Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Sunday said that the government's request to deploy around 1,000 army personnel and police to Kosovo after clashes between the authorities in Kosovo and Serbs was declined by NATO's mission in Kosovo, KFOR.&nbsp;

In 2008, Kosovo declared independence from Serbia to protect Albanians after the 1998-1999 war during which rump-Yugoslavia, which included Montenegro and Serbia, was bombed by NATO.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kosovo-pm-kurti-submits-a-formal-application-to-join-european-union-543424">Kosovo PM Albin Kurti submits a formal application to join European Union</a> 
 
"They (KFOR) replied they consider that there is no need for the return of the Serbian army to Kosovo ... citing the United Nations resolution approving their mandate in Kosovo," said Serbian President Vucic during an interview with the private Pink television.&nbsp;

Serbia requests deployment of troops

Last month, after the war ended, Serbia for the first requested for deployment of military troops in Kosovo after the clashes broke out between Serbs and Kosovo authorities in the northern region, where the former constitute a majority.&nbsp;

The resolution of the UN Security Council resolution says that Serbia should be allowed, if KFOR approves, to deploy its military personnel at the Orthodox Christian religious sites, border crossings and areas where Serbs are present in the majority.&nbsp;

Vucic slammed KFOR for informing about its decision to the Serbian government on the eve of Orthodox Christmas after an off-duty soldier was arrested by Kosovo police for allegedly shooting and hurting two Serbs, who were aged 11 and 21, in the southern town of Shterpce.&nbsp;

Police said that the victims were admitted to the hospital and they did not suffer any life-threatening injuries. The incident was condemned by Kosovo authorities which further escalated tensions.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Kosovo accuses Serbia of supporting Serbs

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Thousands of Serbs protest peacefully in Shterpce&nbsp;

Thousands of Serbs gathered on Sunday to peacefully protest in Shterpce against what they termed as "violence against Serbs".&nbsp;

Head of the Serb List, Kosovo's main Serb party, Goran Rakic, alleged that Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti of making efforts to drive out Serbs.

"His goal is to create such conditions so that Serbs leave their homes. My message is that we must not surrender,” Rakic said.&nbsp;

As per the Serbian media report, another man was allegedly attacked by Albanians on Saturday. The media in Pristina claimed that a Kosovo bus going, that was travelling via Serbia to Germany, was attacked and rocks were used to break its windscreen on the same day.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Sunday said that the government's request to deploy around 1,000 army personnel and police to Kosovo after clashes between the authorities in Kosovo and Serbs was declined by NATO's mission in Kosovo, KFOR.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Sunday said that the government's request to deploy around 1,000 army personnel and police to Kosovo after clashes between the authorities in Kosovo and Serbs was declined by NATO's mission in Kosovo, KFOR. In 2008, Kosovo declared independence from Serbia to protect Albanians after the 1998-1999 war during which rump-Yugoslavia, which included Montenegro and Serbia, was bombed by NATO. ALSO READ| Kosovo PM Albin Kurti submits a formal application to join European Union "They (KFOR) replied they consider that there is no need for the return of the Serbian army to Kosovo ... citing the United Nations resolution approving their mandate in Kosovo," said Serbian President Vucic during an interview with the private Pink television. Serbia requests deployment of troops Last month, after the war ended, Serbia for the first requested for deployment of military troops in Kosovo after the clashes broke out between Serbs and Kosovo authorities in the northern region, where the former constitute a majority. The resolution of the UN Security Council resolution says that Serbia should be allowed, if KFOR approves, to deploy its military personnel at the Orthodox Christian religious sites, border crossings and areas where Serbs are present in the majority. Vucic slammed KFOR for informing about its decision to the Serbian government on the eve of Orthodox Christmas after an off-duty soldier was arrested by Kosovo police for allegedly shooting and hurting two Serbs, who were aged 11 and 21, in the southern town of Shterpce. Police said that the victims were admitted to the hospital and they did not suffer any life-threatening injuries. The incident was condemned by Kosovo authorities which further escalated tensions. WATCH | Kosovo accuses Serbia of supporting Serbs Thousands of Serbs protest peacefully in Shterpce Thousands of Serbs gathered on Sunday to peacefully protest in Shterpce against what they termed as "violence against Serbs". Head of the Serb List, Kosovo's main Serb party, Goran Rakic, alleged that Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti of making efforts to drive out Serbs. "His goal is to create such conditions so that Serbs leave their homes. My message is that we must not surrender,” Rakic said. As per the Serbian media report, another man was allegedly attacked by Albanians on Saturday. The media in Pristina claimed that a Kosovo bus going, that was travelling via Serbia to Germany, was attacked and rocks were used to break its windscreen on the same day. (With inputs from agencies)

NATO refuses Serbian government’s request to send troops to Kosovo after clashes

Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson on Sunday said that the demands made by Turkiye, which has kept the NATO membership bids of Finland and Sweden blocked for months, cannot be accepted.&nbsp;"Turkiye has confirmed that we have done what we said we would do, but it also says that it wants things that we can't, that we don't want to, give it," said PM Ulf Kristersson, while speaking at a security conference where NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg was also present.&nbsp;

"We are convinced that Turkiye will make a decision, we just don't know when," he stated, further saying that the decision will depend on Turkiye's internal politics along with "Sweden's capacity to show its seriousness".&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkiye-russia-continue-discussion-on-gas-payment-deferral-says-energy-minister-550280">Turkiye, Russia continue discussion on gas payment deferral, says energy minister</a>

The military non-alignment of a decade was broken by Sweden and Finland as they applied for joining NATO, the US-led defence alliance after Russia invaded Ukraine in February.&nbsp;

However, their bids have been blocked by Turkiye which insists that both countries must join Ankara in its fight against banned Kurdish militants.&nbsp;

The major demands of Turkiye involve the participation of Sweden because the nation shares robust relations with the Kurdish diaspora.

WATCH|&nbsp;Turkey pushes for Russia- Ukraine peace talks

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The foreign minister of Finland is not in a hurry to join NATO and is ready to wait for Sweden to get the green light for joining the alliance.

"Finland is not in such a rush to join NATO that we can't wait until Sweden gets the green light," said Pekka Haavisto, while addressing reporters at Sunday's conference.&nbsp;

Turkiye had praised Sweden in late December for giving a response to its security concerns but emphasised that more efforts were needed to win Ankara's support for getting the stalled NATO membership bid sanctioned for Stockholm.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson on Sunday said that the demands made by Turkiye, which has kept the NATO membership bids of Finland and Sweden blocked for months, cannot be accepted.

Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson on Sunday said that the demands made by Turkiye, which has kept the NATO membership bids of Finland and Sweden blocked for months, cannot be accepted. "Turkiye has confirmed that we have done what we said we would do, but it also says that it wants things that we can't, that we don't want to, give it," said PM Ulf Kristersson, while speaking at a security conference where NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg was also present. "We are convinced that Turkiye will make a decision, we just don't know when," he stated, further saying that the decision will depend on Turkiye's internal politics along with "Sweden's capacity to show its seriousness". ALSO READ| Turkiye, Russia continue discussion on gas payment deferral, says energy minister The military non-alignment of a decade was broken by Sweden and Finland as they applied for joining NATO, the US-led defence alliance after Russia invaded Ukraine in February. However, their bids have been blocked by Turkiye which insists that both countries must join Ankara in its fight against banned Kurdish militants. The major demands of Turkiye involve the participation of Sweden because the nation shares robust relations with the Kurdish diaspora. WATCH| Turkey pushes for Russia- Ukraine peace talks The foreign minister of Finland is not in a hurry to join NATO and is ready to wait for Sweden to get the green light for joining the alliance. "Finland is not in such a rush to join NATO that we can't wait until Sweden gets the green light," said Pekka Haavisto, while addressing reporters at Sunday's conference. Turkiye had praised Sweden in late December for giving a response to its security concerns but emphasised that more efforts were needed to win Ankara's support for getting the stalled NATO membership bid sanctioned for Stockholm. (With inputs from agencies)

Sweden cannot accept some demands of Turkiye for NATO membership: PM

Britain said it was committed to leading a NATO task force in 2024, dismissing a report by Berlin that British delays had prompted the German defence ministry to look into extending its leadership beyond 2023.

UK committed to lead a NATO task force in 2024

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg appealed to the member states to provide Ukraine with more weapons, in his interview published by DPA on Friday.

"I call on allies to do more. It is in all our security interests to make sure Ukraine prevails and (Russian President Vladimir) Putin does not win," said Stoltenberg, while speaking to the German news agency.

He emphasised the importance of providing enough ammunition to Ukraine for the systems already in place and added that there was an "enormous" need for spare parts and ammunition.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, last week while speaking to a group of Western leaders, appealed to leaders to provide a wide range of air defence systems and weapons to help the country fight the ongoing invasion by Russia.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russians-to-celebrate-sombre-new-year-amid-ukraine-crisis-547893">Russians to celebrate sombre New Year amid Ukraine crisis</a>

Last week, the United States announced additional military aid amounting to almost $2 billion for Ukraine, which included the Patriot Air Defense System, which provides protection from the cruise, ballistic missiles and aircraft.

Stoltenberg said that providing Ukraine with military support is the fastest way towards establishing peace.

"We know that most wars end at the negotiating table - probably this war too - but we know that what Ukraine can achieve in these negotiations depends inextricably on the military situation," he added.

Ukraine was invaded by Russia on February 24 in what Putin stated was a "special military operation" against what seems to him as a threat to the security of Russians.

WATCH| Russia-Ukraine War: Russian 'kamikaze' drone strikes knocks out power

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russian-kamikaze-drone-strikes-knocks-out-power-541950/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The actions of Russia have been denounced by Ukraine, along with its Western allies, who have called it an act of land grabbing in an imperialist style and sanctions have been imposed against the former to end the military campaign.

Thousands of innocent citizens have lost their lives in the 11-month war, which has also made millions homeless, ruined the cities and badly affected the global economy, bringing incessant inflation in food and energy prices.

(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg appealed to the member states to provide Ukraine with more weapons, in his interview published by DPA on Friday. "I call on allies to do more.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg appealed to the member states to provide Ukraine with more weapons, in his interview published by DPA on Friday. "I call on allies to do more. It is in all our security interests to make sure Ukraine prevails and (Russian President Vladimir) Putin does not win," said Stoltenberg, while speaking to the German news agency. He emphasised the importance of providing enough ammunition to Ukraine for the systems already in place and added that there was an "enormous" need for spare parts and ammunition. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, last week while speaking to a group of Western leaders, appealed to leaders to provide a wide range of air defence systems and weapons to help the country fight the ongoing invasion by Russia. ALSO READ| Russians to celebrate sombre New Year amid Ukraine crisis Last week, the United States announced additional military aid amounting to almost $2 billion for Ukraine, which included the Patriot Air Defense System, which provides protection from the cruise, ballistic missiles and aircraft. Stoltenberg said that providing Ukraine with military support is the fastest way towards establishing peace. "We know that most wars end at the negotiating table - probably this war too - but we know that what Ukraine can achieve in these negotiations depends inextricably on the military situation," he added. Ukraine was invaded by Russia on February 24 in what Putin stated was a "special military operation" against what seems to him as a threat to the security of Russians. WATCH| Russia-Ukraine War: Russian 'kamikaze' drone strikes knocks out power The actions of Russia have been denounced by Ukraine, along with its Western allies, who have called it an act of land grabbing in an imperialist style and sanctions have been imposed against the former to end the military campaign. Thousands of innocent citizens have lost their lives in the 11-month war, which has also made millions homeless, ruined the cities and badly affected the global economy, bringing incessant inflation in food and energy prices. (With inputs from agencies)

NATO's Stoltenberg appeals members to supply more weapons to Ukraine

As the atmospheric pressure plummets in the US,&nbsp;the 'Bomb Cyclone' has become deadly and the weather-related death count has reached&nbsp;31. In other news, with&nbsp;COVID-19 cases&nbsp;rising&nbsp;in China, experts are calling the country a potentially dangerous mutation ground for more variants. While multiple missile hits have been reported in Ukraine on Christmas Day, shots have been fired at NATO patrol in Kosovo. Meanwhile, as the Russia-Ukraine struggle continues, President Vladimir Putin said he is ready to talk. Furthermore, women in Afghanistan continue to protest against the Taliban's decision to ban female students to pursue a university education.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/the-blizzard-of-2022-historic-us-winter-storm-kills-31-including-12-in-new-york-state-546563">'The blizzard of 2022': US winter storm kills 31; Buffalo, battles crisis situation, is 'like a warzone'</a>

<img alt="US Blizzard" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6efdea9b-736f-4539-90d5-8f33954d35be" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/320884-untitled-design-2022-12-26t085747086_0.jpg" />

A devastating winter storm is wreaking havoc in the eastern US leaving millions of Americans fighting a brutal with at least 31 deaths being reported due to the weather conditions. Buffalo, in western New York, is currently being slammed by a blizzard, creating a crisis since emergency services are unable to reach high-impact areas.

"It is (like) going to a warzone, and the vehicles along the sides of the roads are shocking," said New York Governor Kathy Hochul, a native of Buffalo, where eight-foot (2.4-meter) snow drifts and power outages have made for life-threatening conditions.

<a href="www.wionews.com/science/china-a-fertile-breeding-ground-for-a-potentially-dangerous-covid-mutation-experts-546567">China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts</a>

<img alt="Experts call China, breeding ground for COVID mutations" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="31bcd175-f06d-49ac-a174-48173f8f9ed8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/320887-new-wion-52.jpg" />

China's rising number of COVID-19 cases has sparked the worry that the surge might unleash a new mutant variant of the deadly virus into the world.

