<p>Russia,on Monday (August 7) said it plans to launch a lunar lander later this week after multiple delays, in a bid to return to the Moon for the first time in half a century. Ahead of the launch scheduled for Friday, Moscow officials also said they would evacuate a village in the country’s far east.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the Russian moon mission</strong></h2>

<p>In an update the Russian space agency, Roscosmos, said on Monday, “A Soyuz (rocket) for the launch of the Luna-25 (lander) has been assembled.” It added, “The launch is on August 11.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia is set to return to the moon with its Luna-25 lunar lander for the first time since 1976.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-3-successfully-enters-moons-orbit-isro-622730">Chandrayaan-3 successfully inserted into Moon’s orbit, under lunar gravity now: ISRO</a></strong></p>

<p>Nearly a month ago, Russian aerospace company NPO Lavochkina, builder of the moon lander and part of the Roscosmos, announced, “work has been completed on the creation of the Luna-25 spacecraft.”</p>

<h2><strong>Why is the Russian village being evacuated?</strong></h2>

<p>The evacuation will take place in Russia’s Shakhtinsky settlement in the Khabarovsk region, southeast of the launch site on Friday as it lies in the predicted area where the rocket boosters will fall after they separate, according to the local official.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The mouth of the Umalta, Ussamakh, Lepikan, Tastakh, Saganar rivers and the area of the ferry crossing on the Bureya River fall into the predicted (booster) fall zone,” said Alexei Maslov, head of the Verkhnebureinsky district in the Khabarovsk region, on messaging app, Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-space-agency-reveals-beijing-gave-russia-france-lunar-soil-heres-what-their-scientist-found-585817">Chinese space agency reveals Beijing gifted Russia, France lunar soil. Here's why</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, “The residents of Shakhtinsky will be evacuated.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the Russian lunar mission</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>According to the Russian space agency, the spacecraft will be launched from the Vostochny Cosmodrome which is around 5,550 kilometres east of Moscow.&nbsp;Luna-25 will launch on a Soyuz-2 Fregat booster and will be the first lander to arrive on the South Pole of the moon, Roscosmos has said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The objective of the recent moon mission is the development of soft-landing technologies, research of the internal structure of the Moon and exploration for resources, including water, said the Russian space agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-conflict-europe-cancels-joint-moon-missions-with-russia-475443">Russia-Ukraine conflict: Europe cancels joint moon missions with Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>“It is planned that the device will be the first in the world to carry out a soft landing on the surface of the moon in the south pole region and conduct contact studies of the lunar soil for the presence of ice at the landing site,” said the Russian aerospace company, last month. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p>The lander is expected to operate on the lunar surface for one year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Russia,on Monday (August 7) said it plans to launch a lunar lander later this week after multiple delays, in a bid to return to the Moon for the first time in half a century.

Russia,on Monday (August 7) said it plans to launch a lunar lander later this week after multiple delays, in a bid to return to the Moon for the first time in half a century. Ahead of the launch scheduled for Friday, Moscow officials also said they would evacuate a village in the country’s far east. About the Russian moon mission In an update the Russian space agency, Roscosmos, said on Monday, “A Soyuz (rocket) for the launch of the Luna-25 (lander) has been assembled.” It added, “The launch is on August 11.” Russia is set to return to the moon with its Luna-25 lunar lander for the first time since 1976. ALSO READ | Chandrayaan-3 successfully inserted into Moon’s orbit, under lunar gravity now: ISRO Nearly a month ago, Russian aerospace company NPO Lavochkina, builder of the moon lander and part of the Roscosmos, announced, “work has been completed on the creation of the Luna-25 spacecraft.” Why is the Russian village being evacuated? The evacuation will take place in Russia’s Shakhtinsky settlement in the Khabarovsk region, southeast of the launch site on Friday as it lies in the predicted area where the rocket boosters will fall after they separate, according to the local official. “The mouth of the Umalta, Ussamakh, Lepikan, Tastakh, Saganar rivers and the area of the ferry crossing on the Bureya River fall into the predicted (booster) fall zone,” said Alexei Maslov, head of the Verkhnebureinsky district in the Khabarovsk region, on messaging app, Telegram. ALSO READ | Chinese space agency reveals Beijing gifted Russia, France lunar soil. Here's why He added, “The residents of Shakhtinsky will be evacuated.” About the Russian lunar mission According to the Russian space agency, the spacecraft will be launched from the Vostochny Cosmodrome which is around 5,550 kilometres east of Moscow. Luna-25 will launch on a Soyuz-2 Fregat booster and will be the first lander to arrive on the South Pole of the moon, Roscosmos has said. The objective of the recent moon mission is the development of soft-landing technologies, research of the internal structure of the Moon and exploration for resources, including water, said the Russian space agency. ALSO WATCH | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Europe cancels joint moon missions with Russia “It is planned that the device will be the first in the world to carry out a soft landing on the surface of the moon in the south pole region and conduct contact studies of the lunar soil for the presence of ice at the landing site,” said the Russian aerospace company, last month. The lander is expected to operate on the lunar surface for one year. (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.

Russia to evacuate village ahead of first lunar mission launch in 50 years: Here's why

Russia's use of its food export giant position as a political weapon is evidence that Moscow is exploiting international divisions over sanctions. Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin said in a televised address that Moscow may reduce customs on commodities exports such as grain and fertilisers to "friendly" nations.

Russia to offer cheaper grain to allies | World Business Watch

The tensions simmer around Poland and Lithuania as leaders of the two Nations held an urgent meeting on Thursday to discuss provocations from Russia.

NATO leaders on high alert, reinforce borders

Iran's foreign minister called out the West asking them to stop supplying weapons to Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia the comments were made during a press conference.

Iran FM: Concerning that US, western nations keep arming Ukraine

Many of the thousands of Ukrainians who came to Britain when Vladimir Putin invaded their nation may have to leave the country in two years. The Home Office introduced two distinct programs, Homes for Ukraine and Ukraine Family, weeks after the start of the crisis. Both programs offer three-year visas to Ukrainians relocating outside of their country.

Ukrainian refugees risk eviction from UK after their visas expire in 2025

On Wednesday, Russia attacked Ukraine's main inland port which is the main alternative route for Ukrainian grain exports since Russia pulled out from the Black Sea deal last month. The Russian drone attack has caused severe destruction at the Port.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russia attacks main route for Ukranian exports since grain deal

The first European nation to do so, Iceland, announced on Tuesday that it has halted operations at its embassy in Moscow due to "all-time low" levels of business, cultural, and political ties between the two countries.

Iceland suspends embassy operations in Russia

A game of drones has begun between Russia and Ukraine. Drones have hit a building in Moscow's business district for the second time in three days. Are drones the face of Ukraine's counter-offensive? Is Russia ill-prepared for Ukraine's drone warfare?

Gravitas: The Game of Drones: Ukraine strikes Moscow again, same building hit for the second time

A drone hit a commercial building in Moscow. This drone struck over the weekend while at least one other drone was downed while other hostile drones have reached the heart of the Russian capital.

Russia-Ukraine war: Amid war, hostile drones reaching the heart of Russian capital

Here, we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Russian anti-aircraft units down multiple drones targeting Moscow but one drone struck the same high-rise tower that was hit last week.

Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv drones target Moscow

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'

Hours before the opening of a significant military parade that President Vladimir Putin would be attending, Russian officials claim to have shot down three Ukrainian drones that were attacking Moscow early on Sunday. Images from the crash site in Moscow revealed a skyscraper's façade damaged on one floor, with broken glass and bent and cracked structural beams.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian capital's business district targeted, no injuries reported

<p>Ukraine undertook drone strikes on Moscow yet again, hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin hinted at reconciliation. On Sunday (July 30), two office blocks were damaged in a night-time attack in the capital city. In other news, former US president Donald Trump's $475 million defamation lawsuit against CNN has been quashed by a US District judge that he had nominated in 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on headlines to read more:&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-claims-russia-does-not-reject-peace-talks-amid-ukrainian-drone-attack-on-moscow-city-620699"><strong>Putin claims Russia does not reject peace talks amid Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow City</strong></a></p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday (July 29) said that an initiative by African countries could be a basis for peace with Ukraine but the attacks by Ukrainian forces made it hard to realise, hours before a Ukrainian drone attack took place on Moscow.</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/30/370247-untitled-design-2023-07-30t081900249.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-475-million-big-lie-lawsuit-against-cnn-quashed-by-us-court-620706"><strong>Trump's $475 million 'Big Lie' lawsuit against CNN quashed by US court</strong></a></p>

