Mikhail Mishustin, the man likely to be Russia's next prime minister after President Vladimir Putin proposed him on Wednesday, is a little-known figure to the wider public who has headed the country's tax service for a decade.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-putin-proposes-referendum-to-boost-russian-parliaments-powers-274453">Also Read: Now, Putin proposes referendum to boost Russian parliament's powers</a>

The 53-year-old Muscovite trained as an engineer and has a PhD in economics, according to his official biography.

He was appointed head of the tax service in 2010 after being proposed by then-finance minister Alexei Kudrin, known for his outspoken liberal stance.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-pm-medvedev-resigns-after-putin-proposes-to-boost-parliaments-powers-274458">Also read: PM Medvedev's Russian government resigns after Putin proposes to boost Parliament's powers</a> 
&nbsp;

He has been in the post ever since and is praised for streamlining the service formerly notorious for red tape, mountains of paperwork and long queues.

After Putin proposed Mishustin, Rossiya-24 state television reported that he "created the best tax collection system in the world."

He was picked as premier to create a "more competent leadership," Dmitri Trenin, head of the Carnegie Moscow Centre, wrote on Twitter.

Mishustin is a "neutral figure" and his candidacy cannot be linked to any "ideological platform," political analyst Ekaterina Schulmann told AFP, adding she doubted he is being groomed as a successor to President Vladimir Putin.

While Putin has criticised the internet and is rarely shown using technology, Mishustin has said Russia needs to adapt its economy, making him closer to predecessor Dmitry Medvedev, a keen user of Apple products.

Mishustin told the Kommersant newspaper last year that Russia needs to adapt to the era of digital technology and artificial intelligence or fall behind.&nbsp;

"We are entering a fourth industrial revolution, this is already a digital world," he said.

"If we don't understand how this world is developing and what its rules are, if we insist our country is part of the old order, this new world will make us its victim."

'Avid hockey player'

Mishustin shares a sporting interest with Putin, as he "regularly plays ice hockey," said state news agency RIA Novosti.

He is a member of the supervisory council of CSKA hockey club, along with Rosneft chief Igor Sechin and other powerful figures.

The RBK business newspaper reported in 2010 that Mishustin has "good contacts in the law enforcement structures. He has often been seen at hockey matches with senior officials from the FSB (security service) and the interior ministry."

While much of his career has been at the tax service, he started out in the 1990s heading an organisation set up to promote international cooperation in computing.

He became deputy head of the tax service in 1998 and shortly afterwards was appointed deputy tax minister, a position he held until 2004. After that, he headed federal agencies that worked on the property and special economic zones.

From 2008 for two years he was president of UFG Asset Management, an international group that has been investing in Russia and other ex-Soviet states since 1996. Deutsche Bank set up a joint venture with the company in 2008.

He reportedly speaks several foreign languages.

Forbes Russia listed him as the 54th best-paid state official in 2015 with earnings of 183.31 million rubles (around $3 million at the current exchange rate).

Mikhail Mishustin, the man likely to be Russia's next prime minister after President Vladimir Putin proposed him on Wednesday, is a little-known figure to the wider public who has headed the country's tax service for a decade.

Mikhail Mishustin, the man likely to be Russia's next prime minister after President Vladimir Putin proposed him on Wednesday, is a little-known figure to the wider public who has headed the country's tax service for a decade. Also Read: Now, Putin proposes referendum to boost Russian parliament's powers The 53-year-old Muscovite trained as an engineer and has a PhD in economics, according to his official biography. He was appointed head of the tax service in 2010 after being proposed by then-finance minister Alexei Kudrin, known for his outspoken liberal stance. Also read: PM Medvedev's Russian government resigns after Putin proposes to boost Parliament's powers He has been in the post ever since and is praised for streamlining the service formerly notorious for red tape, mountains of paperwork and long queues. After Putin proposed Mishustin, Rossiya-24 state television reported that he "created the best tax collection system in the world." He was picked as premier to create a "more competent leadership," Dmitri Trenin, head of the Carnegie Moscow Centre, wrote on Twitter. Mishustin is a "neutral figure" and his candidacy cannot be linked to any "ideological platform," political analyst Ekaterina Schulmann told AFP, adding she doubted he is being groomed as a successor to President Vladimir Putin. While Putin has criticised the internet and is rarely shown using technology, Mishustin has said Russia needs to adapt its economy, making him closer to predecessor Dmitry Medvedev, a keen user of Apple products. Mishustin told the Kommersant newspaper last year that Russia needs to adapt to the era of digital technology and artificial intelligence or fall behind. "We are entering a fourth industrial revolution, this is already a digital world," he said. "If we don't understand how this world is developing and what its rules are, if we insist our country is part of the old order, this new world will make us its victim." 'Avid hockey player' Mishustin shares a sporting interest with Putin, as he "regularly plays ice hockey," said state news agency RIA Novosti. He is a member of the supervisory council of CSKA hockey club, along with Rosneft chief Igor Sechin and other powerful figures. The RBK business newspaper reported in 2010 that Mishustin has "good contacts in the law enforcement structures. He has often been seen at hockey matches with senior officials from the FSB (security service) and the interior ministry." While much of his career has been at the tax service, he started out in the 1990s heading an organisation set up to promote international cooperation in computing. He became deputy head of the tax service in 1998 and shortly afterwards was appointed deputy tax minister, a position he held until 2004. After that, he headed federal agencies that worked on the property and special economic zones. From 2008 for two years he was president of UFG Asset Management, an international group that has been investing in Russia and other ex-Soviet states since 1996. Deutsche Bank set up a joint venture with the company in 2008. He reportedly speaks several foreign languages. Forbes Russia listed him as the 54th best-paid state official in 2015 with earnings of 183.31 million rubles (around $3 million at the current exchange rate).

Mikhail Mishustin: Tax Service head and Hockey player picked by Putin as Russian PM

Over the last 2 decades, there has been only one static feature in global politics. Russia's President Vladimir Putin has been the power centre in Russia. With the plans to rejig the country's constitution, Putin might consolidate his absolute power. WION's Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: Big power play by Vladimir Putin?

How does India view the changing political dynamics in Russia? How does India view it? India has a rich tradition of democracy. Will that reputation be hurt by siding with Putin? Is China the only thorn in India-Russia ties. On #WionEdit, Palki Sharma explores.

Wion Edit: Is China the only thorn in India-Russia ties?

Russian President Vladimir Putin nominated Mikhail Mishustin, a 53-year-old chief of the Russian Federal Tax Service for the position of Russian prime minister after Dmitry Medvedev resigned on January 15. Watch report:

WION Dispatch: Putin appoints Mikhail Mishustin as PM of Russia

A day after President Putin named Mikhail Mishustin as the new prime minister of the country, the Parliament members approved his candidacy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mikhail-mishustin-tax-service-head-and-hockey-player-picked-by-putin-as-russian-pm-274590">Also Read:&nbsp;Mikhail Mishustin: Tax Service head and Hockey player picked by Putin as Russian PM</a>

All MPs voted in Mishustin's favour with Communist MPs abstaining.

Mishusti, 53, who is the head of the tax service had said, "People should already now be feeling real changes for the better, so far this is happening far from everywhere."

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-pm-and-government-resign-after-putin-calls-for-constitution-changes-274517/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"To develop further and ensure further growth of GDP we need primarily to stimulate the growth of investment... to restore trust that has perhaps been lost between the authorities and business," he said, adding that he was open "constructive criticism".

Putin had shocked the nation on Wednesday after abruptly proposing new powers were&nbsp;needed for the Russian Parliament leading to the resignation of now caretaker PM Medvedev, who is one of Putin's oldest allies and served as president from 2008 to 2012.

In a speech, Putin said constitutional changes were needed which would give more powers to the country's Parliament allowing the lawmakers to choose the prime minister and cabinet.

