Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (February 21) lashed out at the Church of England while he also stepped up the attack on the United States and other western nations as the invasion of Ukraine by Moscow, which he ordered on February 24, 2022, is set to complete one year. "The Church of England is considering a version of a 'gender-neutral' God. They don’t know what they’re doing," he said. Earlier this month, the centuries-old institution had said that it would look into the use of gender neutral terms to refer to God in prayers. In his latest remarks, the Russian President said that the western churches go against bible.

"Christians have recognised since ancient times that God is neither male nor female. Yet the variety of ways of addressing and describing God found in scripture has not always been reflected in our worship," a spokesperson for the Church said earlier this month, stressing that there were "absolutely no plans to abolish or substantially revise" authorised services. No changes would be introduced, the spokesperson added, without "extensive legislation". The Church of England has also come under attack from conservative over its decision to grant blessings to same-sex couples in civil marriages. 
&nbsp; 
Questioning the observations by the institution, Putin said: “Their prime target is of course younger people and our young generation. And here, again, they lie constantly. They distort historical facts, they constantly attack our culture, the Russian Orthodox Church, and other traditional religious organisations of our country." &nbsp;

&nbsp;“I’d like to say to them: look at the holy scripture, the holy books of all other world religions. It’s all said there - including the fact that family is the union of a man and a woman. But even those sacred texts are being reviewed now. As it became known, the Anglican Church for example plans to, just plans at this point, to consider the idea of gender-neutral God. What can I say? May God forgive them for they know not what they do," the Russian President said.

Watch|Key takeaways of Russian President Vladimir Putin's State of the Union address

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Putin's warning to West 
A day after US President Joe Biden paid a surprise visit to Ukraine, Putin issued a sharp warning. "The elites of the West do not hide their purpose. But they also cannot fail to realise that it is impossible to defeat Russia on the battlefield," he said. His comments come as the US has decided to send more weapons to Kyiv.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-announces-suspension-of-nuke-arms-control-treaty-with-us-564382">Russian President Vladimir Putin announces suspension of nuke arms control treaty with US</a>

"I am forced to announce today that Russia is suspending its participation in the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty," Putin announced in an apparent retaliation. Some people in Washington were thinking about resuming nuclear testing, he said without any other statements in support of the claim as he stressed that Russia's defence ministry and nuclear corporation should therefore be ready to test Russian nuclear weapons if necessary.&nbsp; "Of course, we will not do this first. But if the United States conducts tests, then we will. No one should have dangerous illusions that global strategic parity can be destroyed," the Russian President underlined.

(With agency inputs)

&nbsp;

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (February 21) lashed out at the Church of England while he also stepped up the attack on the United States and other western nations as the invasion of Ukraine by Moscow, which he ordered on February 24, 2022, is set to complete one year.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (February 21) lashed out at the Church of England while he also stepped up the attack on the United States and other western nations as the invasion of Ukraine by Moscow, which he ordered on February 24, 2022, is set to complete one year. "The Church of England is considering a version of a 'gender-neutral' God. They don’t know what they’re doing," he said. Earlier this month, the centuries-old institution had said that it would look into the use of gender neutral terms to refer to God in prayers. In his latest remarks, the Russian President said that the western churches go against bible. "Christians have recognised since ancient times that God is neither male nor female. Yet the variety of ways of addressing and describing God found in scripture has not always been reflected in our worship," a spokesperson for the Church said earlier this month, stressing that there were "absolutely no plans to abolish or substantially revise" authorised services. No changes would be introduced, the spokesperson added, without "extensive legislation". The Church of England has also come under attack from conservative over its decision to grant blessings to same-sex couples in civil marriages. Questioning the observations by the institution, Putin said: “Their prime target is of course younger people and our young generation. And here, again, they lie constantly. They distort historical facts, they constantly attack our culture, the Russian Orthodox Church, and other traditional religious organisations of our country." “I’d like to say to them: look at the holy scripture, the holy books of all other world religions. It’s all said there - including the fact that family is the union of a man and a woman. But even those sacred texts are being reviewed now. As it became known, the Anglican Church for example plans to, just plans at this point, to consider the idea of gender-neutral God. What can I say? May God forgive them for they know not what they do," the Russian President said. Watch|Key takeaways of Russian President Vladimir Putin's State of the Union address × Putin's warning to West A day after US President Joe Biden paid a surprise visit to Ukraine, Putin issued a sharp warning. "The elites of the West do not hide their purpose. But they also cannot fail to realise that it is impossible to defeat Russia on the battlefield," he said. His comments come as the US has decided to send more weapons to Kyiv. Also read: Russian President Vladimir Putin announces suspension of nuke arms control treaty with US "I am forced to announce today that Russia is suspending its participation in the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty," Putin announced in an apparent retaliation. Some people in Washington were thinking about resuming nuclear testing, he said without any other statements in support of the claim as he stressed that Russia's defence ministry and nuclear corporation should therefore be ready to test Russian nuclear weapons if necessary. "Of course, we will not do this first. But if the United States conducts tests, then we will. No one should have dangerous illusions that global strategic parity can be destroyed," the Russian President underlined. (With agency inputs) 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.

