President Vladimir Putin on Sunday vowed &nbsp;Russia will "firmly" defend national interests and denounced the return of "Russophobia", as the country marked the 76th anniversary of victory in World War II.&nbsp;

His speech to thousands of soldiers and veterans on Red Square came as recent tensions between Moscow and the West have recalled the Cold War over the conflict in Ukraine and a litany of spy scandals in Europe.

"The Soviet people kept their sacred oath, defended the homeland and freed the countries of Europe from the black plague," Putin told the crowd.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="US President Biden says he is confident he can meet Russia's Putin soon ">US President Biden says he is confident he can meet Russia's Putin soon&nbsp;</a>

"Russia consistently defends international law. At the same time, we will firmly defend our national interests to ensure the safety of our people," he said.

The Russian leader also condemned what he called a creeping return of ideologies of the time, when "slogans of racial and national superiority, of anti-semitism and Russophobia, became ever more cynical".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="Putin to review Russian military might as tensions with West soar ">Putin to review Russian military might as tensions with West soar&nbsp;</a>

His speech came at the start of an annual parade that sees &nbsp;military hardware roll through the streets of Moscow.

More than 12,000 military personnel took part in Sunday's parade, as well as some 190 pieces of military equipment and 76 fighter jets and helicopters.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="Will US, Russia fight it out or resolve issues? ">Will US, Russia fight it out or resolve issues?&nbsp;</a>

Victory Day parades, which only became an annual event after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 and have taken on increasing importance in projecting Russia's renewed military might during Putin's two decades in power, also took place Sunday in dozens of cities across the nation.

A survey this week by state-run pollster VTsIOM showed that 69 percent of Russians view Victory Day as the most important holiday on the calendar.

A third of respondents said they would take part in the celebrations, while a fifth said they would watch on television.

"For me and my family, this holiday marks the victory of the entire Russian people," Yulia Gulevskikh, a 31-year-old accountant told AFP in the Far East city of Vladivostok.

"We are proud, remember and honour all our relatives and friends. And all the brave soldiers," she added, noting she was happy the parade took place despite pandemic measures.

This year's Victory Day was the second during the coronavirus pandemic.

Russia has lifted nearly all of its measures to limit the spread of the virus, though a ban remains in place on mass gatherings in most regions.&nbsp;

As of Sunday, total infections stood at nearly 4.9 million and fatalities at over 113,000, according to a tally by health officials.

But authorities have been criticised for downplaying the severity Russia's outbreak by counting only fatalities where the coronavirus was found to be the primary cause of death after an autopsy.

Figures released by Russia's statistics agency last month showed that the country had actually recorded some 250,000 virus-related deaths by the end of March.

Sunday's commemorations came as Russia in recent weeks has seen its diplomats expelled from a clutch of European countries over espionage scandals, while the United States and the European Union have levied new sanctions on Moscow over the treatment of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny and allegations of hacking and cyberattacks.

Tensions have also soared over the conflict in eastern Ukraine, which erupted after Russia annexed Crimea in 2014 and where Moscow is widely seen as backing pro-Russia separatists.

Clashes between the government and separatists have been intensifying since January in a conflict which has claimed more than 13,000 lives.

Russia last month amassed 100,000 troops near Ukraine's borders and in Crimea, its biggest buildup since 2014, though it quickly announced a drawdown in what many saw as a test for new US President Joe Biden.

Earlier this week, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken flew to Kiev in a show of support for Ukraine against Russia, and before an expected summit between Putin and Biden next month. &nbsp;

On Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky travelled with European diplomats to the pro-Russian breakaway eastern region of Lugansk to commemorate the end of WWII.&nbsp;

President Vladimir Putin on Sunday vowed Russia will "firmly" defend national interests and denounced the return of "Russophobia", as the country marked the 76th anniversary of victory in World War II.

President Vladimir Putin on Sunday vowed Russia will "firmly" defend national interests and denounced the return of "Russophobia", as the country marked the 76th anniversary of victory in World War II. His speech to thousands of soldiers and veterans on Red Square came as recent tensions between Moscow and the West have recalled the Cold War over the conflict in Ukraine and a litany of spy scandals in Europe. "The Soviet people kept their sacred oath, defended the homeland and freed the countries of Europe from the black plague," Putin told the crowd. Also read | US President Biden says he is confident he can meet Russia's Putin soon "Russia consistently defends international law. At the same time, we will firmly defend our national interests to ensure the safety of our people," he said. The Russian leader also condemned what he called a creeping return of ideologies of the time, when "slogans of racial and national superiority, of anti-semitism and Russophobia, became ever more cynical". Also read | Putin to review Russian military might as tensions with West soar His speech came at the start of an annual parade that sees military hardware roll through the streets of Moscow. More than 12,000 military personnel took part in Sunday's parade, as well as some 190 pieces of military equipment and 76 fighter jets and helicopters. Also read | Will US, Russia fight it out or resolve issues? Victory Day parades, which only became an annual event after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 and have taken on increasing importance in projecting Russia's renewed military might during Putin's two decades in power, also took place Sunday in dozens of cities across the nation. A survey this week by state-run pollster VTsIOM showed that 69 percent of Russians view Victory Day as the most important holiday on the calendar. A third of respondents said they would take part in the celebrations, while a fifth said they would watch on television. "For me and my family, this holiday marks the victory of the entire Russian people," Yulia Gulevskikh, a 31-year-old accountant told AFP in the Far East city of Vladivostok. "We are proud, remember and honour all our relatives and friends. And all the brave soldiers," she added, noting she was happy the parade took place despite pandemic measures. This year's Victory Day was the second during the coronavirus pandemic. Russia has lifted nearly all of its measures to limit the spread of the virus, though a ban remains in place on mass gatherings in most regions. As of Sunday, total infections stood at nearly 4.9 million and fatalities at over 113,000, according to a tally by health officials. But authorities have been criticised for downplaying the severity Russia's outbreak by counting only fatalities where the coronavirus was found to be the primary cause of death after an autopsy. Figures released by Russia's statistics agency last month showed that the country had actually recorded some 250,000 virus-related deaths by the end of March. Sunday's commemorations came as Russia in recent weeks has seen its diplomats expelled from a clutch of European countries over espionage scandals, while the United States and the European Union have levied new sanctions on Moscow over the treatment of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny and allegations of hacking and cyberattacks. Tensions have also soared over the conflict in eastern Ukraine, which erupted after Russia annexed Crimea in 2014 and where Moscow is widely seen as backing pro-Russia separatists. Clashes between the government and separatists have been intensifying since January in a conflict which has claimed more than 13,000 lives. Russia last month amassed 100,000 troops near Ukraine's borders and in Crimea, its biggest buildup since 2014, though it quickly announced a drawdown in what many saw as a test for new US President Joe Biden. Earlier this week, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken flew to Kiev in a show of support for Ukraine against Russia, and before an expected summit between Putin and Biden next month. On Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky travelled with European diplomats to the pro-Russian breakaway eastern region of Lugansk to commemorate the end of WWII.

Putin on WWII Victory Day vows to 'firmly' defend Russian interests

US President Joe Biden said on Friday he expected to be able to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin soon and the White House said ongoing differences between the United States and Russia would not need to be resolved in advance of a summit.&nbsp;

Biden told reporters at the White House, he wanted to meet Putin despite Russia's build-up of military forces near Ukraine.&nbsp;

"It does not impact my desire to have a one-on-one meeting and you'll notice he had more troops before. He's withdrawn troops," he said.&nbsp;

Asked about meeting Putin in June, he said: "I'm confident we'll be able to do it. We don't have any specific time or place. That's being worked on."&nbsp;

The United States has said it supports Ukraine amid what US Secretary of State Antony Blinken this week called Moscow's 'reckless' troop build-up.&nbsp;

Biden and his advisers would like to add a summit with Putin in a third country while the US president is in Europe in mid-June for a Group of Seven meeting in Britain and talks with NATO allies in Brussels.&nbsp;

But negotiations with the Russians on staging the summit are continuing, White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki told reporters.&nbsp;

"We're working through the question of some logistics - place, location, time, agenda, all the specifics - that was always going to happen at a staff level. It's really up to them what they want to achieve," she said.&nbsp;

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was cited by Russian news agency TASS as saying Russia was studying the possibility of a Putin-Biden meeting.&nbsp;

"We continue to analyse the situation," TASS quoted Peskov as saying when asked whether the Russian side has officially agreed to the proposed summit.&nbsp;

The United States has a number of grievances with Russia, including its treatment of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny. But Psaki said these grievances do not need to be resolved in advance of a Biden-Putin summit.&nbsp;

"Obviously, human rights, freedom of speech, freedom of expression, values are all issues the president, Secretary (of State Antony) Blinken, National Security Adviser (Jake) Sullivan raised with their counterparts. But the invitation to have a discussion and have a meeting was not offered with the prerequisite that every issue is resolved in advance. We expect we will still continue to have disagreements," she said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden said on Friday he expected to be able to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin soon and the White House said ongoing differences between the United States and Russia would not need to be resolved in advance of a summit.

US President Joe Biden said on Friday he expected to be able to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin soon and the White House said ongoing differences between the United States and Russia would not need to be resolved in advance of a summit. Biden told reporters at the White House, he wanted to meet Putin despite Russia's build-up of military forces near Ukraine. "It does not impact my desire to have a one-on-one meeting and you'll notice he had more troops before. He's withdrawn troops," he said. Asked about meeting Putin in June, he said: "I'm confident we'll be able to do it. We don't have any specific time or place. That's being worked on." The United States has said it supports Ukraine amid what US Secretary of State Antony Blinken this week called Moscow's 'reckless' troop build-up. Biden and his advisers would like to add a summit with Putin in a third country while the US president is in Europe in mid-June for a Group of Seven meeting in Britain and talks with NATO allies in Brussels. But negotiations with the Russians on staging the summit are continuing, White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki told reporters. "We're working through the question of some logistics - place, location, time, agenda, all the specifics - that was always going to happen at a staff level. It's really up to them what they want to achieve," she said. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was cited by Russian news agency TASS as saying Russia was studying the possibility of a Putin-Biden meeting. "We continue to analyse the situation," TASS quoted Peskov as saying when asked whether the Russian side has officially agreed to the proposed summit. The United States has a number of grievances with Russia, including its treatment of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny. But Psaki said these grievances do not need to be resolved in advance of a Biden-Putin summit. "Obviously, human rights, freedom of speech, freedom of expression, values are all issues the president, Secretary (of State Antony) Blinken, National Security Adviser (Jake) Sullivan raised with their counterparts. But the invitation to have a discussion and have a meeting was not offered with the prerequisite that every issue is resolved in advance. We expect we will still continue to have disagreements," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

US President Biden says he is confident he can meet Russia's Putin soon 

Close allies of jailed Alexei Navalny, Russian President Vladimir Putin`s most vocal critic, pledged on Sunday to continue their actions despite the prospect of being outlawed under extremism charges.

Moscow City Court is expected to rule in a few days on a request from a Moscow prosecutor to officially outlaw the backbone of Navalny`s political movement - the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) - on the grounds that it is an extremist group.

Such a ruling, if it happens, would give the authorities the legal power to arrest and jail his supporters and block their bank accounts simply for being activists in the foundation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Navalny says continuing hunger strike despite cough and fever, risks death in prison">Navalny says continuing hunger strike despite cough and fever, risks death in prison</a>

Leonid Volkov, chief of staff of Navalny's team, said on Sunday the group would continue its work, including investigations into corruption.

"We are not going to give up," Volkov said in an online broadcast. Volkov lives in Lithuania.

