Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a stark warning of a looming “humanitarian disaster” as relentless Russian strikes cripple key infrastructure and energy supplies ahead of winter. Millions face power shortages, food insecurity, and displacement as the war drags on. Zelensky is urging Western allies for urgent aid and air defense support to prevent a worsening crisis.

Zelensky Warns Of 'Humanitarian Disaster' For Ukraine

The U.S. has imposed sweeping new sanctions on Russia’s biggest oil companies, targeting energy exports and financial networks that fund Moscow’s war economy. But critics say the West’s continued purchase of Russian oil through third parties exposes double standards. Are these sanctions truly about pressure—or politics? Here’s a full breakdown of what the sanctions mean for Russia, global energy markets, and Western credibility.

U.S. Sanctions Top Russian Oil Giants: West's Hypocrisy Showing Up Again? 

During a White House meeting with Polish President Karol Nawrocki, US President Donald Trump lashed out at a reporter who questioned his lack of action against Russia. Trump defended his stance by pointing to secondary sanctions imposed on India over its purchase of Russian oil, calling them a major blow to Moscow's economy.

'Get a new job': Trump tells Polish journalist amid oil sanctions row 

China is gearing up for a massive military parade in Beijing next month to mark 80 years since Japan’s surrender in World War Two. The show of strength will feature tens of thousands of troops, hundreds of aircraft, and new-generation high-tech weapons — including hypersonic missiles and anti-ship systems.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to attend, as global attention turns to Beijing amid rising military tensions in the Indo-Pacific. This is the first such parade since 2015.


China’s giant WW2 parade to unveil hypersonic weapons | Putin to attend? 

The US Vice President JD Vance said on Wednesday that the Trump administration believes Russia is &ldquo;asking for too much&rdquo; in the talks to end the war in Ukraine. &ldquo;Right now, the Russians are asking for a certain set of requirements, a certain set of concessions, in order to end the conflict. We think they&rsquo;re asking for too much,&rdquo; Vance said at a Munich Leaders Meeting on international security policy in Washington, D.C.
When President Donald Trump was asked about Vance&rsquo;s remark later, he said, &ldquo;It&rsquo;s possible that&rsquo;s right.&rdquo; &ldquo;We are getting to a point where some decisions are going to have to be made,&rdquo; said Trump, who has repeatedly said that the US may walk away from negotiations if no progress is made. &ldquo;I&rsquo;m not happy about it,&rdquo; he added. &ldquo;I&rsquo;m not happy about it.&rdquo;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germanys-new-govt-to-turn-away-asylum-seekers-from-border-deploy-more-forces-9046179">Germany&rsquo;s new govt to turn away asylum-seekers from border, deploy more forces</a> The vice president&rsquo;s remark came as Trump and other officials have intensified pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin in recent weeks. Vance, who has long criticised US support for Ukraine and was involved in the Oval Office blow-up with President Volodymyr Zelensky in February, said the Trump administration is continuing discussions with Kyiv on what it needs to bring the conflict to an end. &ldquo;What the president has said is that he will walk away if he thinks he&rsquo;s not making progress&rdquo; in talks with the two countries, said Vance.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/justice-is-served-indian-army-india-launches-operation-sindoor-strikes-9-terror-targets-in-pakistan-pok-9042294" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Justice is served&rsquo;: Indian armed forces launch &lsquo;Operation Sindoor&rsquo;, strike 9 terror targets in&nbsp;Pakistan,&nbsp;PoK</a>
<h2>US now wants direct talks between Russia and Ukraine</h2>
He further said that the US would like to see direct talks between Russia and Ukraine as the next major step in the diplomatic process. &ldquo;Obviously, the United States is happy to participate in those conversations, but it&rsquo;s very important for the Russians and the Ukrainians to start talking to one another,&rdquo; he said. Vance said he thinks it would be probably impossible for the US to mediate the talks entirely without any direct conversations between Russia and Ukraine in a bid to bridge the &lsquo;gulf&rsquo; in what the two countries are demanding.&nbsp; The US is frustrated with the negotiations because Russia and Ukraine &lsquo;hate each other so much&rsquo; that the first 30 minutes of an hour-long discussion are spent &ldquo;complaining about some historical grievance,&rdquo; he said.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/operation-sindoor-pakistan-defence-minister-khawaja-asif-retracts-pow-claim-says-no-indian-soldiers-captured-9042569" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Operation Sindoor: Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif retracts PoW claim, says no Indian soldiers captured</a>
Moscow is preparing for a parade of troops and military hardware on May 9 to celebrate Russia's role in defeating Nazi Germany.
Trump had promised to end the Ukraine war within 24 hours of starting his second term in office.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World: The US is frustrated with the negotiations because Russia and Ukraine ‘hate each other so much’ that the first 30 minutes of an hour-long discussion are spent “complaining about some historical grievance, Vance said.

The US Vice President JD Vance said on Wednesday that the Trump administration believes Russia is “asking for too much” in the talks to end the war in Ukraine. “Right now, the Russians are asking for a certain set of requirements, a certain set of concessions, in order to end the conflict. We think they’re asking for too much,” Vance said at a Munich Leaders Meeting on international security policy in Washington, D.C. When President Donald Trump was asked about Vance’s remark later, he said, “It’s possible that’s right.” “We are getting to a point where some decisions are going to have to be made,” said Trump, who has repeatedly said that the US may walk away from negotiations if no progress is made. “I’m not happy about it,” he added. “I’m not happy about it.” Also Read | Germany’s new govt to turn away asylum-seekers from border, deploy more forces The vice president’s remark came as Trump and other officials have intensified pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin in recent weeks. Vance, who has long criticised US support for Ukraine and was involved in the Oval Office blow-up with President Volodymyr Zelensky in February, said the Trump administration is continuing discussions with Kyiv on what it needs to bring the conflict to an end. “What the president has said is that he will walk away if he thinks he’s not making progress” in talks with the two countries, said Vance. Also read: ‘Justice is served’: Indian armed forces launch ‘Operation Sindoor’, strike 9 terror targets in Pakistan, PoK US now wants direct talks between Russia and Ukraine He further said that the US would like to see direct talks between Russia and Ukraine as the next major step in the diplomatic process. “Obviously, the United States is happy to participate in those conversations, but it’s very important for the Russians and the Ukrainians to start talking to one another,” he said. Vance said he thinks it would be probably impossible for the US to mediate the talks entirely without any direct conversations between Russia and Ukraine in a bid to bridge the ‘gulf’ in what the two countries are demanding. The US is frustrated with the negotiations because Russia and Ukraine ‘hate each other so much’ that the first 30 minutes of an hour-long discussion are spent “complaining about some historical grievance,” he said. Also read: Operation Sindoor: Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif retracts PoW claim, says no Indian soldiers captured Moscow is preparing for a parade of troops and military hardware on May 9 to celebrate Russia's role in defeating Nazi Germany. Trump had promised to end the Ukraine war within 24 hours of starting his second term in office.