On 'gender-neutral' God, Putin slams Church of England: 'They don't know...'

'My enemy's enemy is friend', you must have heard this idiom but it is playing out in geopolitics today. The only difference is that the United States is uniting all of its foes - China, Russia and Iran. The US Secretary of State has hinted that Beijing might be thinking of sending material support to Moscow i.e arms and ammunition.

China and its growing alliances: Is China uniting all of US' foes?

Russia, which has one of the largest military forces in the world, has got some harsh estimations thrown up at it by a new think tank report. International Institute of Strategic Studies (IISS) has made an estimation that in the first nine months of Russia's war on Ukraine there has been a substantial decrease in the Russian army's fleets of tanks. How much loss are we talking about? According to the think tank, Moscow may just have lost about 40 per cent of its prewar fleet of tanks.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/munich-security-conference-to-kick-off-tomorrow-what-issues-to-take-center-stage-562574">Munich Security Conference to kick off tomorrow: what issues will take centre stage?</a>

The estimations were made mostly with the aid of images taken by drones, and satellites from the battlefield from February through November end. However, these are only estimations and cannot be relied upon completely. The think tank went on to say that because of this significant dearth of tanks which is estimated to have gone for up to 50 per cent for few key tanks, Russia is now forced to use its cold war-era weaponry.&nbsp;

In contrast, the think tank said that Ukraine’s tank numbers are estimated to have increased. The reason for this increase is Kyiv's capture of Soviet-era tanks as well as aid received from western allies.&nbsp;John Chipman, the chair of the think tank called the war “a political and military failure for Russia." He said that this is a leadership issue compounded by deficiencies in Moscow's munitions. Chipman also noted that all this transpired even after Kremlin's modernisation efforts.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/violent-protests-erupt-in-nigeria-over-scarcity-of-cash-reports-562541">Violent protests erupt in Nigeria over scarcity of cash: Reports</a>

While launching the think tank's annual Military Balance audit of the world’s armed forces, he said, “Russia’s actions over the past year have raised questions not only over the competence of its military and senior military leadership, but also over command cohesion."&nbsp;

As per the think tank, Russia’s number of tanks in its army may have reduced by 38 per cent from 2,927 to 1,800. Additionally, there may have been heavy losses of its workhorse T-72B3 which is an upgrade to the battle tanks which was in use in 2013.

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tesla-to-share-charging-network-3500-chargers-for-non-tesla-customers-562566">Tesla to share charging network, 3,500 chargers for non-Tesla customers</a>

Despite the losses, the think tank said that Russia still has about 5,000 old tanks in long-term storage and the country with the help of these tanks still has strategic advances. Ukraine, on the other hand, seems to have accentuated in its tank count. Ukraine's tanks have gone up to 953 from 858. Kyiv is estimated to have captured an estimated of 500 tanks from Russia.&nbsp;

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Russia, which has one of the largest military forces in the world, has got some harsh estimations thrown up at it by a new think tank report. International Institute of Strategic Studies (IISS) has made an estimation that in the first nine months of Russia's war on Ukraine there has been a substantial decrease in the Russian army's fleets of tanks.