Putin is due to step down as president in 2024, according to Russian law, a president cannot serve more than two terms. Putin returned to the presidency in 2012 after a stint as prime minister.

Russia goes to the polls in 2021 with all eyes on Putin's next move.

A day after President Putin named Mikhail Mishustin as the new prime minister of the country, the Parliament members approved his candidacy. Also Read: Mikhail Mishustin: Tax Service head and Hockey player picked by Putin as Russian PM All MPs voted in Mishustin's favour with Communist MPs abstaining.

A day after President Putin named Mikhail Mishustin as the new prime minister of the country, the Parliament members approved his candidacy. Also Read: Mikhail Mishustin: Tax Service head and Hockey player picked by Putin as Russian PM All MPs voted in Mishustin's favour with Communist MPs abstaining. Mishusti, 53, who is the head of the tax service had said, "People should already now be feeling real changes for the better, so far this is happening far from everywhere." Watch Video: "To develop further and ensure further growth of GDP we need primarily to stimulate the growth of investment... to restore trust that has perhaps been lost between the authorities and business," he said, adding that he was open "constructive criticism". Putin had shocked the nation on Wednesday after abruptly proposing new powers were needed for the Russian Parliament leading to the resignation of now caretaker PM Medvedev, who is one of Putin's oldest allies and served as president from 2008 to 2012. In a speech, Putin said constitutional changes were needed which would give more powers to the country's Parliament allowing the lawmakers to choose the prime minister and cabinet. Putin is due to step down as president in 2024, according to Russian law, a president cannot serve more than two terms. Putin returned to the presidency in 2012 after a stint as prime minister. Russia goes to the polls in 2021 with all eyes on Putin's next move.

Russian lawmakers overwhelmingly approve Mikhail Mishustin as PM

The World is One News, WION examines global issues with in-depth analysis. We provide much more than the news of the day. Our aim is to empower people to explore their world.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - January 16, 2020

The entire Russian government has resigned. Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, along with his cabinet has called it quits. The comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin's proposal to make major changes to the Russian constitution. WION's Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: Russian government resigns as Putin proposes constitutional rejig

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - January 15, 2020

Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev resigned today shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a referendum to give the Parliament more powers to choose the prime minister in a speech.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-putin-proposes-referendum-to-boost-russian-parliaments-powers-274453">Also Read: Now, Putin proposes referendum to boost Russian parliament's powers</a>

Medvedev said the proposals would make significant changes to the country's balance of power and so "the government in its current form has resigned."

Medvedev made the surprise announcement on Russia's state TV while sitting next to Putin who thanked him for his work.

The Russian prime minister submitted his resignation to President Putin, reports said.&nbsp;"All further decisions will be taken by the president," Medvedev stated.

Putin named Mikhail Mishustin, Russia's head of tax service as a replacement for Medvedev.

In a speech, the Russian president had said, "It was necessary to conduct a vote by the country's citizens on an entire package of proposed amendments to the country's constitution."

Putin, 67, is set to step down as president in 2024 with Russia set for parliamentary elections in 2021. Under the Russian constitution, a person cannot serve more than two successive presidential terms.

In December, during a marathon press conference, the Russian president had dropped broad hints that he might not seek another term in 2024.

Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev resigned today shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a referendum to give the Parliament more powers to choose the prime minister in a speech.

Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev resigned today shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a referendum to give the Parliament more powers to choose the prime minister in a speech. Also Read: Now, Putin proposes referendum to boost Russian parliament's powers Medvedev said the proposals would make significant changes to the country's balance of power and so "the government in its current form has resigned." Medvedev made the surprise announcement on Russia's state TV while sitting next to Putin who thanked him for his work. The Russian prime minister submitted his resignation to President Putin, reports said. "All further decisions will be taken by the president," Medvedev stated. Putin named Mikhail Mishustin, Russia's head of tax service as a replacement for Medvedev. In a speech, the Russian president had said, "It was necessary to conduct a vote by the country's citizens on an entire package of proposed amendments to the country's constitution." Putin, 67, is set to step down as president in 2024 with Russia set for parliamentary elections in 2021. Under the Russian constitution, a person cannot serve more than two successive presidential terms. In December, during a marathon press conference, the Russian president had dropped broad hints that he might not seek another term in 2024.

PM Medvedev's Russian government resigns after Putin proposes to boost Parliament's powers

Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev submitted his resignation to President Vladimir Putin on January 15. Putin thanked Medvedev for his service but noted that the prime minister's Cabinet failed to fulfil all the objectives set for it. Medvedev has served as Russia's prime minister since 2012. He spent four years before that as president in 2008-2012.

Fineprint: Russian PM resigns after Putin plans sweeping constitutional changes

Russian President Vladimir Putin today proposed a referendum to give the Parliament more powers to choose the prime minister in a speech, a move which could have far-reaching consequences for the country's future.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-inaugurates-rail-route-to-annexed-crimea-269804">Also Read:&nbsp;Russian President Putin inaugurates rail route to annexed Crimea</a>

"I consider it necessary to conduct a vote by the country's citizens on an entire package of proposed amendments to the country's constitution," Putin said, adding, "We will be able to build a strong prosperous Russia only on the basis of respect for public opinion."

"Together we will certainly change life for the better," he added.

Putin, 67, is set to step down as president in 2024 with Russia set for parliamentary elections in 2021. Under the Russian constitution, a person cannot serve more than two successive presidential terms.

"Russia must remain a strong presidential republic," Putin said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-putin-has-lied-about-poland-on-numerous-occasions-pm-mateusz-morawiecki-271197">Read More: President Putin has lied about Poland on numerous occasions, says PM Mateusz Morawiecki</a> 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
In December, during a marathon press conference, the Russian president had dropped broad hints that he might not seek another term in 2024.

"Your humble servant served two successive terms and then stepped down and had the constitutional right to return to the post of president," he said, adding, "but some of our political scientists and activists do not like this and maybe this could be removed, possibly."

“One thing that could be changed about these (presidential) terms is removing the clause about 'successive' (terms)," Putin said.

The Russian presidency was handed to Putin by Boris Yeltsin in 1999, the Russian leader served as president from 2000 to 2008 and then as premier from 2000 to 2012 and then returned as president in 2019.

Russian President Vladimir Putin today proposed a referendum to give the Parliament more powers to choose the prime minister in a speech, a move which could have far-reaching consequences for the country's future.

Russian President Vladimir Putin today proposed a referendum to give the Parliament more powers to choose the prime minister in a speech, a move which could have far-reaching consequences for the country's future. Also Read: Russian President Putin inaugurates rail route to annexed Crimea "I consider it necessary to conduct a vote by the country's citizens on an entire package of proposed amendments to the country's constitution," Putin said, adding, "We will be able to build a strong prosperous Russia only on the basis of respect for public opinion." "Together we will certainly change life for the better," he added. Putin, 67, is set to step down as president in 2024 with Russia set for parliamentary elections in 2021. Under the Russian constitution, a person cannot serve more than two successive presidential terms. "Russia must remain a strong presidential republic," Putin said. Read More: President Putin has lied about Poland on numerous occasions, says PM Mateusz Morawiecki In December, during a marathon press conference, the Russian president had dropped broad hints that he might not seek another term in 2024. "Your humble servant served two successive terms and then stepped down and had the constitutional right to return to the post of president," he said, adding, "but some of our political scientists and activists do not like this and maybe this could be removed, possibly." “One thing that could be changed about these (presidential) terms is removing the clause about 'successive' (terms)," Putin said. The Russian presidency was handed to Putin by Boris Yeltsin in 1999, the Russian leader served as president from 2000 to 2008 and then as premier from 2000 to 2012 and then returned as president in 2019.

Now, Putin proposes referendum to boost Russian parliament's powers

The World is One News, WION examines global issues with in-depth analysis. We provide much more than the news of the day. Our aim is to empower people to explore their world. #WION #WIONspeednews #Australia #China #Iran #US

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - January 14, 2020

The World is One News, WION examines global issues with in-depth analysis. We provide much more than the news of the day. Our aim is to empower people to explore their world. #WION

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - January 13, 2020

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Syria on Tuesday and met with officials including President Bashar Assad.

