<p>Foreign ministers of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on Wednesday (Apr 3) discussed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and analysed how to put military support for Kyiv on a long-term footing. The meeting was also to mark NATO's 75th anniversary and to prepare for the summit in Washington in July.</p>

<p>They talked about a 100 billion euro ($107 billion) five-year fund proposal and also discussed a plan seen as a way to "Trump-proof" aid for Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg weighed in on ways to change the process of aid channelling to Ukraine for its fight against Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is widely expected that the proposals by the NATO chief would give the Western alliance a more direct role in coordinating the supply of arms, ammunition and equipment to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russians-rush-to-join-army-seeking-to-avenge-moscow-concert-hall-attack-707226">Russians rush to join army seeking to avenge Moscow concert hall attack</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It's the first <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ForMin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ForMin</a> of the year, and it's a special one!<br />
<br />
On the agenda:<br />
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🔹 Support to 🇺🇦 Ukraine<br />
🔹 Meeting with Indo-Pacific partners and 🇪🇺 EU<br />
🔹 NATO’s southern neighborhood<br />
🔹 New policy on Women, Peace and Security<br />
🔹 Washington <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NATOSummit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NATOSummit</a><br />
🔹 NATO’s 75th anniversary🎂</p>
— NATO (@NATO) <a href="https://twitter.com/NATO/status/1775487235866959905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"We need to shift the dynamics of our support. We must ensure reliable and predictable security assistance to Ukraine for the long haul, so that we rely less on voluntary contributions and more on NATO commitments. Less on short-term offers and more on multi-year pledges," Stoltenberg said as he arrived at the Brussels meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Stoltenberg, however, didn't confirm levels of funding and said the aim was for a decision to be taken at a July summit of NATO member states' leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the meeting, NATO's principles an achievements were discussed, it was reiterated that an attack on one ally is an attack on all.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-lowers-army-draft-age-to-25-to-generate-more-fighting-power-707187">Ukraine lowers army draft age to 25 to generate more fighting power</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This week NATO will celebrate its 75th anniversary.<br />
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📺 Watch our documentary that explores the moments that define the Alliance, through the eyes and personal experiences of people who have witnessed pivotal moments in its history<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/1NATO75years?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#1NATO75years</a></p>
— NATO (@NATO) <a href="https://twitter.com/NATO/status/1775219764010401910?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>NATO chief noted that Europe now faces war on a scale "we thought was resigned to history". He said that Russia has launched new major attacks, striking Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure in recent days. "And Russia continues to press along the frontlines," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We must stand firm in our support to Ukraine. and I welcome that Allies continue to make major deliveries of weapons, ammunition, and equipment. […] NATO Allies provide 99 per cent of all military support to Ukraine. So doing more under NATO would make our efforts more efficient, and more effective," he said.</p>

<p><em><strong>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&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Foreign ministers of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on Wednesday (Apr 3) discussed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and analysed how to put military support for Kyiv on a long-term footing.