Russia ‘asking for too much’ to end war, time for Moscow-Kyiv direct talks: Vance

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is likely to forego attending Russia’s Victory Day parade in Moscow on May 9. Instead, Minister of State (MoS) for Defence, Sanjay Seth, will represent India at the annual event commemorating the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. Watch in for more details!

Breaking | Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh may skip Victory Day event

Pakistan link has emerged in the Moscow terror attack, with the mastermind identified as a Tajik national. Russia may request Pakistan to hand over the suspect, who is linked to the attack that killed 145 people and injured over 500.

Pakistan link emerged in Moscow terror attack, Russia may ask Pak to hand over mastermind

Pakistan link emerged in the Moscow Crocus Hall attack last year

The mastermind of the horrific terror attack at a concert hall in Moscow on March 22, 2024, that left around 150 civilians killed, is said to be in Pakistan, and as per media reports, Moscow may ask Islamabad to hand him over. The accused, a Tajikistan native who allegedly slipped into Pakistan from Afghanistan, had masterminded the attack by four operatives and as per reports, may have been detained by the Pakistani authorities.
The terror attack at the Crocus City Hall in Moscow, Russia, was the worst such incident in the country for years, as gunmen stormed the complex and killed 145 people and left over 500 injured.
The victims had come to attend a concert by the rock group Picnic when four gunmen arrived and started shooting indiscriminately. The terrorists also set the concert hall&rsquo;s premises on fire using a flammable liquid. The Islamic State group (IS) later said that four of its members carried out the attack and later released highly graphic footage from the attack.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorists-covered-rugged-terrain-from-kokernag-to-pahalgam-in-22-hours-for-attack-source-9007490">Also Read | Terrorists covered rugged terrain from Kokernag to Pahalgam in 22 hours for attack: Source</a>
Russia&rsquo;s Federal Security Service (FSB) had announced that 11 people had been arrested, and four of them&mdash;Dalerdzhon Mirzoyev, Saidakrami Murodali Rachabalizoda, Shamsidin Fariduni, and Muhammadsobir Fayzov&mdash;were presented in court.&nbsp; All four, hailing originally from Tajikistan, were charged with an act of terrorism and probably face life in prison.
The US said that Islamic State-Khorasan or ISIS-K, an offshoot that seeks to establish a Muslim caliphate across Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Iran, was behind the attack.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lapu-lapu-festival-vancouver-police-rule-out-act-of-terrorism-as-car-driver-plows-into-crowd-killing-several-people-9007227">Lapu Lapu festival: Vancouver police rule out act of terrorism as car driver plows into crowd killing several people</a> Colin Clarke, a New York-based counterterrorism analyst, told the New York Times that IS-K had been &lsquo;fixated&rsquo; on Russia for the past two years as it &ldquo;accuses the Kremlin of having Muslim blood in its hands, referencing Moscow&rsquo;s interventions in Afghanistan, Chechnya, and Syria&rdquo;.
Meanwhile, Pakistani security forces had arrested high-profile operatives of IS-K and foiled an attempt of the group to establish itself in its territory last year. The arrested IS-K operatives included Adil Panjsheri, Abu Munzir, and Kaka Younis, all central figures in the recruitment, travel, and funding of fighters and suicide bombers, including those involved in the attacks in Kerman, Islamic Republic of Iran, and Moscow.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-indian-navy-showcases-operational-readiness-for-offensive-strike-with-successful-missile-test-9007502">WATCH | Indian Navy showcases operational readiness for &lsquo;offensive strike&rsquo; with successful missile test</a>
It was also reported that Tariq Tajiki, a key member of the branch and the mastermind of the Kerman attack, had then stayed back in Afghanistan.
However, since Afghanistan also shares borders with Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, there is a probability that the mastermind may have slipped into Tajikistan.
The IS-K leadership has been using old-fashioned methods of communication through a network of couriers to deliver instructions and conduct in-person meetings instead of using electronic devices and the internet to avoid detection.

World: The terror attack at the Crocus City Hall in Moscow, Russia, was the worst such incident in the country for years, as gunmen stormed the complex and killed 145 people and left over 500 injured.

The mastermind of the horrific terror attack at a concert hall in Moscow on March 22, 2024, that left around 150 civilians killed, is said to be in Pakistan, and as per media reports, Moscow may ask Islamabad to hand him over. The accused, a Tajikistan native who allegedly slipped into Pakistan from Afghanistan, had masterminded the attack by four operatives and as per reports, may have been detained by the Pakistani authorities. The terror attack at the Crocus City Hall in Moscow, Russia, was the worst such incident in the country for years, as gunmen stormed the complex and killed 145 people and left over 500 injured. The victims had come to attend a concert by the rock group Picnic when four gunmen arrived and started shooting indiscriminately. The terrorists also set the concert hall’s premises on fire using a flammable liquid. The Islamic State group (IS) later said that four of its members carried out the attack and later released highly graphic footage from the attack. Also Read | Terrorists covered rugged terrain from Kokernag to Pahalgam in 22 hours for attack: Source Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) had announced that 11 people had been arrested, and four of them—Dalerdzhon Mirzoyev, Saidakrami Murodali Rachabalizoda, Shamsidin Fariduni, and Muhammadsobir Fayzov—were presented in court. All four, hailing originally from Tajikistan, were charged with an act of terrorism and probably face life in prison. The US said that Islamic State-Khorasan or ISIS-K, an offshoot that seeks to establish a Muslim caliphate across Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Iran, was behind the attack. Also Read | Lapu Lapu festival: Vancouver police rule out act of terrorism as car driver plows into crowd killing several people Colin Clarke, a New York-based counterterrorism analyst, told the New York Times that IS-K had been ‘fixated’ on Russia for the past two years as it “accuses the Kremlin of having Muslim blood in its hands, referencing Moscow’s interventions in Afghanistan, Chechnya, and Syria”. Meanwhile, Pakistani security forces had arrested high-profile operatives of IS-K and foiled an attempt of the group to establish itself in its territory last year. The arrested IS-K operatives included Adil Panjsheri, Abu Munzir, and Kaka Younis, all central figures in the recruitment, travel, and funding of fighters and suicide bombers, including those involved in the attacks in Kerman, Islamic Republic of Iran, and Moscow. Also Read | WATCH | Indian Navy showcases operational readiness for ‘offensive strike’ with successful missile test It was also reported that Tariq Tajiki, a key member of the branch and the mastermind of the Kerman attack, had then stayed back in Afghanistan. However, since Afghanistan also shares borders with Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, there is a probability that the mastermind may have slipped into Tajikistan. The IS-K leadership has been using old-fashioned methods of communication through a network of couriers to deliver instructions and conduct in-person meetings instead of using electronic devices and the internet to avoid detection.

Moscow’s Crocus Hall terror attack plotter in Pakistan?

