Ahead of his high-stakes meeting with Donald Trump in Alaska, Russian President Vladimir Putin held discussions with top military, economic, and diplomatic officials in Moscow. 


Trump & Putin to discuss Ukraine peace and nuclear arms control | Russia-Ukraine peace talks

BREAKING: US President Leaves For Meeting With Russian President | Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks | WION


Breaking: US President Trump leaves for meeting with Russian President Putin

All eyes on high-stakes Putin-Trump meet in Alaska | Russia-Ukraine peace talks


Ahead of his high-stakes meeting with Donald Trump in Alaska, Russian President Vladimir Putin held discussions with top military, economic, and diplomatic officials in Moscow. 

Trump-Putin Summit: US Warns Of Additional Tariffs On India If Peace Talks Fail 

Trump-Putin Summit: Vladimir Putin Holds Final Pre-Summit Strategy Session | Russia Ukraine War

The United States has warned India of the possibility of increased secondary tariffs, following a 50 percent levy announced earlier this month. Treasury secretary Scott Bessent said in a Bloomberg TV interview that any further action could depend on the outcome of the Trump-Putin meeting in Alaska.


Trump-Putin Alaska Meet: Scott Bessent Warns: ‘Secondary Tariffs Could Go Up’

Putin-Trump summit: Russian president meets officials before crucial summit 

Russia appears to be preparing to test its nuclear-armed, nuclear-powered cruise missile, the 9M730 Burevestnik (NATO designation: SSC-X-9 Skyfall), ahead of President Vladimir Putin’s meeting with US President Donald Trump in Alaska on Friday, according to two US researchers and a Western security source, Reuters reported.&nbsp;Independent analysts Jeffrey Lewis of the Middlebury Institute of International Studies in California and Decker Eveleth of the CNA research organisation in Virginia reached this conclusion after examining recent commercial satellite imagery from Planet Labs. They noted significant activity at the Pankovo test site on the Barents Sea archipelago of Novaya Zemlya, including increased personnel, equipment, and the presence of ships and aircraft associated with previous Burevestnik tests. A Western security source, speaking to Reuters, confirmed that preparations for a launch are under way.&nbsp;

A satellite image from August 7, 2025, shows equipment at Russia’s Pankovo test site on Yuzhny Island in Novaya Zemlya.

&nbsp;<h2>A missile with global reach and complex capabilities</h2>&nbsp;The Burevestnik is designed to deliver a nuclear payload anywhere in the world. According to Reuters, it flies at extremely low altitudes to evade radar, follows unpredictable flight paths, and has near-indefinite loitering time, allowing it to approach targets from unexpected directions. The weapon is seen as a Russian response to Western air defence systems, including the US 'Golden Dome' missile defence shield under development. Putin has previously described the missile as 'invincible' against current and future missile defences, citing its almost unlimited range. However, the Nuclear Threat Initiative reports that the missile has a poor test record, with only two partial successes among 13 known attempts. Critics also warn of the potential environmental hazard from radiation emitted along its flight path.&nbsp;<h2>Political timing and arms control context</h2>&nbsp;While the researchers told Reuters that missile tests are usually scheduled well in advance, they acknowledged that the timing could have political implications. A test during the week of the Trump, Putin summit could serve as a show of force, overshadowing discussions and signalling defiance of US calls for a ceasefire in Ukraine. Experts, including former acting US undersecretary of state for arms control Tom Countryman, told Reuters that such schedules can be advanced or delayed for political reasons.&nbsp;The developments come as New START, the last US–Russia treaty limiting strategic nuclear deployments, is set to expire on February 5. Lewis and Eveleth also noted that Planet Labs imagery showed stacks of shipping containers, specialised equipment, and personnel arriving at the site since late July, along with two radar-equipped aircraft parked at Rogachevo military airfield since mid-July. Neither the White House, the Pentagon, the CIA, nor Russia’s Defence Ministry commented on the possible test when approached by Reuters. &nbsp;

They noted significant activity at the Pankovo test site on the Barents Sea archipelago of Novaya Zemlya, including increased personnel, equipment, and the presence of ships and aircraft associated with previous Burevestnik tests.

Russia appears to be preparing to test its nuclear-armed, nuclear-powered cruise missile, the 9M730 Burevestnik (NATO designation: SSC-X-9 Skyfall), ahead of President Vladimir Putin’s meeting with US President Donald Trump in Alaska on Friday, according to two US researchers and a Western security source, Reuters reported. Independent analysts Jeffrey Lewis of the Middlebury Institute of International Studies in California and Decker Eveleth of the CNA research organisation in Virginia reached this conclusion after examining recent commercial satellite imagery from Planet Labs. They noted significant activity at the Pankovo test site on the Barents Sea archipelago of Novaya Zemlya, including increased personnel, equipment, and the presence of ships and aircraft associated with previous Burevestnik tests. A Western security source, speaking to Reuters, confirmed that preparations for a launch are under way.

They noted significant activity at the Pankovo test site on the Barents Sea archipelago of Novaya Zemlya, including increased personnel, equipment, and the presence of ships and aircraft associated with previous Burevestnik tests.