As per Dr Stuart Campbell Ray, an infectious disease expert at Johns Hopkins University China's large population has limited immunity which "seems to be the setting in which we may see an explosion of a new variant."

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/amid-fresh-tensions-shots-fired-near-nato-patrol-in-kosovo-546559">Amid fresh tensions, shots fired near NATO patrol in Kosovo</a>

<img alt="Shots fired at NATO" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fdf595f5-b43d-4965-acf9-8d557abacb7d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/320881-new-wion-51.jpg" />

Shots were fired in Kosovo near a NATO patrol, said the organisation on Sunday. No injuries have been reported.

As per a Reuters report, no injuries were reported, and the NATO patrol car too escaped unharmed. NATO's KFOR mission did not disclose the location from which the shots were fired. Reportedly the incident happened early Sunday evening after Kosovar forces attempted to dismantle a barricade.

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/missile-hits-reported-from-across-ukraine-on-christmas-day-even-as-putin-says-he-is-open-to-talks-546557">Missile hits reported from across Ukraine on Christmas Day even as Putin says he is open to talks</a>

<img alt="Missile hits reported from across Ukraine on Christmas" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a6e45ed2-7231-4f1e-a602-a77410f3ac50" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/320880-untitled-design-2022-12-26t081206828.jpg" />

Ukrainian and Russian media outlets reported hearing blasts at Russia's Engels air base early Monday, hundreds of kilometres from the frontlines in Ukraine. However, the reports haven't been confirmed yet. The RBC-Ukraine news agency reported that two explosions took place. Russian news outlet Baza cited local residents as saying that air raid sirens followed by an explosion were heard.

Afghan women continue to protest against Taliban's ban on education

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghan-women-continue-to-protest-against-talibans-ban-on-education-546560/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

As the atmospheric pressure plummets in the US, the 'Bomb Cyclone' has become deadly and the weather-related death count has reached 31. In other news, with COVID-19 cases rising in China, experts are calling the country a potentially dangerous mutation ground for more variants.

As the atmospheric pressure plummets in the US, the 'Bomb Cyclone' has become deadly and the weather-related death count has reached 31. In other news, with COVID-19 cases rising in China, experts are calling the country a potentially dangerous mutation ground for more variants. While multiple missile hits have been reported in Ukraine on Christmas Day, shots have been fired at NATO patrol in Kosovo. Meanwhile, as the Russia-Ukraine struggle continues, President Vladimir Putin said he is ready to talk. Furthermore, women in Afghanistan continue to protest against the Taliban's decision to ban female students to pursue a university education. Click on the headlines to read more: 'The blizzard of 2022': US winter storm kills 31; Buffalo, battles crisis situation, is 'like a warzone' A devastating winter storm is wreaking havoc in the eastern US leaving millions of Americans fighting a brutal with at least 31 deaths being reported due to the weather conditions. Buffalo, in western New York, is currently being slammed by a blizzard, creating a crisis since emergency services are unable to reach high-impact areas. "It is (like) going to a warzone, and the vehicles along the sides of the roads are shocking," said New York Governor Kathy Hochul, a native of Buffalo, where eight-foot (2.4-meter) snow drifts and power outages have made for life-threatening conditions. China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts China's rising number of COVID-19 cases has sparked the worry that the surge might unleash a new mutant variant of the deadly virus into the world. As per Dr Stuart Campbell Ray, an infectious disease expert at Johns Hopkins University China's large population has limited immunity which "seems to be the setting in which we may see an explosion of a new variant." Amid fresh tensions, shots fired near NATO patrol in Kosovo Shots were fired in Kosovo near a NATO patrol, said the organisation on Sunday. No injuries have been reported. As per a Reuters report, no injuries were reported, and the NATO patrol car too escaped unharmed. NATO's KFOR mission did not disclose the location from which the shots were fired. Reportedly the incident happened early Sunday evening after Kosovar forces attempted to dismantle a barricade. Missile hits reported from across Ukraine on Christmas Day even as Putin says he is open to talks Ukrainian and Russian media outlets reported hearing blasts at Russia's Engels air base early Monday, hundreds of kilometres from the frontlines in Ukraine. However, the reports haven't been confirmed yet. The RBC-Ukraine news agency reported that two explosions took place. Russian news outlet Baza cited local residents as saying that air raid sirens followed by an explosion were heard. Afghan women continue to protest against Taliban's ban on education

Morning Brief: Deadly blizzard leaves 31 dead in US, shots fired near NATO in Kosovo, and more

We are close to the end of 2022 but it's been 10 months since Russia invaded Ukraine even after witnessing defeat in three Ukrainian cities. Russian President Vladimir Putin is not ready to back, so how far will this go? NATO believes that Russia is all prepared for a long grinding war and warns that the President should not be underestimated.

NATO: Russia's President Putin is planning for long war; Putin meets top military brass

Various parts of the world witnessed the wrath for mother nature. From the drought in the Horn of Africa to one third of Pakistan been inundated by floods, and now the North Atlantic Treaty Organization or NATO is putting its heads together to address the problem of climate change.

WION Climate Change: First - ever climate change and security roundtable of NATO

2022 was a year of conflicts. In February, Russia showed the world how the global order set up after World War 2 was still ineffective to prevent the world from plunging into global military and economic crises. Russia invaded Ukraine, and what came hot on the heels were food and energy shortages. In 2022, every continent &nbsp;saw a rise in intense man-made disasters and conflicts. From Afghanistan to&nbsp;Ethiopia to Armenia, conflicts and humanitarian crises continued to grow larger. As International Committee of the Red Cross President Mirjana Spoljaric says, “There are more than 100 armed conflicts in the world today.”

The international community, largely comprising the US and European countries, pride itself in putting mechanisms in place to check the breakout of clashes and conflicts between countries. But 2022 showed how fragile they are in reality. The world’s largest military alliance, North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), failed to stop Russia from not just intimidating but invading Ukraine. Although Ukraine is a non-NATO &nbsp;country, the security guarantees that the US gave to Ukraine proved to be shallow and meaningless, which further fuelled the Kremlin’s lust for grabbing territories belonging to a sovereign nation.

While NATO did nothing to end the war in Ukraine, &nbsp;it ensured it kept on dragging. It refrained from taking decisive steps but kept pouring in military and economic aid worth billions to prevent an all-out collapse of Kyiv. In some cases, NATO was even accused of fuelling the war in Ukraine. For example, without any evidence, Joe Biden declared in October that Russian leader Vladimir Putin was planning to turn the war in Ukraine into a nuclear Armageddon. This was clearly an unnecessary statement, inviting harsh public scolding from French President Emmanuel Macron who suggested Biden start choosing his words carefully.

