for peace in Ukraine, Yekaterina Duntsova, submitted her application on Wednesday (Dec 20) to challenge incumbent President Vladimir Putin in the country’s upcoming elections in March 2024. She presented her documents to Russia’s Central Election Commission to register as a candidate days after taking her first steps toward candidate status Sunday. In line with the country’s law, her run had to be endorsed by 500 supporters. ‘Humane’ Russia The 40-year-old Russian lawmaker hopes to challenge Putin by promoting her vision of a “humane” Russia “that’s peaceful, friendly and ready to cooperate with everyone on the principle of respect.” Duntsova, in an interview with Reuters last month, called for an end to the war in Ukraine and the release of political prisoners, including opposition leader Alexei Navalny. She has submitted her documents to formally enter the election which Putin is expected to win, a foregone conclusion by supporters and opponents alike. ALSO READ | Vladimir Putin will run again in Russian presidential elections next March “I feel a sense of accomplishment: We’ve done everything that we needed to do. We’ve made this step, and I think it should inspire people who support us,” said Duntsova, speaking to journalists in Moscow on Wednesday. If accepted as an independent candidate, the former journalist faces the herculean task of collecting 300,000 signatures of support for her candidacy, from at least 40 Russian regions, by January 31. “(I hope that) I’ll at least be registered (as a candidate). But, of course, collecting signatures is a huge job and I hope that people will be actively taking part.” She also corrected a reporter who asked if she thought the authorities would actually allow her to stand. “Why are we talking about permission if this is my right according to the law and I have that possibility and have the necessary qualities to put myself forward?” she responded. “We are just moving according to the formula prescribed by federal law, and for that we don’t need anyone’s permission,” Duntsova added. In her interview with Reuters, Duntsova avoided using the word “war” to describe the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which Putin calls his “special military operation", but did acknowledge that she was afraid. “Any sane person taking this step would be afraid - but fear must not win.” Upcoming Russian presidential elections Russian state parliament set March 17 as the date for the country’s 2024 presidential election earlier this month. ALSO READ | Russian court filings show two Navalny court hearings postponed until January Putin, who has been in power either as president or prime minister since 1999, announced his candidacy earlier this month and has sought another six-year term. If he wins, this will be the 71-year-old incumbent’s 5th term in office. Over his more than two decades in power, Putin has established tight control on Russia’s political system, and with prominent critics in jail or outside the country at risk of arrest, there are no established opposition figures to challenge him. Navalny’s supporters have called the process a sham, saying the Kremlin, via the electoral commission, controls who can run and can easily manipulate the vote with the help of an opaque electronic voting system. Meanwhile, the Kremlin says that Putin will win because he enjoys overwhelming public support, with opinion poll ratings of around 80 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

Anti-war Russian presidential hopeful Yekaterina Duntsova applies to run in election against Putin

<p>The Kremlin on Wednesday (Dec 20) said that currently there was no basis for peace talks with Ukraine over the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and that such negotiations were 'not relevant' currently. Kremlin also dismissed the peace plan Ukraine had proposed saying it was absurd.</p>

<p>"We really consider that the topic of negotiations is not relevant right now," said Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov as he interacted with reporters.</p>

<p>Peskov accused the UK of sinking chances of a peace in 2022 when it pressured Ukraine to refuse to agree to a draft deal which was drawn up shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine.</p>

<p>"After that, there were no prerequisites for negotiations - and there were even fewer prerequisites after Ukraine actually legally prohibited any negotiations with the Russian side," Peskov said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Fatigue builds among Kyiv allies</strong></p>

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<p>Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. In October last year, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree making Ukraine talks with Russia "impossible". The decree was signed after Russian President Vladimir Putin annexed four regions in eastern and southern Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Peskov on Wednesday said that Zelensky's "peace formula" had flaws as it was seeking peace without participation from Russia.</p>

<p>"To say the least, this is an absurd process," Peskov said.</p>

<p>Zelensky has proposed 10-point peace plan which calls for cessation of hostilities, withdrawal of Russian soldiers from Ukraine and restoration of Ukraine's borders with Russia.</p>

<h2><strong>'Foreign' elements are destabilising Russia: Putin</strong></h2>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that foreign agents were helping Ukraine to destabilise Russia. He has called for "severe" response to such attempts.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-china-completely-abandon-us-dollar-in-bilateral-trade-says-russian-pm-671667">Russia, China completely abandon US dollar in bilateral trade, says Russian PM</a></strong></p>

<p>"The Kyiv regime with direct support of foreign special services has taken the path of terrorist methods, practically state terrorism," Putin said in a video address.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"These are acts of sabotage against civilian sites, transport and energy infrastructure, attacks against civilians and representatives of authority," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-says-trump-presidency-could-have-strong-impact-on-war-671508">Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky says Trump presidency could have 'strong impact' on war</a></strong></p>

<p>"The attempts by foreign special agents to destabilise the political and social situation in Russia must be severely stopped," Putin said in his address on security agency workers' day.</p>

<p>"Security services have no easy task. But you have all the necessary potential, all the possibilities in order to ensure the security of the state, of society and our citizens."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Kremlin on Wednesday (Dec 20) said that currently there was no basis for peace talks with Ukraine over the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and that such negotiations were 'not relevant' currently.

The Kremlin on Wednesday (Dec 20) said that currently there was no basis for peace talks with Ukraine over the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and that such negotiations were 'not relevant' currently. Kremlin also dismissed the peace plan Ukraine had proposed saying it was absurd. "We really consider that the topic of negotiations is not relevant right now," said Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov as he interacted with reporters. Peskov accused the UK of sinking chances of a peace in 2022 when it pressured Ukraine to refuse to agree to a draft deal which was drawn up shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine. "After that, there were no prerequisites for negotiations - and there were even fewer prerequisites after Ukraine actually legally prohibited any negotiations with the Russian side," Peskov said. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Fatigue builds among Kyiv allies × Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. In October last year, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree making Ukraine talks with Russia "impossible". The decree was signed after Russian President Vladimir Putin annexed four regions in eastern and southern Ukraine. Peskov on Wednesday said that Zelensky's "peace formula" had flaws as it was seeking peace without participation from Russia. "To say the least, this is an absurd process," Peskov said. Zelensky has proposed 10-point peace plan which calls for cessation of hostilities, withdrawal of Russian soldiers from Ukraine and restoration of Ukraine's borders with Russia. 'Foreign' elements are destabilising Russia: Putin Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that foreign agents were helping Ukraine to destabilise Russia. He has called for "severe" response to such attempts. Also Read | Russia, China completely abandon US dollar in bilateral trade, says Russian PM "The Kyiv regime with direct support of foreign special services has taken the path of terrorist methods, practically state terrorism," Putin said in a video address. "These are acts of sabotage against civilian sites, transport and energy infrastructure, attacks against civilians and representatives of authority," he said. Also Read | Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky says Trump presidency could have 'strong impact' on war "The attempts by foreign special agents to destabilise the political and social situation in Russia must be severely stopped," Putin said in his address on security agency workers' day. "Security services have no easy task. But you have all the necessary potential, all the possibilities in order to ensure the security of the state, of society and our citizens." (With inputs from agencies)

Peace talks with Ukraine ‘not relevant’, says Kremlin on Zelensky’s 10-point proposal

<p>The Kremlin on Tuesday (Dec 12) claimed that it did not know the whereabouts of Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny or anything about his current status.</p>

<p>It also rebuffed concerns by the United States over the Russian opposition leader's disappearance, dubbing it "unacceptable" and asking the United States to mind its own business.</p>

<p>"Here we are talking about one prisoner who, according to the law, was found guilty and is serving his sentence, and here we consider any intervention by anyone, including the United States of America, unacceptable and impossible," The Kremlin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said during a press briefing.</p>

<p>US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller on Monday had said that Washington was very much concerned about Navalny's wellbeing and that the Russian authorities were responsible for his disappearance.</p>

<p>Navalny's lawyers on Monday (Dec 11) said that they had lost all contact with the imprisoned Russian opposition leader and his whereabouts are unknown.</p>

<p>Kira Yarmysh, Navalny's spokesperson, said that staff at the IK-6 facility in Melekhovo had told Navalny's lawyer waiting outside that he was no longer among its inmates.</p>

<p>"Today, as on Friday, the lawyers tried to get to IK-6 and IK-7 — &nbsp;two colonies in the Vladimir region where Alexey Navalny might be. They have just been informed simultaneously in both colonies that he is not there. We still don't know where Alexey is," Yarmysh said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-opposition-leader-alexey-navalny-goes-missing-from-prison-668638">Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny goes missing from prison: Lawyers</a></p>

<p>"Where they have taken him, they refuse to say," she added.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, Yarmysh took to social media platform X and wrote, "Today Alexei was again not brought to court to appear by video link, but now nobody is talking nonsense about an 'electricity accident'. An employee of penal colony-6 stated that Alexei had left their colony, but that he allegedly did not know where he had been transferred to."</p>

<h2><strong>Navalny's disappearance '0% coincidence, 100% direct political control,' says aide Volkov</strong></h2>

<p>Navalny aide Leonid Volkov in a posting on X said that the timing was "0% coincidence and 100% direct manual political control from the Kremlin."</p>

<p>He added: "It is no secret to Putin who his main opponent is in these 'elections'. And he wants to make sure that Navalny’s voice is not heard."</p>

<p>Earlier this month, Navalny was charged by Russian prosecutors under article 214 of the Kremlin's penal code, to which he had responded by saying, “I don’t even know whether to describe my latest news as sad, funny or absurd.”</p>

<p>He said that his charges were part of the Kremlin's desire to initiate a new criminal case against him every three months. Never before has a convict in solitary confinement for more than a year had such a rich social and political life, he added.</p>

<p>Alexei Navalny, 47, who is one of the most ardent opponents of Russian President Vladimir Putin, known for campaigning against official corruption and organizing major anti-Kremlin protests, was arrested in 2021 after he returned to Russia from Germany.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;</em></p>


The Kremlin on Tuesday (Dec 12) claimed that it did not know the whereabouts of Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny or anything about his current status. It also rebuffed concerns by the United States over the Russian opposition leader's disappearance, dubbing it "unacceptable" and asking the United States to mind its own business.

The Kremlin on Tuesday (Dec 12) claimed that it did not know the whereabouts of Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny or anything about his current status. It also rebuffed concerns by the United States over the Russian opposition leader's disappearance, dubbing it "unacceptable" and asking the United States to mind its own business. "Here we are talking about one prisoner who, according to the law, was found guilty and is serving his sentence, and here we consider any intervention by anyone, including the United States of America, unacceptable and impossible," The Kremlin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said during a press briefing. US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller on Monday had said that Washington was very much concerned about Navalny's wellbeing and that the Russian authorities were responsible for his disappearance. Navalny's lawyers on Monday (Dec 11) said that they had lost all contact with the imprisoned Russian opposition leader and his whereabouts are unknown. Kira Yarmysh, Navalny's spokesperson, said that staff at the IK-6 facility in Melekhovo had told Navalny's lawyer waiting outside that he was no longer among its inmates. "Today, as on Friday, the lawyers tried to get to IK-6 and IK-7 — two colonies in the Vladimir region where Alexey Navalny might be. They have just been informed simultaneously in both colonies that he is not there. We still don't know where Alexey is," Yarmysh said. Also read: Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny goes missing from prison: Lawyers "Where they have taken him, they refuse to say," she added. On Tuesday, Yarmysh took to social media platform X and wrote, "Today Alexei was again not brought to court to appear by video link, but now nobody is talking nonsense about an 'electricity accident'. An employee of penal colony-6 stated that Alexei had left their colony, but that he allegedly did not know where he had been transferred to." Navalny's disappearance '0% coincidence, 100% direct political control,' says aide Volkov Navalny aide Leonid Volkov in a posting on X said that the timing was "0% coincidence and 100% direct manual political control from the Kremlin." He added: "It is no secret to Putin who his main opponent is in these 'elections'. And he wants to make sure that Navalny’s voice is not heard." Earlier this month, Navalny was charged by Russian prosecutors under article 214 of the Kremlin's penal code, to which he had responded by saying, “I don’t even know whether to describe my latest news as sad, funny or absurd.” He said that his charges were part of the Kremlin's desire to initiate a new criminal case against him every three months. Never before has a convict in solitary confinement for more than a year had such a rich social and political life, he added. Alexei Navalny, 47, who is one of the most ardent opponents of Russian President Vladimir Putin, known for campaigning against official corruption and organizing major anti-Kremlin protests, was arrested in 2021 after he returned to Russia from Germany. (With inputs from agencies)

Kremlin says unaware of Navalny's whereabouts, rebuffs US concerns over his 'disappearance'

Allies of the jailed Russian Opposition leader Alexei Navalny have said that they are unable to reach him. They said that the Kremlin critic has been removed from the Russian Penal Colony and his current whereabout are unknown.

