NATO is looking very keenly on its Eastern flank. NATO's Eastern flank is a part of the alliance's air shielding mission. The lineup of aircrafts includes Italian Euro fighters, Polish F-16s, Polish MiG-29s and US F-22 fighter jets.

NATO strengthens its Eastern flank as it holds joint air exercises over Poland

UK holds air drills over Scotland; jets shoot down 53 target drones

North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday (October 13) struck a defiant note&nbsp;as he said that the alliance will not be intimidated by Russia's nuclear threats.

"We will not be intimidated," he said "Russia's nuclear rhetoric is dangerous, reckless, and they know that if they use (a) nuclear weapon against Ukraine, it will have severe consequences."

Stoltenberg was speaking with reporters after two-day meeting of the alliance's defence ministers. The meet was NATO's first large gathering since Russia declared annexation of several Ukrainian regions.&nbsp;

Watch | Ukraine PM: Ukraine receives additional emergency aid from IMF

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Russia's nuclear threats have been classified by NATO as a clear escalation of the war. Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24.

After sustained gains in first few months of the war, Russian forces have had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensive. It is because of this there are fears that Russian President Vladmir Putin would follow through on his threat of using a nuclear weapon.

Stoltenberg said NATO would monitor Russia's annual nuclear drills very closely, as it has done for decades, and remain vigilant "not least in light of the veiled nuclear threats and the dangerous rhetoric we have seen from the Russian side".

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-offers-to-redirect-nord-stream-gas-flows-through-hub-in-turkiye-525126">Vladimir Putin offers to redirect Nord Stream gas flows through 'hub' in Türkiye</a>

The NATO chief was apparently referring to Russia's annual Grom exercise that normally takes place in late October and in which Russia tests its nuclear-capable bombers, submarines and missiles.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday (October 13) struck a defiant note as he said that the alliance will not be intimidated by Russia's nuclear threats.

North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday (October 13) struck a defiant note as he said that the alliance will not be intimidated by Russia's nuclear threats. "We will not be intimidated," he said "Russia's nuclear rhetoric is dangerous, reckless, and they know that if they use (a) nuclear weapon against Ukraine, it will have severe consequences." Stoltenberg was speaking with reporters after two-day meeting of the alliance's defence ministers. The meet was NATO's first large gathering since Russia declared annexation of several Ukrainian regions. Watch | Ukraine PM: Ukraine receives additional emergency aid from IMF × Russia's nuclear threats have been classified by NATO as a clear escalation of the war. Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24. After sustained gains in first few months of the war, Russian forces have had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensive. It is because of this there are fears that Russian President Vladmir Putin would follow through on his threat of using a nuclear weapon. Stoltenberg said NATO would monitor Russia's annual nuclear drills very closely, as it has done for decades, and remain vigilant "not least in light of the veiled nuclear threats and the dangerous rhetoric we have seen from the Russian side". Also Read | Vladimir Putin offers to redirect Nord Stream gas flows through 'hub' in Türkiye The NATO chief was apparently referring to Russia's annual Grom exercise that normally takes place in late October and in which Russia tests its nuclear-capable bombers, submarines and missiles. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

NATO is not intimidated by Russian nuclear threats, says secretary-general

Britain on Wednesday joined the list of countries to have come forward in the last few days and pledged to donate air defence systems to Ukraine in the wake of incessant Russian missile attacks.

Britain on Wednesday joined the list of countries to have come forward in the last few days and pledged to donate air defence systems to Ukraine in the wake of incessant Russian missile attacks. Reportedly, British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace informed about the decision saying the UK will provide Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) to Kyiv, ahead of a key NATO meeting scheduled to take place today. "Russia's latest indiscriminate strikes on civilian areas in Ukraine warrant further support to those seeking to defend their nation. So today I have authorised the supply of AMRAAM anti-aircraft missiles to Ukraine." Read more: US, Germany promise to rush air defence systems to Ukraine as Russia pounds missiles Wallace said that the defence equipment will be delivered in the coming weeks and that AMRAAM can be used with the NASAMS air defence systems, reportedly, pledged by the United States. He added that other air defence missiles alongside aerial drones and a further 18 howitzer artillery guns will be sent. As reported extensively by WION, Russia has pounded Ukrainian cities with countless missiles in the aftermath of the Kerch bridge explosion. Russian President Vladimir Putin has threatened 'severe' attacks on Ukraine if the 'terrorist' activities don't cease. "Let there be no doubt," Putin said, "if attempts at terrorist attacks continue, the response from Russia will be severe." Read more: Putin warns of more 'severe' attacks as Russian missiles pound Ukraine With Ukraine caught in a tough spot, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has pleaded with the West to provide arms and ammunition, especially the air defence systems. So far, the US, France, and Germany have pledged to deliver the systems. On Wednesday, Germany's Defence Minister Christine Lambrecht said it had sent the first of four IRIS-T air defence systems to Kyiv. Read more: France to deliver air-defence systems to Ukraine in the coming weeks: Macron However, Ukraine needs the deliveries on a much more urgent basis. Since Monday, the Russian air attacks have killed 26 people while more than 100 have been injured. Cities and towns across the country have plunged into darkness as power supplies have been hit. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK will send air defence missiles to Kyiv, announces defence secretary ahead of NATO meet

It's been 230 days since the war in Ukraine started. Russia is raining missiles, Ukraine is stepping up its defences. NATO plans to provide air defence systems to Kyiv, this includes a system used at the White House. Priyanka Sharma reports.

Gravitas: Ukraine to get air defence system used at the White House

NATO allies on Wednesday pledged to provide a new air defence system to Ukraine, a day after President Volodymyr Zelensky made an impassioned appeal to the western allies for military support to help ward off Russian forces.

During a meeting of 50 countries at the headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, the western allies recommitted to provide further military assistance to Kyiv, which is facing a barrage of Russian missiles in the aftermath of the Kerch bridge explosion.

“The whole world has just seen yet again the malice and cruelty of Putin's war of choice, rooted in aggression and waged with deep contempt for the rules of war," US defence secretary Lloyd Austin told the gathering, sitting next to Ukrainian defence&nbsp;minister Oleksii Reznikov.

"But Russia's latest assaults have only deepened the determination of the Ukrainian people and further united countries of goodwill from every region on Earth," he added.

Germany said that it has sent the first of four IRIS-T air defence systems to Kyiv, with the country’s defence minister Christine Lambrecht calling it a "very important support for Ukraine in the fight against missile attacks".

Reuters reported that a senior NATO official warned of a “physical response” from NATO should Russia use&nbsp;nuclear weapons.

The official, however, did not detail what sort of physical response it might entail.