A high-ranking Russian military official has been killed in an explosion in a suburb of Moscow, in what authorities are treating as a case of murder. US President Donald Trump has called it a "big one." Watch in for more details!

Russia general killed in Moscow; US president calls attack big one

A senior Russian military officer has been killed in a deadly car bomb explosion on the outskirts of Moscow. Russia's top criminal investigation agency confirmed that Lieutenant General Yaroslav Moskalik died from injuries.

Russia-Ukraine war: 12 dead in Moscow's latest strikes on Kyiv, Trump says not happy with attack

Car Bomb Blast in Moscow: Senior Russian Army Official Lt Gen Yaroslav Moskalik killed in explosion. Investigation underway into the deadly attack.

Senior Russian army official killed in car bomb blast

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/russia-0">Russia </a>is planning to use a US-owned company seized by the Kremlin to be placed under state control and used for supplying food to the Russian army, Reuters reported, citing a document. The move can potentially threaten the warming relations between Washington and Moscow.
The canned food producer Glavprodukt, which was seized in October, is the only American-owned company to be taken under the control of Rosimushchestvo, Russia&rsquo;s state property management agency.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/witkoff-spreading-russian-narratives-zelensky-blames-trump-envoy-says-ukraine-us-minerals-deal-could-be-signed-today-8973738">'Witkoff spreading Russian narratives': Zelensky blames Trump envoy, says Ukraine-US minerals deal could be signed today</a>
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that its treatment will be part of discussions about resetting US-Russia relations.
According to a letter addressed to Russia&rsquo;s prosecutor general from Glavprodukt&rsquo;s new management, the seizure will ensure stable production, including for future supplies to the national guard and defence ministry, the report added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-lifts-taliban-terror-designation-after-two-decades-8973213">Russia lifts Taliban's 'terror' designation after two decades</a>
The company&rsquo;s Los Angeles-based founder, Leonid Smirnov, and his affiliated firms were accused of transferring approximately RUB 1.38 billion ($17 million) out of Russia between 2022 and 2024, according to a RBC daily report.
Smirnov denied any wrongdoing, calling it a &ldquo;Russian-style corporate raid&rdquo; intended to take over his business. However, the company&rsquo;s property was seized by the Moscow Arbitration Court on March 12 at the request of the Prosecutor General&rsquo;s Office. A hearing is scheduled for April 18.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-putin-praises-elon-musk-compares-him-to-russian-space-legend-korolev-8970499">'Crazy about Mars': Russia's Putin praises Elon Musk, compares him to Russian space legend Korolev</a>
<h2>Strategic assets</h2>
Around a dozen European companies have also had their Russian subsidiaries seized by presidential decree, including Danish brewer Carlsberg and Finnish utility Fortum. The Kremlin has warned of more asset expropriations.
Watch | Moscow plans to use seized US company to supply food to Russian military: Report
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/1704_UKRAINE_11AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1704_UKRAINE_11AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=141&amp;tags=russia, ukraine, war, news, world news, international" title="Russia-Ukraine war: US Secretary Marco Rubio heads to France for Ukraine talks" id="PL_iframe_block-m9lkjsag-qy6vohhu-2da9wvef"></iframe>
The Kremlin had expected the Ukrainian invasion to be a quick operation, but the war has now dragged on for over three years. This has prompted Russia to ramp up its defence spending and secure strategic assets. In 2022, Moscow struggled to secure essential military supplies, including food.

The canned food producer Glavprodukt, which was seized in October, is the only American-owned company to be taken under the control of Rosimushchestvo, Russia’s state property management agency. World

Russia is planning to use a US-owned company seized by the Kremlin to be placed under state control and used for supplying food to the Russian army, Reuters reported, citing a document. The move can potentially threaten the warming relations between Washington and Moscow. The canned food producer Glavprodukt, which was seized in October, is the only American-owned company to be taken under the control of Rosimushchestvo, Russia’s state property management agency. Also read | 'Witkoff spreading Russian narratives': Zelensky blames Trump envoy, says Ukraine-US minerals deal could be signed today US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that its treatment will be part of discussions about resetting US-Russia relations. According to a letter addressed to Russia’s prosecutor general from Glavprodukt’s new management, the seizure will ensure stable production, including for future supplies to the national guard and defence ministry, the report added. Also read | Russia lifts Taliban's 'terror' designation after two decades The company’s Los Angeles-based founder, Leonid Smirnov, and his affiliated firms were accused of transferring approximately RUB 1.38 billion ($17 million) out of Russia between 2022 and 2024, according to a RBC daily report. Smirnov denied any wrongdoing, calling it a “Russian-style corporate raid” intended to take over his business. However, the company’s property was seized by the Moscow Arbitration Court on March 12 at the request of the Prosecutor General’s Office. A hearing is scheduled for April 18. Also read | 'Crazy about Mars': Russia's Putin praises Elon Musk, compares him to Russian space legend Korolev Strategic assets Around a dozen European companies have also had their Russian subsidiaries seized by presidential decree, including Danish brewer Carlsberg and Finnish utility Fortum. The Kremlin has warned of more asset expropriations. Watch | Moscow plans to use seized US company to supply food to Russian military: Report The Kremlin had expected the Ukrainian invasion to be a quick operation, but the war has now dragged on for over three years. This has prompted Russia to ramp up its defence spending and secure strategic assets. In 2022, Moscow struggled to secure essential military supplies, including food.

Moscow plans to use seized US company to supply food to Russian military: Report

Russia has promised to train troops and supply weapons to Sahel countries in Africa as Moscow seeks to expand its influence in these West African nations led by military juntas. In return, these countries have pledged their support to Russia, with some even calling Ukraine a terrorist state.

Moscow hosts foreign ministers of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso

Against the backdrop of geopolitical tensions, an American fashion designer pursued her own brand of 'catwalk diplomacy' at Moscow Fashion Week. Here's more in our next report.

Moscow Fashion Week 2025: Decoding catwalk diplomacy

Former world chess champion Boris Spassky, a Soviet-era legend, has passed away at the age of 88 in Moscow. Best known for his historic 1972 match against Bobby Fischer, Spassky was the 10th world champion and a key figure in Cold War chess rivalries. His legacy continues to inspire generations of players.

Soviet chess legend Boris Spassky passes away at 88 in Moscow

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Moscow in May, with reports suggesting he may attend Russia’s Victory Day Parade at Red Square on May 9. Stay tuned for the latest updates.

PM Modi may attend Victory Day parade  in Moscow on May 9

PM Modi may attend Russia's Victory Day parade in Moscow

An explosion in a Moscow apartment block has killed the leader of a pro-Russian paramilitary leader Armen Sarkisian and his bodyguard. Watch this report for more details!

Explosion in luxury Moscow building in Moscow kills 2, injures 4

#Gravitas Multiple countries in West Asia are shifting alliances, conducting high-stakes meetings, and power recalibrations that could reshape the region’s future.

