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.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian presidential office, on Monday (February 13), said that the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is witnessing fierce battle as Russian forces continue heavy shelling and infantry attacks. At least five civilians have been killed while several others have been wounded in the last 24 hours across Ukraine, they added. Meanwhile, speaking to reporters in Brussels, the NATO chief while urging Kyiv’s allies in the West to ramp up military support for the conflict-torn country said that Russia’s so-called spring offensive might already have begun.&nbsp;

According to Ukrainian military officials, positions in Bakhmut have been fortified with only those with a military role being allowed inside the city in eastern Ukraine, reported Reuters, and any civilians who still want to leave the city would have to brave the incoming fire. They have also reported Russian shelling along the frontlines and bombardment of at least 16 settlements near Bakhmut.&nbsp;

Additionally, the deputy commander of Ukraine's Svoboda battalion, told Reuters that “the city, the city's suburbs, the entire perimeter, and essentially the entire Bakhmut direction and Kostyantynivka are under crazy, chaotic shelling”. He added that while there is no fighting in the city centre, the forces are prepared for any assault.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-clears-final-military-hurdle-to-set-up-a-naval-base-on-red-sea-561368">Russia clears final 'military' hurdle to set up a naval base on Red Sea</a> &nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian presidential office has also called the situation in the city’s northern suburb of Paraskoviivka “difficult” as it endures intense shelling, while the nearby town of Vuhledar is also under heavy bombardment. This comes as the eastern Ukrainian city is said to be an important objective for Russian President Vladimir Putin as its capture would allow Moscow to establish a strong hold over the Donetsk region after facing months of setbacks.&nbsp;

In the past 24 hours, Russia has shelled dozens of cities and villages in Donetsk which also includes Druzhkivka where a missile hit a hospital and Pokrovsk where constant shelling damaged at least seven houses and a kindergarten, said a report by the Associated Press. Additionally, Donetsk Governor Pavlo Kyrylenko said that the Russian shelling has intensified as they “accumulate more forces for an attack on peaceful cities”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-chief-stoltenberg-plans-to-step-down-in-october-spokesperson-561190">NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg plans to step down in October, not keen for fourth term: Spokesperson</a>

On the other hand, Ukrainian region Luhansk’s Governor Serhii Haidai, in a TV interview said that while Moscow’s troops have pulled back after days of intense fighting near the key city of Kreminna they are not “running out of steam”. The Dnipropetrovsk region also witnessed shelling where one person was killed and two others were injured in the city of Nikopol, as per media reports.&nbsp;

NATO chief’s address in Brussels 
 
Addressing reporters, on Monday, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said, “The reality is we have seen the start (of a Russian offensive) already”. This comes as many have feared a massive offensive by Moscow as it nears the one-year anniversary of its “special military operation” in Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/f-16-fighter-jets-should-be-given-to-ukraine-only-after-consensus-poland-561225">F-16 fighter jets should be given to Ukraine only after consensus: Poland</a>

The NATO chief also said how this “highlights the importance of timing. It’s urgent to provide Ukraine with more weapons” and that Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown “no sign whatsoever” of “preparing for peace”. He added, “President Putin does now - is to send thousands and thousands more troops, accepting a very high rate of casualty.” Therefore, he believes that arming Ukraine more quickly could save lives and bring a quicker end to the conflict.

“The current rate of Ukraine’s ammunition expenditure is many times higher than our current rate of production”, said Stoltenberg adding that it will increase targets for stockpiling ammunition. This also comes as Ukraine has sought fighter jets and long-range missiles from its western allies to counter-offensive, which the NATO chief said would be discussed but that Kyiv needs support on the ground.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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>.

