<p>NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg sounded positive but a bit still guarded about Sweden's bid to join the alliance. His latest statement came after US urged Turkey to clear way for Sweden. Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is fresh from an election victory.</p>

<p>Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said it was "within reach" for Sweden to join in time for the July 11-12 NATO summit in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius.</p>

<p>"There are no guarantees but it's absolutely possible to reach a solution and enable the decision on full membership for Sweden by then," Stoltenberg told reporters in Oslo on the eve of a NATO foreign ministers' meeting to prepare for the summit.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | US President Biden &amp; his Turkey counterpart Erdogan discuss F-16, Sweden in NATO</strong></p>

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<p>Sweden and Finland changed their neutral stance last year after Russian invasion of Ukraine and applied to become members of NATO. However, the decision to induct a new member must be taken unanimously by existing members. Turkey allowed Finland to become NATO member in April but it is still blocking Sweden's bid.</p>

<p>Turkey has been raising the issue of Kurdish militants.</p>

<h2><strong>'Sweden is ready'</strong></h2>

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that that the Swedish government has already addressed Turkey's concerns.</p>

<p>"There is no reason for any further time. Sweden is ready now," Blinken told a news conference with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in the northern Swedish city of Lulea.</p>

<p>"We urge both Turkey and Hungary -- which also has not yet ratified -- to ratify the accession as quickly as possible," he said.</p>

<p>The State Department said that Blinken raised Sweden's case with Turkey in a telephone call with Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu. The issue had also come up during phone conversation between US President Joe Biden and Turkish President Erdogan. Biden had called Erdogan to congratulate him on his election victory.</p>

<p>Blinken said the United States wants the process to be "completed in the weeks ahead" but stopped short of saying if he was certain it would be finished by the summit.</p>

<h2><strong>Turkey's unhappiness</strong></h2>

<p>Erdogan has in past expressed his displeasure against Sweden's generous asylum policies and has accused the country of giving shelter to 'terrorists' from the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). The PKK is outlawed in Turkey.</p>

<p>The topic came to the fore as late as Monday, when the pro-Kurdish Rojava Committee of Sweden posted an anti-Erdogan video on social media. The video showed a PKK flag being projected onto the Swedish parliament.</p>

<p>Stoltenberg said he was in "constant contact" with Turkish authorities to try to lift the final obstacles to Sweden's accession.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg sounded positive but a bit still guarded about Sweden's bid to join the alliance. His latest statement came after US urged Turkey to clear way for Sweden.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg sounded positive but a bit still guarded about Sweden's bid to join the alliance. His latest statement came after US urged Turkey to clear way for Sweden. Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is fresh from an election victory. Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said it was "within reach" for Sweden to join in time for the July 11-12 NATO summit in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius. "There are no guarantees but it's absolutely possible to reach a solution and enable the decision on full membership for Sweden by then," Stoltenberg told reporters in Oslo on the eve of a NATO foreign ministers' meeting to prepare for the summit. Watch | US President Biden & his Turkey counterpart Erdogan discuss F-16, Sweden in NATO × Sweden and Finland changed their neutral stance last year after Russian invasion of Ukraine and applied to become members of NATO. However, the decision to induct a new member must be taken unanimously by existing members. Turkey allowed Finland to become NATO member in April but it is still blocking Sweden's bid. Turkey has been raising the issue of Kurdish militants. 'Sweden is ready' US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that that the Swedish government has already addressed Turkey's concerns. "There is no reason for any further time. Sweden is ready now," Blinken told a news conference with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in the northern Swedish city of Lulea. "We urge both Turkey and Hungary -- which also has not yet ratified -- to ratify the accession as quickly as possible," he said. The State Department said that Blinken raised Sweden's case with Turkey in a telephone call with Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu. The issue had also come up during phone conversation between US President Joe Biden and Turkish President Erdogan. Biden had called Erdogan to congratulate him on his election victory. Blinken said the United States wants the process to be "completed in the weeks ahead" but stopped short of saying if he was certain it would be finished by the summit. Turkey's unhappiness Erdogan has in past expressed his displeasure against Sweden's generous asylum policies and has accused the country of giving shelter to 'terrorists' from the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). The PKK is outlawed in Turkey. The topic came to the fore as late as Monday, when the pro-Kurdish Rojava Committee of Sweden posted an anti-Erdogan video on social media. The video showed a PKK flag being projected onto the Swedish parliament. Stoltenberg said he was in "constant contact" with Turkish authorities to try to lift the final obstacles to Sweden's accession. (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 optimistic about Sweden membership bid after US appeals Turkey for nod

Sweden has not lost all hope as far as its NATO membership is considered it aspires to be a part of North Atlantic Treaty Organization or the NATO by the time the block holds its Summit in Lithuanian capital city of Vilnius in July this is in line with statements coming from senior officials from Washington.

NATO chief gives hope to Sweden's accession

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg is hosting two-day informal meeting of NATO Foreign Ministers in Oslo, Norway. The meeting comes ahead of a NATO summit which is scheduled to be held in July in Lithuania.

Jens Stoltenberg chairs two-day informal meeting of NATO Foreign Ministers in Oslo

Will Turkey clear the path for Sweden

Serbia's President Aleksandar Vučić has put the Army on the highest level of combat alert. This comes after clashes broke out between cell protesters and NATO peacekeeping forces in northern Kosovo on Monday.