Navalny was jailed in February for 2-1/2 years on charges he called politically motivated. On Friday, he said, he would start gradually ending a hunger strike after getting medical care.

Navalny's allies have pressed ahead with his "smart voting" strategy, supporting politicians outside of pro-Kremlin United Russia party they believe to be well placed to beat the ruling party candidates and urging Russians to vote for them.

Russians are set to vote in general elections in September.

"We have time, desire and strength to restructure our work, to get the smart voting to the elections and beat the United Russia," said Volkov.

Close allies of jailed Alexei Navalny, Russian President Vladimir Putin`s most vocal critic, pledged on Sunday to continue their actions despite the prospect of being outlawed under extremism charges.

Close allies of jailed Alexei Navalny, Russian President Vladimir Putin`s most vocal critic, pledged on Sunday to continue their actions despite the prospect of being outlawed under extremism charges. Moscow City Court is expected to rule in a few days on a request from a Moscow prosecutor to officially outlaw the backbone of Navalny`s political movement - the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) - on the grounds that it is an extremist group. Such a ruling, if it happens, would give the authorities the legal power to arrest and jail his supporters and block their bank accounts simply for being activists in the foundation. Also read: Navalny says continuing hunger strike despite cough and fever, risks death in prison Leonid Volkov, chief of staff of Navalny's team, said on Sunday the group would continue its work, including investigations into corruption. "We are not going to give up," Volkov said in an online broadcast. Volkov lives in Lithuania. Navalny was jailed in February for 2-1/2 years on charges he called politically motivated. On Friday, he said, he would start gradually ending a hunger strike after getting medical care. Navalny's allies have pressed ahead with his "smart voting" strategy, supporting politicians outside of pro-Kremlin United Russia party they believe to be well placed to beat the ruling party candidates and urging Russians to vote for them. Russians are set to vote in general elections in September. "We have time, desire and strength to restructure our work, to get the smart voting to the elections and beat the United Russia," said Volkov.

Allies of Russia's Navalny defiant in face of possible extremism charges

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree allowing the country to limit the number of Russians employed at embassies of countries determined to be unfriendly, or to ban their employment entirely.&nbsp;

The measure, announced by the Kremlin on Friday, comes amid a flurry of expulsions of Russian diplomats from the United States and European countries and Moscow's retaliatory expulsions. &nbsp;

The decree directs the government to draw up a list of countries determined to be unfriendly. It would affect not only those countries' embassies, but consular offices and offices of state institutions. &nbsp;

The United States last week expelled 10 Russian diplomats in connection with interference in the 2020 US Presidential election and for involvement in the SolarWind hack of federal agencies.&nbsp;

The Czech Republic last week expelled 18 Russian envoys they labeled as spies, prompting Russia to send 20 Czech diplomats home. That devastated Czech Embassy operations in Moscow, prompting Czech authorities on Thursday to order 63 more Russian diplomats to leave so that both countries had the same number of staff in their respective embassies.&nbsp;

Poland last week said it was expelling three Russians and Moscow expelled five in retaliation. The Baltic countries of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia ordered a total of four Russian envoys to leave. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree allowing the country to limit the number of Russians employed at embassies of countries determined to be unfriendly, or to ban their employment entirely.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree allowing the country to limit the number of Russians employed at embassies of countries determined to be unfriendly, or to ban their employment entirely. The measure, announced by the Kremlin on Friday, comes amid a flurry of expulsions of Russian diplomats from the United States and European countries and Moscow's retaliatory expulsions. The decree directs the government to draw up a list of countries determined to be unfriendly. It would affect not only those countries' embassies, but consular offices and offices of state institutions. The United States last week expelled 10 Russian diplomats in connection with interference in the 2020 US Presidential election and for involvement in the SolarWind hack of federal agencies. The Czech Republic last week expelled 18 Russian envoys they labeled as spies, prompting Russia to send 20 Czech diplomats home. That devastated Czech Embassy operations in Moscow, prompting Czech authorities on Thursday to order 63 more Russian diplomats to leave so that both countries had the same number of staff in their respective embassies. Poland last week said it was expelling three Russians and Moscow expelled five in retaliation. The Baltic countries of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia ordered a total of four Russian envoys to leave. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin: 'Unfriendly' embassies may face Russian hiring bans 

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky was welcome in Moscow "any time" but stressed that he should discuss the conflict in eastern Ukraine with separatists directly.

"If we are talking about bilateral relations, then by all means, we are ready to welcome the president of Ukraine at any time that is convenient for him," the Russian leader said during a meeting with Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko in Moscow.

Putin's invitation to Zelensky came in response to this week's offer from the Ukrainian president for the two leaders to meet in eastern Ukraine, where an uptick in fighting between Kiev's army and pro-Moscow separatists has raised fears of a return to full-blown war.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-security-service-says-it-has-detained-60-pro-russian-protesters-379222">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-security-service-says-it-has-detained-60-pro-russian-protesters-379222/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Ukraine, the European Union and the United States have recently sounded the alarm over Russian troops massing on the border of the ex-Soviet country.

Moscow has said troops are running military drills in response to NATO manoeuvres, and Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Thursday ordered the troops to return to their permanent bases by May 1.

"If President Zelensky wants to start repairing relations, then we of course welcome it," Putin told journalists at the beginning of negotiations with Lukashenko.

But the Russian leader said that if Zelensky hoped to resolve problems stemming from fighting in eastern Ukraine, then he should first meet with leaders of the breakaway regions in Donetsk and Lugansk.

"And only then discuss these issues with representatives of third countries, which in this the case is Russia," Putin said.

Kiev has been battling pro-Russian separatists in the eastern Donetsk and Lugansk regions since 2014, following Moscow's annexation of the Crimean peninsula.

The conflict, which has claimed more than 13,000 lives, has seen around 30 Ukrainian soldiers killed since the start of the year, compared to 50 in all of 2020.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky was welcome in Moscow "any time" but stressed that he should discuss the conflict in eastern Ukraine with separatists directly.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky was welcome in Moscow "any time" but stressed that he should discuss the conflict in eastern Ukraine with separatists directly. "If we are talking about bilateral relations, then by all means, we are ready to welcome the president of Ukraine at any time that is convenient for him," the Russian leader said during a meeting with Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko in Moscow. Putin's invitation to Zelensky came in response to this week's offer from the Ukrainian president for the two leaders to meet in eastern Ukraine, where an uptick in fighting between Kiev's army and pro-Moscow separatists has raised fears of a return to full-blown war. Watch | Ukraine, the European Union and the United States have recently sounded the alarm over Russian troops massing on the border of the ex-Soviet country. Moscow has said troops are running military drills in response to NATO manoeuvres, and Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Thursday ordered the troops to return to their permanent bases by May 1. "If President Zelensky wants to start repairing relations, then we of course welcome it," Putin told journalists at the beginning of negotiations with Lukashenko. But the Russian leader said that if Zelensky hoped to resolve problems stemming from fighting in eastern Ukraine, then he should first meet with leaders of the breakaway regions in Donetsk and Lugansk. "And only then discuss these issues with representatives of third countries, which in this the case is Russia," Putin said. Kiev has been battling pro-Russian separatists in the eastern Donetsk and Lugansk regions since 2014, following Moscow's annexation of the Crimean peninsula. The conflict, which has claimed more than 13,000 lives, has seen around 30 Ukrainian soldiers killed since the start of the year, compared to 50 in all of 2020.

Putin offers to meet Ukraine president in Moscow 'any time'

The Russian military sent a fighter jet to escort a US reconnaissance aircraft over the Pacific Ocean as the aircraft approached the Russian border.

Interfax news reported that the Russian military sent a MiG-31 fighter jet after identifying the US Air Force craft.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-begins-withdrawing-troops-from-ukraine-borders-379476">Russia begins withdrawing troops from Ukraine border</a>

"The Russian fighter crew identified the aerial target as a US Air Force RC-135 strategic reconnaissance aircraft and escorted it over the waters of the Pacific Ocean," Interfax reported, citing the Russian Pacific Fleet.

After intercepting the aircraft, the Russian jet returned home as the US plane turned away from the Russian border.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-declares-10-day-non-working-period-in-russia-amid-coronavirus-surge-379511" hreflang="en">Putin declares 10-day 'non-working period' in Russia amid coronavirus surge</a>

The US and Russia have not been on been on best terms for the past few weeks, especially as the Presidents of the two countries have been involved in a verbal spat after Joe Biden labelled Vladimir Putin as a "killer".

Russia has, since then, reacted to the comments made by Biden and has also urged the US President to hold a discussion with Putin.

The Russian military sent a fighter jet to escort a US reconnaissance aircraft over the Pacific Ocean as the aircraft approached the Russian border. Interfax news reported that the Russian military sent a MiG-31 fighter jet after identifying the US Air Force craft.

The Russian military sent a fighter jet to escort a US reconnaissance aircraft over the Pacific Ocean as the aircraft approached the Russian border. Interfax news reported that the Russian military sent a MiG-31 fighter jet after identifying the US Air Force craft. Also read | Russia begins withdrawing troops from Ukraine border "The Russian fighter crew identified the aerial target as a US Air Force RC-135 strategic reconnaissance aircraft and escorted it over the waters of the Pacific Ocean," Interfax reported, citing the Russian Pacific Fleet. After intercepting the aircraft, the Russian jet returned home as the US plane turned away from the Russian border. Also read | Putin declares 10-day 'non-working period' in Russia amid coronavirus surge The US and Russia have not been on been on best terms for the past few weeks, especially as the Presidents of the two countries have been involved in a verbal spat after Joe Biden labelled Vladimir Putin as a "killer". Russia has, since then, reacted to the comments made by Biden and has also urged the US President to hold a discussion with Putin.

Russia sends fighter jet after identifying US 'spy plane'

President Vladimir&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;said Thursday that&nbsp;Russia, the world's fourth-highest producer of carbon emissions, was committed to&nbsp;fulfilling&nbsp;its international&nbsp;obligations&nbsp;to combat&nbsp;climate&nbsp;change.

Russia&nbsp;has set numerous heat records in recent years, with the first half of 2020 seeing the warmest temperatures since the country began weather observations.

"Russia&nbsp;is approaching with complete responsibility its fulfilment of international&nbsp;obligations&nbsp;in this area,"&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;told a summit hosted by US President Joe Biden.

He added that&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;had set out to "significantly limit" net emissions by 2050.

"Despite&nbsp;Russia's size, its geography,&nbsp;climate&nbsp;and the structure of its economy, I am sure this task is achievable,"&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;added.&nbsp;

He concluded by saying that&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;was interested in "stepping up international cooperation" on&nbsp;climate&nbsp;change.

Rising temperatures are contributing to increasingly regular and devastating floods and forest fires in Siberia.

President Vladimir Putin said Thursday that Russia, the world's fourth-highest producer of carbon emissions, was committed to fulfilling its international obligations to combat climate change.

President Vladimir Putin said Thursday that Russia, the world's fourth-highest producer of carbon emissions, was committed to fulfilling its international obligations to combat climate change. Russia has set numerous heat records in recent years, with the first half of 2020 seeing the warmest temperatures since the country began weather observations. "Russia is approaching with complete responsibility its fulfilment of international obligations in this area," Putin told a summit hosted by US President Joe Biden. He added that Russia had set out to "significantly limit" net emissions by 2050. "Despite Russia's size, its geography, climate and the structure of its economy, I am sure this task is achievable," Putin added. He concluded by saying that Russia was interested in "stepping up international cooperation" on climate change. Rising temperatures are contributing to increasingly regular and devastating floods and forest fires in Siberia.

Putin says Russia fulfilling obligations to fight climate change

The Russian Police has arrested eight people in Russia's far-eastern city of Magadan on Wednesday, according to the Open Russia opposition group, as protests began across the country over Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's deteriorating health in prison.