Russia: Vladimir Putin's jailed opponent Alexei Navalny missing since a week, US concerned | WION

<p>Jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny is facing new charges by Russian prosecutors. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Saturday (Dec 2), Navalny told his associates that he had been charged under article 214 of Russia’s penal code, which covers crimes of vandalism. “I don’t even know whether to describe my latest news as sad, funny or absurd,” Navalny wrote on social media via his team, adding he had no idea what article 214 was.</p>

<p>Navalny said the charges were part of the Kremlin's desire to initiate a new criminal case against him every three months. Never before has a convict in solitary confinement for more than a year had such a rich social and political life, he added.</p>

<p>Alexei Navalny, 47, is one of the most ardent opponents of Russian President Vladimir Putin, known for campaigning against official corruption and organizing major anti-Kremlin protests.</p>

<p>Navalny was arrested in 2021 after he returned to Russia from Germany. Since then, he has been handed three prison terms. The 47-year-old is currently serving over 30 years in prison after being found guilty of charges including extremism and fraud.</p>

<p>In August, the Kremlin critic was given an extra 19 years in prison in addition to a sentence of&nbsp;11.5 years he had been already serving.&nbsp;His political movement has been outlawed and declared "extremist."</p>

<p>Citing unconfirmed Russian media reports, Reuters reported Navalny would be aged 74&nbsp;by the time he got out of prison in 2050.</p>

<p>Several of Navalny's associates have also faced extremism-related charges after his Foundation for Fighting Corruption and a network of regional offices were outlawed as extremist groups in 2021.</p>

<p>Most recently, a court in Siberia jailed Ksenia Fadeyeva, who used to run Navalny's office in Tomsk, before her trial on extremism charges.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She was initially placed under house arrest in October before later being remanded in pre-trial detention. If found guilty, she would face up to 12 years in prison.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny is facing new charges by Russian prosecutors. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Saturday (Dec 2), Navalny told his associates that he had been charged under article 214 of Russia’s penal code, which covers crimes of vandalism.

Jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny is facing new charges by Russian prosecutors. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Saturday (Dec 2), Navalny told his associates that he had been charged under article 214 of Russia’s penal code, which covers crimes of vandalism. “I don’t even know whether to describe my latest news as sad, funny or absurd,” Navalny wrote on social media via his team, adding he had no idea what article 214 was. Navalny said the charges were part of the Kremlin's desire to initiate a new criminal case against him every three months. Never before has a convict in solitary confinement for more than a year had such a rich social and political life, he added. Alexei Navalny, 47, is one of the most ardent opponents of Russian President Vladimir Putin, known for campaigning against official corruption and organizing major anti-Kremlin protests. Navalny was arrested in 2021 after he returned to Russia from Germany. Since then, he has been handed three prison terms. The 47-year-old is currently serving over 30 years in prison after being found guilty of charges including extremism and fraud. In August, the Kremlin critic was given an extra 19 years in prison in addition to a sentence of 11.5 years he had been already serving. His political movement has been outlawed and declared "extremist." Citing unconfirmed Russian media reports, Reuters reported Navalny would be aged 74 by the time he got out of prison in 2050. Several of Navalny's associates have also faced extremism-related charges after his Foundation for Fighting Corruption and a network of regional offices were outlawed as extremist groups in 2021. Most recently, a court in Siberia jailed Ksenia Fadeyeva, who used to run Navalny's office in Tomsk, before her trial on extremism charges. She was initially placed under house arrest in October before later being remanded in pre-trial detention. If found guilty, she would face up to 12 years in prison. (With inputs from agencies)

Jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny faces new charges by Russian prosecutors

<p>In what can be seen as another Russian attempt to control public opinion on its soil, the country's interior ministry has prepared a draw legislation that would in effect, make foreigners sign a "loyalty agreement" which will forbid them from criticising Russia's official policy, discrediting history of the Soviet military or contravening traditional family values.</p>

<p>Russian people have been witness to introduction of series of tough laws since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. These laws forbid people from discrediting the military. War critics and opposition activists have been handed lengthy jail sentences by courts which held that the defendants violated these laws.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia waits for west to coax Ukraine into submission | In-Live Discussion</strong></p>

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<p>Russia is due to hold presidential elections in 2024. Since its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin has sought to portray what he calls the 'special military operation' as part of an existential battle with the West. He has said that he will defend the 'sacred' civilisation from what he calls as the West decadence.</p>

<p>According to a report by state news agency TASS, the legislation has been prepared by the interior ministry and it forces all foreigners to sign an agreement that would restrict what they can say publicly.</p>

<p>TASS said that a foreigner in Russia will be prohibited from "interfering with the activities of public authorities of the Russian Federation, discrediting in any form the foreign and domestic state policy of the Russian Federation, public authorities and their officials"</p>

<p>It has been reported that the proposed agreement would have clauses that deal with family, morality, &nbsp;"propaganda about non-traditional sexual relations" and history.</p>

<p>Foreigners will be barred from "distorting the historical truth about the feat of the Soviet people in the defence of the Fatherland and its contribution to the victory over fascism".</p>

<p>It was not immediately clear if the legislation was aimed at certain nationalities or all foreigners. Also, there was no information about what the punishment would be if a foreigner is held to have violated terms of the agreement.</p>

<p>Reuters reported that Kremlin declined to comment.</p>

<h2><strong>Kremlin wants some&nbsp;degree of censorship</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this month, Kremlin said that some degree of censorship was needed as Russian troops were fighting in Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-us-marine-paul-whelan-imprisoned-in-russia-assaulted-by-fellow-inmate-664136">Ex-US Marine Paul Whelan, imprisoned in Russia, assaulted by fellow inmate</a></strong></p>

<p>For the draft legislation to become a law, it will have to be submitted in State Duma, which is the lower house of the Russian parliament. The legislation would have to go through committee review and a number of readings before being submitted to President Putin for his assent.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finland-youngest-nato-ally-seals-all-it-border-crossings-with-russia-664200">Finland, a NATO member, seals all its border crossings with Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>Leonid Kalashnikov, Chairman of the Duma's CIS Affairs Committee has said that was being worked upon by the interior ministry, the government, the presidential administration and also by his committee.</p>

<p>"The draft law on the so-called 'loyalty agreement' with migrants entering the Russian Federation is in a high degree of readiness," Leonid Kalashnikov told Interfax.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In what can be seen as another Russian attempt to control public opinion on its soil, the country's interior ministry has prepared a draw legislation that would in effect, make foreigners sign a "loyalty agreement" which will forbid them from criticising Russia's official policy, discrediting history of the Soviet military or contravening traditional family values.

In what can be seen as another Russian attempt to control public opinion on its soil, the country's interior ministry has prepared a draw legislation that would in effect, make foreigners sign a "loyalty agreement" which will forbid them from criticising Russia's official policy, discrediting history of the Soviet military or contravening traditional family values. Russian people have been witness to introduction of series of tough laws since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. These laws forbid people from discrediting the military. War critics and opposition activists have been handed lengthy jail sentences by courts which held that the defendants violated these laws. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia waits for west to coax Ukraine into submission | In-Live Discussion × Russia is due to hold presidential elections in 2024. Since its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin has sought to portray what he calls the 'special military operation' as part of an existential battle with the West. He has said that he will defend the 'sacred' civilisation from what he calls as the West decadence. According to a report by state news agency TASS, the legislation has been prepared by the interior ministry and it forces all foreigners to sign an agreement that would restrict what they can say publicly. TASS said that a foreigner in Russia will be prohibited from "interfering with the activities of public authorities of the Russian Federation, discrediting in any form the foreign and domestic state policy of the Russian Federation, public authorities and their officials" It has been reported that the proposed agreement would have clauses that deal with family, morality, "propaganda about non-traditional sexual relations" and history. Foreigners will be barred from "distorting the historical truth about the feat of the Soviet people in the defence of the Fatherland and its contribution to the victory over fascism". It was not immediately clear if the legislation was aimed at certain nationalities or all foreigners. Also, there was no information about what the punishment would be if a foreigner is held to have violated terms of the agreement. Reuters reported that Kremlin declined to comment. Kremlin wants some degree of censorship Earlier this month, Kremlin said that some degree of censorship was needed as Russian troops were fighting in Ukraine. Also Read | Ex-US Marine Paul Whelan, imprisoned in Russia, assaulted by fellow inmate For the draft legislation to become a law, it will have to be submitted in State Duma, which is the lower house of the Russian parliament. The legislation would have to go through committee review and a number of readings before being submitted to President Putin for his assent. Also Read | Finland, a NATO member, seals all its border crossings with Russia Leonid Kalashnikov, Chairman of the Duma's CIS Affairs Committee has said that was being worked upon by the interior ministry, the government, the presidential administration and also by his committee. "The draft law on the so-called 'loyalty agreement' with migrants entering the Russian Federation is in a high degree of readiness," Leonid Kalashnikov told Interfax. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia takes steps to make foreigners sign a 'loyalty agreement'

In a show of power that coincides with Moscow's de-ratification of a historic nuclear test moratorium pact, Russia has successfully demonstrated its capacity to launch a large retaliatory nuclear strike by land, sea, and air, according to a Kremlin statement on Wednesday.

Russia's retaliatory nuclear strike drills, preparing to withdraw from nuclear test ban treaty

<p>The Kremlin on Tuesday (Oct 24) rejected <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-found-lying-on-floor-after-allegedly-suffering-cardiac-arrest-reports-suggest-650538">speculation about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health </a></strong>and said he is fit and well. Speaking to reporters, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov also denied claims that President Putin was using body doubles.</p>

<p>"I can tell you that he has no doubles, and with regards to work and so on, this is already an absurd informational hoax that is discussed by some media with vigorous tenacity. It makes nothing but smile," Peskov said.</p>

<p>Earlier, General SRV, a channel on Telegram claimed that Putin suffered a serious health episode last Sunday (Oct 22). General SRV said that the Russian president was lying on the floor and rolling his eyes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There have been speculations about Putin's health in the past as well ranging from blood cancer to Parkinson's disease.</p>

<p>In August, <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/telegram-post-ignites-concerns-about-russian-president-vladimir-putins-health-ukraine-reacts-631170">another Telegram channel </a></strong>that goes by the name of "Z-blogger" shared a post which read, "God, don't you leave us. Pray to God you are alive and healthy." Anton Gerashchenko, the adviser to Ukraine's minister of internal affairs, shared the Telegram post on X and said, "What is going on?"</p>

<p>In February, <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-vladimir-putin-sick-new-clip-of-his-feet-twitching-goes-viral-sparks-health-concerns-564297">a video went viral on social media </a></strong>showing Putin being unable to control his twitching feet during a conversation with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko.</p>

<p>The video showed Putin's legs fidgeting and his feet tapping when he and Lukashenko discussed expanding military and economic ties.</p>

<p>Putin turned 71 on October 7 and maintains an intensive schedule of meetings and public appearances, many of them televised. His recent programme included a visit to China last week, with stop-offs in two Russian cities on the way back.</p>

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The Kremlin on Tuesday (Oct 24) rejected speculation about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health and said he is fit and well. Speaking to reporters, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov also denied claims that President Putin was using body doubles.

The Kremlin on Tuesday (Oct 24) rejected speculation about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health and said he is fit and well. Speaking to reporters, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov also denied claims that President Putin was using body doubles. "I can tell you that he has no doubles, and with regards to work and so on, this is already an absurd informational hoax that is discussed by some media with vigorous tenacity. It makes nothing but smile," Peskov said. Earlier, General SRV, a channel on Telegram claimed that Putin suffered a serious health episode last Sunday (Oct 22). General SRV said that the Russian president was lying on the floor and rolling his eyes. There have been speculations about Putin's health in the past as well ranging from blood cancer to Parkinson's disease. In August, another Telegram channel that goes by the name of "Z-blogger" shared a post which read, "God, don't you leave us. Pray to God you are alive and healthy." Anton Gerashchenko, the adviser to Ukraine's minister of internal affairs, shared the Telegram post on X and said, "What is going on?" In February, a video went viral on social media showing Putin being unable to control his twitching feet during a conversation with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko. The video showed Putin's legs fidgeting and his feet tapping when he and Lukashenko discussed expanding military and economic ties. Putin turned 71 on October 7 and maintains an intensive schedule of meetings and public appearances, many of them televised. His recent programme included a visit to China last week, with stop-offs in two Russian cities on the way back. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

He's fit and well: Kremlin rejects rumours about Putin's ill-health

<p>The Kremlin has made clear that Russia has not abandoned a moratorium on nuclear testing. It also dismissed a suggestion by the editor of a state-backed channel that Russia should stage a thermonuclear explosion in Siberia to send a strong message to the West.</p>

<p>Reacting to the remarks by Margarita Simonyan, the editor-in-chief of state-funded broadcaster RT, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia has not left the regime of abandoning nuclear tests.</p>

<p>"I don't think such discussions are possible now from an official point of view," Peskov said, adding that Simonyan's words did not "always" reflect Moscow's official position.</p>

<h2><strong>Remarks by the chief editor of RT</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, Simonyan said that the crisis in Ukraine was fast moving towards a nuclear Armageddon and West’s provocation won’t stop until Russia sent a clear message.</p>

<p>"A nuclear ultimatum is becoming more and more imminent and more and more impossible to avoid," Simonyan said. "They will not backpedal unless it is painful for them," she added.</p>

<p>Russia boasts the world’s largest nuclear stockpile, and its leader Vladimir Putin has repeatedly cautioned the West that any attack on Russia could trigger a nuclear retaliation.</p>

<h2><strong>When did the nuclear race begin?</strong></h2>

<p>In July 1945, the United States initiated the nuclear race with a 20-kiloton atomic bomb test in Alamogordo, New Mexico.</p>

<p>In August of the same year, atomic bombs were dropped on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, marking the conclusion of World War Two.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia 'punishment battalions': Who are Storm-Z troopers? | World News</strong></p>

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<p>Just four years later, in August 1949, the Soviet Union stunned the Western world by detonating its first nuclear bomb.</p>

<p>During the five decades spanning from 1945 to the signing of the 1996 Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty, more than 2,000 nuclear tests were carried out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Of these, 1,032 were conducted by the United States, and 715 were carried out by the Soviet Union, as reported by the United Nations.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-storm-z-squads-tale-of-hundreds-of-offenders-sent-to-frontlines-to-fight-ukraine-642148"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russia`s `Storm-Z` squads: Tale of hundreds of offenders sent to frontlines to fight Ukraine</strong></a></p>

<p>In February, Putin suspended Russia's participation in the New START treaty, which was the last significant arms control agreement between Russia and the United States. He also warned that if the United States resumed nuclear testing, Russia would follow suit.</p>

<p>Recent reports from The New York Times, although unconfirmed, claim that satellite imagery and aviation data indicate Russia may be preparing to test an experimental nuclear-powered cruise missile or may have already conducted such a test.</p>

<p>Russia obviously denies such claims.</p>

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The Kremlin has made clear that Russia has not abandoned a moratorium on nuclear testing. It also dismissed a suggestion by the editor of a state-backed channel that Russia should stage a thermonuclear explosion in Siberia to send a strong message to the West.