Kosovo: 30 NATO soldiers, 52 ethnic Serbs injured in clashes | World DNA

Kosovo remains on edge amid continuous clashes between Serbs and NATO forces. The Serbian President has put his army to the highest level of combat alert. The European Union top diplomat and Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell has condemned the violence in the North of Kosovo saying that it is absolutely unacceptable and is completely dangerous.

Kosovo clashes: The Serbian army was put on high combat alert

A two-day informal meeting of NATO foreign ministers is taking place in Oslo, Norway. The meeting will be chaired by NATO general secretary, Jens Stoltenberg. The informal meeting comes ahead of a NATO summit which is scheduled to be held in July in Lithuania. There are multiple issues that are likely to dominate these talks. Let's break that down for you.

NATO foreign minister meeting decoded | Here's what likely to dominate talks

<p>US President Joe Biden and Turkey's re-elected President Recep Tayyip Erdogan spoke over phone on Monday (May 29). The US president said later on that Erdogan repeated Turkey's desire to buy F-16 fighter jets from the US. Biden conveyed&nbsp;Erdogan that the US was keen for Turkey to drop its objection to Sweden joining NATO. Biden had called Erdogan to congratulate him on his election victory.</p>

<p>"I spoke to Erdogan. I congratulated Erdogan. He still wants to work out something on the F-16s. I told him we wanted to deal with Sweden, so let's get that done. And so we'll be back in touch with one another," Biden told reporters before departing the White House for Delaware.</p>

<p>"We're going to talk more about it next week," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Erdogan and the policies that helped him win Turkey presidential runoff</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>If a country is to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), all existing members must approve the bid. Turkey and Hungary are yet to approve Sweden's bid to join the alliance.</p>

<p>Turkey has sought to buy $20 billion worth of F-16s and nearly 80 modernization kits from the United States, but the sale has been stalled due to objections from the US Congress over Ankara's problematic human rights record and Syria policy, even though the Biden administration has repeatedly said it supports the sale.</p>

<p>Earlier this year, when Turkey ratified Finland's NATO accession, the US Congress approved a much smaller USD 259 million package for Turkey within days. The package included avionics software upgrades for Turkey's current fleet of F-16 fighter aircraft.</p>

<h2><strong>Quid pro quo?</strong></h2>

<p>The US government has repeatedly rejected assertions that the F-16 sale was being delayed in order to obtain Turkey's approval for new NATO bids. However, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said in January this year that it was made clear by the US side that approval of NATO bids would be viewed positively by the US Congress.</p>

<p>A bipartisan group of senators in a February letter to Biden said Turkey's failure to ratify the accession protocols for Sweden and Finland, which was still waiting at the time, would "call into question this pending sale", referring to the F-16s.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/rise-and-rise-of-turkish-president-recep-tayyip-erdogan-name-etched-in-gold-but-challenge-not-over-597903">Rise and rise of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan: Name etched in gold, but challenge not over</a></strong></p>

<p>AFP quoted an unnamed source who said that the US had previously told Turkey that if it&nbsp;doesn't greenlight Sweden, it would be hard to approve the F-16 deal.</p>

<p>Sweden as well as Finland applied for NATO membership last year, ditching long-held policies of military non-alignment following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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US President Joe Biden and Turkey's re-elected President Recep Tayyip Erdogan spoke over phone on Monday (May 29). The US president said later on that Erdogan repeated Turkey's desire to buy F-16 fighter jets from the US.

US President Joe Biden and Turkey's re-elected President Recep Tayyip Erdogan spoke over phone on Monday (May 29). The US president said later on that Erdogan repeated Turkey's desire to buy F-16 fighter jets from the US. Biden conveyed Erdogan that the US was keen for Turkey to drop its objection to Sweden joining NATO. Biden had called Erdogan to congratulate him on his election victory. "I spoke to Erdogan. I congratulated Erdogan. He still wants to work out something on the F-16s. I told him we wanted to deal with Sweden, so let's get that done. And so we'll be back in touch with one another," Biden told reporters before departing the White House for Delaware. "We're going to talk more about it next week," he added. Watch | Erdogan and the policies that helped him win Turkey presidential runoff × If a country is to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), all existing members must approve the bid. Turkey and Hungary are yet to approve Sweden's bid to join the alliance. Turkey has sought to buy $20 billion worth of F-16s and nearly 80 modernization kits from the United States, but the sale has been stalled due to objections from the US Congress over Ankara's problematic human rights record and Syria policy, even though the Biden administration has repeatedly said it supports the sale. Earlier this year, when Turkey ratified Finland's NATO accession, the US Congress approved a much smaller USD 259 million package for Turkey within days. The package included avionics software upgrades for Turkey's current fleet of F-16 fighter aircraft. Quid pro quo? The US government has repeatedly rejected assertions that the F-16 sale was being delayed in order to obtain Turkey's approval for new NATO bids. However, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said in January this year that it was made clear by the US side that approval of NATO bids would be viewed positively by the US Congress. A bipartisan group of senators in a February letter to Biden said Turkey's failure to ratify the accession protocols for Sweden and Finland, which was still waiting at the time, would "call into question this pending sale", referring to the F-16s. Also Read | Rise and rise of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan: Name etched in gold, but challenge not over AFP quoted an unnamed source who said that the US had previously told Turkey that if it doesn't greenlight Sweden, it would be hard to approve the F-16 deal. Sweden as well as Finland applied for NATO membership last year, ditching long-held policies of military non-alignment following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. (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 ×

Biden congratulates Erodogan for poll win, discusses F-16s, NATO with Turkish leader

In first days of the Ukraine war, Turkey emerged as an irreplaceable mediator between Moscow & Kyiv, as western nations were not enthusiastic about talking to Putin. The growing importance of Turkey's defence industry has made it an important player which directly affects western interests. the Turkish-made Bayraktar tb-2 armed drones have proven themselves very effective in multiple conflicts in the past years.