Russia, which has one of the largest military forces in the world, has got some harsh estimations thrown up at it by a new think tank report. International Institute of Strategic Studies (IISS) has made an estimation that in the first nine months of Russia's war on Ukraine there has been a substantial decrease in the Russian army's fleets of tanks. How much loss are we talking about? According to the think tank, Moscow may just have lost about 40 per cent of its prewar fleet of tanks. Also Read | Munich Security Conference to kick off tomorrow: what issues will take centre stage? The estimations were made mostly with the aid of images taken by drones, and satellites from the battlefield from February through November end. However, these are only estimations and cannot be relied upon completely. The think tank went on to say that because of this significant dearth of tanks which is estimated to have gone for up to 50 per cent for few key tanks, Russia is now forced to use its cold war-era weaponry. In contrast, the think tank said that Ukraine’s tank numbers are estimated to have increased. The reason for this increase is Kyiv's capture of Soviet-era tanks as well as aid received from western allies. John Chipman, the chair of the think tank called the war “a political and military failure for Russia." He said that this is a leadership issue compounded by deficiencies in Moscow's munitions. Chipman also noted that all this transpired even after Kremlin's modernisation efforts. Also Read | Violent protests erupt in Nigeria over scarcity of cash: Reports While launching the think tank's annual Military Balance audit of the world’s armed forces, he said, “Russia’s actions over the past year have raised questions not only over the competence of its military and senior military leadership, but also over command cohesion." As per the think tank, Russia’s number of tanks in its army may have reduced by 38 per cent from 2,927 to 1,800. Additionally, there may have been heavy losses of its workhorse T-72B3 which is an upgrade to the battle tanks which was in use in 2013. Watch | Tesla to share charging network, 3,500 chargers for non-Tesla customers Despite the losses, the think tank said that Russia still has about 5,000 old tanks in long-term storage and the country with the help of these tanks still has strategic advances. Ukraine, on the other hand, seems to have accentuated in its tank count. Ukraine's tanks have gone up to 953 from 858. Kyiv is estimated to have captured an estimated of 500 tanks from Russia. 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.

War a military failure for Russia, Ukraine's tank count rising: Think tank

A large network of camps being operated by the federal government in Russia has held at least 6,000 children from the war-ravaged Ukraine, a study by Yale University's Humanitarian Research Lab (HRL) has revealed. At least 43 such facilities and their locations have been identified, as per the findings. ‘Re-education,’ an effort to ostensibly make children more pro-Russia in their personal and political views, has been counted among the purposes of the network. &nbsp;The facilities have been located in Crimea, and mainland Russia apart from installations found in Siberia and along Russia’s far eastern Pacific coast.

The transport of the kids started before Moscow launched a full-scale invasion in February last year. "These first transports of children in early February 2022 included a group of 500 purported orphans ‘evacuated’ from Donetsk oblast by Russia," the report states. These efforts were linked to the apparent threat of an offensive by the Ukrainian armed forces in the rebel-dominated regions of Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR) and Luhansk People’s Republic (LPR).&nbsp;

The children are believed to be staying in the state-operated facilities over the past year. Segmented into four categories, children deemed orphans, those who were under the care of the Ukrainian state institutions before the war began, whose custody is unclear amid the conflict, and those who have clear familial guardianship are found to be staying in these facilities.&nbsp;

While those who have clear guardianship have been targeted for "re-education", children - deemed orphans - have been targeted for&nbsp; 
"deportation to the Russian territory or for adoption or foster care", the study claims. "At least 32 (78 per cent) of the camps identified by Yale HRL appear engaged in systematic re-education efforts that expose children from Ukraine to Russia-centric academic, cultural, patriotic, and/or military education," the HRL study underlines. &nbsp;"Multiple camps endorsed by the Russian Federation are advertised as 'integration programs', &nbsp;with the apparent goal of integrating children from Ukraine into the Russian government’s vision of national culture, history, and society," it further stresses.&nbsp;

In 10 per cent of these camps, the return of children to Ukraine was allegedly delayed. Some parents have been reported as saying that they were unable to get information about their children.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-provide-military-supplies-to-ukraine-via-german-port-report-561123">Pakistan to provide military supplies to Ukraine via German port, says report</a>

The program involves every level of the Russian government, according to the Yale investigation, which stresses that &nbsp;"dozens of federal, regional, and local figures (are) directly engaged in operating and politically justifying the program". &nbsp;Medical care of the children in the war-torn country has also been cited as one of the reasons for the transport.&nbsp;

“Giving (Ukraine’s children Russian) nationality or having them adopted goes against the fundamental principles of child protection in situations of war. This is something that is happening in Russia and must not happen," Filippo Grande, UN High Commissioner for Refugees, &nbsp;

The issue was raised last year by officials at the United Nations. In June, the former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, told the Security Council that the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) was investigating alleged plans for the forcible deportation of Ukraine’s children to Russia, “which do not appear to include steps for 
family reunification".&nbsp;

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A large network of camps being operated by the federal government in Russia has held at least 6,000 children from the war-ravaged Ukraine, a study by Yale University's Humanitarian Research Lab (HRL) has revealed.

