The crucial Moscow format summit on the Afghanistan crisis is underway, representatives of 10 countries are in attendance and so is the Taliban administration. As Moscow holds the meet over the Afghan crisis, Sergey Lavrov, Russian Foreign Minister stated that he recognises Taliban's efforts.

Moscow summit on Afghanistan situation held in Russia, threat of ISIS flagged as a major concern

The crucial Moscow format summit on the Afghanistan crisis was held today in Russia, representatives of 10 countries were in attendance and so was the Taliban administration. As Moscow holds the meet over the Afghan crisis, Sergey Lavrov, Russian Foreign Minister stated that he recognises the Taliban's efforts.

Russian FM Sergey Lavrov addresses Moscow meet; summit to explore inclusive govt, prevent crises

The crucial Moscow format summit on the Afghanistan situation was held in Russia today, representatives of 10 countries were in attendance and so was the Taliban delegation. The agenda entailed the formation of an inclusive government and consolidating international partners towards preventing humanitarian and economic crises.

Moscow Meet: Taliban looks forward to secure international recognition

The crucial Moscow format summit on the Afghanistan crisis is underway. Representatives of 10 countries are in attendance so is the Taliban administration, Anas Mallick brings you more.

Afghanistan crisis: Moscow format meeting underway, Taliban gets an invitation

India is participating in the Moscow Format meeting on Afghanistan on 20th October, 2021. The meeting will be attended by the representatives of 10 countries, including Russia, China, Pakistan, India, Afghanistan’s neighbouring countries in Central Asia and a high-level delegation from Taliban.&nbsp;

This is the first meeting of the Moscow Format being held since the Taliban captured power by force on 15th August this year, and also the first collective interaction between the Taliban and regional players since then. The meeting therefore should provide an important opportunity to convey the expectations of the international community from Taliban and listen to the Taliban’s perspective and if possible lay a road map for the stabilisation of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The invitation to India and India’s acceptance are significant in more than one sense. For the first time India would be face-to-face with Taliban delegation within the Moscow format, and it is second &nbsp;officially &nbsp;acknowledged interaction with Taliban since the formation of an interim government in Kabul.

The first interaction took place when Taliban’s representative Stanekzai met India’s Ambassador to Qatar, at the Indian Embassy in Doha on August 31. The meeting was projected as one with limited objective of the safe evacuation of the Indian nationals from Afghanistan and to convey India’s concerns over the presence of anti-India terror outfits in Afghanistan.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/two-months-of-taliban-20-challenges-and-threats-420937">Two months of Taliban 2.0: Challenges and threats</a>

It is noteworthy that India has been invited to participate in a dialogue with Taliban, despite the known fact that India has questioned the legitimacy of the interim government in Kabul, and expressed its serious apprehensions over the possible misuse of the Afghan soil for acts of terrorism in the region and beyond.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/why-is-taliban-interior-minister-haqqanis-face-being-blurred-in-public-photographs-422333">Why is Taliban interior minister Haqqani's face being blurred in public photographs?</a>

The invitation therefore reflects the acknowledgement on the part of other regional players that India can play an important role in the stabilisation of the situation in Afghanistan, and it cannot be excluded from any collective processes which aim at handling the situation arising out of the Taliban’s take-over.

From India’s perspective, the participation in Moscow Format is justified for more than one reason.&nbsp;

Firstly, the agenda of the Moscow Format meeting as revealed by the Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, is in tune with India’s own priorities and also in line with the demands placed on Taliban through the UNSC Resolution 2593 of 30th August.&nbsp;

For instance, Lavrov was reported to have said,"We encourage them (Taliban) &nbsp;to live up to the promises they made when they came to power, including ensuring that the government is inclusive not only along the ethnic lines, but also along the political lines, so that the full range of political beliefs of the society is reflected in the government's composition”. &nbsp;

He further said that the meeting would focus on the developments related to the political and security situation in Afghanistan, and on the consolidation of the efforts by the international community to prevent humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. Significantly, Lavrov is also reported to have said that the recognition of the Taliban-led government in Kabul was not on the agenda.

Further, and perhaps more importantly, India remained by and large excluded from the processes which were meant to shape the future road-map of Afghanistan, even though India made a valuable contribution towards the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan by investing over $3bn in nearly 500 big and small infrastructure projects during the tenure of the elected governments in Afghanistan. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-us-military-presence-in-the-middle-east-the-less-the-better-420728">Opinion | US military presence in the Middle East: The less the better</a>

Despite being a strategic partner of the USA, India was not kept informed on certain aspects of the deal which the Trump Administration struck with the Taliban on 29th February, 2020. Being a part of the Moscow Format therefore offers an opportunity to stay in the game and remain relevant in a strategic space where India’s adversaries namely Pakistan and China appear to have an edge at this point of time.

It is abundantly clear that India has no intention to sit on the fence and watch in silence, which can only deprive it of the chance to influence the future course of developments in Afghanistan. It must be underlined in this context that India has reportedly invited the National Security Advisors of the countries in the region including China, Russia, Pakistan, Tajikistan etc. for a meeting on Afghanistan in November this year.

In short India appears to have taken a right decision to participate in the Moscow Format meeting; it would be erroneous to interpret it as softening of India’s attitude towards Taliban or dilution of its principled stand or as a prelude to its recognition of the Taliban-led government in Kabul. It may, however, not be easy for India to push its point of view in the presence of Pakistan and China. The absence of the USA (which has decided to pull out of the meeting for the time being) would also mean the absence of support from a like-minded partner, though it would not be easy for the adversaries also to sideline India, considering that India can persist on its own and also count on the support from Russia and Iran and some Central Asian countries.

It would be interesting to watch the outcome of the Moscow Format meeting even if it is unlikely to resolve all the issues at hand.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

India is participating in the Moscow Format meeting on Afghanistan on 20th October, 2021. The meeting will be attended by the representatives of 10 countries, including Russia, China, Pakistan, India, Afghanistan’s neighbouring countries in Central Asia and a high-level delegation from Taliban.