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. The Ukrainian presidential office, on Monday (February 13), said that the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is witnessing fierce battle as Russian forces continue heavy shelling and infantry attacks. At least five civilians have been killed while several others have been wounded in the last 24 hours across Ukraine, they added. Meanwhile, speaking to reporters in Brussels, the NATO chief while urging Kyiv’s allies in the West to ramp up military support for the conflict-torn country said that Russia’s so-called spring offensive might already have begun. According to Ukrainian military officials, positions in Bakhmut have been fortified with only those with a military role being allowed inside the city in eastern Ukraine, reported Reuters, and any civilians who still want to leave the city would have to brave the incoming fire. They have also reported Russian shelling along the frontlines and bombardment of at least 16 settlements near Bakhmut. Additionally, the deputy commander of Ukraine's Svoboda battalion, told Reuters that “the city, the city's suburbs, the entire perimeter, and essentially the entire Bakhmut direction and Kostyantynivka are under crazy, chaotic shelling”. He added that while there is no fighting in the city centre, the forces are prepared for any assault. ALSO READ | Russia clears final 'military' hurdle to set up a naval base on Red Sea Meanwhile, the Ukrainian presidential office has also called the situation in the city’s northern suburb of Paraskoviivka “difficult” as it endures intense shelling, while the nearby town of Vuhledar is also under heavy bombardment. This comes as the eastern Ukrainian city is said to be an important objective for Russian President Vladimir Putin as its capture would allow Moscow to establish a strong hold over the Donetsk region after facing months of setbacks. In the past 24 hours, Russia has shelled dozens of cities and villages in Donetsk which also includes Druzhkivka where a missile hit a hospital and Pokrovsk where constant shelling damaged at least seven houses and a kindergarten, said a report by the Associated Press. Additionally, Donetsk Governor Pavlo Kyrylenko said that the Russian shelling has intensified as they “accumulate more forces for an attack on peaceful cities”. ALSO READ | NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg plans to step down in October, not keen for fourth term: Spokesperson On the other hand, Ukrainian region Luhansk’s Governor Serhii Haidai, in a TV interview said that while Moscow’s troops have pulled back after days of intense fighting near the key city of Kreminna they are not “running out of steam”. The Dnipropetrovsk region also witnessed shelling where one person was killed and two others were injured in the city of Nikopol, as per media reports. NATO chief’s address in Brussels Addressing reporters, on Monday, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said, “The reality is we have seen the start (of a Russian offensive) already”. This comes as many have feared a massive offensive by Moscow as it nears the one-year anniversary of its “special military operation” in Ukraine. ALSO READ | F-16 fighter jets should be given to Ukraine only after consensus: Poland The NATO chief also said how this “highlights the importance of timing. It’s urgent to provide Ukraine with more weapons” and that Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown “no sign whatsoever” of “preparing for peace”. He added, “President Putin does now - is to send thousands and thousands more troops, accepting a very high rate of casualty.” Therefore, he believes that arming Ukraine more quickly could save lives and bring a quicker end to the conflict. “The current rate of Ukraine’s ammunition expenditure is many times higher than our current rate of production”, said Stoltenberg adding that it will increase targets for stockpiling ammunition. This also comes as Ukraine has sought fighter jets and long-range missiles from its western allies to counter-offensive, which the NATO chief said would be discussed but that Kyiv needs support on the ground. (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 launches attack on Ukraine’s Bakhmut; signs of new offensive by Moscow, says NATO chief

Russia has begun a new offense in the Eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. Ukrainian military are now bracing for new ground attacks. As the anniversary of invasion of Ukraine nears, Russian forces pounded the city of Bakhmut on Monday.

War in Ukraine: NATO looks at new start of offence in Bakhmut

In the backdrop of Taiwan tension, China is mulling tripling its nuclear warheads arsenal to 900 by 2035, according to Japan's Kyodo News. Citing Chinese sources, the publication stated that the plans formulated by the People's Liberation Army had been approved by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

In the backdrop of Taiwan tension, China is mulling tripling its nuclear warheads arsenal to 900 by 2035, according to Japan's Kyodo News. Citing Chinese sources, the publication stated that the plans formulated by the People's Liberation Army had been approved by Chinese President Xi Jinping. The current plan is to raise the number of nuclear warheads to 550 by 2027, the centenary of the foundation of the armed forces, and later take it to 900 by 2035. Beijing has closely monitored the ongoing situation in Russia and reflected that Moscow's strong nuclear deterrence policy had prevented the likes of the US or NATO to open up a war front. Politburo understands that the lethal capabilities of nuclear weapons can be a good bargaining chip, if and when it goes for a Taiwan invasion. Notably, this is not the first instance when reports of China attempting to expand its nuclear arsenal have swirled around. Last year, a Pentagon report suggested that China was planning to take its nuclear warhead stockpile to 1,500. WATCH | World at War | Episode 32: Why is China building 1500 nuclear warheads by 2035? × The report stated that "the Department of Defense estimates that (China's) operational nuclear warheads stockpile has surpassed 400." By 2035, China "will likely field a stockpile of about 1,500 warheads" if its nuclear development pace is maintained. "They've got a rapid buildup that is kind of too substantial to keep under wraps. It does raise questions about whether they are kind of shifting away from a strategy that was premised on what they referred to as a lean and effective deterrent," a US military official was quoted as saying by Reuters. Read more: China's nukes to more than triple to 1,500 warheads by 2035: Pentagon Notably, Russia currently leads the chart in the number of nuclear warheads in possession. It has 5,977 warheads while the US comes behind at second with 5,428 warheads, according to a report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China to triple its nuclear warheads by 2035: Report

Long-serving North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO)&nbsp;chief Jens Stoltenberg does not intend to seek a fourth term renewal and expects to be replaced in October, according to a statement released by the military alliance on Sunday (February 12).&nbsp;"The mandate of Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has been extended three times and he has served for a total of almost nine years," spokesperson&nbsp;Oana Lungescu said.&nbsp;

"The Secretary General's term comes to an end in October of this year and he has no intention to seek another extension of his mandate," she added.

On October 1, 2014, the 63-year-old former Norwegian <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-delhi-expressway-toll-price-full-route-travel-time-toll-rates-speed-limit-all-you-need-to-know-561158">prime minister</a> assumed his position at NATO's headquarters in Brussels. Since then, he has steered the Western alliance through various international crises.

In August 2021, just before Kabul fell to the&nbsp;Taliban forces, who restored their Islamist authority, the remaining NATO and US soldiers departed Afghanistan under his administration.

Also watch |&nbsp;The West Asia Post | Sweden's NATO entry: A poll issue in Turkiye

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-west-asia-post-swedens-nato-entry-a-poll-issue-in-turkiye-559601/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Additionally, Stoltenberg handled NATO's reaction to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-russian-missiles-entered-romanian-airspace-romania-denies-560667">Russia's invasion of Ukraine</a> in February 2022 and the ongoing conflict, which is the longest on European territory since the 1940s.