US President Biden & his Turkey counterpart Erdogan discuss F-16, Sweden in NATO

<p>Around 25 of NATO-led peacekeepers were injured on&nbsp;Monday (May 29) as they clashed with ethnic Serb protesters in north Kosovo. The protesters were demanding removal of ethnic Albanian mayors who were elected in recent elections in northern Kosovo. Serbs in Kosovo had boycotted the elections which took place in northern Kosovan towns. This allowed ethnic Albanians to take control of local councils. The turnout for elections was a minuscule 3.5 per cent.</p>

<p>The Serbian president has put the army on highest level of combat alert.</p>

<p>Last week, Kosovo's Prime Minister Albin Kurti officially installed the mayors. He defied calls from the EU and the US to ease the tension. Both, the EU and the US had supported Kosovo's independence from Serbia in 2008.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Serbian army on combat alert</strong></p>

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<p>Earlier on Monday, groups of Serbs gathered in front of the municipal building in the Serb-majority town of Zvecan and tried to force their way into the building.</p>

<p>AFP reported that the police responded with tear gas and pushed the protesters back as they tried to enter the building.</p>

<p>Many Serbs are demanding withdrawal of Kosovo police forces. Presence of these forces in northern regions of Kosovo has for a long time caused resistance. Serbs do not consider ethnic Albanian mayors to be their true representatives.</p>

<h2><strong>Molotov cocktails hurled at NATO peacekeepers</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="Kosovo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5e0fd580-a982-409f-bdb2-3e728c669163" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/molotov.jpg" /></p>

<p>NATO-led peacekeepers in the KFOR mission at first attempted to separate protesters from the police. But later they used their shields and batons to disperse the crowd.</p>

<p>Several protesters retaliated&nbsp;by hurling rocks, bottles and Molotov cocktails at the soldiers, but were quickly repelled a few hundred meters away from the Zvecan municipal building.</p>

<p>"The protesters, using violence and throwing tear gas, tried to cross the security cordons and make a forced entry into the municipality facility," Kosovo police said in a statement as reported by AFP.</p>

<p>"Police were forced to use legal means, such as (pepper) spray, to stop the protesters and bring the situation under control."</p>

<p>KFOR condemned the violence.</p>

<p><img alt="Kosovo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b2a7ac6b-e00b-4a0e-927f-558ca7e5804d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/kos.jpg" /></p>

<p>"While countering the most active fringes of the crowd, several soldiers of the Italian and Hungarian KFOR contingent were the subject of unprovoked attacks and sustained trauma wounds with fractures and burns due to the explosion of incendiary devices," it said in a statement.</p>

<h2><strong>Kosovo blames Serbia</strong></h2>

<p>Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani lashed out at Serbian President Aleksander Vucic and alleged that Serbia was trying to destabilise Kosovo.</p>

<p>"Serb illegal structures turned into criminal gangs have attacked Kosovo police, KFOR (peacekeeping) officers &amp; journalists. Those who carry out Vucic's orders to destabilise the north of Kosovo, must face justice," Osmani tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Serb illegal structures turned into criminal gangs have attacked Kosovo police, KFOR officers &amp; journalists.<br />
<br />
These unacceptable acts of violence should be condemned by all. Those who carry out Vucic's orders to destabilise the north of Kosovo, must face justice.</p>
— Vjosa Osmani (@VjosaOsmaniPRKS) <a href="https://twitter.com/VjosaOsmaniPRKS/status/1663218288011124740?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Kosovo unilaterally declared independence from Serbia in 2008. Serbia's allies Russia and China have refused recognition. This has prevented Kosovo from having a seat at United Nations.</p>

<p>Ethnic Serbs, especially those in the northern parts of Kosovo have remained largely loyal to Serbia. In this region, they make up the majority and oppose any move by Kosovo to strengthen its hold.</p>

<p>KFOR said it had bolstered its presence in northern Kosovo following the latest developments and urged Belgrade and Pristina to engage in an EU-led dialogue to reduce tensions.</p>

<p>"We call on all sides to refrain from actions that could inflame tensions or cause escalation," KFOR said in a statement.<br />
Police had already used tear gas Friday to disperse Serbs in northern Kosovo who protested the installation of the mayors.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Around 25 of NATO-led peacekeepers were injured on Monday (May 29) as they clashed with ethnic Serb protesters in north Kosovo. The protesters were demanding removal of ethnic Albanian mayors who were elected in recent elections in northern Kosovo.