In 2022, NATO behaved more like a group of &nbsp;nations and less like the world’s biggest military alliance. It showed on various occasions a lack of unity and conflict of interests. NATO’s response to the China question perfectly epitomises this conundrum. Nations like France and UK, in their sovereign capacities, publicly shamed China on human rights issues and its expansionist ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. But still, NATO has not been able to come up with a muscular approach towards the &nbsp;nation. In June 2022, NATO declared China “a challenge” for the first time. &nbsp;But in September during a meeting between Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, the latter urged China to cooperate on the Russia-Ukraine crisis. Stoltenberg said after the meeting, “I called on China to use its influence on Russia to end its war in Ukraine.”

Speaking of Quad, the group has lost the spotlight since the war broke out in Ukraine. Quad, consisting of four democratic powers India, Japan, the US and Australia, held its heads-of-state level meeting in May, where they failed to condemn the war in Ukraine in unison. Since the war broke out, Quad no longer features on the Biden administration’s priority list. In 2022, Quad failed to play an active role on the global geopolitical landscape, given India’s reluctance to align its foreign policy with the other three members on Russia. In 2023, the group is expected to again grab the spotlight as the democratic world shifts gear to pile pressure on China and raise the issue of Taiwan with the Chinese government.&nbsp;

AUKUS, consisting of Australia, the UK and the US, was planning to provide Canberra &nbsp;with advanced nuclear-powered submarines when it was first launched in September 2021. The larger objective of the initiative was to check China’s hegemony near Australia’s waters in the Pacific. But since the change of administration in Canberra, the AUKUS group seems to have lost steam. In July, Australia’s new defence minister Richard Marles said that “high-tech armaments” were “more important” than “nuclear submarines” for Australia, which raised doubts about the AUKUS deal. As Grant Wyeth wrote in the Diplomat, “at present the agreement looks to be causing more headaches than advantages for Canberra”. So, just like Quad, the AUKUS group is also mired in internal challenges, which caused it to fail in crossing any significant milestone in the year 2022.

As we enter the year 2023, we can only hope that the world powers, responsible for maintaining global peace and order, will behave cautiously and work towards making the world a safer and better place to live in.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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2022 was a year of conflicts. In February, Russia showed the world how the global order set up after World War 2 was still ineffective to prevent the world from plunging into global military and economic crises.

2022 was a year of conflicts. In February, Russia showed the world how the global order set up after World War 2 was still ineffective to prevent the world from plunging into global military and economic crises. Russia invaded Ukraine, and what came hot on the heels were food and energy shortages. In 2022, every continent saw a rise in intense man-made disasters and conflicts. From Afghanistan to Ethiopia to Armenia, conflicts and humanitarian crises continued to grow larger. As International Committee of the Red Cross President Mirjana Spoljaric says, “There are more than 100 armed conflicts in the world today.” The international community, largely comprising the US and European countries, pride itself in putting mechanisms in place to check the breakout of clashes and conflicts between countries. But 2022 showed how fragile they are in reality. The world’s largest military alliance, North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), failed to stop Russia from not just intimidating but invading Ukraine. Although Ukraine is a non-NATO country, the security guarantees that the US gave to Ukraine proved to be shallow and meaningless, which further fuelled the Kremlin’s lust for grabbing territories belonging to a sovereign nation. While NATO did nothing to end the war in Ukraine, it ensured it kept on dragging. It refrained from taking decisive steps but kept pouring in military and economic aid worth billions to prevent an all-out collapse of Kyiv. In some cases, NATO was even accused of fuelling the war in Ukraine. For example, without any evidence, Joe Biden declared in October that Russian leader Vladimir Putin was planning to turn the war in Ukraine into a nuclear Armageddon. This was clearly an unnecessary statement, inviting harsh public scolding from French President Emmanuel Macron who suggested Biden start choosing his words carefully. In 2022, NATO behaved more like a group of nations and less like the world’s biggest military alliance. It showed on various occasions a lack of unity and conflict of interests. NATO’s response to the China question perfectly epitomises this conundrum. Nations like France and UK, in their sovereign capacities, publicly shamed China on human rights issues and its expansionist ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. But still, NATO has not been able to come up with a muscular approach towards the nation. In June 2022, NATO declared China “a challenge” for the first time. But in September during a meeting between Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, the latter urged China to cooperate on the Russia-Ukraine crisis. Stoltenberg said after the meeting, “I called on China to use its influence on Russia to end its war in Ukraine.” Speaking of Quad, the group has lost the spotlight since the war broke out in Ukraine. Quad, consisting of four democratic powers India, Japan, the US and Australia, held its heads-of-state level meeting in May, where they failed to condemn the war in Ukraine in unison. Since the war broke out, Quad no longer features on the Biden administration’s priority list. In 2022, Quad failed to play an active role on the global geopolitical landscape, given India’s reluctance to align its foreign policy with the other three members on Russia. In 2023, the group is expected to again grab the spotlight as the democratic world shifts gear to pile pressure on China and raise the issue of Taiwan with the Chinese government. AUKUS, consisting of Australia, the UK and the US, was planning to provide Canberra with advanced nuclear-powered submarines when it was first launched in September 2021. The larger objective of the initiative was to check China’s hegemony near Australia’s waters in the Pacific. But since the change of administration in Canberra, the AUKUS group seems to have lost steam. In July, Australia’s new defence minister Richard Marles said that “high-tech armaments” were “more important” than “nuclear submarines” for Australia, which raised doubts about the AUKUS deal. As Grant Wyeth wrote in the Diplomat, “at present the agreement looks to be causing more headaches than advantages for Canberra”. So, just like Quad, the AUKUS group is also mired in internal challenges, which caused it to fail in crossing any significant milestone in the year 2022. As we enter the year 2023, we can only hope that the world powers, responsible for maintaining global peace and order, will behave cautiously and work towards making the world a safer and better place to live in. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

How NATO, Quad and AUKUS failed the world in 2022

Russia's foreign ministry said on Wednesday that Sweden and Finland joining NATO could accelerate the militarization of the Arctic region.

Why is Russia warning of increased military tensions in the Arctic?

Weeks after Russia pulled out from Ukraine's Kherson region, Ukrainian military has now said that Russia has also pulled out. This comes as a first official report of a Russian withdrawal from what is now the new frontline of Southern Ukrainian warzone.

War in Ukraine | Lavrov: US, NATO directly involved in war

NATO allies would help Ukraine repair energy infrastructure heavily damaged by Russian bombardments. NATO's chief said that Moscow using the descending winter cold as "a weapon of war".

NATO to boost its support to Ukraine amid Russian strikes

Let us take a look at stories generating interest across WION's social media channels. In today's video we cover China protests, NATO to boost support to Ukraine amid Russian strikes, Chinese astronaut aboard Shenzhou-15 spacecraft in news.