A large network of camps being operated by the federal government in Russia has held at least 6,000 children from the war-ravaged Ukraine, a study by Yale University's Humanitarian Research Lab (HRL) has revealed. At least 43 such facilities and their locations have been identified, as per the findings. ‘Re-education,’ an effort to ostensibly make children more pro-Russia in their personal and political views, has been counted among the purposes of the network. The facilities have been located in Crimea, and mainland Russia apart from installations found in Siberia and along Russia’s far eastern Pacific coast. The transport of the kids started before Moscow launched a full-scale invasion in February last year. "These first transports of children in early February 2022 included a group of 500 purported orphans ‘evacuated’ from Donetsk oblast by Russia," the report states. These efforts were linked to the apparent threat of an offensive by the Ukrainian armed forces in the rebel-dominated regions of Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR) and Luhansk People’s Republic (LPR). The children are believed to be staying in the state-operated facilities over the past year. Segmented into four categories, children deemed orphans, those who were under the care of the Ukrainian state institutions before the war began, whose custody is unclear amid the conflict, and those who have clear familial guardianship are found to be staying in these facilities. While those who have clear guardianship have been targeted for "re-education", children - deemed orphans - have been targeted for "deportation to the Russian territory or for adoption or foster care", the study claims. "At least 32 (78 per cent) of the camps identified by Yale HRL appear engaged in systematic re-education efforts that expose children from Ukraine to Russia-centric academic, cultural, patriotic, and/or military education," the HRL study underlines. "Multiple camps endorsed by the Russian Federation are advertised as 'integration programs', with the apparent goal of integrating children from Ukraine into the Russian government’s vision of national culture, history, and society," it further stresses. In 10 per cent of these camps, the return of children to Ukraine was allegedly delayed. Some parents have been reported as saying that they were unable to get information about their children. Also read: Pakistan to provide military supplies to Ukraine via German port, says report The program involves every level of the Russian government, according to the Yale investigation, which stresses that "dozens of federal, regional, and local figures (are) directly engaged in operating and politically justifying the program". Medical care of the children in the war-torn country has also been cited as one of the reasons for the transport. “Giving (Ukraine’s children Russian) nationality or having them adopted goes against the fundamental principles of child protection in situations of war. This is something that is happening in Russia and must not happen," Filippo Grande, UN High Commissioner for Refugees, The issue was raised last year by officials at the United Nations. In June, the former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, told the Security Council that the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) was investigating alleged plans for the forcible deportation of Ukraine’s children to Russia, “which do not appear to include steps for family reunification". 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.

Thousands of Ukrainian children held in Russia targeted for 're-education': Yale study

India's National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. The Indian NSA was visiting Russia from February 7 to February 9. Doval held wide-ranging discussions on bilateral and regional issues with Putin.

India's NSA Ajit Doval meets Russian President Putin, discusses India-Russia strategic partnership

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval participated in the 5th National Security Advisers meet on Afghanistan in Moscow on Wednesday, where he highlighted India's commitment to the people of Afghanistan. In his address, NSA pointed to the historic and special relationship India and Afghanistan have, and the well-being and humanitarian needs of the Afghan people is New Delhi's foremost priority.

The meeting was attended by security chiefs of India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, China, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan in which they discussed various issues related to Afghanistan, including the security situation and humanitarian challenges facing the country.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-bird-caged-in-turkey-after-anger-swamped-social-media-over-erdogans-quake-response-560125">Twitter bird 'caged' in Turkey after anger swamped social media over Erdogan's quake response</a>

Doval emphasized India's efforts to support Afghanistan, including the delivery of 40,000 metric tons of wheat, 60 tons of medicines, 500,000 Covid-19 vaccines, winter clothing, and 28 tons of disaster relief. He also mentioned the scholarships granted to 2,260 Afghan students, including 300 girls, in the past two years as a testament to India's commitment to education in Afghanistan.