In particular, he served as a link between the European allies and Washington during the administration of former US president Donald Trump, a staunch critic of NATO.

Stoltenberg's term may be renewed until a meeting to celebrate the alliance's 75th anniversary next year, according to diplomats from several NATO allies.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Long-serving North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) chief Jens Stoltenberg does not intend to seek a fourth term renewal and expects to be replaced in October, according to a statement released by the military alliance on Sunday (February 12).

Long-serving North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) chief Jens Stoltenberg does not intend to seek a fourth term renewal and expects to be replaced in October, according to a statement released by the military alliance on Sunday (February 12). "The mandate of Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has been extended three times and he has served for a total of almost nine years," spokesperson Oana Lungescu said. "The Secretary General's term comes to an end in October of this year and he has no intention to seek another extension of his mandate," she added. On October 1, 2014, the 63-year-old former Norwegian prime minister assumed his position at NATO's headquarters in Brussels. Since then, he has steered the Western alliance through various international crises. In August 2021, just before Kabul fell to the Taliban forces, who restored their Islamist authority, the remaining NATO and US soldiers departed Afghanistan under his administration. Also watch | The West Asia Post | Sweden's NATO entry: A poll issue in Turkiye Additionally, Stoltenberg handled NATO's reaction to Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and the ongoing conflict, which is the longest on European territory since the 1940s. In particular, he served as a link between the European allies and Washington during the administration of former US president Donald Trump, a staunch critic of NATO. Stoltenberg's term may be renewed until a meeting to celebrate the alliance's 75th anniversary next year, according to diplomats from several NATO allies. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg plans to step down in October, not keen for fourth term: Spokesperson

It is election season in Turkiye and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is leaving no stone unturned to guarantee his 3rd decade in office. While the cost of living crisis tops the voter concerns, he is counting on foreign policy to sweep this poll. Ghadi Francis brings you the full report on this week's The West Asia Post only on WION.

The West Asia Post | Sweden's NATO entry: A poll issue in Turkiye

Ukraine is going all out to pressure the West on long-range being sent in by NATO allies. The new US aid package for Kyiv includes a rocket repelled, precision bomb, rocket launchers and small-diameter bombs that can fly up to 150 kms.

Russia Ukraine War: Kyiv pushing West for fighter jets, says 'Won't target Russian territory'

Is sympathy for Ukraine waning? Is NATO growing tired of Ukraine's demands? U.S. has refused to send F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. Germany wants the West to focus on domestic issues. Why is this happening? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Is NATO tired of Ukraine's demands?

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg met with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to discuss measures for boosting ties with NATO partners. Stoltenberg has expressed concerns over China's rising dominance in the region.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg visits Japan, warns about China

NATO Chief Jens Stoltenberg has called on Tokyo to remain firm in the face of security threats posed by China, North Korea and Russia's War in Ukraine. Stoltenberg met Japanese PM Fumio Kishida in Tokyo, on his trip to Asia.

NATO Secretary General in Japan

NATO will continue to strengthen its partnership with Japan amid the ongoing Ukraine war, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said on Tuesday (January 31) during a visit to Japan, where he will meet with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

NATO to strengthen partnership with Japan amid the ongoing Ukraine war

Sweden's NATO membership bid, which a couple of months ago seemed slightly possible has now gone completely haywire.&nbsp;Condemning Sweden's refusal to extradite people allegedly tied to Kurdish militant groups, Türkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has suggested that Ankara may agree to Finland joining Nato, but will not agree to Sweden's membership of the bloc. "If you absolutely want to join Nato, you will return these terrorists to us," said Erdogan in his bold remarks.

This poses another major roadblock for Sweden as Türkiye holds the power to influence NATO's decisions and without its nod, Stockholm's bid will continue to remain in a stalemate.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-a-missile-it-would-only-take-a-minute-boris-johnson-reveals-he-got-threats-from-putin-557118">'With a missile, it would only take a minute' Boris Johnson reveals he got threats from Putin</a>

During his speech, Erdogan said Türkiye might now "give a different response concerning Finland," but added that "Sweden will be shocked". Nordic countries, Sweden and Finland, applied for NATO membership last year as Russia rolled its tanks inside Ukrainian territory.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-bypolls-for-33-vacant-national-assembly-seats-in-march-imran-to-contest-on-all-557108">Pakistan bypolls for 33 vacant National Assembly seats in March, Imran to contest on all</a>

Türkiye&nbsp;has demanded from Sweden and it seems like without these demands being met, common ground is hard to come by. "We gave Sweden a list of 120 persons and told them to extradite those terrorists in their country," said Erdogan. "If you don't extradite them, then sorry about that."

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-nadhim-zahawi-sacked-as-conservative-party-chief-557134">UK: Nadhim Zahawi sacked as Conservative party chief</a>

Though Finland also has Kurds, Sweden's Kurdish diaspora is larger. This is playing a significant factor in Nato membership talks which Türkiye has put in a deadlock presently.&nbsp;Things only got worse with the latest Turkish protests after Rasmus Paludan, a politician from the Danish far-right Stram Kurs party, burnt a copy of the Quran outside the Turkish embassy in Stockholm.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

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>.