Satellite images reveal Russia poised to test nuclear-powered missile ahead of Putin–Trump talks

The upcoming Putin–Trump summit is expected to focus on possible economic trade-offs to encourage a ceasefire in Ukraine, including potential U.S. and allied sanctions relief.


Putin-Trump summit: economic trade-offs on table to seal peace deal? 

As Russian forces unleash a brutal wave of strikes across Ukraine, Vladimir Putin prepares to sit down with Donald Trump in Alaska for a so-called “peace deal.” With cities burning and civilians caught in the crossfire, critics are calling the timing a calculated power play. Is this diplomacy or domination? 


Russia-Ukraine War: Inside Trump-Putin Alaska Meet | Why A Military Base Was Last Resort 

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed on Tuesday not to give eastern Ukrainian land to Russia, saying that abandoning the Donbas region would open the door for Russian President Vladimir Putin to “start a third war” in Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine War: Zelesnky Stunned By Trump's Proposal 'Swap Territories With Putin'

Russia is reportedly preparing to test its new nuclear-armed, nuclear-powered cruise missile. The potential test comes as President Vladimir Putin prepares for discussions with US President Donald Trump on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.


Putin-Trump Meeting Looms as Russia Plans Nuclear Missile Test 

Trump warns Putin of severe consequences if he refuses to end the Ukraine war during high-stakes talks.


Russia-Ukraine War: Trump warns of severe consequences if Putin doesn't end Ukraine war 

US President Donald Trump warned of “severe consequences” for Russian President Vladimir Putin if the war in Ukraine continues. The statement came after a summit with European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as global leaders urge de-escalation and a potential ceasefire.


US- Russia : Trump Issues Stark Warning to Putin Over Ongoing Ukraine War

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have approved a new plan for a Gaza offensive amid ongoing tensions in the region. The move signals a potential escalation in the conflict as Israeli forces prepare for expanded military operations.


IDF Says Campaign Will Continue Until All Hostages Are Freed & Hamas is Dismantled 

Just days before the first US-Russia summit in four years, Russia has unleashed some of its most aggressive attacks in months striking Ukrainian defence plants, drone facilities, and key supply lines.
With fierce fighting across six regions, including the battle for Donbas, every battlefield gain could shape the talks between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin.
The fate of Ukraine could be decided in the next 48 hours.

Trump, Putin To Hold First Meeting In 4 Years; Ukraine's Fate May Be Decided in 48 Hours | GRAVITAS

Just days before the first US-Russia summit in four years, Russia has unleashed some of its most aggressive attacks in months striking Ukrainian defence plants, drone facilities, and key supply lines.

With fierce fighting across six regions, including the battle for Donbas, every battlefield gain could shape the talks between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin.


Russian Troops Break Through Ukraine's Defensive Lines Across Eastern Frontline

In a crucial prelude to the upcoming Trump-Putin summit, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warmly welcomes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Berlin. The leaders discuss Ukraine’s future and coordinate strategies as global attention turns to the high-stakes meeting. Stay with us for live updates and expert analysis on this pivotal moment.


German Chancellor Merz Welcomes Zelensky In Germany Ahead Of Trump-Putin Meet

All eyes are on US President Donald trump's meeting with Russian president Vladimir Putin next week in Alaska for Ukraine peace talks.  But trump's claim of an economic windfall from higher tariff collections ahead of that meeting seems to be playing another narrative. In July, the US Budget deficit jumped 20 percent from a year earlier to 291 billion dollars, despite a record surge in tariff revenues.


Trump Tariffs: US Marks Worst Ever Debt Crisis Amid BRICS Challenge


Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed on Tuesday not to give eastern Ukrainian land to Russia, saying that abandoning the Donbas region would open the door for Russian President Vladimir Putin to “start a third war” in Ukraine.


Trump-Putin Meet: Vladimir Putin To Be First Russian President To Visit Alaska

Trump-Putin Meeting: US Lowers Expectations For Trump-Putin Alaska Summit | Russia Ukraine War

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have held a high-stakes call ahead of the upcoming Alaska summit. Experts weigh in on whether this marks the formation of a new alliance aimed against the United States. Stay tuned as we break down what this means for global security and U.S. foreign policy.


Putin And Kim Jong Un Unite Before Alaska Summit; A New Threat To The US?

Trump-Putin Meet: Trump's Land Swap Plan Meets Zelensky's Resistance | Russia-Ukraine War

Ukraine's Zelensky Rules Out Ceding Donbas Region In Deal With Russia | Trump-Putin Talks | Russia-Ukraine War