Foreign ministers of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on Wednesday (Apr 3) discussed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and analysed how to put military support for Kyiv on a long-term footing. The meeting was also to mark NATO's 75th anniversary and to prepare for the summit in Washington in July. They talked about a 100 billion euro ($107 billion) five-year fund proposal and also discussed a plan seen as a way to "Trump-proof" aid for Ukraine. Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg weighed in on ways to change the process of aid channelling to Ukraine for its fight against Russia. It is widely expected that the proposals by the NATO chief would give the Western alliance a more direct role in coordinating the supply of arms, ammunition and equipment to Ukraine. Also read: Russians rush to join army seeking to avenge Moscow concert hall attack It's the first #ForMin of the year, and it's a special one! On the agenda: 🔹 Support to 🇺🇦 Ukraine 🔹 Meeting with Indo-Pacific partners and 🇪🇺 EU 🔹 NATO’s southern neighborhood 🔹 New policy on Women, Peace and Security 🔹 Washington #NATOSummit 🔹 NATO’s 75th anniversary🎂 — NATO (@NATO) April 3, 2024 × "We need to shift the dynamics of our support. We must ensure reliable and predictable security assistance to Ukraine for the long haul, so that we rely less on voluntary contributions and more on NATO commitments. Less on short-term offers and more on multi-year pledges," Stoltenberg said as he arrived at the Brussels meeting. Stoltenberg, however, didn't confirm levels of funding and said the aim was for a decision to be taken at a July summit of NATO member states' leaders. During the meeting, NATO's principles an achievements were discussed, it was reiterated that an attack on one ally is an attack on all. Also read: Ukraine lowers army draft age to 25 to generate more fighting power This week NATO will celebrate its 75th anniversary. 📺 Watch our documentary that explores the moments that define the Alliance, through the eyes and personal experiences of people who have witnessed pivotal moments in its history#1NATO75years — NATO (@NATO) April 2, 2024 × NATO chief noted that Europe now faces war on a scale "we thought was resigned to history". He said that Russia has launched new major attacks, striking Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure in recent days. "And Russia continues to press along the frontlines," he said. "We must stand firm in our support to Ukraine. and I welcome that Allies continue to make major deliveries of weapons, ammunition, and equipment. […] NATO Allies provide 99 per cent of all military support to Ukraine. So doing more under NATO would make our efforts more efficient, and more effective," he said. 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)

NATO chief weighs in on ‘multi-year’ commitments to support Ukraine for ‘long haul’

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with France's Minister of Defense in Paris. Both the leaders discussed the ongoing collaboration with Europe in supporting Ukraine. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: NATO foreign ministers to discuss long term support for Ukraine

On Gotland in the Baltic Sea, Swedish troops are training to defend the country's largest island, once of critical importance to the Nordic nation and now a strategic outpost for NATO since Sweden joined the alliance.

Swedish troops train to defend NATO’s new strategic Baltic outpost on Gotland

NATO foreign ministers meet on Wednesday to discuss how to put military support for Ukraine on a long-term footing, including a proposal for a $107 billion five-year fund and a plan seen as a way to "Trump-proof" aid for Kyiv.

NATO foreign ministers to discuss $107 bn military aid for Kyiv

NATO mulls 'Trump-proof' aid package for Kyiv, Blinken renews calls for Congress to release aid

Russia has no designs on any NATO country and will not attack Poland, the Baltic states or the Czech Republic but if the West supplies F-16 fighters to Ukraine then they will be shot down by Russian forces, President Vladimir Putin said late on Wednesday.

Putin says Russia will not attack NATO, but F-16s will be shot down in Ukraine | WION Fineprint

Russia has no designs on any NATO country and will not attack Poland, the Baltic states or the Czech Republic but if the West supplies F-16 fighters to Ukraine then they will be shot down by Russian forces, President Vladimir Putin said late on Wednesday (March 27).

Will Russia attack NATO if F-16s are sent to Ukraine? Here's what Putin has to say

NATO Chief Jen Stoltenberg visited the Armenian capital of Yerevan on Tuesday. Speaking to residents of the village of Voskepar in Tavush region Nikol Pashinyan warned Armenia's refusal to delineate the Border could trigger a new confrontation. Watch to know more!

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg visits Armenia, calls for peace with Azerbaijan

<p>Republican presidential frontrunner Donald Trump has restated his position that the United States would only come to the defence of NATO members in the event of a Russian attack if Washington's European allies increased their defence spending. Trump made this reassertion in an interview with Britain's GB News.</p>

<p>Asked if the US would defend NATO allies if they purportedly&nbsp;started to "pay their bills properly", Trump said, "Yes. But the United States should pay its fair share, not everybody else's fair share."</p>

<p>"So if they start to play fair, America's there?" interviewer Nigel Farage asked.</p>

<p>"Yes. 100 per cent," Trump replied.</p>

<p>Earlier, in a&nbsp;campaign rally, Trump had suggested that if a NATO member failed to meet defence spending targets, he would not discourage Russia from taking aggressive actions against them.</p>