Earlier on Tuesday, while addressing the G7 leaders virtually, Zelensky urged the allies to help his country establish an “air shield” against aerial attacks.

“When Ukraine receives a sufficient number of modern and effective air defence systems, the key element of Russian terror – missile strikes – will cease to work,” he told leaders of the G7 nations Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States.

On Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin intensified attacks on Ukraine, launching missile strikes across various cities in Ukraine, in response to the attack on the Kerch Bridge, which connects the Russian mainland to the annexed Crimean Peninsula.

(With inputs from agencies)

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NATO allies on Wednesday pledged to provide a new air defence system to Ukraine, a day after President Volodymyr Zelensky made an impassioned appeal to the western allies for military support to help ward off Russian forces.

NATO allies on Wednesday pledged to provide a new air defence system to Ukraine, a day after President Volodymyr Zelensky made an impassioned appeal to the western allies for military support to help ward off Russian forces. During a meeting of 50 countries at the headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, the western allies recommitted to provide further military assistance to Kyiv, which is facing a barrage of Russian missiles in the aftermath of the Kerch bridge explosion. “The whole world has just seen yet again the malice and cruelty of Putin's war of choice, rooted in aggression and waged with deep contempt for the rules of war," US defence secretary Lloyd Austin told the gathering, sitting next to Ukrainian defence minister Oleksii Reznikov. "But Russia's latest assaults have only deepened the determination of the Ukrainian people and further united countries of goodwill from every region on Earth," he added. Germany said that it has sent the first of four IRIS-T air defence systems to Kyiv, with the country’s defence minister Christine Lambrecht calling it a "very important support for Ukraine in the fight against missile attacks". Reuters reported that a senior NATO official warned of a “physical response” from NATO should Russia use nuclear weapons. The official, however, did not detail what sort of physical response it might entail. Earlier on Tuesday, while addressing the G7 leaders virtually, Zelensky urged the allies to help his country establish an “air shield” against aerial attacks. “When Ukraine receives a sufficient number of modern and effective air defence systems, the key element of Russian terror – missile strikes – will cease to work,” he told leaders of the G7 nations Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States. On Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin intensified attacks on Ukraine, launching missile strikes across various cities in Ukraine, in response to the attack on the Kerch Bridge, which connects the Russian mainland to the annexed Crimean Peninsula. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

NATO pledges to provide air defence system to Ukraine pounded by Russian missiles

Anti-NATO protests have gripped France as the country grapples with a cost-of-living crisis. The protests come amid a strike by union workers at France's petroleum refineries. Molly Gambhir tells you how Emmanuel Macron faces a double challenge.

Gravitas: Anti-NATO protests erupt in Paris

After the Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines were rocked by explosions, the stakeholders launched a probe. While the majority have pointed fingers at Russia for self-sabotage - Gazprom, which maintains the pipeline has dropped a bombshell.

After the Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines were rocked by explosions, the stakeholders launched a probe. While the majority have pointed fingers at Russia for self-sabotage - Gazprom, which maintains the pipeline has dropped a bombshell. Reportedly, the Russian energy major on Monday said that nearly seven years ago, a mine destroyer was discovered at the Nord Stream 1 pipeline, belonging to North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Sergei Kupriyanovm, the Gazprom spokesperson told the Russian state media that "munitions object" which was fished from a depth of 40 metres was cleared by the Swedish Armed Forces without providing much detail about its discovery at a suspicious location "Gas transportation, halted because of the incident, was restored," added Sergei. The Nord Stream website has an official account of the incident where it details that the pipeline was halted briefly before the Swedish forces carried the munitions away. "The piece of munitions was found in close proximity to the Nord Stream Line 2 on November 6, 2015 during routine survey operations as part of annual integrity assessment activities of the Nord Stream offshore pipeline system," read the statement. "The location of the object was in the Swedish Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) approximately 120 km away from the island of Gotland. The relevant Swedish Authorities were informed and stayed in a direct contact with Nord Stream until the object was successfully cleared," it added Read more: Kremlin wants to be part of investigation into underwater explosions, Nord Stream leaks Attacks were pre-mediated: West As reported extensively by WION, the two explosions on the Nord Stream pipelines were followed by unexplained gas leaks. The suspicious incidents were reported in the Baltic Sea off the Danish island of Bornholm. According to Danish-Swedish investigation findings, the four breaches impacting the Nord Stream gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea were brought on by underwater explosions equivalent to hundreds of kilogrammes of explosives. Germany, Denmark, and Sweden have claimed that those were pre-meditated attacks to destroy the pipeline. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has called it a ploy by the West after its sanctions did not affect Moscow. While the supply of natural gas through the pipelines remains halted, the leaks have been plugged. Nord Stream 2 was repaired on October 1 followed by Nord Stream 1 on October 3. "The larger leak is now no longer visible on the surface while the smaller one instead has increased slightly," the Swedish coast guard said in a statement regarding Nord Stream 1. Read more: Gas leak from Nord Stream 1 has stopped, says Swedish Coast Guard (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

NATO mine destroyer was discovered at Nord Stream 1 in 2015, says Gazprom

If reports are to be believed, Poland has discussed the idea of sharing nuclear weapons with its&nbsp;North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) ally the United States.&nbsp;

According to a Bloomberg report, Poland&nbsp;President Andrzej Duda talked to the United States and discussed the idea of housing weapons of mass destruction. Duda's comments came amid the continuing&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war and nuclear sabre-rattling by Russian President Vladimir Putin and his allies

“There is always a potential opportunity to participate in the nuclear sharing programme,” local media reports cited&nbsp;Duda as saying.&nbsp;

“We have spoken with American leaders about whether the United States is considering such a possibility. The issue is open," he added.&nbsp;

White House unaware of the conversation

While Duda claims he talked to Washington, the White House officials, per the Bloomberg report were unaware of such an issue being raised.&nbsp;

Both US and NATO continue to maintain that they will not deploy nuclear weapons in countries that have joined the powerful security alliance after the fall of communism.&nbsp;

Poland is a full member of NATO since 1999. The security alliance has a concept called 'Nuclear Sharing Arrangement'&nbsp;which acts as a deterrent for enemy states. Under the policy,&nbsp;countries that do not have their own nuclear weapons host those from others that do.

Currently, US, France and the UK are the three countries within NATO that have nuclear weapons in their arsenal. Out of the three, only US takes part in the nuclear weapons sharing programme.&nbsp;

Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Turkey are the only NATO allies that host the US nuclear weapons on their territories.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-did-nato-push-ukraine-into-war-459651">WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Did NATO push Ukraine into war?</a>

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Why is Poland after the deal?