The Kremlin has made clear that Russia has not abandoned a moratorium on nuclear testing. It also dismissed a suggestion by the editor of a state-backed channel that Russia should stage a thermonuclear explosion in Siberia to send a strong message to the West. Reacting to the remarks by Margarita Simonyan, the editor-in-chief of state-funded broadcaster RT, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia has not left the regime of abandoning nuclear tests. "I don't think such discussions are possible now from an official point of view," Peskov said, adding that Simonyan's words did not "always" reflect Moscow's official position. Remarks by the chief editor of RT Earlier, Simonyan said that the crisis in Ukraine was fast moving towards a nuclear Armageddon and West’s provocation won’t stop until Russia sent a clear message. "A nuclear ultimatum is becoming more and more imminent and more and more impossible to avoid," Simonyan said. "They will not backpedal unless it is painful for them," she added. Russia boasts the world’s largest nuclear stockpile, and its leader Vladimir Putin has repeatedly cautioned the West that any attack on Russia could trigger a nuclear retaliation. When did the nuclear race begin? In July 1945, the United States initiated the nuclear race with a 20-kiloton atomic bomb test in Alamogordo, New Mexico. In August of the same year, atomic bombs were dropped on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, marking the conclusion of World War Two. Watch: Russia 'punishment battalions': Who are Storm-Z troopers? | World News × Just four years later, in August 1949, the Soviet Union stunned the Western world by detonating its first nuclear bomb. During the five decades spanning from 1945 to the signing of the 1996 Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty, more than 2,000 nuclear tests were carried out. Of these, 1,032 were conducted by the United States, and 715 were carried out by the Soviet Union, as reported by the United Nations. Also read: Russia`s `Storm-Z` squads: Tale of hundreds of offenders sent to frontlines to fight Ukraine In February, Putin suspended Russia's participation in the New START treaty, which was the last significant arms control agreement between Russia and the United States. He also warned that if the United States resumed nuclear testing, Russia would follow suit. Recent reports from The New York Times, although unconfirmed, claim that satellite imagery and aviation data indicate Russia may be preparing to test an experimental nuclear-powered cruise missile or may have already conducted such a test. Russia obviously denies such claims. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Kremlin clarifies Russia still adheres to nuclear moratorium, dismissing remarks by RT chief

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<p>Russia on Monday (September 25) said it was closely monitoring the "potentially dangerous" situation that developed in Kosovo over the weekend where ethnic Serb gunmen engaged in a violent gunfight with the local authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The situation is extremely difficult. On Kosovo, we see a traditionally biased attitude towards the Serbs...The situation is very, very tense and potentially dangerous, we are monitoring it very closely," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was quoted as saying by news agency&nbsp;Reuters.</p>

<p>Moscow does not recognise Kosovo (a former province of Serbia)&nbsp;as an independent country which has a majority ethnic Albanian population. Traditionally, Russia sides with and supports Serbia, with which it has close religious and cultural ties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Over two decades after a Kosovo Albanian guerrilla uprising against repressive Serbian rule, some 50,000 Serbs in the northern region of Kosovo refuse to accept the 2008 declaration of independence and continue to regard Belgrade as their capital - often leading to such escalations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-officer-killed-in-attack-in-north-kosovo-fighting-ongoing-says-pm-639188" target="_blank"><strong>Watch | Standoff between gunmen and Kosovo authorities at monastery ends</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>What happened in Kosovo?</strong></h2>

<p>On Sunday (September 24), Serbian gunmen in armoured vehicles stormed a village in north Kosovo, battling police before barricading themselves in a monastery.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Serbian Orthodox monastery is near the village of Banjska in the Serb-majority region, where monks and pilgrims hid inside a temple as a&nbsp;shootout followed.</p>

<p>It was late in the evening that the Kosovar police managed to pin the gunmen and retake the monastery.</p>

<p>The police said&nbsp;an officer and three gunmen had lost their lives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We put this territory under control. It was done after several consecutive battles," Xhelal Svecla, the Minister of Internal Affairs, told reporters.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-officer-killed-in-attack-in-north-kosovo-fighting-ongoing-says-pm-639188"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Standoff between gunmen and Kosovo authorities at monastery ends</strong></a></p>

<p>Prime Minister Albin Kurti called the ambush an act of terrorism and condemned the Serbian government for it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Organised crime with political, financial and logistical support from officials in Belgrade is attacking our country," he wrote on social media.</p>

<p>Later, Serbian state media outlet RTS reported that Jarinje and Brnjak border crossings between Serbia and Kosovo were shut down.</p>

<p>The situation between the two countries remains frosty. According to <em>The Guardian</em>, talks between Kosovo and Serbia, which were brokered by the European Union, have reached a dead end.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kurti, in a conversation with the outlet, defined the latest unsuccessful meeting between him and the Serbian president Aleksandar Vučić, which took place on September 14, as a fiasco and said that the EU special envoy, Miroslav Lajčák, had “lost neutrality”.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russia on Monday (September 25) said it was closely monitoring the "potentially dangerous" situation that developed in Kosovo over the weekend where ethnic Serb gunmen engaged in a violent gunfight with the local authorities.

Russia on Monday (September 25) said it was closely monitoring the "potentially dangerous" situation that developed in Kosovo over the weekend where ethnic Serb gunmen engaged in a violent gunfight with the local authorities. "The situation is extremely difficult. On Kosovo, we see a traditionally biased attitude towards the Serbs...The situation is very, very tense and potentially dangerous, we are monitoring it very closely," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was quoted as saying by news agency Reuters. Moscow does not recognise Kosovo (a former province of Serbia) as an independent country which has a majority ethnic Albanian population. Traditionally, Russia sides with and supports Serbia, with which it has close religious and cultural ties. Over two decades after a Kosovo Albanian guerrilla uprising against repressive Serbian rule, some 50,000 Serbs in the northern region of Kosovo refuse to accept the 2008 declaration of independence and continue to regard Belgrade as their capital - often leading to such escalations. Watch | Standoff between gunmen and Kosovo authorities at monastery ends × What happened in Kosovo? On Sunday (September 24), Serbian gunmen in armoured vehicles stormed a village in north Kosovo, battling police before barricading themselves in a monastery. The Serbian Orthodox monastery is near the village of Banjska in the Serb-majority region, where monks and pilgrims hid inside a temple as a shootout followed. It was late in the evening that the Kosovar police managed to pin the gunmen and retake the monastery. The police said an officer and three gunmen had lost their lives. "We put this territory under control. It was done after several consecutive battles," Xhelal Svecla, the Minister of Internal Affairs, told reporters. Also read | Standoff between gunmen and Kosovo authorities at monastery ends Prime Minister Albin Kurti called the ambush an act of terrorism and condemned the Serbian government for it. "Organised crime with political, financial and logistical support from officials in Belgrade is attacking our country," he wrote on social media. Later, Serbian state media outlet RTS reported that Jarinje and Brnjak border crossings between Serbia and Kosovo were shut down. The situation between the two countries remains frosty. According to The Guardian, talks between Kosovo and Serbia, which were brokered by the European Union, have reached a dead end. Kurti, in a conversation with the outlet, defined the latest unsuccessful meeting between him and the Serbian president Aleksandar Vučić, which took place on September 14, as a fiasco and said that the EU special envoy, Miroslav Lajčák, had “lost neutrality”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Moscow 'closely monitoring' situation in Kosovo after gunmen-police standoff

<p>The Kremlin said on Monday (September 18) that it did not have information on health condition of Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. It was asked about social media reports which said that the 46-year-old was unwell. There was speculation that he is in coma, or possibly dead.</p>

<p>Kadyrov is one of eager supporters of Russia's offensive in Ukraine. The Chechen leader's battalions have fought alongside regular Russian forces in Ukraine.</p>

<p>The former rebel warlord-turned-Kremlin ally has long referred to himself as Vladimir Putin's "footsoldier."</p>

<p>Reuters news agency said in a report that repeated phone calls to Kadyrov's spokespeople went unanswered.</p>

<p>"We have no information on this," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.</p>

<p>"In any case, the presidential administration can hardly give out health certificates, so we have nothing to tell you here."</p>

<p>Kremlin's comment came a day after a purportedly new video footage of the leader was released. The clip&nbsp;released on Sunday (September 18) shows Kadyrov smiling and recommending that everyone should practise sport. The video was taken as an attempt to quash speculation about his ill health.</p>

<p>Speculation about the hugely influential 46-year-old leader's health has been rife for months.</p>

<p>The head of Chchenya is accused by rights groups of running a "totalitarian regime".</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia Ukraine War: China sends Wang Yi on 4-day Russia visit for security talks</strong></p>

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<p>Two videos appeared on Kadyrov's Telegram channel on Sunday.</p>

<p>In the first video, he was seen strolling in an unidentified location. He was smiling but his face appeared puffy.</p>

<p>He is heard speaking Chechen in the second video and then saying "practice sport" in Russian.</p>

<p>"I strongly recommend that everyone who cannot distinguish the truth from lies on the internet go for a walk, get some fresh air and put their thoughts in order," said the words accompanying the videos.</p>

<p>"The rain can be wonderfully invigorating."</p>

<p>It was not immediately clear when the videos were recorded. The videos appeared on the Telegram channel after social media reports said that Kadyrov was in a coma.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-two-killed-in-russian-airstrikes-in-ukraine-637189">At least two killed in Russian airstrikes in Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>Kadyrov was elected president of Chechenya in 2007. He has ruled majority-Muslim Chechnya with widespread evidence of extra-judicial killings and torture of his opponents.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Kremlin said on Monday (September 18) that it did not have information on health condition of Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. It was asked about social media reports which said that the 46-year-old was unwell.

The Kremlin said on Monday (September 18) that it did not have information on health condition of Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. It was asked about social media reports which said that the 46-year-old was unwell. There was speculation that he is in coma, or possibly dead. Kadyrov is one of eager supporters of Russia's offensive in Ukraine. The Chechen leader's battalions have fought alongside regular Russian forces in Ukraine. The former rebel warlord-turned-Kremlin ally has long referred to himself as Vladimir Putin's "footsoldier." Reuters news agency said in a report that repeated phone calls to Kadyrov's spokespeople went unanswered. "We have no information on this," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. "In any case, the presidential administration can hardly give out health certificates, so we have nothing to tell you here." Kremlin's comment came a day after a purportedly new video footage of the leader was released. The clip released on Sunday (September 18) shows Kadyrov smiling and recommending that everyone should practise sport. The video was taken as an attempt to quash speculation about his ill health. Speculation about the hugely influential 46-year-old leader's health has been rife for months. The head of Chchenya is accused by rights groups of running a "totalitarian regime". Watch | Russia Ukraine War: China sends Wang Yi on 4-day Russia visit for security talks × Two videos appeared on Kadyrov's Telegram channel on Sunday. In the first video, he was seen strolling in an unidentified location. He was smiling but his face appeared puffy. He is heard speaking Chechen in the second video and then saying "practice sport" in Russian. "I strongly recommend that everyone who cannot distinguish the truth from lies on the internet go for a walk, get some fresh air and put their thoughts in order," said the words accompanying the videos. "The rain can be wonderfully invigorating." It was not immediately clear when the videos were recorded. The videos appeared on the Telegram channel after social media reports said that Kadyrov was in a coma. Also Read | At least two killed in Russian airstrikes in Ukraine Kadyrov was elected president of Chechenya in 2007. He has ruled majority-Muslim Chechnya with widespread evidence of extra-judicial killings and torture of his opponents. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ramzan Kadyrov: Kremlin has 'no info' on Chechen leader's health amid talk he's dead or sick

<p>The South Korean defence ministry has indicated that North Korea's leader, Kim Jong Un, entered Russia on Tuesday (September 12)&nbsp;aboard his heavily fortified private train. This visit&nbsp;precedes his anticipated meeting with President Vladimir Putin.</p>

<p>In a statement, the Ministry of National Defence stated, "North Korea's Kim Jong Un is believed to have arrived in Russia early this morning via a private train."</p>

<p>As per&nbsp;Russian state news agency Ria Novosti, the train crossed the border into the Primorsky region from North Korea. Visual evidence shows&nbsp;a train composed of dark green carriages being towed along a railway track by a locomotive from Russian Railways.</p>