<p>In his latest interview, Trump defended his earlier comment about the possibility of a "bloodbath" if he lost the election, referring specifically to the American auto industry.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Was Donald Trump misquoted on 'bloodbath' comment?</strong></p>

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<p>The former US president has frequently criticised NATO members for not meeting the alliance's defence spending goal of 2 per cent of GDP, saying that the United States is shouldering a disproportionate share of the financial burden.</p>

<p>While NATO estimates indicate that only 11 members currently meet this target, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said that 18 allies will reach it this year.</p>

<p>In response to criticism of his February remarks over NATO allies' defence spending, Trump said that he did not care if his political opponents used them against him in the run-up to the November 5 election.</p>

<p>"I don't care if they use it," Trump said. "Because what I'm saying is a form of negotiation. Why should we guard these countries that have a lot of money and the United States was paying for most of NATO?" Trump said.</p>

<h2><strong>Trump repeats hardline stance on illegal border crossings</strong></h2>

<p>Asked about his immigration policy, Trump repeated his stance on illegal border crossings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You can come into the country, but you have to come in legally. They're here illegally, especially these criminals. I'm going to deport them. We're going to get them out right away," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Republican presidential frontrunner Donald Trump has restated his position that the United States would only come to the defence of NATO members in the event of a Russian attack if Washington's European allies increased their defence spending.

Republican presidential frontrunner Donald Trump has restated his position that the United States would only come to the defence of NATO members in the event of a Russian attack if Washington's European allies increased their defence spending. Trump made this reassertion in an interview with Britain's GB News. Asked if the US would defend NATO allies if they purportedly started to "pay their bills properly", Trump said, "Yes. But the United States should pay its fair share, not everybody else's fair share." "So if they start to play fair, America's there?" interviewer Nigel Farage asked. "Yes. 100 per cent," Trump replied. Earlier, in a campaign rally, Trump had suggested that if a NATO member failed to meet defence spending targets, he would not discourage Russia from taking aggressive actions against them. In his latest interview, Trump defended his earlier comment about the possibility of a "bloodbath" if he lost the election, referring specifically to the American auto industry. Also watch | Was Donald Trump misquoted on 'bloodbath' comment? × The former US president has frequently criticised NATO members for not meeting the alliance's defence spending goal of 2 per cent of GDP, saying that the United States is shouldering a disproportionate share of the financial burden. While NATO estimates indicate that only 11 members currently meet this target, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said that 18 allies will reach it this year. In response to criticism of his February remarks over NATO allies' defence spending, Trump said that he did not care if his political opponents used them against him in the run-up to the November 5 election. "I don't care if they use it," Trump said. "Because what I'm saying is a form of negotiation. Why should we guard these countries that have a lot of money and the United States was paying for most of NATO?" Trump said. Trump repeats hardline stance on illegal border crossings Asked about his immigration policy, Trump repeated his stance on illegal border crossings. "You can come into the country, but you have to come in legally. They're here illegally, especially these criminals. I'm going to deport them. We're going to get them out right away," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump repeats 'fair share' condition for US help to NATO allies

A spark can ignite a blaze that can actually engulf the entire world. Ukraine's war is casting an ominous Shadow is the Spectre of NATO and Russia stumbling into an open conflict looms large over the world. Watch in for more details!

Ukraine war: Decoding the ripple effect of NATO's expansion | Tensions Simmer in Europe

Construction has begun on the largest NATO base in Europe in Romania. The plan is to expand the Romanian Air Force 57th Air Base to include runways, hangars for aircraft, facilities for weapons, as well as accomodation to host up to 10,000 NATO soldiers and their families.

Gravitas: Putin's war petrifies NATO | US led bloc builds largest Europe base in Romania

Russian President Vladimir Putin in his election victory speech, has warned that presence of Western troops in Ukraine could push the world to the brink of World War 3.

Gravitas: Putin's fiery speech spooks NATO; warns of World War 3 if Western troops enter Ukraine

Germany is hosting a massive military exercise which is the largest such for German land forces since the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The drills are part of the multinational exercises and the US Army will lead the drills that focus on Readiness and interoperability between NATO and also its key partners. Watch to know more!