Russia Ukraine War: Ukraine's Zelensky Rules Out Ceding Donbas Region In Deal With Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (August 10) stressed that Russian President Vladimir Putin is trying to legalise the occupation of Kyiv's territories as the attempts to reach the Russia-Ukraine ceasefire deal, calling it Putin's tactics.Zelensky shared a video message on X, slamming Putin, while he lauded the US and President Donald Trump's efforts to mediate a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine as the war is in its fourth year."Everyone can clearly see Putin's tactics. He fears sanctions and is doing everything to bail on them. He wants to exchange a pause in the war, in the killings, for the legalisation of the occupation of our land," the Ukrainian president said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">I have not heard any partners express doubts about America&#39;s ability to ensure that the war ends. The President of the United States has the levers and the determination. Ukraine has supported all of President Trump’s proposals, starting back in February. Ceasefire, all formats… <a href="https://t.co/klG8tMqpIq">pic.twitter.com/klG8tMqpIq</a>&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1954266592411357597?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"He wants to gain territorial spoils for the second time already. But, now we will not allow his second attempt, Zelensky said, noting what happened with Crimea," Zelensky added.He stressed that there must be a just end to the war, which depends on Russia.Zelensky said that Ukraine and its allies have the same understanding of the need for a ceasefire, but only "one actor stands against this, Putin". "His only card is the ability to kill, and he is trying to sell the cessation of killings at the highest possible price," he added.The Ukrainian president further said that Trump has the levers and the determination, stressing that Ukraine has supported every proposal of Trump's, starting back in February."I have not heard any partners express doubts about America's ability to ensure that the war ends. The President of the United States has the levers and the determination. Ukraine has supported all of President Trump’s proposals, starting back in February. Ceasefire, all formats have been supported," he said in his video message.Zelensky said, “What is needed now is not a pause in the killings, but a real, lasting peace. Not a ceasefire sometime in the future, in months, but immediately.”

Zelensky shared a video message on X, slamming Putin, while he lauded the US and President Donald Trump's efforts to mediate a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine as the war is in its fourth year.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (August 10) stressed that Russian President Vladimir Putin is trying to legalise the occupation of Kyiv's territories as the attempts to reach the Russia-Ukraine ceasefire deal, calling it Putin's tactics. Zelensky shared a video message on X, slamming Putin, while he lauded the US and President Donald Trump's efforts to mediate a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine as the war is in its fourth year. "Everyone can clearly see Putin's tactics. He fears sanctions and is doing everything to bail on them. He wants to exchange a pause in the war, in the killings, for the legalisation of the occupation of our land," the Ukrainian president said.

Zelensky shared a video message on X, slamming Putin, while he lauded the US and President Donald Trump's efforts to mediate a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine as the war is in its fourth year.

Putin trying to sell ceasefire for a price? Zelensky blasts Russian president over ceasefire - WATCH his video message

Amid the ongoing standoff between the US and Russia, US &nbsp;President Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff met Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (August 5). Witkoff arrived in Russia today, just two days ahead of the August 8 deadline set by Trump for Russia to reach a ceasefire deal with Ukraine.&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin held "constructive" talks with Witkoff in Moscow over the Ukraine conflict, the Kremlin said Wednesday after the three-hour meeting.&nbsp;"A quite useful and constructive conversation took place," Putin's aide Yuri Ushakov said, adding that as well as Ukraine, Russia-US strategic cooperation was discussed.&nbsp;This comes as the US keeps threatening India with tariffs over its purchase of Russian oil amid its war with Ukraine. While the Russian president has stressed that he will not end his campaign in Ukraine, according to a Bloomberg report.&nbsp;WATCH | India pushes back against US criticism on Russian oil imports | Doval's Moscow visit amid US tariff&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-pushes-back-against-us-criticism-on-russian-oil-imports-doval-s-moscow-visit-amid-us-tariff-1754476165894/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-pushes-back-against-us-criticism-on-russian-oil-imports-doval-s-moscow-visit-amid-us-tariff-1754476165894/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump has been frustrated with Russia over its continued war in Ukraine, as hundreds of people are getting killed. Expressing “disappointment” with the Russian leader, Trump even reduced his 50-day deadline for Russia to 10-12 days because Putin “just won't stop killing people.”<h2>Russia attacks gas transportation facilities in Ukraine</h2>Just hours before Witkoff met Putin, Russia struck a gas facility in Ukraine's Odesa region. The Russian defence ministry confirmed that they have attacked the gas transportation facilities in Ukraine.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that it was an attempt to undermine Ukrainian preparations for winter, according to a Reuters report.&nbsp;“This was a deliberate blow to our preparations for the heating season, absolutely cynical, like every Russian blow to the energy sector,” Zelenskyy said on Telegram.&nbsp;Notably, Ukraine has faced a major gas shortage since a series of devastating Russian missile strikes this year, significantly reducing domestic gas production.

Trump's special envoy and Russian President Putin meets as the US keeps threatening India with tariffs over its purchase of Russian oil amid its war with Ukraine.