Syria’s President meets Saudi crown prince in first foreign trip

January 2025 is on track to be one of the warmest in Moscow on record, with two of the past days breaking all-time daily temperature highs. Thermometer readings on Wednesday have not dipped below an "April-like" 3.8 degrees Celsius, which is much higher than the historical average below-freezing.

Moscow temperatures soar, shatter winter records

Ukraine carried out its largest aerial attack on Russian territory of the nearly three-year war overnight, Kyiv said on Tuesday, hitting factories and energy hubs hundreds of miles from the frontline.
The Russian military accused Kyiv of using US- and British-supplied missiles for one of the strikes and promised it would "not go unanswered".
The barrage forced schools in the southwestern Saratov region to close, while at least nine airports in central and western Russia temporarily halted traffic, according to Russian officials.
Moscow and Kyiv have increased strikes on each other ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration next week, as both sides seek to gain the upper hand in potential negotiations aimed at settling the nearly three-year war.
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-man-fighting-for-russia-on-ukraine-frontlines-dies-after-desperate-pleas-to-return-back-home-8618801" rel="dofollow"> Indian man fighting for Russia on Ukraine frontlines dies after desperate pleas to return back home: Report</a>
"The Ukrainian Defence Forces carried out the most massive strike against the occupiers' military facilities, at a distance of 200 to 1,100 kilometres (125 to 700 miles) deep into the territory of the Russian Federation," Ukraine's General Staff said in a post on social media.
Facilities "in the Bryansk, Saratov, Tula regions and the Republic of Tatarstan were hit," it added.
Among the targets were a chemical factory that makes rocket fuel and ammunition for Russia's army, an oil depot near a Russian air base, and an oil refinery.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-soldiers-fighting-in-ukraine-told-to-kill-selves-before-capture-seoul-8613983" rel="dofollow">North Korea soldiers fighting in Ukraine were told to kill selves before capture: Seoul</a>
The governor of Russia's Saratov region, Roman Busargin, said the scale of the attack there was "massive".
Schools in the cities of Saratov and Engels were holding classes online on Tuesday because of the attacks, he added.
Firefighters had only the day before managed to put out a blaze at an oil depot in the city of Engels, which was hit by a Ukrainian drone strike on January 8.
Kyiv's army said it had hit the same site again.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-releases-first-testimony-captured-north-korean-soldiers-8611052" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Thought it was training, not combat': Ukraine releases first testimony of captured N Korean soldiers | Watch</a>
<h2>'Successful' strike&nbsp;</h2>
In the energy-rich region of Tatarstan, a Ukrainian drone struck a gas storage tank, sending flames and thick smoke billowing into the sky near the city of Kazan, according to the media and the regional government.
Tatar local media said a liquefied gas storage base was hit, and published images showing flames and black smoke.
Russia's defence ministry said it had shot down six US-supplied ATACMS missiles and six British Storm Shadow cruise missiles that Ukraine had fired in the attack on the Bryansk region.
Ukraine's army had earlier claimed it had hit a chemical plant near the town of Seltso, more than 100 kilometres from the border, that makes ammunition and explosives for Russia's army.
"Drones successfully distracted Russian air defences, paving the way for missiles that hit the main targets," the Ukrainian military's Unmanned Systems Forces said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-azov-brigade-seeks-english-speaking-recruits-amid-rising-pressures-8610346" rel="dofollow">Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv is seeking English-speaking soldiers</a>
Ukraine regularly targets military and energy sites in Russia, part of what it calls "fair" retaliation for Russia's repeated barrages of its energy grid since Moscow invaded in February 2022.
The Ukrainian army vowed to pursue its "systematic" campaign against the Russian military-industrial complex until Russian "armed aggression against Ukraine is completely stopped".
The air force separately said that its air defence systems had downed 58 Iranian-designed drones launched by Russia, while another 21 either were destroyed with electronic interference systems or crashed.
<h2>Russian advances&nbsp;</h2>
The overnight Ukrainian attacks came at a difficult moment for Kyiv's forces along the front line, particularly in the eastern Donetsk region.
City authorities in Pokrovsk, Russia's main target in the region, repeated a call on Tuesday for remaining residents to flee. Around 60,000 people lived in the city before Russia invaded in February 2022.
Russian advances have also forced the closure and evacuation of staff from a major coal mine around Pokrovsk, its operator said on Tuesday, another signal of the dangerous proximity of Russian forces to the city.
Moscow announced on Tuesday that it had re-captured two Ukrainian villages in the eastern Donetsk region -- Neskuchne and Terny -- that Kyiv had wrested back from Russian control earlier in the conflict: symbolic blows for Kyiv's struggling army.
The Russian defence ministry said the area around Neskuchne was a strategically important logistics hub for Ukraine, and published footage showing air strikes against the shells of charred concrete buildings, already completely destroyed by previous attacks.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: The Russian military accused Kyiv of using US- and British-supplied missiles for one of the strikes and promised it would "not go unanswered".

Ukraine carried out its largest aerial attack on Russian territory of the nearly three-year war overnight, Kyiv said on Tuesday, hitting factories and energy hubs hundreds of miles from the frontline. The Russian military accused Kyiv of using US- and British-supplied missiles for one of the strikes and promised it would "not go unanswered". The barrage forced schools in the southwestern Saratov region to close, while at least nine airports in central and western Russia temporarily halted traffic, according to Russian officials. Moscow and Kyiv have increased strikes on each other ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration next week, as both sides seek to gain the upper hand in potential negotiations aimed at settling the nearly three-year war. Also read: Indian man fighting for Russia on Ukraine frontlines dies after desperate pleas to return back home: Report "The Ukrainian Defence Forces carried out the most massive strike against the occupiers' military facilities, at a distance of 200 to 1,100 kilometres (125 to 700 miles) deep into the territory of the Russian Federation," Ukraine's General Staff said in a post on social media. Facilities "in the Bryansk, Saratov, Tula regions and the Republic of Tatarstan were hit," it added. Among the targets were a chemical factory that makes rocket fuel and ammunition for Russia's army, an oil depot near a Russian air base, and an oil refinery. Also read: North Korea soldiers fighting in Ukraine were told to kill selves before capture: Seoul The governor of Russia's Saratov region, Roman Busargin, said the scale of the attack there was "massive". Schools in the cities of Saratov and Engels were holding classes online on Tuesday because of the attacks, he added. Firefighters had only the day before managed to put out a blaze at an oil depot in the city of Engels, which was hit by a Ukrainian drone strike on January 8. Kyiv's army said it had hit the same site again. Also read: ‘Thought it was training, not combat': Ukraine releases first testimony of captured N Korean soldiers | Watch 'Successful' strike In the energy-rich region of Tatarstan, a Ukrainian drone struck a gas storage tank, sending flames and thick smoke billowing into the sky near the city of Kazan, according to the media and the regional government. Tatar local media said a liquefied gas storage base was hit, and published images showing flames and black smoke. Russia's defence ministry said it had shot down six US-supplied ATACMS missiles and six British Storm Shadow cruise missiles that Ukraine had fired in the attack on the Bryansk region. Ukraine's army had earlier claimed it had hit a chemical plant near the town of Seltso, more than 100 kilometres from the border, that makes ammunition and explosives for Russia's army. "Drones successfully distracted Russian air defences, paving the way for missiles that hit the main targets," the Ukrainian military's Unmanned Systems Forces said. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv is seeking English-speaking soldiers Ukraine regularly targets military and energy sites in Russia, part of what it calls "fair" retaliation for Russia's repeated barrages of its energy grid since Moscow invaded in February 2022. The Ukrainian army vowed to pursue its "systematic" campaign against the Russian military-industrial complex until Russian "armed aggression against Ukraine is completely stopped". The air force separately said that its air defence systems had downed 58 Iranian-designed drones launched by Russia, while another 21 either were destroyed with electronic interference systems or crashed. Russian advances The overnight Ukrainian attacks came at a difficult moment for Kyiv's forces along the front line, particularly in the eastern Donetsk region. City authorities in Pokrovsk, Russia's main target in the region, repeated a call on Tuesday for remaining residents to flee. Around 60,000 people lived in the city before Russia invaded in February 2022. Russian advances have also forced the closure and evacuation of staff from a major coal mine around Pokrovsk, its operator said on Tuesday, another signal of the dangerous proximity of Russian forces to the city. Moscow announced on Tuesday that it had re-captured two Ukrainian villages in the eastern Donetsk region -- Neskuchne and Terny -- that Kyiv had wrested back from Russian control earlier in the conflict: symbolic blows for Kyiv's struggling army. The Russian defence ministry said the area around Neskuchne was a strategically important logistics hub for Ukraine, and published footage showing air strikes against the shells of charred concrete buildings, already completely destroyed by previous attacks. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ukraine claims to carry out 'most massive strike' on Russia, Moscow vows retaliation