Around 25 of NATO-led peacekeepers were injured on Monday (May 29) as they clashed with ethnic Serb protesters in north Kosovo. The protesters were demanding removal of ethnic Albanian mayors who were elected in recent elections in northern Kosovo. Serbs in Kosovo had boycotted the elections which took place in northern Kosovan towns. This allowed ethnic Albanians to take control of local councils. The turnout for elections was a minuscule 3.5 per cent. The Serbian president has put the army on highest level of combat alert. Last week, Kosovo's Prime Minister Albin Kurti officially installed the mayors. He defied calls from the EU and the US to ease the tension. Both, the EU and the US had supported Kosovo's independence from Serbia in 2008. Watch | Serbian army on combat alert × Earlier on Monday, groups of Serbs gathered in front of the municipal building in the Serb-majority town of Zvecan and tried to force their way into the building. AFP reported that the police responded with tear gas and pushed the protesters back as they tried to enter the building. Many Serbs are demanding withdrawal of Kosovo police forces. Presence of these forces in northern regions of Kosovo has for a long time caused resistance. Serbs do not consider ethnic Albanian mayors to be their true representatives. Molotov cocktails hurled at NATO peacekeepers NATO-led peacekeepers in the KFOR mission at first attempted to separate protesters from the police. But later they used their shields and batons to disperse the crowd. Several protesters retaliated by hurling rocks, bottles and Molotov cocktails at the soldiers, but were quickly repelled a few hundred meters away from the Zvecan municipal building. "The protesters, using violence and throwing tear gas, tried to cross the security cordons and make a forced entry into the municipality facility," Kosovo police said in a statement as reported by AFP. "Police were forced to use legal means, such as (pepper) spray, to stop the protesters and bring the situation under control." KFOR condemned the violence. "While countering the most active fringes of the crowd, several soldiers of the Italian and Hungarian KFOR contingent were the subject of unprovoked attacks and sustained trauma wounds with fractures and burns due to the explosion of incendiary devices," it said in a statement. Kosovo blames Serbia Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani lashed out at Serbian President Aleksander Vucic and alleged that Serbia was trying to destabilise Kosovo. "Serb illegal structures turned into criminal gangs have attacked Kosovo police, KFOR (peacekeeping) officers & journalists. Those who carry out Vucic's orders to destabilise the north of Kosovo, must face justice," Osmani tweeted. Serb illegal structures turned into criminal gangs have attacked Kosovo police, KFOR officers & journalists. These unacceptable acts of violence should be condemned by all. Those who carry out Vucic's orders to destabilise the north of Kosovo, must face justice. — Vjosa Osmani (@VjosaOsmaniPRKS) May 29, 2023 × Kosovo unilaterally declared independence from Serbia in 2008. Serbia's allies Russia and China have refused recognition. This has prevented Kosovo from having a seat at United Nations. Ethnic Serbs, especially those in the northern parts of Kosovo have remained largely loyal to Serbia. In this region, they make up the majority and oppose any move by Kosovo to strengthen its hold. KFOR said it had bolstered its presence in northern Kosovo following the latest developments and urged Belgrade and Pristina to engage in an EU-led dialogue to reduce tensions. "We call on all sides to refrain from actions that could inflame tensions or cause escalation," KFOR said in a statement. Police had already used tear gas Friday to disperse Serbs in northern Kosovo who protested the installation of the mayors. (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 ×

Kosovo: NATO troops clash with ethnic Serb protesters, 25 soldiers injured

Sweden, US voice hope for NATO enlargement

The contest for the top position in the transatlantic military alliance is now heating up, but there is no clear winner as of yet. Current NATO secretary and general Jen Stoltenberg is set to leave her position at the end of September after serving in that capacity for nine years.

NATO Chief Jens Stoltenberg to step down in September this year

Top leaders at the Pentagon are defending their decision to hold off US support for F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. Initially reluctant, the US and other NATO countries recently agreed to allow Ukrainian pilots to receive training to fly F-16 fighters. However, none has yet committed to hand over any planes. US defence secretary said he hopes that training for Ukrainian pilots on American-made F-16 jets will begin in the coming weeks.

No NATO nation has agreed to hand over F-16 fighter jets, says US top General Mark Miley

<p>Jens Stoltenberg, Secretary General of NATO, said on Wednesday (May 24) that Ukraine won't be able to join the alliance as long as the war with Russia goes on.</p>

<p>"To become a member in the midst of a war is not on the agenda," he said at an event organised by the German Marshall Fund of The United States in Brussels. "The issue is what happens when the war ends."</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in September last year launched a bid to fast-track the membership of NATO. This came after Russian President Vladimir Putin declared the annexation of four partially occupied regions of Ukraine.</p>

<p>The alliance has not acceded to Zelensky's request. Western governments are still wary of moves that they fear would bring NATO closer to active war with Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia claims 70 attackers killed in cross-border Belgorod raid</strong></p>

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<p>However, Ukraine and some of its allies are urging NATO to at least take steps to bring Kyiv closer to membership.</p>

<p>"It is time for the alliance to stop making excuses and start the process that leads to Ukraine's eventual accession," Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba wrote in an op-ed for Foreign Affairs in April. "What we need is a clear written statement from the allies laying out a path to accession."</p>

<h2><strong>Future of Ukraine lies with NATO</strong></h2>

<p>Stoltenberg visited Kyiv in April. At the time, he underscored that the future of Ukraine lies in NATO. However, he avoided giving a timeline for Ukraine's possible inclusion in the alliance.</p>

<p>In 2008, NATO had agreed at its Bucharest summit that Ukraine will eventually be part of the alliance.</p>

<p>However, leaders have since stopped short of taking any steps, such as giving Kyiv a membership action plan that would lay out a timetable for bringing the country closer to NATO.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-belgorod-raid-which-fighters-from-ukraine-infiltrated-russia-and-infuriated-putin-596008">Explained | Belgorod raid: The combatants who infiltrated Russia and infuriated Putin</a></strong></p>

<p>At the Brussels event, Stoltenberg acknowledged there were differences among NATO members over how to address Kyiv's membership ambitions.</p>

<p>"There are different views in the alliance and, of course, the only way to make decisions in NATO is by consensus. There are consultations going on now," Stoltenberg said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Jens Stoltenberg, Secretary General of NATO, said on Wednesday (May 24) that Ukraine won't be able to join the alliance as long as the war with Russia goes on. "To become a member in the midst of a war is not on the agenda," he said at an event organised by the German Marshall Fund of The United States in Brussels.