The development comes a couple of days after footage of Russia transporting equipment for its supposed nuclear weapons programme went viral on social media platforms.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The footage of the convoy, shot at an undisclosed location in central Russia and carried by several Western news outlets shows a locomotive, linked to the 12th main directorate of the Russian ministry of defence carrying upgraded armoured personnel carriers and other equipment while heading towards the front line of the battlefield.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/footage-shows-russias-nuclear-armageddon-convoy-on-the-move-report-522366">Read more:&nbsp;Footage shows Russia's nuclear 'armageddon' convoy on the move: Report</a>

The nuclear threat of Russia

Multiple reports have claimed that President Vladimir Putin may be attempting to send a message to the West by conducting a nuclear test, amid the Ukraine war.&nbsp;

As reported by WION, NATO has already warned its members that Putin may have deployed Poseidon, a nuclear weapon that is also known as the "weapon of the Apocalypse".

NATO issued the warning note over the weekend which was leaked to Italian media. As per the note, the doomsday weapon is on its way from its base in the Arctic circle to the Kara Sea.

Meanwhile, Ramzan&nbsp;Kadyrov, head of&nbsp;Russia's region of Chechnya has urged Moscow to consider using a&nbsp;low-yield&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;weapon&nbsp;in Ukraine.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chechen-leader-kadyrov-russia-should-use-low-yield-nuclear-weapon-after-new-defeat-in-ukraine-521614">Read more:&nbsp;Chechen leader Kadyrov: Russia should use low-yield nuclear weapon after new defeat in Ukraine</a>

"In my personal opinion, more drastic measures&nbsp;should&nbsp;be taken, right up to the declaration of martial law in the border areas and the&nbsp;use&nbsp;of&nbsp;low-yield&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;weapons,"&nbsp;Kadyrov wrote on Telegram.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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If reports are to be believed, Poland has discussed the idea of sharing nuclear weapons with its North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) ally the United States.

If reports are to be believed, Poland has discussed the idea of sharing nuclear weapons with its North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) ally the United States. According to a Bloomberg report, Poland President Andrzej Duda talked to the United States and discussed the idea of housing weapons of mass destruction. Duda's comments came amid the continuing Russia-Ukraine war and nuclear sabre-rattling by Russian President Vladimir Putin and his allies “There is always a potential opportunity to participate in the nuclear sharing programme,” local media reports cited Duda as saying. “We have spoken with American leaders about whether the United States is considering such a possibility. The issue is open," he added. White House unaware of the conversation While Duda claims he talked to Washington, the White House officials, per the Bloomberg report were unaware of such an issue being raised. Both US and NATO continue to maintain that they will not deploy nuclear weapons in countries that have joined the powerful security alliance after the fall of communism. Poland is a full member of NATO since 1999. The security alliance has a concept called 'Nuclear Sharing Arrangement' which acts as a deterrent for enemy states. Under the policy, countries that do not have their own nuclear weapons host those from others that do. Currently, US, France and the UK are the three countries within NATO that have nuclear weapons in their arsenal. Out of the three, only US takes part in the nuclear weapons sharing programme. Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Turkey are the only NATO allies that host the US nuclear weapons on their territories. WATCH | Gravitas Plus: Did NATO push Ukraine into war? × Why is Poland after the deal? The development comes a couple of days after footage of Russia transporting equipment for its supposed nuclear weapons programme went viral on social media platforms. The footage of the convoy, shot at an undisclosed location in central Russia and carried by several Western news outlets shows a locomotive, linked to the 12th main directorate of the Russian ministry of defence carrying upgraded armoured personnel carriers and other equipment while heading towards the front line of the battlefield. Read more: Footage shows Russia's nuclear 'armageddon' convoy on the move: Report The nuclear threat of Russia Multiple reports have claimed that President Vladimir Putin may be attempting to send a message to the West by conducting a nuclear test, amid the Ukraine war. As reported by WION, NATO has already warned its members that Putin may have deployed Poseidon, a nuclear weapon that is also known as the "weapon of the Apocalypse". NATO issued the warning note over the weekend which was leaked to Italian media. As per the note, the doomsday weapon is on its way from its base in the Arctic circle to the Kara Sea. Meanwhile, Ramzan Kadyrov, head of Russia's region of Chechnya has urged Moscow to consider using a low-yield nuclear weapon in Ukraine. Read more: Chechen leader Kadyrov: Russia should use low-yield nuclear weapon after new defeat in Ukraine "In my personal opinion, more drastic measures should be taken, right up to the declaration of martial law in the border areas and the use of low-yield nuclear weapons," Kadyrov wrote on Telegram. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Poland approached US with offer to host its nuclear weapons: Reports

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. If some media reports are to be believed, Russia is transporting equipment for its nuclear weapons programme. Multiple reports have claimed that President Vladimir Putin may be attempting to send a message to the West by conducting a nuclear test, amid the Ukraine war. The footage of the convoy, shot at an undisclosed location in central Russia and carried by several Western news outlets shows a locomotive, linked to the 12th main directorate of the Russian ministry of defence carrying upgraded armoured personnel carriers and other equipment while heading towards the front line of the battlefield. "This is actually a kit belonging to the 12th Main Directorate of the Russian MoD. The directorate is responsible for nuclear munitions, their storage, maintenance, transport, and issuance to units," Konrad Muzyka, a defence analyst specialising in Ukraine was quoted as saying by The Telegraph. NATO sends 'nuclear' warning to allies As reported by WION, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has already warned its members that Putin may have deployed Poseidon, a nuclear weapon that is also known as the "weapon of the Apocalypse". NATO issued the warning note over the weekend which was leaked to Italian media. As per the note, the doomsday weapon is on its way from its base in the Arctic circle to the Kara Sea. Read more: NATO warns Russia may have deployed its 'weapon of the Apocalypse' Poseidon. Here's all you need to know According to data exchanged earlier this year under the New START arms reduction treaty between Moscow and Washington, Russia has 5,977 nuclear warheads for its strategic forces and the US has 5,428. Each warhead is much more powerful than the bombs dropped by the US on two Japanese cities at the end of World War II, the only time atomic weapons were used. We will use anything to protect Russia: Putin The threat of Moscow using a nuclear bomb has grown exponentially ever since the Russian troops were forced to stand down as Ukraine quickly regained ground. Putin raised the stakes further by mobilisation of reservists for the war, aiming to call up at least 300,000. But the effort is proving widely unpopular, with tens of thousands fleeing Russia and fueling protests and violence that threaten to destabilize the country. WATCH | Russia's nuclear Gambit: How real are Putin's nuclear threats in Ukraine? × Facing heat, Putin, in a televised speech said he was prepared to use any available means to defend his country, hinting at using the nuclear arsenal he has at his disposal. "If the territorial integrity of our country is threatened, we will without doubt use all available means to protect Russia and our people - this is not a bluff," Putin had said at the time. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Footage shows Russia's nuclear 'armageddon' convoy on the move: Report

The world is busy figuring out Russia's next move and Ukraine is making some move of its own. Ukraine has applied for 'fast track' NATO membership. As per experts, 'If Ukraine joins NATO, that means World War'.