On the issue of terrorism, Doval reaffirmed the importance of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2593 (2021), which calls for denying sanctuary to terror outfits, including those designated by UNSCR 1267. &nbsp;The resolution was passed under the Indian presidency of the security council in August 2021. &nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-warns-of-bloody-harvest-in-war-escalation-if-uk-sends-fighter-jets-to-ukraine-560131">Russia warns of 'bloody harvest' in war escalation if UK sends fighter jets to Ukraine</a>

On issues related to terror groups like Daesh and Pakistan based LeT and JeM he called for intensification of intelligence and security cooperation between countries of the region. He stated that no country should be allowed to use Afghan territory to export terrorism and radicalization, and that natural resources of Afghanistan should be utilized first for the welfare of the Afghan people. Worries have mounted that in Taliban controlled Afghanistan, Terror groups, including many anti India groups might find space.

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkiye-earthquake-survivors-recall-horror-560099">Turkiye earthquake survivors recall horror</a>

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval explained that India will continue to be a significant stakeholder in Afghanistan and will always support the Afghan people in their quest to rebuild their nation. India has been a major development partner of the country, especially before the fall of Afghanistan to Taliban building the Parliament house in Kabul, India Afghanistan friendship dam in Herat and other community projects.

He stressed the importance of an inclusive and representative dispensation for the overall well-being of Afghan society. New Delhi, since Taliban takeover has been calling for formation of an inclusive govt in Kabul that also has representatives from the minority ethnic group.

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National Security Advisor Ajit Doval participated in the 5th National Security Advisers meet on Afghanistan in Moscow on Wednesday, where he highlighted India's commitment to the people of Afghanistan.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval participated in the 5th National Security Advisers meet on Afghanistan in Moscow on Wednesday, where he highlighted India's commitment to the people of Afghanistan. In his address, NSA pointed to the historic and special relationship India and Afghanistan have, and the well-being and humanitarian needs of the Afghan people is New Delhi's foremost priority. The meeting was attended by security chiefs of India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, China, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan in which they discussed various issues related to Afghanistan, including the security situation and humanitarian challenges facing the country. Also Read | Twitter bird 'caged' in Turkey after anger swamped social media over Erdogan's quake response Doval emphasized India's efforts to support Afghanistan, including the delivery of 40,000 metric tons of wheat, 60 tons of medicines, 500,000 Covid-19 vaccines, winter clothing, and 28 tons of disaster relief. He also mentioned the scholarships granted to 2,260 Afghan students, including 300 girls, in the past two years as a testament to India's commitment to education in Afghanistan. On the issue of terrorism, Doval reaffirmed the importance of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2593 (2021), which calls for denying sanctuary to terror outfits, including those designated by UNSCR 1267. The resolution was passed under the Indian presidency of the security council in August 2021. Also Read | Russia warns of 'bloody harvest' in war escalation if UK sends fighter jets to Ukraine On issues related to terror groups like Daesh and Pakistan based LeT and JeM he called for intensification of intelligence and security cooperation between countries of the region. He stated that no country should be allowed to use Afghan territory to export terrorism and radicalization, and that natural resources of Afghanistan should be utilized first for the welfare of the Afghan people. Worries have mounted that in Taliban controlled Afghanistan, Terror groups, including many anti India groups might find space. Watch | Turkiye earthquake survivors recall horror National Security Advisor Ajit Doval explained that India will continue to be a significant stakeholder in Afghanistan and will always support the Afghan people in their quest to rebuild their nation. India has been a major development partner of the country, especially before the fall of Afghanistan to Taliban building the Parliament house in Kabul, India Afghanistan friendship dam in Herat and other community projects. He stressed the importance of an inclusive and representative dispensation for the overall well-being of Afghan society. New Delhi, since Taliban takeover has been calling for formation of an inclusive govt in Kabul that also has representatives from the minority ethnic group. 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.

India stands with Afghanistan in time of need, says NSA Ajit Doval at Moscow talks

As per reports, China and Russia to hold meeting in Moscow. The meeting will be held to elevate their ties in 2023. Watch further to know more.

China, Russia to hold meeting in Moscow: Report

A day after Ukraine slammed the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for attempting to find ways to allow Russian athletes to compete, Moscow has responded. Russia's Olympic Committee chief Stanislav Pozdnyakov on Tuesday said Russian athletes should not be subjected to different conditions from those of other countries.