Trending on WION: Only 1 in 3 employees around the world are happy with their salaries, says study

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. As Russian missile strikes continue to damage energy infrastructure across Ukraine, with rising concerns that the winter season will be difficult for the people who are living in war-hit zones. The West has claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin wants "to use winter as a weapon of war" in the ongoing war in Ukraine, which led to massive food and fuel crisis globally. NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Tuesday (November 29) said, "We have to be prepared for more refugees crossing into the rest of Europe." Stoltenberg added that the influx of refugees is because of Russia's "deliberate attack on critical services, heating, light, water, gas" in Ukraine. "Russia is using brutal missile and drone attacks to leave Ukraine cold and dark this winter. President Putin is trying to weaponise winter, to force Ukrainians to freeze or flee," he said. Ahead of a meeting of the alliance's foreign ministers in Bucharest, the NATO chief said that the allies would help Ukraine repair energy infrastructure which has been heavily damaged by bombardments. Stoltenberg also said that NATO allies had pledged more support for Ukraine in order to its infrastructure. He also stated that the West would keep on sending arms and air defences to help it better protect itself. The NATO chief also commented on the of supply the Patriot systems to Ukraine. He said that there was an "ongoing discussion". So far, Washington and others have refused to give Patriot systems to Kyiv. WATCH | Gravitas: Russia weaponising winter? × Stoltenberg said: "NATO is not a party to the war. But we will continue to support Ukraine. For as long as it takes, we will not back down." Dmytro Kuleba, the Ukrainian foreign minister, said the advanced weapons should be delivered to his nation "faster, faster, faster" amid Russian advance. Kuleba, who joined a two-day meeting of NATO foreign ministers in the Romanian capital Bucharest, said: "When we have transformers and generators, we can restore our system, our energy grid, and provide people with decent living conditions." He said: "When we have air defence systems, we will be able to protect this infrastructure from the next Russian missile strikes. In a nutshell, Patriots and transformers is what Ukraine needs the most." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin trying to 'weaponise' winter, NATO urges allies to boost Ukraine aid

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, NATO reaffirmed its commitment to include Ukraine in the 30-member nation alliance, on Tuesday, at the foreign ministers’ meeting in Romania. The potential inclusion of Kyiv in the world’s largest security alliance is one of the reasons that prompted Russia’s invasion of the country earlier this year, said experts.&nbsp;

Prior to the NATO meeting in Bucharest, the alliance’s Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said, “NATO’s door is open.” Furthermore, NATO asserted that Russia cannot stop the alliance’s expansion as more countries continue to join.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, North Macedonia and Montenegro became a part of NATO. Meanwhile, Finland and Sweden have also applied to become a part of the alliance in light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine amid concerns that they might be targeted by Moscow as well.&nbsp;

Stoltenberg said, “Russia does not have a veto” on countries joining NATO. He added, “We stand by that, too, on membership for Ukraine.”&nbsp;However, Kyiv on September 30 applied for an “accelerated accession” to NATO, but given the long process, it might not become a member anytime soon.

“I think what he’s afraid of is democracy and freedom, and that’s the main challenge for him,” said Stoltenberg referring to the Russian president. He added that Putin cannot stop sovereign nations from making “sovereign decisions” that are not a threat to Russia.&nbsp;Earlier this year, Russian President Vladimir Putin had also cited Ukraine’s ambitious bid to join the security alliance as a threat to Moscow’s security.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken was drumming up support for Ukraine as Russia reportedly continues to target Kyiv's energy infrastructure leaving millions to witness the harsh winter. “Russia is using brutal missile and drone attacks to leave Ukraine cold and dark this winter. President Putin is trying to weaponise winter, to force Ukrainians to freeze or flee,” said Stoltenberg.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, NATO reaffirmed its commitment to include Ukraine in the 30-member nation alliance, on Tuesday, at the foreign ministers’ meeting in Romania.

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, NATO reaffirmed its commitment to include Ukraine in the 30-member nation alliance, on Tuesday, at the foreign ministers’ meeting in Romania. The potential inclusion of Kyiv in the world’s largest security alliance is one of the reasons that prompted Russia’s invasion of the country earlier this year, said experts. Prior to the NATO meeting in Bucharest, the alliance’s Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said, “NATO’s door is open.” Furthermore, NATO asserted that Russia cannot stop the alliance’s expansion as more countries continue to join. Earlier this year, North Macedonia and Montenegro became a part of NATO. Meanwhile, Finland and Sweden have also applied to become a part of the alliance in light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine amid concerns that they might be targeted by Moscow as well. Stoltenberg said, “Russia does not have a veto” on countries joining NATO. He added, “We stand by that, too, on membership for Ukraine.” However, Kyiv on September 30 applied for an “accelerated accession” to NATO, but given the long process, it might not become a member anytime soon. “I think what he’s afraid of is democracy and freedom, and that’s the main challenge for him,” said Stoltenberg referring to the Russian president. He added that Putin cannot stop sovereign nations from making “sovereign decisions” that are not a threat to Russia. Earlier this year, Russian President Vladimir Putin had also cited Ukraine’s ambitious bid to join the security alliance as a threat to Moscow’s security. Meanwhile, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken was drumming up support for Ukraine as Russia reportedly continues to target Kyiv's energy infrastructure leaving millions to witness the harsh winter. “Russia is using brutal missile and drone attacks to leave Ukraine cold and dark this winter. President Putin is trying to weaponise winter, to force Ukrainians to freeze or flee,” said Stoltenberg. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Russia does not have a veto’: NATO about membership for Ukraine and others

As Russian missile strikes continue to damage energy infrastructure across Ukraine, with rising concerns that the winter season will be difficult for the people who are living in war-hit zones. The West has claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin wants "to use winter as a weapon of war" in the ongoing war in Ukraine, which led to massive food and fuel crisis globally.

NATO accuses Putin of using cold as 'weapon of war'

NATO is the latest to accuse Russia of weaponising winter. Across Ukraine, civilians struggle to survive winter amidst power cuts.

Gravitas: Russia weaponising winter?

Germany is in talks with allies on Poland's request of sending German air defence units to Ukraine. The remarks come after NATO's Chief suggested that the military alliance might not oppose such a move. However, NATO secretary said that the final decision will be taken by the national government.

Germany says it's in talks with allies, mulls sending air defence units to Ukraine

On Thursday, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced that early next year, his nation's parliament would ratify Finland and Sweden's NATO membership.

As per AFP, after a meeting with regional counterparts in Slovakia, Orban told reporters "As we have already informed Sweden and Finland, Hungary supports the NATO membership of these two countries. It will be on the agenda of the first session of parliament" next year.

Watch |&nbsp;Erdogan renews threat to block Swedish, Finnish NATO bids

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The parliament session in question is scheduled to begin in February next year.