NATO holds military drills in Germany, multinational exercise 'Allied Spirit 2024' kicks off

<p>The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) secretary general Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday (Mar 14) said that the member nations must step up sending arms to Ukraine as&nbsp;Kyiv is running out of ammunition in its war against Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Stoltenberg's comment underlines the current state of the war, as he said that the NATO allies had the capacity to provide more to Ukraine but needed to show the political will to do so.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a press conference, Stoltenberg said, "NATO allies are not providing Ukraine with enough ammunition and that has consequences on the battlefield every day."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/denmark-to-start-conscripting-women-for-military-service-700114">Denmark to start conscripting women for military service</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>He mentioned that Russians able to dominate the Ukrainians is a huge challenge and shortage of ammunition is one of the reasons why Moscow has been able to make advances on the battlefield over the last weeks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Therefore it is an urgent need for allies to make the decisions necessary to step up, provide more ammunition to Ukraine," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several ground reports have claimed that Ukraine's military has recently been grappling with significantly reduced weapons supplies from the West more than two years after the war started.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-urges-citizens-including-annexed-ukrainians-to-vote-as-moldova-accuses-russia-of-breaking-laws-699893">Russia election 2024: Putin urges citizens to vote even as Moldova accuses Moscow of breaking laws</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Ukrainian drones target Russian oil facilities&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>NATO chief on Russian election</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Stoltenberg further added that any attempt to organise Russian elections in occupied regions of Ukraine would be illegal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "(Russian) President (Vladimir) Putin has held power in Russia for decades. No one expects Russia's elections this week to bring any change in the Kremlin. And of course, Russia's attempts to organise any part of an election in occupied regions of Ukraine are completely illegal, violating international law."&nbsp;</p>

<p>President Vladimir Putin is in all probability expected&nbsp;to win a new six-year term in the March 15-17 vote. This would enable him to overtake Josef Stalin to become Russia's longest-serving leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Kyiv has slammed the polls with&nbsp;Ukrainian Foreign Ministry&nbsp;on Thursday saying that Russia's staging of elections in occupied territories of Ukraine is illegal and void. The ministry urged international partners not to recognise the results.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It further said that the electoral campaign in&nbsp;Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, all partially controlled by Russia, as well as Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014, was another demonstration of Moscow's "continued flagrant disregard for international law norms and principles".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) secretary general Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday (Mar 14) said that the member nations must step up sending arms to Ukraine as Kyiv is running out of ammunition in its war against Russia.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) secretary general Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday (Mar 14) said that the member nations must step up sending arms to Ukraine as Kyiv is running out of ammunition in its war against Russia. Stoltenberg's comment underlines the current state of the war, as he said that the NATO allies had the capacity to provide more to Ukraine but needed to show the political will to do so. During a press conference, Stoltenberg said, "NATO allies are not providing Ukraine with enough ammunition and that has consequences on the battlefield every day." Also read: Denmark to start conscripting women for military service He mentioned that Russians able to dominate the Ukrainians is a huge challenge and shortage of ammunition is one of the reasons why Moscow has been able to make advances on the battlefield over the last weeks. "Therefore it is an urgent need for allies to make the decisions necessary to step up, provide more ammunition to Ukraine," he added. Several ground reports have claimed that Ukraine's military has recently been grappling with significantly reduced weapons supplies from the West more than two years after the war started. Also read: Russia election 2024: Putin urges citizens to vote even as Moldova accuses Moscow of breaking laws Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Ukrainian drones target Russian oil facilities × NATO chief on Russian election Stoltenberg further added that any attempt to organise Russian elections in occupied regions of Ukraine would be illegal. He said, "(Russian) President (Vladimir) Putin has held power in Russia for decades. No one expects Russia's elections this week to bring any change in the Kremlin. And of course, Russia's attempts to organise any part of an election in occupied regions of Ukraine are completely illegal, violating international law." President Vladimir Putin is in all probability expected to win a new six-year term in the March 15-17 vote. This would enable him to overtake Josef Stalin to become Russia's longest-serving leader. Meanwhile, Kyiv has slammed the polls with Ukrainian Foreign Ministry on Thursday saying that Russia's staging of elections in occupied territories of Ukraine is illegal and void. The ministry urged international partners not to recognise the results. It further said that the electoral campaign in Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, all partially controlled by Russia, as well as Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014, was another demonstration of Moscow's "continued flagrant disregard for international law norms and principles". (With inputs from agencies)