Putin's West Asia tour; Meets Syrian Prez, Iran's key ally Assad

In less than a month after President Putin said "nobody knows what causes climate change", the Russian government admitted that climate change has had a "prominent and increasing effect" on people's lives.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobody-knows-origins-of-global-climate-change-putin-in-annual-press-conference-269149">Also Read:&nbsp;Nobody knows origins of global climate change, says&nbsp;Putin</a>

The Russian government now aims to "use the advantages" of warmer temperatures.

The document which was published in&nbsp;Russia's government website informs that climate change leads to increased risks to health and also increases the prospect of natural disasters while pushing animals from their natural habitat.

According to the report, the government planned to lower the losses of climate change with measures which included building dams and encouraging the use of drought-resistant crops.

Last month, Russian President Putin while addressing his year-end press conference had said: "Nobody knows the origins of global climate change," adding, "we know that in the history of our Earth there have been periods of warming and cooling and it could depend on processes in the universe."

"A small angle in the axis in the rotation of the Earth or its orbit around the Sun could push the planet into serious climate changes," Putin told 1,800 journalists gathered at the Moscow press conference.

Putin, however, added that the country "must undertake maximum efforts to ensure that the climate does not change dramatically."

"For our country, this process is very serious," he said. "We will undertake efforts to minimise the consequences for our country," Putin asserted.

Putin has repeatedly said climate change was due to man-made emissions while denying several scientific data.

Russia had adopted the Paris climate accord in September last year even as the US pulled out.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had said last month that he was disappointed with the results of COP25, calling it a "lost opportunity".

In less than a month after President Putin said "nobody knows what causes climate change", the Russian government admitted that climate change has had a "prominent and increasing effect" on people's lives.

In less than a month after President Putin said "nobody knows what causes climate change", the Russian government admitted that climate change has had a "prominent and increasing effect" on people's lives. Also Read: Nobody knows origins of global climate change, says Putin The Russian government now aims to "use the advantages" of warmer temperatures. The document which was published in Russia's government website informs that climate change leads to increased risks to health and also increases the prospect of natural disasters while pushing animals from their natural habitat. According to the report, the government planned to lower the losses of climate change with measures which included building dams and encouraging the use of drought-resistant crops. Last month, Russian President Putin while addressing his year-end press conference had said: "Nobody knows the origins of global climate change," adding, "we know that in the history of our Earth there have been periods of warming and cooling and it could depend on processes in the universe." "A small angle in the axis in the rotation of the Earth or its orbit around the Sun could push the planet into serious climate changes," Putin told 1,800 journalists gathered at the Moscow press conference. Putin, however, added that the country "must undertake maximum efforts to ensure that the climate does not change dramatically." "For our country, this process is very serious," he said. "We will undertake efforts to minimise the consequences for our country," Putin asserted. Putin has repeatedly said climate change was due to man-made emissions while denying several scientific data. Russia had adopted the Paris climate accord in September last year even as the US pulled out. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had said last month that he was disappointed with the results of COP25, calling it a "lost opportunity".

Now, Russia unveils new climate plan

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki hit out at Russian President Vladimir Putin for "deliberately lying" about Poland being responsible for the outbreak of World War-II.

"President Putin has lied about Poland on numerous occasions, and he has always done it deliberately," Morawiecki said in a statement, adding, "this usually happens when Russian authorities feel international pressure related to their activities. In recent weeks Russia has suffered several significant defeats."

Putin in a speech recently had blamed Poland for the outbreak of World War-II and also accused it of anti-semitism in pre-war Poland. Putin said the Polish ambassador in Warsaw at the time had put up a Nazi salute in Warsaw and had agreed to sends Jews to Africa.

As the row escalated, the Polish foreign ministry summoned the Russian ambassador to complain about Putin’s comments.

Morawiecki said European Union sanctions on Russia in the aftermath of the Crimea conquest and the recent Russian doping scandal were responsible for Putin taking a shot at his country.

"I consider President Putin's words as an attempt to cover up these problems. The Russian leader is well aware that his accusations have nothing to do with reality –- and that in Poland there are no monuments of Hitler or Stalin," Morawiecki said.&nbsp;

"Such monuments stood here only when they were erected by the aggressors and perpetrators –- the Third Reich and Soviet Russia," he added.

World War-II broke out in on September 1, 1939 after Hitler's Nazi Germany attacked Poland after which the Soviets attacked Poland on September 17 and occupied a part of the country carving Poland into two parts. Germany and the former Soviet Union had&nbsp;secret clause under the Molotov-Ribbentrop pact to split Poland.

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki hit out at Russian President Vladimir Putin for "deliberately lying" about Poland being responsible for the outbreak of World War-II.

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki hit out at Russian President Vladimir Putin for "deliberately lying" about Poland being responsible for the outbreak of World War-II. "President Putin has lied about Poland on numerous occasions, and he has always done it deliberately," Morawiecki said in a statement, adding, "this usually happens when Russian authorities feel international pressure related to their activities. In recent weeks Russia has suffered several significant defeats." Putin in a speech recently had blamed Poland for the outbreak of World War-II and also accused it of anti-semitism in pre-war Poland. Putin said the Polish ambassador in Warsaw at the time had put up a Nazi salute in Warsaw and had agreed to sends Jews to Africa. As the row escalated, the Polish foreign ministry summoned the Russian ambassador to complain about Putin’s comments. Morawiecki said European Union sanctions on Russia in the aftermath of the Crimea conquest and the recent Russian doping scandal were responsible for Putin taking a shot at his country. "I consider President Putin's words as an attempt to cover up these problems. The Russian leader is well aware that his accusations have nothing to do with reality –- and that in Poland there are no monuments of Hitler or Stalin," Morawiecki said. "Such monuments stood here only when they were erected by the aggressors and perpetrators –- the Third Reich and Soviet Russia," he added. World War-II broke out in on September 1, 1939 after Hitler's Nazi Germany attacked Poland after which the Soviets attacked Poland on September 17 and occupied a part of the country carving Poland into two parts. Germany and the former Soviet Union had secret clause under the Molotov-Ribbentrop pact to split Poland.

President Putin has lied about Poland on numerous occasions: PM Mateusz Morawiecki

Russia's President Vladimir Putin has thanked US counterpart Donald Trump for intelligence that helped foil "acts of terrorism" on Russian soil #WION #Putin #DonaldTrump

Putin thanks Trump for foiling New Year attacks

Russian opposition leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-launches-probe-against-kremlin-critic-alexei-navalnys-anti-graft-group-240459">Alexei Navalny's</a> spokesman said he is free after reporting earlier that he was detained as&nbsp;authorities conducted searches during a raid in his headquarters of the anti-corruption foundation in Moscow.

Yarmysh had said on Twitter that Navalny was "forcibly detained and led away", adding, "he did not put up resistance".

Navalny's detention came a day after he said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ruslan-forcibly-conscripted-sent-to-arctic-base-russian-opposition-leader-navalny-270300">forcible military conscription</a> of his key aide Ruslan Shaveddinov to a remote base in the Arctic amounted to kidnapping and illegal imprisonment.

CCTV footage showed police using power tools to pass through the front door. A group of men, some wearing masks could be seen searching the office before one of them covered the CCTV.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-police-raid-opposition-leader-alexei-navalnys-office-270461/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Navalny has called the move part of a coordinated and trumped-up campaign to stifle the Opposition's activities. Navalny's foundation specialises in publishing exposes on corruption by state officials and is the subject of a criminal investigation into alleged money laundering.

The money laundering case was opened in August after Navalny called for protests in Moscow over exclusion of Opposition candidates from local elections.