<p>A meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un will take place in Russia’s Far East, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists, as reported by Russian news agency TASS.</p>

<p>"We are not telling yet [where talks will take place] in the Far East," he said, adding that the talks will be held between the two delegations as well as in a one-on-one format, followed by an official dinner.</p>

<h2><strong>A grand send-off</strong></h2>

<p>North Korean state media published images showing Kim Jong Un passing by honour guards and throngs of citizens carrying the national flag and bouquets. They also featured photographs of him bidding farewell from his green-and-yellow armoured train as it departed from the station, reported the Associated Press.</p>

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<p><em><strong>North Korean leader&nbsp;Kim&nbsp;Jong&nbsp;Un&nbsp;departs Pyongyang, North Korea, to visit Russia, September 10, 2023, in this image released by North Korea's Korean Central News Agency. Photo credits: Reuters</strong></em></p>

<p>Kim's entourage presumably consists of key figures such as his foreign minister, Choe Sun Hui, and high-ranking military officials, including Korean People's Army Marshals Ri Pyong Chol and Pak Jong Chon.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Exclusive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Exclusive</a> 🇰🇵🇷🇺<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NorthKorea?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NorthKorea</a> leader Kim Jong Un’s train runs from Pyongyang to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a>. <a href="https://t.co/I1ncREEZqe">pic.twitter.com/I1ncREEZqe</a></p>
— Shen Shiwei 沈诗伟 (@shen_shiwei) <a href="https://twitter.com/shen_shiwei/status/1701362825183309929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-travels-in-armoured-train-mystery-yacht-635044">Explained | How North Korea's Kim Jong Un travels in armoured train, mystery yacht</a></p>

<p>A group of senior officials gathered at the station to give the North Korean leader a warm farewell, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;North Korea's Kim Jong Un to visit Russia for talks with Putin</strong></p>

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<p>The Kremlin's official statement on Monday (September 11) briefly mentioned that the visit was at President Putin's invitation and was scheduled to occur "in the coming days." The Korean Central News Agency confirmed that the leaders would hold a meeting but did not specify the exact date and location.</p>

<p>Kim's current trip marks his first foreign journey since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, during which North Korea imposed stringent border restrictions for over three years to safeguard its underdeveloped healthcare infrastructure.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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The South Korean defence ministry has indicated that North Korea's leader, Kim Jong Un, entered Russia on Tuesday (September 12) aboard his heavily fortified private train.

The South Korean defence ministry has indicated that North Korea's leader, Kim Jong Un, entered Russia on Tuesday (September 12) aboard his heavily fortified private train. This visit precedes his anticipated meeting with President Vladimir Putin. In a statement, the Ministry of National Defence stated, "North Korea's Kim Jong Un is believed to have arrived in Russia early this morning via a private train." As per Russian state news agency Ria Novosti, the train crossed the border into the Primorsky region from North Korea. Visual evidence shows a train composed of dark green carriages being towed along a railway track by a locomotive from Russian Railways. A meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un will take place in Russia’s Far East, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists, as reported by Russian news agency TASS. "We are not telling yet [where talks will take place] in the Far East," he said, adding that the talks will be held between the two delegations as well as in a one-on-one format, followed by an official dinner. A grand send-off North Korean state media published images showing Kim Jong Un passing by honour guards and throngs of citizens carrying the national flag and bouquets. They also featured photographs of him bidding farewell from his green-and-yellow armoured train as it departed from the station, reported the Associated Press. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un departs Pyongyang, North Korea, to visit Russia, September 10, 2023, in this image released by North Korea's Korean Central News Agency. Photo credits: Reuters Kim's entourage presumably consists of key figures such as his foreign minister, Choe Sun Hui, and high-ranking military officials, including Korean People's Army Marshals Ri Pyong Chol and Pak Jong Chon. #Exclusive 🇰🇵🇷🇺#NorthKorea leader Kim Jong Un’s train runs from Pyongyang to #Russia. pic.twitter.com/I1ncREEZqe — Shen Shiwei 沈诗伟 (@shen_shiwei) September 11, 2023 × Also read | Explained | How North Korea's Kim Jong Un travels in armoured train, mystery yacht A group of senior officials gathered at the station to give the North Korean leader a warm farewell, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency. Also watch | North Korea's Kim Jong Un to visit Russia for talks with Putin The Kremlin's official statement on Monday (September 11) briefly mentioned that the visit was at President Putin's invitation and was scheduled to occur "in the coming days." The Korean Central News Agency confirmed that the leaders would hold a meeting but did not specify the exact date and location. Kim's current trip marks his first foreign journey since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, during which North Korea imposed stringent border restrictions for over three years to safeguard its underdeveloped healthcare infrastructure. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

N. Korea's Kim Jong Un arrives in Russia ahead of confirmed one-on-one with Putin

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is expected to meet Vladimir Putin. Kim Jong-un's rare foreign trip to Russia will likely take place later this month. The United States says that Kim Jong-un will discuss providing arms to Moscow for its ongoing war in Ukraine.

Kremlin: Nothing to say on report about Putin-Kim Jong-Un meet

<p>The Kremlin on Tuesday (September 5) said that it has "nothing to say" about North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's reported plans to travel to Russia this month and meet President Vladimir Putin to discuss the supply of weapons for the Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On being asked about a New York Times report of the summit, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "No, we cannot (confirm this). We have nothing to say on this."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report mentioned that Kim would travel from Pyongyang to Vladivostok on the Pacific Coast of Russia to meet Putin on a rare trip abroad.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-thwarts-ukrainian-sabotage-groups-attempt-to-cross-border-632406">Russia thwarts Ukrainian sabotage group's attempt to cross border</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The newspaper reported that the&nbsp;two leaders would talk about Kim providing Russia artillery shells and anti-tank missiles in return for Moscow's cutting-edge technology for satellites and nuclear-powered submarines while in Vladivostok, a port city close to North Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Washington has accused Pyongyang of providing Moscow with weaponry for its offensive in Ukraine, which Russia denies. Russia is one of the few nations that have favourable relations with North Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moscow has even attempted to forge closer ties with Pyongyang in recent months as its offensive against Ukraine continues.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-ramps-up-efforts-against-potential-impeachment-inquiry-against-biden-632445">White House ramps up efforts against potential impeachment inquiry against Biden</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Sergei Shoigu, the Russian defence minister, who visited North Korea in July, stated on Monday that Moscow was considering conducting joint military exercises with that country.</p>

<p>"Why not? They are our neighbours," Shoigu was quoted as saying by the TASS news agency when asked about the possible exercises.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shoigu became Kim's first known foreign guest since the COVID-19 pandemic when he visited Pyongyang on July 27. He was shown Pyongyang's nuclear missiles on a personal tour by the North Korean leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia shares a short border with North Korea on its Pacific coast. If Kim does visit, he is expected to cross the border by armoured train, as he did in 2019 when he met Putin in the far-eastern Russian city of Vladivostok.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Kremlin on Tuesday (September 5) said that it has "nothing to say" about North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's reported plans to travel to Russia this month and meet President Vladimir Putin to discuss the supply of weapons for the Ukraine war.

The Kremlin on Tuesday (September 5) said that it has "nothing to say" about North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's reported plans to travel to Russia this month and meet President Vladimir Putin to discuss the supply of weapons for the Ukraine war. On being asked about a New York Times report of the summit, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "No, we cannot (confirm this). We have nothing to say on this." The report mentioned that Kim would travel from Pyongyang to Vladivostok on the Pacific Coast of Russia to meet Putin on a rare trip abroad. Also read: Russia thwarts Ukrainian sabotage group's attempt to cross border The newspaper reported that the two leaders would talk about Kim providing Russia artillery shells and anti-tank missiles in return for Moscow's cutting-edge technology for satellites and nuclear-powered submarines while in Vladivostok, a port city close to North Korea. Washington has accused Pyongyang of providing Moscow with weaponry for its offensive in Ukraine, which Russia denies. Russia is one of the few nations that have favourable relations with North Korea. Moscow has even attempted to forge closer ties with Pyongyang in recent months as its offensive against Ukraine continues. Also read: White House ramps up efforts against potential impeachment inquiry against Biden Watch this report: × Sergei Shoigu, the Russian defence minister, who visited North Korea in July, stated on Monday that Moscow was considering conducting joint military exercises with that country. "Why not? They are our neighbours," Shoigu was quoted as saying by the TASS news agency when asked about the possible exercises. Shoigu became Kim's first known foreign guest since the COVID-19 pandemic when he visited Pyongyang on July 27. He was shown Pyongyang's nuclear missiles on a personal tour by the North Korean leader. Russia shares a short border with North Korea on its Pacific coast. If Kim does visit, he is expected to cross the border by armoured train, as he did in 2019 when he met Putin in the far-eastern Russian city of Vladivostok. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kremlin has 'nothing to say' on reports of Putin-Kim Jong Un summit

The Kremlin announced on Wednesday that authorities were looking into all scenarios, including deliberate murder, surrounding the death of Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of Wagner, in a plane crash last week.

Prigozhin Jet Crash: All scenarios of death being probed, including premeditated murder

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit China for the Belt and Road Forum in October. The visit would be Putin's first since his arrest warrant was issued against the Russian President for alleged war crimes which the Kremlin has vehemently denied.

Putin to skip G20 in India, visit China for Belt and Road forum

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<p>The Kremlin said on Wednesday (August 30) that investigators were considering the possibility that the aircraft carrying <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-russia-will-not-probe-prigozhin-plane-crash-under-international-rules-630385">Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin </a></strong>was downed on purpose. Speaking to reporters, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, "It is obvious that different versions are being considered, including the version - you know what we are talking about – let's say, a deliberate atrocity."</p>

<p>"Let's wait for the results of our Russian investigation," Peskov said. On being asked if the International Civil Aviation Organisation would probe the crash, the Kremlin spokesperson said the circumstances made it different, though he cautioned that investigators had made no formal conclusions yet about what exactly took place.</p>

<p>On August 23, the aircraft on which Prigozhin was travelling to St. Petersburg from Moscow crashed north of Moscow killing all 10 people on board including the Wagner chief, the mercenary group's top commanders, his bodyguards and crew of three. The cause of the crash is unclear, but villagers near the crash site told Reuters they heard a bang and then saw the jet plummet to the ground.</p>

<h2>Prigozhin supporters mourn his death: A fearless warrior</h2>

<p>On Wednesday, followers of Prigozhin laid flowers, messages and poetry at the Porokhovskoye cemetery in his home town of St. Petersburg, hailing him as a fearless warrior.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's a huge loss for Russia. But I think we will realise the extent of loss late, as it usually happens. I think we all will feel it later. I think that nobody’s better now that he is here," former Russian Duma member Sergei Abeltsev said.</p>

<p>"It's difficult to talk, difficult to compose myself. The country is losing its patriots. This man could have done a lot for our great country," a Wagner supporter, who chose to remain anonymous, told the news agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A photograph of Prigozhin and the text of Joseph Brodsky's "Nature Morte" lay on the freshly dug ground of his grave. "You are nailed to the cross. How will I go home?" an excerpt from the poem read.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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The Kremlin said on Wednesday (August 30) that investigators were considering the possibility that the aircraft carrying Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin was downed on purpose.

The Kremlin said on Wednesday (August 30) that investigators were considering the possibility that the aircraft carrying Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin was downed on purpose. Speaking to reporters, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, "It is obvious that different versions are being considered, including the version - you know what we are talking about – let's say, a deliberate atrocity." "Let's wait for the results of our Russian investigation," Peskov said. On being asked if the International Civil Aviation Organisation would probe the crash, the Kremlin spokesperson said the circumstances made it different, though he cautioned that investigators had made no formal conclusions yet about what exactly took place. On August 23, the aircraft on which Prigozhin was travelling to St. Petersburg from Moscow crashed north of Moscow killing all 10 people on board including the Wagner chief, the mercenary group's top commanders, his bodyguards and crew of three. The cause of the crash is unclear, but villagers near the crash site told Reuters they heard a bang and then saw the jet plummet to the ground. Prigozhin supporters mourn his death: A fearless warrior On Wednesday, followers of Prigozhin laid flowers, messages and poetry at the Porokhovskoye cemetery in his home town of St. Petersburg, hailing him as a fearless warrior. "It's a huge loss for Russia. But I think we will realise the extent of loss late, as it usually happens. I think we all will feel it later. I think that nobody’s better now that he is here," former Russian Duma member Sergei Abeltsev said. "It's difficult to talk, difficult to compose myself. The country is losing its patriots. This man could have done a lot for our great country," a Wagner supporter, who chose to remain anonymous, told the news agency. A photograph of Prigozhin and the text of Joseph Brodsky's "Nature Morte" lay on the freshly dug ground of his grave. "You are nailed to the cross. How will I go home?" an excerpt from the poem read. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Aircraft carrying Yevgeny Prigozhin may have been downed on purpose: Kremlin

Anyone who crosses Putin either dies or disappears, or is jailed. The Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin has died in a plane crash. This comes 2 months after Wagner led an unsuccessful mutiny against Putin's aide. Why did Putin wait so long to strike?

Wagner Chief killed on Kremlin orders?