<p>A US federal judge has quashed the $475 million defamation lawsuit by former US president Donald Trump against CNN for allegedly likening him to Adolf Hitler.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/18/367959-trump.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protests-mount-in-israel-as-army-reservists-threaten-to-refuse-duty-620697"><strong>Protests mount in Israel as army reservists threaten to refuse duty</strong></a></p>

<p>Days after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pushed through a new legislation that curbs judicial review by the country's apex court of some government decisions, the protesters continue to ramp up the pressure. On Saturday night, tens of thousands of flag-waving Israelis took to the streets and renewed their protests against the unpopular reforms</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/30/348631-he-could-be-anywhere-now-san-jacinto-county-sheriff-greg-capers-said-during-a-press-conference-2.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-accused-of-infiltrating-us-defence-system-with-ticking-time-bomb-malware-620704"><strong>China accused of infiltrating US defence system with 'ticking time bomb' malware</strong></a></p>

<p>The US officials are currently searching for Chinese malware hidden within country's defence systems, which could potentially disrupt military communications and resupply operations, New York Times reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/30/370249-untitled-design-2023-07-30t083800235.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/superconductor-breakthrough-why-our-lives-may-never-be-the-same-again-620687"><strong>Superconductor Breakthrough: Why our lives may never be the same again?</strong></a></p>

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Ukraine undertook drone strikes on Moscow yet again, hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin hinted at reconciliation. On Sunday (July 30), two office blocks were damaged in a night-time attack in the capital city.

Ukraine undertook drone strikes on Moscow yet again, hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin hinted at reconciliation. On Sunday (July 30), two office blocks were damaged in a night-time attack in the capital city. In other news, former US president Donald Trump's $475 million defamation lawsuit against CNN has been quashed by a US District judge that he had nominated in 2019. Click on headlines to read more: Putin claims Russia does not reject peace talks amid Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow City Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday (July 29) said that an initiative by African countries could be a basis for peace with Ukraine but the attacks by Ukrainian forces made it hard to realise, hours before a Ukrainian drone attack took place on Moscow. Trump's $475 million 'Big Lie' lawsuit against CNN quashed by US court A US federal judge has quashed the $475 million defamation lawsuit by former US president Donald Trump against CNN for allegedly likening him to Adolf Hitler. Protests mount in Israel as army reservists threaten to refuse duty Days after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pushed through a new legislation that curbs judicial review by the country's apex court of some government decisions, the protesters continue to ramp up the pressure. On Saturday night, tens of thousands of flag-waving Israelis took to the streets and renewed their protests against the unpopular reforms China accused of infiltrating US defence system with 'ticking time bomb' malware The US officials are currently searching for Chinese malware hidden within country's defence systems, which could potentially disrupt military communications and resupply operations, New York Times reported. Superconductor Breakthrough: Why our lives may never be the same again? ×

Morning brief: Drone attack in Moscow, Trump's CNN lawsuit quashed, and more

<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>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday (July 29) said that an initiative by African countries could be a basis for peace with Ukraine but the attacks by Ukrainian forces made it hard to realise, hours before a Ukrainian drone attack took place on Moscow.<br />
<br />
Putin was addressing a press conference after holding a meeting with African leaders in St Petersburg and listening to their calls for Moscow to take steps and go ahead with their plan. "There are provisions of this peace initiative that are being implemented. But there are things that are difficult or impossible to implement,” he said.<br />
<br />
Putin stated that the ceasefire was one of the points in the African initiative. "But the Ukrainian army is on the offensive, they are attacking, they are implementing a large-scale strategic offensive operation... We cannot cease fire when we are under attack,” he said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-attacks-are-intensifying-claims-putin-620046">Ukraine intensifying attacks on frontline, Russian forces inflicted heavy losses, claims Putin</a></p>

<p>Answering the question of initiating peace talks, Putin said, "We did not reject them... In order for this process to begin, there needs to be agreement on both sides."</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow</strong></h2>

<p>Two office blocks were damaged and one person was injured in a night-time Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow, said the mayor of the Russian capital early on Sunday (July 30), adding that no one suffered injuries. "Ukrainian drones attacked tonight. The facades of two city office towers were slightly damaged. There are no victims or injured," posted Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin on Telegram.<br />
<br />
"The glazing was shattered as a result of the blast at the level of fifth and sixth floors of the 50-story building on Presnenskaya embankment," an official said, as reported by TASS.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Footage of a drone explosion over a skyscraper in Moscow City <a href="https://t.co/aVC1auiOvz">pic.twitter.com/aVC1auiOvz</a></p>
— Spriter Team (@SpriterTeam) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpriterTeam/status/1685465081662803968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Russia's defence ministry, confirming that three Ukrainian drones were downed by them,&nbsp;said on Telegram, "The Kyiv regime's attempted terrorist attack with unmanned aerial vehicles on objects in the city of Moscow was thwarted,"&nbsp;adding that one was shot down and two, "suppressed by electronic warfare", crashed into a building complex.</p>

<p>Moscow's Vnukovo International Airport was shut down to traffic on Sunday, a Russian state news agency report said. "The capital's Vnukovo airport is closed for departures and arrivals, flights are redirected to other airports. This was reported by the aviation services,” TASS reported.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Africa summit: Putin promises free grain to African nations</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, on the Ukrainian side, one civilian was killed in a Russian missile attack on Saturday (July 29) in the northeast Ukrainian city of Sumy, informed the national police, further stating that five people were injured in the strike on an education centre.<br />
<br />
"On the evening of July 29, an enemy missile hit an educational institution. Law enforcement officers are working at the scene, recording the effects," the force shared on Telegram, confirming the initial toll as "at least one civilian dead and five injured". "Police, rescue workers and medics are on the scene", it stated.</p>

<h2><strong>Saudi invites developing nations for Ukraine peace talks</strong></h2>

<p>The leading developing nations have been invited by Saudi Arabia to hold the meeting in a bid to win their backing for Ukraine peace talks. Senior government officials from China, Brazil, South Africa and India have been invited for talks in Jeddah which will be held for two days.<br />
<br />
The meeting will aim at persuading countries from South America, Africa and south-east Asia to support the Ukrainian peace plan&nbsp;which calls for an end to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war by letting Kyiv reclaim&nbsp;its territory occupied by Russian troops.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday (July 29) said that an initiative by African countries could be a basis for peace with Ukraine but the attacks by Ukrainian forces made it hard to realise, hours before a Ukrainian drone attack took place on Moscow. Putin was addressing a press conference after holding a meeting with African leaders in St Petersburg and listening to their calls for Moscow to take steps and go ahead with their plan. "There are provisions of this peace initiative that are being implemented. But there are things that are difficult or impossible to implement,” he said. Putin stated that the ceasefire was one of the points in the African initiative. "But the Ukrainian army is on the offensive, they are attacking, they are implementing a large-scale strategic offensive operation... We cannot cease fire when we are under attack,” he said. ALSO READ | Ukraine intensifying attacks on frontline, Russian forces inflicted heavy losses, claims Putin Answering the question of initiating peace talks, Putin said, "We did not reject them... In order for this process to begin, there needs to be agreement on both sides." Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow Two office blocks were damaged and one person was injured in a night-time Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow, said the mayor of the Russian capital early on Sunday (July 30), adding that no one suffered injuries. "Ukrainian drones attacked tonight. The facades of two city office towers were slightly damaged. There are no victims or injured," posted Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin on Telegram. "The glazing was shattered as a result of the blast at the level of fifth and sixth floors of the 50-story building on Presnenskaya embankment," an official said, as reported by TASS. Footage of a drone explosion over a skyscraper in Moscow City pic.twitter.com/aVC1auiOvz — Spriter Team (@SpriterTeam) July 30, 2023 × Russia's defence ministry, confirming that three Ukrainian drones were downed by them, said on Telegram, "The Kyiv regime's attempted terrorist attack with unmanned aerial vehicles on objects in the city of Moscow was thwarted," adding that one was shot down and two, "suppressed by electronic warfare", crashed into a building complex. Moscow's Vnukovo International Airport was shut down to traffic on Sunday, a Russian state news agency report said. "The capital's Vnukovo airport is closed for departures and arrivals, flights are redirected to other airports. This was reported by the aviation services,” TASS reported. WATCH | Russia-Africa summit: Putin promises free grain to African nations Meanwhile, on the Ukrainian side, one civilian was killed in a Russian missile attack on Saturday (July 29) in the northeast Ukrainian city of Sumy, informed the national police, further stating that five people were injured in the strike on an education centre. "On the evening of July 29, an enemy missile hit an educational institution. Law enforcement officers are working at the scene, recording the effects," the force shared on Telegram, confirming the initial toll as "at least one civilian dead and five injured". "Police, rescue workers and medics are on the scene", it stated. Saudi invites developing nations for Ukraine peace talks The leading developing nations have been invited by Saudi Arabia to hold the meeting in a bid to win their backing for Ukraine peace talks. Senior government officials from China, Brazil, South Africa and India have been invited for talks in Jeddah which will be held for two days. The meeting will aim at persuading countries from South America, Africa and south-east Asia to support the Ukrainian peace plan which calls for an end to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war by letting Kyiv reclaim its territory occupied by Russian troops. (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