Sweden's NATO membership bid, which a couple of months ago seemed slightly possible has now gone completely haywire. Condemning Sweden's refusal to extradite people allegedly tied to Kurdish militant groups, Türkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has suggested that Ankara may agree to Finland joining Nato, but will not agree to Sweden's membership of the bloc.

Sweden's NATO membership bid, which a couple of months ago seemed slightly possible has now gone completely haywire. Condemning Sweden's refusal to extradite people allegedly tied to Kurdish militant groups, Türkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has suggested that Ankara may agree to Finland joining Nato, but will not agree to Sweden's membership of the bloc. "If you absolutely want to join Nato, you will return these terrorists to us," said Erdogan in his bold remarks. This poses another major roadblock for Sweden as Türkiye holds the power to influence NATO's decisions and without its nod, Stockholm's bid will continue to remain in a stalemate. Also Read | 'With a missile, it would only take a minute' Boris Johnson reveals he got threats from Putin During his speech, Erdogan said Türkiye might now "give a different response concerning Finland," but added that "Sweden will be shocked". Nordic countries, Sweden and Finland, applied for NATO membership last year as Russia rolled its tanks inside Ukrainian territory. Also Read | Pakistan bypolls for 33 vacant National Assembly seats in March, Imran to contest on all Türkiye has demanded from Sweden and it seems like without these demands being met, common ground is hard to come by. "We gave Sweden a list of 120 persons and told them to extradite those terrorists in their country," said Erdogan. "If you don't extradite them, then sorry about that." Watch | UK: Nadhim Zahawi sacked as Conservative party chief Though Finland also has Kurds, Sweden's Kurdish diaspora is larger. This is playing a significant factor in Nato membership talks which Türkiye has put in a deadlock presently. Things only got worse with the latest Turkish protests after Rasmus Paludan, a politician from the Danish far-right Stram Kurs party, burnt a copy of the Quran outside the Turkish embassy in Stockholm. 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.

Türkiye sways towards Finland in its NATO membership bid, but says 'Sweden will be shocked'

The West has often raised concerns about North Korea's nuclear weapons programme and its powerful missile tests and in the latest remarks, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has called it "reckless".&nbsp;

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg told South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin on Sunday (January 29) that they are concerned about North Korea's missile tests.&nbsp;

As quoted by news agencies, Stoltenberg said, "We are of course concerned about the reckless missile tests and the nuclear programmes of North Korea."&nbsp;

Stoltenberg also weighed in on the Russia-Ukraine war, which caused food and fuel crises after it started last year in February. He noted that the war in Ukraine has ramifications for Asia.&nbsp;

He further claimed that the West is aware that North Korea is providing military support to the Russian war efforts with rockets and missiles.&nbsp;

Stoltenberg is currently on a multi-nation visit to Asian nations. He arrived in South Korea earlier on Sunday, the first stop on a trip. He will also visit Japan.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Buenos Aires, meets Argentina's President&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/german-chancellor-olaf-scholz-in-buenos-aires-meets-argentinas-president-557018/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>North Korea denies claims that it provided Russia with arms</h2>

Meanwhile, North Korea has denied allegations that it providing arms to Moscow. This comes after the United States said that Pyongyang supplied rockets and missiles to Russia's private military group Wagner.&nbsp;

Official Korean Central News Agency reported that a senior official rejected the accusations. In a statement, the official said that the US would face a "really undesirable result" if it persisted in spreading the "self-made rumour".&nbsp;

Kwon Jong Gun, director general of the Department of US Affairs, said: "Trying to tarnish the image of (North Korea) by fabricating a non-existent thing is a grave provocation that can never be allowed and that cannot but trigger its reaction."&nbsp;

He said that it is "a foolish attempt" to justify its offer of weapons to Ukraine".

NATO's claims are not new, previously, the US accused North Korea.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, America even designated the Wagner group as a "transnational criminal organisation".&nbsp;The US underlined the group's weapons dealings with North Korea and said that it is in violation of UN Security Council resolutions.&nbsp;

AFP reported that the national security spokesman John Kirby said the White House showed US intelligence photographs of Russian rail cars entering North Korea, picking up a load of infantry rockets and missiles, and returning to Russia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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>.

The West has often raised concerns about North Korea's nuclear weapons programme and its powerful missile tests and in the latest remarks, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has called it "reckless".

