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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

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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
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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

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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
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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

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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

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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

A Russian military court sentenced on Thursday a man to 24 years in prison for the attempted arson of a military recruitment office, state media reported.

Russia has seen a spate of arson attacks on draft offices since it sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022.

Authorities have prosecuted harshly those caught attempting to throw Molotov cocktails at military offices, meting out several years-long sentences to alleged perpetrators.

The second western military district court sentenced crane operator Sergei Andreyev to 24 years in a prison colony on "treason" and "terrorism" charges after he twice attempted to set fire to an enlistment office in Moscow in autumn 2023, the state-run TASS news agency reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-escalates-attack-on-ukraine-hits-kyiv-with-major-drone-and-missile-strikes-775831">Also read:&nbsp;Russia escalates attack on Ukraine, hits Kyiv with major drone and missile strikes</a>

The first time the device did not explode and on the second occasion, it did, but caused no significant damage or casualties, the independent Sota Vision outlet reported, citing case materials.

The 24-year sentence is one of the longest handed down for such an offence.

Prosecutors accused him of working on behalf of Ukrainian secret services.

Investigators had found pyrotechnic components at his house when he was arrested in November 2023.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Targets Eight Regions Of Ukraine

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Andreyev's lawyers had asked for the "treason" and "terrorism" charges to be changed to "arson", which carries a lesser sentence.
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Russian courts have opened hundreds of criminal cases against those who prosecutors say oppose the Ukraine conflict and are accused of working with Kyiv's army or undermining the military offensive.

Earlier on Thursday, the same court sentenced a 43-year-old woman to eight years in prison for social media posts calling for President Vladimir Putin to be killed and reporting on alleged Russian atrocities in Ukraine.

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.

A Russian military court sentenced on Thursday a man to 24 years in prison for the attempted arson of a military recruitment office, state media reported. Russia has seen a spate of arson attacks on draft offices since it sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022.

A Russian military court sentenced on Thursday a man to 24 years in prison for the attempted arson of a military recruitment office, state media reported. Russia has seen a spate of arson attacks on draft offices since it sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022. Authorities have prosecuted harshly those caught attempting to throw Molotov cocktails at military offices, meting out several years-long sentences to alleged perpetrators. The second western military district court sentenced crane operator Sergei Andreyev to 24 years in a prison colony on "treason" and "terrorism" charges after he twice attempted to set fire to an enlistment office in Moscow in autumn 2023, the state-run TASS news agency reported. Also read: Russia escalates attack on Ukraine, hits Kyiv with major drone and missile strikes The first time the device did not explode and on the second occasion, it did, but caused no significant damage or casualties, the independent Sota Vision outlet reported, citing case materials. The 24-year sentence is one of the longest handed down for such an offence. Prosecutors accused him of working on behalf of Ukrainian secret services. Investigators had found pyrotechnic components at his house when he was arrested in November 2023. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Targets Eight Regions Of Ukraine × Andreyev's lawyers had asked for the "treason" and "terrorism" charges to be changed to "arson", which carries a lesser sentence. Russian courts have opened hundreds of criminal cases against those who prosecutors say oppose the Ukraine conflict and are accused of working with Kyiv's army or undermining the military offensive. Earlier on Thursday, the same court sentenced a 43-year-old woman to eight years in prison for social media posts calling for President Vladimir Putin to be killed and reporting on alleged Russian atrocities in Ukraine. 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.

Russian man sentenced to 24 years in prison for army office arson attempts

A video has gone viral on social media platforms capturing the vile moment a sewage pipe blasted and a fountain of filthy water rose - as high as a 10-story tower block - in Moscow.