NATO's Jens Stoltenberg urges allies to step up delivery of weapons to Ukraine

<p>A new school textbook titled "The Russian Army in Defence of the Fatherland" has stirred controversy as&nbsp;western media outlets&nbsp;suggest it distorts historical facts regarding the war against Ukraine and actively promotes military service among high school students.</p>

<p>This textbook, crafted for the subject "Fundamentals of Security and Defence of the Motherland," is set to replace the existing "Fundamentals of Safe Living" curriculum in Russia and occupied territories in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Produced&nbsp;by prominent figures associated with the Russian defence ministry and Kremlin newspaper Rossiiskaya Gazeta, the 368-page textbook glorifies Russian military exploits from the 13th century to the present day.</p>

<p>The textbook lauds Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin and celebrates past victories, including the annexation of Crimea in 2014, which it terms as the "reunification of Crimea with Russia."</p>

<p>"When there was a coup d'état in Kyiv in 2014, the new government initiated a crackdown on everything Russian," the book read adding, "Russian books were burned, monuments were destroyed, Russian songs and the Russian language itself were banned... 'Russian blood' cocktails were served in restaurants."</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-employees-at-us-wildlife-centre-wear-red-fox-masks-to-take-care-of-an-orphaned-kit-699791">Employees at US wildlife centre wear red fox masks to take care of an orphaned kit</a></p>

<p>Moreover, it labels Russia's invasion of Ukraine as a "special military operation". Critics have reportedly denounced the textbook as a fabrication of misinformation and lies. The book also contains other information such as the situation in Mariupol, a city ravaged by Russian bombing.</p>

<p>The textbook also portrayed Russia as a protector of civilians while demonising Ukraine. As per reports, the book downplayed Russia's destruction of Ukrainian infrastructure and civilian casualties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, the textbook strategically targets over-18s, urging them to enlist in the army by highlighting benefits such as free medical care, attractive salaries, and insurance.</p>

<p>The text also said that "Russia fights with integrity", "Ukraine frequently targets civilian infrastructure", and Mariupol was destroyed during fight with "Nazis" as well as "foreign mercenaries".</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-gets-partial-relief-in-georgia-election-interference-case-699772">Donald Trump gets partial relief in Georgia election interference case</a></p>

<p>It also stated that "it was Ukraine and Nato who planned to start the war" and "a huge number of Ukrainian troops and armoured vehicles were concentrated at the borders".</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russias-putin-talks-about-possible-nuclear-war-699796">Russia's Putin talks about possible nuclear war</a></strong></p>

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<p>Concerns are mounting that textbook dissemination may fuel further recruitment among youth.&nbsp;Since the onset of the war, reports suggest that there is a crackdown on free press in Russia. Dissidents, journalists, and individuals voicing opposition against Putin's regime from within the nation have been forcefully silenced.</p>

<p>Following the commencement of the war in 2022, a law criminalising the dissemination of "fake" information regarding the invasion was swiftly enacted. Thousands&nbsp;of individuals were also reportedly apprehended for participating in protests against the Ukraine war.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on 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.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>


A new school textbook titled "The Russian Army in Defence of the Fatherland" has stirred controversy as western media outlets suggest it distorts historical facts regarding the war against Ukraine and actively promotes military service among high school students.