India is participating in the Moscow Format meeting on Afghanistan on 20th October, 2021. The meeting will be attended by the representatives of 10 countries, including Russia, China, Pakistan, India, Afghanistan’s neighbouring countries in Central Asia and a high-level delegation from Taliban. This is the first meeting of the Moscow Format being held since the Taliban captured power by force on 15th August this year, and also the first collective interaction between the Taliban and regional players since then. The meeting therefore should provide an important opportunity to convey the expectations of the international community from Taliban and listen to the Taliban’s perspective and if possible lay a road map for the stabilisation of Afghanistan. The invitation to India and India’s acceptance are significant in more than one sense. For the first time India would be face-to-face with Taliban delegation within the Moscow format, and it is second officially acknowledged interaction with Taliban since the formation of an interim government in Kabul. The first interaction took place when Taliban’s representative Stanekzai met India’s Ambassador to Qatar, at the Indian Embassy in Doha on August 31. The meeting was projected as one with limited objective of the safe evacuation of the Indian nationals from Afghanistan and to convey India’s concerns over the presence of anti-India terror outfits in Afghanistan. Also Read | Two months of Taliban 2.0: Challenges and threats It is noteworthy that India has been invited to participate in a dialogue with Taliban, despite the known fact that India has questioned the legitimacy of the interim government in Kabul, and expressed its serious apprehensions over the possible misuse of the Afghan soil for acts of terrorism in the region and beyond. Also Read | Why is Taliban interior minister Haqqani's face being blurred in public photographs? The invitation therefore reflects the acknowledgement on the part of other regional players that India can play an important role in the stabilisation of the situation in Afghanistan, and it cannot be excluded from any collective processes which aim at handling the situation arising out of the Taliban’s take-over. From India’s perspective, the participation in Moscow Format is justified for more than one reason. Firstly, the agenda of the Moscow Format meeting as revealed by the Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, is in tune with India’s own priorities and also in line with the demands placed on Taliban through the UNSC Resolution 2593 of 30th August. For instance, Lavrov was reported to have said,"We encourage them (Taliban) to live up to the promises they made when they came to power, including ensuring that the government is inclusive not only along the ethnic lines, but also along the political lines, so that the full range of political beliefs of the society is reflected in the government's composition”. He further said that the meeting would focus on the developments related to the political and security situation in Afghanistan, and on the consolidation of the efforts by the international community to prevent humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. Significantly, Lavrov is also reported to have said that the recognition of the Taliban-led government in Kabul was not on the agenda. Further, and perhaps more importantly, India remained by and large excluded from the processes which were meant to shape the future road-map of Afghanistan, even though India made a valuable contribution towards the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan by investing over $3bn in nearly 500 big and small infrastructure projects during the tenure of the elected governments in Afghanistan. Also Read | Opinion | US military presence in the Middle East: The less the better Despite being a strategic partner of the USA, India was not kept informed on certain aspects of the deal which the Trump Administration struck with the Taliban on 29th February, 2020. Being a part of the Moscow Format therefore offers an opportunity to stay in the game and remain relevant in a strategic space where India’s adversaries namely Pakistan and China appear to have an edge at this point of time. It is abundantly clear that India has no intention to sit on the fence and watch in silence, which can only deprive it of the chance to influence the future course of developments in Afghanistan. It must be underlined in this context that India has reportedly invited the National Security Advisors of the countries in the region including China, Russia, Pakistan, Tajikistan etc. for a meeting on Afghanistan in November this year. In short India appears to have taken a right decision to participate in the Moscow Format meeting; it would be erroneous to interpret it as softening of India’s attitude towards Taliban or dilution of its principled stand or as a prelude to its recognition of the Taliban-led government in Kabul. It may, however, not be easy for India to push its point of view in the presence of Pakistan and China. The absence of the USA (which has decided to pull out of the meeting for the time being) would also mean the absence of support from a like-minded partner, though it would not be easy for the adversaries also to sideline India, considering that India can persist on its own and also count on the support from Russia and Iran and some Central Asian countries. It would be interesting to watch the outcome of the Moscow Format meeting even if it is unlikely to resolve all the issues at hand. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | Moscow talks are a chance for India to influence Afghan situation

Troika plus meeting in Moscow on the Afghanistan situation has been concluded. According to a Russian foreign ministry statement, Russia, China and Pakistan have agreed to provide humanitarian aid and economic support to Afghanistan.

Troika plus meeting: Russia, China and Pak agree to give aid for Afghanistan

Russia on Wednesday called&nbsp;for humanitarian support to Afghanistan as it hosted the Taliban for an international conference. Russia regretted that the US was not part of the discussion. Washington has skipped the Moscow meeting citing technical reasons but has said it plans to join similar talks in the future.

“We are convinced that it is time to mobilise the resources of the international community to provide Kabul with effective financial humanitarian support, including to prevent a humanitarian crisis and reduce migration flows," Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told reporters before the start of talks with Taliban, Chinese and Pakistani officials.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sirajuddin-haqqani-top-taliban-minister-praises-suicide-bombers-422088">Sirajuddin Haqqani, top Taliban minister, praises suicide bombers</a>

Russia's keenness to hold talks is partly inspired by its attempt to fill the power vacuum created by withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan. Russia fears that any instability in Afghanistan may spill over to central Asian countries which were part of the Soviet Union.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/under-taliban-kabuls-drug-addicts-forced-into-withdrawal-422264">Under Taliban, Kabul's drug addicts forced into withdrawal</a>

Moscow is also concerned about possible flow of migrant flow.

“We call on the Taliban movement – and we discussed this with their distinguished delegation - to prevent the use of Afghanistan’s territory against third countries, most importantly neighbours," Lavrov said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-two-people-injured-in-explosion-in-kabuls-dehmazang-locality-422311">Afghanistan: Two people injured in explosion in Kabul's Dehmazang locality</a>

Russia fought its own war in Afghanistan in the 1980s and has close military and political ties with former Soviet Central Asian states that border Afghanistan.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Wednesday called for humanitarian support to Afghanistan as it hosted the Taliban for an international conference. Russia regretted that the US was not part of the discussion.