Several Navalny allies were detained on Wednesday morning, hours before President Vladimir Putin was due to deliver a state-of-the-nation speech.

Yesterday, The Moscow government had refused to authorize rallies scheduled for April 21 and May 1 because of the coronavirus, the Russian capital's security department had said on Tuesday.

The department said that the Communist Party of the Russian Federation, the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia, and the Moscow Trade Union Federation were among those who submitted appeals to have public rallies across Moscow authorized for April 21 and May 1.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Russian Police has arrested eight people in Russia's far-eastern city of Magadan on Wednesday, according to the Open Russia opposition group, as protests began across the country over Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's deteriorating health in prison.

The Russian Police has arrested eight people in Russia's far-eastern city of Magadan on Wednesday, according to the Open Russia opposition group, as protests began across the country over Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's deteriorating health in prison. Several Navalny allies were detained on Wednesday morning, hours before President Vladimir Putin was due to deliver a state-of-the-nation speech. Yesterday, The Moscow government had refused to authorize rallies scheduled for April 21 and May 1 because of the coronavirus, the Russian capital's security department had said on Tuesday. The department said that the Communist Party of the Russian Federation, the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia, and the Moscow Trade Union Federation were among those who submitted appeals to have public rallies across Moscow authorized for April 21 and May 1. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian police detain eight at Navalny protests in far east

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that the&nbsp;Russian public should attain collective immunity from COVID-19 by this autumn and called on&nbsp;Russians to get vaccinated against the coronavirus.

"Vaccination is now of paramount importance... to allow herd immunity to develop in the fall," Putin said during his annual state of the nation address.

"Our scientists have made a real breakthrough. Now&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;has three reliable vaccines against the coronavirus," he added.

The 68-year-old received his second dose of a coronavirus vaccine last week without specifying which of&nbsp;Russia's three jabs: Sputnik V, EpiVacCorona, or CoviVac,&nbsp;he had been administered.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, he reiterated an appeal he has made multiple times in recent weeks for all Russians to get a vaccine.&nbsp;

"I appeal to all citizens of&nbsp;Russia: get vaccinated. This is the only way we will get rid of this deadly disease," he said.

Despite beginning its vaccination campaign in early December ahead of most countries,&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;has struggled to inoculate its citizens.

Many Russians are sceptical of the vaccine, with a recent opinion poll showing fewer than a third are willing to get inoculated.

Deputy Prime Minister Tatiana Golikova said last week that "significantly" more than eight million of&nbsp;Russia's 144 million people have been vaccinated.

The country has been among the hardest hit by Covid-19, with health officials reporting more than 4.7 million cases and 106,000 deaths as of Wednesday.

But Putin reiterated a claim he has made throughout the pandemic, that&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;has handled its outbreak better than most countries. &nbsp;

"Healthcare in many leading countries was not able to as effectively ward off the epidemic as we have."

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that the Russian public should attain collective immunity from COVID-19 by this autumn and called on Russians to get vaccinated against the coronavirus.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that the Russian public should attain collective immunity from COVID-19 by this autumn and called on Russians to get vaccinated against the coronavirus. "Vaccination is now of paramount importance... to allow herd immunity to develop in the fall," Putin said during his annual state of the nation address. "Our scientists have made a real breakthrough. Now Russia has three reliable vaccines against the coronavirus," he added. The 68-year-old received his second dose of a coronavirus vaccine last week without specifying which of Russia's three jabs: Sputnik V, EpiVacCorona, or CoviVac, he had been administered. On Wednesday, he reiterated an appeal he has made multiple times in recent weeks for all Russians to get a vaccine. "I appeal to all citizens of Russia: get vaccinated. This is the only way we will get rid of this deadly disease," he said. Despite beginning its vaccination campaign in early December ahead of most countries, Russia has struggled to inoculate its citizens. Many Russians are sceptical of the vaccine, with a recent opinion poll showing fewer than a third are willing to get inoculated. Deputy Prime Minister Tatiana Golikova said last week that "significantly" more than eight million of Russia's 144 million people have been vaccinated. The country has been among the hardest hit by Covid-19, with health officials reporting more than 4.7 million cases and 106,000 deaths as of Wednesday. But Putin reiterated a claim he has made throughout the pandemic, that Russia has handled its outbreak better than most countries. "Healthcare in many leading countries was not able to as effectively ward off the epidemic as we have." (With inputs from agencies)

Putin says Russia should have collective COVID-19 immunity by autumn

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Tuesday challenged his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to meet him in eastern Ukraine's Donbass region for talks on ending the conflict there and easing tensions between the two states.

The blunt offer for talks came following a flare-up in clashes between Ukraine's army and pro-Russian separatists controlling two regions in the country's east, raising concerns of a major escalation in the simmering war.

In an address to the nation, Zelensky said that Ukrainian and Russian negotiators had recently discussed plans for officials to travel to the frontlines of the trench conflict to assess the situation.

"I am ready to go even further and invite you to meet in any part of the Ukrainian Donbass where war is ongoing," Zelensky said.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-russia-ukraine-conflict-explained-377141/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Kiev has been battling pro-Russian separatists in the eastern Donetsk and Lugansk regions since 2014, following Moscow's annexation of the Crimean peninsula,&nbsp;a move that plunged Russia's ties with the West to new lows and led to economic penalties.

The conflict, which has claimed more than 13,000 lives, has seen 30 Ukrainian soldiers killed since the start of the year, compared to 50 in all of 2020.

The escalation along the frontline as well as sharp rhetoric has spurred fresh rounds of talks. Ukrainian and Russian negotiators met earlier this week and also on Tuesday, although they have so far failed to secure any breakthroughs.

Zelensky said in his address to the nation that although Ukraine did not want war, it was prepared to fight.

"Will Ukraine defend itself if something happens? Always. Our principle is simple: Ukraine does not start a war first, but Ukraine always stands to the last," he said.

On the frontline however, fears were growing of a major escalation, with soldiers set to repel attacks and streets in towns near the front line empty over fears of a return to war.

Ukraine, its Western allies and NATO have accused Russia of a "provocative" build-up of troops on Ukraine's eastern border and in Crimea. Russia in turn accused the United States and NATO of "provocative activity" in the Black Sea region.

The standoff has prompted Ukraine to urge NATO member states to admit Ukraine into the military alliance. It also called on the European Union to impose new economic sanctions on Moscow but acknowledged that EU might not be prepared to do so yet.

"Our citizens need clear signals that in the eighth year of the war, a country that is a shield for Europe at the cost of its lives, will receive support not just as partners, from the stands, but as players on the same team, directly on the field, shoulder to shoulder," Zelenskiy said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Tuesday challenged his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to meet him in eastern Ukraine's Donbass region for talks on ending the conflict there and easing tensions between the two states.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Tuesday challenged his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to meet him in eastern Ukraine's Donbass region for talks on ending the conflict there and easing tensions between the two states. The blunt offer for talks came following a flare-up in clashes between Ukraine's army and pro-Russian separatists controlling two regions in the country's east, raising concerns of a major escalation in the simmering war. In an address to the nation, Zelensky said that Ukrainian and Russian negotiators had recently discussed plans for officials to travel to the frontlines of the trench conflict to assess the situation. "I am ready to go even further and invite you to meet in any part of the Ukrainian Donbass where war is ongoing," Zelensky said. Kiev has been battling pro-Russian separatists in the eastern Donetsk and Lugansk regions since 2014, following Moscow's annexation of the Crimean peninsula, a move that plunged Russia's ties with the West to new lows and led to economic penalties. The conflict, which has claimed more than 13,000 lives, has seen 30 Ukrainian soldiers killed since the start of the year, compared to 50 in all of 2020. The escalation along the frontline as well as sharp rhetoric has spurred fresh rounds of talks. Ukrainian and Russian negotiators met earlier this week and also on Tuesday, although they have so far failed to secure any breakthroughs. Zelensky said in his address to the nation that although Ukraine did not want war, it was prepared to fight. "Will Ukraine defend itself if something happens? Always. Our principle is simple: Ukraine does not start a war first, but Ukraine always stands to the last," he said. On the frontline however, fears were growing of a major escalation, with soldiers set to repel attacks and streets in towns near the front line empty over fears of a return to war. Ukraine, its Western allies and NATO have accused Russia of a "provocative" build-up of troops on Ukraine's eastern border and in Crimea. Russia in turn accused the United States and NATO of "provocative activity" in the Black Sea region. The standoff has prompted Ukraine to urge NATO member states to admit Ukraine into the military alliance. It also called on the European Union to impose new economic sanctions on Moscow but acknowledged that EU might not be prepared to do so yet. "Our citizens need clear signals that in the eighth year of the war, a country that is a shield for Europe at the cost of its lives, will receive support not just as partners, from the stands, but as players on the same team, directly on the field, shoulder to shoulder," Zelenskiy said. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine's President Zelenskiy asks Putin to meet him for peace talks in conflict zone

President Vladimir Putin will deliver a state-of-the-nation speech to Russians on Wednesday as supporters of his fiercest critic, Alexei&nbsp;Navalny, plan nationwide protests over his deteriorating health in jail.

Putin, who makes a point of never uttering&nbsp;Navalny's name, has said his speech to both houses of parliament will focus on projects to boost economic growth, which has been hit by foreign sanctions, low oil prices and the coronavirus pandemic.

But as he starts his address at noon (0900 GMT), demonstrators in the far east port of Vladivostok are due to take to the streets in the first of a wave of rolling protests across Russia in support of the 44-year-old&nbsp;Navalny, gravely weakened by a three-week hunger strike.

Both sides are braced for a showdown. Previous rallies in support of&nbsp;Navalny&nbsp;have been broken up by force, with thousands of arrests, and authorities have said Wednesday's gatherings will be illegal.

The trial of strength will be closely watched abroad, at a time of deep crisis in Russia's relations with the West over its treatment of&nbsp;Navalny, a major build-up of troops on the Ukrainian border and a rash of other issues that led Washington to impose new sanctions on Moscow last week, and the Kremlin to respond in kind.

Navalny, who survived a nerve agent poisoning last year that Russia denies carrying out, was sentenced in February to 2-1/2 years for parole violations related to an embezzlement case that he says was politically motivated.

He went on hunger strike on March 31 over what he said was the refusal of prison authorities to provide him with adequate treatment for acute leg and back pain. Officials say he has received normal medical care, as would any other convict.

Navalny's supporters have called for what they hope will be the biggest protests in modern Russian history, saying his life is hanging by a thread and demanding he receives proper medical attention.

On the eve of the protests, monitoring group OVD-Info reported police raids at&nbsp;Navalny's regional offices in the cities of Krasnodar and Kurgan, and arrests of individual activists in about a dozen cities.&nbsp;Navalny's team has said protests will be held in more than 100 cities and towns.

The venue for Putin's address, the Manege exhibition hall adjacent to the Kremlin, stands on the square&nbsp;Navalny's allies have designated as the location of their rally in Moscow on Wednesday evening.

President Vladimir Putin will deliver a state-of-the-nation speech to Russians on Wednesday as supporters of his fiercest critic, Alexei Navalny, plan nationwide protests over his deteriorating health in jail.