The West has often raised concerns about North Korea's nuclear weapons programme and its powerful missile tests and in the latest remarks, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has called it "reckless". NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg told South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin on Sunday (January 29) that they are concerned about North Korea's missile tests. As quoted by news agencies, Stoltenberg said, "We are of course concerned about the reckless missile tests and the nuclear programmes of North Korea." Stoltenberg also weighed in on the Russia-Ukraine war, which caused food and fuel crises after it started last year in February. He noted that the war in Ukraine has ramifications for Asia. He further claimed that the West is aware that North Korea is providing military support to the Russian war efforts with rockets and missiles. Stoltenberg is currently on a multi-nation visit to Asian nations. He arrived in South Korea earlier on Sunday, the first stop on a trip. He will also visit Japan. WATCH | German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Buenos Aires, meets Argentina's President × North Korea denies claims that it provided Russia with arms Meanwhile, North Korea has denied allegations that it providing arms to Moscow. This comes after the United States said that Pyongyang supplied rockets and missiles to Russia's private military group Wagner. Official Korean Central News Agency reported that a senior official rejected the accusations. In a statement, the official said that the US would face a "really undesirable result" if it persisted in spreading the "self-made rumour". Kwon Jong Gun, director general of the Department of US Affairs, said: "Trying to tarnish the image of (North Korea) by fabricating a non-existent thing is a grave provocation that can never be allowed and that cannot but trigger its reaction." He said that it is "a foolish attempt" to justify its offer of weapons to Ukraine". NATO's claims are not new, previously, the US accused North Korea. Earlier this month, America even designated the Wagner group as a "transnational criminal organisation". The US underlined the group's weapons dealings with North Korea and said that it is in violation of UN Security Council resolutions. AFP reported that the national security spokesman John Kirby said the White House showed US intelligence photographs of Russian rail cars entering North Korea, picking up a load of infantry rockets and missiles, and returning to Russia. (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.

NATO's Jens Stoltenberg slams North Korea’s missile tests, calls them ‘reckless’

Turkiye strongly condemned&nbsp;the burning of Quran&nbsp;and summoned the Danish ambassador to the Turkish Foreign Ministry as it accused Denmark of endorsing a “hate crime” after Rasmus Paludan, a right-wing activist burned copies of the Muslim holy book on Friday (January 27). 
This comes after a week the leader of the Danish right-wing political party Stram Kurs or Hard Line who also holds citizenship of Sweden, staged a Quran-burning protest in Sweden.&nbsp;

As per media reports, Paludan, on Friday, burned copies of the Quran near a Copenhagen mosque and outside the Turkish embassy in Denmark. He did something similar on January 21 outside the Turkish embassy in Stockholm, Sweden which drew widespread condemnation and triggered counter-protests in Turkiye. Additionally, he vowed to do so every Friday until Sweden is admitted into NATO which requires Ankara’s approval.

Turkiye has previously blocked Sweden and neighbouring Finland’s bid to join the military alliance that the two countries have sought following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, the membership requires approval from all NATO members, including Ankara, which has indicated that it would block Sweden’s bid partially after Paludan’s stunt in Stockholm last week.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swedish-pm-kristersson-calls-burning-of-koran-deeply-disrespectful-554906">Swedish PM Kristersson calls burning of Koran ‘deeply disrespectful’</a>

The protests in Sweden also led to counter-protests in Istanbul where at least 200 people gathered outside the Swedish consulate in the city and burned Sweden’s flag in response to Paludan’s burning of the Quran.&nbsp;

In a statement, the Turkish Foreign Ministry called the Danish politician an “Islamophobic charlatan” and said, “Showing tolerance towards such heinous acts that offend the sensitivities of millions of people living in Europe threatens the practice of peaceful coexistence and provokes racist, xenophobic and anti-Muslim attacks,”&nbsp;reported Al Jazeera. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkiye-cancels-swedish-defence-minister-visit-over-planned-protest-554716">Turkiye cancels Swedish defence minister’s visit over protest planned by right-wing leader</a>

Additionally, according to Ankara’s state-run Anadolu Agency, the Danish ambassador was summoned to the Turkish foreign ministry where officials “strongly condemned the permission given for this provocative act which clearly constitutes a hate crime”. The media report also said that the ambassador was also told that “Denmark’s attitude is unacceptable”, as Turkiye expected the permission to be revoked.&nbsp;

According to a report by the&nbsp;Associated Press,&nbsp;Paludan was seen with a protective helmet and surrounded by riot police during the recent protest&nbsp;in Copenhagen which he live-streamed on Facebook and said, “This mosque has no place in Denmark”. Subsequently, Paludan was driven away in a police car.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tensions-escalate-between-turkiye-sweden-far-right-politician-burns-quran-in-stockholm-554809">Tensions escalate between Turkiye, Sweden; far-right politician burns Quran in Stockholm</a>

Later, he said, “Once he (President of Turkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan) has let Sweden into NATO, I promise that I will not burn the Quran outside the Turkish Embassy. Otherwise, I will do so every Friday at 2 pm,”&nbsp;reported the AP. Aside from the recent incidents, Ankara has also blocked Finland and Sweden’s bid to join NATO demanding a crackdown on Kurdish armed groups and others that it considers “terrorists”.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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>.

Turkiye strongly condemned the burning of Quran and summoned the Danish ambassador to the Turkish Foreign Ministry as it accused Denmark of endorsing a “hate crime” after Rasmus Paludan, a right-wing activist burned copies of the Muslim holy book on Friday (January 27).