Russia on Wednesday called for humanitarian support to Afghanistan as it hosted the Taliban for an international conference. Russia regretted that the US was not part of the discussion. Washington has skipped the Moscow meeting citing technical reasons but has said it plans to join similar talks in the future. “We are convinced that it is time to mobilise the resources of the international community to provide Kabul with effective financial humanitarian support, including to prevent a humanitarian crisis and reduce migration flows," Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told reporters before the start of talks with Taliban, Chinese and Pakistani officials. Also Read | Sirajuddin Haqqani, top Taliban minister, praises suicide bombers Russia's keenness to hold talks is partly inspired by its attempt to fill the power vacuum created by withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan. Russia fears that any instability in Afghanistan may spill over to central Asian countries which were part of the Soviet Union. Also Read | Under Taliban, Kabul's drug addicts forced into withdrawal Moscow is also concerned about possible flow of migrant flow. “We call on the Taliban movement – and we discussed this with their distinguished delegation - to prevent the use of Afghanistan’s territory against third countries, most importantly neighbours," Lavrov said. Also Read | Afghanistan: Two people injured in explosion in Kabul's Dehmazang locality Russia fought its own war in Afghanistan in the 1980s and has close military and political ties with former Soviet Central Asian states that border Afghanistan. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan: Russia calls for humanitarian aid as it hosts Taliban

Russia announced fresh talks on the crisis unfolding in Afghanistan. Moscow, Washington D.C, Beijing, and Islamabad were all set to meet but, the United States has now decided to skip it citing logistical reasons. Watch Anas Mallick giving more details on the topic.

Regional powers engage with new rulers of Afghanistan

The Troika plus meeting in Moscow on the Afghanistan situation will have two noteworthy absentees- the United States and Afghanistan. Washington has cited logistical issues for not being able to attend the meet.

Troika Plus Meet: India to attend meet; US welcomes move, pulls out for 'logistical reasons'

Russia announced fresh talks on the crisis unfolding in Afghanistan. Moscow, Washington D.C, Beijing, and Islamabad were all set to meet but the United States has now decided to skip it citing logistical reasons.

Taliban, China, Pakistan and Russia set to hold talks

The Troika plus meeting in Moscow on the Afghanistan situation will have two noteworthy absentees- the United States and Afghanistan.

Troika plus meeting in Moscow today, United States can't confirm participation

Russia announced fresh talks on the crisis unfolding in Afghanistan. Moscow, Washington DC, Beijing ad Islamabad were all set to meet, however, United States decided to skip it citing logistical reasons. For more analysis on the Indian PM's speech, Dilip Sinha, a former envoy to UN joins for an exclusive conversation.

Dilip Sinha, former envoy to UN in conversation with WION on PM Modi's message to the Taliban & more

Russia announced fresh talks on the crisis unfolding in Afghanistan. Moscow, Washington DC, Beijing ad Islamabad were all set to meet, however, United States decided to skip it citing logistical reasons.

Afghanistan | 'We're not in a position take part,' US cites issues for skipping Moscow talks

The 'Moscow format' meet on Afghanistan is scheduled to take place on October 20th in the Russian capital. This is the first edition of the dialogue - since the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan. According to sources - Former president Hamid Karzai and head of the national reconciliation high council Abdullah Abdullah have been invited to the summit. The two Afghan leaders have been invited as political influencers. This comes as calls for an inclusive government in Afghanistan grow louder.

'Moscow format' meet on Afghanistan scheduled for October 20th

India is all set to participate in the 'Moscow Format' meeting on Afghanistan. The meet is scheduled to take place on the 20th of October in the Russian capital.

Russia calls for 'Moscow Format' meeting on Afghanistan

A exhibition has opened at KGB's official museum in Moscow that gives people a glimpse of the Soviet Union's past.

Russia: KGB's official museum open its doors

After expelling officials from Moscow for alleged spying NATO secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg has said that relations between Russia and NATO are at their "Lowest point since the end of the cold war" and that's because of the russian behaviour."

NATO secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg speaks on relations between Russia and NATO

India and Russia have decided to coordinate their strategies on Afghanistan. Moscow is concerned about instability in Central Asia, while New Delhi worries about Pak-sponsored terror in South Asia. Palki Sharma tells you more about this strategic convergence.

Gravitas: India, Russia to contain Afghan terror threat

Russia is preparing for supremacy in Arctic region where melting ice and receding ice cover are creating new waterways. Russia is pinning its ambition on a fleet of giant nuclear-powered icebreakers.

Russia sees development of the Arctic as a historic mission. It already has huge projects to exploit its natural resources.

Its next big plan is for year-round use of the Northern Sea Route, a shipping lane through Arctic waters Russia hopes could rival the Suez Canal.

This summer an icebreaker called fleet of giant nuclear-powered icebreakers. Its captain told AFP that Russia had special role to play in the Arctic.

"A third of our territory lies above the Arctic Circle. Our ancestors have long mastered frozen waters. We are continuing this successfully," Dmitry Lobusov said.

President Vladimir Putin has made the development of the Arctic a strategic priority and state companies such as Gazprom Neft, Norilsk Nickel and Rosneft already have major projects in the Arctic to extract oil, gas and minerals.

"The Arctic region has enormous potential," Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said earlier this month.

"In terms of resources, we're talking about 15 billion tonnes of oil and 100 trillion cubic metres of gas. Enough for tens if not hundreds of years," he said.

The Northern Sea Route links the Pacific to the Atlantic through Russian Arctic waters.

It is not currently navigable year-round without the help of icebreakers, though in summer some specialised classes of ships can pass through.&nbsp;

With the ice cover receding, Moscow is aiming for year-round navigation by 2030. &nbsp;

The route between east Asia and Europe is considerably shorter than through the Suez Canal.&nbsp;

When a huge container ship blocked the busy Suez shipping lane in March, Moscow touted the Northern Sea passage as a "viable alternative".

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia is preparing for supremacy in Arctic region where melting ice and receding ice cover are creating new waterways. Russia is pinning its ambition on a fleet of giant nuclear-powered icebreakers.