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<p>A second aircraft linked to Wager chief Yevgeny Prigozhin in media reports has no connection to the Russian mercenary group and has never had one, a report by the news agency Reuters said on Friday (August 25). A private jet carrying Prigozhin and other senior figures of Wagner crashed on Wednesday evening with no survivors. Some Russian media outlets reported that a second aircraft with the tail number RA-02748 was linked to Wagner and it was in the air at the time of the crash.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to Reuters, Sergey Trifonov, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Jetica LLC, said its aircraft had no link with Wagner. "Neither the plane itself nor its passengers are related to Wagner and never have been," Trifonov said. This plane had not been rented out, Trifonov said, though he declined to say who was its owner.</p>

<p>Citing flight tracking data, Reuters reported that RA-02748 was landing in St. Petersburg on Wednesday evening on a flight from Moscow when the aircraft believed to be carrying Prigozhin crashed. It then took off back to Moscow about 20 minutes later.</p>

<h2><strong>Absolute lie:&nbsp;Kremlin dismisses accusations of killing Prigozhin</strong></h2>

<p>The Kremlin on Friday dismissed West's accusation that Prigozhin had been killed on its orders. Kremlin said that this accusation was an "absolute lie." "There is now a great deal of speculation surrounding this plane crash and the tragic deaths of the plane's passengers, including Yevgeny Prigozhin. Of course, in the West, all this speculation is presented from a well-known angle. All of this is an absolute lie, and it is necessary to rely exclusively on facts when covering this issue," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said.</p>

<p>"Yesterday, speaking on this topic, the president said he was waiting for the results of the investigation that would be finished in the near future and we would find out the details," Peskov added.</p>

<p>Russian investigators have opened a probe into what happened, but have not yet said what they suspect caused the plane to suddenly fall from the sky, nor they have confirmed the identities of the 10 bodies recovered from the wreckage.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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A second aircraft linked to Wager chief Yevgeny Prigozhin in media reports has no connection to the Russian mercenary group and has never had one, a report by the news agency Reuters said on Friday (August 25).

A second aircraft linked to Wager chief Yevgeny Prigozhin in media reports has no connection to the Russian mercenary group and has never had one, a report by the news agency Reuters said on Friday (August 25). A private jet carrying Prigozhin and other senior figures of Wagner crashed on Wednesday evening with no survivors. Some Russian media outlets reported that a second aircraft with the tail number RA-02748 was linked to Wagner and it was in the air at the time of the crash. Speaking to Reuters, Sergey Trifonov, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Jetica LLC, said its aircraft had no link with Wagner. "Neither the plane itself nor its passengers are related to Wagner and never have been," Trifonov said. This plane had not been rented out, Trifonov said, though he declined to say who was its owner. Citing flight tracking data, Reuters reported that RA-02748 was landing in St. Petersburg on Wednesday evening on a flight from Moscow when the aircraft believed to be carrying Prigozhin crashed. It then took off back to Moscow about 20 minutes later. Absolute lie: Kremlin dismisses accusations of killing Prigozhin The Kremlin on Friday dismissed West's accusation that Prigozhin had been killed on its orders. Kremlin said that this accusation was an "absolute lie." "There is now a great deal of speculation surrounding this plane crash and the tragic deaths of the plane's passengers, including Yevgeny Prigozhin. Of course, in the West, all this speculation is presented from a well-known angle. All of this is an absolute lie, and it is necessary to rely exclusively on facts when covering this issue," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said. "Yesterday, speaking on this topic, the president said he was waiting for the results of the investigation that would be finished in the near future and we would find out the details," Peskov added. Russian investigators have opened a probe into what happened, but have not yet said what they suspect caused the plane to suddenly fall from the sky, nor they have confirmed the identities of the 10 bodies recovered from the wreckage. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Second aircraft linked to Prigozhin had no connection to Wagner group: Report

<p>The Kremlin has rejected allegations of its involvement in the killing of Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin. This comes as US officials have suggested that Russian President Vladimir Putin might have ordered Prigozhin's killing and it could have been an intentional plane explosion. However, in a new statement, the Kremlin has dismissed these claims terming it an "absolute lie". Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated, “There is a lot of speculation around this disaster, around the tragic death of the passengers on the plane, including Yevgeny Prigozhin. Of course, in the west all these speculations are presented from a certain angle. This is all an absolute lie.”</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-with-prigozhin-dead-wagner-groups-bloodied-past-tumultuous-present-uncertain-future-629170">With Prigozhin dead, Wagner group's bloodied past, tumultuous present &amp; uncertain future</a></p>

<p>The circumstances of Prigozhin's death, in a plane crash or due to an explosion, are under debate. Russian President Vladimir Putin also issued a decree requiring allegiance oaths from Wagner and other private military company personnel.</p>

<h2><strong>Fatal crash of Wagner Chief’s jet spurs speculation</strong></h2>

<p>Yevgeny Prigozhin’s death is thought to have occurred in the crash of his Embraer jet, which went down northwest of Moscow.&nbsp;Prigozhin had previously resisted placing his mercenaries under direct state control, despite Putin's request.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greek-wildfires-are-worst-in-europe-in-decades-says-eu-backed-climate-service-629165">Greek wildfires are worst in Europe in years, says EU-backed climate service</a></p>

<p>Prigozhin's refusal to comply with this directive led to escalating tensions with the Russian government, particularly the defence ministry. He had undertaken actions that directly challenged the government's authority, including the recent armed rebellion.</p>

<h2><strong>Confirmation delays&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Russian officials have been slow in confirming Prigozhin's death, but his name was listed on the flight manifest published by Russian aviation authorities. Putin, as per Peskov, was awaiting the results of a comprehensive investigation into the crash before making any official statement. Prigozhin's use of body doubles, multiple passports, and disguises had previously led to false reports of his death.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | PM Modi, Xi Jinping discuss border issues in Johannesburg</strong></p>

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<p>Putin said the Wagner chief made "some serious mistakes in his life". Despite differences, Putin also acknowledged Prigozhin's contributions to the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UK Ministry of Defence noted that definitive proof of Prigozhin's presence on the ill-fated flight is lacking due to his extensive security measures. However, there is a high likelihood of his demise, they added.&nbsp;</p>

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The Kremlin has rejected allegations of its involvement in the killing of Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin. This comes as US officials have suggested that Russian President Vladimir Putin might have ordered Prigozhin's killing and it could have been an intentional plane explosion.

The Kremlin has rejected allegations of its involvement in the killing of Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin. This comes as US officials have suggested that Russian President Vladimir Putin might have ordered Prigozhin's killing and it could have been an intentional plane explosion. However, in a new statement, the Kremlin has dismissed these claims terming it an "absolute lie". Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated, “There is a lot of speculation around this disaster, around the tragic death of the passengers on the plane, including Yevgeny Prigozhin. Of course, in the west all these speculations are presented from a certain angle. This is all an absolute lie.” Also Read | With Prigozhin dead, Wagner group's bloodied past, tumultuous present & uncertain future The circumstances of Prigozhin's death, in a plane crash or due to an explosion, are under debate. Russian President Vladimir Putin also issued a decree requiring allegiance oaths from Wagner and other private military company personnel. Fatal crash of Wagner Chief’s jet spurs speculation Yevgeny Prigozhin’s death is thought to have occurred in the crash of his Embraer jet, which went down northwest of Moscow. Prigozhin had previously resisted placing his mercenaries under direct state control, despite Putin's request. Also Read | Greek wildfires are worst in Europe in years, says EU-backed climate service Prigozhin's refusal to comply with this directive led to escalating tensions with the Russian government, particularly the defence ministry. He had undertaken actions that directly challenged the government's authority, including the recent armed rebellion. Confirmation delays Russian officials have been slow in confirming Prigozhin's death, but his name was listed on the flight manifest published by Russian aviation authorities. Putin, as per Peskov, was awaiting the results of a comprehensive investigation into the crash before making any official statement. Prigozhin's use of body doubles, multiple passports, and disguises had previously led to false reports of his death. Watch | PM Modi, Xi Jinping discuss border issues in Johannesburg × Putin said the Wagner chief made "some serious mistakes in his life". Despite differences, Putin also acknowledged Prigozhin's contributions to the war in Ukraine. The UK Ministry of Defence noted that definitive proof of Prigozhin's presence on the ill-fated flight is lacking due to his extensive security measures. However, there is a high likelihood of his demise, they added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'Absolute lie': Kremlin rejects accusations of killing Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin

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<p>Russian opposition leader and Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's&nbsp;prison sentence has been extended to&nbsp;19 years on Friday (August 4) in a criminal case that he said was trumped up to keep him behind bars and out of politics for even longer, a report by the news agency Reuters said. Navalny, 47, is already serving sentences totalling 11.5 years on fraud and other charges that he says are also bogus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On July 20, Russian prosecutors sought a jail sentence of 20 years for Navalny, following which the European Union added the chief of the Russian prison camp holding the Kremlin critic to its sanctions list.</p>

<p>As the arch-rival of President Vladimir Putin awaits his fate, here’s a look at who he is and how he got to this point.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Alexei Navalny?</strong></h2>

<p>A lawyer by profession, Alexei Navalny gained prominence after he started writing blogs that exposed what he said was vast corruption in Russia. Navalny has said that the country is ruled by crooks and thieves.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Navalny and his team have lampooned President Putin and produced slick videos to expose the opulent lifestyles of the country’s elite. He has forecast that Russia could face seismic political turmoil, including a revolution because he says President Putin has built a system of personal rule that is reliant on sycophancy and corruption.</p>

<p>In the 2000s, Navalny participated in Russian nationalist marches and voiced anti-immigrant views. When protests against Putin flared in late 2011, Navalny was one of the first protesters to be arrested. Two years later, he ran for mayor of Moscow and won 27 per cent of the vote. However, since then, he has been barred on various grounds from running for office.</p>

<p>In an interview with Reuters in 2011, Navalny said that corruption was the foundation of contemporary Russia, adding, “It is the foundation of Mr. Putin’s political power.”</p>

<h2><strong>The dismissal and accusation</strong></h2>

<p>The Kremlin has dismissed Navalny's claims about corruption and Putin’s wealth. At one point, the Kremlin accused him of working with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) to undermine Russia. It also portrayed Navalny as an agent of disruption and says he never represented serious political competition.</p>

<p>At present, Navalny’s movement is outlawed and most of his senior allies have fled Russia. Navalny has been detained multiple times for organising public rallies, and prosecuted repeatedly on charges including corruption, embezzlement, and fraud.</p>

<p>He denies the accusations and convictions by saying they are politically motivated.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The poisonings</strong></h2>

<p>In August 2020, Navalny fell ill on a flight from Siberia to Moscow. An emergency landing was made and Navalny was flown to Berlin where he was treated for the effects of a neurotoxin. Lab tests in three countries showed this neurotoxin to be Novichok, a poison developed in the Soviet Union. According to Reuters, a joint media investigation stated it identified a team of assassins from Russia’s FSB security service behind the poisoning.</p>

<p>Impersonating himself as a Russian official, Navalny made a phone call to one of the agents and the latter revealed the details of the plot, which included that the poison was smeared on Navalny’s underpants.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dismissing the investigation, Putin said, “If someone had wanted to poison him, they would have finished him off.”</p>

<h2><strong>Extension of&nbsp;Navalny's prison sentence</strong></h2>

<p>Navalny has been sentenced to an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-critic-alexei-navalny-jailed-for-19-more-years-on-series-of-charges-reports-622438">additional 19 years in prison</a> after being found guilty on a series of new charges, on Friday (August 4), a sentence close to what he predicted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is after the Russian prosecutors have sought another 20 years of prison sentence on six separate criminal charges, including inciting and financing extremist activity and creating an extremist organisation, Reuters reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a message posted on social media on Thursday, Navalny said the outcome (of the prison sentence) could be slightly less, at around 18 years.</p>

<p>“It’s going to be a long sentence. What is called ‘Stalinist’,” said Navalny, who can post on social media via his supporters and lawyers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, the Kremlin critic said that he would keep opposing Russian authorities. “For a new, free, rich country to be born, it must have parents. Those who want it. Who expects it and who are willing to make sacrifices for its birth,” he said, according to a text supplied by his aides.</p>

<h2><strong>On the Ukraine war</strong></h2>

<p>Alexei Navalny has also criticised the ongoing war in Ukraine by saying it was a “stupid war” which Putin started, adding the conflict was built on lies.</p>

<p>“One madman has got his claws into Ukraine and I do not know what he wants to do with it - this crazy thief,” Navalny said in a court hearing in 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On June 19 this year, Navalny announced the start of a new mass campaign against Putin and the Ukraine war.</p>

<p>“We will conduct an election campaign against war. And against Putin. Just that. A long, stubborn, exhausting but fundamentally important campaign where we will turn people against the war,” he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian opposition leader and Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's prison sentence has been extended to 19 years on Friday (August 4) in a criminal case that he said was trumped up to keep him behind bars and out of politics for even longer, a report by the news agency Reuters said.