Experts: If Ukraine joins NATO, that means World War

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday trained guns on Sweden and Finland once again regarding NATO membership and said Ankara continues to maintain its principle position.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday trained guns on Sweden and Finland once again regarding NATO membership and said Ankara continues to maintain its principle position. Erdogan threatened that he may not ratify the NATO membership bids of the two Nordic nations until the promises given to Ankara were met. "Until the promises made to our country are kept, we will maintain our principled position," said Erdogan in the country's parliament. "We are closely following whether the promises made by Sweden and Finland are kept or not, and of course, the final decision will be up to our great parliament," he added in the speech. Erdogan continues to denounce Finland and Sweden for providing a safe haven to Kurdish 'terrorists'. The Turkish leader is also cross with the Nordic countries for imposing an arms embargo on Ankara after Turkey's intervention in the Syrian conflict in 2019. However, in June, the three countries struck a deal where Turkey said it will seek extradition of 33 suspects from Finland and Sweden, in lieu of ratifying their NATO signing documents. Read more: NATO bid: Turkey strikes deal with Finland, Sweden over Kurdish militants However, Erdogan's statement on Saturday suggests that both Sweden and Finland had failed to make do on their promises. Both Nordic countries had sped up their process to join the nuclear-armed alliance after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February, earlier this year. As reported by WION, Sweden and Finland need NATO allies to sign the ratification to complete the formal joining process. The accession will only be complete after all 30 NATO allies have signed the form. So far, 28 out of 30 countries have signed the document. Only Turkey and Hungary are yet to put pen to paper. Read more: Joe Biden signs documents supporting Sweden and Finland's bid to join NATO Prior to the invasion, Putin had repeatedly warned that the expansion of NATO threatens Russia and contravenes assurances given to it as the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991. “We don’t have problems with Sweden and Finland like we do with Ukraine. If Finland and Sweden wish to, they can join. That’s up to them. They can join whatever they want,” said Putin. However, the Russian President warned that "if military contingents and military infrastructure were deployed there, we would be obliged to respond symmetrically and raise the same threats for those territories where threats have arisen for us”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Turkey refuses to ratify Sweden and Finland's NATO membership bid

As Europe continues to play the blame game regarding the Nord Stream pipeline leaks, China has also called for an investigation into the matter. Geng Shuang, China’s deputy permanent representative to the UN on Friday in a speech at UN Security Council stated that the damage to the two pipelines was most likely deliberate and called for an 'impartial' and 'objective' investigation into the matter.

As Europe continues to play the blame game regarding the Nord Stream pipeline leaks, China has also called for an investigation into the matter. Geng Shuang, China’s deputy permanent representative to the UN on Friday in a speech at UN Security Council stated that the damage to the two pipelines was most likely deliberate and called for an 'impartial' and 'objective' investigation into the matter. “We note that current information indicates that the leak was not an accident, but likely to be sabotage. If true, it would constitute an attack on multinational civilian facilities and undersea pipelines in violation of international law,” said the Chinese envoy. "We also note that all relevant parties consider it necessary to conduct an objective, impartial and professional investigation into the leak," he further added, Beijing also threw its hat in the ring and said it was willing to work with all the stakeholders to reach a possible solution. “The leak highlights the fragility of cross-border infrastructure. We are willing to work with all parties to maintain their security,” said Geng. Read more: Russia launches 'international terrorism' probe after Nord Stream leaks: Report As reported extensively by WION, the two explosions on the Nord Stream pipelines on Monday were followed by unexplained gas leaks. According to a Danish-Swedish investigation released on Friday, the four breaches impacting the Nord Stream gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea were brought on by underwater explosions equivalent to hundreds of kilogrammes of explosives. Germany, Denmark and Sweden have clearly mentioned that they were attacks which caused gas from the two Russian-owned gas pipelines to pour into the sea. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has called it a ploy by the West after its sanctions did not affect Moscow. "Sanctions are not enough for the West, they have switched to sabotage. Unbelievable, but it is a fact!," Putin stated during a live speech at a Kremlin ceremony to annex four areas of Ukraine that are now under Russian control. Read more: Putin blames West for Nord Stream blasts measuring 2.3 and 2.1 on Richter scale "By organising explosions on the Nord Stream international gas pipelines that run along the bottom of the Baltic Sea they actually started destroying European energy infrastructure," Putin added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China calls for 'impartial' investigation into the Nord Stream pipeline leaks

We're in the seventh month of the Ukraine-Russia conflict and in the latest, the Ukrainian troops have captured two villages that lie very close to Eastern Russian occupied stronghold of Lehman which lies in the Donetsk region and has served as a key area for Russian operations in the north of the region.

Kyiv hopes to fast-track bid to join NATO, Ukraine troops capture Russian outpost

Russia has formally annexed four Ukrainian territories, warning Ukraine against any counter-attack. This comes as Zelensky has requested a fast-track NATO membership.

WION FINEPRINT: Russia formally annexes 4 Ukrainian regions; Ukraine applies for NATO membership

Finland had shut down a section of one of its main highways for five days for the first time in decades. The Nordic country will allow its fighter jets to practice landings & take-offs on a reserve road runway.

Finland closes highway for fighter jet drill for first time in decades amid NATO bid

Unexplained gas leaks detected in the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines from Russia to Germany have prompted investigations by European countries into the cause amid fear of possible sabotage.

Russia seeks probe into leakage in Nord stream pipelines; NATO allies hint at 'act of sabotage'

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Tuesday (September 27) slammed annexation votes called by Russia in four occupied regions in Ukraine. Calling the vote a "sham", Stoltenberg said that it was "a blatant violation of international law"

He took to Twitter to say that he spoke with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky.

"Just spoke with President @ZelenskyyUa &amp; made clear that #NATO Allies are unwavering in our support for #Ukraine’s sovereignty &amp; right to self-defence. The sham referenda held by #Russia have no legitimacy &amp; are a blatant violation of international law. These lands are Ukraine," he tweeted.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Just spoke with President <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZelenskyyUa</a> &amp; made clear that <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NATO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NATO</a> Allies are unwavering in our support for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a>’s sovereignty &amp; right to self-defence. The sham referenda held by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> have no legitimacy &amp; are a blatant violation of international law. These lands are Ukraine.
— Jens Stoltenberg (@jensstoltenberg) <a href="https://twitter.com/jensstoltenberg/status/1574781321704083456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The referendums are globally being viewed as an attempt to legitimise their annexation. Despite recent retreats, Russia control large swathes of territory in eastern Ukraine that have several important cities.