Turkiye strongly condemned the burning of Quran and summoned the Danish ambassador to the Turkish Foreign Ministry as it accused Denmark of endorsing a “hate crime” after Rasmus Paludan, a right-wing activist burned copies of the Muslim holy book on Friday (January 27). This comes after a week the leader of the Danish right-wing political party Stram Kurs or Hard Line who also holds citizenship of Sweden, staged a Quran-burning protest in Sweden. As per media reports, Paludan, on Friday, burned copies of the Quran near a Copenhagen mosque and outside the Turkish embassy in Denmark. He did something similar on January 21 outside the Turkish embassy in Stockholm, Sweden which drew widespread condemnation and triggered counter-protests in Turkiye. Additionally, he vowed to do so every Friday until Sweden is admitted into NATO which requires Ankara’s approval. Turkiye has previously blocked Sweden and neighbouring Finland’s bid to join the military alliance that the two countries have sought following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, the membership requires approval from all NATO members, including Ankara, which has indicated that it would block Sweden’s bid partially after Paludan’s stunt in Stockholm last week. ALSO READ | Swedish PM Kristersson calls burning of Koran ‘deeply disrespectful’ The protests in Sweden also led to counter-protests in Istanbul where at least 200 people gathered outside the Swedish consulate in the city and burned Sweden’s flag in response to Paludan’s burning of the Quran. In a statement, the Turkish Foreign Ministry called the Danish politician an “Islamophobic charlatan” and said, “Showing tolerance towards such heinous acts that offend the sensitivities of millions of people living in Europe threatens the practice of peaceful coexistence and provokes racist, xenophobic and anti-Muslim attacks,” reported Al Jazeera. ALSO READ | Turkiye cancels Swedish defence minister’s visit over protest planned by right-wing leader Additionally, according to Ankara’s state-run Anadolu Agency, the Danish ambassador was summoned to the Turkish foreign ministry where officials “strongly condemned the permission given for this provocative act which clearly constitutes a hate crime”. The media report also said that the ambassador was also told that “Denmark’s attitude is unacceptable”, as Turkiye expected the permission to be revoked. According to a report by the Associated Press, Paludan was seen with a protective helmet and surrounded by riot police during the recent protest in Copenhagen which he live-streamed on Facebook and said, “This mosque has no place in Denmark”. Subsequently, Paludan was driven away in a police car. ALSO WATCH | Tensions escalate between Turkiye, Sweden; far-right politician burns Quran in Stockholm Later, he said, “Once he (President of Turkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan) has let Sweden into NATO, I promise that I will not burn the Quran outside the Turkish Embassy. Otherwise, I will do so every Friday at 2 pm,” reported the AP. Aside from the recent incidents, Ankara has also blocked Finland and Sweden’s bid to join NATO demanding a crackdown on Kurdish armed groups and others that it considers “terrorists”. (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.

Turkiye summons Danish ambassador after Quran-burning protest outside its embassy, mosque

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.

The dynamics of the 11-month-old Russia-Ukraine war appear to be shifting gradually from its initial state and is taking an indirect&nbsp;form of&nbsp;a global conflict.&nbsp;A European Union official however went ahead to claim that Moscow has taken the war to a different level from the initial 'special operation' and is now at "war against NATO and the West".&nbsp;

The remarks were made after the United States and Germany agreed to send powerful tanks to help Ukraine in its fight against Russia after much debate. Besides, the West has also provided Kyiv with a fresh package of advanced and sophisticated weapons.&nbsp;

Stefano Sannino, who is the secretary general of the European Union's European External Action Service, said that Russia has taken the war to "a different stage" by&nbsp;its&nbsp;continuous, indiscriminate&nbsp;attacks on civilian target in&nbsp;Ukraine. Sannino insinuated that Russia&nbsp;has apparently triggered Germany and the United States to send advanced tanks to Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-claims-chinese-firm-helped-russias-wagner-group-in-ukraine-places-sanctions-556469">US claims Chinese firm helped Russia's Wagner group in Ukraine, places sanctions</a>&nbsp;

As quoted by Radio Free Europe, Sannino told reporters in Tokyo that Putin had "moved from the concept of a special operation to a concept now of a war against NATO and the West." Sannino alleged that Moscow is engaging in "indiscriminate attacks" on civilians&nbsp;and cities and is no longer targeting just military positions.&nbsp;

The EU official backed the proposed supply of tanks to Ukraine saying that they will be used for a counter-offensive&nbsp;and are not intended for an attack.&nbsp;

"I think that this latest development in terms of arms&nbsp;supply is just an evolution of the situation and of the way Russia started moving the war into a different stage," he said.&nbsp;<meta name="uuid" content="uuidzw6VMbfHw8PE" /><meta charset="utf-8" />

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia: Cemetery for Wagner mercenaries; 200 graves in Southwestern Russia&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-cemetery-for-wagner-mercenaries-200-graves-in-southwestern-russia-556507/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>West to send tanks to Ukraine&nbsp;</h2>

For a very long time, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged the West to send tanks and long-range missiles to strike deep inside Russian territories.&nbsp;

The West initially hesitated to engage in direct conflict with Russia and Moscow had also warned that the supply of powerful weapons by West will be considered a provocation.&nbsp;

But, the West has finally relented to&nbsp;the demand as consensus grew among countries. Earlier this week, Germany agreed to supply 14 powerful Leopard tanks to Ukraine amid intense pressure from other European counties. Notably, the German-made Leopard 2 battle tanks are considered one of the best-performing tank models worldwide.&nbsp;

Canada said that it will also supply heavy tanks to Ukraine, with a shipment of four fully operational Leopards. Norway also said it would send Leopard 2 tanks to the war-torn nation.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden also announced that his administration will send 31 top-of-the-line M1 Abrams battle tanks to Ukraine, although delivery may not be very soon. The countries have also said that they would train Ukrainian forces for using the advanced tanks.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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>.