In October, the justice ministry had formally labelled Navalny's anti-corruption group a "foreign agent" meaning that the group could be subject to spot checks and face bureaucratic scrutiny.

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny's spokesman said he is free after reporting earlier that he was detained as authorities conducted searches during a raid in his headquarters of the anti-corruption foundation in Moscow.

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny's spokesman said he is free after reporting earlier that he was detained as authorities conducted searches during a raid in his headquarters of the anti-corruption foundation in Moscow. Yarmysh had said on Twitter that Navalny was "forcibly detained and led away", adding, "he did not put up resistance". Navalny's detention came a day after he said that the forcible military conscription of his key aide Ruslan Shaveddinov to a remote base in the Arctic amounted to kidnapping and illegal imprisonment. CCTV footage showed police using power tools to pass through the front door. A group of men, some wearing masks could be seen searching the office before one of them covered the CCTV. Watch Video: Navalny has called the move part of a coordinated and trumped-up campaign to stifle the Opposition's activities. Navalny's foundation specialises in publishing exposes on corruption by state officials and is the subject of a criminal investigation into alleged money laundering. The money laundering case was opened in August after Navalny called for protests in Moscow over exclusion of Opposition candidates from local elections. In October, the justice ministry had formally labelled Navalny's anti-corruption group a "foreign agent" meaning that the group could be subject to spot checks and face bureaucratic scrutiny.

Russian authorities raid opposition leader Navalny's office

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny has hit out at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-opens-investigation-into-space-center-fraud-after-putin-rebuke-263614">President Vladimir Putin</a> over an alleged forcible military conscription of one of his allies to a remote airbase in the Arctic.

Navalny supporters said the incident amounted to "kidnapping".

Navalny said his key aide Ruslan Shaveddinov was detained by police at his Moscow flat and went missing only to resurface in Novaya Zemlya archipelago in the Arctic Ocean.

Shaveddinov phone SIM was disabled, Navalny informed.

The opposition leader said the activist&nbsp;who had earlier tried to appeal his conscription on medical grounds&nbsp;managed to make a phone call using someone else's phone.

The opposition has accused the Putin government of Soviet-style political suppression in which detainees were sent to a remote area. It said that Ruslan has been sent to a base where only professional soldiers serve.

Shaveddinov lawyer Arkady Chaplygin said that nobody does military service by conscription at Novaya Zemlya.&nbsp;

"People who serve there are professional soldiers. Military activity in Belushya Guba is mostly about some scientific military studies. There is no place for a conscript there. Effectively Ruslan was sent to a labour camp in exile to serve his time," Chaplygin said.

Ivan Zhdanov, Russian opposition activist said: "We fully understand that Ruslan's kidnapping is a part of the strategy aimed to pressure the Anti-Corruption Foundation.

"It also includes freezing accounts, personal court cases against opposition activists following the summer protests, constant searches in the offices of Alexei Navalny and across Russia," Zhdanov added.

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny has hit out at President Vladimir Putin over an alleged forcible military conscription of one of his allies to a remote airbase in the Arctic.

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny has hit out at President Vladimir Putin over an alleged forcible military conscription of one of his allies to a remote airbase in the Arctic. Navalny supporters said the incident amounted to "kidnapping". Navalny said his key aide Ruslan Shaveddinov was detained by police at his Moscow flat and went missing only to resurface in Novaya Zemlya archipelago in the Arctic Ocean. Shaveddinov phone SIM was disabled, Navalny informed. The opposition leader said the activist who had earlier tried to appeal his conscription on medical grounds managed to make a phone call using someone else's phone. The opposition has accused the Putin government of Soviet-style political suppression in which detainees were sent to a remote area. It said that Ruslan has been sent to a base where only professional soldiers serve. Shaveddinov lawyer Arkady Chaplygin said that nobody does military service by conscription at Novaya Zemlya. "People who serve there are professional soldiers. Military activity in Belushya Guba is mostly about some scientific military studies. There is no place for a conscript there. Effectively Ruslan was sent to a labour camp in exile to serve his time," Chaplygin said. Ivan Zhdanov, Russian opposition activist said: "We fully understand that Ruslan's kidnapping is a part of the strategy aimed to pressure the Anti-Corruption Foundation. "It also includes freezing accounts, personal court cases against opposition activists following the summer protests, constant searches in the offices of Alexei Navalny and across Russia," Zhdanov added.

Ruslan forcibly conscripted, sent to Arctic base: Russian opposition leader Navalny

President Vladimir Putin on Monday opened a rail route linking Russia's two biggest cities to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apple-taking-a-deeper-look-at-map-policies-after-calling-crimea-part-of-russia-265344">Crimea</a>, which Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014, and said it proved that the country could deliver on giant infrastructure projects.

Putin inaugurated the passenger service by personally taking a train across the road and rail bridge which Russian engineers built to link Crimea to southern Russia after an earlier pre-annexation route which ran through Ukraine was shut down.

"With your work, talent, determination and single-mindedness, you've shown that Russia is able to do such world-scale infrastructure projects. This is after all the longest bridge not only in Russia but also in Europe," Putin told a crowd of construction workers.

"And you've shown that we can do such large-scale projects using our own technological abilities. This, without exaggeration, gives us all confidence that we can and definitely will do similar projects in the future."

European Union sanctions ban European citizens and companies from investing in Crimea, including in the peninsula's transport and infrastructure, something which complicated Russia's drive to build the 212-billion-rouble ($3.4 billion) bridge.

Construction of the bridge, which is 19 km long, was opposed by Ukraine, which says it wants the Black Sea peninsula back. The Kremlin has ruled out returning Crimea.

The bridge, likely to be viewed as an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-slams-apple-for-calling-crimea-part-of-russia-265091">important part of Putin's legacy</a>, was designed to integrate Crimea into Russia's economy and to end its relative isolation by allowing Russia to supply it by road and rail as well as by sea and air.

Putin said the new rail route would carry around 14 million passengers and about 13 million tonnes of freight next year.

Holiday destination

Russian state television has likened the bridge to a multi-billion-dollar <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/most-indian-crew-safe-in-russian-ship-wreck-claims-dgs-192106">railway project</a> under Communist leader Leonid Brezhnev which linked Siberia to the Soviet far east.

The first passenger train carrying 530 people left St Petersburg on Monday afternoon as Putin watched via video link from a location near the bridge in Russia's Krasnodar region.

The passenger service from Moscow is due to start on Tuesday, while freight and passenger services from other Russian cities are due to commence next year.

Russia has relentlessly promoted Crimea, a favoured holiday destination in the Soviet era, as an attractive place for Russians to soak up the sun.

The contract to build the bridge was handed to Arkady Rotenberg, Putin's childhood judo partner, who controlled the lead contractor. He accompanied Putin on Monday.

President Vladimir Putin on Monday opened a rail route linking Russia's two biggest cities to Crimea, which Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014, and said it proved that the country could deliver on giant infrastructure projects.