2024 here has been the year of elections. It's been a year that many claims and counterclaims have created a bit of a frenzy before and also after the elections in many countries. The most common allegation has been that of election interference, and the country most accused of interfering happens to be Russia. Watch in for more details!

2024: Year Of Elections & Interference | Has Moscow Meddled In Elections Globally?

Kyiv, Ukraine
Ukraine's military agency on Monday (Dec 16) claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This comes as the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang has sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine. 
Pentagon and Ukraine have claimed that North Korean soldiers have been deployed to help Russia in its war with Ukraine. 
The North Korean units were involved in assaults on the weekend near three villages, according to Ukraine’s defence intelligence service. 
They added that three North Korean soldiers went missing during clashes near the villages of Pleskhovo, Vorozhba, and Martynovka close to the border.
Meanwhile, earlier, a Ukrainian frontline drone unit posted a video on Sunday, showing the bodies of more than 20 North Korean soldiers lined up in an icy field. However, the quality of the video was not good enough to verify their identity, reported CNN. 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-says-russia-using-noticeable-number-of-north-korean-soldiers-in-kursk-assaults-784053">Also read: Ukraine's Zelensky says Russia using 'noticeable' number of North Korean soldiers in Kursk assaults</a>
Last month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that North Korean troops deployed to Kursk have been involved in the war. 
<h2>North Korea's involvement in war 'dangerous expansion'</h2>
The US, ten other countries, and the EU, in a joint statement, called North Korea's growing involvement in Russia's war in Ukraine a "dangerous expansion". 
"Direct DPRK support for Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine marks a dangerous expansion of the conflict, with serious consequences for European and Indo-Pacific security," the statement said, referring to North Korea by its official acronym.
Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Accuses Russia Of Deploying North Korean Troops In Kursk
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/15/1512_UKRAINE_7AM-1734230712-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1512_UKRAINE_7AM.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=140&tags=russia,Ukraine,russia ukraine war,Putin,war,Oreshnik" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>
The joint statement was signed by the foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the high representative of the European Union. 
They added that they were "deeply concerned about any political, military, or economic support that Russia may be providing to the DPRK's illegal weapons programmes, including weapons of mass destruction."
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos
(With inputs from agencies)

The North Korean units were involved in assaults at the weekend near three villages, according to Ukraine’s defence intelligence service. 



Kyiv, Ukraine Ukraine's military agency on Monday (Dec 16) claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This comes as the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang has sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine. Pentagon and Ukraine have claimed that North Korean soldiers have been deployed to help Russia in its war with Ukraine. The North Korean units were involved in assaults on the weekend near three villages, according to Ukraine’s defence intelligence service. They added that three North Korean soldiers went missing during clashes near the villages of Pleskhovo, Vorozhba, and Martynovka close to the border. Meanwhile, earlier, a Ukrainian frontline drone unit posted a video on Sunday, showing the bodies of more than 20 North Korean soldiers lined up in an icy field. However, the quality of the video was not good enough to verify their identity, reported CNN. Also read: Ukraine's Zelensky says Russia using 'noticeable' number of North Korean soldiers in Kursk assaults Last month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that North Korean troops deployed to Kursk have been involved in the war. North Korea's involvement in war 'dangerous expansion' The US, ten other countries, and the EU, in a joint statement, called North Korea's growing involvement in Russia's war in Ukraine a "dangerous expansion". "Direct DPRK support for Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine marks a dangerous expansion of the conflict, with serious consequences for European and Indo-Pacific security," the statement said, referring to North Korea by its official acronym. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Accuses Russia Of Deploying North Korean Troops In Kursk × The joint statement was signed by the foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the high representative of the European Union. They added that they were "deeply concerned about any political, military, or economic support that Russia may be providing to the DPRK's illegal weapons programmes, including weapons of mass destruction." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region

Ukraine's military agency on Monday (Dec 16) claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This comes as the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang has sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine.&nbsp;

Pentagon and Ukraine have claimed that North Korean soldiers have been deployed to help Russia in its war with Ukraine.&nbsp;

The North Korean units were involved in assaults on the weekend near three villages, according to Ukraine’s defence intelligence service.&nbsp;

They added that three North Korean soldiers went missing during clashes near the villages of Pleskhovo, Vorozhba, and Martynovka close to the border.

Meanwhile, earlier, a Ukrainian frontline drone unit posted a video on Sunday, showing the bodies of more than 20 North Korean soldiers lined up in an icy field. However, the quality of the video was not good enough to verify their identity, reported CNN.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-says-russia-using-noticeable-number-of-north-korean-soldiers-in-kursk-assaults-784053">Also read:&nbsp;Ukraine's Zelensky says Russia using 'noticeable' number of North Korean soldiers in Kursk assaults</a>

Last month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that North Korean troops deployed to Kursk have been involved in the war.&nbsp;

<h2>North Korea's involvement in war 'dangerous expansion'</h2>

The US, ten other countries, and the EU, in a joint statement, called North Korea's growing involvement in Russia's war in Ukraine a "dangerous expansion".&nbsp;

"Direct DPRK support for Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine marks a dangerous expansion of the conflict, with serious consequences for European and Indo-Pacific security," the statement said, referring to North Korea by its official acronym.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Accuses Russia Of Deploying North Korean Troops In Kursk

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-accuses-russia-of-deploying-north-korean-troops-in-kursk-784058/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The joint statement was signed by the foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the high representative of the European Union.&nbsp;

They added that they were "deeply concerned about any political, military, or economic support that Russia may be providing to the DPRK's illegal weapons programmes, including weapons of mass destruction."