Amid the ongoing standoff between the US and Russia, US President Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff met Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (August 5). Witkoff arrived in Russia today, just two days ahead of the August 8 deadline set by Trump for Russia to reach a ceasefire deal with Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin held "constructive" talks with Witkoff in Moscow over the Ukraine conflict, the Kremlin said Wednesday after the three-hour meeting. "A quite useful and constructive conversation took place," Putin's aide Yuri Ushakov said, adding that as well as Ukraine, Russia-US strategic cooperation was discussed. This comes as the US keeps threatening India with tariffs over its purchase of Russian oil amid its war with Ukraine. While the Russian president has stressed that he will not end his campaign in Ukraine, according to a Bloomberg report. WATCH | India pushes back against US criticism on Russian oil imports | Doval's Moscow visit amid US tariff https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-pushes-back-against-us-criticism-on-russian-oil-imports-doval-s-moscow-visit-amid-us-tariff-1754476165894/embed Trump has been frustrated with Russia over its continued war in Ukraine, as hundreds of people are getting killed. Expressing “disappointment” with the Russian leader, Trump even reduced his 50-day deadline for Russia to 10-12 days because Putin “just won't stop killing people.” Russia attacks gas transportation facilities in Ukraine Just hours before Witkoff met Putin, Russia struck a gas facility in Ukraine's Odesa region. The Russian defence ministry confirmed that they have attacked the gas transportation facilities in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that it was an attempt to undermine Ukrainian preparations for winter, according to a Reuters report. “This was a deliberate blow to our preparations for the heating season, absolutely cynical, like every Russian blow to the energy sector,” Zelenskyy said on Telegram. Notably, Ukraine has faced a major gas shortage since a series of devastating Russian missile strikes this year, significantly reducing domestic gas production.

Trump's special envoy and Russian President Putin meets as the US keeps threatening India with tariffs over its purchase of Russian oil amid its war with Ukraine.

'Discussed Ukraine conflict': Trump's envoy Witkoff holds 'three-hour' long meeting with Putin amid US-Russia standoff

&nbsp;As Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine in the past weeks, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stressed that Ukraine might consider creating its own private military companies (PMCs). This happened in June after Russian President Vladimir Putin gave an ultimatum, demanding that Ukraine dissolve military formations.&nbsp;Zelensky, while speaking to media outlets, hinted at building his own military companies for equipment.&nbsp;"I will be thinking about it after these ultimatums," the Ukrainian president said in June. However, he did not specify what he meant by "private formations".&nbsp;Andrii Osadchuk, a lawmaker from the Holos party and first deputy head of the parliament's Law Enforcement Committee, said that he is "cautiously positive" about Zelensky's idea. But he called it "abstract" for now.&nbsp;"On the one hand, we'll have a human resource well-suited for this kind of work. And as a society, I believe we have an interest in offering these individuals meaningful employment," Osadchuk said.&nbsp;WATCH: Russia-Ukraine War: Trump warns of 'very severe tariffs' on Russiahttps://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-trump-warns-of-very-severe-tariffs-on-russia-1752671647372/embed<h2>Is it possible to create private military companies?</h2>According to Ukrainian law, it is not allowed to establish private military companies and prohibits the creation of paramilitary or armed formations. Despite the law, several organisations in Ukraine claim to be de facto PMCs and have been operating in a legal gray zone.&nbsp;"Today we are working in the interests of the (Ukrainian) state… One can deny the fact of our company's existence, but it does exist," Tetiana Kebkalo, a deputy director of the Kyiv Oblast-based Omega Consulting Group, told the Kyiv Independent.&nbsp;The Omega Consulting Group is a Ukrainian company that provides mission-critical solutions to government and commercial clients, specifically in areas of security, intelligence and military training.&nbsp;In the last seven years, three draft laws were aimed at legalising military consulting and international defence firms in Ukraine. The latest draft was introduced in April last year.&nbsp;However, these laws have been shown as efforts to build PMCs, but they don't really target that concern. A member of parliament's defence and intelligence committee told the outlets that Ukrainian lawmakers are ready to vote for a proper bill. While some lawmakers are cautious to do that.&nbsp;

Amid raging war with Russia, Zelensky has been eyeing to creating its own private military companies in Ukraine. A Ukrainian lawmaker said that he is "positive" about the Ukrainian president's idea, while also calling "abstract" for now. 

As Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine in the past weeks, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stressed that Ukraine might consider creating its own private military companies (PMCs). This happened in June after Russian President Vladimir Putin gave an ultimatum, demanding that Ukraine dissolve military formations. Zelensky, while speaking to media outlets, hinted at building his own military companies for equipment. "I will be thinking about it after these ultimatums," the Ukrainian president said in June. However, he did not specify what he meant by "private formations". Andrii Osadchuk, a lawmaker from the Holos party and first deputy head of the parliament's Law Enforcement Committee, said that he is "cautiously positive" about Zelensky's idea. But he called it "abstract" for now. "On the one hand, we'll have a human resource well-suited for this kind of work. And as a society, I believe we have an interest in offering these individuals meaningful employment," Osadchuk said. WATCH: Russia-Ukraine War: Trump warns of 'very severe tariffs' on Russia https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-trump-warns-of-very-severe-tariffs-on-russia-1752671647372/embed Is it possible to create private military companies? According to Ukrainian law, it is not allowed to establish private military companies and prohibits the creation of paramilitary or armed formations. Despite the law, several organisations in Ukraine claim to be de facto PMCs and have been operating in a legal gray zone. "Today we are working in the interests of the (Ukrainian) state… One can deny the fact of our company's existence, but it does exist," Tetiana Kebkalo, a deputy director of the Kyiv Oblast-based Omega Consulting Group, told the Kyiv Independent. The Omega Consulting Group is a Ukrainian company that provides mission-critical solutions to government and commercial clients, specifically in areas of security, intelligence and military training. In the last seven years, three draft laws were aimed at legalising military consulting and international defence firms in Ukraine. The latest draft was introduced in April last year. However, these laws have been shown as efforts to build PMCs, but they don't really target that concern. A member of parliament's defence and intelligence committee told the outlets that Ukrainian lawmakers are ready to vote for a proper bill. While some lawmakers are cautious to do that.