Meanwhile, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has again spoken of nuclear attack on Ukraine. Medvedev is a staunch ally of Vladimir Putin.

"Let's imagine that Russia is forced to use the most fearsome weapon against the Ukrainian regime which had committed a large-scale act of aggression that is dangerous for the very existence of our state," Medvedev said in a post on Telegram.

Medvedev's remarks quoted the exact terminology of one of the conditions of Russia's nuclear strike doctrine: "aggression against the Russian Federation with conventional weapons when the very existence of the state is threatened".

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Tuesday (September 27) slammed annexation votes called by Russia in four occupied regions in Ukraine. Calling the vote a "sham", Stoltenberg said that it was "a blatant violation of international law" He took to Twitter to say that he spoke with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky.

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Tuesday (September 27) slammed annexation votes called by Russia in four occupied regions in Ukraine. Calling the vote a "sham", Stoltenberg said that it was "a blatant violation of international law" He took to Twitter to say that he spoke with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky. "Just spoke with President @ZelenskyyUa & made clear that #NATO Allies are unwavering in our support for #Ukraine’s sovereignty & right to self-defence. The sham referenda held by #Russia have no legitimacy & are a blatant violation of international law. These lands are Ukraine," he tweeted. Just spoke with President @ZelenskyyUa & made clear that #NATO Allies are unwavering in our support for #Ukraine’s sovereignty & right to self-defence. The sham referenda held by #Russia have no legitimacy & are a blatant violation of international law. These lands are Ukraine. — Jens Stoltenberg (@jensstoltenberg) September 27, 2022 × The referendums are globally being viewed as an attempt to legitimise their annexation. Despite recent retreats, Russia control large swathes of territory in eastern Ukraine that have several important cities. Meanwhile, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has again spoken of nuclear attack on Ukraine. Medvedev is a staunch ally of Vladimir Putin. "Let's imagine that Russia is forced to use the most fearsome weapon against the Ukrainian regime which had committed a large-scale act of aggression that is dangerous for the very existence of our state," Medvedev said in a post on Telegram. Medvedev's remarks quoted the exact terminology of one of the conditions of Russia's nuclear strike doctrine: "aggression against the Russian Federation with conventional weapons when the very existence of the state is threatened". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

NATO slams annexation votes in Ukraine, Putin ally repeats nuclear threat

NATO’s secretary general Jens Stoltenberg said that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s mobilisation of thousands of extra troops for the war in Ukraine will escalate the conflict and his threat to use nuclear weapons was dangerous and reckless.

NATO Chief Jens Stoltenberg says Putin's Ukraine escalation dangerous and reckless

Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced military mobilisation and called out NATO allies. He said, NATO wants to start a war against our country and West is cultivating hatred for decades.

'NATO wants to start a war against our country,' says Russian President Vladimir Putin

Four people are feared dead after a private plane reportedly carrying “a family” crashed into the Baltic Sea off the Latvia coast after “rapidly losing altitude”, according to Daily Mail.

NATO jets scrambled to intercept the Austrian-registered Cessna 551 aircraft before it crashed into the sea.

According to FlightRadar24 data, the private jet took off from southern Spain without a destination.&nbsp;Before heading straight over the Baltic, the plane turned twice at Paris and Cologne and passed near the Swedish island of Gotland.&nbsp;

German news site Bild reported that the plane was to land at Cologne-Bonn airport, Germany, but it faced pressure problems in the cabin shortly after the take-off.

According to local reports, four people were on board the plane including the pilot, a man, a woman and their daughter.

Though rescue efforts are underway, officials have warned that the chance of finding survivors is slim.

“We've learned that the plane has crashed (in the ocean) north-west of the town of Ventspils in Latvia,” Daily Mail quoted a spokesperson for Sweden's rescue service, adding that the plane “has disappeared from the radar”.

The Mirror reported that the Swedish Maritime Administration has dispatched rescue boats, planes and a helicopter to the crash site, with the country's coast guards confirming that the wreckage has been found.

Earlier, a Lithuanian air force spokesperson informed that fighter aircraft from the NATO Baltic Air Police mission in Amari airfield in Estonia had taken off to follow the plane, without giving any more details.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Four people are feared dead after a private plane reportedly carrying “a family” crashed into the Baltic Sea off the Latvia coast after “rapidly losing altitude”, according to Daily Mail.

Four people are feared dead after a private plane reportedly carrying “a family” crashed into the Baltic Sea off the Latvia coast after “rapidly losing altitude”, according to Daily Mail. NATO jets scrambled to intercept the Austrian-registered Cessna 551 aircraft before it crashed into the sea. According to FlightRadar24 data, the private jet took off from southern Spain without a destination. Before heading straight over the Baltic, the plane turned twice at Paris and Cologne and passed near the Swedish island of Gotland. German news site Bild reported that the plane was to land at Cologne-Bonn airport, Germany, but it faced pressure problems in the cabin shortly after the take-off. According to local reports, four people were on board the plane including the pilot, a man, a woman and their daughter. Though rescue efforts are underway, officials have warned that the chance of finding survivors is slim. “We've learned that the plane has crashed (in the ocean) north-west of the town of Ventspils in Latvia,” Daily Mail quoted a spokesperson for Sweden's rescue service, adding that the plane “has disappeared from the radar”. The Mirror reported that the Swedish Maritime Administration has dispatched rescue boats, planes and a helicopter to the crash site, with the country's coast guards confirming that the wreckage has been found. Earlier, a Lithuanian air force spokesperson informed that fighter aircraft from the NATO Baltic Air Police mission in Amari airfield in Estonia had taken off to follow the plane, without giving any more details. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Four feared dead after private jet crashes into Baltic Sea off Latvia coast

Why ethnic tensions are flaring again in northern Kosovo

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has called for more investment in the Arctic as Moscow reopens hundreds of Soviet-era military sites.

WION Fineprint | NATO chief warns about Russia's Arctic military build-up

One day after leaving Portsmouth for a four-month deployment to the US, the £3 billion Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales experienced mechanical difficulties.

As the Royal Navy conducts "investigations into an emergent technical issue," the 65,000-ton warship has remained on the south coast drill area close to the Isle of Wight, a spokesperson said on Sunday. They choose not to add more commentary.