A video has gone viral on social media platforms capturing the vile moment a sewage pipe blasted and a fountain of filthy water rose - as high as a 10-story tower block - in Moscow. In the stomach-churning video, a tower of murky water is seen rising from a pipe in the neighbourhood of what looks like a construction site in the Novaya Moskva district. Soon the water rained down on nearby cars and buildings. According to some Moscow-based Telegram channels, dirty water rose at such a height because of the extreme pressure by which the water was forced through a gas pipeline. Also Read: Did Russia use 'father of all bombs', the ODAB-9000 vacuum bomb, on Ukraine? Speaking about the blast, The Watch Out, Moscow channel said, "Regional Gazprom told us that this is how air is purged for a new section of the gas pipeline. The situation is normal and is under the control of specialists." It was reported that the clean-up crews reached the site and contained the sewage. Moscow Telegram channels report that the sewage system in Moscow broke down. A "fountain" the height of a residential building is seen in one of Moscow's districts. A sh*t show, literally. pic.twitter.com/n8K30uAnJz — Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) October 28, 2024 × The fountain of sewage rose 180 feet in the air and seconds later, splashed waste water on several cars and pedestrians close to it. Here's how netizens reacted to the video The video was shared on social media by former adviser to Ukraine's interior ministry Anton Gerashchenko who called it "a s**tshow, literally!". Meanwhile, one user on X said, "I see Moscow's newest fountain attraction which represents everything about them." "The s**it in Moscow is apparently under very high pressure," commented another. "The most accurate representation of Russian society and civilization since Tolstoy's War and Peace," wrote a third user. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Russia's Drills Demonstrate Full Nuclear Triad Readiness The video has more than 3.7 million views currently, more than 43,000 likes and nearly 10,000 reposts. "Imagine that it all fall down, transported by wind, smell... beurk!!!" wrote another user while sympathising with those who cleaned it up. "And the technicians are in the trenches at the frontline," said another user. "This is one of those moments where I really, really hope Ukraine did do it," said a user on X. "Is this the thermal heating system being purged. In our apartment in Craiova the heating is pressurised in October and the water that come out is rusty coloured like this," wrote another user. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Sewage pipe bursts in Moscow, shoots tower block-sized 'fountain of poop'

South Korea on Tuesday (Oct 22)&nbsp;threatened to consider sending offensive weapons to Ukraine amid reports that troops from the North have been rushed to aid Russia’s war efforts. Seoul is worried that the deepening military partnership between Moscow and Pyongyang may end up boosting North Korea’s weapons technologies, including nuclear and missile programmes.

South Korea’s top officials earlier condemned the North’s alleged move to send soldiers to Russia in the National Security Council meeting. Terming it “a grave security threat”, Seoul alleged Pyongyang was forcing its youth to serve as Russian mercenaries for an unjustifiable war in Ukraine.

The officials in a statement said Seoul would take phased countermeasures, based on the level of cooperation North Korean and Russian militaries exhibit in coming days.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjFwYubuqKJAxXJzjQHHcOuMygQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-amends-constitution-declares-south-korea-a-hostile-state-768166" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-amends-constitution-declares-south-korea-a-hostile-state-768166&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjFwYubuqKJAxXJzjQHHcOuMygQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">North Korea amends constitution, declares South Korea a 'hostile' state</a>

A senior South Korean presidential official was quoted as saying by news agencies that Seoul was considering sending both defensive and offensive weapons to Ukraine, apart from taking diplomatic and economic actions.

<h2>Why is S Korea&nbsp;worried?</h2>

Seoul is concerned that Moscow&nbsp;may offer high-tech technologies to Pyongyang to help it perfect its nuclear missiles, in exchange for support in Ukraine.

Of all, the biggest concern is Pyongyang’s potential acquisition of a space-based surveillance system&nbsp;that would pose a serious security threat to South Korea.

Seoul’s intelligence agency last week confirmed that North Korea sent 1,500 special operation forces to Russia this month.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had claimed that his government had intelligence that 10,000 North Korean soldiers were being prepared to join invading Russian forces.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjFwYubuqKJAxXJzjQHHcOuMygQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-to-send-12000-troops-to-fight-alongside-russia-in-its-war-against-ukraine-seoul-768749" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-to-send-12000-troops-to-fight-alongside-russia-in-its-war-against-ukraine-seoul-768749&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjFwYubuqKJAxXJzjQHHcOuMygQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE">North Korea to send 12,000 troops to fight alongside Russia in its war against Ukraine: Seoul</a>

However, both North Korea and Russia have rubbished these reports.