Amid raging war with Russia, Zelensky has been eyeing to creating its own private military companies in Ukraine. A Ukrainian lawmaker said that he is "positive" about the Ukrainian president's idea, while also calling "abstract" for now.&nbsp;

Zelensky plans to build private military companies amid Russia's raging war - But is it really possible for Ukraine?

The leaders of Russia and China, two of BRICS’ most influential founding members, have decided not to attend the upcoming summit in Brazil. For the first time in over a decade, Chinese President Xi Jinping will not attend a BRICS summit. Instead, Premier Li Qiang will represent Beijing in Brazil. The official explanation mentions “scheduling conflicts”, but the lack of clarity has prompted speculation that China may be reconsidering the group’s strategic value, especially after its rapid expansion.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-wants-putin-back-in-g7-and-make-it-g8-as-earlier-why-was-russia-kicked-out-can-it-return-1750155798487">Trump wants Putin back in G7 and make it G8 as earlier. Why was Russia kicked out?&nbsp;Can it&nbsp;return?</a>Russian President Vladimir Putin is also skipping the summit, a move widely linked to the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant against him. Brazil, the host nation, is a signatory to the ICC statute, and though it hasn’t indicated it would act on the warrant, Putin is avoiding any potential embarrassment for his hosts. He had similarly withdrawn from last year’s summit in South Africa over the same legal concerns.Putin stands accused by the ICC of playing a key role in the forced deportation of Ukrainian children, a charge that has further isolated him from international platforms.<h2>Expansion may have diluted the bloc’s core vision</h2>BRICS was originally formed as a unified voice of emerging economies, Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, positioning itself as a counterweight to the G7 and Western dominance.But the group’s recent expansion to include Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE has made it less ideologically cohesive. Many of the new members are authoritarian regimes, and not all share the original BRICS focus on reforming global governance or promoting multilateralism. This ideological drift could be part of why China and Russia are choosing to step back from active participation.Brazil, the summit host, sees BRICS as a platform to champion inclusive global governance, rather than an arena to vent frustration at the West. According to Antonio Patriota, Brazil’s ambassador to the UK and former foreign minister, a shift towards a multipolar world is already underway, thanks in part to past US policies under Donald Trump.Speaking recently in London, Patriota said, “The US, through its policies, including on tariffs and sovereignty, is accelerating the transition to multipolarity in different ways.”Brazil’s proposals for this year’s summit include:• Green energy cooperation• Vaccine collaboration• Expanding Most-Favoured Nation status within the WTOThe absence of Putin and Xi, both known for focusing heavily on anti-West narratives, may help Brazil steer the summit toward more constructive discussions on reform and global cooperation.<h2>A sign of internal strain, or strategy?</h2>While BRICS still presents itself as a powerful bloc, internal contradictions are becoming more visible. India remains wary of China. Brazil is trying to avoid being seen as anti-West. And some of the new members have divergent economic goals or existing partnerships with Western institutions.Xi’s absence, in particular, comes at a time when the US is retreating from global leadership, offering China a rare opportunity to take centre stage. Why Beijing would choose to pass on this chance remains unclear, and could signal a recalibration of its global alliances.Patriota dismissed the idea that a multipolar world would be chaotic. “There is strong support for preserving multilateralism, but that does not mean that we need to preserve it as it stands,” he said.But he also warned that waiting too long to reform existing systems could be dangerous, “Unless there is a strong movement towards reform now, we run the risk of reaching a tipping point.”

BRICS was originally formed as a unified voice of emerging economies, Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, positioning itself as a counterweight to the G7 and Western dominance.