President Vladimir Putin will deliver a state-of-the-nation speech to Russians on Wednesday as supporters of his fiercest critic, Alexei Navalny, plan nationwide protests over his deteriorating health in jail. Putin, who makes a point of never uttering Navalny's name, has said his speech to both houses of parliament will focus on projects to boost economic growth, which has been hit by foreign sanctions, low oil prices and the coronavirus pandemic. But as he starts his address at noon (0900 GMT), demonstrators in the far east port of Vladivostok are due to take to the streets in the first of a wave of rolling protests across Russia in support of the 44-year-old Navalny, gravely weakened by a three-week hunger strike. Both sides are braced for a showdown. Previous rallies in support of Navalny have been broken up by force, with thousands of arrests, and authorities have said Wednesday's gatherings will be illegal. The trial of strength will be closely watched abroad, at a time of deep crisis in Russia's relations with the West over its treatment of Navalny, a major build-up of troops on the Ukrainian border and a rash of other issues that led Washington to impose new sanctions on Moscow last week, and the Kremlin to respond in kind. Navalny, who survived a nerve agent poisoning last year that Russia denies carrying out, was sentenced in February to 2-1/2 years for parole violations related to an embezzlement case that he says was politically motivated. He went on hunger strike on March 31 over what he said was the refusal of prison authorities to provide him with adequate treatment for acute leg and back pain. Officials say he has received normal medical care, as would any other convict. Navalny's supporters have called for what they hope will be the biggest protests in modern Russian history, saying his life is hanging by a thread and demanding he receives proper medical attention. On the eve of the protests, monitoring group OVD-Info reported police raids at Navalny's regional offices in the cities of Krasnodar and Kurgan, and arrests of individual activists in about a dozen cities. Navalny's team has said protests will be held in more than 100 cities and towns. The venue for Putin's address, the Manege exhibition hall adjacent to the Kremlin, stands on the square Navalny's allies have designated as the location of their rally in Moscow on Wednesday evening.

Navalny supporters seek to drown out Putin speech with mass protests

Russian President Vladimir Putin will deliver a speech on Thursday at an online climate change summit hosted by US President Joe Biden, the Kremlin said, despite a deep crisis in relations between Moscow and Washington.&nbsp;

Putin's attendance signals he is still open to dialogue with the United States even though the two countries have imposed new sanctions on each other in the past few days. He has yet to accept or decline a separate invitation from Biden to a bilateral summit.&nbsp;

Biden has invited 40 world leaders to the climate summit, part of his effort to make the fight against global warming a top priority.&nbsp;

Putin, in his speech, will "outline Russia's approaches in the context of forging broad international cooperation aimed at overcoming the negative effects of global climate change," the Kremlin said.&nbsp;

Washington imposed new sanctions on Russia on last Thursday for alleged malign activity including interfering in last year's US election, cyber hacking and bullying neighbouring Ukraine.&nbsp;

Russia denied the accusations and retaliated with sanctions of its own the following day.&nbsp;

The United States has warned Russia, there will be further consequences if Alexei Navalny, an opposition politician, who has been on hunger strike in prison for nearly three weeks, were to die. Russia has said it is ready to impose more 'painful' measures against Washington if tensions escalate further.&nbsp;

Relations slumped to a new post-Cold War low last month after Biden said he thought Putin was a 'killer' and Moscow recalled its ambassador to Washington for consultations.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin will deliver a speech on Thursday at an online climate change summit hosted by US President Joe Biden, the Kremlin said, despite a deep crisis in relations between Moscow and Washington.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will deliver a speech on Thursday at an online climate change summit hosted by US President Joe Biden, the Kremlin said, despite a deep crisis in relations between Moscow and Washington. Putin's attendance signals he is still open to dialogue with the United States even though the two countries have imposed new sanctions on each other in the past few days. He has yet to accept or decline a separate invitation from Biden to a bilateral summit. Biden has invited 40 world leaders to the climate summit, part of his effort to make the fight against global warming a top priority. Putin, in his speech, will "outline Russia's approaches in the context of forging broad international cooperation aimed at overcoming the negative effects of global climate change," the Kremlin said. Washington imposed new sanctions on Russia on last Thursday for alleged malign activity including interfering in last year's US election, cyber hacking and bullying neighbouring Ukraine. Russia denied the accusations and retaliated with sanctions of its own the following day. The United States has warned Russia, there will be further consequences if Alexei Navalny, an opposition politician, who has been on hunger strike in prison for nearly three weeks, were to die. Russia has said it is ready to impose more 'painful' measures against Washington if tensions escalate further. Relations slumped to a new post-Cold War low last month after Biden said he thought Putin was a 'killer' and Moscow recalled its ambassador to Washington for consultations.

Putin to address Biden's climate summit despite crisis in US-Russia ties 

The United States on Thursday announced economic sanctions on Russia and expelled 10 diplomats. This has come in retaliation for what the US says is Kremlin's interference in US elections and other hostile activities including a massive cyber attack.

The White House said that US President Joe Biden's executive order on sanctions " "sends a signal that the United States will impose costs in a strategic and economically impactful manner on Russia if it continues or escalates its destabilising international action".

US found support from its NATO allies as it slapped sanctions on Russia. The bloc supported the move taken in response to Moscow's&nbsp;"destabilising activities", an alliance statement said.

"NATO Allies support and stand in solidarity with the United States, following its 15 April announcement of actions to respond to Russia's destabilising activities," the statement said.&nbsp;

Russia talks tough

Russian reaction on US sanctions has expectedly been tough. Russian foreign ministry on Thursday said that it was "unavoidable" that Moscow would respond to sanctions. It also said that it had called Washington`s ambassador in Moscow for 'tough talks'.

Russian foreign ministry also said that Biden's decision to slap sanctions on Russia contradicted his stated desire to normalise ties.

Foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that the United States` hostile steps had dangerously raised the temperature of a confrontation between Moscow and Washington and that it would have to pay for damaging bilateral ties.

Earlier, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-on-russia-wont-help-biden-putin-summit-kremlin-377759">Kremlin expressed its displeasure</a> as news of potential US sanctions did rounds in US media. Russia said at that time that going ahead with sanctions&nbsp;would&nbsp;"not help" a possible summit between Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"What is currently being discussed -- likely sanctions -- will in no way help such a meeting. That is unambiguous," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists, as reported by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-on-russia-wont-help-biden-putin-summit-kremlin-377759">US sanctions on Russia won't 'help' Biden-Putin summit: Kremlin</a>

Tensions between Russia and the West have been rising in recent weeks amid Russia's troop buildup near Russia-Ukraine border. The separatists in Ukraine's Donbass region have caused violence. Ukraine alleges that the separatists enjoy support from Moscow, a claim Russian denies. The US has assured Ukraine of help in the the current situation.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Thursday announced economic sanctions on Russia and expelled 10 diplomats. This has come in retaliation for what the US says is Kremlin's interference in US elections and other hostile activities including a massive cyber attack.

The United States on Thursday announced economic sanctions on Russia and expelled 10 diplomats. This has come in retaliation for what the US says is Kremlin's interference in US elections and other hostile activities including a massive cyber attack. The White House said that US President Joe Biden's executive order on sanctions " "sends a signal that the United States will impose costs in a strategic and economically impactful manner on Russia if it continues or escalates its destabilising international action". US found support from its NATO allies as it slapped sanctions on Russia. The bloc supported the move taken in response to Moscow's "destabilising activities", an alliance statement said. "NATO Allies support and stand in solidarity with the United States, following its 15 April announcement of actions to respond to Russia's destabilising activities," the statement said. Russia talks tough Russian reaction on US sanctions has expectedly been tough. Russian foreign ministry on Thursday said that it was "unavoidable" that Moscow would respond to sanctions. It also said that it had called Washington`s ambassador in Moscow for 'tough talks'. Russian foreign ministry also said that Biden's decision to slap sanctions on Russia contradicted his stated desire to normalise ties. Foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that the United States` hostile steps had dangerously raised the temperature of a confrontation between Moscow and Washington and that it would have to pay for damaging bilateral ties. Earlier, Kremlin expressed its displeasure as news of potential US sanctions did rounds in US media. Russia said at that time that going ahead with sanctions would "not help" a possible summit between Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin. "What is currently being discussed -- likely sanctions -- will in no way help such a meeting. That is unambiguous," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists, as reported by news agency AFP. Also Read | US sanctions on Russia won't 'help' Biden-Putin summit: Kremlin Tensions between Russia and the West have been rising in recent weeks amid Russia's troop buildup near Russia-Ukraine border. The separatists in Ukraine's Donbass region have caused violence. Ukraine alleges that the separatists enjoy support from Moscow, a claim Russian denies. The US has assured Ukraine of help in the the current situation. (With inputs from agencies)

US slaps sanctions on Russia, expels 10 diplomats over poll meddlling, cyber attack

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a law allowing him to potentially hold on to power until 2036. The move formalises constitutional changes endorsed in a vote last year.

Putin signs law allowing him to hold power until 2036

Russian President Vladimir <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cannot-ape-putin-explains-why-he-chose-to-get-vaccinated-in-private-373949">Putin</a>, 68, on Monday approved a legislation allowing him to hold office for two additional six-year terms.

Watch:

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Putin who has been in power for over two decades can stay until 2036, according to the new law. The Russian president had proposed the changes last year as part of his constitutional reforms agenda.

In the new legislation, Putin can contest the presidential elections again after his current and second consecutive term expires in 2024.

Putin was first elected president in 2000 and has served two consecutive four-year terms. In 2008, his place was taken by his close ally Dmitry Medvedev after Putin had served two consecutive terms as president.

During his tenure, Medvedev had signed on legislation that allowed extending terms to six years starting with the next president after which Putin returned to power in 2012 and then won the re-election in 2018.

Russian lawmakers last month had approved legislation allowing Putin to serve to hold office for two additional terms.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, 68, on Monday approved a legislation allowing him to hold office for two additional six-year terms. Watch: Putin who has been in power for over two decades can stay until 2036, according to the new law.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, 68, on Monday approved a legislation allowing him to hold office for two additional six-year terms. Watch: Putin who has been in power for over two decades can stay until 2036, according to the new law. The Russian president had proposed the changes last year as part of his constitutional reforms agenda. In the new legislation, Putin can contest the presidential elections again after his current and second consecutive term expires in 2024. Putin was first elected president in 2000 and has served two consecutive four-year terms. In 2008, his place was taken by his close ally Dmitry Medvedev after Putin had served two consecutive terms as president. During his tenure, Medvedev had signed on legislation that allowed extending terms to six years starting with the next president after which Putin returned to power in 2012 and then won the re-election in 2018. Russian lawmakers last month had approved legislation allowing Putin to serve to hold office for two additional terms.

Russian President Putin approves legislation allowing him to serve two more terms

A few days ago, Russia's President Vladimir Putin got vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus with an unspecified Russian-made vaccine.

However, unlike other world leaders, Putin decided to not have the process broadcasted in front of the media and the world.

While Kremlin had declined requests of giving any details, the Russian leader has now, himself, addressed questions of media regarding his vaccine shot.

During an interview on a Russian TV show, Putin said he opted to get the jab in private, rather than on television because he did not want to "ape" like other —hinting he did not want to follow other leaders and out on a show.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-gets-covid-vaccine-kremlin-refuses-to-share-details-372644">Putin gets Covid vaccine; Kremlin refuses to share details</a>

He also stressed that he cannot get himself to do this on television simply because other world leaders did the same.

Putin also claimed that there is no use in putting on such a show as the vaccination can be easily faked.

"You can show the injection, but actually inject saline or just about anything," he said.

Talking about his experience of getting vaccinated, he revealed that he did feel slight discomfort after receiving the jab and has since then refrained from exercising.

The Kremlin had, earlier, denied requests of media for details. Dmitry Peskov, Putin's spokesman, earlier told reporters that the media would have to take the Kremlin's word for Putin's vaccination, adding the president did not like the idea of being vaccinated on camera.

"We are deliberately not saying which shot the president will get, noting that all three Russian (-made) vaccines are absolutely reliable and effective," said Peskov.