A new school textbook titled "The Russian Army in Defence of the Fatherland" has stirred controversy as western media outlets suggest it distorts historical facts regarding the war against Ukraine and actively promotes military service among high school students. This textbook, crafted for the subject "Fundamentals of Security and Defence of the Motherland," is set to replace the existing "Fundamentals of Safe Living" curriculum in Russia and occupied territories in Ukraine. Produced by prominent figures associated with the Russian defence ministry and Kremlin newspaper Rossiiskaya Gazeta, the 368-page textbook glorifies Russian military exploits from the 13th century to the present day. The textbook lauds Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin and celebrates past victories, including the annexation of Crimea in 2014, which it terms as the "reunification of Crimea with Russia." "When there was a coup d'état in Kyiv in 2014, the new government initiated a crackdown on everything Russian," the book read adding, "Russian books were burned, monuments were destroyed, Russian songs and the Russian language itself were banned... 'Russian blood' cocktails were served in restaurants." Also Read | Employees at US wildlife centre wear red fox masks to take care of an orphaned kit Moreover, it labels Russia's invasion of Ukraine as a "special military operation". Critics have reportedly denounced the textbook as a fabrication of misinformation and lies. The book also contains other information such as the situation in Mariupol, a city ravaged by Russian bombing. The textbook also portrayed Russia as a protector of civilians while demonising Ukraine. As per reports, the book downplayed Russia's destruction of Ukrainian infrastructure and civilian casualties. Moreover, the textbook strategically targets over-18s, urging them to enlist in the army by highlighting benefits such as free medical care, attractive salaries, and insurance. The text also said that "Russia fights with integrity", "Ukraine frequently targets civilian infrastructure", and Mariupol was destroyed during fight with "Nazis" as well as "foreign mercenaries". Also Read | Donald Trump gets partial relief in Georgia election interference case It also stated that "it was Ukraine and Nato who planned to start the war" and "a huge number of Ukrainian troops and armoured vehicles were concentrated at the borders". Watch | Russia's Putin talks about possible nuclear war × Concerns are mounting that textbook dissemination may fuel further recruitment among youth. Since the onset of the war, reports suggest that there is a crackdown on free press in Russia. Dissidents, journalists, and individuals voicing opposition against Putin's regime from within the nation have been forcefully silenced. Following the commencement of the war in 2022, a law criminalising the dissemination of "fake" information regarding the invasion was swiftly enacted. Thousands of individuals were also reportedly apprehended for participating in protests against the Ukraine war. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on 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.

This is what new Russian school textbook says about Crimea, Mariupol, and NATO

The Pope versus NATO deepens over the former proposal for Ukraine to raise a white flag to Russia. NATO Chief Jens Stoltenberg has voiced disagreement with Pope France's comments that encourage Ukraine to negotiate with Russia.

NATO chief responds to Pope Francis' 'white flag' remark

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<p>Pope Francis is continuing to face criticism over his remarks that war-torn Ukraine should have the "courage of the white flag" and negotiate an end to the war triggered by Russia’s invasion. This time, the pope's remarks have been criticised by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg. On Monday (Mar 11), Secretary-General Stoltenberg told the news agency Reuters that he disagreed with Francis' remarks, adding, that Ukraine needs weapons and not white flags.</p>

<p>"If we want a negotiated peaceful lasting solution, the way to get there is to provide military support to Ukraine," he added. On&nbsp;being asked if his reaction meant now was not the time to talk about a white flag, Stoltenberg said: "It's not the time to talk about surrender by the Ukrainians. That will be a tragedy for the Ukrainians. It will also be dangerous for all of us."</p>

<h2><strong>What did Pope Francis say?</strong></h2>

<p>In February, Pope Francis used the phrase “the courage of the white flag” as he argued that Ukraine, facing a possible defeat, should be open to peace talks brokered by international powers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-pope-francis-white-flag-remark-criticised-by-kyiv-its-allies-698695">Ukraine war: Pope Francis' ‘white flag’ remark criticised by Kyiv, its allies</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking to Swiss broadcaster RSI, Francis insisted that negotiations were never a surrender, adding, "When you see that you are defeated, that things are not going well, you have to have the courage to negotiate."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, the pope's remarks were criticised by the foreign ministers of Ukraine and Poland. A leader of one of Ukraine’s Christian churches on Sunday said that only the country’s determined resistance to Moscow’s full-scale invasion prevented a mass slaughter of civilians.</p>