Russia is preparing for supremacy in Arctic region where melting ice and receding ice cover are creating new waterways. Russia is pinning its ambition on a fleet of giant nuclear-powered icebreakers. Russia sees development of the Arctic as a historic mission. It already has huge projects to exploit its natural resources. Its next big plan is for year-round use of the Northern Sea Route, a shipping lane through Arctic waters Russia hopes could rival the Suez Canal. This summer an icebreaker called fleet of giant nuclear-powered icebreakers. Its captain told AFP that Russia had special role to play in the Arctic. "A third of our territory lies above the Arctic Circle. Our ancestors have long mastered frozen waters. We are continuing this successfully," Dmitry Lobusov said. President Vladimir Putin has made the development of the Arctic a strategic priority and state companies such as Gazprom Neft, Norilsk Nickel and Rosneft already have major projects in the Arctic to extract oil, gas and minerals. "The Arctic region has enormous potential," Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said earlier this month. "In terms of resources, we're talking about 15 billion tonnes of oil and 100 trillion cubic metres of gas. Enough for tens if not hundreds of years," he said. The Northern Sea Route links the Pacific to the Atlantic through Russian Arctic waters. It is not currently navigable year-round without the help of icebreakers, though in summer some specialised classes of ships can pass through. With the ice cover receding, Moscow is aiming for year-round navigation by 2030. The route between east Asia and Europe is considerably shorter than through the Suez Canal. When a huge container ship blocked the busy Suez shipping lane in March, Moscow touted the Northern Sea passage as a "viable alternative". (With inputs from agencies)

Moscow flexes muscle in Arctic region with nuclear icebreaker fleet

Bright colours, flowers and unusual architectural elements have turned the Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve in Moscow into an open-air exhibition. There are twelve landscape compositions presented at the 4th annual festival of historical gardens.

Landscape festival attempts to define the ultimate Russian garden

The&nbsp;brother&nbsp;of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei&nbsp;Navalny&nbsp;was sentenced on Friday to a one-year&nbsp;suspended&nbsp;sentence&nbsp;for breaching coronavirus regulations earlier this year.

Along with several other opposition figures, Oleg&nbsp;Navalny, 38, was accused of calling for Russians to attend an unsanctioned rally in January in support of his&nbsp;brother, who had returned to&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;after being treated in Germany for a near-fatal poisoning attack.

Moscow's Preobrazhensky district court on Friday also slapped a&nbsp;Navalny&nbsp;ally, Nikolai Lyaskin, with a year of restricted movement in the same case.

The 39-year-old activist said that the court had banned him from leaving his home between 10 pm and 6 am as well as from attending mass events and leaving Moscow.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-blocks-websites-linked-to-kremlin-critic-khodorkovsky-403055">Also read |&nbsp;Russia blocks websites linked to Kremlin critic Khodorkovsky</a>

Russia's opposition says authorities have stepped up a campaign of intimidation against dissenters ahead of a parliamentary vote in September, allegations the Kremlin has rejected.&nbsp;

In June,&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;declared&nbsp;Navalny's organisations extremist and barred his allies from running in the polls.

Earlier this week a court sentenced another key&nbsp;Navalny&nbsp;ally, Lyubov Sobol, to a year and a half of restricted movement in the same case.&nbsp;

In 2014, Alexei and Oleg&nbsp;Navalny&nbsp;were convicted in a fraud trial related to their work for French cosmetics company Yves Rocher.

While the opposition politician received a three-and-a-half-year&nbsp;suspended&nbsp;sentence, his&nbsp;brother&nbsp;was jailed for the same amount of time in a move activists compared to hostage taking. Oleg&nbsp;Navalny&nbsp;served out his&nbsp;sentence&nbsp;in full and was freed in 2018.

Alexei&nbsp;Navalny, 45, who survived a near fatal poisoning with a Soviet-designed nerve agent last summer, was imprisoned in February for two-and-a-half-years on old embezzlement charges.

The brother of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny was sentenced on Friday to a one-year suspended sentence for breaching coronavirus regulations earlier this year.

The brother of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny was sentenced on Friday to a one-year suspended sentence for breaching coronavirus regulations earlier this year. Along with several other opposition figures, Oleg Navalny, 38, was accused of calling for Russians to attend an unsanctioned rally in January in support of his brother, who had returned to Russia after being treated in Germany for a near-fatal poisoning attack. Moscow's Preobrazhensky district court on Friday also slapped a Navalny ally, Nikolai Lyaskin, with a year of restricted movement in the same case. The 39-year-old activist said that the court had banned him from leaving his home between 10 pm and 6 am as well as from attending mass events and leaving Moscow. Also read | Russia blocks websites linked to Kremlin critic Khodorkovsky Russia's opposition says authorities have stepped up a campaign of intimidation against dissenters ahead of a parliamentary vote in September, allegations the Kremlin has rejected. In June, Russia declared Navalny's organisations extremist and barred his allies from running in the polls. Earlier this week a court sentenced another key Navalny ally, Lyubov Sobol, to a year and a half of restricted movement in the same case. In 2014, Alexei and Oleg Navalny were convicted in a fraud trial related to their work for French cosmetics company Yves Rocher. While the opposition politician received a three-and-a-half-year suspended sentence, his brother was jailed for the same amount of time in a move activists compared to hostage taking. Oleg Navalny served out his sentence in full and was freed in 2018. Alexei Navalny, 45, who survived a near fatal poisoning with a Soviet-designed nerve agent last summer, was imprisoned in February for two-and-a-half-years on old embezzlement charges.

Russia hands Navalny's brother suspended sentence

At&nbsp;least&nbsp;10&nbsp;people were killed after a passenger van suspected of transporting two dozen undocumented migrants was in a&nbsp;Texas&nbsp;road&nbsp;accident, state officials and a witness said Wednesday.

Texas&nbsp;Department of Public Security (DPS) troopers said in a statement they were investigating a "major crash"&nbsp;near&nbsp;Falfurrias, a few miles from the Mexican&nbsp;border&nbsp;in the state's southeast.