Jens Stoltenberg, Secretary General of NATO, said on Wednesday (May 24) that Ukraine won't be able to join the alliance as long as the war with Russia goes on. "To become a member in the midst of a war is not on the agenda," he said at an event organised by the German Marshall Fund of The United States in Brussels. "The issue is what happens when the war ends." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in September last year launched a bid to fast-track the membership of NATO. This came after Russian President Vladimir Putin declared the annexation of four partially occupied regions of Ukraine. The alliance has not acceded to Zelensky's request. Western governments are still wary of moves that they fear would bring NATO closer to active war with Russia. Watch | Russia claims 70 attackers killed in cross-border Belgorod raid × However, Ukraine and some of its allies are urging NATO to at least take steps to bring Kyiv closer to membership. "It is time for the alliance to stop making excuses and start the process that leads to Ukraine's eventual accession," Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba wrote in an op-ed for Foreign Affairs in April. "What we need is a clear written statement from the allies laying out a path to accession." Future of Ukraine lies with NATO Stoltenberg visited Kyiv in April. At the time, he underscored that the future of Ukraine lies in NATO. However, he avoided giving a timeline for Ukraine's possible inclusion in the alliance. In 2008, NATO had agreed at its Bucharest summit that Ukraine will eventually be part of the alliance. However, leaders have since stopped short of taking any steps, such as giving Kyiv a membership action plan that would lay out a timetable for bringing the country closer to NATO. Also Read | Explained | Belgorod raid: The combatants who infiltrated Russia and infuriated Putin At the Brussels event, Stoltenberg acknowledged there were differences among NATO members over how to address Kyiv's membership ambitions. "There are different views in the alliance and, of course, the only way to make decisions in NATO is by consensus. There are consultations going on now," Stoltenberg said. (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 ×

Tough to include Ukraine in NATO while war goes on: Stoltenberg

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida says that Japan has no plans to join NATO, but has agreed to a liaison office in the nation. China has called out NATO and said that the new move will not be welcome. Why did NATO not include Japan as a member earlier? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Japan says no to NATO membership

NATO Chief Jens Stoltenberg defended the groups call to train Ukrainian pilots on the F-16 fighter jets. This comes after the European Union's Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell said that training for Ukrainian pilots had already begun in Poland and some other countries as well. The NATO Chief further called Russia-Ukraine conflict a wall of aggression and said that Ukraine has the right to defend itself.

EU begins training of Ukrainian on F-16 fighter jets in Poland

China warned the NATO against implementing its plans of integrating a Liaison office in Japan to coordinate with the allies in the Indo-Pacific region.

China opposes NATO's plan to open a Liaison office in Japan

<p>Japan has no plans to become a NATO member, even though the military alliance was planning a liaison office in Tokyo, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Wednesday</p>

<p>Kishida was responding to questions after&nbsp;Japan's ambassador to the US Koji Tomita, earlier this month said Tokyo and NATO were working towards opening an office - the first in Asia, to facilitate consultations in the region.</p>

<p>"I am not aware of any decision made&nbsp;at NATO regarding the establishment of the office,"&nbsp;Kishida told a Wednesday parliament session.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>China reacts sharply&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>After Kishida's statement not ruling&nbsp;out the possibility of opening a NATO office, China reacted sternly. Beijing said Asia-Pacific does not welcome NATO's plan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We want to say that the Asia-Pacific does not welcome group confrontation, does not welcome military confrontation," said Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning.</p>

<p>Mao warned that Japan should be "extra cautious on the issue of military security" given its "history of aggression".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Beijing continues to refer to the maritime regions east of the Arabian Sea in the Indian Ocean as Asia-Pacific, despite the entire world having moved on to the accurate and factual lexicon - the Indo-Pacific, which refers to&nbsp;India's centrality in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;NATO to strengthen partnership with Japan amid the ongoing Ukraine war</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>What did the Japanese ambassador say?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this month, Tomita, at an event hosted&nbsp;by the National Press Club in Washington said Japan and NATO were working in the direction of opening the liaison office.</p>

<p>"The point you mentioned is one of the things that we are working on to strengthen our partnership. But I really haven't heard any final confirmation of that, but we are working in that direction," said Tomita, when quizzed about the Nikkei Asia report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nikkei Asia reported that NATO and Japan plan to upgrade their levels of cooperation. It added that the office was due to open next year and would enable&nbsp;discussions with NATO's security partners, such as South Korea, Australia and New Zealand, with geopolitical challenges from China and Russia in mind.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-checkmating-china-in-indo-pacific-us-led-alliance-to-open-tokyo-office-588627"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;NATO checkmating China in Indo-Pacific? US-led alliance to open Tokyo office</strong></a></p>

<p>The&nbsp;developments come against the backdrop of NATO chief&nbsp;Jens Stoltenberg visiting the country in January and pledging to&nbsp;strengthen ties in the face of "historic" security challenges.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even then, Beijing said high vigilance; was needed as the US-led military alliance continues its "eastward expansion".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Japan has no plans to become a NATO member, even though the military alliance was planning a liaison office in Tokyo, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Wednesday Kishida was responding to questions after Japan's ambassador to the US Koji Tomita, earlier this month said Tokyo and NATO were working towards opening an office - the first in Asia, to facilitate consultations in the region.