The leaders of Russia and China, two of BRICS’ most influential founding members, have decided not to attend the upcoming summit in Brazil. For the first time in over a decade, Chinese President Xi Jinping will not attend a BRICS summit. Instead, Premier Li Qiang will represent Beijing in Brazil. The official explanation mentions “scheduling conflicts”, but the lack of clarity has prompted speculation that China may be reconsidering the group’s strategic value, especially after its rapid expansion. Also read: Trump wants Putin back in G7 and make it G8 as earlier. Why was Russia kicked out? Can it return? Russian President Vladimir Putin is also skipping the summit, a move widely linked to the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant against him. Brazil, the host nation, is a signatory to the ICC statute, and though it hasn’t indicated it would act on the warrant, Putin is avoiding any potential embarrassment for his hosts. He had similarly withdrawn from last year’s summit in South Africa over the same legal concerns. Putin stands accused by the ICC of playing a key role in the forced deportation of Ukrainian children, a charge that has further isolated him from international platforms. Expansion may have diluted the bloc’s core vision BRICS was originally formed as a unified voice of emerging economies, Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, positioning itself as a counterweight to the G7 and Western dominance. But the group’s recent expansion to include Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE has made it less ideologically cohesive. Many of the new members are authoritarian regimes, and not all share the original BRICS focus on reforming global governance or promoting multilateralism. This ideological drift could be part of why China and Russia are choosing to step back from active participation. Brazil, the summit host, sees BRICS as a platform to champion inclusive global governance, rather than an arena to vent frustration at the West. According to Antonio Patriota, Brazil’s ambassador to the UK and former foreign minister, a shift towards a multipolar world is already underway, thanks in part to past US policies under Donald Trump. Speaking recently in London, Patriota said, “The US, through its policies, including on tariffs and sovereignty, is accelerating the transition to multipolarity in different ways.” Brazil’s proposals for this year’s summit include: • Green energy cooperation • Vaccine collaboration • Expanding Most-Favoured Nation status within the WTO The absence of Putin and Xi, both known for focusing heavily on anti-West narratives, may help Brazil steer the summit toward more constructive discussions on reform and global cooperation. A sign of internal strain, or strategy? While BRICS still presents itself as a powerful bloc, internal contradictions are becoming more visible. India remains wary of China. Brazil is trying to avoid being seen as anti-West. And some of the new members have divergent economic goals or existing partnerships with Western institutions. Xi’s absence, in particular, comes at a time when the US is retreating from global leadership, offering China a rare opportunity to take centre stage. Why Beijing would choose to pass on this chance remains unclear, and could signal a recalibration of its global alliances. Patriota dismissed the idea that a multipolar world would be chaotic. “There is strong support for preserving multilateralism, but that does not mean that we need to preserve it as it stands,” he said. But he also warned that waiting too long to reform existing systems could be dangerous, “Unless there is a strong movement towards reform now, we run the risk of reaching a tipping point.”

BRICS was originally formed as a unified voice of emerging economies, Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, positioning itself as a counterweight to the G7 and Western dominance.

Is BRICS’ importance waning? Why Xi and Putin are skipping the Brazil summit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said his country is open to a ceasefire brokered by the United States, as he accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of seeking Ukraine’s “total defeat”.In an exclusive interview with ABC News on Sunday (June 08), Zelensky insisted that only “hard pressure” from the US and its European allies would be enough to push Putin towards a diplomatic solution.“Then they will stop the war,” Zelensky said. “I am convinced that the president of the United States has all the powers and enough leverage to step up,” he added.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/la-protest-trump-2000-national-guard-los-angeles-marines-next-all-you-need-to-know-1749400097503">Trump sends 2,000 National Guard to Los Angeles. Are Marines next? - All you need to know</a><h2>Ukraine rejects past ceasefires as Russia kept launching attacks</h2>Zelensky warned that temporary ceasefires in the past were never respected by Russia, as missile strikes and attacks continued.“People have to understand that we are under strikes, under attack every day,” he said. “You might remember that when they were talking about ceasefires, they still continued attacking and launching strikes,” he added.Zelensky said Ukraine is willing to accept a 30-day ceasefire without demanding a US security guarantee, as long as Russia also halts hostilities.<h2>Zelensky disagrees with Trump’s ‘children fighting’ comparison</h2>Zelensky pushed back on US President Donald Trump’s comments, where Trump compared the war in Ukraine to “two young children fighting like crazy”.The remark was made during Trump’s meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in the Oval Office. Trump said the war in Ukraine is like "two young children fighting like crazy" and "sometimes you're better off letting them fight for a while and then pulling them apart."Zelensky recalled the story of a Ukrainian man who lost his wife and children in a missile strike. “He told me, ‘I’m still looking for them beside me in the flat. And they are not there,’” Zelensky said.“Do people who haven’t lost the kids feel something like that? Probably not. Can a president who is in America feel exactly like this father? No,” he added."We are not kids with Putin at the playground in the park. This is why I am saying he is a murderer who came to this park to kill the kids," he said.<h2>Operation ‘Spiderweb’: Ukraine’s major strike on Russian bombers</h2>Just days earlier, Ukraine carried out a coordinated drone attack targeting Russian airfields. The operation, called “Spiderweb”, reportedly destroyed around a third of Russia’s strategic bombers.Zelensky said the secret mission had been in planning for 18 months and only hit military targets.“We can only counter [Russia’s aggression] with force. We understood if [Ukraine’s special services could] take some steps, we can stop [Russia] in their tracks,” Zelensky said.<h2>Kremlin calls it terrorism, Zelensky says it’s a clean military operation</h2>Russia called the drone attacks “an act of terrorism”, a claim Zelensky strongly rejected.“It’s [a] clean and clear military operation. It’s a step that showed everyone that we do not want this war,” he said. “We do not want to fight.”