A Ford passenger van was speeding north on a highway when, according to a witness, around 4 pm (2100 GMT) the driver "veered off the roadway, striking a metal utility pole and a stop sign.

"The driver and nine passengers were pronounced deceased at the scene of the crash," the&nbsp;Texas&nbsp;Highway Patrol said in a statement.

Brooks County Sheriff Urbino Martinez said there were 30 people in the vehicle at the time of the&nbsp;accident, according to the New York Times.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-agent-used-photos-of-female-staff-as-bait-in-a-sex-trafficking-sting-402927">Also read |&nbsp;FBI agent used photos of female staff as bait in a sex trafficking sting</a>

"It appears that they are undocumented immigrants, but we have to work with consulates," DPS spokesman Sergeant Nathan Brandley told AFP.

Earlier the DPS said that 20 people had been transferred to hospital following the crash.

Smugglers often use overcrowded vehicles to ship migrants from the&nbsp;border.

In March, an alleged smuggler was charged after 13 people died in a collision between a heavy truck and a crowded vehicle in southern California.&nbsp;

Migrant arrivals to the United States had declined markedly at the onset of the pandemic but began to pick up slightly in 2020, before surging since President Joe Biden took office.

Republicans accuse Biden of causing the spike in arrivals by relaxing the draconian migration policies imposed by his predecessor Donald Trump.

At least 10 people were killed after a passenger van suspected of transporting two dozen undocumented migrants was in a Texas road accident, state officials and a witness said Wednesday.

At least 10 people were killed after a passenger van suspected of transporting two dozen undocumented migrants was in a Texas road accident, state officials and a witness said Wednesday. Texas Department of Public Security (DPS) troopers said in a statement they were investigating a "major crash" near Falfurrias, a few miles from the Mexican border in the state's southeast. A Ford passenger van was speeding north on a highway when, according to a witness, around 4 pm (2100 GMT) the driver "veered off the roadway, striking a metal utility pole and a stop sign. "The driver and nine passengers were pronounced deceased at the scene of the crash," the Texas Highway Patrol said in a statement. Brooks County Sheriff Urbino Martinez said there were 30 people in the vehicle at the time of the accident, according to the New York Times. Also read | FBI agent used photos of female staff as bait in a sex trafficking sting "It appears that they are undocumented immigrants, but we have to work with consulates," DPS spokesman Sergeant Nathan Brandley told AFP. Earlier the DPS said that 20 people had been transferred to hospital following the crash. Smugglers often use overcrowded vehicles to ship migrants from the border. In March, an alleged smuggler was charged after 13 people died in a collision between a heavy truck and a crowded vehicle in southern California. Migrant arrivals to the United States had declined markedly at the onset of the pandemic but began to pick up slightly in 2020, before surging since President Joe Biden took office. Republicans accuse Biden of causing the spike in arrivals by relaxing the draconian migration policies imposed by his predecessor Donald Trump.

At least 10 dead in Texas road accident near Mexico border

Russia's capital city Moscow may have a serious competitor. A bustling metropolis has been built in Zvenigorod on the city's outskirts and it's got plans to expand. But Muscovites shouldn't be worried, as this new city is only 55 square metres big, and it's made out of Lego.

Vast Lego city built on outskirts of Moscow

The Kremlin said on Wednesday that US&nbsp;President Joe Biden's assessment of Russia as only having nuclear weapons and oil was wide of the mark and betrayed a lack of knowledge about the country.

Biden made the remark on Tuesday during a speech in which he warned that if the United States ended up in a "real shooting war" with a "major power" it could be the result of a significant cyber attack on the country, highlighting what Washington sees as growing threats posed by Russia and China.

Biden boasted that the US&nbsp;intelligence services were superior to their Russian counterparts and said Putin had "a real problem."

"... He’s sitting on top of an economy that has nuclear weapons and oil wells and nothing else. Nothing else. Their economy is, what?, the eighth smallest in the world now, largest in the world? He knows he’s in real trouble, which makes him even more dangerous, in my view," said Biden.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said it looked as though Biden, who gave the speech while visiting the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), had tailored his message for his country's intelligence community and wanted to make an impression.

Peskov said the United States was an opponent of Russia even though efforts to normalise ties were underway. Senior US&nbsp;and Russian officials began talks on Wednesday on strategic nuclear stability.

Peskov also rejected Biden's allegations that Russia was already interfering in the United States' 2022 mid-term elections.

The Kremlin said on Wednesday that US President Joe Biden's assessment of Russia as only having nuclear weapons and oil was wide of the mark and betrayed a lack of knowledge about the country.

The Kremlin said on Wednesday that US President Joe Biden's assessment of Russia as only having nuclear weapons and oil was wide of the mark and betrayed a lack of knowledge about the country. Biden made the remark on Tuesday during a speech in which he warned that if the United States ended up in a "real shooting war" with a "major power" it could be the result of a significant cyber attack on the country, highlighting what Washington sees as growing threats posed by Russia and China. Biden boasted that the US intelligence services were superior to their Russian counterparts and said Putin had "a real problem." "... He’s sitting on top of an economy that has nuclear weapons and oil wells and nothing else. Nothing else. Their economy is, what?, the eighth smallest in the world now, largest in the world? He knows he’s in real trouble, which makes him even more dangerous, in my view," said Biden. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said it looked as though Biden, who gave the speech while visiting the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), had tailored his message for his country's intelligence community and wanted to make an impression. Peskov said the United States was an opponent of Russia even though efforts to normalise ties were underway. Senior US and Russian officials began talks on Wednesday on strategic nuclear stability. Peskov also rejected Biden's allegations that Russia was already interfering in the United States' 2022 mid-term elections.

Kremlin says Biden is wrong to say that Russia only has nuclear weapons and oil

US climate envoy John Kerry and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met in Moscow to discuss climate change. The two leaders said they will cooperate on the issues of common concern despite strangulations.

Lavrov-Kerry Meet: Leaders say they will cooperate on climate crisis

Russia on Tuesday reported the highest <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-government-embarking-on-dangerous-and-unethical-experiment-says-lancet-on-july-19-reopening-plans-397870">coronavirus</a> fatalities since the pandemic began with over 24,700 COVID-19 cases.