<h2><strong>German bishops call on Vatican to clarify pope's remarks</strong></h2>

<p>On Monday, German Catholic bishops called on the Vatican to clarify Pope Francis' remarks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The fact that Pope Francis did not address the points mentioned here in his interview caused irritation among many observers, which we can understand. It would be good if the Holy See communicated a substantive clarification of its position on these issues," German bishops said.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;How would Russia react to NATO in Ukraine?</strong></p>

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<p>They added that it was unfortunate that the pope repeated the words "white flag,"&nbsp;but also said it was "self-evident and widely proven to us that the Pope – like the German Bishops' Conference – is committed to a just and lasting peace in Ukraine."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pope Francis is continuing to face criticism over his remarks that war-torn Ukraine should have the "courage of the white flag" and negotiate an end to the war triggered by Russia’s invasion.

Pope Francis is continuing to face criticism over his remarks that war-torn Ukraine should have the "courage of the white flag" and negotiate an end to the war triggered by Russia’s invasion. This time, the pope's remarks have been criticised by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg. On Monday (Mar 11), Secretary-General Stoltenberg told the news agency Reuters that he disagreed with Francis' remarks, adding, that Ukraine needs weapons and not white flags. "If we want a negotiated peaceful lasting solution, the way to get there is to provide military support to Ukraine," he added. On being asked if his reaction meant now was not the time to talk about a white flag, Stoltenberg said: "It's not the time to talk about surrender by the Ukrainians. That will be a tragedy for the Ukrainians. It will also be dangerous for all of us." What did Pope Francis say? In February, Pope Francis used the phrase “the courage of the white flag” as he argued that Ukraine, facing a possible defeat, should be open to peace talks brokered by international powers. Also read | Ukraine war: Pope Francis' ‘white flag’ remark criticised by Kyiv, its allies Speaking to Swiss broadcaster RSI, Francis insisted that negotiations were never a surrender, adding, "When you see that you are defeated, that things are not going well, you have to have the courage to negotiate." Earlier, the pope's remarks were criticised by the foreign ministers of Ukraine and Poland. A leader of one of Ukraine’s Christian churches on Sunday said that only the country’s determined resistance to Moscow’s full-scale invasion prevented a mass slaughter of civilians. German bishops call on Vatican to clarify pope's remarks On Monday, German Catholic bishops called on the Vatican to clarify Pope Francis' remarks. "The fact that Pope Francis did not address the points mentioned here in his interview caused irritation among many observers, which we can understand. It would be good if the Holy See communicated a substantive clarification of its position on these issues," German bishops said. Also watch | How would Russia react to NATO in Ukraine? × They added that it was unfortunate that the pope repeated the words "white flag," but also said it was "self-evident and widely proven to us that the Pope – like the German Bishops' Conference – is committed to a just and lasting peace in Ukraine." (With inputs from agencies)

Kyiv needs weapons, not white flags: NATO chief hits out at pope’s Ukraine war remark

Russian security services have long had information that NATO advisers are in Ukraine, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday. Watch in for more details!

Kremlin says it had information about NATO advisers visit to Ukraine

NATO is holding one of the biggest drills with 90,000 troops from several member nations. The newly expanded 32 nation military alliance is peparing for the event of war.

NATO's biggest military drills aims at showing it can defend all of its territory

NATO's biggest drill since cold war, troops from 31 NATO allies part of mega drill | WION

Will the Russia-Ukraine war spill over beyond its course? Well, the risk of a wider war is increasing by the day. It is now said that the NATO troops in Ukraine is 'not unthinkable'. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war | How would Russia react to NATO in Ukraine?