A day after Ukraine slammed the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for attempting to find ways to allow Russian athletes to compete, Moscow has responded. Russia's Olympic Committee chief Stanislav Pozdnyakov on Tuesday said Russian athletes should not be subjected to different conditions from those of other countries. "Russians must participate exactly on the same conditions as all other athletes. Any additional conditions or criteria are unwelcome, especially any that have political overtones, which are completely unacceptable for the Olympic movement," said Pozdnyakov. On Monday, Ukraine's presidential aide Mykhaylo Podolyak took to Twitter to post a message, terming IOC as a 'promoter of war'. "(The) IOC is a promoter of war, murder and destruction. The IOC watches with pleasure Russia destroying Ukraine and then offers Russia a platform to promote genocide and encourages their further killings," tweeted Podolyak. "Obviously Russian money that buys Olympic hypocrisy doesn't have a smell of Ukrainian blood. Right, Mr Bach? added the presidential aide, referring to IOC president Thomas Bach. #IOC is a promoter of war, murder & destruction. The IOC watches with pleasure RF destroying 🇺🇦 & then offers 🇷🇺 a platform to promote genocide & encourages their further killings. Obviously ru-money that buys Olympic hypocrisy doesn’t have a smell of 🇺🇦 blood. Right, Mr. #Bach? — Михайло Подоляк (@Podolyak_M) January 30, 2023 × Read more: 'Promoter of war, murder...': Ukraine slams International Olympic Committee Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has publically batted for no Russian athlete to be allowed at the 2024 Paris Olympics. "We must be sure that Russia will not be able to use it (the Olympics) or any other international sporting event to promote aggression or its state chauvinism." Ukraine's sports minister has already issued a warning that his country and its athletes will boycott the 2024 Olympics if IOC continues to entertain the Russians. The verbal attacks from the Russian and Ukrainian officials come in the backdrop of the IOC hinting that it could allow Russian athletes to compete in the quadrennial competition as neutrals. The IOC said that "no athlete should be prevented from competing just because of their passport". "Respect the rights of all athletes to be treated without any discrimination, in accordance with the Olympic Charter. Governments must not decide which athletes can participate in which competition and which athletes cannot." Read more: IOC to explore pathway for Russian, Belarusian athletes to compete in Paris Olympics Both Russia and its ally Belarus have been pushed to the fringes of most Olympic sports, following Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine last year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Russians must compete...': Moscow responds as Ukraine threatens Paris Olympics boycott

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has received a special message from Russian President Vladimir Putin after he reportedly said that Moscow sees Islamabad as a key partner in South Asia and the Islamic world.

Vladimir Putin calls Pakistan 'a key partner' after latter decides to buy oil, gas from Moscow

A Moscow to Goa chartered flight was reportedly diverted to Uzbekistan on an early warning following a bomb threat that was sent via an e-mail. The flight, AZV 2463 was carrying a total of 238 passengers including two infants and seven crew members. Watch the video to know more.

BREAKING: Bomb scare on Moscow-Goa chartered flight; diverted to Uzbekistan

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. Russia's defence ministry on Friday claimed that its forces had taken control of Klishchiivka, a settlement south of Bakhmut, which is in eastern Ukraine's Donetsk region. The news agency Reuters reported that the village of Klishchiivka had a pre-war population of around 400 people. The village was said to have been captured with the help of aerial support. Russia's claim was on the day when Western allies had gathered in Germany to plan future military assistance to Ukraine as President Volodymyr Zelensky urged for tanks and long-range missiles for its fight against Russia. The claim over Klishchiivka comes a day after the head of Russia's Wagner mercenary force, Yevgeny Prigozhin, said that his units had claimed more ground near Bakhmut and captured the village of Klishchiivka. Prigozhin said on Thursday, "We can safely say that the settlement of Klishchiivka, which is one of the important suburbs of Bakhmut, has been completely taken under the control of Wagner PMC units." WATCH | US calls for allies to 'dig deeper' on Ukraine as pressure builds for tanks × Meanwhile, a senior Moscow-installed official said on Friday that fighting has "sharply increased" in the southern Ukraine region of Zaporizhzhia. As quoted by the news agency AFP, the official Vladimir Rogov said on the Telegram social media platform: "In the direction of Zaporizhzhia, the intensity of military activity has sharply increased." (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-Ukraine war: Moscow claims capture of Klishchiivka near Bakhmut

Over the weekend, extreme cold weather hit Russia's temperatures falling as low as -26 Degrees Celsius. A famous ice rink on the Red Square was closed freezing temperatures and is expected not to reopen until Tuesday.

WION Climate Tracker: Temperatures fall as low as -26 Degree Celsius in Moscow

As the world is celebrating the New Years with fireworks, Russia has targeted the Ukrainian Capital Kyiv along with several other regions in the country. According to Ukrainian officials, Russia has launched dozens of missiles towards cities.