The death toll due to the virus in 24 hours rose to 780 as the country grapples with the virus.&nbsp;Health officials say the Delta variant is the dominant strain in Russia.

The country's capital Moscow which has been the epicentre of the virus reported nearly 5,000 cases.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-cases-is-again-surging-in-russia-and-these-are-the-reasons-395788/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The vaccination drive in the country has been running slowly with just 13 per cent of the population reportedly being&nbsp;vaccinated although the country had unveiled the Sputnik V vaccine last August.

There have been 144,492 casualties due to the virus in Russia with 5,783,333 cases.

On Sunday the country had reported over 25,000 COVID-19 cases with 5,410 reported in capital Moscow and 749 deaths.

Moscow's mayor Sergei Sobyanin had said earlier that the situation was stabilising although hospitalisations was still high as the country continued to combat the contagious Delta variant.

The Russian capital has ramped up its vaccination drive with 100,000 people being inoculated daily. Moscow's mayor had said last weekend that at least 3.5 million Muscovites would receive at least the first dose of the vaccine.

Authorities in Moscow have ordered only vaccinated people to visit restaurants.&nbsp;

Reports say at least 66 per cent of the cases since early July have been linked to the Delta variant as the country battles the third wave. The latest wave has come as the country has been hit by a massive heatwave.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Russia on Tuesday reported the highest coronavirus fatalities since the pandemic began with over 24,700 COVID-19 cases. The death toll due to the virus in 24 hours rose to 780 as the country grapples with the virus.

Russia on Tuesday reported the highest coronavirus fatalities since the pandemic began with over 24,700 COVID-19 cases. The death toll due to the virus in 24 hours rose to 780 as the country grapples with the virus. Health officials say the Delta variant is the dominant strain in Russia. The country's capital Moscow which has been the epicentre of the virus reported nearly 5,000 cases. Watch: The vaccination drive in the country has been running slowly with just 13 per cent of the population reportedly being vaccinated although the country had unveiled the Sputnik V vaccine last August. There have been 144,492 casualties due to the virus in Russia with 5,783,333 cases. On Sunday the country had reported over 25,000 COVID-19 cases with 5,410 reported in capital Moscow and 749 deaths. Moscow's mayor Sergei Sobyanin had said earlier that the situation was stabilising although hospitalisations was still high as the country continued to combat the contagious Delta variant. The Russian capital has ramped up its vaccination drive with 100,000 people being inoculated daily. Moscow's mayor had said last weekend that at least 3.5 million Muscovites would receive at least the first dose of the vaccine. Authorities in Moscow have ordered only vaccinated people to visit restaurants. Reports say at least 66 per cent of the cases since early July have been linked to the Delta variant as the country battles the third wave. The latest wave has come as the country has been hit by a massive heatwave. (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia reports highest daily COVID-19 death toll amid third wave

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-regions-run-low-on-vaccines-as-covid-19-cases-jump-394148">Russia </a>reported over 21,650&nbsp;coronavirus cases which was the highest since January amid the European Championship matches as capital Moscow continued to witness virus surge.

The Russian capital which has been the epicentre of the virus since last year recorded over 7,200 cases and 124 deaths in the last 24 hours with St. Petersburg which is set to host the European Championships quarter-final on Friday recording&nbsp;1,335 new cases and 110 fatalities.

Watch:

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Authorities in Moscow tightened restrictions allowing only <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-anti-vaxxers-are-rushing-to-buy-fake-covid-19-jab-certificates-in-russia-393907">vaccinated</a> people to be served in cafes as authorities scrambled to combat the virus.

Reports say hospitalisation and patients in ICU have grown exponentially as Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said the situation was "extremely difficult".

The Moscow mayor had earlier said the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=+Russia+registers+record+high+COVID-19+cases%2C+deaths">Delta </a>variant was the dominant strain in the capital.

Saint Petersburg which has hosted six Euro 2020 matches is set to host the quarter-final encounter on Friday with health officials worried over the virus numbers.

Russia has reportedly inoculated just over 21 million people in a population of 146 million as Moscow authorities ordered mandatory jabs for service sector employees.

However, reports said several regions in Russia have been experiencing a shortage of vaccines despite the country having produced the Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine in August last year.

Russia has over 5.5 million coronavirus cases with 133,893 deaths due to the virus. On Sunday, the country had reported 619 fatalities which was the highest since December last year.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Russia reported over 21,650 coronavirus cases which was the highest since January amid the European Championship matches as capital Moscow continued to witness virus surge.

Russia reported over 21,650 coronavirus cases which was the highest since January amid the European Championship matches as capital Moscow continued to witness virus surge. The Russian capital which has been the epicentre of the virus since last year recorded over 7,200 cases and 124 deaths in the last 24 hours with St. Petersburg which is set to host the European Championships quarter-final on Friday recording 1,335 new cases and 110 fatalities. Watch: Authorities in Moscow tightened restrictions allowing only vaccinated people to be served in cafes as authorities scrambled to combat the virus. Reports say hospitalisation and patients in ICU have grown exponentially as Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said the situation was "extremely difficult". The Moscow mayor had earlier said the Delta variant was the dominant strain in the capital. Saint Petersburg which has hosted six Euro 2020 matches is set to host the quarter-final encounter on Friday with health officials worried over the virus numbers. Russia has reportedly inoculated just over 21 million people in a population of 146 million as Moscow authorities ordered mandatory jabs for service sector employees. However, reports said several regions in Russia have been experiencing a shortage of vaccines despite the country having produced the Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine in August last year. Russia has over 5.5 million coronavirus cases with 133,893 deaths due to the virus. On Sunday, the country had reported 619 fatalities which was the highest since December last year. (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia: Moscow, St. Petersburg register record COVID-19 fatalities

Moscow on Sunday recorded the worst daily coronavirus death toll so far for a Russian city, as countries across the Asia-Pacific region extended or reimposed restrictions to tackle fresh waves of infections.