Zelensky warned that temporary ceasefires in the past were never respected by Russia, as missile strikes and attacks continued.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said his country is open to a ceasefire brokered by the United States, as he accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of seeking Ukraine’s “total defeat”. In an exclusive interview with ABC News on Sunday (June 08), Zelensky insisted that only “hard pressure” from the US and its European allies would be enough to push Putin towards a diplomatic solution. “Then they will stop the war,” Zelensky said. “I am convinced that the president of the United States has all the powers and enough leverage to step up,” he added. Also read: Trump sends 2,000 National Guard to Los Angeles. Are Marines next? - All you need to know Ukraine rejects past ceasefires as Russia kept launching attacks Zelensky warned that temporary ceasefires in the past were never respected by Russia, as missile strikes and attacks continued. “People have to understand that we are under strikes, under attack every day,” he said. “You might remember that when they were talking about ceasefires, they still continued attacking and launching strikes,” he added. Zelensky said Ukraine is willing to accept a 30-day ceasefire without demanding a US security guarantee, as long as Russia also halts hostilities. Zelensky disagrees with Trump’s ‘children fighting’ comparison Zelensky pushed back on US President Donald Trump’s comments, where Trump compared the war in Ukraine to “two young children fighting like crazy”. The remark was made during Trump’s meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in the Oval Office. Trump said the war in Ukraine is like "two young children fighting like crazy" and "sometimes you're better off letting them fight for a while and then pulling them apart." Zelensky recalled the story of a Ukrainian man who lost his wife and children in a missile strike. “He told me, ‘I’m still looking for them beside me in the flat. And they are not there,’” Zelensky said. “Do people who haven’t lost the kids feel something like that? Probably not. Can a president who is in America feel exactly like this father? No,” he added. "We are not kids with Putin at the playground in the park. This is why I am saying he is a murderer who came to this park to kill the kids," he said. Operation ‘Spiderweb’: Ukraine’s major strike on Russian bombers Just days earlier, Ukraine carried out a coordinated drone attack targeting Russian airfields. The operation, called “Spiderweb”, reportedly destroyed around a third of Russia’s strategic bombers. Zelensky said the secret mission had been in planning for 18 months and only hit military targets. “We can only counter [Russia’s aggression] with force. We understood if [Ukraine’s special services could] take some steps, we can stop [Russia] in their tracks,” Zelensky said. Kremlin calls it terrorism, Zelensky says it’s a clean military operation Russia called the drone attacks “an act of terrorism”, a claim Zelensky strongly rejected. “It’s [a] clean and clear military operation. It’s a step that showed everyone that we do not want this war,” he said. “We do not want to fight.”

Zelensky warned that temporary ceasefires in the past were never respected by Russia, as missile strikes and attacks continued.

‘Putin is a murderer who came to kill the kids’: Zelensky hits back at Trump’s ‘children fighting’ remark — Here’s what he said

After Russia launched the "most powerful attack" on Ukraine's Kharkiv, US President Donald Trump appeared to justify the Kremlin's large-scale attack on Ukrainian cities, in retaliation to Ukraine's Operation Spiderweb.The US president said that they had the Russian president a reason to go in and bomb.“They gave (Russian President Vladimir) Putin a reason to go in and bomb the hell out of them last night," Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One."That's the thing I don't like about it. When I saw it I said 'here we go now it's going to be a strike,' Trump added.Russia launched more than 400 drones and 40 missiles across Ukrainian cities, killing six people and injuring more than 80."Today, rescue and emergency operations continued all day across various regions and cities of our country. Over 400 drones and more than 40 missiles were launched by the Russians. 80 people were injured, and some may still be under the debris," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Saturday in a post on X.However, according to a BBC report, Ukrainians pointed out that it is absurd to talk of retaliation when Russia has been bombing Ukrainian cities for more than three years.The night before Ukraine launched Operation Spiderweb, Russia launched 472 drones over Ukraine in one of the largest aerial assaults of the war so far."Unfortunately, not everyone in the world condemns such attacks. This is exactly what Putin exploits. He is buying himself time to keep waging war," the Ukrainian president stated on Saturday.The Ukrainian State Emergency Service confirmed the deaths of three firefighters in Kyiv, including three civilians.Zelensky said that the Russians constantly try to drive wedges into the unity of the world in order to prevent stronger pressure for their war.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-s-most-powerful-attack-on-kharkiv-unleashes-400-drones-40-missiles-as-it-retaliates-to-ukraine-s-operation-spiderweb-1749291073723">Also read: Russia's 'MOST POWERFUL' attack on Kharkiv: Unleashes 400 drones, 40 missiles as it retaliates to Ukraine's Operation Spiderweb</a>&nbsp;

Russia launched more than 400 drones and 40 missiles across Ukrainian cities, killing six people and injuring more than 80.