President Vladimir Putin on Monday opened a rail route linking Russia's two biggest cities to Crimea, which Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014, and said it proved that the country could deliver on giant infrastructure projects. Putin inaugurated the passenger service by personally taking a train across the road and rail bridge which Russian engineers built to link Crimea to southern Russia after an earlier pre-annexation route which ran through Ukraine was shut down. "With your work, talent, determination and single-mindedness, you've shown that Russia is able to do such world-scale infrastructure projects. This is after all the longest bridge not only in Russia but also in Europe," Putin told a crowd of construction workers. "And you've shown that we can do such large-scale projects using our own technological abilities. This, without exaggeration, gives us all confidence that we can and definitely will do similar projects in the future." European Union sanctions ban European citizens and companies from investing in Crimea, including in the peninsula's transport and infrastructure, something which complicated Russia's drive to build the 212-billion-rouble ($3.4 billion) bridge. Construction of the bridge, which is 19 km long, was opposed by Ukraine, which says it wants the Black Sea peninsula back. The Kremlin has ruled out returning Crimea. The bridge, likely to be viewed as an important part of Putin's legacy, was designed to integrate Crimea into Russia's economy and to end its relative isolation by allowing Russia to supply it by road and rail as well as by sea and air. Putin said the new rail route would carry around 14 million passengers and about 13 million tonnes of freight next year. Holiday destination Russian state television has likened the bridge to a multi-billion-dollar railway project under Communist leader Leonid Brezhnev which linked Siberia to the Soviet far east. The first passenger train carrying 530 people left St Petersburg on Monday afternoon as Putin watched via video link from a location near the bridge in Russia's Krasnodar region. The passenger service from Moscow is due to start on Tuesday, while freight and passenger services from other Russian cities are due to commence next year. Russia has relentlessly promoted Crimea, a favoured holiday destination in the Soviet era, as an attractive place for Russians to soak up the sun. The contract to build the bridge was handed to Arkady Rotenberg, Putin's childhood judo partner, who controlled the lead contractor. He accompanied Putin on Monday.

Russian President Putin inaugurates rail route to annexed Crimea

Putin speaks about Donald Trump's impeachment, Ukraine, presidential term limits & arms race with the U.S.

Gravitas: Putin's annual press conference: Key takeaways

Russian President<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/impeachment-against-trump-absolutely-on-made-up-grounds-putin-269164"> Vladimir Putin, 67</a>, in his year-end press conference dropped broad hints that he might not seek another term in 2024.

"Your humble servant served two successive terms and then stepped down and had the constitutional right to return to the post of president," he said, adding, "but some of our political scientists and activists do not like this and maybe this could be removed, possibly."

The press conference attended by 1,800 journalists especially accredited for the event were taken by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobody-knows-origins-of-global-climate-change-putin-in-annual-press-conference-269149">surprise as Putin </a>made the remark which proved to be the biggest talking point of the marathon event.

“One thing that could be changed about these (presidential) terms is removing the clause about 'successive' (terms)," Putin said.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-president-putin-holds-annual-news-conference-269191/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

The Russian presidency was handed to Putin by Boris Yeltsin in 1999, the Russian leader served as president from 2000 to 2008 and then as premier from 2000 to 2012 and then returned as president in 2019.

Putin is due to step down in 2024 which will be the end of his fourth presidential term. Putin is barred from immediately running again under the Russian constitution.

The four hours and twenty-five minutes press conference saw the Russian president answer several questions specifically on Trump impeachment and the WADA ban on Russian sports.

Putin looked to back Trump, declaring that the impeachment was based on "made-up grounds".

"It still needs to go through the Senate, where the Republicans have a majority," Putin said.

"And it is hardly likely that they are going to push out of office a representative of their own party, on grounds that are absolutely made-up," he added.

On the WADA ban, he said: "If WADA does not have any issues with our national Olympic committee our team must compete under its flag."

WADA had banned Russia for four years from major global events, including the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar over doping manuplation.

"Any punishment should be individual," he added.

"If a majority of our athletes are clean how is it possible to slap sanctions against them for someone else's actions?"

"The WADA decision contradicts the Olympic Charter," Putin added.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, 67, in his year-end press conference dropped broad hints that he might not seek another term in 2024. "Your humble servant served two successive terms and then stepped down and had the constitutional right to return to the post of president," he said, adding, "but some of our political scientists and activists do not like this and maybe this could be removed, possibly.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, 67, in his year-end press conference dropped broad hints that he might not seek another term in 2024. "Your humble servant served two successive terms and then stepped down and had the constitutional right to return to the post of president," he said, adding, "but some of our political scientists and activists do not like this and maybe this could be removed, possibly." The press conference attended by 1,800 journalists especially accredited for the event were taken by surprise as Putin made the remark which proved to be the biggest talking point of the marathon event. “One thing that could be changed about these (presidential) terms is removing the clause about 'successive' (terms)," Putin said. Watch Video: The Russian presidency was handed to Putin by Boris Yeltsin in 1999, the Russian leader served as president from 2000 to 2008 and then as premier from 2000 to 2012 and then returned as president in 2019. Putin is due to step down in 2024 which will be the end of his fourth presidential term. Putin is barred from immediately running again under the Russian constitution. The four hours and twenty-five minutes press conference saw the Russian president answer several questions specifically on Trump impeachment and the WADA ban on Russian sports. Putin looked to back Trump, declaring that the impeachment was based on "made-up grounds". "It still needs to go through the Senate, where the Republicans have a majority," Putin said. "And it is hardly likely that they are going to push out of office a representative of their own party, on grounds that are absolutely made-up," he added. On the WADA ban, he said: "If WADA does not have any issues with our national Olympic committee our team must compete under its flag." WADA had banned Russia for four years from major global events, including the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar over doping manuplation. "Any punishment should be individual," he added. "If a majority of our athletes are clean how is it possible to slap sanctions against them for someone else's actions?" "The WADA decision contradicts the Olympic Charter," Putin added.

Putin hints at presidential term limit in marathon press conference

Just hours after the US House of Representatives voted to<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-votes-to-impeach-trump-for-obstruction-of-congress-269040"> impeach President Trump</a>, Russian President Vladimir Putin at the year-end annual press conference said the US president's impeachment was based on "made-up grounds".

Donald Trump was impeached by the US House on two counts - abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. The abuse of power article was passed in the US House with a 230-197 vote and the obstruction article was passed with a 229-198 margin.

"It still needs to go through the Senate, where the Republicans have a majority," Putin said.

"And it is hardly likely that they are going to push out of office a representative of their own party, on grounds that are absolutely made-up," he added.

Reacting to the development, Trump at an election rally in Michigan said: "This lawless, partisan impeachment is a political suicide march for the Democrat Party." The US president said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Democrats had given themselves an "eternal mark of shame."&nbsp;

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-doesnt-feel-like-were-being-impeached-269123/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"They're the ones who should be impeached, every one of them," Trump said referring to the Democrats. The impeachment articles will now be presented before the Senate next month where Republicans are in majority.

White House press secretary Stephanie Grisham said Trump would be "fully exonerated." The president went a step ahead on Twitter and pinned a tweet which said, "in reality, they are not after me, they're after you."

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in a tweet said that "no one is above the law, Mr President," pointing towards Trump.&nbsp;

Just hours after the US House of Representatives voted to impeach President Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin at the year-end annual press conference said the US president's impeachment was based on "made-up grounds".

Just hours after the US House of Representatives voted to impeach President Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin at the year-end annual press conference said the US president's impeachment was based on "made-up grounds". Donald Trump was impeached by the US House on two counts - abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. The abuse of power article was passed in the US House with a 230-197 vote and the obstruction article was passed with a 229-198 margin. "It still needs to go through the Senate, where the Republicans have a majority," Putin said. "And it is hardly likely that they are going to push out of office a representative of their own party, on grounds that are absolutely made-up," he added. Reacting to the development, Trump at an election rally in Michigan said: "This lawless, partisan impeachment is a political suicide march for the Democrat Party." The US president said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Democrats had given themselves an "eternal mark of shame." Watch Video: "They're the ones who should be impeached, every one of them," Trump said referring to the Democrats. The impeachment articles will now be presented before the Senate next month where Republicans are in majority. White House press secretary Stephanie Grisham said Trump would be "fully exonerated." The president went a step ahead on Twitter and pinned a tweet which said, "in reality, they are not after me, they're after you." House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in a tweet said that "no one is above the law, Mr President," pointing towards Trump.

Impeachment against Trump absolutely on made-up grounds: Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin while addressing year-end press conference in Moscow said that "nobody knows what causes climate change".

The press conference attended by nearly 18,000 journalists had Putin answer a number of questions. The Russian president while answering the question on climate change said: "Nobody knows the origins of global climate change," adding,"we know that in the history of our Earth there have been periods of warming and cooling and it could depend on processes in the universe."