NATO has begun an extensive military exercise across its newly enlarged Nordic territories spanning Norway, Sweden and Finland. The NATO is holding one of the biggest military drills that it has held with over 90,000 troops from several of its member nations. The newly expanded 32 Nation military Alliance is preparing for the possibility of War. This is the biggest military exercise since the end of the Cold War, sending a message to Russia that the North Atlantic members are ready to defend each other. Watch to know more!

NATO allies join forces in 'Steadfast Defender 2024,' biggest military drill since cold war

<p>Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski said on Friday (Mar 8) that the presence of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) troops in war-torn Ukraine was "not unthinkable," adding he appreciated French President Emmanuel Macron's initiative for not ruling out the idea. In a post on X, the foreign ministry said that Sikorski made this observation during a discussion marking the 25th anniversary of Poland’s accession to NATO in the Polish parliament.</p>

<p>Sikorski said he appreciated Macron's initiative “because it is about Putin being afraid, not us being afraid of Putin.” In February, Macron said that the possibility of Western troops being sent to Ukraine could not be ruled out, a comment that broke a taboo among allies and prompted an outcry from other leaders.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-advocates-for-ukraine-to-show-courage-in-negotiations-698401">Pope encourages Ukraine to show 'white flag' courage in negotiations</a></strong></p>

<p>According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, French officials later sought to clarify Macron’s remarks and tamp down the backlash, while insisting on the need to send a clear signal to Russia that it cannot win its war in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Russia had warned that if NATO sends combat troops, a direct conflict between the intergovernmental military alliance and Moscow would be inevitable. Russian President Vladimir Putin said such a move would risk a global nuclear war.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Turkish President Erdogan offers to host peace summit between Russia &amp; Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk was among those European leaders who initially ruled out sending troops to Ukraine after Macron’s remarks. "Poland does not plan to send its troops to the territory of Ukraine," Prime Minister Tusk said.</p>

<p>However, Sikorski was appreciative of Macron's initiative.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Poland is a member of NATO along the alliance’s eastern flank, with Ukraine across its eastern border. The country has been under Russian control in the past, and fears run high that if Russia wins in Ukraine, it could next target other countries in a region that Moscow views as its sphere of interest.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski said on Friday (Mar 8) that the presence of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) troops in war-torn Ukraine was "not unthinkable," adding he appreciated French President Emmanuel Macron's initiative for not ruling out the idea.

Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski said on Friday (Mar 8) that the presence of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) troops in war-torn Ukraine was "not unthinkable," adding he appreciated French President Emmanuel Macron's initiative for not ruling out the idea. In a post on X, the foreign ministry said that Sikorski made this observation during a discussion marking the 25th anniversary of Poland’s accession to NATO in the Polish parliament. Sikorski said he appreciated Macron's initiative “because it is about Putin being afraid, not us being afraid of Putin.” In February, Macron said that the possibility of Western troops being sent to Ukraine could not be ruled out, a comment that broke a taboo among allies and prompted an outcry from other leaders. Also read | Pope encourages Ukraine to show 'white flag' courage in negotiations According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, French officials later sought to clarify Macron’s remarks and tamp down the backlash, while insisting on the need to send a clear signal to Russia that it cannot win its war in Ukraine. Russia had warned that if NATO sends combat troops, a direct conflict between the intergovernmental military alliance and Moscow would be inevitable. Russian President Vladimir Putin said such a move would risk a global nuclear war. Also watch | Turkish President Erdogan offers to host peace summit between Russia & Ukraine × Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk was among those European leaders who initially ruled out sending troops to Ukraine after Macron’s remarks. "Poland does not plan to send its troops to the territory of Ukraine," Prime Minister Tusk said. However, Sikorski was appreciative of Macron's initiative. Poland is a member of NATO along the alliance’s eastern flank, with Ukraine across its eastern border. The country has been under Russian control in the past, and fears run high that if Russia wins in Ukraine, it could next target other countries in a region that Moscow views as its sphere of interest. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: Poland says presence of NATO troops in Ukraine ‘not unthinkable’

NATO's Steadfast Defender 2024 military exercise signals alliance unity

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