After Russia launched the "most powerful attack" on Ukraine's Kharkiv, US President Donald Trump appeared to justify the Kremlin's large-scale attack on Ukrainian cities, in retaliation to Ukraine's Operation Spiderweb. The US president said that they had the Russian president a reason to go in and bomb. “They gave (Russian President Vladimir) Putin a reason to go in and bomb the hell out of them last night," Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One. "That's the thing I don't like about it. When I saw it I said 'here we go now it's going to be a strike,' Trump added. Russia launched more than 400 drones and 40 missiles across Ukrainian cities, killing six people and injuring more than 80. "Today, rescue and emergency operations continued all day across various regions and cities of our country. Over 400 drones and more than 40 missiles were launched by the Russians. 80 people were injured, and some may still be under the debris," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Saturday in a post on X. However, according to a BBC report, Ukrainians pointed out that it is absurd to talk of retaliation when Russia has been bombing Ukrainian cities for more than three years. The night before Ukraine launched Operation Spiderweb, Russia launched 472 drones over Ukraine in one of the largest aerial assaults of the war so far. "Unfortunately, not everyone in the world condemns such attacks. This is exactly what Putin exploits. He is buying himself time to keep waging war," the Ukrainian president stated on Saturday. The Ukrainian State Emergency Service confirmed the deaths of three firefighters in Kyiv, including three civilians. Zelensky said that the Russians constantly try to drive wedges into the unity of the world in order to prevent stronger pressure for their war. Also read: Russia's 'MOST POWERFUL' attack on Kharkiv: Unleashes 400 drones, 40 missiles as it retaliates to Ukraine's Operation Spiderweb

Russia launched more than 400 drones and 40 missiles across Ukrainian cities, killing six people and injuring more than 80.

'Gave Putin a reason to bomb the hell out of them': Trump defends Russia's 'BIGGEST ATTACK' on Ukraine

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (June 5) warned Russian President Vladimir Putin as war with Ukraine intensifies, saying that if Russia is out of line, the US will be very tough.Trump further pointed out that he is not friends with either Russia or Ukraine."If Russia is out of line, you'll be amazed how tough we are. I'm not friends with anybody," Trump said during his meeting with Germany Chancellor Friedrich Merz at White House."Don't think Putin is playing games. I have always thought Putin wants all of Ukraine," the US president said, adding that he doesn't think Russia-Ukraine will sign a deal.Trump said that Putin got hit hard, "he wanted the whole thing.""When I see the moment when we're not going to make a deal and it's not going to stop, we will be very tough. It could be on both Russia or Ukraine. Actually, sometimes you're better off letting them fight for a while before pulling them apart," Trump said.He added that he told Putin, that "maybe you're going to have to keep fighting for a while before being pulled apart from Ukraine. There is some additional fighting going on with Ukraine and Russia. I told Putin don't retaliate to Ukraine, you should stop it," Trump said.Meanwhile, German Chancellor Merz told Trump that he is the 'key person' who can put pressure on Russia.When asked whether he agreed with an analogy Trump made on the war between Russia and Ukraine as being a fight between two kids, Merz said, "I think we both agree on this war and how terrible this war is and we are both looking for ways to stop it very soon.""I told the president before we came in that he is the key person in the world who can really do that now by putting pressure on Russia."The German chancellor said that we all have the duty to do something to stop the war, adding that his personal view "is clear"."We are on the side of Ukraine and we are trying to get them stronger and stronger just to make Putin stop this war," he said.&nbsp;

"If Russia is out of line, you'll be amazed how tough we are. I'm not friends with anybody," Trump said during his meeting with Germany Chancellor Friedrich Merz at White House.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (June 5) warned Russian President Vladimir Putin as war with Ukraine intensifies, saying that if Russia is out of line, the US will be very tough. Trump further pointed out that he is not friends with either Russia or Ukraine. "If Russia is out of line, you'll be amazed how tough we are. I'm not friends with anybody," Trump said during his meeting with Germany Chancellor Friedrich Merz at White House. "Don't think Putin is playing games. I have always thought Putin wants all of Ukraine," the US president said, adding that he doesn't think Russia-Ukraine will sign a deal. Trump said that Putin got hit hard, "he wanted the whole thing." "When I see the moment when we're not going to make a deal and it's not going to stop, we will be very tough. It could be on both Russia or Ukraine. Actually, sometimes you're better off letting them fight for a while before pulling them apart," Trump said. He added that he told Putin, that "maybe you're going to have to keep fighting for a while before being pulled apart from Ukraine. There is some additional fighting going on with Ukraine and Russia. I told Putin don't retaliate to Ukraine, you should stop it," Trump said. Meanwhile, German Chancellor Merz told Trump that he is the 'key person' who can put pressure on Russia. When asked whether he agreed with an analogy Trump made on the war between Russia and Ukraine as being a fight between two kids, Merz said, "I think we both agree on this war and how terrible this war is and we are both looking for ways to stop it very soon." "I told the president before we came in that he is the key person in the world who can really do that now by putting pressure on Russia." The German chancellor said that we all have the duty to do something to stop the war, adding that his personal view "is clear". "We are on the side of Ukraine and we are trying to get them stronger and stronger just to make Putin stop this war," he said.

"If Russia is out of line, you'll be amazed how tough we are. I'm not friends with anybody," Trump said during his meeting with Germany Chancellor Friedrich Merz at White House.

'If Russia is out of line...': Trump warns Putin as war with Ukraine escalates, says he's 'no friend' to Putin or Zelensky

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