Amid Ukrainian drone attack in Moscow, Putin claims Russia is not against peace talks

<p>The ongoing escalation between Russia and Ukraine appears to have intensified. Moscow Mayor&nbsp;Sergei Sobyanin in the early hours of Monday (July 24) claimed that "drone strikes" hit two&nbsp;"non-residential buildings" in the Russian capital at night.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today around 4 am (0100 GMT), drone strikes on two non-residential buildings were reported. There is no serious destruction or casualties."&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Russian news agency TASS, one of the drones fell in Komsomolsky Prospekt, close to Russia's defence ministry while another&nbsp;hit a business centre on Likhacheva Street, near one of the main ring roads.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The defence ministry released a statement in the aftermath and said it had "suppressed" the two Ukrainian drones, adding that it was a "terrorist act" on the Russian capital by Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A Kyiv regime attempt to carry out a terrorist act using two drones on objects on the territory of the city of Moscow was stopped," Russia's defence ministry said. "Two Ukrainian drones were suppressed and crashed. There are no casualties."</p>

<p>A video of the business centre was posted by RIA Novosti which showed visible damage to the top of the multi-storey building. As a precautionary measure, the authorities sealed the road around it.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-budget-drones-in-ukraine-are-redefining-warfare-616102"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Budget drones in Ukraine are redefining warfare&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Previous instances of drone attacks&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>This is not the first instance when Russia has accused Ukraine of targetting the capital city using drones. In May, Kremlin claimed it was&nbsp;attacked by Ukrainian drones&nbsp;which it deemed&nbsp;was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the time, Kremlin described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and an "assassination attempt on the president of Russia".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Tonight, the Kyiv regime attempted a drone strike on the Kremlin residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Two drones were aimed at the Kremlin," the press service said in a statement.</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>"We regard these actions as a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the life of the president of the Russian Federation, carried out on the eve of Victory Day, the May 9 parade," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similarly, earlier this month, Moscow claimed that it shot down&nbsp;five Ukrainian drones that disrupted the functioning at the Vnukovo international airport.</p>

<p><strong><em>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.</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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The ongoing escalation between Russia and Ukraine appears to have intensified. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin in the early hours of Monday (July 24) claimed that "drone strikes" hit two "non-residential buildings" in the Russian capital at night.

The ongoing escalation between Russia and Ukraine appears to have intensified. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin in the early hours of Monday (July 24) claimed that "drone strikes" hit two "non-residential buildings" in the Russian capital at night. "Today around 4 am (0100 GMT), drone strikes on two non-residential buildings were reported. There is no serious destruction or casualties." According to Russian news agency TASS, one of the drones fell in Komsomolsky Prospekt, close to Russia's defence ministry while another hit a business centre on Likhacheva Street, near one of the main ring roads. The defence ministry released a statement in the aftermath and said it had "suppressed" the two Ukrainian drones, adding that it was a "terrorist act" on the Russian capital by Kyiv. "A Kyiv regime attempt to carry out a terrorist act using two drones on objects on the territory of the city of Moscow was stopped," Russia's defence ministry said. "Two Ukrainian drones were suppressed and crashed. There are no casualties." A video of the business centre was posted by RIA Novosti which showed visible damage to the top of the multi-storey building. As a precautionary measure, the authorities sealed the road around it. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Budget drones in Ukraine are redefining warfare × Previous instances of drone attacks This is not the first instance when Russia has accused Ukraine of targetting the capital city using drones. In May, Kremlin claimed it was attacked by Ukrainian drones which it deemed was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life. At the time, Kremlin described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and an "assassination attempt on the president of Russia". "Tonight, the Kyiv regime attempted a drone strike on the Kremlin residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Two drones were aimed at the Kremlin," the press service said in a statement. Also read | Did Ukrainian drones allegedly target luxury homes of Putin's ex-wife and daughters? "We regard these actions as a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the life of the president of the Russian Federation, carried out on the eve of Victory Day, the May 9 parade," it added. Similarly, earlier this month, Moscow claimed that it shot down five Ukrainian drones that disrupted the functioning at the Vnukovo international airport. 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:

Drone strikes hit two buildings in Moscow, Russia calls it a 'terrorist act'

<p>At least four people were killed and several others injured on Saturday (July 22) after a hot water pipe burst at a shopping mall in western Moscow, the city's mayor said.</p>

<p>Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said some of those injured had suffered burns, and that emergency services were working on the scene.</p>

<p>Video footage showed flooding throughout the building and steam flowing out of a doorway.</p>

<p>The mall, known as Vremena Goda (The Seasons), opened in 2007 and houses over 150 stores.</p>

<p>"We are providing medical assistance to all the victims," Sobyanin said.</p>


At least four people were killed and several others injured on Saturday (July 22) after a hot water pipe burst at a shopping mall in western Moscow, the city's mayor said.

At least four people were killed and several others injured on Saturday (July 22) after a hot water pipe burst at a shopping mall in western Moscow, the city's mayor said. Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said some of those injured had suffered burns, and that emergency services were working on the scene. Video footage showed flooding throughout the building and steam flowing out of a doorway. The mall, known as Vremena Goda (The Seasons), opened in 2007 and houses over 150 stores. "We are providing medical assistance to all the victims," Sobyanin said.

Russia: At least four killed at Moscow mall after hot water pipe bursts

Russia has once more brought charges of inciting extremism against a well-known Kremlin opponent who questioned the war's success. The arrest is a part of the Kremlin's crackdown on anyone who criticise President Vladimir Putin and other high-ranking officials. Igor Girkin has been recognised as this hardline nationalist.

Moscow detains former member of state security service

<p>Russia has raised the maximum conscription age for compulsory military service to 30 from 27, but has kept the lower limit to 18. This move will now increase the number of young men who will be taking up compulsory military service of one-year. The decision comes after lawmakers dismissed a proposal to raise the starting age for military service to 21, which was at 18 before as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>State Duma Defence Committee Chairman Andrey Kartapolov told media personnel on Friday that the conscription age bracket now will be from 18 to 30 years.&nbsp;"The key amendment is that the upper age ceiling [in the conscription age bracket] will be set at 30 years old, while the decision was made to leave the lower age limit at 18, as there are many young people who would like to enlist for military service at the age of 18, and that opportunity is currently available to them," the senior Russian lawmaker said during the second reading of the bill in the lower house of Russia’s parliament, reported Moscow Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorist-threatens-to-target-indias-foreign-minister-jaishankar-home-minister-amit-shah-618078">Terrorist threatens to target India's foreign minister Jaishankar, home minister Amit Shah</a></p>

<p>During the first reading last month, the bill sought to raise the lower age limit for men to be called up for compulsory military service from 18 to 21 years old. However, it was kept to 18 years after the second reading.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These new rules will come into effect on 1st January 2024 if the bill is enacted into law. Media reports quoting Kartapolov&nbsp;also said that the changes will not have any impact on new troops who will be called up this fall.</p>

<h2><strong>Timeline of the bill&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In March, the bill was submitted by a coalition of lawmakers led by Kartapolov. Duma, the lower house of the Russian parliament&nbsp;passed the bill in the first reading at the time.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manipur-women-paraded-naked-was-spontaneous-act-say-authorities-618069">Manipur women paraded naked was 'spontaneous act', say authorities</a></p>

<p>The bill, in its original shape, had proposed a phased increase in the compulsory conscription age bracket. As per that, the bill first sought to keep the bracket at 19-30 years old in 2024, then to 20-30 years old in 2025, and then to 21-30 years old in 2026.</p>

<h2><strong>Duration of&nbsp;compulsory military service</strong></h2>

<p>Kartapolov, while speaking to media personnel, said that the time duration of compulsory military service in Russia will be kept at one year. He said there is no need for conscripts to serve for two years. "There is absolutely no need to serve for two years. Currently, in our country, a contemporary youth is capable of mastering any military specialization in six months maximum," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At present, all men in Russia are obligated to serve in the military. Alternatively, they can undergo equivalent training while pursuing higher education.</p>

<h2><strong>Controversies surrounding military service</strong></h2>

<p>Military service has been a sensitive topic in Russia, leading many individuals to take extreme measures to evade conscription during the call-up periods.</p>

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<p>Concerns escalated when some conscripts were deployed to participate in Russia's war in Ukraine, despite prior assurances to the contrary.</p>

<p>Additionally, the unexpected mobilisation of 300,000 men for a "special military operation" last autumn further fueled public criticism and prompted numerous people to flee the country to avoid being sent to fight.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia's efforts to strengthen its military</strong></h2>

<p>To bolster its military capabilities, Russia announced plans to increase its professional and conscripted combat personnel by over 30% to reach a total of 1.5 million. However, the country faced challenges due to undisclosed casualties in the ongoing war.</p>

<p>In a move to make avoiding military service more difficult, legislation was passed in April allowing conscription papers to be served online. Furthermore, last Tuesday, Russian parliament extended the maximum age at which men who completed compulsory service can be mobilised. The age limit was raised to 55 for some junior ranks and up to 70 for the most senior officers.</p>

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Russia has raised the maximum conscription age for compulsory military service to 30 from 27, but has kept the lower limit to 18. This move will now increase the number of young men who will be taking up compulsory military service of one-year.