A few days ago, Russia's President Vladimir Putin got vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus with an unspecified Russian-made vaccine. However, unlike other world leaders, Putin decided to not have the process broadcasted in front of the media and the world.

A few days ago, Russia's President Vladimir Putin got vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus with an unspecified Russian-made vaccine. However, unlike other world leaders, Putin decided to not have the process broadcasted in front of the media and the world. While Kremlin had declined requests of giving any details, the Russian leader has now, himself, addressed questions of media regarding his vaccine shot. During an interview on a Russian TV show, Putin said he opted to get the jab in private, rather than on television because he did not want to "ape" like other —hinting he did not want to follow other leaders and out on a show. Also read | Putin gets Covid vaccine; Kremlin refuses to share details He also stressed that he cannot get himself to do this on television simply because other world leaders did the same. Putin also claimed that there is no use in putting on such a show as the vaccination can be easily faked. "You can show the injection, but actually inject saline or just about anything," he said. Talking about his experience of getting vaccinated, he revealed that he did feel slight discomfort after receiving the jab and has since then refrained from exercising. The Kremlin had, earlier, denied requests of media for details. Dmitry Peskov, Putin's spokesman, earlier told reporters that the media would have to take the Kremlin's word for Putin's vaccination, adding the president did not like the idea of being vaccinated on camera. "We are deliberately not saying which shot the president will get, noting that all three Russian (-made) vaccines are absolutely reliable and effective," said Peskov.

'Cannot ape': Putin explains why he chose to get vaccinated in private

Russian President Vladimir Putin, during a holiday in Siberia with Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, piloted an all-terrain vehicle through thick woodland and traversed a swaying rope bridge, Kremlin footage showed. &nbsp;

Putin routinely appears on state television participating in various outdoor pursuits to project the image of a healthy and robust leader capable of leading the country for many years to come.&nbsp;

His bare-chested exploits have conjured for many Russians an image of Putin, 68, as an in-shape role model.&nbsp;

Video released by the Kremlin from inside an all-terrain vehicle showed the president at the wheel of a vehicle that pulled branches from overhanging trees as it barrelled over snow-laden tracks through dense forests of birch.&nbsp;

The two men were seen trudging through knee-deep snow and inspecting wooden ruins in a barren forest before taking careful steps across a rope bridge over a frozen river.&nbsp;

Putin, who loves to cultivate a virile man-of-action image, was shown in 2017 on holiday with Shoigu spear-fishing in a camouflage wetsuit, piloting a powerboat and catching some rays.&nbsp;

Last year, he bestowed a 65th birthday honour on Shoigu, his loyal ally in the Syria conflict and companion on wilderness trips.&nbsp;

Putin sent Shoigu birthday greetings and signed a decree awarding him one of Russia's highest decorations, the 'For Merit to the Fatherland' medal in the first degree.&nbsp;

The PR display comes one month after Putin jailed his loudest critic Alexei Navalny in one of Russia's most infamous work colonies, a move the opposition figure's allies and Western countries said was a pretext to silence dissent.&nbsp;

Putin's previous made-for-TV exploits have not been without controversy.&nbsp;

During a 2011 dive in the Black Sea, he allegedly discovered two 15th-century amphoras, a find mocked in the independent media because they were both suspiciously without algae or other sea life. His spokesman later admitted that the scene had been staged.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin, during a holiday in Siberia with Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, piloted an all-terrain vehicle through thick woodland and traversed a swaying rope bridge, Kremlin footage showed.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, during a holiday in Siberia with Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, piloted an all-terrain vehicle through thick woodland and traversed a swaying rope bridge, Kremlin footage showed. Putin routinely appears on state television participating in various outdoor pursuits to project the image of a healthy and robust leader capable of leading the country for many years to come. His bare-chested exploits have conjured for many Russians an image of Putin, 68, as an in-shape role model. Video released by the Kremlin from inside an all-terrain vehicle showed the president at the wheel of a vehicle that pulled branches from overhanging trees as it barrelled over snow-laden tracks through dense forests of birch. The two men were seen trudging through knee-deep snow and inspecting wooden ruins in a barren forest before taking careful steps across a rope bridge over a frozen river. Putin, who loves to cultivate a virile man-of-action image, was shown in 2017 on holiday with Shoigu spear-fishing in a camouflage wetsuit, piloting a powerboat and catching some rays. Last year, he bestowed a 65th birthday honour on Shoigu, his loyal ally in the Syria conflict and companion on wilderness trips. Putin sent Shoigu birthday greetings and signed a decree awarding him one of Russia's highest decorations, the 'For Merit to the Fatherland' medal in the first degree. The PR display comes one month after Putin jailed his loudest critic Alexei Navalny in one of Russia's most infamous work colonies, a move the opposition figure's allies and Western countries said was a pretext to silence dissent. Putin's previous made-for-TV exploits have not been without controversy. During a 2011 dive in the Black Sea, he allegedly discovered two 15th-century amphoras, a find mocked in the independent media because they were both suspiciously without algae or other sea life. His spokesman later admitted that the scene had been staged. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin pilots bumpy all-terrain rig on Siberian holiday 

After the imprisonment this month of the opposition leader Aleksei Navalny, punishing Russia is back on the agenda. On Monday, European Union foreign ministers agreed to impose sanctions on Russian officials, with the final details to come.

Yet such measures are unlikely to satisfy the Kremlin’s critics. They have in their sights a pet project of President Vladimir Putin’s: Nord Stream 2, a pipeline under the Baltic Sea that would supply natural gas directly to Germany.

The project has already survived fierce opposition from many European countries and the United States. And Germany, for which the pipeline is part of Europe’s delicate geopolitical balancing act, is committed to finishing it. With fewer than 100 miles to go, construction is nearly complete. But the treatment of Mr. Navalny and his supporters has once again thrown open the question of the project.

The pipeline’s predecessor, Nord Stream 1 — which was completed in 2012 and also runs undersea directly from Russia to Germany — was controversial, too. Germany’s eastern neighbors feared that Russia might cut off their gas while continuing to supply Germany. In that case, Eastern Europeans would be left to face the Kremlin alone.

But since Nord Stream 1 was finished, Europe’s energy landscape has been transformed. Although Russia supplies around 40 percent of Europe’s natural gas, largely via pipelines running through Belarus and Ukraine, it is no longer the dominant force it once was. In much of Eastern Europe, where gas used to be shipped almost exclusively from Russia, many countries, including Poland and Lithuania, now buy liquefied natural gas from the United States or Norway.

What’s more, the gas infrastructures of European countries are far more interconnected, and a European Union antitrust case against Gazprom, the Russian state-owned company that supplies the pipelines’ gas, has eroded its monopoly power. This means that Nord Stream 2 will have a marginal effect on most European countries’ energy security. It would, in practice, not alter much — which makes it all the more attractive a target for those who wish to check Russian influence.

There is one obvious loser from the pipeline: Ukraine. Much of the Russian gas currently shipped to Europe travels through the country. But if Nord Stream 2 is completed and Russia substantially reduces the gas sent through Ukraine, Kyiv would lose over a billion dollars a year in transit fees. Already a victim of Russian military and economic pressure, that would be an additional blow to the country.

That should be enough to move Germany, a supporter of Ukraine, to cancel the project. But there are plenty of other reasons, too. Few of Germany’s allies support the pipeline, with French leaders the latest to call for its cancellation. Many Europeans see it as a glaring example of German hypocrisy, as Berlin demands that other Europeans play by E.U. rules as it cuts side deals with Moscow.

Perhaps worse, a new pipe carrying fossil fuels under the sea fits poorly with Germany’s self-image as a green energy leader. Chancellor Angela Merkel’s explanation that the pipeline — funded and built by a Russian state-owned company — is a “commercial project” makes Berlin’s policy look only more cynical.

So why does Germany want the pipeline? Supporters in Berlin make two arguments. First, they say it will provide gas to replace coal and nuclear power, which Germany is phasing out. Second, they argue that buying gas from Russia will moderate the Kremlin’s foreign policy. Neither argument is especially compelling.

It may simply be that Ms. Merkel — who this month again ruled out junking the project — has clung to her pipeline for so long that it is now impossible to give it up. Although the Green Party, which will almost certainly play a role in the country’s next coalition government, is dead set against Nord Stream 2, most German politicians seem to agree with her.

That puts Berlin at odds with the United States, which has already slapped financial sanctions on companies helping to build Nord Stream 2, arguing that the pipeline rewards Russia and deepens Europe’s reliance on Russian gas. In large part because it has no effect on their constituents, Nord Stream 2 is a rare bipartisan issue among members of Congress. Imposing sanctions allows American legislators to sound tough on Mr. Putin at little cost.

Underneath the heated assertions and veiled threats lies the mundane reality that Russia’s ability to use gas as a tool of political pressure is already much diminished — something the completion of Nord Stream 2 would do little to change. But canceling the project as punishment for Mr. Navalny’s treatment is unlikely to achieve much, either. He is clearly a threat the Kremlin wishes to vanquish, at some cost.

The clamor over Nord Stream 2 shows, more than anything, a simple truth: When it comes to dealing with Russia, there are very few good options.

(Chris Miller is an assistant professor at the Fletcher School at Tufts University.)

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

After the imprisonment this month of the opposition leader Aleksei Navalny, punishing Russia is back on the agenda. On Monday, European Union foreign ministers agreed to impose sanctions on Russian officials, with the final details to come.

After the imprisonment this month of the opposition leader Aleksei Navalny, punishing Russia is back on the agenda. On Monday, European Union foreign ministers agreed to impose sanctions on Russian officials, with the final details to come. Yet such measures are unlikely to satisfy the Kremlin’s critics. They have in their sights a pet project of President Vladimir Putin’s: Nord Stream 2, a pipeline under the Baltic Sea that would supply natural gas directly to Germany. The project has already survived fierce opposition from many European countries and the United States. And Germany, for which the pipeline is part of Europe’s delicate geopolitical balancing act, is committed to finishing it. With fewer than 100 miles to go, construction is nearly complete. But the treatment of Mr. Navalny and his supporters has once again thrown open the question of the project. The pipeline’s predecessor, Nord Stream 1 — which was completed in 2012 and also runs undersea directly from Russia to Germany — was controversial, too. Germany’s eastern neighbors feared that Russia might cut off their gas while continuing to supply Germany. In that case, Eastern Europeans would be left to face the Kremlin alone. But since Nord Stream 1 was finished, Europe’s energy landscape has been transformed. Although Russia supplies around 40 percent of Europe’s natural gas, largely via pipelines running through Belarus and Ukraine, it is no longer the dominant force it once was. In much of Eastern Europe, where gas used to be shipped almost exclusively from Russia, many countries, including Poland and Lithuania, now buy liquefied natural gas from the United States or Norway. What’s more, the gas infrastructures of European countries are far more interconnected, and a European Union antitrust case against Gazprom, the Russian state-owned company that supplies the pipelines’ gas, has eroded its monopoly power. This means that Nord Stream 2 will have a marginal effect on most European countries’ energy security. It would, in practice, not alter much — which makes it all the more attractive a target for those who wish to check Russian influence. There is one obvious loser from the pipeline: Ukraine. Much of the Russian gas currently shipped to Europe travels through the country. But if Nord Stream 2 is completed and Russia substantially reduces the gas sent through Ukraine, Kyiv would lose over a billion dollars a year in transit fees. Already a victim of Russian military and economic pressure, that would be an additional blow to the country. That should be enough to move Germany, a supporter of Ukraine, to cancel the project. But there are plenty of other reasons, too. Few of Germany’s allies support the pipeline, with French leaders the latest to call for its cancellation. Many Europeans see it as a glaring example of German hypocrisy, as Berlin demands that other Europeans play by E.U. rules as it cuts side deals with Moscow. Perhaps worse, a new pipe carrying fossil fuels under the sea fits poorly with Germany’s self-image as a green energy leader. Chancellor Angela Merkel’s explanation that the pipeline — funded and built by a Russian state-owned company — is a “commercial project” makes Berlin’s policy look only more cynical. So why does Germany want the pipeline? Supporters in Berlin make two arguments. First, they say it will provide gas to replace coal and nuclear power, which Germany is phasing out. Second, they argue that buying gas from Russia will moderate the Kremlin’s foreign policy. Neither argument is especially compelling. It may simply be that Ms. Merkel — who this month again ruled out junking the project — has clung to her pipeline for so long that it is now impossible to give it up. Although the Green Party, which will almost certainly play a role in the country’s next coalition government, is dead set against Nord Stream 2, most German politicians seem to agree with her. That puts Berlin at odds with the United States, which has already slapped financial sanctions on companies helping to build Nord Stream 2, arguing that the pipeline rewards Russia and deepens Europe’s reliance on Russian gas. In large part because it has no effect on their constituents, Nord Stream 2 is a rare bipartisan issue among members of Congress. Imposing sanctions allows American legislators to sound tough on Mr. Putin at little cost. Underneath the heated assertions and veiled threats lies the mundane reality that Russia’s ability to use gas as a tool of political pressure is already much diminished — something the completion of Nord Stream 2 would do little to change. But canceling the project as punishment for Mr. Navalny’s treatment is unlikely to achieve much, either. He is clearly a threat the Kremlin wishes to vanquish, at some cost. The clamor over Nord Stream 2 shows, more than anything, a simple truth: When it comes to dealing with Russia, there are very few good options. (Chris Miller is an assistant professor at the Fletcher School at Tufts University.) (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Will anything stop Putin’s pet project?