Japan has no plans to become a NATO member, even though the military alliance was planning a liaison office in Tokyo, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Wednesday Kishida was responding to questions after Japan's ambassador to the US Koji Tomita, earlier this month said Tokyo and NATO were working towards opening an office - the first in Asia, to facilitate consultations in the region. "I am not aware of any decision made at NATO regarding the establishment of the office," Kishida told a Wednesday parliament session. China reacts sharply After Kishida's statement not ruling out the possibility of opening a NATO office, China reacted sternly. Beijing said Asia-Pacific does not welcome NATO's plan. "We want to say that the Asia-Pacific does not welcome group confrontation, does not welcome military confrontation," said Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning. Mao warned that Japan should be "extra cautious on the issue of military security" given its "history of aggression". Beijing continues to refer to the maritime regions east of the Arabian Sea in the Indian Ocean as Asia-Pacific, despite the entire world having moved on to the accurate and factual lexicon - the Indo-Pacific, which refers to India's centrality in the region. ALSO WATCH | NATO to strengthen partnership with Japan amid the ongoing Ukraine war × What did the Japanese ambassador say? Earlier this month, Tomita, at an event hosted by the National Press Club in Washington said Japan and NATO were working in the direction of opening the liaison office. "The point you mentioned is one of the things that we are working on to strengthen our partnership. But I really haven't heard any final confirmation of that, but we are working in that direction," said Tomita, when quizzed about the Nikkei Asia report. Nikkei Asia reported that NATO and Japan plan to upgrade their levels of cooperation. It added that the office was due to open next year and would enable discussions with NATO's security partners, such as South Korea, Australia and New Zealand, with geopolitical challenges from China and Russia in mind. ALSO READ | NATO checkmating China in Indo-Pacific? US-led alliance to open Tokyo office The developments come against the backdrop of NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg visiting the country in January and pledging to strengthen ties in the face of "historic" security challenges. Even then, Beijing said high vigilance; was needed as the US-led military alliance continues its "eastward expansion". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Japan won't join NATO, says Kishida, acknowledging alliance wants to open office in Tokyo

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: US journalist detained in Russia for espionage, Russia intercepts US jets over Baltic Sea, NATO Chief defends NATO training Ukraine pilots on F-16 fighter jets, Russia reports Ukrainian attackers near Belgorod.

US journalist detained in Russia for espionage | Russia intercepts US jets | WION Speed News

The transfer of F-16s to Ukraine stirs worldwide debate

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<p>Days after US President Joe Biden endorsed training programmes for Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets, Russia said the transfer would raise questions over NATO's involvement in the conflict. Russia's Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov questioned the military alliance on what would happen if American soldiers took off from NATO&nbsp;airfields.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There is no infrastructure for the operation of the F-16 in Ukraine and the needed number of pilots and maintenance personnel is not there either,” said Antonov in remarks published on the embassy's Telegram channel.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What will happen if the American fighters take off from NATO airfields, controlled by foreign 'volunteers'?" he questioned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is not the first instance when Moscow has raised questions over the involvement of the multi-role fighter aircraft. On Sunday, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko responding to questions warned the West that providing Kyiv with F-16 fighter jets would carry ‘colossal risks’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We see that Western countries are still adhering to the escalation scenario. It involves colossal risks for themselves," said Grushko.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In any case, this will be taken into account in all our plans, and we have all the necessary means to achieve the goals we have set.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-west-supplying-f-16-jets-to-ukraine-would-carry-colossal-risks-594646" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Russia says West's supply of F-16 jets to Ukraine would carry ‘colossal risks’</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Kyiv wants the F-16 desperately</strong></h2>

<p>Zelensky has been pushing the Western allies to supply the F-16 jets for months now. The Ukrainian leader discussed the proposition yet again during his appearance at the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan.</p>

<p>After much back-and-forth, the White House on Sunday approved a new $375 million military aid for Ukraine. The pledge came after Biden agreed to allow training on F-16 fighter jets, laying the groundwork for their eventual transfer to Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-focuses-on-upping-its-air-defence-systems-594853"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine focuses on upping its air defence systems</strong></a></p>

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<p>However, Biden said Zelensky had given 'flat assurances' to him that the F-16 fighter jets will not be used to attack Russian territory.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have a flat assurance from Zelensky that they will not use it to go on and move onto Russian geographic territory, but wherever Russian troops are within Ukraine and the area, they would be able to do that," Biden told reporters on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyiv is in desperate need of more arms and advanced jets, especially after Moscow's Wagner private military unit claimed it had finally managed to take full control of the ruined eastern city of Bakhmut after months of vicious fighting.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Days after US President Joe Biden endorsed training programmes for Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets, Russia said the transfer would raise questions over NATO's involvement in the conflict.