Russia has raised the maximum conscription age for compulsory military service to 30 from 27, but has kept the lower limit to 18. This move will now increase the number of young men who will be taking up compulsory military service of one-year. The decision comes after lawmakers dismissed a proposal to raise the starting age for military service to 21, which was at 18 before as well. State Duma Defence Committee Chairman Andrey Kartapolov told media personnel on Friday that the conscription age bracket now will be from 18 to 30 years. "The key amendment is that the upper age ceiling [in the conscription age bracket] will be set at 30 years old, while the decision was made to leave the lower age limit at 18, as there are many young people who would like to enlist for military service at the age of 18, and that opportunity is currently available to them," the senior Russian lawmaker said during the second reading of the bill in the lower house of Russia’s parliament, reported Moscow Times. Also Read | Terrorist threatens to target India's foreign minister Jaishankar, home minister Amit Shah During the first reading last month, the bill sought to raise the lower age limit for men to be called up for compulsory military service from 18 to 21 years old. However, it was kept to 18 years after the second reading. These new rules will come into effect on 1st January 2024 if the bill is enacted into law. Media reports quoting Kartapolov also said that the changes will not have any impact on new troops who will be called up this fall. Timeline of the bill In March, the bill was submitted by a coalition of lawmakers led by Kartapolov. Duma, the lower house of the Russian parliament passed the bill in the first reading at the time. Also Read | Manipur women paraded naked was 'spontaneous act', say authorities The bill, in its original shape, had proposed a phased increase in the compulsory conscription age bracket. As per that, the bill first sought to keep the bracket at 19-30 years old in 2024, then to 20-30 years old in 2025, and then to 21-30 years old in 2026. Duration of compulsory military service Kartapolov, while speaking to media personnel, said that the time duration of compulsory military service in Russia will be kept at one year. He said there is no need for conscripts to serve for two years. "There is absolutely no need to serve for two years. Currently, in our country, a contemporary youth is capable of mastering any military specialization in six months maximum," he said. At present, all men in Russia are obligated to serve in the military. Alternatively, they can undergo equivalent training while pursuing higher education. Controversies surrounding military service Military service has been a sensitive topic in Russia, leading many individuals to take extreme measures to evade conscription during the call-up periods. Watch | Rainfall in India and Pakistan × Concerns escalated when some conscripts were deployed to participate in Russia's war in Ukraine, despite prior assurances to the contrary. Additionally, the unexpected mobilisation of 300,000 men for a "special military operation" last autumn further fueled public criticism and prompted numerous people to flee the country to avoid being sent to fight. Russia's efforts to strengthen its military To bolster its military capabilities, Russia announced plans to increase its professional and conscripted combat personnel by over 30% to reach a total of 1.5 million. However, the country faced challenges due to undisclosed casualties in the ongoing war. In a move to make avoiding military service more difficult, legislation was passed in April allowing conscription papers to be served online. Furthermore, last Tuesday, Russian parliament extended the maximum age at which men who completed compulsory service can be mobilised. The age limit was raised to 55 for some junior ranks and up to 70 for the most senior officers. 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. ×

Russia raises upper conscription age to 30 from 27, keeps lower limit at 18

<p>Worsening the relations, Kremlin on Thursday announced restrictions on the movement of British diplomats working in Russia. Moscow said the British workers&nbsp;will have to notify authorities about their movements in advance, according to an AFP report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian foreign ministry summoned&nbsp;Britain's charge d'affaires Tom Dodd and informed&nbsp;him of a "notification procedure for the movement of employees of British diplomatic missions".</p>

<p>The procedure will be imposed on&nbsp;"accredited personnel" of the British embassy in Moscow and the consulate general in Yekaterinburg, in the Urals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The diplomats will need to provide information of at least&nbsp;five working days of travel outside the "120-kilometre (75-mile) free movement zone". Additionally, the information provided should contain "the timings, purpose, type of trip, planned business contacts, accompanying persons, mode of transport, places of visit and accommodation as well as the route of the trip".</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-kyiv-used-missiles-from-uk-to-attack-luhansk-says-russia-592157"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Ukraine war: Kyiv used missiles from UK to attack Luhansk, claims Russia</strong></a></p>

<p>Moscow defended the decision saying it was introduced to counter the&nbsp;"hostile actions" of London, a key ally of Ukraine. It added the caveat that measures will not apply to the British ambassador and several other diplomats.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Britain continues to impose sanctions&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in the day, the British government imposed sanctions on&nbsp;13 individuals and businesses in the Central African Republic, Mali and Sudan that had alleged links to Russia's now-disbanded&nbsp;Wagner Group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Wherever Wagner operates, it has a catastrophic effect on communities, worsens existing conflicts and damages the reputations of countries that host them," said Britain's minister for Development and Africa Andrew Mitchell.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-war-exposes-the-weaknesses-in-uk-military-617070"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine war exposes the weaknesses in UK military</strong></a></p>

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<p>On Monday (July 17), Russian Education Minister&nbsp;Sergey Kravtsov was also placed on the sanctions list by the Rishi Sunak administration for hatching the forced deportation of Ukrainian children programme. Overall, 13 new sanctions were imposed, in response to&nbsp;"Russia's attempts to destroy Ukrainian national identity".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In his chilling programme of forced child deportation, and the hate-filled propaganda spewed by his lackeys, we see (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's true intention - to wipe Ukraine from the map," said British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this month, Moscow informed it had brought over 700,00 children from the conflict zones in Ukraine into Russian territory for protection. However, the Western world reacted sharply to the announcement saying Russia was sending these kids to "re-education camps" where they were being exposed to&nbsp;Russia-centric academic, cultural, patriotic, and military education.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Worsening the relations, Kremlin on Thursday announced restrictions on the movement of British diplomats working in Russia. Moscow said the British workers will have to notify authorities about their movements in advance, according to an AFP report.

Worsening the relations, Kremlin on Thursday announced restrictions on the movement of British diplomats working in Russia. Moscow said the British workers will have to notify authorities about their movements in advance, according to an AFP report. The Russian foreign ministry summoned Britain's charge d'affaires Tom Dodd and informed him of a "notification procedure for the movement of employees of British diplomatic missions". The procedure will be imposed on "accredited personnel" of the British embassy in Moscow and the consulate general in Yekaterinburg, in the Urals. The diplomats will need to provide information of at least five working days of travel outside the "120-kilometre (75-mile) free movement zone". Additionally, the information provided should contain "the timings, purpose, type of trip, planned business contacts, accompanying persons, mode of transport, places of visit and accommodation as well as the route of the trip". Also read | Ukraine war: Kyiv used missiles from UK to attack Luhansk, claims Russia Moscow defended the decision saying it was introduced to counter the "hostile actions" of London, a key ally of Ukraine. It added the caveat that measures will not apply to the British ambassador and several other diplomats. Britain continues to impose sanctions Earlier in the day, the British government imposed sanctions on 13 individuals and businesses in the Central African Republic, Mali and Sudan that had alleged links to Russia's now-disbanded Wagner Group. "Wherever Wagner operates, it has a catastrophic effect on communities, worsens existing conflicts and damages the reputations of countries that host them," said Britain's minister for Development and Africa Andrew Mitchell. Watch | Ukraine war exposes the weaknesses in UK military × On Monday (July 17), Russian Education Minister Sergey Kravtsov was also placed on the sanctions list by the Rishi Sunak administration for hatching the forced deportation of Ukrainian children programme. Overall, 13 new sanctions were imposed, in response to "Russia's attempts to destroy Ukrainian national identity". "In his chilling programme of forced child deportation, and the hate-filled propaganda spewed by his lackeys, we see (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's true intention - to wipe Ukraine from the map," said British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly. Earlier this month, Moscow informed it had brought over 700,00 children from the conflict zones in Ukraine into Russian territory for protection. However, the Western world reacted sharply to the announcement saying Russia was sending these kids to "re-education camps" where they were being exposed to Russia-centric academic, cultural, patriotic, and military education. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Moscow restricts movement of British diplomats in Russia. Know why

Cargo ships travelling to Ukraine can now become targets of Russian strikes. Moscow has warned from now on such vessels will be considered potential carriers of military cargo. This warning came in one day after it exited from the landmark black sea grain deal.