Skii-lful evening: Putin and Lukashenko go skiing to discuss important matters

Russian President Vladimir Putin has been in power for 20 years now. He has survived several hurdles- the Second Chenchen war, the 2012 Moscow siege, the annexation of Crimea. Will Alexei Navalny

Gravitas: Will Putin survive the protests?

At the turn of the millenium, a man not many had heard of took over the reigns of Russia — Vladimir Putin became the Prime Minister of Russia in August 1999.

Putin was a political nobody. Even to his wife, the appointment reportedly came as a surprise. He was handpicked by then-President Boris Yeltsin and the KGB. Within three months, he was handed the Kremlin on a plate and was told he would succeed Yeltsin and lead Russia into the 21st century.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-putin-survive-the-protests-361670/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The reason behind this is Yeltsin trusted only family and KGB and Putin is former KGB.

The 47-year-old new President addressed the country wearing an ill-fitted suit. It took Putin's entourage well over a year to find him a suit that fits. It's been 20 years since the baton was handed to a camera-shy Putin and a lot has changed since then.

Now, Vladimir Putin is the founder of the Strongman's Club. He is the longest-serving Russian leader since Joseph Stalin and parallels are drawn between Putin and the Russian Tsars.

Putin is everywhere in Russia — from T-shirts to calendars and mugs. He has transformed Russia into an increasingly dictatorial state where its people have fewer rights and freedoms.&nbsp;

Putin has moved away from the West, embraced isolationism, annexed Crimea, fought in Ukraine and despite everything, he remains Russia's most popular leader.

This is only the fourth time that Putin's ratings have taken a dent.

Previously it was because of unpopular reform to social benefits in 2015, rigged parliamentary elections in 2011 and pension reforms in 2019.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-navalny-built-an-opposition-in-russia-despite-putins-tight-grip-on-power-359519">How Navalny built an opposition in Russia despite Putin's tight grip on power</a>

Today, some 46 per cent of Russians aged 18-24 say they do not approve of Putin. However, these numbers mean nothing — just like Russia's recent referendum that allowed Putin to be President for life.

Russians know that Putin is backed by the oligarchs. They have seen dissidents dying, disappearing or being drugged. The murder of former Russian spy, Alexander Litvinenko in 2016 shocked the world. Rebel Chechnya leader Zelimkhan Yandarbiyev was assassinated in Qatar, Sergei Skripal was targeted in Salisbury, the UK. All the trails lead back to Moscow and the tale, each time, is of Russia's growing appetite for risk.

We often refer to Pakistan as a terror state, which it is, but the Kremlin, too, has its terror squad that takes down dissidents at home and abroad.

In the last 20 years, Putin has tightened his grip on power, changed the constitution to suit his dreams and gone after anyone who came in between. Therefore, Alexei Navalny was no exception, but what Putin did not expect was for Navalny to outmanoeuvre him.

Navalny used his recovery time to investigate attacks on journalists and exposed corruption in Putin's system, which was detailed in a two-hour documentary. Navalny also duped Russian agents into spilling the details of his poisoning. Now, Navalny has kickstarted what Putin fears the most: a Ukraine-style Maidan revolution. From Moscow to St. Petersburg, protesters have taken to the streets across Russia with demonstrations in at least 100 cities. Putin knows the history and he understands the threat such protests come with. He knows that protests eventually toppled the Tsarist rule too.

The Kremlin critic is definitely the biggest challenge to Putin at home in his 20 years of leadership, but Putin has been written off before too. Experts predicted that Putin would be mowed down by a crisis like Yeltsin, but he survived, not only the war in Chechnya but also the 2002 Moscow seige or the annexation of Crimea.

Remember, we are talking about a man who orchestrated the Salisbury poisoning just months before the 2018 FIFA world cup. He is not afraid of interfering with the elections of the world's oldest democracy or hacking into the servers of vaccine manufacturers across the globe.

So, while Navalny is definitely Putin's biggest test till date, predicting Putin's fall would be speaking too soon.

At the turn of the millenium, a man not many had heard of took over the reigns of Russia — Vladimir Putin became the Prime Minister of Russia in August 1999. Putin was a political nobody.

At the turn of the millenium, a man not many had heard of took over the reigns of Russia — Vladimir Putin became the Prime Minister of Russia in August 1999. Putin was a political nobody. Even to his wife, the appointment reportedly came as a surprise. He was handpicked by then-President Boris Yeltsin and the KGB. Within three months, he was handed the Kremlin on a plate and was told he would succeed Yeltsin and lead Russia into the 21st century. The reason behind this is Yeltsin trusted only family and KGB and Putin is former KGB. The 47-year-old new President addressed the country wearing an ill-fitted suit. It took Putin's entourage well over a year to find him a suit that fits. It's been 20 years since the baton was handed to a camera-shy Putin and a lot has changed since then. Now, Vladimir Putin is the founder of the Strongman's Club. He is the longest-serving Russian leader since Joseph Stalin and parallels are drawn between Putin and the Russian Tsars. Putin is everywhere in Russia — from T-shirts to calendars and mugs. He has transformed Russia into an increasingly dictatorial state where its people have fewer rights and freedoms. Putin has moved away from the West, embraced isolationism, annexed Crimea, fought in Ukraine and despite everything, he remains Russia's most popular leader. This is only the fourth time that Putin's ratings have taken a dent. Previously it was because of unpopular reform to social benefits in 2015, rigged parliamentary elections in 2011 and pension reforms in 2019. Also read| How Navalny built an opposition in Russia despite Putin's tight grip on power Today, some 46 per cent of Russians aged 18-24 say they do not approve of Putin. However, these numbers mean nothing — just like Russia's recent referendum that allowed Putin to be President for life. Russians know that Putin is backed by the oligarchs. They have seen dissidents dying, disappearing or being drugged. The murder of former Russian spy, Alexander Litvinenko in 2016 shocked the world. Rebel Chechnya leader Zelimkhan Yandarbiyev was assassinated in Qatar, Sergei Skripal was targeted in Salisbury, the UK. All the trails lead back to Moscow and the tale, each time, is of Russia's growing appetite for risk. We often refer to Pakistan as a terror state, which it is, but the Kremlin, too, has its terror squad that takes down dissidents at home and abroad. In the last 20 years, Putin has tightened his grip on power, changed the constitution to suit his dreams and gone after anyone who came in between. Therefore, Alexei Navalny was no exception, but what Putin did not expect was for Navalny to outmanoeuvre him. Navalny used his recovery time to investigate attacks on journalists and exposed corruption in Putin's system, which was detailed in a two-hour documentary. Navalny also duped Russian agents into spilling the details of his poisoning. Now, Navalny has kickstarted what Putin fears the most: a Ukraine-style Maidan revolution. From Moscow to St. Petersburg, protesters have taken to the streets across Russia with demonstrations in at least 100 cities. Putin knows the history and he understands the threat such protests come with. He knows that protests eventually toppled the Tsarist rule too. The Kremlin critic is definitely the biggest challenge to Putin at home in his 20 years of leadership, but Putin has been written off before too. Experts predicted that Putin would be mowed down by a crisis like Yeltsin, but he survived, not only the war in Chechnya but also the 2002 Moscow seige or the annexation of Crimea. Remember, we are talking about a man who orchestrated the Salisbury poisoning just months before the 2018 FIFA world cup. He is not afraid of interfering with the elections of the world's oldest democracy or hacking into the servers of vaccine manufacturers across the globe. So, while Navalny is definitely Putin's biggest test till date, predicting Putin's fall would be speaking too soon.

From ill-fitting suits to silencing critics: Journey of Vladimir Putin challenged by Alexei Navalny

Alexei Navalny is a man who is rarely named by the Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The Kremlin critic and Putin's latest nightmare is 44-year-old, popular and has support abroad. His poisoning made him a household name and his dramatic arrest heightened his profile. Even in jail, he has outmanoeuvred Vladimir Putin.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-story-of-alexei-navalny-361674/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-navalny-built-an-opposition-in-russia-despite-putins-tight-grip-on-power-359519" hreflang="en">How Navalny built an opposition in Russia despite Putin's tight grip on power</a>

Alexei Navalny is the son of an army officer. Navalny grew up in Obninsk, about 60 miles south-west of Moscow. With a degree in law, he also spent time in the United States on a fellowship at Yale University.

In the year 2000, at the age of 24, he joined the Russian united democratic party, Yabloko. Then, seven years later, he was expelled from the party for his overtly 'nationalistic activities'.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-popularity-slips-as-alexei-navalnys-political-equity-rises-359520" hreflang="en">Putin's popularity slips as Alexei Navalny's political equity rises</a>

During anti-Putin demonstrations in 2011, he was among the first opposition leaders arrested. In 2013, he ran for the Mayor of Moscow but lost to a Kremlin-backed candidate. Since then, Navalny has been barred from running for office. Instead, he has turned his focus on social media to mobilise crowds of mostly young protesters.

He is best known for producing detailed investigations into corruption. Investigations such as 'He Is Not Dimon to You' which accused the former prime minister, Dmitry Medvedev of corruption, 'The case has been solved. I know everyone who tried to kill me' which detailed his poisoning, 'Parazity' that exposed the Kremlin's control on the Russian media and the being 'Putin's Palace: History of the World's Largest Bribe'.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-ill-fitting-suits-to-silencing-critics-journey-of-vladimir-putin-challenged-by-alexei-navalny-361655" hreflang="en">From ill-fitting suits to silencing critics: Journey of Vladimir Putin challenged by Alexei Navalny</a>

Navalny has not just challenged Putin's leadership, but also his strongman image. He has single-handedly put Putin in a catch 22 situation as letting Navalny walk out of prison comes with a huge cost, but keeping him behind bars is not helping either.