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. The dynamics of the 11-month-old Russia-Ukraine war appear to be shifting gradually from its initial state and is taking an indirect form of a global conflict. A European Union official however went ahead to claim that Moscow has taken the war to a different level from the initial 'special operation' and is now at "war against NATO and the West". The remarks were made after the United States and Germany agreed to send powerful tanks to help Ukraine in its fight against Russia after much debate. Besides, the West has also provided Kyiv with a fresh package of advanced and sophisticated weapons. Stefano Sannino, who is the secretary general of the European Union's European External Action Service, said that Russia has taken the war to "a different stage" by its continuous, indiscriminate attacks on civilian target in Ukraine. Sannino insinuated that Russia has apparently triggered Germany and the United States to send advanced tanks to Ukraine. ALSO READ | US claims Chinese firm helped Russia's Wagner group in Ukraine, places sanctions As quoted by Radio Free Europe, Sannino told reporters in Tokyo that Putin had "moved from the concept of a special operation to a concept now of a war against NATO and the West." Sannino alleged that Moscow is engaging in "indiscriminate attacks" on civilians and cities and is no longer targeting just military positions. The EU official backed the proposed supply of tanks to Ukraine saying that they will be used for a counter-offensive and are not intended for an attack. "I think that this latest development in terms of arms supply is just an evolution of the situation and of the way Russia started moving the war into a different stage," he said. WATCH | Russia: Cemetery for Wagner mercenaries; 200 graves in Southwestern Russia × West to send tanks to Ukraine For a very long time, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged the West to send tanks and long-range missiles to strike deep inside Russian territories. The West initially hesitated to engage in direct conflict with Russia and Moscow had also warned that the supply of powerful weapons by West will be considered a provocation. But, the West has finally relented to the demand as consensus grew among countries. Earlier this week, Germany agreed to supply 14 powerful Leopard tanks to Ukraine amid intense pressure from other European counties. Notably, the German-made Leopard 2 battle tanks are considered one of the best-performing tank models worldwide. Canada said that it will also supply heavy tanks to Ukraine, with a shipment of four fully operational Leopards. Norway also said it would send Leopard 2 tanks to the war-torn nation. US President Joe Biden also announced that his administration will send 31 top-of-the-line M1 Abrams battle tanks to Ukraine, although delivery may not be very soon. The countries have also said that they would train Ukrainian forces for using the advanced tanks. 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.

Ukraine war: EU official says ‘Russia has changed ‘special operation’ into war with NATO and West’

The US has reiterated its support for Sweden and Finland's NATO entry after Stockholm's recent tensions with Ankara put the accession in apparel.

Finland, Sweden's NATO future in peril; US reiterates support for the countries to join NATO

Turkish President Erdogan has threatened to block Sweden's NATO bid over the burning of Quran by a right-wing politician.

Gravitas: Erdogan threatens to block Sweden's NATO bid

The Biden administration reiterated its support for both Finland and Sweden joining NATO at the earliest opportunity. Turkiye's president said Sweden should not expect his country's support after a protest near the Turkish Embassy in Stockholm at the weekend.

US reiterates support for Sweden, Finland joining NATO

NATO hosted its first Industry Symposium on Climate Change and Capabilities, which brought together over 150 representatives from NATO Allies and industry. The participants discussed how NATO’s ambitions on climate change and security can be taken into account in the development of new military capabilities.

WION Climate Tracker: NATO hosts first industry symposium on climate change

Speaking in Berlin alongside German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, Stoltenberg called for heavier and more advanced weaponry for Ukrainian forces at a quicker pace.

Here's what NATO chief Stoltenberg said about sending weapons to Ukraine

The chance of Turkey's ratification of Sweden's NATO membership appears thin after the protests following the Quran-burning incident in the Scandinavian nation. Even as most of the NATO membership welcomed the move of Sweden and Finland's accession to NATO, Turkey has been in a diplomatic stand-off with the nations over several issues and has been demanding concessions from Sweden, one of which is the extradition of Kurds.

Sweden's bid to join NATO continues to lurk in dark. Amid this stalemate, Sweden gets another jolt as Turkey is now outraged&nbsp;after Danish activist Rasmus Paludan set Quran, the holy book of Islam, on fire outside the Turkish Embassy in Stockholm on 21 January.

On Monday, Turkish&nbsp;President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said they wouldn't support Sweden&nbsp;for NATO membership and slammed Rasmus Paludan’s Quran-burning protest, saying it was an insult to everyone, especially to Muslims.

He also criticised Swedish authorities for allowing the demonstration to take place outside the Turkish Embassy in Stockholm.