Russian opposition leader and Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's prison sentence has been extended to 19 years on Friday (August 4) in a criminal case that he said was trumped up to keep him behind bars and out of politics for even longer, a report by the news agency Reuters said. Navalny, 47, is already serving sentences totalling 11.5 years on fraud and other charges that he says are also bogus. On July 20, Russian prosecutors sought a jail sentence of 20 years for Navalny, following which the European Union added the chief of the Russian prison camp holding the Kremlin critic to its sanctions list. As the arch-rival of President Vladimir Putin awaits his fate, here’s a look at who he is and how he got to this point. Who is Alexei Navalny? A lawyer by profession, Alexei Navalny gained prominence after he started writing blogs that exposed what he said was vast corruption in Russia. Navalny has said that the country is ruled by crooks and thieves. Navalny and his team have lampooned President Putin and produced slick videos to expose the opulent lifestyles of the country’s elite. He has forecast that Russia could face seismic political turmoil, including a revolution because he says President Putin has built a system of personal rule that is reliant on sycophancy and corruption. In the 2000s, Navalny participated in Russian nationalist marches and voiced anti-immigrant views. When protests against Putin flared in late 2011, Navalny was one of the first protesters to be arrested. Two years later, he ran for mayor of Moscow and won 27 per cent of the vote. However, since then, he has been barred on various grounds from running for office. In an interview with Reuters in 2011, Navalny said that corruption was the foundation of contemporary Russia, adding, “It is the foundation of Mr. Putin’s political power.” The dismissal and accusation The Kremlin has dismissed Navalny's claims about corruption and Putin’s wealth. At one point, the Kremlin accused him of working with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) to undermine Russia. It also portrayed Navalny as an agent of disruption and says he never represented serious political competition. At present, Navalny’s movement is outlawed and most of his senior allies have fled Russia. Navalny has been detained multiple times for organising public rallies, and prosecuted repeatedly on charges including corruption, embezzlement, and fraud. He denies the accusations and convictions by saying they are politically motivated. The poisonings In August 2020, Navalny fell ill on a flight from Siberia to Moscow. An emergency landing was made and Navalny was flown to Berlin where he was treated for the effects of a neurotoxin. Lab tests in three countries showed this neurotoxin to be Novichok, a poison developed in the Soviet Union. According to Reuters, a joint media investigation stated it identified a team of assassins from Russia’s FSB security service behind the poisoning. Impersonating himself as a Russian official, Navalny made a phone call to one of the agents and the latter revealed the details of the plot, which included that the poison was smeared on Navalny’s underpants. Dismissing the investigation, Putin said, “If someone had wanted to poison him, they would have finished him off.” Extension of Navalny's prison sentence Navalny has been sentenced to an additional 19 years in prison after being found guilty on a series of new charges, on Friday (August 4), a sentence close to what he predicted. This is after the Russian prosecutors have sought another 20 years of prison sentence on six separate criminal charges, including inciting and financing extremist activity and creating an extremist organisation, Reuters reported. In a message posted on social media on Thursday, Navalny said the outcome (of the prison sentence) could be slightly less, at around 18 years. “It’s going to be a long sentence. What is called ‘Stalinist’,” said Navalny, who can post on social media via his supporters and lawyers. Last month, the Kremlin critic said that he would keep opposing Russian authorities. “For a new, free, rich country to be born, it must have parents. Those who want it. Who expects it and who are willing to make sacrifices for its birth,” he said, according to a text supplied by his aides. On the Ukraine war Alexei Navalny has also criticised the ongoing war in Ukraine by saying it was a “stupid war” which Putin started, adding the conflict was built on lies. “One madman has got his claws into Ukraine and I do not know what he wants to do with it - this crazy thief,” Navalny said in a court hearing in 2022. On June 19 this year, Navalny announced the start of a new mass campaign against Putin and the Ukraine war. “We will conduct an election campaign against war. And against Putin. Just that. A long, stubborn, exhausting but fundamentally important campaign where we will turn people against the war,” he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny jailed for 19 more years. Who is he?

The two office buildings were damaged in the drone attack on Moscow, the capital of Russia, which Russian authorities are currently blaming on Ukraine, according to Moscow's mayor. He added that no one was hurt. Rescue efforts started as soon as law enforcement agencies arrived on the scene.

Ukraine drone attack: Two buildings near Kremlin damaged; Zelensky says, 'War coming to Russia'

<p>Pro-coup protesters in Niger were seen waving the Russian flag as they staged demonstrations in the streets of the crisis-hit nation on Sunday (July 30).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The protesters even attacked the French embassy amid a warning from the West African governments of possible military action to restore democratic rule.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media reports mentioned that in the capital city of Niamey, demonstrators were seen with Russian flags. The miscreants smashed windows at the French embassy and set a perimeter door on fire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There were rumours on social media that protesters entered the embassy premises, but media reports clarified that they didn't breach the walls.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/niger-coup-ousted-president-bazoum-seen-for-first-time-since-detention-meets-chads-leader-621096">Ousted president Bazoum seen for first time since detention, meets Chad's leader</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Video shared on social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, showed thousands of people in Niger chanting "Long live Putin, Long Live Russia, Down with Macron, Down with France," while they were protesting outside the French embassy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>President Mohamed Bazoum, a Western ally, was toppled on July 26 by the elite Presidential Guard. Bazoum's election just over two years ago was seen as a watershed moment in Niger's troubled history.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Niger coup leaders declared General Abdourahamane Tiani as the new head of state last Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/niger-nuclear-reserves-how-this-coup-can-throw-europe-into-deep-energy-crisis-621073">Niger nuclear reserves: How the coup can throw Europe into a deep energy crisis</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Niger upheaval extends coup belt across Sahel&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Kremlin expresses concerns</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the Kremlin expressed concern on Monday (July 31) over the situation in Niger. The coup was condemned by many countries, but Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of Russia's mercenary Wagner group, welcomed the move.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week, a video of the Wagner boss was published on social media, in which he was heard endorsing the coup and offering the services of his fighters to the junta.&nbsp;</p>

<p>News agencies reported that Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in a call with reporters that "what is happening (in Niger) is a matter of serious concern".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Peskov said, "We are in favour of the speedy restoration of the rule of law in the country, we are in favour of restraint on all sides so that this does not lead to human casualties."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Pro-coup protesters in Niger were seen waving the Russian flag as they staged demonstrations in the streets of the crisis-hit nation on Sunday (July 30). The protesters even attacked the French embassy amid a warning from the West African governments of possible military action to restore democratic rule.

Pro-coup protesters in Niger were seen waving the Russian flag as they staged demonstrations in the streets of the crisis-hit nation on Sunday (July 30). The protesters even attacked the French embassy amid a warning from the West African governments of possible military action to restore democratic rule. Media reports mentioned that in the capital city of Niamey, demonstrators were seen with Russian flags. The miscreants smashed windows at the French embassy and set a perimeter door on fire. There were rumours on social media that protesters entered the embassy premises, but media reports clarified that they didn't breach the walls. Also read: Ousted president Bazoum seen for first time since detention, meets Chad's leader Video shared on social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, showed thousands of people in Niger chanting "Long live Putin, Long Live Russia, Down with Macron, Down with France," while they were protesting outside the French embassy. President Mohamed Bazoum, a Western ally, was toppled on July 26 by the elite Presidential Guard. Bazoum's election just over two years ago was seen as a watershed moment in Niger's troubled history. Niger coup leaders declared General Abdourahamane Tiani as the new head of state last Friday. Also read: Niger nuclear reserves: How the coup can throw Europe into a deep energy crisis Watch: Niger upheaval extends coup belt across Sahel × Kremlin expresses concerns Meanwhile, the Kremlin expressed concern on Monday (July 31) over the situation in Niger. The coup was condemned by many countries, but Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of Russia's mercenary Wagner group, welcomed the move. Last week, a video of the Wagner boss was published on social media, in which he was heard endorsing the coup and offering the services of his fighters to the junta. News agencies reported that Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in a call with reporters that "what is happening (in Niger) is a matter of serious concern". Peskov said, "We are in favour of the speedy restoration of the rule of law in the country, we are in favour of restraint on all sides so that this does not lead to human casualties." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Niger: Pro-coup protesters wave Russian flag, Kremlin expresses concern

According to a statement from the Kremlin, Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to travel to China in October to meet with his country's closest ally in an effort to strengthen bilateral ties. China will be hosting the one belt, one road initiative.

Kremlin: Russian President's trip to China is 'on the agenda'

The future of the black sea grain deal looks to be in the doldrums. While Turkiye's President Erdogan had on Friday confirmed the renewal of the deal. In a fresh development now, Russia’s Putin seems to have reiterated that he sees no ground to renew the deal. He apparently said this during a phone call with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. The expiration date of the black sea grain deal has now been decided. Watch the video to know more.

Kremlin: Main goal of Black Sea Grain deal has not been met

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin, while addressing the troops gathered in Kremlin on Tuesday, said that the civil war was prevented by them after a revolt by Wagner mercenaries. The president also observed a minute of silence for pilots who lost their lives in clashes during the mutiny.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You de facto stopped the civil war," said Putin, while speaking to troops from the FSB security service, National Guard, defence ministry, and interior ministry.</p>

<p>"You proved your loyalty to the people of Russia and the military oath. You showed responsibility for the fate of the motherland and its future," he added.</p>

<p>"In the confrontation with rebels, our comrades-in-arms, pilots, were killed. They did not flinch and honourably fulfilled their orders and their military duty," said Putin, before holding a minute of silence in memory of the lost lives.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-confirms-pilots-killed-during-wagner-mutiny-pays-tributes-609242">Russian President Putin confirms pilots killed during Wagner mutiny, pays tributes</a></p>

<p>Putin further stated that the Wagner mercenaries, &nbsp;who had participated in an armed insurrection last week over the military leadership of Russia, failed to win the support of the Russian army or its people.</p>

<p>"People who were drawn into the rebellion saw that the army and the people were not with them," said the Russian president in a televised address while speaking to the law enforcement agencies outside the Kremlin.</p>

<p>He added that no soldier was deployed by Moscow to Ukraine to counter the Wagner's armed rebellion inside Russia, as the Kremlin insisted that its offensive against Kyiv will remain unaffected.</p>

<p>"We did not have to take combat units from the special military operation zone," said Putin, while speaking to law enforcement agencies at the Kremlin, adding that "all military formations continued to wage a heroic fight at the front during that time."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Wagner Mutiny: Has Putin's credibility been damaged?</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Preparing to transfer Wagner hardware to the army: Russia&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Russia on Tuesday said that they are preparing to take possession of heavy military hardware which was held by Wagner as Moscow took steps to take control of the mercenary group after its aborted mutiny.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Preparations are underway for the transfer of heavy military equipment from the private military company Wagner to units of the Russian armed forces," said the defence ministry.</p>

<h2><strong>Mutiny is an event of no major significance: Orban&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said that he does not feel Russian President Vladimir Putin has been weakened by the Mutiny adding that it is an "event of no major significance".</p>

<p>"If someone speculates that he (Putin) could fail or be replaced, then he does not understand the Russian people and Russian power structures," he stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin, while addressing the troops gathered in Kremlin on Tuesday, said that the civil war was prevented by them after a revolt by Wagner mercenaries.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, while addressing the troops gathered in Kremlin on Tuesday, said that the civil war was prevented by them after a revolt by Wagner mercenaries. The president also observed a minute of silence for pilots who lost their lives in clashes during the mutiny. "You de facto stopped the civil war," said Putin, while speaking to troops from the FSB security service, National Guard, defence ministry, and interior ministry. "You proved your loyalty to the people of Russia and the military oath. You showed responsibility for the fate of the motherland and its future," he added. "In the confrontation with rebels, our comrades-in-arms, pilots, were killed. They did not flinch and honourably fulfilled their orders and their military duty," said Putin, before holding a minute of silence in memory of the lost lives. ALSO READ | Russian President Putin confirms pilots killed during Wagner mutiny, pays tributes Putin further stated that the Wagner mercenaries, who had participated in an armed insurrection last week over the military leadership of Russia, failed to win the support of the Russian army or its people. "People who were drawn into the rebellion saw that the army and the people were not with them," said the Russian president in a televised address while speaking to the law enforcement agencies outside the Kremlin. He added that no soldier was deployed by Moscow to Ukraine to counter the Wagner's armed rebellion inside Russia, as the Kremlin insisted that its offensive against Kyiv will remain unaffected. "We did not have to take combat units from the special military operation zone," said Putin, while speaking to law enforcement agencies at the Kremlin, adding that "all military formations continued to wage a heroic fight at the front during that time." WATCH | Gravitas: Wagner Mutiny: Has Putin's credibility been damaged? Preparing to transfer Wagner hardware to the army: Russia Russia on Tuesday said that they are preparing to take possession of heavy military hardware which was held by Wagner as Moscow took steps to take control of the mercenary group after its aborted mutiny. "Preparations are underway for the transfer of heavy military equipment from the private military company Wagner to units of the Russian armed forces," said the defence ministry. Mutiny is an event of no major significance: Orban Meanwhile, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said that he does not feel Russian President Vladimir Putin has been weakened by the Mutiny adding that it is an "event of no major significance". "If someone speculates that he (Putin) could fail or be replaced, then he does not understand the Russian people and Russian power structures," he stated. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'You de facto stopped civil war,' says Putin to troops in Kremlin post failed mutiny

<p>Yevgeny Prigozhin, the mercenary group Wagner's chief,&nbsp;on Friday, accused Moscow's military leadership of ordering strikes on his camps and killing a "huge" number of forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We were ready to make concessions to the defence ministry, surrender our weapons," Prigozhin said in an audio message released by his spokespeople.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today, seeing that we have not been broken, they conducted missile strikes at our rear camps," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian defence ministry has denied Prigozhin's claims of strikes on camps of Wagner&nbsp;forces. As per a report by CNN,&nbsp;Russia’s domestic intelligence service has now&nbsp;opened a criminal case against him.</p>