Ukraine under attack: Blasts in early hours of New Year's day; explosion hits capital Kyiv

Defence ministers of Syria, Turkiye, and Russia met in Moscow on Wednesday and the Russian defence ministry said it was the first interaction between&nbsp;Turkish and Syrian 
ministers&nbsp;since the war broke out in Syria in the year 2011.&nbsp;Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and his Turkish and Syrian counterparts, Hulusi Akar and Ali Mahmoud Abbas, discussed "ways to resolve the Syrian crisis, the problem of refugees, and joint efforts to combat extremist groups in Syria", said the Russian defence ministry in a statement. Also present at the meeting was the Syrian spy chief. 
 
The talks assume importance as both&nbsp;Russia and Turkey are engaged in Syria, with Moscow supporting Damascus against its opponents, while Ankara has been backing the rebels.

Watch |&nbsp;Turkiye, Syria, Russia defense ministers meet for first talks since 2011

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As per the Russian ministry, the meeting was "constructive", the Turkish defence ministry also echoed the sentiment and said that the meeting was held in a "constructive atmosphere", while the Syrian side said it was "positive".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-hit-by-massive-russian-strike-involving-more-than-100-missiles-547591">Russia has attacked Ukraine with over 120 missiles from air and sea, says Kyiv</a>

This meeting comes as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in recent days has repeatedly threatened to launch a military offensive against Kurdish groups in northern Syria.

As per AFP, Russia and Turkiye are both parties to the Syrian war, with Moscow supporting the Damascus regime and Ankara backing the rebels.

This was the first such formal talk between Turkiye and Syria. Earlier, the foreign ministers of the two nations had a brief informal exchange on the sidelines of a regional summit in 2021.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Defence ministers of Syria, Turkiye, and Russia met in Moscow on Wednesday and the Russian defence ministry said it was the first interaction between Turkish and Syrian ministers since the war broke out in Syria in the year 2011.

Defence ministers of Syria, Turkiye, and Russia met in Moscow on Wednesday and the Russian defence ministry said it was the first interaction between Turkish and Syrian ministers since the war broke out in Syria in the year 2011. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and his Turkish and Syrian counterparts, Hulusi Akar and Ali Mahmoud Abbas, discussed "ways to resolve the Syrian crisis, the problem of refugees, and joint efforts to combat extremist groups in Syria", said the Russian defence ministry in a statement. Also present at the meeting was the Syrian spy chief. The talks assume importance as both Russia and Turkey are engaged in Syria, with Moscow supporting Damascus against its opponents, while Ankara has been backing the rebels. Watch | Turkiye, Syria, Russia defense ministers meet for first talks since 2011 As per the Russian ministry, the meeting was "constructive", the Turkish defence ministry also echoed the sentiment and said that the meeting was held in a "constructive atmosphere", while the Syrian side said it was "positive". Also read | Russia has attacked Ukraine with over 120 missiles from air and sea, says Kyiv This meeting comes as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in recent days has repeatedly threatened to launch a military offensive against Kurdish groups in northern Syria. As per AFP, Russia and Turkiye are both parties to the Syrian war, with Moscow supporting the Damascus regime and Ankara backing the rebels. This was the first such formal talk between Turkiye and Syria. Earlier, the foreign ministers of the two nations had a brief informal exchange on the sidelines of a regional summit in 2021. (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.

Türkiye, Syria, Russia defence ministers hold ‘constructive’ talks in Moscow

The defence ministers of Russia, Turkiye and Syria met in Moscow on Wednesday, the first such talks since war broke out in Syria. It was also the first meeting between Turkish and Syrian defence ministers since the start of the war in 2011.

Defence Minister of Russia, Turkiye and Syria meets for talk after a decade

With New Year around the corner it's time to celebrate with your loved ones but how a country involved in a war with its neighbour celebrates is something that you might want to know. This report on Moscow brings you all the details.

WION Fineprint: How are Muscovites celebrating New Year?

One of the first such claims made by Moscow since it started the war nine months ago, the Russian Defense Ministry announced on Monday that its forces had shot down four US-built anti-radiation missiles over a territory of southern Russia bordering Ukraine.

Ukraine using US weaponry for offensive attacks? UK PM announces $304 million aid for Ukraine

A record amount of snowfall hit the Russian capital on Wednesday, blanketing the city with 30 centimeters of snow within 24 hours. Watch this video to know more.