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine's military agency on Monday (Dec 16) claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This comes as the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang has sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine.

Ukraine's military agency on Monday (Dec 16) claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This comes as the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang has sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine. Pentagon and Ukraine have claimed that North Korean soldiers have been deployed to help Russia in its war with Ukraine. The North Korean units were involved in assaults on the weekend near three villages, according to Ukraine’s defence intelligence service. They added that three North Korean soldiers went missing during clashes near the villages of Pleskhovo, Vorozhba, and Martynovka close to the border. Meanwhile, earlier, a Ukrainian frontline drone unit posted a video on Sunday, showing the bodies of more than 20 North Korean soldiers lined up in an icy field. However, the quality of the video was not good enough to verify their identity, reported CNN. Also read: Ukraine's Zelensky says Russia using 'noticeable' number of North Korean soldiers in Kursk assaults Last month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that North Korean troops deployed to Kursk have been involved in the war. North Korea's involvement in war 'dangerous expansion' The US, ten other countries, and the EU, in a joint statement, called North Korea's growing involvement in Russia's war in Ukraine a "dangerous expansion". "Direct DPRK support for Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine marks a dangerous expansion of the conflict, with serious consequences for European and Indo-Pacific security," the statement said, referring to North Korea by its official acronym. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Accuses Russia Of Deploying North Korean Troops In Kursk × The joint statement was signed by the foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the high representative of the European Union. They added that they were "deeply concerned about any political, military, or economic support that Russia may be providing to the DPRK's illegal weapons programmes, including weapons of mass destruction." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Moscow, Russia 
Russia's foreign ministry said it has evacuated some of its diplomatic staff from Syria Sunday, a week after the fall of Bashar al-Assad.
"On December 15, the withdrawal of part of the personnel of the Russian (diplomatic) representation in Damascus was carried out by a special flight of the Russian Air Force from the Hmeimim airbase" in Syria, the ministry's crisis situations department said on Telegram.
The ministry said the flight arrived at an airport near Moscow, without specifying how many people were aboard. 
The flight also carried members from the diplomatic missions of Belarus, North Korea and Abkhazia, a Moscow-backed separatist region of Georgia, the department said.
"The Russian embassy in Damascus continues to function", said the press release published on Telegram.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-oil-tanker-splits-in-half-spilling-thousands-of-tonnes-of-oil-into-kerch-strait-784177">Also read: Russian oil tanker splits in half, spilling thousands of tonnes of oil into Kerch Strait</a>
Following an 11-day offensive, a rebel coalition dominated by Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) overthrew Al-Assad, who fled to Russia along with his family.
His fall from power was a serious setback for Moscow, which, along with Iran, was the main ally of the former Syrian president and which had intervened militarily in Syria since 2015.
Watch | Israel-Syria: 60 Israeli Strikes On Syria In Less Than Four Hours
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/15/1512_HEZ_730AM-1734231907-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1512_HEZ_730AM.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=614&tags=israel,Syria,Hamas,Hezbollah,strikes" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>
The fate of Russia's two military bases in Syria—the Tartus naval base and the Hmeimim military airfield—is now uncertain.
The sites are key to Russia maintaining its influence in the Middle East, in the Mediterranean basin, and as far as Africa.
On Wednesday, a Kremlin spokesperson said Moscow was in contact with the new authorities in Syria regarding the bases' future.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The ministry said the flight arrived at an airport near Moscow, without specifying how many people were aboard. 



Moscow, Russia Russia's foreign ministry said it has evacuated some of its diplomatic staff from Syria Sunday, a week after the fall of Bashar al-Assad. "On December 15, the withdrawal of part of the personnel of the Russian (diplomatic) representation in Damascus was carried out by a special flight of the Russian Air Force from the Hmeimim airbase" in Syria, the ministry's crisis situations department said on Telegram. The ministry said the flight arrived at an airport near Moscow, without specifying how many people were aboard. The flight also carried members from the diplomatic missions of Belarus, North Korea and Abkhazia, a Moscow-backed separatist region of Georgia, the department said. "The Russian embassy in Damascus continues to function", said the press release published on Telegram. Also read: Russian oil tanker splits in half, spilling thousands of tonnes of oil into Kerch Strait Following an 11-day offensive, a rebel coalition dominated by Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) overthrew Al-Assad, who fled to Russia along with his family. His fall from power was a serious setback for Moscow, which, along with Iran, was the main ally of the former Syrian president and which had intervened militarily in Syria since 2015. Watch | Israel-Syria: 60 Israeli Strikes On Syria In Less Than Four Hours × The fate of Russia's two military bases in Syria—the Tartus naval base and the Hmeimim military airfield—is now uncertain. The sites are key to Russia maintaining its influence in the Middle East, in the Mediterranean basin, and as far as Africa. On Wednesday, a Kremlin spokesperson said Moscow was in contact with the new authorities in Syria regarding the bases' future. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Russia says 'part' of its diplomatic staff in Syria evacuated by special flight

Russia's foreign ministry said it has evacuated some of its diplomatic staff from Syria Sunday, a week after the fall of Bashar al-Assad.

"On December 15, the withdrawal of part of the personnel of the Russian (diplomatic) representation in Damascus was carried out by a special flight of the Russian Air Force from the Hmeimim airbase" in Syria, the ministry's crisis situations department said on Telegram.

The ministry said the flight arrived at an airport near Moscow, without specifying how many people were aboard.&nbsp;

The flight also carried members from the diplomatic missions of Belarus, North Korea and Abkhazia, a Moscow-backed separatist region of Georgia, the department said.

"The Russian embassy in Damascus continues to function", said the press release published on Telegram.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-oil-tanker-splits-in-half-spilling-thousands-of-tonnes-of-oil-into-kerch-strait-784177">Also read:&nbsp;Russian oil tanker splits in half, spilling thousands of tonnes of oil into Kerch Strait</a>

Following an 11-day offensive, a rebel coalition dominated by Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) overthrew Al-Assad, who fled to Russia along with his family.

His fall from power was a serious setback for Moscow, which, along with Iran, was the main ally of the former Syrian president and which had intervened militarily in Syria since 2015.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Syria: 60 Israeli Strikes On Syria In Less Than Four Hours

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-syria-60-israeli-strikes-on-syria-in-less-than-four-hours-784061/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The fate of Russia's two military bases in Syria—the Tartus naval base and the Hmeimim military airfield—is now uncertain.