US says Moscow planning to attack ships, pass blame on Ukraine

Hope for Sweden’s imminent entry into the NATO security alliance began to fade on Monday when Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan introduced a last-minute hurdle by linking his approval of the Nordic country’s bid to Turkey’s long-sought accession to the European Union. But just hours later, he made a surprise U-turn by dropping his opposition, paving the way for NATO to expand its fortification against a belligerent Russia as Moscow fights a war in Ukraine. But what caused this sudden change of heart in Turkiye?

Explained - Why Turkiye agreed to approve Sweden's NATO bid

<p>The United States has accused Russia of "an act of utter cruelty" after Moscow used its veto power at the UN Security Council&nbsp;to block a nine-month&nbsp;renewal of a cross-border aid deal designed to help people living in rebel-held north-west Syria.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The original deal, first brokered in 2014 to supply aid from Turkey into&nbsp;rebel-held areas of Syria's northwest Idlib Province via the Bab al-Hawa crossing, expired on Monday (July 10). The region is&nbsp;the last stronghold of the jihadist groups and Turkish-backed rebel factions.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia, considered an ally of the Syrian government, vetoed the proposal to extend the deal for a nine-month period. Despite 13 of the 15 council members voting for the extension, Moscow had its way.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Afterwards, Russia was only able to win support from trusted ally China, another permanent Security Council member, for a six-month extension.</p>

<p>“It’s a sad moment for the Syrian people.&nbsp;What we have just witnessed, what the world has just witnessed, was an act of utter cruelty," said&nbsp;Linda Thomas-Greenfield,&nbsp;the US ambassador to the UN.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Russia owns this failure. And it’s up to them to come to the negotiating table in good faith. The United States will continue to work with all Council members to renew the cross-border mechanism," she added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tense-russia-us-encounter-over-the-skies-of-eastern-syria-613153"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Tense Russia-US encounter over the skies of Eastern Syria</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Why Moscow wants to gut the deal&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>For years, Moscow has attempted to gut the deal. It argues that the deal 'disregards' the will of the Syrian people.&nbsp;Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has been ferociously against the deliveries saying it is a violation of&nbsp;sovereignty as Damascus never approved of them.</p>

<p>Notably, hundreds of trucks, lorries and other forms of transport pass through&nbsp;Bab al-Hawa to provide aid to 2.7 million civilians, who rely on it for food, shelter and healthcare.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The decision to pull the plug could not have come at a worse time. The region is still reeling from the devastating effects of the earthquake that struck in February, earlier this year, More than 4,500 people were killed while over 50,000 families were displaced.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/turkey-syria-earthquake-aftermath-survivors-experience-crush-syndrome-what-is-it-569345"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Turkey-Syria earthquake aftermath: Survivors experience ‘crush syndrome’. What is it?</strong></a></p>

<p>Although two more crossings were opened in the aftermath of the earthquake, the&nbsp;Bab al-Hawa crossing was responsible was nearly 80 per cent of the aid reaching the troubled area. The two crossings that remain open are scheduled to close in a little over one month's time which could doom for the people living there.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The United States has accused Russia of "an act of utter cruelty" after Moscow used its veto power at the UN Security Council to block a nine-month renewal of a cross-border aid deal designed to help people living in rebel-held north-west Syria.

The United States has accused Russia of "an act of utter cruelty" after Moscow used its veto power at the UN Security Council to block a nine-month renewal of a cross-border aid deal designed to help people living in rebel-held north-west Syria. The original deal, first brokered in 2014 to supply aid from Turkey into rebel-held areas of Syria's northwest Idlib Province via the Bab al-Hawa crossing, expired on Monday (July 10). The region is the last stronghold of the jihadist groups and Turkish-backed rebel factions. Russia, considered an ally of the Syrian government, vetoed the proposal to extend the deal for a nine-month period. Despite 13 of the 15 council members voting for the extension, Moscow had its way. Afterwards, Russia was only able to win support from trusted ally China, another permanent Security Council member, for a six-month extension. “It’s a sad moment for the Syrian people. What we have just witnessed, what the world has just witnessed, was an act of utter cruelty," said Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US ambassador to the UN. "Russia owns this failure. And it’s up to them to come to the negotiating table in good faith. The United States will continue to work with all Council members to renew the cross-border mechanism," she added. WATCH | Tense Russia-US encounter over the skies of Eastern Syria × Why Moscow wants to gut the deal For years, Moscow has attempted to gut the deal. It argues that the deal 'disregards' the will of the Syrian people. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has been ferociously against the deliveries saying it is a violation of sovereignty as Damascus never approved of them. Notably, hundreds of trucks, lorries and other forms of transport pass through Bab al-Hawa to provide aid to 2.7 million civilians, who rely on it for food, shelter and healthcare. The decision to pull the plug could not have come at a worse time. The region is still reeling from the devastating effects of the earthquake that struck in February, earlier this year, More than 4,500 people were killed while over 50,000 families were displaced. Also read | Turkey-Syria earthquake aftermath: Survivors experience ‘crush syndrome’. What is it? Although two more crossings were opened in the aftermath of the earthquake, the Bab al-Hawa crossing was responsible was nearly 80 per cent of the aid reaching the troubled area. The two crossings that remain open are scheduled to close in a little over one month's time which could doom for the people living there. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia blocks delivery of aid to rebel-held regions of Syria after vetoing UN vote

Russia vetoed the United Nations security council's aid work in rebel-held areas of Syria. This comes at a time when the aid services to the conflicted region were due for renewal.

Deadly earthquake prompted Syria to open routes for aid work

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky brought back five former commanders of Ukraine's garrison in Mariupol from Turkey on Saturday, which was seen as a highly symbolic achievement that Russia called&nbsp;a violation of the prisoner exchange deal which was engineered last year.</p>

<p>The release was immediately denounced by Russia. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, that&nbsp;according to the exchange agreement, Ankara had promised to keep the men in Turkey and charged the nation with not informing Moscow.</p>

<p>Zelensky had visited Snake Island, a Black Sea outcrop which was seized by Russian forces on the day of the invasion and later abandoned, to mark the 500th day of the war.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-putin-forces-hint-at-fresh-attacks-in-russia-say-they-have-ambitious-plans-613522">Anti-Putin forces hint at fresh attacks in Russia, say they have 'ambitious plans'</a></p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian commanders vow to return to&nbsp;battlefield </strong></h2>

<p>The five commanders, who were returned to Ukraine, had led a fierce three-month defence of Mariupol from the Azovstal Steel last year, which was the biggest city captured by Russia.<br />
<br />
"We are returning home from Turkey and bringing our heroes home,” Zelensky said, after meeting Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan in Istanbul on Friday.</p>

<p>Ukrainian commanders, meanwhile, vowed to go back&nbsp;to the battlefield after&nbsp;the prisoner swap. Commander of Azov regiment Denys Prokopenko said,&nbsp;“The most important thing for today is that the Ukrainian army has seized the strategic initiative on the front line and is moving forward every day.”</p>

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_12C3D484-127D-6E95-AB6B-389D0373E873@published">“We are paraplegics with sparkling eyes, with a strong soul and a weak will. Eagle wings are growing behind our backs but we were shackled to the Turkish soil. We will continue to do our job. We are military men. We took an oath,” Palamar added.</p>

<p>Thousands of civilians lost their lives in Mariupol when Russian forces seized the city in the initial months of the war. The Ukrainian defenders held out in bunkers and tunnels under the Azovstal plant, till the unit was finally given an order to surrender by Kyiv in May last year.</p>

<h2><strong>Exchange agreement violated</strong></h2>

<p>Some of them were freed by Moscow in September in a prisoner swap which was brokered by Ankara under the terms which required the commanders to remain in Turkey till the Russia-Ukraine war ended.<br />
<br />
Speaking to Russia's RIA news agency, Peskov said, "No one informed us about this. According to the agreements, these ringleaders were to remain on the territory of Turkey until the end of the conflict."<br />
<br />
Peskov stated that the release of men took place due to heavy pressure that Turkey was facing from NATO allies ahead of the summit of the military alliance next week at which Ukraine hopes to get a positive sign about its future membership.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Kyiv: Russian attack kills 8, injures 13 in Lyman in Eastern Ukraine | Russia-Ukraine War</strong></p>