According to the Navy Lookout news site, divers have been investigating the 930-foot carrier after a propeller shaft was reportedly damaged.

As reported by the Guardian, the ship, which is the biggest warship in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/halsey-suffers-food-poisoning-before-uk-festival-performance-511046">British</a> Navy and the Nato's flagship carrier, has a history of issues and was left stuck at Portsmouth at the end of 2020 after flooding in the engine room damaged the electrics. After springing leaks twice in five months, the carrier reportedly spent less than 90 days at sea during its first two years of operation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gas-crisis-hits-key-sectors-in-europe-510807">Electricity prices hit record highs in Europe, affect supply chains, spark fears of fertiliser shortage</a>

It was scheduled to go across the Atlantic with a 1,600-person crew, making stops in Halifax, Canada, New York, and the Caribbean. The crew will participate in a program using unmanned technologies and F-35B fighters to train alongside the US military and the Royal Canadian Navy.

The ship was given an energetic sendoff as it sailed through the Victorious music festival on Southsea Common in Portsmouth.

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There isn’t much that will stop a crowd of <a href="https://twitter.com/Sugababes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sugababes</a> fans <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/victoriousfestival?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#victoriousfestival</a>, except <a href="https://twitter.com/HMSPWLS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HMSPWLS</a> going past! ❤️⚓️😂 <a href="https://t.co/Bb3PV5Fq9u">pic.twitter.com/Bb3PV5Fq9u</a>
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The HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Queen Elizabeth are both ships in the UK's carrier strike group, which will deploy to the Baltic and Mediterranean this fall. 
Cold Response 22, its first drill, took place there. In addition to being able to engage in fierce combat, it is anticipated to function in a variety of situations like giving humanitarian help and disaster relief.

Also WATCH |&nbsp;Two Air France pilots suspended for cockpit brawl during Geneva-Paris flight

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One day after leaving Portsmouth for a four-month deployment to the US, the £3 billion Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales experienced mechanical difficulties.

One day after leaving Portsmouth for a four-month deployment to the US, the £3 billion Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales experienced mechanical difficulties. As the Royal Navy conducts "investigations into an emergent technical issue," the 65,000-ton warship has remained on the south coast drill area close to the Isle of Wight, a spokesperson said on Sunday. They choose not to add more commentary. According to the Navy Lookout news site, divers have been investigating the 930-foot carrier after a propeller shaft was reportedly damaged. As reported by the Guardian, the ship, which is the biggest warship in the British Navy and the Nato's flagship carrier, has a history of issues and was left stuck at Portsmouth at the end of 2020 after flooding in the engine room damaged the electrics. After springing leaks twice in five months, the carrier reportedly spent less than 90 days at sea during its first two years of operation. Also read | Electricity prices hit record highs in Europe, affect supply chains, spark fears of fertiliser shortage It was scheduled to go across the Atlantic with a 1,600-person crew, making stops in Halifax, Canada, New York, and the Caribbean. The crew will participate in a program using unmanned technologies and F-35B fighters to train alongside the US military and the Royal Canadian Navy. The ship was given an energetic sendoff as it sailed through the Victorious music festival on Southsea Common in Portsmouth. There isn’t much that will stop a crowd of @Sugababes fans #victoriousfestival, except @HMSPWLS going past! ❤️⚓️😂 pic.twitter.com/Bb3PV5Fq9u — Naval Base Commander of HMNB Portsmouth (@CdreJohnVoyce) August 27, 2022 × The HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Queen Elizabeth are both ships in the UK's carrier strike group, which will deploy to the Baltic and Mediterranean this fall. Cold Response 22, its first drill, took place there. In addition to being able to engage in fierce combat, it is anticipated to function in a variety of situations like giving humanitarian help and disaster relief. Also WATCH | Two Air France pilots suspended for cockpit brawl during Geneva-Paris flight

The HMS Prince of Wales breaks down a day after leaving Portsmouth

Jens Stoltenberg&nbsp;stated that the capabilities of Russia in the far north "are a strategic challenge for the whole alliance" due to the country's massive military buildup in the area.&nbsp;This includes, according to him, using the high north "as a testbed for the most advanced weapons, including hypersonic missiles," and reopening "hundreds of new and former Soviet-era Arctic military sites."&nbsp;

As he concluded a trip to Canada that included a tour of its Arctic defences, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg emphasised the need to increase security along the alliance's northern flank to deter Russia.&nbsp;

At a press conference held at an air base in Cold Lake, Alberta, Stoltenberg stated, "The high north is strategically important for Euro-Atlantic security," emphasising that after the accession of Finland and Sweden, seven of the eight Arctic states will be NATO members.&nbsp;

He also cautioned that the North Pole would be the shortest route for Russian missiles and bombers to reach North America. As a result, NATO and North America both rely heavily on NORAD.&nbsp;

The US-Canadian organisation NORAD stands for North American Aerospace Defense Command.

The head of NATO and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visited a Cold War-era early warning radar station and saw military drills in the Canadian Arctic.&nbsp;

He stated that the capabilities of Russia in the far north "are a strategic challenge for the whole alliance" due to the country's massive military buildup in the area.&nbsp;

This includes, according to him, using the high north "as a testbed for the most advanced weapons, including hypersonic missiles," and reopening "hundreds of new and former Soviet-era Arctic military sites."&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jihadist-ambush-on-gold-mine-vehicle-convoy-kills-seven-in-burkina-faso-510503">Jihadist ambush on gold mine vehicle convoy kills seven in Burkina Faso</a>

In addition, Stoltenberg raised alarm over China's intentions to develop the largest icebreaker fleet in the world and its plans to conduct resource exploitation and commerce in the Arctic.

"Beijing and Moscow have pledged to intensify practical cooperation in the Arctic. This forms part of the deepening strategic partnership that challenges our values and our interests, "added Stoltenberg.&nbsp;

He asserted that NATO must react by stepping up its presence in the far north and investing in new tools.&nbsp;

He stated that the increased "security challenges" posed by climate change necessitate a serious reevaluation of NATO's Arctic stance.

( with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Jens Stoltenberg stated that the capabilities of Russia in the far north "are a strategic challenge for the whole alliance" due to the country's massive military buildup in the area.