The sites are key to Russia maintaining its influence in the Middle East, in the Mediterranean basin, and as far as Africa.

On Wednesday, a Kremlin spokesperson said Moscow was in contact with the new authorities in Syria regarding the bases' future.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Russia's foreign ministry said it has evacuated some of its diplomatic staff from Syria Sunday, a week after the fall of Bashar al-Assad. "On December 15, the withdrawal of part of the personnel of the Russian (diplomatic) representation in Damascus was carried out by a special flight of the Russian Air Force from the Hmeimim airbase" in Syria, the ministry's crisis situations department said on Telegram.

Russia's foreign ministry said it has evacuated some of its diplomatic staff from Syria Sunday, a week after the fall of Bashar al-Assad. "On December 15, the withdrawal of part of the personnel of the Russian (diplomatic) representation in Damascus was carried out by a special flight of the Russian Air Force from the Hmeimim airbase" in Syria, the ministry's crisis situations department said on Telegram. The ministry said the flight arrived at an airport near Moscow, without specifying how many people were aboard. The flight also carried members from the diplomatic missions of Belarus, North Korea and Abkhazia, a Moscow-backed separatist region of Georgia, the department said. "The Russian embassy in Damascus continues to function", said the press release published on Telegram. Also read: Russian oil tanker splits in half, spilling thousands of tonnes of oil into Kerch Strait Following an 11-day offensive, a rebel coalition dominated by Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) overthrew Al-Assad, who fled to Russia along with his family. His fall from power was a serious setback for Moscow, which, along with Iran, was the main ally of the former Syrian president and which had intervened militarily in Syria since 2015. Watch | Israel-Syria: 60 Israeli Strikes On Syria In Less Than Four Hours × The fate of Russia's two military bases in Syria—the Tartus naval base and the Hmeimim military airfield—is now uncertain. The sites are key to Russia maintaining its influence in the Middle East, in the Mediterranean basin, and as far as Africa. On Wednesday, a Kremlin spokesperson said Moscow was in contact with the new authorities in Syria regarding the bases' future. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The United States and Britain have launched a new round of sanctions aimed at disrupting the illicit gold trade, which, as per the United Kingdom, is allegedly funding Russian President Vladimir Putin's military operations in Ukraine and backing corruption.&nbsp;

The UK government imposed asset freezes on four people that it said were accused of involvement in illicit Russian gold trade.

"Illicit gold is an assault on the legitimate trade of a valuable commodity, fuelling corruption, undermining the rule of law, and entrenching human rights abuses such as child labour," the British Foreign Office said in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/100k-victims-50-nations-1mn-daily-revenue-russia-raids-massive-scam-centre-watch-video-782877">100k victims; 50 nations, $1mn daily revenue: Russia raids massive scam centre</a>

"Russia uses the illicit gold trade to launder money and evade sanctions, in doing so bolstering Putin's war efforts."

Last week, Britain and the United States joined forces to disrupt a massive global money laundering network used by wealthy Russians to evade sanctions.&nbsp;

The United States on Monday imposed sanctions on 28 individuals and businesses allegedly involved in a global gold smuggling and money laundering network based in Zimbabwe.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-islamist-rebel-leader-vows-to-hold-accountable-former-officials-for-war-crimes-782919">Syria Islamist rebel leader vows to hold accountable former officials for war crimes</a>

The network, which is led by Kamlesh Pattni, is accused of bribing officials, hiding ownership through trusted supporters, and creating a complex web of businesses to conceal illicit activities, said the US Treasury Department in a statement.

“Across the globe, when corrupt actors like Pattni choose to exploit openings in governance structures to benefit themselves and their cronies, communities suffer and public trust is undermined,” said Bradley T. Smith, Acting Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence.&nbsp;

“Corruption respects no borders and its consequences are felt worldwide. As we mark International Anti-Corruption Day, the United States reaffirms our commitment to use all available tools to hold these individuals to account for their schemes.”&nbsp;

The UK also designated Pattni on Monday.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States and Britain have launched a new round of sanctions aimed at disrupting the illicit gold trade, which, as per the United Kingdom, is allegedly funding Russian President Vladimir Putin's military operations in Ukraine and backing corruption.

The United States and Britain have launched a new round of sanctions aimed at disrupting the illicit gold trade, which, as per the United Kingdom, is allegedly funding Russian President Vladimir Putin's military operations in Ukraine and backing corruption. The UK government imposed asset freezes on four people that it said were accused of involvement in illicit Russian gold trade. "Illicit gold is an assault on the legitimate trade of a valuable commodity, fuelling corruption, undermining the rule of law, and entrenching human rights abuses such as child labour," the British Foreign Office said in a statement. Also read: 100k victims; 50 nations, $1mn daily revenue: Russia raids massive scam centre "Russia uses the illicit gold trade to launder money and evade sanctions, in doing so bolstering Putin's war efforts." Last week, Britain and the United States joined forces to disrupt a massive global money laundering network used by wealthy Russians to evade sanctions. The United States on Monday imposed sanctions on 28 individuals and businesses allegedly involved in a global gold smuggling and money laundering network based in Zimbabwe. Also read: Syria Islamist rebel leader vows to hold accountable former officials for war crimes The network, which is led by Kamlesh Pattni, is accused of bribing officials, hiding ownership through trusted supporters, and creating a complex web of businesses to conceal illicit activities, said the US Treasury Department in a statement. “Across the globe, when corrupt actors like Pattni choose to exploit openings in governance structures to benefit themselves and their cronies, communities suffer and public trust is undermined,” said Bradley T. Smith, Acting Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence. “Corruption respects no borders and its consequences are felt worldwide. As we mark International Anti-Corruption Day, the United States reaffirms our commitment to use all available tools to hold these individuals to account for their schemes.” The UK also designated Pattni on Monday. (With inputs from agencies)

UK, US announce sanctions aimed at disrupting illicit gold trade

Russia’s upper legislative house speaker, Valentina Matviyenko said on Monday (Dec. 2) that she is expecting Russia-Ukraine peace talks to resume next year, after US President-elect Donald Trump will take over the US administration.&nbsp;

"I will express my purely personal opinion. I believe that the probability that there will be a real attempt to start such negotiations and meetings in 2025 is significantly higher than the probability that such attempts will not be made," Matviyenko &nbsp;said in an interview with pro-Kremlin newspaper Argumenty i Fakty.&nbsp;

“We must not and will not make the subject of negotiations any one-day half-measures, agreements of an unclear status, short-term freezes, and so on,” she added.&nbsp;

Russia and Ukraine have not negotiated peace since the first months Russian troops invaded Ukraine in early 2022.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-envoy-for-ukraine-russia-has-hinted-at-plan-to-end-war-its-carrots-and-sticks-for-both-780210">Also read:&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump's envoy for Ukraine-Russia has hinted at plan to end war. It's carrots and sticks for both</a>