WION Climate Tracker: Climate crisis leads an early snowfall in Russian capital

Despite the battlefield setbacks, Russia is preparing for a major new offensive in the new year. Moscow still intends to conquer pretty much the whole of Ukraine. The commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Army has said that it expects a fresh attack from Russian troops in the early months of 2023.

Russian missile strikes pound Ukraine cities, power cuts hits different parts

Russia fired more than 70 missiles at Ukraine in one of its biggest attacks since the war began. Friday's attack knocked power in Kharkiv forcing Kyiv to implement emergency blackouts. Watch the video to know more.

Russia Ukraine War: Moscow rains down missiles on Kyiv; latter says ' Nine power facilities hit'

A woman had a reunion with her husband at a Kyiv railway station, nine-months after she fled to Germany to fled the war in Ukraine. She and her son made it to Ukraine just in time for the traditional New Year festivities.

Russia Ukraine War: Joyful reunion at Kyiv railway station amid massive missile strikes

According to the reports, Russian firefighters are battling a fire of "7,000 square metres" that broke out overnight in a shopping centre in a Moscow suburb. Watch this video to know more.

News Alert: Massive fire breaks out at suburban shopping centre in Moscow

One dead after flames engulf suburban shopping centre in Moscow

A media report on Thursday stated that a Pakistani delegation failed to get its demand of a 30-40% discount on crude oil sanctioned from their Russian counterpart, as the latter refused any help and said that all volumes were committed.&nbsp;The delegation, consisting of State Minister for Petroleum Musadik Malik, Secretary Petroleum Capt (retd) Muhammad Mahmood, joint secretary and Pakistan Embassy officials, had requested for a discount on crude oil during their meeting in Moscow on Wednesday.

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The reports stated that the talks failed to reach a conclusion but the Russian delegation said that it will consider the demands of Pakistan in future and relay its decision through diplomatic channels. 
 
Pakistan was further asked by the Russian delegation to first fulfil its commitment towards the Russian proposed Pakistan Stream Gas Pipeline (PSGP), which will be constructed from Karachi to Lahore.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eurozone-unemployment-drops-to-all-time-low-post-pandemic-recovery-slowed-by-global-headwinds-539136">Eurozone unemployment drops to record low as global headwinds slacken economy</a> 
 
On November 29, the official delegation of Pakistan left for a three-day visit to Moscow to hold talks with Russian authorities and discuss the import of crude oil at a discount, shipment cost and mode of payment. 
 
The US had clearly stated that it has no objection if Pakistan imports Russian crude oil as currently, Washington has not issued any sanctions against Russian energy exports to other nations. 
 
Before holding talks with Russia, Finance Minister Ishaq Dar had stated that the delegation would try to reach a potential import deal with the Russian oil authorities.

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A media report on Thursday stated that a Pakistani delegation failed to get its demand of a 30-40% discount on crude oil sanctioned from their Russian counterpart, as the latter refused any help and said that all volumes were committed.

A media report on Thursday stated that a Pakistani delegation failed to get its demand of a 30-40% discount on crude oil sanctioned from their Russian counterpart, as the latter refused any help and said that all volumes were committed. The delegation, consisting of State Minister for Petroleum Musadik Malik, Secretary Petroleum Capt (retd) Muhammad Mahmood, joint secretary and Pakistan Embassy officials, had requested for a discount on crude oil during their meeting in Moscow on Wednesday. Also read | China eases Covid restrictions in Beijing, hints at possible change in stance The reports stated that the talks failed to reach a conclusion but the Russian delegation said that it will consider the demands of Pakistan in future and relay its decision through diplomatic channels. Pakistan was further asked by the Russian delegation to first fulfil its commitment towards the Russian proposed Pakistan Stream Gas Pipeline (PSGP), which will be constructed from Karachi to Lahore. Also read | Eurozone unemployment drops to record low as global headwinds slacken economy On November 29, the official delegation of Pakistan left for a three-day visit to Moscow to hold talks with Russian authorities and discuss the import of crude oil at a discount, shipment cost and mode of payment. The US had clearly stated that it has no objection if Pakistan imports Russian crude oil as currently, Washington has not issued any sanctions against Russian energy exports to other nations. Before holding talks with Russia, Finance Minister Ishaq Dar had stated that the delegation would try to reach a potential import deal with the Russian oil authorities.

Pakistan’s hopes dashed, delegation fails to get crude oil on discount from Moscow

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