Days after US President Joe Biden endorsed training programmes for Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets, Russia said the transfer would raise questions over NATO's involvement in the conflict. Russia's Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov questioned the military alliance on what would happen if American soldiers took off from NATO airfields. “There is no infrastructure for the operation of the F-16 in Ukraine and the needed number of pilots and maintenance personnel is not there either,” said Antonov in remarks published on the embassy's Telegram channel. "What will happen if the American fighters take off from NATO airfields, controlled by foreign 'volunteers'?" he questioned. This is not the first instance when Moscow has raised questions over the involvement of the multi-role fighter aircraft. On Sunday, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko responding to questions warned the West that providing Kyiv with F-16 fighter jets would carry ‘colossal risks’. “We see that Western countries are still adhering to the escalation scenario. It involves colossal risks for themselves," said Grushko. “In any case, this will be taken into account in all our plans, and we have all the necessary means to achieve the goals we have set.” ALSO READ | Russia says West's supply of F-16 jets to Ukraine would carry ‘colossal risks’ Kyiv wants the F-16 desperately Zelensky has been pushing the Western allies to supply the F-16 jets for months now. The Ukrainian leader discussed the proposition yet again during his appearance at the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan. After much back-and-forth, the White House on Sunday approved a new $375 million military aid for Ukraine. The pledge came after Biden agreed to allow training on F-16 fighter jets, laying the groundwork for their eventual transfer to Kyiv. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine focuses on upping its air defence systems × However, Biden said Zelensky had given 'flat assurances' to him that the F-16 fighter jets will not be used to attack Russian territory. "I have a flat assurance from Zelensky that they will not use it to go on and move onto Russian geographic territory, but wherever Russian troops are within Ukraine and the area, they would be able to do that," Biden told reporters on Sunday. Kyiv is in desperate need of more arms and advanced jets, especially after Moscow's Wagner private military unit claimed it had finally managed to take full control of the ruined eastern city of Bakhmut after months of vicious fighting. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia questions NATO involvement over F-16 transfer to Ukraine

<p>The Russian defence ministry, on Monday (May 15) said that it had scrambled a Su-27 fighter jet over the Baltic Sea after one German and one French aircraft attempted to “violate” its air space after it detected them flying towards Moscow. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian military hailed its recent advances around Bakhmut after its first successful counterattack against Russian forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Russia says it scrambled jets</strong></p>

<p>In a statement, the Russian defence ministry said that the two aircraft had attempted to “violate” its airspace. It added, “After turning the foreign military planes away from the Russian Federation state border, the Russian fighter returned safely to its airbase.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two aircraft in question were a P-3C Orion German patrol plane, and French Navy’s anti-submarine patrol aircraft Atlantique 2. However, France and Germany, confirming the incident, said their planes were conducting their regular flights as part of a NATO exercise and acted in accordance with international law.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-president-zelensky-eyes-jets-coalition-during-meeting-with-uk-pm-sunak-592677">Ukraine President Zelensky eyes 'jets coalition' during meeting with UK PM Sunak</a></strong></p>

<p>Germany said that its aircraft was on a “surveillance mission over the Baltic Sea” and “flying as per standard” towards Kaliningrad, which is a Russian exclave wedged between Poland and Lithuania. It added, “There was never any intention to enter Russian airspace, these aircraft always keep a safe distance. These flights are routine, and we don't do anything to cause a provocation.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>While France also said that their approach in the international airspace over the Baltic Sea was “professional and controlled.”</p>

<p><strong>Ukraine hails success in Bakhmut</strong></p>

<p>The Ukrainian military hailed its first successful counterattack amid the ongoing conflict against Russia but said that the situation there remains “difficult”. It also cautioned that Moscow has not changed its plan to capture the city and is sending troops to the outskirts of the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The Russians have not changed their goals. They are sending assault troops to the outskirts of Bakhmut,” said Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The advance of our troops along the Bakhmut direction is the first success of offensive actions in the defence of Bakhmut,” said Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander of Ground Forces, on messaging app Telegram. He added, “The last few days have shown that we can move forward and destroy the enemy even in such extremely difficult conditions.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-kyivs-forces-retake-key-territory-near-bakhmut-592348">Russia-Ukraine War: Kyiv's forces retake key territory near Bakhmut</a></strong></p>

<p>This comes as the Ukrainian military said last week it had started to push Russian forces back in and around Bakhmut which has witnessed some of the bloodiest battles on the frontlines. Furthermore, Russia later acknowledged that its forces had fallen back from the north of the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Russia claims downing UK storm shadow missile</strong></p>

<p>The Russian defence ministry for the first time also claimed to have downed a long-range Storm Shadow missile fired by Ukrainian forces which they have procured from the United Kingdom. “Air defence systems intercepted seven HARM anti-radar missiles, one Storm Shadow long-range cruise missile,” as well as 10 projectiles fired by HIMARS, said Russian defence ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov during a press briefing as per AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Russian official, teen among seven others injured after blast in Russia-controlled Luhansk</strong></p>

<p>According to the head of the Russian-backed head of the Luhansk People’s Republic (LNR), at least seven people including a Russian-installed senior official and a teenager were wounded after an explosion took place at the centre of the Russian-controlled Luhansk in eastern Ukraine, on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-iran-and-russia-expanding-their-unprecedented-defence-partnership-592729">US says Iran and Russia expanding their 'unprecedented defence' partnership</a></strong></p>