The pandemic has now killed close to four million people across the world but vaccination drives have brought down infection numbers in many wealthy countries, though the Delta strain of the virus remains a concern.

The variant is now in 85 countries and is the most contagious of any Covid-19 strain identified, according to the World Health Organization.

Still, in much of Europe and the United States curbs on daily life are easing as vaccination programmes bear fruit, although Russia is grappling with a deadly third wave.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-airs-old-election-grievances-at-campaign-style-rally-394254">Also Read |&nbsp;Trump airs old election grievances at campaign-style rally</a>

The Russian capital on Sunday recorded 144 Covid-19 deaths in the last 24 hours, a day after Saint Petersburg set the previous highest figure.

Saint Petersburg has hosted six Euro 2020 matches and is due to host a quarter-final on Friday, with spectator numbers capped at half but still upwards of 26,000 people.

Russia as a whole has seen an explosion of new infections since mid-June driven by the Delta variant.

The dramatic rise in cases comes as officials in Moscow are pushing vaccine-sceptical Russians to get inoculated after lifting most anti-virus restrictions late last year.

"To stop the pandemic, one thing is needed: rapid, large-scale vaccinations. Nobody has invented any other solution," Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin told state-run television on Saturday.

'Up in smoke'

The Delta variant is also feeding fresh outbreaks in Southeast Asia and Australia where authorities have brought back or prolonged restrictions.

More than five million Sydney residents endured their first full day of a two-week lockdown Sunday to contain an outbreak of the strain.

Restaurants, bars and cafes were shuttered and stay-at-home orders were issued, leaving the city centre virtually deserted.

"Given how contagious this strain of&nbsp;the virus is, we do anticipate that&nbsp;in the next few days case numbers&nbsp;are likely to increase even beyond&nbsp;what we have seen today," New South Wales state Premier Gladys Berejiklian said.

More than 110 Covid-19 cases have been reported in Sydney since a driver for an international flight crew tested positive in mid-June for the Delta variant.

The flare-up has been a shock for a place that had returned to relative normality after months with few local cases.

Professional musician Blain Cunneen, 27, said his work -- performing gigs, studio sessions and teaching students -- had gone "up in smoke" overnight.

"All that was starting to operate again almost as normal... very suddenly overnight I got a bunch of emails and texts about everything being cancelled," he told AFP.

Australia's northern city of Darwin also entered a separate snap 48-hour lockdown on Sunday after a handful of cases were linked to a coronavirus outbreak on a remote gold mine.

"The Northern Territory is now facing its biggest threat since the Covid crisis began," Northern Territory Chief Minister Michael Gunner said.

Restrictions reimposed

Similar spikes in infections have recently been seen across Southeast Asia.&nbsp;

Thailand will from Monday reimpose restrictions on restaurants, construction sites and gatherings in the capital Bangkok as it tries to contain a wave of infections.

The country's latest wave kicked off in April when a cluster was found in upscale Bangkok clubs.

Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha has said he plans to fully reopen the country by October, but this would require hitting a target of vaccinating 50 million Thais in four months.

In neighbouring Malaysia, the prime minister announced that a nationwide lockdown in place for about a month already will continue, and he gave no date for the lifting of restrictions.

His government had previously said the strict curbs would be eased in stages, as long as there was a drop in infections, intensive care bed use and a rise in vaccination rates.

Bangladesh also said it would impose a new national lockdown from Monday, with offices shut for a week and only medical-related transport allowed.&nbsp;

Moscow on Sunday recorded the worst daily coronavirus death toll so far for a Russian city, as countries across the Asia-Pacific region extended or reimposed restrictions to tackle fresh waves of infections.

Moscow on Sunday recorded the worst daily coronavirus death toll so far for a Russian city, as countries across the Asia-Pacific region extended or reimposed restrictions to tackle fresh waves of infections. The pandemic has now killed close to four million people across the world but vaccination drives have brought down infection numbers in many wealthy countries, though the Delta strain of the virus remains a concern. The variant is now in 85 countries and is the most contagious of any Covid-19 strain identified, according to the World Health Organization. Still, in much of Europe and the United States curbs on daily life are easing as vaccination programmes bear fruit, although Russia is grappling with a deadly third wave. Also Read | Trump airs old election grievances at campaign-style rally The Russian capital on Sunday recorded 144 Covid-19 deaths in the last 24 hours, a day after Saint Petersburg set the previous highest figure. Saint Petersburg has hosted six Euro 2020 matches and is due to host a quarter-final on Friday, with spectator numbers capped at half but still upwards of 26,000 people. Russia as a whole has seen an explosion of new infections since mid-June driven by the Delta variant. The dramatic rise in cases comes as officials in Moscow are pushing vaccine-sceptical Russians to get inoculated after lifting most anti-virus restrictions late last year. "To stop the pandemic, one thing is needed: rapid, large-scale vaccinations. Nobody has invented any other solution," Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin told state-run television on Saturday. 'Up in smoke' The Delta variant is also feeding fresh outbreaks in Southeast Asia and Australia where authorities have brought back or prolonged restrictions. More than five million Sydney residents endured their first full day of a two-week lockdown Sunday to contain an outbreak of the strain. Restaurants, bars and cafes were shuttered and stay-at-home orders were issued, leaving the city centre virtually deserted. "Given how contagious this strain of the virus is, we do anticipate that in the next few days case numbers are likely to increase even beyond what we have seen today," New South Wales state Premier Gladys Berejiklian said. More than 110 Covid-19 cases have been reported in Sydney since a driver for an international flight crew tested positive in mid-June for the Delta variant. The flare-up has been a shock for a place that had returned to relative normality after months with few local cases. Professional musician Blain Cunneen, 27, said his work -- performing gigs, studio sessions and teaching students -- had gone "up in smoke" overnight. "All that was starting to operate again almost as normal... very suddenly overnight I got a bunch of emails and texts about everything being cancelled," he told AFP. Australia's northern city of Darwin also entered a separate snap 48-hour lockdown on Sunday after a handful of cases were linked to a coronavirus outbreak on a remote gold mine. "The Northern Territory is now facing its biggest threat since the Covid crisis began," Northern Territory Chief Minister Michael Gunner said. Restrictions reimposed Similar spikes in infections have recently been seen across Southeast Asia. Thailand will from Monday reimpose restrictions on restaurants, construction sites and gatherings in the capital Bangkok as it tries to contain a wave of infections. The country's latest wave kicked off in April when a cluster was found in upscale Bangkok clubs. Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha has said he plans to fully reopen the country by October, but this would require hitting a target of vaccinating 50 million Thais in four months. In neighbouring Malaysia, the prime minister announced that a nationwide lockdown in place for about a month already will continue, and he gave no date for the lifting of restrictions. His government had previously said the strict curbs would be eased in stages, as long as there was a drop in infections, intensive care bed use and a rise in vaccination rates. Bangladesh also said it would impose a new national lockdown from Monday, with offices shut for a week and only medical-related transport allowed.