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<p>Zelensky, during a ceremony in the western city of Lviv, thanked Erdogan for helping secure their release and promised to bring home all remaining prisoners.<br />
<br />
He said that before the war started, "many people in the world still did not understand what we are, what you are, what to expect from us and what our heroes are. Now everyone understands."<br />
<br />
The return of the men was hailed by many Ukrainians. "Finally! The best news ever. Congratulations to our brothers!" said Major Maksym Zhorin, who is fighting in eastern Ukraine on the Telegram messaging app.</p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky brought back five former commanders of Ukraine's garrison in Mariupol from Turkey on Saturday, which was seen as a highly symbolic achievement that Russia called a violation of the prisoner exchange deal which was engineered last year.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky brought back five former commanders of Ukraine's garrison in Mariupol from Turkey on Saturday, which was seen as a highly symbolic achievement that Russia called a violation of the prisoner exchange deal which was engineered last year. The release was immediately denounced by Russia. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, that according to the exchange agreement, Ankara had promised to keep the men in Turkey and charged the nation with not informing Moscow. Zelensky had visited Snake Island, a Black Sea outcrop which was seized by Russian forces on the day of the invasion and later abandoned, to mark the 500th day of the war. ALSO READ | Anti-Putin forces hint at fresh attacks in Russia, say they have 'ambitious plans' Ukrainian commanders vow to return to battlefield The five commanders, who were returned to Ukraine, had led a fierce three-month defence of Mariupol from the Azovstal Steel last year, which was the biggest city captured by Russia. "We are returning home from Turkey and bringing our heroes home,” Zelensky said, after meeting Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan in Istanbul on Friday. Ukrainian commanders, meanwhile, vowed to go back to the battlefield after the prisoner swap. Commander of Azov regiment Denys Prokopenko said, “The most important thing for today is that the Ukrainian army has seized the strategic initiative on the front line and is moving forward every day.” “We are paraplegics with sparkling eyes, with a strong soul and a weak will. Eagle wings are growing behind our backs but we were shackled to the Turkish soil. We will continue to do our job. We are military men. We took an oath,” Palamar added. Thousands of civilians lost their lives in Mariupol when Russian forces seized the city in the initial months of the war. The Ukrainian defenders held out in bunkers and tunnels under the Azovstal plant, till the unit was finally given an order to surrender by Kyiv in May last year. Exchange agreement violated Some of them were freed by Moscow in September in a prisoner swap which was brokered by Ankara under the terms which required the commanders to remain in Turkey till the Russia-Ukraine war ended. Speaking to Russia's RIA news agency, Peskov said, "No one informed us about this. According to the agreements, these ringleaders were to remain on the territory of Turkey until the end of the conflict." Peskov stated that the release of men took place due to heavy pressure that Turkey was facing from NATO allies ahead of the summit of the military alliance next week at which Ukraine hopes to get a positive sign about its future membership. WATCH | Kyiv: Russian attack kills 8, injures 13 in Lyman in Eastern Ukraine | Russia-Ukraine War Zelensky, during a ceremony in the western city of Lviv, thanked Erdogan for helping secure their release and promised to bring home all remaining prisoners. He said that before the war started, "many people in the world still did not understand what we are, what you are, what to expect from us and what our heroes are. Now everyone understands." The return of the men was hailed by many Ukrainians. "Finally! The best news ever. Congratulations to our brothers!" said Major Maksym Zhorin, who is fighting in eastern Ukraine on the Telegram messaging app. 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

Ukraine's Zelensky brings back Mariupol commanders, Moscow denounces return

According to a Newsweek magazine cover article titled "CIA's blind spot about Ukraine war," the enormous intelligence network is facing its greatest test in recent memory as the United States struggles to understand what is happening in the corridors of power in Moscow and Kyiv.

Clandestine war going on between Washington and Moscow :Reports | Russia-Ukraine War

Russia-Ukraine War: Proxy war between spy agencies amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine

In a bold move, Indian refiners have managed to save a staggering $7 billion in foreign exchange by ramping up their purchases of discounted Russian crude oil. As western buyers reduced imports from Russia due to the conflict in Ukraine, Moscow began offering attractive discounts on its crude. Indian refiners seized this opportunity, leading to remarkable savings.

Indian refiners save $7 bn on Russian crude | World Business Watch

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - Moscow signals end to Black Sea Deal, Russian bombers fly over Bering Sea, South Africa: Public outrage over public brutality, Russia-Ukraine War set to complete 500 days, Russian bombers fly over Bering Sea.

Moscow signals end to Black Sea Deal | Russian bombers fly over Bering Sea | WION Speed News

<p>Former Georgian president Mikheil Saakashvili appeared on television for the first time in months on Monday, looking frail and emaciated, fuelling concerns over the detained politician's treatment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 55-year-old — who before jail was a large man — was almost unrecognisable and looked like a ghost of his former self.</p>

<p>The images prompted war-torn Ukraine — of which Saakashvili is a citizen — to summon the Georgian ambassador, asking him to go to Tbilisi to help "save" Saakashvili.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Leader of the Caucasus country from 2004 to 2013, Saakashvili was jailed after returning from exile on abuse of power charges that rights groups denounce as politically motivated.</p>

<p>Doctors have said Saakashvili risks dying from conditions he has developed while in custody, though Georgian authorities say he is being given adequate medical care.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-government-protesters-fill-the-streets-of-georgian-capital-tbilisi-again-580799">Anti-government protesters fill the streets of Georgian capital Tbilisi again</a></strong></p>

<p>Appearing via video link for a court hearing on the "abuse of office" charges, Saakashvili, 55, lifted his shirt to show his ribs protruding from his chest, a hollow abdomen, and skin clinging tightly to his bones.</p>

<p>"A totally innocent man is being kept in custody," he said in coverage carried live on several independent TV channels. "I did not commit any crime."</p>

<p>He is being held at a civilian hospital, where he was transferred last year after staging a 50-day hunger strike to protest his detention.</p>

<p>"Putting me in jail will not break me. I am going to be actively involved in Georgian politics," he said.</p>

<h2>'Save this man'</h2>

<p>In Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the Georgian ambassador to Kyiv would be asked to "leave Ukraine within 48 hours to hold consultations with his capital" on Saakashvili's treatment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky wants Saakashvili — whom he made a Ukrainian citizen in 2019 — to be transferred to a clinic in Ukraine or the West.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He called on Georgia to "hand over" Saakashvili to Ukraine and "save this man".</p>

<p>It was not immediately clear if the ambassador was being formally expelled.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-asks-georgian-ambassador-to-kyiv-to-save-mikheil-saakashvili-611562">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky asks Georgian ambassador to Kyiv to 'save' Mikheil Saakashvili</a></strong></p>

<p>Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba that the ambassador would arrive at his offices on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Tomorrow morning, the Georgian ambassador will be at the Foreign Ministry, we will have a tough conversation with him, he will go to Georgia," Kuleba said on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyiv, which has been battling a Russian invasion for 16 months, has accused Tbilisi of increasingly cooperating with Moscow.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;First flight from Russia to Georgia since 2019 lands to protests</strong></p>

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<p>Zelensky accused Russia of "killing" Saakashvili "at the hands of the Georgian authorities".</p>

<h2>'Torture' in custody</h2>

<p>Two groups of doctors — one set up by Georgia's rights ombudsperson, another consisting of US-based medics — have said that Saakashvili's health continued to decline well after he ended his hunger strike.</p>

<p>The group of US-based doctors, who examined Saakashvili in person, said his deteriorating health was the result of "torture" in custody, saying he needed an immediate transfer to a medical centre abroad.</p>

<p>The politician, who once weighed more than 100 kilogrammes (220 pounds), has lost around 60 kilogrammes while in prison, the doctor groups say.</p>

<p>The European Union and the United States have urged Georgia to ensure that Saakashvili is provided medical treatment and that his rights are protected.</p>

<p>Amnesty International has branded his treatment as "apparent political revenge".</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Former Georgian president Mikheil Saakashvili appeared on television for the first time in months on Monday, looking frail and emaciated, fuelling concerns over the detained politician's treatment.