With the exception of Hungary and Turkey, the accession of Sweden and Finland has been approved by all 30 NATO members. New members require unanimous backing.

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"Hungary will surely give its backing to their accession after the government had done, also parliament will do so," said Orban as per Reuters.

Despite the government's insistence that Hungary supports Sweden and Finland's NATO membership, the nation's ruling party has repeatedly put off a parliamentary vote.

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The necessary legislation was presented by the Hungarian government in July, but the two bills have not yet been introduced for discussion and approval in the parliament.

Opposition parties have accused Orban's party of stalling by refusing to put the issue to a vote in parliament, where the Fidesz party holds a two-thirds majority. The socialist party called the move "incomprehensible and unjustified" while the Momentum party condemned the government of "blackmailing" the European Union.

(With inputs from agencies)

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On Thursday, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced that early next year, his nation's parliament would ratify Finland and Sweden's NATO membership. As per AFP, after a meeting with regional counterparts in Slovakia, Orban told reporters "As we have already informed Sweden and Finland, Hungary supports the NATO membership of these two countries.

On Thursday, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced that early next year, his nation's parliament would ratify Finland and Sweden's NATO membership. As per AFP, after a meeting with regional counterparts in Slovakia, Orban told reporters "As we have already informed Sweden and Finland, Hungary supports the NATO membership of these two countries. It will be on the agenda of the first session of parliament" next year. Watch | Erdogan renews threat to block Swedish, Finnish NATO bids The parliament session in question is scheduled to begin in February next year. With the exception of Hungary and Turkey, the accession of Sweden and Finland has been approved by all 30 NATO members. New members require unanimous backing. Also read | European Union fails to agree on gas price cap, members to deliberate again next month "Hungary will surely give its backing to their accession after the government had done, also parliament will do so," said Orban as per Reuters. Despite the government's insistence that Hungary supports Sweden and Finland's NATO membership, the nation's ruling party has repeatedly put off a parliamentary vote. Also read | Day after Russian strikes, Ukrainian nuclear plants reconnect to electricity grid The necessary legislation was presented by the Hungarian government in July, but the two bills have not yet been introduced for discussion and approval in the parliament. Opposition parties have accused Orban's party of stalling by refusing to put the issue to a vote in parliament, where the Fidesz party holds a two-thirds majority. The socialist party called the move "incomprehensible and unjustified" while the Momentum party condemned the government of "blackmailing" the European Union. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PM Victor Orban says Hungary will back Finland and Sweden's NATO bid next year

When asked about Polish requests for Germany to provide Patriot units to Kyiv, NATO's secretary-general said on Friday that the choice to send Patriot air defence units to Ukraine is up to the individual countries.&nbsp;

After a stray missile landed and killed two people in Poland last week, Berlin offered Warsaw the Patriot system to assist defend its airspace, but Polish defence minister Mariusz Blaszczak then requested Germany to transfer the fire units to Ukraine in its place.&nbsp;

German minister of defence Christine Lambrecht rebuffed this demand on Thursday.&nbsp;

She claimed that Germany's Patriot units were only meant to be used on NATO soil and that doing so would require prior consultation with the alliance and its partners.

However, Jens Stoltenberg, the secretary-general of NATO, indicated a national choice.&nbsp;

He told reporters in Brussels that "the specific decisions on specific systems are national decisions".&nbsp;

"Sometimes there are end user&nbsp;agreements and other things so they need to consult with other allies. But at the end of the day, it (the decision) has to be taken by the national governments," he&nbsp;added.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coming-soon-gold-grey-and-blue-checks-on-twitter-as-musk-announces-launch-of-verified-feature-next-week-537370">Coming soon, gold, grey and blue checks on Twitter, Musk to launch 'Verified' feature next week</a>

Raytheon, a US-based firm, manufactures Patriot.

When asked if NATO ran the risk of getting involved in the conflict by sending Patriot units to Ukraine, Stoltenberg responded that the allies had already given Kyiv cutting-edge weapons without bringing NATO forces along.&nbsp;

"The way this has been done is that when there is a need for specialists to operate these systems, be it air defence systems or other advanced artillery systems, the Ukrainians have received training in a NATO country," he said.

(with inputs from agencies)

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When asked about Polish requests for Germany to provide Patriot units to Kyiv, NATO's secretary-general said on Friday that the choice to send Patriot air defence units to Ukraine is up to the individual countries.

When asked about Polish requests for Germany to provide Patriot units to Kyiv, NATO's secretary-general said on Friday that the choice to send Patriot air defence units to Ukraine is up to the individual countries. After a stray missile landed and killed two people in Poland last week, Berlin offered Warsaw the Patriot system to assist defend its airspace, but Polish defence minister Mariusz Blaszczak then requested Germany to transfer the fire units to Ukraine in its place. German minister of defence Christine Lambrecht rebuffed this demand on Thursday. She claimed that Germany's Patriot units were only meant to be used on NATO soil and that doing so would require prior consultation with the alliance and its partners. However, Jens Stoltenberg, the secretary-general of NATO, indicated a national choice. He told reporters in Brussels that "the specific decisions on specific systems are national decisions". "Sometimes there are end user agreements and other things so they need to consult with other allies. But at the end of the day, it (the decision) has to be taken by the national governments," he added. Also Read: Coming soon, gold, grey and blue checks on Twitter, Musk to launch 'Verified' feature next week Raytheon, a US-based firm, manufactures Patriot. When asked if NATO ran the risk of getting involved in the conflict by sending Patriot units to Ukraine, Stoltenberg responded that the allies had already given Kyiv cutting-edge weapons without bringing NATO forces along. "The way this has been done is that when there is a need for specialists to operate these systems, be it air defence systems or other advanced artillery systems, the Ukrainians have received training in a NATO country," he said. (with inputs from agencies)

Decision over passing on Patriot air defence to Kyiv lies with nations: NATO chief

The ongoing crisis in Europe could have escalated to probably a full-scale war after a missile landed on Poland—a NATO ally—on Wednesday. But it didn't happen and the flames were doused when the Western allies admitted that the missile came from Ukraine, not Russia.