Moscow Covid deaths spike as Asia-Pacific countries lockdown

Observing a surge in coronavirus cases, authorities in Moscow have decided to reimpose <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/work-from-home-employees-are-quitting-instead-of-returning-to-the-office-389202">work-from-home</a> restrictions nationwide.

The order has come as the country saw a surge in coronavirus cases, presumably due to the new Delta variant which is labelled as a "variant of concern" by the World Health Organization and is believed to be more transmissible.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tokyo-olympics-2020-who-is-accountable-if-the-covid-19-virus-spreads-393995">WATCH |</a>

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Moscow’s mayor Sergei Sobyanin ordered all businesses to reduce the employees working from an office by 30 per cent from June 28 to avoid further spread of the deadly coronavirus.

While vaccinated employees are not included in this order, everyone above the age of 65 and those battling pre-existing chronic diseases have been ordered to strictly stick to work from home.

Moscow is believed to Russia’s epicenter at the moment and has reported record covid deaths in the past few days. Sobyanin reported that 90 per cent of the new cases in Moscow are from the Delta variant.

Observing a surge in coronavirus cases, authorities in Moscow have decided to reimpose work-from-home restrictions nationwide. The order has come as the country saw a surge in coronavirus cases, presumably due to the new Delta variant which is labelled as a "variant of concern" by the World Health Organization and is believed to be more transmissible.

Observing a surge in coronavirus cases, authorities in Moscow have decided to reimpose work-from-home restrictions nationwide. The order has come as the country saw a surge in coronavirus cases, presumably due to the new Delta variant which is labelled as a "variant of concern" by the World Health Organization and is believed to be more transmissible. WATCH | Moscow’s mayor Sergei Sobyanin ordered all businesses to reduce the employees working from an office by 30 per cent from June 28 to avoid further spread of the deadly coronavirus. While vaccinated employees are not included in this order, everyone above the age of 65 and those battling pre-existing chronic diseases have been ordered to strictly stick to work from home. Moscow is believed to Russia’s epicenter at the moment and has reported record covid deaths in the past few days. Sobyanin reported that 90 per cent of the new cases in Moscow are from the Delta variant.

COVID-19: Moscow orders work-from-home amid rise in Delta variant cases

The Russian capital Moscow on Tuesday reported its hottest temperature in over 100 years in the month of June,&nbsp;with the mercury hitting&nbsp;34.7°C.

Russia’s meteorological service, Roshydromet forecasted the temperatures to remain on the high side for the next two days. According to reports, the capital city's temperature was the highest in 120 years as Muscovites struggled with the heatwave.

Roshydromet said the record-breaking temperature was due to "global climate change".

St.Petersburg also recorded a high temperature of 34°C which was the hottest since 1998.

The country's health watchdog Rospotrebnadzor had urged authorities to reduce working hours if the temperatures rose above 28.5C.&nbsp;

There were several reports of Moscovites bathing in the fountains and people reaching out for ice-creams as the mercury hit record levels.

Both Moscow and St.Petersburg has been hit hard with the virus amid the heatwave sweeping the two big cities.

Russia has experienced&nbsp;high temperatures in the past with Verkhoyansk recording 38°C in June last year even as forest fires blitzed Siberia amid floods in the country.

In July 2010, the Russian capital was hit with&nbsp;38 degrees Celsius temperature as the country was plunged with heatwave and fires with several people dying in the extreme heat. The heatwave&nbsp;devastated&nbsp;the economy and wiped&nbsp;out crop production.

Last year Russia's&nbsp;snow cradle Siberia was hit with massive wildfires as temperatures rose to record-breaking levels at&nbsp;38C as forest fires ravaged large areas.

The Russian capital Moscow on Tuesday reported its hottest temperature in over 100 years in the month of June, with the mercury hitting 34.7°C. Russia’s meteorological service, Roshydromet forecasted the temperatures to remain on the high side for the next two days.

The Russian capital Moscow on Tuesday reported its hottest temperature in over 100 years in the month of June, with the mercury hitting 34.7°C. Russia’s meteorological service, Roshydromet forecasted the temperatures to remain on the high side for the next two days. According to reports, the capital city's temperature was the highest in 120 years as Muscovites struggled with the heatwave. Roshydromet said the record-breaking temperature was due to "global climate change". St.Petersburg also recorded a high temperature of 34°C which was the hottest since 1998. The country's health watchdog Rospotrebnadzor had urged authorities to reduce working hours if the temperatures rose above 28.5C. There were several reports of Moscovites bathing in the fountains and people reaching out for ice-creams as the mercury hit record levels. Both Moscow and St.Petersburg has been hit hard with the virus amid the heatwave sweeping the two big cities. Russia has experienced high temperatures in the past with Verkhoyansk recording 38°C in June last year even as forest fires blitzed Siberia amid floods in the country. In July 2010, the Russian capital was hit with 38 degrees Celsius temperature as the country was plunged with heatwave and fires with several people dying in the extreme heat. The heatwave devastated the economy and wiped out crop production. Last year Russia's snow cradle Siberia was hit with massive wildfires as temperatures rose to record-breaking levels at 38C as forest fires ravaged large areas.

Moscow records highest June temperature in 120 years

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