Matviyenko, who is also third in line for the Russian presidency, further accused US President Biden's administration, which gave Ukraine approval to strike long-range ATACMS missiles into Russia for the first time.&nbsp;

“The leaders of the negotiation process on the other side will have to show certain strong qualities. How ready they’ll be, I don’t know,” she said.&nbsp;

US President Biden reiterated the US's support for Ukraine after it dealt with a recent "horrific" Russian attack, by launching nearly 200 missiles and drones against Ukrainian cities and energy infrastructure.&nbsp;

Moreover, Trump has pledged to end the war swiftly, which has raised concerns that he would try to force Ukraine to accept a deal on Russia's terms.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: NATO, Ukraine To Convene Emergency Talks Afer Russia's Hypersonic Missile Strike

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-nato-ukraine-to-convene-emergency-talks-afer-russias-hypersonic-missile-strike-778692/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky insisted that Ukraine needs security guarantees from NATO and more weapons to defend itself before beginning any negotiations with Moscow.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia’s upper legislative house speaker, Valentina Matviyenko said on Monday (Dec. 2) that she is expecting Russia-Ukraine peace talks to resume next year, after US President-elect Donald Trump will take over the US administration.

Russia’s upper legislative house speaker, Valentina Matviyenko said on Monday (Dec. 2) that she is expecting Russia-Ukraine peace talks to resume next year, after US President-elect Donald Trump will take over the US administration. "I will express my purely personal opinion. I believe that the probability that there will be a real attempt to start such negotiations and meetings in 2025 is significantly higher than the probability that such attempts will not be made," Matviyenko said in an interview with pro-Kremlin newspaper Argumenty i Fakty. “We must not and will not make the subject of negotiations any one-day half-measures, agreements of an unclear status, short-term freezes, and so on,” she added. Russia and Ukraine have not negotiated peace since the first months Russian troops invaded Ukraine in early 2022. Also read: Trump's envoy for Ukraine-Russia has hinted at plan to end war. It's carrots and sticks for both Matviyenko, who is also third in line for the Russian presidency, further accused US President Biden's administration, which gave Ukraine approval to strike long-range ATACMS missiles into Russia for the first time. “The leaders of the negotiation process on the other side will have to show certain strong qualities. How ready they’ll be, I don’t know,” she said. US President Biden reiterated the US's support for Ukraine after it dealt with a recent "horrific" Russian attack, by launching nearly 200 missiles and drones against Ukrainian cities and energy infrastructure. Moreover, Trump has pledged to end the war swiftly, which has raised concerns that he would try to force Ukraine to accept a deal on Russia's terms. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: NATO, Ukraine To Convene Emergency Talks Afer Russia's Hypersonic Missile Strike × However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky insisted that Ukraine needs security guarantees from NATO and more weapons to defend itself before beginning any negotiations with Moscow. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Russian senate speaker expecting Ukraine peace talks next year: Report

Ukraine on Wednesday called on its Western allies not to fuel tension in the country, after a string of embassies in Kyiv announced they would close, citing the threat of a "massive air attack" on the capital.

Ukraine on Wednesday called on its Western allies not to fuel tension in the country, after a string of embassies in Kyiv announced they would close, citing the threat of a "massive air attack" on the capital. The warnings of fresh strikes come as Moscow looks to retaliate against Ukraine for firing US-supplied long-range missiles on Russian territory for the first time and with the Kremlin accusing outgoing US President Joe Biden of dragging out the war. Russia has already ramped up a wave of deadly missile strikes in recent days, targeting residential areas and Ukraine's energy grid. Air alerts blare out across the country daily. The United States led the wave of closures, saying it was shutting its Kyiv office to the public after having received "specific information of a potential significant air attack" on Wednesday. It did not provide further details. Greece, Hungary, Italy, and Spain -- all NATO members -- followed suit, announcing the closures of their diplomatic premises in the capital. Ukrainian officials criticised the rare move and called on its allies not to spread yet more fear among Ukrainian society. Also read: Italy, Spain, Greece close embassies in Kyiv after US; Kremlin rejects ‘freeze’ on Ukraine war 'Psychological operation' Kyiv said the "information" the US was referring to looked to be a "psychological operation" launched by Moscow in a bid to destabilise the country. "We remind you that the threat of strikes by the aggressor state has unfortunately been a daily reality for Ukrainians for over 1,000 days," Ukraine's foreign ministry said in a statement on social media. The GUR military intelligence directorate said a "fake" message was being spread on social media, purporting to be a warning from them over a massive bomb attack on Kyiv. "A terrorist country is conducting a massive information and psychological attack against Ukraine," it said in a statement. Nerves are already frayed in Kyiv after almost three years of war, and Trump's victory in the US presidential election has injected fresh uncertainty. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Accuses West of Provocation × The Republican has repeatedly criticised US support for Ukraine and claimed he could broker a ceasefire within hours -- comments that have triggered fears in Kyiv and Europe about Ukraine's ability to withstand the Russian attacks without American support. Both Ukraine and Russia are jockeying for the upper hand on the battlefield before he re-enters the White House in January. Russia on Wednesday accused Biden of prolonging the war by stepping up weapons deliveries to Kyiv in his final weeks in office. "If you look at the trends of the outgoing US administration, they are fully committed to continuing the war in Ukraine and are doing everything they can to do so," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. Peskov was responding to the US saying it would soon provide Ukraine with antipersonnel land mines. 'Big mistake' World leaders have taken note of the step-up in American support for Kyiv. Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, a NATO ally of the US, said Wednesday the decision to allow Kyiv to use the powerful long-range missiles was a "big mistake." "This step by Biden will not only escalate the conflict but will lead to a greater reaction from Russia," Ergodan, who sees himself as a possible mediator, told journalists. Moscow has struck a defiant tone, pledging retribution and continuing its advance on the front lines. Its forces claimed Wednesday to have captured the town of Illinka, close to the strategic hub of Kurakhove in the eastern Donetsk region. The Kremlin also rejected as "absurd" and "laughable" suggestions it was involved in the cutting of two telecommunications cables running under the Baltic Sea. European officials have said they suspect "sabotage" and "hybrid warfare" linked to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Despite increased rumblings of possible talks to end the conflict, there is no sign of Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky being anywhere close to converging on a possible deal. Zelensky, who warned Tuesday Ukraine would lose the war if Washington pulled funding, has ruled out ceding territory in exchange for peace. Putin has demanded Ukraine's troops abandon four regions in its south and east as a precondition to ceasefire talks. Both have rejected a temporary pause in combat or freezing of the conflict along the current front lines. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ukraine calls on Western allies not to fuel tension in country after embassies closure

moscow

Moscow, News on Moscow, stories on Moscow, articles on Moscow, Moscow stories at Wion, Moscow news, Moscow latest news