Jens Stoltenberg stated that the capabilities of Russia in the far north "are a strategic challenge for the whole alliance" due to the country's massive military buildup in the area. This includes, according to him, using the high north "as a testbed for the most advanced weapons, including hypersonic missiles," and reopening "hundreds of new and former Soviet-era Arctic military sites." As he concluded a trip to Canada that included a tour of its Arctic defences, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg emphasised the need to increase security along the alliance's northern flank to deter Russia. At a press conference held at an air base in Cold Lake, Alberta, Stoltenberg stated, "The high north is strategically important for Euro-Atlantic security," emphasising that after the accession of Finland and Sweden, seven of the eight Arctic states will be NATO members. He also cautioned that the North Pole would be the shortest route for Russian missiles and bombers to reach North America. As a result, NATO and North America both rely heavily on NORAD. The US-Canadian organisation NORAD stands for North American Aerospace Defense Command. The head of NATO and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visited a Cold War-era early warning radar station and saw military drills in the Canadian Arctic. He stated that the capabilities of Russia in the far north "are a strategic challenge for the whole alliance" due to the country's massive military buildup in the area. This includes, according to him, using the high north "as a testbed for the most advanced weapons, including hypersonic missiles," and reopening "hundreds of new and former Soviet-era Arctic military sites." Also Read: Jihadist ambush on gold mine vehicle convoy kills seven in Burkina Faso In addition, Stoltenberg raised alarm over China's intentions to develop the largest icebreaker fleet in the world and its plans to conduct resource exploitation and commerce in the Arctic. "Beijing and Moscow have pledged to intensify practical cooperation in the Arctic. This forms part of the deepening strategic partnership that challenges our values and our interests, "added Stoltenberg. He asserted that NATO must react by stepping up its presence in the far north and investing in new tools. He stated that the increased "security challenges" posed by climate change necessitate a serious reevaluation of NATO's Arctic stance. ( with inputs from agencies)

Russian militarisation in Arctic region 'strategic challenge', says NATO chief

Even if Kyiv formally renounces its aspirations to join NATO, Moscow would not stop its military campaign in Ukraine, according to Russian President Vladimir Putin's top ally Dmitry Medvedev.

Medvedev, who served as the president of Russia between 2008 and 2012, is currently the deputy chairman of the country's Security Council.

Highlighting that Russia is prepared to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Medvedev said that dropping NATO aspirations by Kyiv will not be sufficient in order to establish peace.

Medvedev told LCI television that Putin will not stop his ''special military operation'' to "denazify" Ukraine until its goals have been achieved. &nbsp;

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Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, several rounds of peace talks were held between the two countries, but they made no progress.

Denying that US weapons supplied to Ukraine pose a substantial threat, Medvedev said the situation would change if Washington sent weapons that could hit targets at longer distances.

"It means that when this sort of missile flies 70 km, that is one thing," he said.&nbsp;

"But when it's 300-400 km, that is another, now that would be a threat directly to the territory of the Russian Federation."

As he wrapped up a visit to Canada that included a tour of its Arctic defences, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg stressed the need to beef up security along the alliance's northern flank to counter Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's LIVE TV here:

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&nbsp;

Even if Kyiv formally renounces its aspirations to join NATO, Moscow would not stop its military campaign in Ukraine, according to Russian President Vladimir Putin's top ally Dmitry Medvedev.

Even if Kyiv formally renounces its aspirations to join NATO, Moscow would not stop its military campaign in Ukraine, according to Russian President Vladimir Putin's top ally Dmitry Medvedev. Medvedev, who served as the president of Russia between 2008 and 2012, is currently the deputy chairman of the country's Security Council. Highlighting that Russia is prepared to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Medvedev said that dropping NATO aspirations by Kyiv will not be sufficient in order to establish peace. Medvedev told LCI television that Putin will not stop his ''special military operation'' to "denazify" Ukraine until its goals have been achieved. × Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, several rounds of peace talks were held between the two countries, but they made no progress. Denying that US weapons supplied to Ukraine pose a substantial threat, Medvedev said the situation would change if Washington sent weapons that could hit targets at longer distances. "It means that when this sort of missile flies 70 km, that is one thing," he said. "But when it's 300-400 km, that is another, now that would be a threat directly to the territory of the Russian Federation." As he wrapped up a visit to Canada that included a tour of its Arctic defences, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg stressed the need to beef up security along the alliance's northern flank to counter Russia. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's LIVE TV here: ×

Putin's ally says Moscow would not stop its military campaign in Ukraine even if Kyiv drops NATO hopes

Investigators have discovered an undercover Russian spy in Italy who allegedly "charmed her way into NATO circles", say reports.

Researchers from Bellingcat,&nbsp;a Netherlands-based investigative journalism group that specialises in fact-checking and open-source intelligence, said a woman named Maria Adela Kuhfeldt Rivera posed as a Latin American jewellery designer and travelled the world as a Peru-born socialite and had made friends in the NATO offices in Naples while she worked as a deep-cover spy.

The woman was defined as a "GRU illegal" by the investigators. 
 
“Maria Adela” reportedly travelled to Malta and Rome between 2009 and 2011 and tried to obtain a German passport because she reportedly had a German father. The investigators said she received a Russian passport in 2006.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-spy-held-for-trying-to-enter-international-criminal-court-via-internship-in-netherlands-488938">Also Read:&nbsp;</a><a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/russian-spy-held-for-trying-to-enter-international-criminal-court-via-internship-in-netherlands-488938" hreflang="en">Russian spy held for trying to enter war crimes court in Netherlands</a>

“Maria Adela” also allegedly married an Italian man. Investigators, however, claimed the man was born in Moscow and held Ecuadorian and Russian citizenship. The man reportedly died in Moscow in 2013.

Watch:&nbsp;Russian hacking group targets Norway's public websites

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The woman's mother had reportedly left her in the former Soviet Union in 1980 as she visited the country to witness the Olympic Games. The mother apparently never returned after leaving for Peru. She was adopted by a Russian family&nbsp;which&nbsp;had befriended her mother. Maria claimed her adoptive parents abused her during her childhood.

Adela moved to Naples in 2015 and worked as a "Russian spy" and worked for the military intelligence agency, the GRU, as she mixed in&nbsp;the local social scene and opened a jewellery boutique which became a trendy club. She was also part of the Lions Club and reportedly mingled with many NATO staff members and one NATO employee allegedly had a "brief romantic relationship with Maria Adela". 
 
She also reportedly had access to US Navy officers in Naples and attended NATO annual balls, fund-raising dinners and US Marine Corps balls.

The mysterious 'GRU illegal' also visited Bahrain in 2017, Bellingcat revealed, however, in 2018 she suddenly flew to Moscow and allegedly said on her Facebook page that she had cancer and had undergone chemotherapy.

(With inputs from Agencies)

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Investigators have discovered an undercover Russian spy in Italy who allegedly "charmed her way into NATO circles", say reports. Researchers from Bellingcat, a Netherlands-based investigative journalism group that specialises in fact-checking and open-source intelligence, said a woman named Maria Adela Kuhfeldt Rivera posed as a Latin American jewellery designer and travelled the world as a Peru-born socialite and had made friends in the NATO offices in Naples while she worked as a deep-cover spy.