“So you will let terror organizations run wild and then expect our support for getting into NATO. That’s not happening,” Erdogan said, referring to Sweden and Finland’s accession bids for the military alliance. He said if Sweden won’t show respect to Turkey or Muslims, then “they won’t see any support from us on the NATO issue.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-captures-is-members-in-syria-helicopter-raid-554979">US military captures IS members in Syrian helicopter raid</a>

NATO membership approval by Turkey looks&nbsp;grim, and the stalemate, which continues since the Russia-Ukraine war started, seems to hold on for a further while.&nbsp;

While at one end, US continues to urge Turkey to ratify the accession of Sweden and Finland in NATO, Turkey seems relentless in its pursuit. Turkey is extremely important as a NATO member as the bloc requires unanimous approval from all existing member states to ratify any accession of other non-NATO members into it.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-investigators-find-more-classified-documents-at-president-bidens-home-in-delaware-554803">US: Investigators find six more classified documents at President Biden’s home in Delaware</a> 
&nbsp;

On January 22, while condemning Sweden for “state-supported Islamophobia”, Turkish people carried green flags in a display of their proclamation in their faith. These bitter ripples were seen in the diplomatic engagements as well as Turkey cancelled a planned visit by Swedish defence minister Pal Jonson to Ankara.&nbsp;

However, the friction was no less than a double-edged sword, as protests also erupted in Sweden where demonstrators hung the Turkish President's effigy.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-sacks-cabinet-minister-aryeh-deri-as-netanyahu-complies-with-supreme-court-order-555110">Israel sacks cabinet minister Aryeh Deri as Netanyahu complies with Supreme Court order</a>

"Burning books that are holy to many is a deeply disrespectful act. I want to express my sympathy for all Muslims who are offended by what has happened in Stockholm today,” Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said over the Quran-burning incident.&nbsp;

(With input from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

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>.

The chance of Turkey's ratification of Sweden's NATO membership appears thin after the protests following the Quran-burning incident in the Scandinavian nation. Even as most of the NATO membership welcomed the move of Sweden and Finland's accession to NATO, Turkey has been in a diplomatic stand-off with the nations over several issues and has been demanding concessions from Sweden, one of which is the extradition of Kurds.

The chance of Turkey's ratification of Sweden's NATO membership appears thin after the protests following the Quran-burning incident in the Scandinavian nation. Even as most of the NATO membership welcomed the move of Sweden and Finland's accession to NATO, Turkey has been in a diplomatic stand-off with the nations over several issues and has been demanding concessions from Sweden, one of which is the extradition of Kurds. Sweden's bid to join NATO continues to lurk in dark. Amid this stalemate, Sweden gets another jolt as Turkey is now outraged after Danish activist Rasmus Paludan set Quran, the holy book of Islam, on fire outside the Turkish Embassy in Stockholm on 21 January. On Monday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said they wouldn't support Sweden for NATO membership and slammed Rasmus Paludan’s Quran-burning protest, saying it was an insult to everyone, especially to Muslims. He also criticised Swedish authorities for allowing the demonstration to take place outside the Turkish Embassy in Stockholm. “So you will let terror organizations run wild and then expect our support for getting into NATO. That’s not happening,” Erdogan said, referring to Sweden and Finland’s accession bids for the military alliance. He said if Sweden won’t show respect to Turkey or Muslims, then “they won’t see any support from us on the NATO issue.” ALSO READ | US military captures IS members in Syrian helicopter raid NATO membership approval by Turkey looks grim, and the stalemate, which continues since the Russia-Ukraine war started, seems to hold on for a further while. While at one end, US continues to urge Turkey to ratify the accession of Sweden and Finland in NATO, Turkey seems relentless in its pursuit. Turkey is extremely important as a NATO member as the bloc requires unanimous approval from all existing member states to ratify any accession of other non-NATO members into it. ALSO READ | US: Investigators find six more classified documents at President Biden’s home in Delaware On January 22, while condemning Sweden for “state-supported Islamophobia”, Turkish people carried green flags in a display of their proclamation in their faith. These bitter ripples were seen in the diplomatic engagements as well as Turkey cancelled a planned visit by Swedish defence minister Pal Jonson to Ankara. However, the friction was no less than a double-edged sword, as protests also erupted in Sweden where demonstrators hung the Turkish President's effigy. WATCH | Israel sacks cabinet minister Aryeh Deri as Netanyahu complies with Supreme Court order "Burning books that are holy to many is a deeply disrespectful act. I want to express my sympathy for all Muslims who are offended by what has happened in Stockholm today,” Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said over the Quran-burning incident. (With input 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.

'Won't support Sweden's NATO membership', says Turkish President Erdogan

It's official, NATO is divided on the Ukraine war. The US is not sending Abrams Tanks to Ukraine. Germany has refused to supply Leopard-2 tanks & Italy has delayed arms supplies until February. Molly Gambhir asks: Will NATO abandon Ukraine?

Gravitas: It's official, NATO is split on Ukraine

Is NATO becoming tired of the Ukraine war? Germany is non-commital on providing more tanks to Ukraine. The Polish PM says the is West no longer emotionally involved in the war. Molly Gambhir asks: Has fatigue begun to set it?

Gravitas: Is NATO becoming war-weary?

The United States and Turkey have a very complex relationship both are NATO allies and Turkey is of strategic importance to Washington. But, they have disagreements on different issues including Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Turkiye Foreign Minister meets US' Antony Blinken, F-16 fighter jet deal dominates meet

The Kremlin warned of an escalation in Ukraine if the West gives the pro-Western country more weapons capable of striking Russia. The warning comes on the eve of a key donor meeting as Western countries consider sending more powerful weapons to Ukraine.

Kremlin warns of escalation if West Gives Ukraine longer range weapons | Latest English News | WION

nato

Nato, News on Nato, stories on Nato, articles on Nato, Nato stories at Wion, Nato news, Nato latest news