"A small angle in the axis in the rotation of the Earth or its orbit around the Sun could push the planet into serious climate changes," he asserted. However, Putin added that "we must undertake maximum efforts to ensure that the climate does not change dramatically."

"For our country, this process is very serious," he said. "We will undertake efforts to minimise the consequences for our country," Putin said.

On Russia's ban from sports, Putin said that the country must compete under its flag at sports events despite the doping ban.

"If WADA does not have any issues with our national Olympic committee our team must compete under its flag," Putin said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin while addressing year-end press conference in Moscow said that "nobody knows what causes climate change". The press conference attended by nearly 18,000 journalists had Putin answer a number of questions.

Russian President Vladimir Putin while addressing year-end press conference in Moscow said that "nobody knows what causes climate change". The press conference attended by nearly 18,000 journalists had Putin answer a number of questions. The Russian president while answering the question on climate change said: "Nobody knows the origins of global climate change," adding,"we know that in the history of our Earth there have been periods of warming and cooling and it could depend on processes in the universe." "A small angle in the axis in the rotation of the Earth or its orbit around the Sun could push the planet into serious climate changes," he asserted. However, Putin added that "we must undertake maximum efforts to ensure that the climate does not change dramatically." "For our country, this process is very serious," he said. "We will undertake efforts to minimise the consequences for our country," Putin said. On Russia's ban from sports, Putin said that the country must compete under its flag at sports events despite the doping ban. "If WADA does not have any issues with our national Olympic committee our team must compete under its flag," Putin said.

Nobody knows origins of global climate change: Putin in annual press conference

The countries full ceasefire to be implemented in eastern Ukraine.

Russia and Ukraine to implement a ceasefire

Russian leader Vladimir Putin on Monday met Ukranian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky for the first time ever at a Paris <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-praises-europe-defence-spending-boost-as-summit-looms-265274">summit</a> aimed at agreeing to measures to help end five years of conflict in the east of Ukraine.

No comprehensive peace deal is expected from the meeting,&nbsp;mediated by French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel,&nbsp;but diplomats hope the summit will help to bolster trust between the two men.

The four-way talks at the Elysee Palace are expected to be followed by a hotly-awaited bilateral between wily ex-KGB agent Putin,&nbsp;in power for two decades,&nbsp;and ex-comedian Zelensky who won the presidency this year. &nbsp;

Thousands have been killed and one million have fled their homes since pro-Russia militias in eastern Ukraine launched a bid for independence in 2014, kicking off a conflict that deepened Russia's estrangement from the West.

Separatists seized control of the Donetsk and Lugansk regions shortly after Russia's annexation of the Ukrainian peninsula of Crimea.&nbsp;

The issue of Crimea, whose seizure gave Putin a popularity boost at home but led to international sanctions being imposed against Moscow, is not on the table at this summit.

The meeting's aims include agreeing to disband illegal militias, the departure of foreign fighters from Donetsk and Lugansk, and Ukraine taking back control of its border with Russia, according to a French presidential source.

Also key is agreeing to a calendar for local municipal elections to be held in Donetsk and Lugansk under Ukrainian law, with the two regions enjoying special status,&nbsp;an idea known as the Steinmeier Formula.

"If the summit meeting is to be meaningful, it should have a result, and the result should very much be on the Steinmeier Formula," said Gerhard Mangott, professor of international relations at Austria's Innsbruck University.

'Festering wound'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ukraine-seeks-to-require-uk-court-hearings-if-russia-tries-to-enforce-debt-267127">Ukrainian</a> Foreign Minister Vadym Prystaiko ahead of the meeting reaffirmed his country's key demands of a "total and permanent ceasefire, our control over the borders of a unitary and indivisible state, the disarmament and dismantling of illegal armed groups, local elections in accordance with our legislation." &nbsp;

The Kremlin has sent signals that it is ready to work with Zelensky, whom Putin has described as "likeable" and "sincere".&nbsp;

But the Russian leader also will not want to return empty-handed and will be pushing for an easing of sanctions.

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas told the Funke newspaper group that "we have to do everything we can... to make progress in the Ukrainian peace process", and described the conflict as "a festering wound in Europe".

Maas praised Zelensky for bringing "new momentum" to the talks, adding that "to make progress with the next difficult steps, Russia needs to make a move too".

"There remains the problem of trust between the parties," said the French presidential source, who asked not to be identified by name. "This needs to be created before we can move forward."&nbsp;

Watch: Zelensky and Putin to come face-to-face

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-russia-summit-zelensky-and-putin-to-come-face-to-face-267077/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

'Wound of war'

Monday's summit is the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-leaders-set-to-meet-for-paris-talks-with-bleak-prospects-of-peace-266434">first of its kind in three years</a> and seeks to implement accords signed in Minsk in 2015 that call for the withdrawal of heavy weapons, the restoration of Kiev's control over its borders, wider autonomy for Donetsk and Lugansk, and the holding of local elections.

The summit is a hugely delicate event for everyone involved, but particularly for Zelensky, who is under pressure not to cede ground to the Kremlin.

About 200 demonstrators spent the night in tents outside the Ukrainian president's office, seeking to put pressure on Zelensky not to "capitulate" to his Russian counterpart.

The Ukrainian leader,&nbsp;who came to power after starring in a comedy show about a school teacher who suddenly becomes president, took a realistic tone ahead of the talks.

"I want to come back with concrete results, but we understand that we cannot have everything. The meeting is already a victory. Since 2016, there has been no dialogue."

For Macron, the summit is a centrepiece of an increasingly bold foreign policy he is driving despite troubles at home, where transport workers have been on strike for days in a dispute over pension reforms.

Macron, who shocked NATO allies last month by declaring the alliance brain dead, has made clear his belief that Europe needs a strategic partnership with Russia.

Russian leader Vladimir Putin on Monday met Ukranian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky for the first time ever at a Paris summit aimed at agreeing to measures to help end five years of conflict in the east of Ukraine.

Russian leader Vladimir Putin on Monday met Ukranian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky for the first time ever at a Paris summit aimed at agreeing to measures to help end five years of conflict in the east of Ukraine. No comprehensive peace deal is expected from the meeting, mediated by French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel, but diplomats hope the summit will help to bolster trust between the two men. The four-way talks at the Elysee Palace are expected to be followed by a hotly-awaited bilateral between wily ex-KGB agent Putin, in power for two decades, and ex-comedian Zelensky who won the presidency this year. Thousands have been killed and one million have fled their homes since pro-Russia militias in eastern Ukraine launched a bid for independence in 2014, kicking off a conflict that deepened Russia's estrangement from the West. Separatists seized control of the Donetsk and Lugansk regions shortly after Russia's annexation of the Ukrainian peninsula of Crimea. The issue of Crimea, whose seizure gave Putin a popularity boost at home but led to international sanctions being imposed against Moscow, is not on the table at this summit. The meeting's aims include agreeing to disband illegal militias, the departure of foreign fighters from Donetsk and Lugansk, and Ukraine taking back control of its border with Russia, according to a French presidential source. Also key is agreeing to a calendar for local municipal elections to be held in Donetsk and Lugansk under Ukrainian law, with the two regions enjoying special status, an idea known as the Steinmeier Formula. "If the summit meeting is to be meaningful, it should have a result, and the result should very much be on the Steinmeier Formula," said Gerhard Mangott, professor of international relations at Austria's Innsbruck University. 'Festering wound' Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadym Prystaiko ahead of the meeting reaffirmed his country's key demands of a "total and permanent ceasefire, our control over the borders of a unitary and indivisible state, the disarmament and dismantling of illegal armed groups, local elections in accordance with our legislation." The Kremlin has sent signals that it is ready to work with Zelensky, whom Putin has described as "likeable" and "sincere". But the Russian leader also will not want to return empty-handed and will be pushing for an easing of sanctions. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas told the Funke newspaper group that "we have to do everything we can... to make progress in the Ukrainian peace process", and described the conflict as "a festering wound in Europe". Maas praised Zelensky for bringing "new momentum" to the talks, adding that "to make progress with the next difficult steps, Russia needs to make a move too". "There remains the problem of trust between the parties," said the French presidential source, who asked not to be identified by name. "This needs to be created before we can move forward." Watch: Zelensky and Putin to come face-to-face 'Wound of war' Monday's summit is the first of its kind in three years and seeks to implement accords signed in Minsk in 2015 that call for the withdrawal of heavy weapons, the restoration of Kiev's control over its borders, wider autonomy for Donetsk and Lugansk, and the holding of local elections. The summit is a hugely delicate event for everyone involved, but particularly for Zelensky, who is under pressure not to cede ground to the Kremlin. About 200 demonstrators spent the night in tents outside the Ukrainian president's office, seeking to put pressure on Zelensky not to "capitulate" to his Russian counterpart. The Ukrainian leader, who came to power after starring in a comedy show about a school teacher who suddenly becomes president, took a realistic tone ahead of the talks. "I want to come back with concrete results, but we understand that we cannot have everything. The meeting is already a victory. Since 2016, there has been no dialogue." For Macron, the summit is a centrepiece of an increasingly bold foreign policy he is driving despite troubles at home, where transport workers have been on strike for days in a dispute over pension reforms. Macron, who shocked NATO allies last month by declaring the alliance brain dead, has made clear his belief that Europe needs a strategic partnership with Russia.