His case gave a new life to dying opposition parties. There are a total of 69 of them but only six parties are represented in the Russian parliament, the state duma. Putin's party, United Russia, is the largest faction with 343 of 450 seats. The second-largest faction is the Communist Party of the Russian Federation with 42 seats, followed by LDPR with 40 seats and A Just Russia with 23 seats among two others.

The small numbers have made these parties a rubber-stamp opposition. Putin's party holds the final say over the passage of any measures. Majorly, the ideological differences within the opposition makes a merger quite difficult.

Alexei Navalny emerged as a unifying force as his witty posts, memes and pop culture references got the support of leaders across party lines. However, now that he's in jail, the Russian opposition has once again lost its voice.

Alexei Navalny is a man who is rarely named by the Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Kremlin critic and Putin's latest nightmare is 44-year-old, popular and has support abroad.

Alexei Navalny is a man who is rarely named by the Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Kremlin critic and Putin's latest nightmare is 44-year-old, popular and has support abroad. His poisoning made him a household name and his dramatic arrest heightened his profile. Even in jail, he has outmanoeuvred Vladimir Putin. Also read| How Navalny built an opposition in Russia despite Putin's tight grip on power Alexei Navalny is the son of an army officer. Navalny grew up in Obninsk, about 60 miles south-west of Moscow. With a degree in law, he also spent time in the United States on a fellowship at Yale University. In the year 2000, at the age of 24, he joined the Russian united democratic party, Yabloko. Then, seven years later, he was expelled from the party for his overtly 'nationalistic activities'. Also read| Putin's popularity slips as Alexei Navalny's political equity rises During anti-Putin demonstrations in 2011, he was among the first opposition leaders arrested. In 2013, he ran for the Mayor of Moscow but lost to a Kremlin-backed candidate. Since then, Navalny has been barred from running for office. Instead, he has turned his focus on social media to mobilise crowds of mostly young protesters. He is best known for producing detailed investigations into corruption. Investigations such as 'He Is Not Dimon to You' which accused the former prime minister, Dmitry Medvedev of corruption, 'The case has been solved. I know everyone who tried to kill me' which detailed his poisoning, 'Parazity' that exposed the Kremlin's control on the Russian media and the being 'Putin's Palace: History of the World's Largest Bribe'. Also read| From ill-fitting suits to silencing critics: Journey of Vladimir Putin challenged by Alexei Navalny Navalny has not just challenged Putin's leadership, but also his strongman image. He has single-handedly put Putin in a catch 22 situation as letting Navalny walk out of prison comes with a huge cost, but keeping him behind bars is not helping either. His case gave a new life to dying opposition parties. There are a total of 69 of them but only six parties are represented in the Russian parliament, the state duma. Putin's party, United Russia, is the largest faction with 343 of 450 seats. The second-largest faction is the Communist Party of the Russian Federation with 42 seats, followed by LDPR with 40 seats and A Just Russia with 23 seats among two others. The small numbers have made these parties a rubber-stamp opposition. Putin's party holds the final say over the passage of any measures. Majorly, the ideological differences within the opposition makes a merger quite difficult. Alexei Navalny emerged as a unifying force as his witty posts, memes and pop culture references got the support of leaders across party lines. However, now that he's in jail, the Russian opposition has once again lost its voice.

Who is Alexei Navalny, apart from being Putin's nightmare?

A Russian court jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny on Tuesday (February 2), ignoring the West in a ruling the opposition politician blamed on President Vladimir Putin's personal hatred and fear of him.

Audio of Navalny's speech calling Putin 'the Underwear Poisoner' before being jailed

Russian police raided the Moscow offices of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's group on Wednesday (January 27) and searched several other properties, including a flat where his wife was, one of his allies said.

Russian Police raid Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's properties

Russian Police raid studio which produces Navalny's videos

Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned of tech giants' increasing influence that he said competed with states. Lebanon has rolled out tanks amid anti-lockdown protests. Meanwhile, Youtube has suspended former US President Donald Trump's channel indefinitely. Read this and much more in Top 10 world news. &nbsp; &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazeneca-clarifies-will-attend-eu-meeting-on-covid-19-vaccine-delay-359668">AstraZeneca clarifies will attend EU meeting on Covid-19 vaccine delay</a>

<img alt="Astrazeneca" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="222a8569-457a-453c-a08d-7390d01533e7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/astrazeneca.JPG" />

The EU contract with AstraZeneca is an advance purchase agreement for the supply of at least 300 million doses provided that the vaccine is approved as safe and effective.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-biden-putin-phone-call-russias-lower-house-of-parliament-approves-new-start-nuclear-control-treaty-359670">After Biden-Putin phone call, Russia's lower house of Parliament approves New START nuclear control treaty</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-biden-putin-phone-call-russias-lower-house-of-parliament-approves-new-start-nuclear-control-treaty-359670"><img alt="Biden Putin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d7f04d8-0ab5-40c2-93bc-626994acdacd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Biden%20putin.JPG" /></a> 
 
The treaty which expires next week on February 5 sets the limits to the number of nuclear warheads, missiles and bombers that the US and Russia can possess.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-warns-against-influence-of-tech-giants-says-they-compete-with-states-359693">Putin warns against influence of tech giants, says they 'compete' with states</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-warns-against-influence-of-tech-giants-says-they-compete-with-states-359693"><img alt="Putin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4fc84eed-37e0-4543-b5b4-3994319ae61c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Putin_2.JPG" /></a> 
 
Putin sounded the warning during his virtual address at Davos virtual economic summit

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-rolls-out-tanks-amid-anti-lockdown-protests-359659">Lebanon rolls out tanks amid anti-lockdown protests</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-rolls-out-tanks-amid-anti-lockdown-protests-359659"><img alt="Lebanon" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="40ec4eaf-bc37-43c6-ade8-37cdc7aefce7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Lebanon.JPG" /></a> 
 
The coronavirus cases have spiked in the country after families reportedly gathered during the year-end holidays and authorities allowed bars to stay open until 3:00 am.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-deploys-anal-swabs-to-test-for-coronavirus-359649">China deploys anal swabs to test for coronavirus</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-deploys-anal-swabs-to-test-for-coronavirus-359649"><img alt="China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="25a64ae8-5104-45e8-9777-dd8ade0e4376" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/china.JPG" /></a> 
 
Doctors in China say the said way can be more effective in detecting the virus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-blocks-president-bidens-100-day-pause-on-deportations-359694">US judge blocks President Biden's 100-day pause on deportations</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-blocks-president-bidens-100-day-pause-on-deportations-359694"><img alt="Biden" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="af43fa11-f860-44fb-b1fd-554dbfdd2083" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/biden_0.JPG" /></a> 
 
Judge Drew Tipton granted a 14-day temporary restraining order until the case could be further examined on request by state’s Republican attorney-general Ken Paxton.

Youtube suspends Donald Trump from platform indefinitely 
https://www.wionews.com/world/youtube-suspends-donald-trump-from-platform-indefinitely-359653 
Number of social media platforms including Twitter, and Facebook have taken action against Trump after the January 6 Capitol Hill violence

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-waging-psychological-war-iran-says-359699">Israel waging 'psychological war', Iran says</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-waging-psychological-war-iran-says-359699"><img alt="Iran Israel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4cab3683-a30f-4f8b-8002-3c894c6422eb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Iran_8.JPG" /></a> 
 
Mahmoud Vaezi, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani's chief of staff, also vowed that his country was ready and willing to defend itself.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazon-set-to-launch-in-poland-359689">Amazon set to launch in Poland</a>

<img alt="Amazon" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f44c38d7-e8fa-4977-b912-2d7ae15b13c1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/amazon_0.JPG" /> 
Poland, which has a population of 38 million people, is one of the last major European countries without a dedicated Amazon website.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-covid-variant-sufferers-cough-more-but-smell-less-affected-survey-359680">UK COVID variant sufferers cough more, but smell less affected: Survey</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-covid-variant-sufferers-cough-more-but-smell-less-affected-survey-359680"><img alt="Covid" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fa3833f4-be1b-4a83-a5bc-a75e6dea5bbc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/covid_1.JPG" /></a> 
 
The variant, identified in southeast England in December, is thought to be more transmissible, and could also be associated with higher mortality, though data suggesting increased death rates are uncertain and not yet strong.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned of tech giants' increasing influence that he said competed with states. Lebanon has rolled out tanks amid anti-lockdown protests.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned of tech giants' increasing influence that he said competed with states. Lebanon has rolled out tanks amid anti-lockdown protests. Meanwhile, Youtube has suspended former US President Donald Trump's channel indefinitely. Read this and much more in Top 10 world news. AstraZeneca clarifies will attend EU meeting on Covid-19 vaccine delay The EU contract with AstraZeneca is an advance purchase agreement for the supply of at least 300 million doses provided that the vaccine is approved as safe and effective. After Biden-Putin phone call, Russia's lower house of Parliament approves New START nuclear control treaty The treaty which expires next week on February 5 sets the limits to the number of nuclear warheads, missiles and bombers that the US and Russia can possess. Putin warns against influence of tech giants, says they 'compete' with states Putin sounded the warning during his virtual address at Davos virtual economic summit Lebanon rolls out tanks amid anti-lockdown protests The coronavirus cases have spiked in the country after families reportedly gathered during the year-end holidays and authorities allowed bars to stay open until 3:00 am. China deploys anal swabs to test for coronavirus Doctors in China say the said way can be more effective in detecting the virus. US judge blocks President Biden's 100-day pause on deportations Judge Drew Tipton granted a 14-day temporary restraining order until the case could be further examined on request by state’s Republican attorney-general Ken Paxton. Youtube suspends Donald Trump from platform indefinitely https://www.wionews.com/world/youtube-suspends-donald-trump-from-platform-indefinitely-359653 Number of social media platforms including Twitter, and Facebook have taken action against Trump after the January 6 Capitol Hill violence Israel waging 'psychological war', Iran says Mahmoud Vaezi, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani's chief of staff, also vowed that his country was ready and willing to defend itself. Amazon set to launch in Poland Poland, which has a population of 38 million people, is one of the last major European countries without a dedicated Amazon website. UK COVID variant sufferers cough more, but smell less affected: Survey The variant, identified in southeast England in December, is thought to be more transmissible, and could also be associated with higher mortality, though data suggesting increased death rates are uncertain and not yet strong.

Top 10 world news: Putin warns against tech giants, Youtube suspends Trump channel, and more

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday warned against the increasing influence large tech companies wield. He said &nbsp;that these tech giants were "competing" with states. Russia is ramping up pressure on foreign internet companies. The companies usually are not subject to state censorship that majority of Russian media outlets work under.

Putin sounded the warning during his virtual address at Davos virtual economic summit. He said it was unclear where the line should be drawn between &nbsp;a "succesful global business" and "attempts to crudely, at their own discretion, control society".

"We just saw it all in the United States," he added, referring to riots earlier this month in Washington led by supporters of then US President Donald Trump.

Moscow earlier this week accused US tech giants of interfering in Russia's internal affairs, in particular during anti-government protests led by supporters of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny on Saturday.&nbsp;

Ahead of the rallies, Russia's media watchdog Roskomnadzor ordered several online platforms, including YouTube and Instagram, to delete posts by users calling for protesters to attend demonstrations.

On Wednesday, the chairman of the lower house State Duma's foreign interference committee, Vasily Piskaryov, said that the head of TikTok's Russian branch had been invited to parliament for a conversation.&nbsp;

\Piskaryov was cited by the TASS news agency as saying that "questions had piled up" about the China-based video-sharing service.

In recent months, TikTok has emerged as a popular platform for young Russians to express their political views.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-biden-putin-phone-call-russias-lower-house-of-parliament-approves-new-start-nuclear-control-treaty-359670">After Biden-Putin phone call, Russia's lower house of Parliament approves New START nuclear control treaty</a>

Hashtags dedicated to Navalny have been trending on TikTok, garnering more than 1.5 billion views, after the anti-corruption campaigner was jailed on his return to Russia from Germany.