<p>“As a result of an explosion in the center of Luhansk, seven people were injured,” said Leonid Pasechnik, the head of LNR, on his social media. He also said how the head of the local Interior Ministry, Igor Kornet, the 17-year-old teenager, and four others were in a “serious condition.” Preliminary information suggested that the blast took place during rush hour.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WHO announces closure of Moscow office over the conflict&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The World Health Organization’s European office said that they are shutting a specialised WHO office in Moscow and moving its functions to Denmark. This comes after a meeting held on Monday which took place when a group of 30 member states requested a special session back in April.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Office for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases,” in Moscow with its function will be relocated to Denmark, no later than January 1, 2024, said the health body. The letter sent in April which sought the meeting also noted that the “immediate and long-term health impacts in Ukraine and beyond” due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine remain a “matter of utmost concern”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
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The Russian defence ministry, on Monday (May 15) said that it had scrambled a Su-27 fighter jet over the Baltic Sea after one German and one French aircraft attempted to “violate” its air space after it detected them flying towards Moscow.

The Russian defence ministry, on Monday (May 15) said that it had scrambled a Su-27 fighter jet over the Baltic Sea after one German and one French aircraft attempted to “violate” its air space after it detected them flying towards Moscow. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian military hailed its recent advances around Bakhmut after its first successful counterattack against Russian forces. Russia says it scrambled jets In a statement, the Russian defence ministry said that the two aircraft had attempted to “violate” its airspace. It added, “After turning the foreign military planes away from the Russian Federation state border, the Russian fighter returned safely to its airbase.” The two aircraft in question were a P-3C Orion German patrol plane, and French Navy’s anti-submarine patrol aircraft Atlantique 2. However, France and Germany, confirming the incident, said their planes were conducting their regular flights as part of a NATO exercise and acted in accordance with international law. ALSO READ | Ukraine President Zelensky eyes 'jets coalition' during meeting with UK PM Sunak Germany said that its aircraft was on a “surveillance mission over the Baltic Sea” and “flying as per standard” towards Kaliningrad, which is a Russian exclave wedged between Poland and Lithuania. It added, “There was never any intention to enter Russian airspace, these aircraft always keep a safe distance. These flights are routine, and we don't do anything to cause a provocation.” While France also said that their approach in the international airspace over the Baltic Sea was “professional and controlled.” Ukraine hails success in Bakhmut The Ukrainian military hailed its first successful counterattack amid the ongoing conflict against Russia but said that the situation there remains “difficult”. It also cautioned that Moscow has not changed its plan to capture the city and is sending troops to the outskirts of the city. “The Russians have not changed their goals. They are sending assault troops to the outskirts of Bakhmut,” said Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar. “The advance of our troops along the Bakhmut direction is the first success of offensive actions in the defence of Bakhmut,” said Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander of Ground Forces, on messaging app Telegram. He added, “The last few days have shown that we can move forward and destroy the enemy even in such extremely difficult conditions.” ALSO WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Kyiv's forces retake key territory near Bakhmut This comes as the Ukrainian military said last week it had started to push Russian forces back in and around Bakhmut which has witnessed some of the bloodiest battles on the frontlines. Furthermore, Russia later acknowledged that its forces had fallen back from the north of the city. Russia claims downing UK storm shadow missile The Russian defence ministry for the first time also claimed to have downed a long-range Storm Shadow missile fired by Ukrainian forces which they have procured from the United Kingdom. “Air defence systems intercepted seven HARM anti-radar missiles, one Storm Shadow long-range cruise missile,” as well as 10 projectiles fired by HIMARS, said Russian defence ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov during a press briefing as per AFP. Russian official, teen among seven others injured after blast in Russia-controlled Luhansk According to the head of the Russian-backed head of the Luhansk People’s Republic (LNR), at least seven people including a Russian-installed senior official and a teenager were wounded after an explosion took place at the centre of the Russian-controlled Luhansk in eastern Ukraine, on Monday. ALSO READ | US says Iran and Russia expanding their 'unprecedented defence' partnership “As a result of an explosion in the center of Luhansk, seven people were injured,” said Leonid Pasechnik, the head of LNR, on his social media. He also said how the head of the local Interior Ministry, Igor Kornet, the 17-year-old teenager, and four others were in a “serious condition.” Preliminary information suggested that the blast took place during rush hour. WHO announces closure of Moscow office over the conflict The World Health Organization’s European office said that they are shutting a specialised WHO office in Moscow and moving its functions to Denmark. This comes after a meeting held on Monday which took place when a group of 30 member states requested a special session back in April. “Office for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases,” in Moscow with its function will be relocated to Denmark, no later than January 1, 2024, said the health body. The letter sent in April which sought the meeting also noted that the “immediate and long-term health impacts in Ukraine and beyond” due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine remain a “matter of utmost concern”. (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 intercepts NATO jets over Baltic Sea; Ukraine hails first offensive success in Bakhmut

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said he expects allies to agree on a multi-year program to help Ukraine move towards NATO military standards at a July summit in Vilnius.

NATO Chief: Expect deal to help Ukraine reach alliance standards

Russia Defence Ministry reports that it has sent an SU-27 fighter jet over the Baltic Sea on Monday to intercept two aircrafts, one each from France and Germany, detected in the Russian airspace. On the other hand, France and Germany claim that the planes were conducting regular flights as part of a NATO exercise without any malicious intentions.

Russia scrambles fighter jet over Baltic Sea as France & Germany conducts NATO patrols

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