Putin, Zelensky meet at Paris Summit amid push to end Ukraine war

Political Newbie Vs Veteran Leader in Ukraine-Russia Summit.

Ukraine-Russia Summit: Zelensky and Putin to come face-to-face

Zelensky & Putin to come face-to-face as the two leaders will meet after 2016.

Zelensky & Putin to come face-to-face

Out of distrust for Wikipedia, Russian President Vladimir Putin plans to roll out a grand Russian Encyclopaedia to put out verifiable facts and data.&nbsp;

Putin's intentions can not be doubted in the wake of all false propaganda that needs to be stubbed out.&nbsp;

However, Russia's track record on internet and press freedom portrays a different story, making the new announcement suspect.&nbsp;

Russia under President Vladimir Putin is on an expansive growth. Into his fourth term of Presidency, Putin is the most popular and by far the longest-serving president of Russia whose every announcement is received with patriotic fervour and nationalistic pride.

It is no wonder then that his recent plan for a home-grown Encyclopaedia, on the lines of Wikipedia, is gaining popular support. This announcement came last month.

The announcement which came last month was referring to was the "Great Russian Encyclopaedia" published by the Russian Academy of Sciences in 2016. This voluminous record needs to be converted to a digital format, which also requires constant updating.

Putin has proposed that once this plan goes online, users can access reliable information in a modern format.

Putin does not trust Wikipedia anymore. In 2015 the Russian language version of Wikipedia was blocked for publishing an article on cannabis and drug-related material.

Similar curbs on internet content are on the rise in Russia. Even press and media organizations have not been spared by Putin.&nbsp;

Russia was on Reporters Without Borders list of countries under surveillance between 2010 and 2013.

In 2014 Russia was put on the internet enemies list

The World Press Freedom Index of 2019 ranks Russia at 149th place among 180 countries.

Attacks on the media are on the rise with 34 reported incidents of journalists being killed in connection with their work.

There is an apparent pattern adopted by Putin that explains the closed ecosystem of information in Russia where truth is increasingly becoming the casualty.

Media in Russia, including the internet is regulated by Roskomnadzor, a set of guidelines maintained by the federal department handling information technology and mass communication.

There is a centralized internet blacklist that the government can use to censor content or switch off for a temporary period without a court order.

In March 2018, a law was passed, introducing fines for those the government perceived to be spreading "fake news" and "disrespect" to the state agencies.

Recently, the Russian state enacted a law to brand any blogger or a foreign journalist working in Russia as a "foreign agent". Once branded, fines and bureaucratic restrictions will follow, pushing such groups or individuals to shut down.

Seen in this light, Putin's plans to replace Wikipedia has met criticism. Unlike China or Turkey, where Wikipedia is banned, Putin has softly suggested the creation of an alternative.

The project will require about 2 billion roubles, which is close to 31 million US dollars.

The high cost is a part of a long term strategy for Putin, which is to ensure that no news against Russia reaches the world.

Out of distrust for Wikipedia, Russian President Vladimir Putin plans to roll out a grand Russian Encyclopaedia to put out verifiable facts and data. Putin's intentions can not be doubted in the wake of all false propaganda that needs to be stubbed out.

Out of distrust for Wikipedia, Russian President Vladimir Putin plans to roll out a grand Russian Encyclopaedia to put out verifiable facts and data. Putin's intentions can not be doubted in the wake of all false propaganda that needs to be stubbed out. However, Russia's track record on internet and press freedom portrays a different story, making the new announcement suspect. Russia under President Vladimir Putin is on an expansive growth. Into his fourth term of Presidency, Putin is the most popular and by far the longest-serving president of Russia whose every announcement is received with patriotic fervour and nationalistic pride. It is no wonder then that his recent plan for a home-grown Encyclopaedia, on the lines of Wikipedia, is gaining popular support. This announcement came last month. The announcement which came last month was referring to was the "Great Russian Encyclopaedia" published by the Russian Academy of Sciences in 2016. This voluminous record needs to be converted to a digital format, which also requires constant updating. Putin has proposed that once this plan goes online, users can access reliable information in a modern format. Putin does not trust Wikipedia anymore. In 2015 the Russian language version of Wikipedia was blocked for publishing an article on cannabis and drug-related material. Similar curbs on internet content are on the rise in Russia. Even press and media organizations have not been spared by Putin. Russia was on Reporters Without Borders list of countries under surveillance between 2010 and 2013. In 2014 Russia was put on the internet enemies list The World Press Freedom Index of 2019 ranks Russia at 149th place among 180 countries. Attacks on the media are on the rise with 34 reported incidents of journalists being killed in connection with their work. There is an apparent pattern adopted by Putin that explains the closed ecosystem of information in Russia where truth is increasingly becoming the casualty. Media in Russia, including the internet is regulated by Roskomnadzor, a set of guidelines maintained by the federal department handling information technology and mass communication. There is a centralized internet blacklist that the government can use to censor content or switch off for a temporary period without a court order. In March 2018, a law was passed, introducing fines for those the government perceived to be spreading "fake news" and "disrespect" to the state agencies. Recently, the Russian state enacted a law to brand any blogger or a foreign journalist working in Russia as a "foreign agent". Once branded, fines and bureaucratic restrictions will follow, pushing such groups or individuals to shut down. Seen in this light, Putin's plans to replace Wikipedia has met criticism. Unlike China or Turkey, where Wikipedia is banned, Putin has softly suggested the creation of an alternative. The project will require about 2 billion roubles, which is close to 31 million US dollars. The high cost is a part of a long term strategy for Putin, which is to ensure that no news against Russia reaches the world.

Russian Encyclopaedia to replace Wikipedia in Putin's expensive attempt to curb 'fake news'

Russians aren't just making more cheese than ever before. They are also making the world's best cheese. Everyone loves cheese! But what do you do when war, politics and sanctions cut off the supply of your favourite cheese?

Well, a Russian military adventure by President Vladimir Putin has led to a cheese manufacturing boom.

A silent cheese revolution is taking place in Russia and it has been spurred by politics and war. When the Russian tanks rolled into Crimea in February 2014.

Vladimir Putin gained a geostrategic advantage. But sanctions from United States and European Union crippled the Russian currency, the Rouble.

Before 2014, Russians consumed copious amounts of European dairy products, cheese was one of the top favourites,&nbsp;especially the ones manufactured in Europe.