(With AFP inputs)

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday warned against the increasing influence large tech companies wield. He said that these tech giants were "competing" with states.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday warned against the increasing influence large tech companies wield. He said that these tech giants were "competing" with states. Russia is ramping up pressure on foreign internet companies. The companies usually are not subject to state censorship that majority of Russian media outlets work under. Putin sounded the warning during his virtual address at Davos virtual economic summit. He said it was unclear where the line should be drawn between a "succesful global business" and "attempts to crudely, at their own discretion, control society". "We just saw it all in the United States," he added, referring to riots earlier this month in Washington led by supporters of then US President Donald Trump. Moscow earlier this week accused US tech giants of interfering in Russia's internal affairs, in particular during anti-government protests led by supporters of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny on Saturday. Ahead of the rallies, Russia's media watchdog Roskomnadzor ordered several online platforms, including YouTube and Instagram, to delete posts by users calling for protesters to attend demonstrations. On Wednesday, the chairman of the lower house State Duma's foreign interference committee, Vasily Piskaryov, said that the head of TikTok's Russian branch had been invited to parliament for a conversation. \Piskaryov was cited by the TASS news agency as saying that "questions had piled up" about the China-based video-sharing service. In recent months, TikTok has emerged as a popular platform for young Russians to express their political views. Also Read | After Biden-Putin phone call, Russia's lower house of Parliament approves New START nuclear control treaty Hashtags dedicated to Navalny have been trending on TikTok, garnering more than 1.5 billion views, after the anti-corruption campaigner was jailed on his return to Russia from Germany. (With AFP inputs)

Putin warns against influence of tech giants, says they 'compete' with states

Russia's lower house of Parliament today approved the extension of the New <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-proposes-to-renew-new-start-nuclear-treaty-between-us-and-russia-358434">START</a> nuclear arms control treaty with the United States after the Kremlin said both countries had reached a deal to extend the pact which was signed in 2010.

Watch:

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All 399 lawmakers voted for the extension with no absentations. The country's upper house is due to vote on the extension later today. After the legislation is approved by both Houses it will be signed by President Putin.

The treaty which expires next week on February 5 sets the limits to the number of nuclear warheads, missiles and bombers that the US and Russia can possess.&nbsp;

The bill to extend the pact was ratified after President Putin had a phone call with new US President Joe Biden on Tuesday. "They discussed both countries’ willingness to extend New START for five years, agreeing to have their teams work urgently to complete the extension by Feb. 5," the White House had said.

"They also agreed to explore strategic stability discussions on a range of arms control and emerging security issues," the White House added.

The New START caps the number of nuclear warheads between Moscow and Washington to 1,550.&nbsp;The Russian President hailed the move saying the "extension of New START is step in the right direction".

The US had signed the pact&nbsp;during Obama's presidency. However, tensions continue between the two countries as the White House said: "President Biden made clear that the United States will act firmly in defense of its national interests in response to actions by Russia that harm us or our allies.

Biden raised other matter of concern with the Russian president including the Alexei Navalny poisoning row and the cyber attack by alleged Russian hackers who targeted US tech company SolarWinds Corp recently.

Russia's lower house of Parliament today approved the extension of the New START nuclear arms control treaty with the United States after the Kremlin said both countries had reached a deal to extend the pact which was signed in 2010.

Russia's lower house of Parliament today approved the extension of the New START nuclear arms control treaty with the United States after the Kremlin said both countries had reached a deal to extend the pact which was signed in 2010. Watch: All 399 lawmakers voted for the extension with no absentations. The country's upper house is due to vote on the extension later today. After the legislation is approved by both Houses it will be signed by President Putin. The treaty which expires next week on February 5 sets the limits to the number of nuclear warheads, missiles and bombers that the US and Russia can possess. The bill to extend the pact was ratified after President Putin had a phone call with new US President Joe Biden on Tuesday. "They discussed both countries’ willingness to extend New START for five years, agreeing to have their teams work urgently to complete the extension by Feb. 5," the White House had said. "They also agreed to explore strategic stability discussions on a range of arms control and emerging security issues," the White House added. The New START caps the number of nuclear warheads between Moscow and Washington to 1,550. The Russian President hailed the move saying the "extension of New START is step in the right direction". The US had signed the pact during Obama's presidency. However, tensions continue between the two countries as the White House said: "President Biden made clear that the United States will act firmly in defense of its national interests in response to actions by Russia that harm us or our allies. Biden raised other matter of concern with the Russian president including the Alexei Navalny poisoning row and the cyber attack by alleged Russian hackers who targeted US tech company SolarWinds Corp recently.

After Biden-Putin phone call, Russia's lower house of Parliament approves New START nuclear control treaty

Russia and the United States reportedly struck a deal to extend their New START nuclear arms control treaty on Moscow's terms, Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said on Wednesday, as claimed by RIA news.

On Tuesday, Russia claimed that the pact would be preserved in the aftermath of talks between US President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. The world’s two biggest nuclear powers will now extend their treaty.

Kremlin’s announcement was not confirmed by the White House, but Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin had spoken about the issue on telephone, and had agreed to complete the extension by February 5, for the treaty expires then.

The New START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) was signed in 2010 to limit the number of nuclear warheads deployed by the US and Russia to 1,550 each.&nbsp;

This also includes limiting the number of land and submarine based missiles and bombers that deliver these warheads.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/how-navalny-built-an-opposition-in-russia-despite-putins-tight-grip-on-power-359519" hreflang="en">How Navalny built an opposition in Russia despite Putin's tight grip on power</a>

Under former US President Donald Trump, the countries had failed to reach an extension. Trump had reportedly attached conditions which were rejected by Russia.

According to the Kremlin, Putin and Biden “expressed satisfaction” after speaking to each other, further confirming the extension of the pact, and that it would be renewed in the next few days.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/putins-popularity-slips-as-alexei-navalnys-political-equity-rises-359520" hreflang="en">Putin's popularity slips as Alexei Navalny's political equity rises</a>

"They discussed both countries’ willingness to extend New START for five years, agreeing to have their teams work urgently to complete the extension by Feb. 5," the White House said.&nbsp;

"They also agreed to explore strategic stability discussions on a range of arms control and emerging security issues”, it added.

Russia and the United States reportedly struck a deal to extend their New START nuclear arms control treaty on Moscow's terms, Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said on Wednesday, as claimed by RIA news.

Russia and the United States reportedly struck a deal to extend their New START nuclear arms control treaty on Moscow's terms, Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said on Wednesday, as claimed by RIA news. On Tuesday, Russia claimed that the pact would be preserved in the aftermath of talks between US President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. The world’s two biggest nuclear powers will now extend their treaty. Kremlin’s announcement was not confirmed by the White House, but Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin had spoken about the issue on telephone, and had agreed to complete the extension by February 5, for the treaty expires then. The New START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) was signed in 2010 to limit the number of nuclear warheads deployed by the US and Russia to 1,550 each. This also includes limiting the number of land and submarine based missiles and bombers that deliver these warheads. Also read: How Navalny built an opposition in Russia despite Putin's tight grip on power Under former US President Donald Trump, the countries had failed to reach an extension. Trump had reportedly attached conditions which were rejected by Russia. According to the Kremlin, Putin and Biden “expressed satisfaction” after speaking to each other, further confirming the extension of the pact, and that it would be renewed in the next few days. Also read: Putin's popularity slips as Alexei Navalny's political equity rises "They discussed both countries’ willingness to extend New START for five years, agreeing to have their teams work urgently to complete the extension by Feb. 5," the White House said. "They also agreed to explore strategic stability discussions on a range of arms control and emerging security issues”, it added.

Nuclear arms control treaty with United States agreed on our terms: Russia

The Kremlin today accused US tech giants of interference in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/navalnys-wife-among-nearly-2000-people-detained-in-russia-at-rallies-358823">Navalny</a> protests which broke out throughout Russia over the weekend even as Navalny's aides called for new anti-government rallies.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/navalny-described-as-the-man-putin-fears-the-most-359015/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Kremlin had earlier accused the United States of interfering in Russia's domestic affairs after large scale protests erupted over the weekend even as 3,500 demonstrators were detained across the country on Saturday. The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-accuses-us-diplomats-of-publishing-navalny-rally-routes-358864">US</a> embassy in Moscow had issued a "Demonstration Alert" warning US citizens to avoid the protests and naming the venues in Russian cities where protesters planned to gather.

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin in a video call to students said luxury Black Sea property does not belong to him after Navalny accused the Russian leader of possessing the property.

"Nothing that is listed there as my property belongs to me or my close relatives, and never did," Putin said during a video call with students.

After the weekend protests, the United States urged Russian authorities to release protesters detained at the demonstration.

Navalny had asked Russians to come out on the streets after he was arrested by authorities last week soon after he landed in Moscow. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The Russian foreign ministry had said that US embassy representatives will be summoned and would have to "explain themselves".

The US embassy spokesman Rebecca Ross had said: "We're watching reports of protests in 38 Russian cities, arrests of 350+ peaceful protesters and journalists. The US&nbsp;supports the right of all people to peaceful protest, freedom of expression. Steps being taken by Russian authorities are suppressing those rights."

The United States government in a statement said: "Continued efforts to suppress Russians’ rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, the arrest of opposition figure Alexei Navalny, and the crackdown on protests that followed are troubling indications of further restrictions on civil society and fundamental freedoms."

The US government urged Russian authorities to release "all those detained for exercising their universal rights and for the immediate and unconditional release of Alexei Navalny."

The Kremlin today accused US tech giants of interference in Navalny protests which broke out throughout Russia over the weekend even as Navalny's aides called for new anti-government rallies.

The Kremlin today accused US tech giants of interference in Navalny protests which broke out throughout Russia over the weekend even as Navalny's aides called for new anti-government rallies. Watch: Kremlin had earlier accused the United States of interfering in Russia's domestic affairs after large scale protests erupted over the weekend even as 3,500 demonstrators were detained across the country on Saturday. The US embassy in Moscow had issued a "Demonstration Alert" warning US citizens to avoid the protests and naming the venues in Russian cities where protesters planned to gather. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin in a video call to students said luxury Black Sea property does not belong to him after Navalny accused the Russian leader of possessing the property. "Nothing that is listed there as my property belongs to me or my close relatives, and never did," Putin said during a video call with students. After the weekend protests, the United States urged Russian authorities to release protesters detained at the demonstration. Navalny had asked Russians to come out on the streets after he was arrested by authorities last week soon after he landed in Moscow. The Russian foreign ministry had said that US embassy representatives will be summoned and would have to "explain themselves". The US embassy spokesman Rebecca Ross had said: "We're watching reports of protests in 38 Russian cities, arrests of 350+ peaceful protesters and journalists. The US supports the right of all people to peaceful protest, freedom of expression. Steps being taken by Russian authorities are suppressing those rights." The United States government in a statement said: "Continued efforts to suppress Russians’ rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, the arrest of opposition figure Alexei Navalny, and the crackdown on protests that followed are troubling indications of further restrictions on civil society and fundamental freedoms." The US government urged Russian authorities to release "all those detained for exercising their universal rights and for the immediate and unconditional release of Alexei Navalny."

Putin rejects Black Sea property belongs to him after Navalny's accusation

President Vladimir Putin would respond in kind if the new U.S. administration showed a willingness to talk, a Kremlin spokesman said on Sunday, while also accusing Washington of meddling in mass protests in support of detained opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

Kremlin accuses US of meddling in affairs, but says ready to talk

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