Former Georgian president Mikheil Saakashvili appeared on television for the first time in months on Monday, looking frail and emaciated, fuelling concerns over the detained politician's treatment. The 55-year-old — who before jail was a large man — was almost unrecognisable and looked like a ghost of his former self. The images prompted war-torn Ukraine — of which Saakashvili is a citizen — to summon the Georgian ambassador, asking him to go to Tbilisi to help "save" Saakashvili. Leader of the Caucasus country from 2004 to 2013, Saakashvili was jailed after returning from exile on abuse of power charges that rights groups denounce as politically motivated. Doctors have said Saakashvili risks dying from conditions he has developed while in custody, though Georgian authorities say he is being given adequate medical care. Also read: Anti-government protesters fill the streets of Georgian capital Tbilisi again Appearing via video link for a court hearing on the "abuse of office" charges, Saakashvili, 55, lifted his shirt to show his ribs protruding from his chest, a hollow abdomen, and skin clinging tightly to his bones. "A totally innocent man is being kept in custody," he said in coverage carried live on several independent TV channels. "I did not commit any crime." He is being held at a civilian hospital, where he was transferred last year after staging a 50-day hunger strike to protest his detention. "Putting me in jail will not break me. I am going to be actively involved in Georgian politics," he said. 'Save this man' In Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the Georgian ambassador to Kyiv would be asked to "leave Ukraine within 48 hours to hold consultations with his capital" on Saakashvili's treatment. Zelensky wants Saakashvili — whom he made a Ukrainian citizen in 2019 — to be transferred to a clinic in Ukraine or the West. He called on Georgia to "hand over" Saakashvili to Ukraine and "save this man". It was not immediately clear if the ambassador was being formally expelled. Also read: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky asks Georgian ambassador to Kyiv to 'save' Mikheil Saakashvili Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba that the ambassador would arrive at his offices on Tuesday. "Tomorrow morning, the Georgian ambassador will be at the Foreign Ministry, we will have a tough conversation with him, he will go to Georgia," Kuleba said on social media. Kyiv, which has been battling a Russian invasion for 16 months, has accused Tbilisi of increasingly cooperating with Moscow. Watch: First flight from Russia to Georgia since 2019 lands to protests × Zelensky accused Russia of "killing" Saakashvili "at the hands of the Georgian authorities". 'Torture' in custody Two groups of doctors — one set up by Georgia's rights ombudsperson, another consisting of US-based medics — have said that Saakashvili's health continued to decline well after he ended his hunger strike. The group of US-based doctors, who examined Saakashvili in person, said his deteriorating health was the result of "torture" in custody, saying he needed an immediate transfer to a medical centre abroad. The politician, who once weighed more than 100 kilogrammes (220 pounds), has lost around 60 kilogrammes while in prison, the doctor groups say. The European Union and the United States have urged Georgia to ensure that Saakashvili is provided medical treatment and that his rights are protected. Amnesty International has branded his treatment as "apparent political revenge". WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Health fears for Georgia's jailed ex-leader Saakashvili after TV footage

<p>Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals.</p>

<p>In a relatively credible biographical account of Vladimir Putin's life, '<em>His Life and Times: Putin</em>' by British journalist Philip Short, the Russian president has been described as ruthless, shockingly pragmatic and a leader with autocratic bend who hates historical amnesia — a loss of collective national memory about an event — a euphemism for present-day Russia's lost Soviet glory.<img alt="Putin Biography" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1b47ffe9-ba73-45b3-b31b-618e023bed36" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-25T205019.484.png" /></p>

<p>But over the weekend, after Putin's own former chef-turned-businessman-turned-warlord directed his mercenaries towards Moscow, the shockwaves were felt across global capitals. The people in newsrooms, like this writer, felt they were witnessing history. A coup d'état appeared nearly imminent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But in less than 36 hours, the armed uprising by Russia's Wagner mercenary group led by its boss Yevgeny Prigozhin ended as dramatically as it began. Putin's shocking pragmatism prevailed after he deployed one of his vassal states' leaders to diffuse the crisis. Prigozhin is now in Belarus after pulling his men back to their bases.&nbsp;<img alt="Vladimir Putin | Reuters" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5a95e5c5-8616-4e3e-885b-6a86121c2ccb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-25T115710.522.png" /></p>

<p>Here is a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-rebellion-when-putins-former-chef-served-a-dish-of-treason-ten-points-608452">blow-by-blow account</a> of the hours when Putin's former chef served him a dish of 'treason'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>More on The Capitals from capitals other than Moscow.</p>

<h2><strong>Washington DC, United States</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi with US President Joe Biden during a White House state dinner hosted in former's honour" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fcc9d393-df46-4ffc-a0e3-db9197ad3e8a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-23T091155.002_0.png" /></p>

<p><em>India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi with US President Joe Biden during a White House state dinner hosted in former's honour | AFP</em></p>

<p>A State Dinner in the White House. A subtle insertion of democratic values advocated by great Indian Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore — <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/where-the-mind-is-without-fear-biden-invokes-tagore-in-state-dinner-for-modi-607649">'Where the mind is without fear</a>' — and a mega bilateral convergence on business interests. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi's State Visit to the United States had everything but lows.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Riding on India's moment of growth, Modi addressed the US Congress, met top business leaders and brought home billions in investments. India announced that it will sign Artemis Accords, a non-binding multilateral arrangement between the US and other governments designed to guide civil space exploration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two nations also hailed 'giant leap' in cooperation on space science, chip development and mineral security.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Paris, France</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at a climate finance summit in Paris | @LulaOfficial/Twitter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f34142b5-3dfd-405d-b12d-eea703dcb655" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-25T154157.736.png" /></p>

<p><em>Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at a climate finance summit in Paris | @LulaOfficial/Twitter</em></p>

<p>In yet another moment of Global South's geo-economic assertion, US dollar’s role as primary reserve currency for global trade was challenged at a finance summit in Paris by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and his Brazilian counterpart Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva after the US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen defended the oversized role of US dollar in global markets.</p>

<p>"Why can’t we trade in our own currencies?" Brazilian President Lula asked an assertive US treasury secretary Janet Yellen.</p>

<p>South African President Ramaphosa said that the "issue of currency" would be discussed at the upcoming meeting of BRICS countries later this year, which South Africa is scheduled to host in August.</p>

<h2><strong>Athens, Greece</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="Greece election" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="124177fd-5dbd-4b33-aa29-9c006e70102c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-25T210732.487.png" /></p>

<p><em>People visit the Areios Pagos hill, with the Acropolis' Propylaea seen in the background, in Athens, Greece | Representative image/Reuters</em></p>

<p>For the corridors of power in one of the world's oldest capitals, voters across Greece headed to a repeat election this weekend. Fomer Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is seeking a second term to form the government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mitsotakis' New Democratic party won the election on May 21, twenty points clear of rival Alexis Tsipras' Syriza party. However, it fell short of the majority needed to rule without forming a coalition. As election rules this time would accord up to 50 bonus seats to the winner of the vote, the New Democracy party is widely projected to emerge victorious.</p>

<p>That's all for The Capitals this week. See you next weekend.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. In a relatively credible biographical account of Vladimir Putin's life, 'His Life and Times: Putin' by British journalist Philip Short, the Russian president has been described as ruthless, shockingly pragmatic and a leader with autocratic bend who hates historical amnesia — a loss of collective national memory about an event — a euphemism for present-day Russia's lost Soviet glory.

Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. In a relatively credible biographical account of Vladimir Putin's life, 'His Life and Times: Putin' by British journalist Philip Short, the Russian president has been described as ruthless, shockingly pragmatic and a leader with autocratic bend who hates historical amnesia — a loss of collective national memory about an event — a euphemism for present-day Russia's lost Soviet glory. But over the weekend, after Putin's own former chef-turned-businessman-turned-warlord directed his mercenaries towards Moscow, the shockwaves were felt across global capitals. The people in newsrooms, like this writer, felt they were witnessing history. A coup d'état appeared nearly imminent. But in less than 36 hours, the armed uprising by Russia's Wagner mercenary group led by its boss Yevgeny Prigozhin ended as dramatically as it began. Putin's shocking pragmatism prevailed after he deployed one of his vassal states' leaders to diffuse the crisis. Prigozhin is now in Belarus after pulling his men back to their bases. Here is a blow-by-blow account of the hours when Putin's former chef served him a dish of 'treason'. More on The Capitals from capitals other than Moscow. Washington DC, United States India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi with US President Joe Biden during a White House state dinner hosted in former's honour | AFP A State Dinner in the White House. A subtle insertion of democratic values advocated by great Indian Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore — 'Where the mind is without fear' — and a mega bilateral convergence on business interests. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi's State Visit to the United States had everything but lows. Riding on India's moment of growth, Modi addressed the US Congress, met top business leaders and brought home billions in investments. India announced that it will sign Artemis Accords, a non-binding multilateral arrangement between the US and other governments designed to guide civil space exploration. The two nations also hailed 'giant leap' in cooperation on space science, chip development and mineral security. Paris, France Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at a climate finance summit in Paris | @LulaOfficial/Twitter In yet another moment of Global South's geo-economic assertion, US dollar’s role as primary reserve currency for global trade was challenged at a finance summit in Paris by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and his Brazilian counterpart Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva after the US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen defended the oversized role of US dollar in global markets. "Why can’t we trade in our own currencies?" Brazilian President Lula asked an assertive US treasury secretary Janet Yellen. South African President Ramaphosa said that the "issue of currency" would be discussed at the upcoming meeting of BRICS countries later this year, which South Africa is scheduled to host in August. Athens, Greece People visit the Areios Pagos hill, with the Acropolis' Propylaea seen in the background, in Athens, Greece | Representative image/Reuters For the corridors of power in one of the world's oldest capitals, voters across Greece headed to a repeat election this weekend. Fomer Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is seeking a second term to form the government. Mitsotakis' New Democratic party won the election on May 21, twenty points clear of rival Alexis Tsipras' Syriza party. However, it fell short of the majority needed to rule without forming a coalition. As election rules this time would accord up to 50 bonus seats to the winner of the vote, the New Democracy party is widely projected to emerge victorious. That's all for The Capitals this week. See you next weekend. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