But the annexation of Crimea changed everything. In counter-sanctions, Vladimir Putin banned all European companies from selling their cheese in Russia. Setting off a crisis of cheese.

But that was until the Russian agricultural minister announced a 5-year plan. In which, generous tax cuts were offered. And that led to a cheese manufacturing boom.

Suddenly hundreds of creameries sprung up in the Russian countryside. Elvira Kovtun and her husband are college sweethearts. They first manufactured cheese at their home four years ago.

But now they have won the biggest prize in cheese manufacturing.

At the world cheese awards. The equivalent of the Oscars in the cheese world. The couple won the gold prize for their 'Peshernyi' hard cheese, the couple is now selling their award-winning Peshernyi cheese, which has a nutty and fruity taste.&nbsp;

For 1800 Rouble or $30 per kilo. Last year alone, Russia manufactured 670,000 tonnes of cheese and&nbsp;became part of the international dairy federation.

This was even as France and Italy churned out in excess of 1-2 billion tonnes of cheese in 2018.

Traditionally, France and Italy have dominated the international cheese market, but Russia is now set to give them a run for their money.

Russians aren't just making more cheese than ever before. They are also making the world's best cheese. Everyone loves cheese! But what do you do when war, politics and sanctions cut off the supply of your favourite cheese?

Russians aren't just making more cheese than ever before. They are also making the world's best cheese. Everyone loves cheese! But what do you do when war, politics and sanctions cut off the supply of your favourite cheese? Well, a Russian military adventure by President Vladimir Putin has led to a cheese manufacturing boom. A silent cheese revolution is taking place in Russia and it has been spurred by politics and war. When the Russian tanks rolled into Crimea in February 2014. Vladimir Putin gained a geostrategic advantage. But sanctions from United States and European Union crippled the Russian currency, the Rouble. Before 2014, Russians consumed copious amounts of European dairy products, cheese was one of the top favourites, especially the ones manufactured in Europe. But the annexation of Crimea changed everything. In counter-sanctions, Vladimir Putin banned all European companies from selling their cheese in Russia. Setting off a crisis of cheese. But that was until the Russian agricultural minister announced a 5-year plan. In which, generous tax cuts were offered. And that led to a cheese manufacturing boom. Suddenly hundreds of creameries sprung up in the Russian countryside. Elvira Kovtun and her husband are college sweethearts. They first manufactured cheese at their home four years ago. But now they have won the biggest prize in cheese manufacturing. At the world cheese awards. The equivalent of the Oscars in the cheese world. The couple won the gold prize for their 'Peshernyi' hard cheese, the couple is now selling their award-winning Peshernyi cheese, which has a nutty and fruity taste. For 1800 Rouble or $30 per kilo. Last year alone, Russia manufactured 670,000 tonnes of cheese and became part of the international dairy federation. This was even as France and Italy churned out in excess of 1-2 billion tonnes of cheese in 2018. Traditionally, France and Italy have dominated the international cheese market, but Russia is now set to give them a run for their money.

Now, Russia makes world's best cheese, thanks to Putin's sanctions war

Ahead of the BRICS Summit in Brazil next week, Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev spoke to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal.&nbsp;

Kudashev said that the grouping is a new model of international, political and economic contact. While confirming Modi-Putin meet next week on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit, Kudashev said that Russia supports India's idea of holding a global comprehensive convention against terrorism or CCIT that calls for a common definition of terror as well as PM Modi's idea to convene a global conference on counter-terror.&nbsp;

Here is the transcript of the interview.

WION: What will be the main focus of the BRICS Summit in Brazil?

Kudashev: The summit testifies that the BRICS remain very much relevant and remains capable of generating new ideas and the new vision for the future. For us, as a regional member to the BRICS, our highest priority will be the position of the group of 5 as a new model of international, political and economic contact. No less important will be the issue of strategic stability, multipolarity, peace and security. Economic dimensions of BRICS have greater and greater importance. In the offing are BRICS women business alliance, BRICS platform for energy research. Issue of new challenges and threats, counter-terrorism and information security will be in focus. Russia advocates a separate pact on information security which is of great importance for us. Multiple ideas are put forward by our BRICS partners, including India, for enhanced humanitarian connect.

WION: Will PM Modi meet Russian President Putin in Brazil?

Kudashev: Yes, it is in the offing. It will be premature for me to announce the specific date and time, but it will happen. Our relation with India is special and in the coming year, we will celebrate the 20th anniversary of our strategic partnership, the 10th anniversary of our specially privilege strategic partnership, the 75th anniversary in the great patriotic war and 550th anniversary of the first contact between India and Russia.

WION: When will the training of Gaganyaan astronauts begin in Russia?&nbsp;

Kudashev: The legal environment is there and the sooner we start doing the business and start the training procedure, the better it is because time goes by very fast and the flight will come very soon.

WION: Indian defence minister was in Moscow. When can we see an inter-government agreement on Reciprocal Logistics Support (ARLS) ?

Kudashev: I could say that we remain committed to this agreement, committed to doing it at the earliest, so I believe doing in the course of coming 2-3 months, it will be there.

WION: Terror remains a key global concern, including for India, how are both countries are increasing the counter-terror initiative?&nbsp;

Kudashev: We should help each other. We actively cooperate at the global level and at the regional level. We do exchange our experiences, information and certain material. Russia is supportive of India's idea of doing a global comprehensive convention against terrorism and remains supportive of PM Modi's idea to convene a global conference on counter-terror.&nbsp;

Ahead of the BRICS Summit in Brazil next week, Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev spoke to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal. Kudashev said that the grouping is a new model of international, political and economic contact.

Ahead of the BRICS Summit in Brazil next week, Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev spoke to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal. Kudashev said that the grouping is a new model of international, political and economic contact. While confirming Modi-Putin meet next week on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit, Kudashev said that Russia supports India's idea of holding a global comprehensive convention against terrorism or CCIT that calls for a common definition of terror as well as PM Modi's idea to convene a global conference on counter-terror. Here is the transcript of the interview. WION: What will be the main focus of the BRICS Summit in Brazil? Kudashev: The summit testifies that the BRICS remain very much relevant and remains capable of generating new ideas and the new vision for the future. For us, as a regional member to the BRICS, our highest priority will be the position of the group of 5 as a new model of international, political and economic contact. No less important will be the issue of strategic stability, multipolarity, peace and security. Economic dimensions of BRICS have greater and greater importance. In the offing are BRICS women business alliance, BRICS platform for energy research. Issue of new challenges and threats, counter-terrorism and information security will be in focus. Russia advocates a separate pact on information security which is of great importance for us. Multiple ideas are put forward by our BRICS partners, including India, for enhanced humanitarian connect. WION: Will PM Modi meet Russian President Putin in Brazil? Kudashev: Yes, it is in the offing. It will be premature for me to announce the specific date and time, but it will happen. Our relation with India is special and in the coming year, we will celebrate the 20th anniversary of our strategic partnership, the 10th anniversary of our specially privilege strategic partnership, the 75th anniversary in the great patriotic war and 550th anniversary of the first contact between India and Russia. WION: When will the training of Gaganyaan astronauts begin in Russia? Kudashev: The legal environment is there and the sooner we start doing the business and start the training procedure, the better it is because time goes by very fast and the flight will come very soon. WION: Indian defence minister was in Moscow. When can we see an inter-government agreement on Reciprocal Logistics Support (ARLS) ? Kudashev: I could say that we remain committed to this agreement, committed to doing it at the earliest, so I believe doing in the course of coming 2-3 months, it will be there. WION: Terror remains a key global concern, including for India, how are both countries are increasing the counter-terror initiative? Kudashev: We should help each other. We actively cooperate at the global level and at the regional level. We do exchange our experiences, information and certain material. Russia is supportive of India's idea of doing a global comprehensive convention against terrorism and remains supportive of PM Modi's idea to convene a global conference on counter-terror.

BRICS is new model of international contact: Russian envoy to India

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