The ongoing crisis in Europe could have escalated to probably a full-scale war after a missile landed on Poland—a NATO ally—on Wednesday. But it didn't happen and the flames were doused when the Western allies admitted that the missile came from Ukraine, not Russia. After reports emerged of the missile incident that killed two people, NATO ambassadors held an emergency meeting. Concerns were raised with rumours over the Western alliance's mutual defence mechanism, known as Article 5. Before Article 5 invocation, there is Article 4. After the missile incident, Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said Poland was still analysing the possibility of launching an Article 4 procedure. ALSO READ | Kremlin: Kyiv shifting goalposts, demand for ‘public’ negotiations shows it’s not inclined for talks In case of a security threat, Article 4 acts as a formal call for consultations among members of the alliance. But he added that it seemed it may not be necessary. If Article 4 is invoked, it means the NATO members will consult together in context with any threat to the territory of any of them. Apart from that, it also addresses the political independence and security of the members. Under Article 4, discussions at the North Atlantic Council, which is NATO's main political decision-making body, could potentially lead to some form of joint action. ALSO READ | Russia targets Ukraine's critical infrastructure, missile factory in fresh missile strikes Then comes Article 5. If NATO members find conclusive evidence under the Article 4 discussions, the focus would then shift to Article 5. It is the cornerstone of NATO's founding treaty. In 1949, the alliance was created and the charter in it stated that "the Parties agree that an armed attack against one or more of them in Europe or North America shall be considered an attack against them all." They agreed that action, as it deems necessary, would be taken, including the use of armed force. Experts say that Article 5 is probably the most important part of the treaty as it basically decides whether or not a situation can evolve into a full-scale war. The last time Article 5 was invoked was after the 9/11 attacks Article 5 has been invoked only once in NATO history. It happened after the September 11 attacks on the United States in 2001 when NATO confirmed the invocation and determined that the attacks were indeed eligible under the terms of the North Atlantic Treaty. NATO's eight official responses to the 9/11 attacks included Operation Eagle Assist and Operation Active Endeavour, a naval operation in the Mediterranean designed to prevent the movement of terrorists or weapons of mass destruction, as well as to improve shipping security in general. The other incidents when Article 5 was almost invoked June 2012: Turkish F-4 Phantom shooting down by Syria August 2012: Tomb of Suleyman Shah threat and events during the Syrian Civil War WATCH | Gravitas | Poland missile strike: Allies dispute Ukraine's claims × You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

What happened when NATO's Article 5 was invoked last time?

United States President Joe Biden told other NATO members present at the G20 Summit in Indonesia that the missile that killed two people in Poland was an air defence missile from Ukraine, according to a NATO source. Reuters reported that Biden was informed by his sources about the missile and that is why he publicly said that it is unlikely that the missile was launched by Russia.

"There is preliminary information that contests that. I don't want to say that until we completely investigate it, but it is unlikely in the lines of the trajectory that it was fired from Russia, but we’ll see," Biden said when asked about the attack in Poland, according to Associated Press.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-live-updates-missile-strikes-rattle-poland-un-calls-for-peace-amidst-fear-of-escalation-534593" hreflang="en">Russia-Ukraine LIVE | West closer to world war: Medvedev on missile incident</a>

The missile that landed near the Poland-Ukraine border sparked tensions about a potential escalation in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict as any perceived attack on a NATO member will result in a response from the alliance. Following the missile attack, NATO ambassadors held an emergency meeting to discuss the road ahead but decided to not go ahead with an armed response.

On Wednesday, a missile landed in Poland as Russia targeted Ukraine's Volyn region (25-30 km away from the Polish border). The Ukrainian authorities said that most missiles were shot down by their defence systems and the S-300 air defence missile in Poland can be part of their weapons arsenal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/todays-era-must-not-be-of-war-g20-declaration-condemns-conflict-in-ukraine-534710">G20 declaration condemns conflict in Ukraine</a>

Russia completely denied any involvement in the incident and said that the allegations were "baseless statements". Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that Russia was conducting routine military attacks, but the S-300 air defence system was responsible for the incident in Poland.

(With inputs from agencies)

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United States President Joe Biden told other NATO members present at the G20 Summit in Indonesia that the missile that killed two people in Poland was an air defence missile from Ukraine, according to a NATO source.

United States President Joe Biden told other NATO members present at the G20 Summit in Indonesia that the missile that killed two people in Poland was an air defence missile from Ukraine, according to a NATO source. Reuters reported that Biden was informed by his sources about the missile and that is why he publicly said that it is unlikely that the missile was launched by Russia. "There is preliminary information that contests that. I don't want to say that until we completely investigate it, but it is unlikely in the lines of the trajectory that it was fired from Russia, but we’ll see," Biden said when asked about the attack in Poland, according to Associated Press. Also read | Russia-Ukraine LIVE | West closer to world war: Medvedev on missile incident The missile that landed near the Poland-Ukraine border sparked tensions about a potential escalation in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict as any perceived attack on a NATO member will result in a response from the alliance. Following the missile attack, NATO ambassadors held an emergency meeting to discuss the road ahead but decided to not go ahead with an armed response. On Wednesday, a missile landed in Poland as Russia targeted Ukraine's Volyn region (25-30 km away from the Polish border). The Ukrainian authorities said that most missiles were shot down by their defence systems and the S-300 air defence missile in Poland can be part of their weapons arsenal. Also read | G20 declaration condemns conflict in Ukraine Russia completely denied any involvement in the incident and said that the allegations were "baseless statements". Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that Russia was conducting routine military attacks, but the S-300 air defence system was responsible for the incident in Poland. (With inputs from agencies)

Joe Biden told NATO that Ukraine air defence missile landed in Poland: Report

NATO says the missile that landed in Poland was a misfire from Ukraine, not Russia. The blast killed two people in Poland. Didn't NATO spot the incoming missile? What happened to its air defence? Listen in to Priyanka Sharma.

Gravitas | Poland missile strike: What happened to NATO's air defence system?

NATO held an emergency meeting to investigate whether Ukraine or Russia was responsible for the missile strike in Poland. NATO chief has said the missile was fired by Ukraine, but it is not at fault, as Russia bears the ultimate responsibility.

Poland missile strike: NATO and Poland say missile likely Ukrainian

France is reportedly planning its biggest-ever military exercise.&nbsp;As per an AFP report, it will involve 12,000 troops, including NATO allies Germany, Britain, Belgium, Italy and Spain, along with the United States and will happen in the first half of next year.

The wargames are called Orion and come against the background of the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war. As per a senior French official, they are justified because of the geopolitical context.

"The geopolitical context justifies this exercise," said Yves Metayer, commander of the troop deployment division at the French chiefs of staff.&nbsp;

He added that the scenario plans for a major confrontation with an unspecified foreign state and that the plan had been in development since 2020 and was a culmination of a French strategic review that was released in 2017.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-addresses-g19-leaders-tells-them-now-is-the-time-to-end-russias-war-534498" hreflang="en">Zelensky addresses 'G19' leaders, tells them 'now is the time' to end Russia's war</a>

Metayer said that the review indicated that preparation for a major conflict was required, given the two decades of "mostly asymmetrical warfare with non-state actors" like Jihadists.&nbsp;

Orion will include components for the land, sea, air, and space as well as cyber warfare— along with civilian operations such as transportation and medical services during conflicts.