The Capitals: Moscow dodges mutiny bullet, Global South cements its rise in Washington and Paris

<p>In a dramatic turn of events, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the rebel leader of the Wagner Group of mercenaries, ordered his fighters to retreat from their advance toward Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation and avert potential bloodshed following a deal with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko under which Russia would drop all charges against him and he will be granted safe passage to Belarus.&nbsp;Prigozhin revealed on Saturday that his forces had made significant progress, covering a distance of 200 km (124 miles) within the past 24 hours, but he has now issued orders for them to promptly return to their respective bases.</p>

<p>The Wagner mutiny drama ended after Belarus claimed that President Alexander Lukashenko was able to persuade the Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin to cease his march towards Moscow. If the claims are to be believed, it can lead to a potential end to the coup attempt in Russia, the first in last 30 years.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/archaeologists-unearth-4000-year-old-stonehenge-burial-ground-in-the-netherlands-608203">Archaeologists unearth 4,000-year-old ‘Stonehenge’ burial ground in the Netherlands</a></p>

<p>Media reports citing Lukashenko's press service said the president engaged in extensive negotiations with Prigozhin throughout the "entire day" after establishing a mutual understanding with Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before his negotiations with Wagner&nbsp;chief, Lukashenko held talks with Putin and they agreed on joint actions and “additionally clarifying the situation through his own channels.”</p>

<p>The press service stated that Prigozhin has accepted Lukashenko's appeal to halt the movement. It said Prigozhin had “accepted [Lukashenko’s] request to “stop the movement of armed men from the Wagner company on Russian territory and [take] further steps to de-escalate the situation.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-rolls-out-perspectives-tab-in-major-search-engine-revamp-608201">Google rolls out 'Perspectives' tab in major search-engine revamp</a></p>

<p>“At the moment, there is an absolutely advantageous and acceptable way to defuse the situation on the table, with security guarantees for Wagner’s fighters,” Lukashenko’s press service said, as per media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">⚡️⚡️⚡️ President of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Belarus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Belarus</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lukashenko?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lukashenko</a> held talks w/ head of PMC Wagner <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Prigozhin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Prigozhin</a>. Negotiations continued throughout the day.<br />
<br />
‼️Y.Prigozhin accepted the proposal of President of 🇧🇾 to stop the movement of armed people of the Wagner company on the territory of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://t.co/Kpf2SW7RNu">pic.twitter.com/Kpf2SW7RNu</a></p>
— Belarus MFA 🇧🇾 (@BelarusMFA) <a href="https://twitter.com/BelarusMFA/status/1672660872668368898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Before Wagner chief's decision to turn back his forces, Ukraine's defence ministry mocked the presence of Russian troops on the country's land on Saturday, urging them to return home and participate in the ongoing clashes between rebel mercenaries and Russia's military. The ministry's statement questioned the reason behind Russian soldiers still being stationed in challenging conditions instead of supporting their comrades involved in the conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the Ukrainian ministry asked, "Why Russian soldiers are still sitting in muddy trenches rather than running to the aid of their comrades on both sides of the conflict. That would be far safer than confronting the Ukrainian army."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | 'Putin's chef' vs Defence Minister: Where has Wagner operated?</strong></p>

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<p>Many world leaders were also keeping a close eye on the events in Russia as Putin faced a tough battle to push back Wagner chief from making gains in several Russian regions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, Wagner chief pledged to overthrow Russia's military leadership and his forces were moving through the Lipetsk region, situated around 400 kilometres (250 miles) south of Moscow, however, it seems like a deal was brokered between the warring factions which ultimately lead to the turning back of mercenary forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia's parliamentary leaders had expressed support for President Putin against Wagner mercenaries. On Saturday, the speakers of both houses of the Russian parliament declared their backing for President Vladimir Putin amidst the Wagner mercenary group's attempted ousting of the country's military leadership.</p>

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In a dramatic turn of events, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the rebel leader of the Wagner Group of mercenaries, ordered his fighters to retreat from their advance toward Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation and avert potential bloodshed following a deal with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko under which Russia would drop all charges against him and he will be granted safe passage to Belarus.

In a dramatic turn of events, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the rebel leader of the Wagner Group of mercenaries, ordered his fighters to retreat from their advance toward Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation and avert potential bloodshed following a deal with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko under which Russia would drop all charges against him and he will be granted safe passage to Belarus. Prigozhin revealed on Saturday that his forces had made significant progress, covering a distance of 200 km (124 miles) within the past 24 hours, but he has now issued orders for them to promptly return to their respective bases. The Wagner mutiny drama ended after Belarus claimed that President Alexander Lukashenko was able to persuade the Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin to cease his march towards Moscow. If the claims are to be believed, it can lead to a potential end to the coup attempt in Russia, the first in last 30 years. Also Read | Archaeologists unearth 4,000-year-old ‘Stonehenge’ burial ground in the Netherlands Media reports citing Lukashenko's press service said the president engaged in extensive negotiations with Prigozhin throughout the "entire day" after establishing a mutual understanding with Putin. Before his negotiations with Wagner chief, Lukashenko held talks with Putin and they agreed on joint actions and “additionally clarifying the situation through his own channels.” The press service stated that Prigozhin has accepted Lukashenko's appeal to halt the movement. It said Prigozhin had “accepted [Lukashenko’s] request to “stop the movement of armed men from the Wagner company on Russian territory and [take] further steps to de-escalate the situation.” Also Read | Google rolls out 'Perspectives' tab in major search-engine revamp “At the moment, there is an absolutely advantageous and acceptable way to defuse the situation on the table, with security guarantees for Wagner’s fighters,” Lukashenko’s press service said, as per media reports. ⚡️⚡️⚡️ President of #Belarus #Lukashenko held talks w/ head of PMC Wagner #Prigozhin. Negotiations continued throughout the day. ‼️Y.Prigozhin accepted the proposal of President of 🇧🇾 to stop the movement of armed people of the Wagner company on the territory of #Russia pic.twitter.com/Kpf2SW7RNu — Belarus MFA 🇧🇾 (@BelarusMFA) June 24, 2023 × Before Wagner chief's decision to turn back his forces, Ukraine's defence ministry mocked the presence of Russian troops on the country's land on Saturday, urging them to return home and participate in the ongoing clashes between rebel mercenaries and Russia's military. The ministry's statement questioned the reason behind Russian soldiers still being stationed in challenging conditions instead of supporting their comrades involved in the conflict. In a statement, the Ukrainian ministry asked, "Why Russian soldiers are still sitting in muddy trenches rather than running to the aid of their comrades on both sides of the conflict. That would be far safer than confronting the Ukrainian army." Watch | 'Putin's chef' vs Defence Minister: Where has Wagner operated? × Many world leaders were also keeping a close eye on the events in Russia as Putin faced a tough battle to push back Wagner chief from making gains in several Russian regions. Earlier in the day, Wagner chief pledged to overthrow Russia's military leadership and his forces were moving through the Lipetsk region, situated around 400 kilometres (250 miles) south of Moscow, however, it seems like a deal was brokered between the warring factions which ultimately lead to the turning back of mercenary forces. Russia's parliamentary leaders had expressed support for President Putin against Wagner mercenaries. On Saturday, the speakers of both houses of the Russian parliament declared their backing for President Vladimir Putin amidst the Wagner mercenary group's attempted ousting of the country's military leadership. 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 Prigozhin orders fighters to retreat, halt advance on Moscow to prevent bloodshed

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