<h2><strong>There was no need for Russia to invade Ukraine&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Wagner chief also blamed defence minister Sergei Shoigu for starting the war in Ukraine in February last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prigozhin has often accused Shoigu and some other officials during the course of the war, but the latest allegation is significant, as it questions Russia's justifications for invading Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a video posted on social media on&nbsp;Friday (June 23), the Wagner chief can be heard saying that Russia did not face any imminent security threat to justify the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a half-hour video released by his press service, Prigozhin&nbsp;said, "The Armed Forces of Ukraine were not going to attack Russia with the NATO bloc. The Russian Defence Ministry is deceiving the public and the president."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-to-have-rippled-13-cruise-missiles-fired-by-russia-607781">Ukraine claims to have struck down 13 cruise missiles fired by Russia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"On 24 February [2022] there was nothing extraordinary happening there. Now the Ministry of Defence is trying to deceive the public, deceive the president and tell a story that there was some crazy aggression by Ukraine, that - together with the whole NATO&nbsp;bloc - Ukraine was planning to attack us," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The war was needed... so that Shoigu could become a Marshal, so that he could get a second Hero Star… the war wasn't for demilitarising or de-nazifying Ukraine. It was needed for an extra star," he further added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Why did the special military operation begin? ... the war was needed for the self-promotion of a bunch of ba***rds," he added, further blaming Russian military leadership for "poorly planning" the invasion and "embarrassing" because of the setbacks on the battlefield.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-mounts-legal-challenge-to-keep-embassy-site-near-australian-parliament-607792">Russia mounts legal challenge to keep embassy site near Australian parliament</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>He said, "Shoigu killed thousands of the most combat-ready Russian soldiers in the first days of the war. The mentally ill sc**bags decided 'It's okay, we'll throw in a few thousand more Russian men as cannon fodder.&nbsp;They'll die under artillery fire, but we'll get what we want'."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"That's why it has become a protracted war," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prigozhin said that the war was also needed to enrich the ruling elite who were not satisfied with the commercial potential of part of Ukraine's Donbas region that Moscow seized control of in 2014 via a proxy separatist force.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "The task was to divide material assets (in Ukraine). There was massive theft in the Donbas, but they wanted more."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russian diplomat stages protest as Australia dismisses lease for Moscow embassy&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Russia 'retreating' from Ukraine attacks&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Wagner's chief also said that Moscow's forces are retreating in Ukraine's east and south following Kyiv's counteroffensive - remarks that are basically contradicting recent assessments by Russian President Vladimir Putin that Ukraine was suffering "catastrophic" losses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"On the ground now ... the Russian army is retreating on the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson fronts. The Armed Forces of Ukraine are pushing back the Russian army," Prigozhin said on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, just a few days after launching the invasion, Russia claimed that it annexed the southern Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are washing ourselves in blood. No one is bringing reserves. What they tell us is the deepest deception," Prigozhin added, referring to the Russian military and political leadership.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Yevgeny Prigozhin, the mercenary group Wagner's chief, on Friday, accused Moscow's military leadership of ordering strikes on his camps and killing a "huge" number of forces.

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the mercenary group Wagner's chief, on Friday, accused Moscow's military leadership of ordering strikes on his camps and killing a "huge" number of forces. "We were ready to make concessions to the defence ministry, surrender our weapons," Prigozhin said in an audio message released by his spokespeople. "Today, seeing that we have not been broken, they conducted missile strikes at our rear camps," he added. The Russian defence ministry has denied Prigozhin's claims of strikes on camps of Wagner forces. As per a report by CNN, Russia’s domestic intelligence service has now opened a criminal case against him. There was no need for Russia to invade Ukraine Wagner chief also blamed defence minister Sergei Shoigu for starting the war in Ukraine in February last year. Prigozhin has often accused Shoigu and some other officials during the course of the war, but the latest allegation is significant, as it questions Russia's justifications for invading Ukraine. In a video posted on social media on Friday (June 23), the Wagner chief can be heard saying that Russia did not face any imminent security threat to justify the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. In a half-hour video released by his press service, Prigozhin said, "The Armed Forces of Ukraine were not going to attack Russia with the NATO bloc. The Russian Defence Ministry is deceiving the public and the president." Also read: Ukraine claims to have struck down 13 cruise missiles fired by Russia "On 24 February [2022] there was nothing extraordinary happening there. Now the Ministry of Defence is trying to deceive the public, deceive the president and tell a story that there was some crazy aggression by Ukraine, that - together with the whole NATO bloc - Ukraine was planning to attack us," he said. "The war was needed... so that Shoigu could become a Marshal, so that he could get a second Hero Star… the war wasn't for demilitarising or de-nazifying Ukraine. It was needed for an extra star," he further added. "Why did the special military operation begin? ... the war was needed for the self-promotion of a bunch of ba***rds," he added, further blaming Russian military leadership for "poorly planning" the invasion and "embarrassing" because of the setbacks on the battlefield. Also read: Russia mounts legal challenge to keep embassy site near Australian parliament He said, "Shoigu killed thousands of the most combat-ready Russian soldiers in the first days of the war. The mentally ill sc**bags decided 'It's okay, we'll throw in a few thousand more Russian men as cannon fodder. They'll die under artillery fire, but we'll get what we want'." "That's why it has become a protracted war," he said. Prigozhin said that the war was also needed to enrich the ruling elite who were not satisfied with the commercial potential of part of Ukraine's Donbas region that Moscow seized control of in 2014 via a proxy separatist force. He said, "The task was to divide material assets (in Ukraine). There was massive theft in the Donbas, but they wanted more." Watch: Russian diplomat stages protest as Australia dismisses lease for Moscow embassy × Russia 'retreating' from Ukraine attacks Wagner's chief also said that Moscow's forces are retreating in Ukraine's east and south following Kyiv's counteroffensive - remarks that are basically contradicting recent assessments by Russian President Vladimir Putin that Ukraine was suffering "catastrophic" losses. "On the ground now ... the Russian army is retreating on the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson fronts. The Armed Forces of Ukraine are pushing back the Russian army," Prigozhin said on social media. Last year, just a few days after launching the invasion, Russia claimed that it annexed the southern Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. "We are washing ourselves in blood. No one is bringing reserves. What they tell us is the deepest deception," Prigozhin added, referring to the Russian military and political leadership. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Wagner chief accuses Russian military of bombing his forces, vows revenge

<p>Warning bells are ringing in Moscow over fears that Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin might attempt at orchestrating a military coup in Russia. The enraged Wagner boss declared Saturday that his men had crossed the border from Ukraine into Russia and he was ready to go “all the way” against the Russian military.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are going onwards and we will go to the end," Yevgeny Prigozhin, 62, said in an audio message.</p>

<p>"We will destroy everything that stands in our way," he added in the most audacious challenge to President Vladimir Putin since the start of the offensive in Ukraine last year.</p>

<h2><strong>Why Kremlin and Wagner chief are at loggerheads?</strong></h2>

<p>A long-running standoff between Kremlin and Russia’s top military brass seems to have come to a head. Earlier, the Wagner boss accused Russia of staging an attack on his men and killing 2,000 of them. "Today, seeing that we have not been broken, they conducted missile strikes at our rear camps," Prigozhin alleged.<br />
<br />
Earlier, he also blamed the Russian defence ministry and Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu for starting the war in Ukraine. He said, "The Armed Forces of Ukraine were not going to attack Russia with the NATO bloc. The Russian Defence Ministry is deceiving the public and the president."</p>

<h2><strong>Kremlin orders Prigozhin’s immediate arrest, prosecution </strong></h2>

<p>As the Wagner boss vows to take revenge on the Russian authorities, the Kremlin has ordered his immediate arrest and prosecution. Russia also accused mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin of calling for an armed mutiny after he alleged, without providing evidence, that the military leadership had claimed the lives of 2,000 of his fighters and vowed to stop what he called its "evil".</p>

<p>Russia’s top commander in Ukraine, Sergey Surovikin, on Friday evening, urged the Wagner fighters to "stop" and to "obey the will" of President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I’m addressing the leadership, commanders and fighters of Wagner. Together with you, we have traveled a difficult and hard path. We fought together, took risks, suffered losses and we won together. We are of the same blood. We are warriors. I urge you to stop, the enemy is only waiting for the internal political situation to worsen in our country," Surovikin was quoted as saying in Russian state media reports.</p>

<h2><strong>Security measures being taken in Moscow</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, security around Moscow and the Kremlin has been beefed up. The military build-up in the area has been increasing for some hours now. Russian President Vladimir Putin is aware of the situation that is unfolding around Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of the private military company Wagner, and the necessary measures are being taken, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, as per news agency TASS.</p>

<h2><strong>Reaction from the US</strong></h2>

<p>US National Security Council spokesperson Adam Hodge on Friday said that the US was monitoring the developing situation involving the Wagner fighters and Russia.&nbsp;</p>

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Warning bells are ringing in Moscow over fears that Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin might attempt at orchestrating a military coup in Russia. The enraged Wagner boss declared Saturday that his men had crossed the border from Ukraine into Russia and he was ready to go “all the way” against the Russian military.

Warning bells are ringing in Moscow over fears that Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin might attempt at orchestrating a military coup in Russia. The enraged Wagner boss declared Saturday that his men had crossed the border from Ukraine into Russia and he was ready to go “all the way” against the Russian military. "We are going onwards and we will go to the end," Yevgeny Prigozhin, 62, said in an audio message. "We will destroy everything that stands in our way," he added in the most audacious challenge to President Vladimir Putin since the start of the offensive in Ukraine last year. Why Kremlin and Wagner chief are at loggerheads? A long-running standoff between Kremlin and Russia’s top military brass seems to have come to a head. Earlier, the Wagner boss accused Russia of staging an attack on his men and killing 2,000 of them. "Today, seeing that we have not been broken, they conducted missile strikes at our rear camps," Prigozhin alleged. Earlier, he also blamed the Russian defence ministry and Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu for starting the war in Ukraine. He said, "The Armed Forces of Ukraine were not going to attack Russia with the NATO bloc. The Russian Defence Ministry is deceiving the public and the president." Kremlin orders Prigozhin’s immediate arrest, prosecution As the Wagner boss vows to take revenge on the Russian authorities, the Kremlin has ordered his immediate arrest and prosecution. Russia also accused mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin of calling for an armed mutiny after he alleged, without providing evidence, that the military leadership had claimed the lives of 2,000 of his fighters and vowed to stop what he called its "evil". Russia’s top commander in Ukraine, Sergey Surovikin, on Friday evening, urged the Wagner fighters to "stop" and to "obey the will" of President Vladimir Putin. "I’m addressing the leadership, commanders and fighters of Wagner. Together with you, we have traveled a difficult and hard path. We fought together, took risks, suffered losses and we won together. We are of the same blood. We are warriors. I urge you to stop, the enemy is only waiting for the internal political situation to worsen in our country," Surovikin was quoted as saying in Russian state media reports. Security measures being taken in Moscow Meanwhile, security around Moscow and the Kremlin has been beefed up. The military build-up in the area has been increasing for some hours now. Russian President Vladimir Putin is aware of the situation that is unfolding around Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of the private military company Wagner, and the necessary measures are being taken, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, as per news agency TASS. Reaction from the US US National Security Council spokesperson Adam Hodge on Friday said that the US was monitoring the developing situation involving the Wagner fighters and Russia. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Warning bells sounded in Moscow as Wagner’s men go all out against Russian military

<p>Jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny on Monday (June 19) appeared before a Russian court and defended himself against new charges of extremism slapped against him. If convicted, Navalny's jail term could be extended by decades.</p>

<p>The hearing of the case took place at the IK-6 penal colony in Melekhovo, which is about 235 kilometres east of Moscow. Navalny is already serving 11 and a half year jail sentence here.</p>

<p>Navalny supporters are accusing Russian authorities of trying to silence him in prison so as to avoid his criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Kremlin denies the charge.</p>

<p>Journalists were not allowed inside the courtroom when the hearing took place. They were allowed to follow proceedings from a nearby room with audio that was barely intelligible</p>

<p>Navalny, looking thin with cropped hair and dressed in a black prison uniform, could be seen seated at a desk, leafing through papers and briefly conferring with one of his lawyers.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Putin meets with African leaders as Russia confirms nukes in Belarus</strong></p>

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<p>Navalny stood up and spoke for about three minutes. He contested the authority of the judge.</p>

<p>"I believe that, taking into account the current circumstances, and of criminal law, you should withdraw," he said.</p>

<p>New charges against Navalny relate to six different articles of the Russian criminal code. These include inciting and financing extremist activity and forming an extremist organisation.</p>

<p>Navalny's campaign organisation has already been outlawed by Russian authorities as part of a crackdown on dissent. The crackdown took place well before the conflict in Ukraine started.</p>

<p>Last week, one of Navalny's regional campaign leaders was jailed for 7-1/2 years.</p>

<h2><strong>Crimes committed 'while already imprisoned'</strong></h2>

<p>In a tweet posted on his account by his supporters last month, Navalny responded with typical irony to the new charges.</p>

<p>"Well, Alexei, you're in some real trouble now ... The Prosecutor General's Office has officially provided me with 3,828 pages describing all the crimes I've committed while already imprisoned."</p>

<p>Navalny said that jail authorities did not allow him to read the material to know what exactly he was accused of. He said he was in solitary confinement and was allowed only a mug and one book.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | <a href="&lt;div class=&quot;videoWrapper trancodeVideo&quot;&gt;&lt;iframe src=&quot;https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-putin-reminds-talkative-host-to-respect-russian-national-anthem-605794/embed&quot; width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;350&quot; style=&quot;width:100%;max-width:560px;&quot; class=&quot;includeVideo&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; autoplay=1 allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">Putin reminds talkative host to respect Russian National Anthem</a></strong></p>

<p>Navalny, 46, earned admiration from the disparate opposition for voluntarily returning to Russia in 2021 from Germany, where he had been treated for what Western laboratory tests showed was an attempt to poison him with a Soviet-era nerve agent.</p>

<p>The Kremlin denied trying to kill him and said there was no evidence he had been poisoned with such a toxin.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny on Monday (June 19) appeared before a Russian court and defended himself against new charges of extremism slapped against him.

Jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny on Monday (June 19) appeared before a Russian court and defended himself against new charges of extremism slapped against him. If convicted, Navalny's jail term could be extended by decades. The hearing of the case took place at the IK-6 penal colony in Melekhovo, which is about 235 kilometres east of Moscow. Navalny is already serving 11 and a half year jail sentence here. Navalny supporters are accusing Russian authorities of trying to silence him in prison so as to avoid his criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Kremlin denies the charge. Journalists were not allowed inside the courtroom when the hearing took place. They were allowed to follow proceedings from a nearby room with audio that was barely intelligible Navalny, looking thin with cropped hair and dressed in a black prison uniform, could be seen seated at a desk, leafing through papers and briefly conferring with one of his lawyers. Watch | Putin meets with African leaders as Russia confirms nukes in Belarus × Navalny stood up and spoke for about three minutes. He contested the authority of the judge. "I believe that, taking into account the current circumstances, and of criminal law, you should withdraw," he said. New charges against Navalny relate to six different articles of the Russian criminal code. These include inciting and financing extremist activity and forming an extremist organisation. Navalny's campaign organisation has already been outlawed by Russian authorities as part of a crackdown on dissent. The crackdown took place well before the conflict in Ukraine started. Last week, one of Navalny's regional campaign leaders was jailed for 7-1/2 years. Crimes committed 'while already imprisoned' In a tweet posted on his account by his supporters last month, Navalny responded with typical irony to the new charges. "Well, Alexei, you're in some real trouble now ... The Prosecutor General's Office has officially provided me with 3,828 pages describing all the crimes I've committed while already imprisoned." Navalny said that jail authorities did not allow him to read the material to know what exactly he was accused of. He said he was in solitary confinement and was allowed only a mug and one book. WATCH | Putin reminds talkative host to respect Russian National Anthem Navalny, 46, earned admiration from the disparate opposition for voluntarily returning to Russia in 2021 from Germany, where he had been treated for what Western laboratory tests showed was an attempt to poison him with a Soviet-era nerve agent. The Kremlin denied trying to kill him and said there was no evidence he had been poisoned with such a toxin. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Kremlin-critic Alexei Navalny appears in court, faces extremism charges

<p>As per some sources linked to US intelligence quoted by CNN, Ukraine is working on arming its "agents and sympathisers"&nbsp;inside Russia with drones to undertake sabotage operations against the Russian establishment. The sources also attributed the recent drone attack on the Kremlin to these agents, who launched the drones from inside Russia rather than flying them from Ukrainian territory far away.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several other drone attacks have taken place in Russia over the last few days, including one on a residential neighbourhood near Moscow and another on an oil refinery in southern Russia. However, it was not clear whether those strikes were carried out by Ukrainian agents operating within Russian territory.</p>

<h2><strong>"No US-made drone used in attacks"</strong></h2>

<p>The sources quoted by CNN also clarified that drones used by Ukraine's agents in Russia were manufactured by Ukraine itself, and no US-made drone was used to stage attacks inside Russia. As per the sources, Ukrainian forces have established well-practised smuggling routes beyond the Russian border to send drone components to its operatives in Russia, where they assemble drones and carry out strikes on Russian targets.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia claims US behind Ukraine drone attack on the Kremlin</strong></p>

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<p>CNN also quoted a European intelligence source as saying that since the Russia-Ukraine border was very vast and difficult to control, it provided Ukraine with a god-sent opportunity to set up such smuggling routes along the border and use it to its own advantage.</p>

<h2><strong>"Strikes and explosions inside Russia will continue"</strong></h2>

<p>According to a spokesperson from the Ukrainian Security Service, as reported by CNN, it was suggested that the series of unexplained explosions and drone strikes within Russia would continue, indicating that its network of agents will continue to be active.</p>

<p>The spokesperson quoted the head of the Security Service, Vasyl Malyuk, stating that they would only comment on these incidents, referred to as "cotton" by Ukrainians, after achieving victory. Furthermore, the spokesperson emphasised that "cotton" had occurred, is currently happening, and will continue to occur.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-alleged-ukrainian-drones-targeted-luxury-homes-of-putins-ex-wife-and-daughter-600180"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Did Ukrainian drones allegedly target luxury homes of Putin's ex-wife and daughters?</strong></a></p>

<p>The term "cotton" is a slang word used by Ukrainians to describe explosions, particularly those happening in Russia or Russia-occupied territories within Ukraine. The term originated during the early stages of the war due to the similarity between the Russian word for "pop" and the Ukrainian word for "cotton".</p>

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As per some sources linked to US intelligence quoted by CNN, Ukraine is working on arming its "agents and sympathisers" inside Russia with drones to undertake sabotage operations against the Russian establishment.

As per some sources linked to US intelligence quoted by CNN, Ukraine is working on arming its "agents and sympathisers" inside Russia with drones to undertake sabotage operations against the Russian establishment. The sources also attributed the recent drone attack on the Kremlin to these agents, who launched the drones from inside Russia rather than flying them from Ukrainian territory far away. Several other drone attacks have taken place in Russia over the last few days, including one on a residential neighbourhood near Moscow and another on an oil refinery in southern Russia. However, it was not clear whether those strikes were carried out by Ukrainian agents operating within Russian territory. "No US-made drone used in attacks" The sources quoted by CNN also clarified that drones used by Ukraine's agents in Russia were manufactured by Ukraine itself, and no US-made drone was used to stage attacks inside Russia. As per the sources, Ukrainian forces have established well-practised smuggling routes beyond the Russian border to send drone components to its operatives in Russia, where they assemble drones and carry out strikes on Russian targets. Watch: Russia claims US behind Ukraine drone attack on the Kremlin × CNN also quoted a European intelligence source as saying that since the Russia-Ukraine border was very vast and difficult to control, it provided Ukraine with a god-sent opportunity to set up such smuggling routes along the border and use it to its own advantage. "Strikes and explosions inside Russia will continue" According to a spokesperson from the Ukrainian Security Service, as reported by CNN, it was suggested that the series of unexplained explosions and drone strikes within Russia would continue, indicating that its network of agents will continue to be active. The spokesperson quoted the head of the Security Service, Vasyl Malyuk, stating that they would only comment on these incidents, referred to as "cotton" by Ukrainians, after achieving victory. Furthermore, the spokesperson emphasised that "cotton" had occurred, is currently happening, and will continue to occur. Also read | Did Ukrainian drones allegedly target luxury homes of Putin's ex-wife and daughters? The term "cotton" is a slang word used by Ukrainians to describe explosions, particularly those happening in Russia or Russia-occupied territories within Ukraine. The term originated during the early stages of the war due to the similarity between the Russian word for "pop" and the Ukrainian word for "cotton". WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine has built network of agents inside Russia to sabotage Kremlin operations: Report

<p>Officials in the United States believe that Ukraine was likely behind the failed drone attack on the Kremlin earlier this month, The New York Times reported on Wednesday (May 24).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The officials said Ukraine is also possibly behind a number of other killings and incursions on Russian territory. The report, however, cited intelligence officials as saying that they do not know which unit exactly was behind the drone attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is also unclear if Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky knew about the attack beforehand.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Though the failed drone attack did not cause any damage, but it eroded the impression of invincibility of Kremlin.</p>

<p>The report said that the US has based its estimation on intercepted conversations within both Ukraine and Russia. However, it&nbsp;said that it has low confidence in that estimate because it has yet to determine which precise unit was behind the strike.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
American intelligence agencies are not sure who exactly carried out the attack, but insinuate that it was part of a series of covert operations plotted and conducted by Ukraine’s security services.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russian PM: We stand together against the West's agenda&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Kremlin drone attack&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>On May 3, two drones attacked the Kremlin in Moscow, but they caused little damage before being destroyed by Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Baza, a Telegram channel with links to Russia’s law enforcement agencies, had posted a video of a flying object approaching the dome of the Kremlin Senate building and exploding with an intense burst of light just before it was about to hit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Social media videos showed two objects flying in the same direction towards the dome, with the clock on the Kremlin’s Spassky Tower reading 2:27 and 2:43. The first appeared to be destroyed with only a cloud of smoke, but the second appeared to leave a blazing ruin on the dome.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The attack made officials in the United States — Kyiv’s biggest military supplier — uncomfortable since the Government weighs the risk of Russia blaming U.S. and retaliating by expanding the war beyond Ukraine.<br />
<br />
Russia has consistently blamed Ukraine for the drone attack, and&nbsp;also accused the U.S. of playing a role, and alleged that it was an attempt to kill President Vladimir Putin,&nbsp;but both Kyiv and Washington have&nbsp;vehemently denied their&nbsp;involvement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky denied any Ukrainian involvement and said at a press conference in Helsinki, "We don't attack Putin, or Moscow, we fight on our territory."&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the attack, Russia reserved the right to retaliate, Putin's office said, and Russian hardliners demanded swift retribution against Zelensky himself.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The presidency said in a statement: "Two uncrewed aerial vehicles were aimed at the Kremlin. As a result of timely actions taken by the military and special services with the use of radar warfare systems, the devices were put out of action."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We regard these actions as a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the president's life, carried out on the eve of Victory Day, the May 9 Parade, at which the presence of foreign guests is also planned."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Russian side reserves the right to take retaliatory measures where and when it sees fit."&nbsp;<br />
<br />
US officials do not believe it was an attempt to assassinate Putin as he is not known to spending a lot of time at the Kremlin.<br />
<br />
The drones that targeted the Kremlin were small with a light payload and it is unclear whether they would have had sufficient range to be flown from Ukraine to Moscow.<br />
<br />
Besides, US officials have not ruled out the possibility of non-state Ukrainian or Russian actors inside Russia, including Russians sympathetic to Putin hoping to shore up support for him, carrying out the attack.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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Officials in the United States believe that Ukraine was likely behind the failed drone attack on the Kremlin earlier this month, The New York Times reported on Wednesday (May 24).

Officials in the United States believe that Ukraine was likely behind the failed drone attack on the Kremlin earlier this month, The New York Times reported on Wednesday (May 24). The officials said Ukraine is also possibly behind a number of other killings and incursions on Russian territory. The report, however, cited intelligence officials as saying that they do not know which unit exactly was behind the drone attack. It is also unclear if Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky knew about the attack beforehand. Though the failed drone attack did not cause any damage, but it eroded the impression of invincibility of Kremlin. The report said that the US has based its estimation on intercepted conversations within both Ukraine and Russia. However, it said that it has low confidence in that estimate because it has yet to determine which precise unit was behind the strike. American intelligence agencies are not sure who exactly carried out the attack, but insinuate that it was part of a series of covert operations plotted and conducted by Ukraine’s security services. WATCH | Russian PM: We stand together against the West's agenda × Kremlin drone attack On May 3, two drones attacked the Kremlin in Moscow, but they caused little damage before being destroyed by Russia. Baza, a Telegram channel with links to Russia’s law enforcement agencies, had posted a video of a flying object approaching the dome of the Kremlin Senate building and exploding with an intense burst of light just before it was about to hit. Social media videos showed two objects flying in the same direction towards the dome, with the clock on the Kremlin’s Spassky Tower reading 2:27 and 2:43. The first appeared to be destroyed with only a cloud of smoke, but the second appeared to leave a blazing ruin on the dome. The attack made officials in the United States — Kyiv’s biggest military supplier — uncomfortable since the Government weighs the risk of Russia blaming U.S. and retaliating by expanding the war beyond Ukraine. Russia has consistently blamed Ukraine for the drone attack, and also accused the U.S. of playing a role, and alleged that it was an attempt to kill President Vladimir Putin, but both Kyiv and Washington have vehemently denied their involvement. Zelensky denied any Ukrainian involvement and said at a press conference in Helsinki, "We don't attack Putin, or Moscow, we fight on our territory." After the attack, Russia reserved the right to retaliate, Putin's office said, and Russian hardliners demanded swift retribution against Zelensky himself. The presidency said in a statement: "Two uncrewed aerial vehicles were aimed at the Kremlin. As a result of timely actions taken by the military and special services with the use of radar warfare systems, the devices were put out of action." "We regard these actions as a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the president's life, carried out on the eve of Victory Day, the May 9 Parade, at which the presence of foreign guests is also planned." "The Russian side reserves the right to take retaliatory measures where and when it sees fit." US officials do not believe it was an attempt to assassinate Putin as he is not known to spending a lot of time at the Kremlin. The drones that targeted the Kremlin were small with a light payload and it is unclear whether they would have had sufficient range to be flown from Ukraine to Moscow. Besides, US officials have not ruled out the possibility of non-state Ukrainian or Russian actors inside Russia, including Russians sympathetic to Putin hoping to shore up support for him, carrying out the attack. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US officials say inputs indicate Ukrainian role behind failed drone attack on Kremlin

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