Russia’s United Nations Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia dismissed the claims on Monday (Oct 21), accusing the West of “circulating scaremongering with Iranian, Chinese and Korean bogeymen, each one of which is more absurd than the one before.”

(With inputs from agencies)

South Korea on Tuesday (Oct 22) threatened to consider sending offensive weapons to Ukraine amid reports that troops from the North have been rushed to aid Russia’s war efforts.

South Korea on Tuesday (Oct 22) threatened to consider sending offensive weapons to Ukraine amid reports that troops from the North have been rushed to aid Russia’s war efforts. Seoul is worried that the deepening military partnership between Moscow and Pyongyang may end up boosting North Korea’s weapons technologies, including nuclear and missile programmes. South Korea’s top officials earlier condemned the North’s alleged move to send soldiers to Russia in the National Security Council meeting. Terming it “a grave security threat”, Seoul alleged Pyongyang was forcing its youth to serve as Russian mercenaries for an unjustifiable war in Ukraine. The officials in a statement said Seoul would take phased countermeasures, based on the level of cooperation North Korean and Russian militaries exhibit in coming days. Also read: North Korea amends constitution, declares South Korea a 'hostile' state A senior South Korean presidential official was quoted as saying by news agencies that Seoul was considering sending both defensive and offensive weapons to Ukraine, apart from taking diplomatic and economic actions. Why is S Korea worried? Seoul is concerned that Moscow may offer high-tech technologies to Pyongyang to help it perfect its nuclear missiles, in exchange for support in Ukraine. Of all, the biggest concern is Pyongyang’s potential acquisition of a space-based surveillance system that would pose a serious security threat to South Korea. Seoul’s intelligence agency last week confirmed that North Korea sent 1,500 special operation forces to Russia this month. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had claimed that his government had intelligence that 10,000 North Korean soldiers were being prepared to join invading Russian forces. Also read: North Korea to send 12,000 troops to fight alongside Russia in its war against Ukraine: Seoul However, both North Korea and Russia have rubbished these reports. Russia’s United Nations Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia dismissed the claims on Monday (Oct 21), accusing the West of “circulating scaremongering with Iranian, Chinese and Korean bogeymen, each one of which is more absurd than the one before.” (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea to send ‘offensive’ weapons to Ukraine after North ‘dispatches’ troops to Russia

US President Joe Biden announced a $425 million arms package for Kyiv Wednesday in a call with President Volodymr Zelensky, ahead of a meeting with European leaders in Berlin to discuss Ukraine, the White House said. On a call with Ukrainian President Biden stressed on his efforts to surge security assistance to Kyiv over the remainder of his term in office. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Is Pushing NATO Into Direct Conflict With Moscow, Says Russia

Ukraine is under increasing pressure as Russian forces intensify their assaults on the battlefield. Amid heavy fighting, Ukrainian troops are struggling to hold key positions, facing significant challenges as the conflict escalates in several regions.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine Is Facing Russian Heat On Battlefield

Vyacheslav Volodin, Speaker of Russia’s lower house of parliament, cautioned that Ukrainian strikes on Russian territory using Western-supplied missiles could escalate into a “global war with nuclear weapons.” He warned that Moscow would respond with more powerful weaponry if the West approves such attacks.

Russia-Ukraine: Could The Conflict Escalate Into A Nuclear War? Putin’s Ally Warns It Might

Media reports show the first scheduled discussions between the international monetary fund (IMF) and Russia since the beginning of Moscow's invasion of Ukraine have been postponed indefinitely. This is due to opposition from governments within the European union.

IMF halts Russia review after EU nations criticise plan

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, during his visit to Kyiv said that the delivery of Iranian missiles to Russia has shifted the debate on Ukraine's use of Western-provided long-range missiles against targets within Russia.

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine to use long-range missiles in Russia?

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