Investigators have discovered an undercover Russian spy in Italy who allegedly "charmed her way into NATO circles", say reports. Researchers from Bellingcat, a Netherlands-based investigative journalism group that specialises in fact-checking and open-source intelligence, said a woman named Maria Adela Kuhfeldt Rivera posed as a Latin American jewellery designer and travelled the world as a Peru-born socialite and had made friends in the NATO offices in Naples while she worked as a deep-cover spy. The woman was defined as a "GRU illegal" by the investigators. “Maria Adela” reportedly travelled to Malta and Rome between 2009 and 2011 and tried to obtain a German passport because she reportedly had a German father. The investigators said she received a Russian passport in 2006. Also Read: Russian spy held for trying to enter war crimes court in Netherlands “Maria Adela” also allegedly married an Italian man. Investigators, however, claimed the man was born in Moscow and held Ecuadorian and Russian citizenship. The man reportedly died in Moscow in 2013. Watch: Russian hacking group targets Norway's public websites The woman's mother had reportedly left her in the former Soviet Union in 1980 as she visited the country to witness the Olympic Games. The mother apparently never returned after leaving for Peru. She was adopted by a Russian family which had befriended her mother. Maria claimed her adoptive parents abused her during her childhood. Adela moved to Naples in 2015 and worked as a "Russian spy" and worked for the military intelligence agency, the GRU, as she mixed in the local social scene and opened a jewellery boutique which became a trendy club. She was also part of the Lions Club and reportedly mingled with many NATO staff members and one NATO employee allegedly had a "brief romantic relationship with Maria Adela". She also reportedly had access to US Navy officers in Naples and attended NATO annual balls, fund-raising dinners and US Marine Corps balls. The mysterious 'GRU illegal' also visited Bahrain in 2017, Bellingcat revealed, however, in 2018 she suddenly flew to Moscow and allegedly said on her Facebook page that she had cancer and had undergone chemotherapy. (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian 'deep cover-spy' mixed freely with NATO officials in Naples, claim investigators

NATO is building a new military base in Romania. The aim is to secure NATO's 'eastern flank'. Over 1,000 troops will be stationed at this base. Palki Sharma reports.

Gravitas: NATO is building a military base in Romania

India has confirmed holding talks with NATO officials late in 2019. Chinese state media criticised the talks saying NATO would trigger tensions and divisions in Asia. Palki Sharma tells you how India must deal with the alliance.

Gravitas: India held talks with NATO in 2019

A week after Senate ratified the entrance of Nordic countries Finland and Sweden into North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), US President Joe Biden on Tuesday signed the&nbsp;instruments of ratification, confirming the accession.

The expansion of NATO, the world's most powerful military alliance, comes in the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Biden said, "It was and is a watershed moment. I believe in the alliance and for the greater security and stability not only of Europe and the United States but of the world."

Taking a dig at Russian President Vladimir Putin, the US president, speaking from the East Room of the White House added, ″Putin thought he could break us apart. Our alliance is closer than ever, it is more united than ever and after Finland and Sweden join, we will be stronger than ever.”

Taking to Twitter, Biden reaffirmed his formal backing to the two Nordic countries. "Finland and Sweden will make NATO stronger. Today, I signed the U.S. Instruments of Ratification, making the United States the 23rd Ally to approve their membership in NATO," he tweeted.&nbsp;

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Finland and Sweden will make NATO stronger. 
 
Today, I signed the U.S. Instruments of Ratification, making the United States the 23rd Ally to approve their membership in NATO.
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1557081605713416192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Read more:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finally-finland-sweden-get-formal-invites-to-join-nato-493057">&nbsp;Finally, Finland, Sweden get formal invites to join NATO</a>

After Biden's signature, Sweden and Finland need the other allies to sign the&nbsp;ratification to complete the formal process. The accession will be complete only after all the 30 NATO allies have signed the form that the two countries will be protected under Article Five of NATO, where an attack on one ally is deemed an attack on all.&nbsp;

It is pertinent to note that both Nordic countries had sped up their process to join the&nbsp;nuclear-armed alliance after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February, earlier this year.

Prior to the invasion,&nbsp;Putin had repeatedly warned that the expansion of NATO threatens Russia and&nbsp;contravenes&nbsp;assurances given to it as the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-warns-nato-against-inclusion-of-finland-sweden-440093">Russia warns NATO against inclusion of Finland, Sweden</a>

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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A week after Senate ratified the entrance of Nordic countries Finland and Sweden into North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), US President Joe Biden on Tuesday signed the instruments of ratification, confirming the accession.

A week after Senate ratified the entrance of Nordic countries Finland and Sweden into North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), US President Joe Biden on Tuesday signed the instruments of ratification, confirming the accession. The expansion of NATO, the world's most powerful military alliance, comes in the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Biden said, "It was and is a watershed moment. I believe in the alliance and for the greater security and stability not only of Europe and the United States but of the world." Taking a dig at Russian President Vladimir Putin, the US president, speaking from the East Room of the White House added, ″Putin thought he could break us apart. Our alliance is closer than ever, it is more united than ever and after Finland and Sweden join, we will be stronger than ever.” Taking to Twitter, Biden reaffirmed his formal backing to the two Nordic countries. "Finland and Sweden will make NATO stronger. Today, I signed the U.S. Instruments of Ratification, making the United States the 23rd Ally to approve their membership in NATO," he tweeted. Finland and Sweden will make NATO stronger. Today, I signed the U.S. Instruments of Ratification, making the United States the 23rd Ally to approve their membership in NATO. — President Biden (@POTUS) August 9, 2022 × Read more: Finally, Finland, Sweden get formal invites to join NATO After Biden's signature, Sweden and Finland need the other allies to sign the ratification to complete the formal process. The accession will be complete only after all the 30 NATO allies have signed the form that the two countries will be protected under Article Five of NATO, where an attack on one ally is deemed an attack on all. It is pertinent to note that both Nordic countries had sped up their process to join the nuclear-armed alliance after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February, earlier this year. Prior to the invasion, Putin had repeatedly warned that the expansion of NATO threatens Russia and contravenes assurances given to it as the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991. Read more: Russia warns NATO against inclusion of Finland, Sweden (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Joe Biden signs documents supporting Sweden and Finland's bid to join NATO

US senators have approved Finland and Sweden's accession to NATO. More than half of all NATO member parliaments have ratified the alliance's Nordic expansion. Palki Sharma gets you the latest on the Ukraine war front.

Gravitas: US senate ratifies Finland & Sweden's NATO accession

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