The first phase will act as a simulation of an intervention in a nation that is being torn apart by militia activity and is a neighbour to a nuclear-armed superpower.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-fresh-russian-attacks-cause-power-cuts-in-several-regions-534476" hreflang="en">Ukraine: Fresh Russian attacks cause power cuts in several regions&nbsp;</a>

In it, 7,000 soldiers will take part in a sequence featuring naval operations in the Mediterranean and an amphibian and airlift operation. This will reportedly take place in southern France between late February and early May.

The second phase from mid-April to early May will be a simulation of air and land conflict with the aforementioned nuclear superpower and would deploy 12,000 troops in Northern France.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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France is reportedly planning its biggest-ever military exercise. As per an AFP report, it will involve 12,000 troops, including NATO allies Germany, Britain, Belgium, Italy and Spain, along with the United States and will happen in the first half of next year.

France is reportedly planning its biggest-ever military exercise. As per an AFP report, it will involve 12,000 troops, including NATO allies Germany, Britain, Belgium, Italy and Spain, along with the United States and will happen in the first half of next year. The wargames are called Orion and come against the background of the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war. As per a senior French official, they are justified because of the geopolitical context. "The geopolitical context justifies this exercise," said Yves Metayer, commander of the troop deployment division at the French chiefs of staff. He added that the scenario plans for a major confrontation with an unspecified foreign state and that the plan had been in development since 2020 and was a culmination of a French strategic review that was released in 2017. Also read | Zelensky addresses 'G19' leaders, tells them 'now is the time' to end Russia's war Metayer said that the review indicated that preparation for a major conflict was required, given the two decades of "mostly asymmetrical warfare with non-state actors" like Jihadists. Orion will include components for the land, sea, air, and space as well as cyber warfare— along with civilian operations such as transportation and medical services during conflicts. The first phase will act as a simulation of an intervention in a nation that is being torn apart by militia activity and is a neighbour to a nuclear-armed superpower. Also read | Ukraine: Fresh Russian attacks cause power cuts in several regions In it, 7,000 soldiers will take part in a sequence featuring naval operations in the Mediterranean and an amphibian and airlift operation. This will reportedly take place in southern France between late February and early May. The second phase from mid-April to early May will be a simulation of air and land conflict with the aforementioned nuclear superpower and would deploy 12,000 troops in Northern France. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

In 2023, France to hold its biggest-ever war exercise ‘Orion ’ with NATO countries

WION Fineprint | NATO chief: Ukraine not at fault for missile strike in Poland

A day after the G20 meet leaders agreed that 'today's era must not be of war', a Russian-made missile hit a village in Poland. At least two Polish citizens have been killed in the incident, late on Tuesday, the missiles landed in the Southeastern village, which is just 6.4 km away from the Ukrainian border.

WION Dispatch | Poland missile strike: NATO says blast likely by Ukrainian missile

A day after the G20 meeting leaders agreed that 'today's era must not be of war', a Russian-made missile hit a village in Poland. At least two Polish citizens have been killed in the incident, late on Tuesday, the missiles landed in the Southeastern village, which is just 6.4 km away from the Ukrainian border. Now, NATO Chief addressed the media on the whole matter.

NATO briefing on Missile strike in Poland: 'Will remain calm and vigilant'

A day after G20 meet leaders agreed that 'today's era must not be of war', Russian-made missile has hit a village in Poland. At least two Polish citizens have been killed in the incident, late on Tuesday, the missiles landed in the South eastern village, which is just 6.4 kms away from the Ukrainian border. Now, NATO Chief addressed media on the whole matter.

NATO Chief addresses media after missile hits Poland: 'This is not Ukraine's fault'

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg says that it will be a mistake to underestimate Russia, adding that Putin's aim is to leave Ukraine cold and dark this winter.

Gravitas: NATO chief says Putin's aim is to leave Ukraine cold and dark this winter

Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the European Union has put forward two action plans to bolster cyber defence. An EU official said that the Russia cyber attacks on EU countries and their partners were a 'wake-up call'.

EU, NATO plan to bolster cyber defence among allied nations

While waiting to see how Russia's retreat from Kherson plays&nbsp;out, NATO leader Jens Stoltenberg said on Thursday that if confirmed, it would be "another victory" for Ukraine.&nbsp;"We have to see how the situation on the ground develops in the coming days. But what is clear is that Russia is under heavy pressure and if they leave Kherson, it would be another victory for Ukraine," he said in Rome.

A day after Russian troops received a withdrawal order from the city, Ukraine announced on Thursday that its forces regained a dozen villages in the southern Kherson area.

"We have seen how the Ukrainian armed forces have been able to push back Russian forces and liberate territory," said Stoltenberg, adding,&nbsp;"These gains belong to the brave courageous soldiers of Ukraine."&nbsp;

"At the same time, the unprecedented support that NATO allies, including Italy, have provided is making a difference on the battlefield every day and remains vital for the Ukrainian progress."

Giorgia Meloni, the new Italian prime minister who took office late last month, was the subject of Stoltenberg's remarks following their initial in-person meetings.&nbsp;

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Despite the fact that she herself has often emphasised her support for Ukraine and for sanctions against Russia, her cabinet includes a large number of supporters of Moscow.&nbsp;

Working to deepen the alliance and make it "even more capable of responding to threats coming from all directions" was one of Meloni's stated priorities.

"The alliance is indispensable for security and the prosperity of our countries," she told reporters.

(with inputs from agencies) 
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While waiting to see how Russia's retreat from Kherson plays out, NATO leader Jens Stoltenberg said on Thursday that if confirmed, it would be "another victory" for Ukraine.

While waiting to see how Russia's retreat from Kherson plays out, NATO leader Jens Stoltenberg said on Thursday that if confirmed, it would be "another victory" for Ukraine. "We have to see how the situation on the ground develops in the coming days. But what is clear is that Russia is under heavy pressure and if they leave Kherson, it would be another victory for Ukraine," he said in Rome. A day after Russian troops received a withdrawal order from the city, Ukraine announced on Thursday that its forces regained a dozen villages in the southern Kherson area. "We have seen how the Ukrainian armed forces have been able to push back Russian forces and liberate territory," said Stoltenberg, adding, "These gains belong to the brave courageous soldiers of Ukraine." "At the same time, the unprecedented support that NATO allies, including Italy, have provided is making a difference on the battlefield every day and remains vital for the Ukrainian progress." Giorgia Meloni, the new Italian prime minister who took office late last month, was the subject of Stoltenberg's remarks following their initial in-person meetings. Also Read: United States: Five most expensive midterm elections Despite the fact that she herself has often emphasised her support for Ukraine and for sanctions against Russia, her cabinet includes a large number of supporters of Moscow. Working to deepen the alliance and make it "even more capable of responding to threats coming from all directions" was one of Meloni's stated priorities. "The alliance is indispensable for security and the prosperity of our countries," she told reporters. (with inputs from agencies)

Russia's withdrawal from Kherson 'another victory for Ukraine': NATO chief

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