US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 13) said that he would love to have Russia return to the G7 group of advanced economies, stressing that it was a "mistake" to throw them out.&nbsp;
Trump suggested various entities other than Moscow were to blame for Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.&nbsp;
"I'd love to have them back. I think it was a mistake to throw them out. Look, it's not a question of liking Russia or not liking Russia," the US president said at the White House.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-us-visit-live-updates-president-trump-to-host-dinner-for-indian-pm-at-white-house-full-schedule-8718153">PM Modi US visit Live: PM Modi, Trump address joint press&nbsp;conference</a>
Trump blamed former President Joe Biden and Russia's 2014 ouster from the Group of Eight (G8) as factors that may have led to the conflict.&nbsp;
<h2>Why does it matter?</h2>
The G7 nations include Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United States and the United Kingdom. These economies dominate global trade.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-on-the-side-of-peace-says-indian-pm-narendra-modi-on-ukraine-russia-war-ahead-of-bilateral-meet-with-us-president-donald-trump-8719280">'India not neutral', says PM Modi on Ukraine-Russia conflict, thanks Trump for initiative to end war</a>
Moreover, Russia was a member of the G8 until 2014 when it was expelled from the group in response to its annexation of Crimea, a region of Ukraine.
<h2>'Common sense' to let Russia back in</h2>
Earlier in June 2020, Trump called it "common sense" to let Russia back in, saying that addressing issues would be much easier with Moscow at the table.
However, Canada refused to bring Russia back. Germany also said that it was not the appropriate time.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-detains-senior-security-official-accuses-him-of-spying-for-russia-8717935">Ukraine detains senior security official, accuses him of spying for Russia</a>
Before that also, in 2018, Trump suggested that Russia be allowed to come back into the alliance.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I think it would have been very helpful, and it still would be helpful, to have Russia be part of that mix,&rdquo; Trump said. &ldquo;And if they were, I don&rsquo;t think you would have had the problem that you have now.&rdquo;
In February 2022, Russia launched an invasion of Ukraine that President Vladimir Putin said was in response to the expansion of the NATO alliance.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/friendship-between-india-and-us-strongest-it-has-ever-been-says-trump-after-bilateral-meet-with-modi-8719286">Friendship between India and US 'strongest it has ever been,' says Trump after bilateral meet with Modi</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump blamed former President Joe Biden and Russia's 2014 ouster from the Group of Eight (G8) as factors that may have led to the conflict.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 13) said that he would love to have Russia return to the G7 group of advanced economies, stressing that it was a "mistake" to throw them out. Trump suggested various entities other than Moscow were to blame for Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. "I'd love to have them back. I think it was a mistake to throw them out. Look, it's not a question of liking Russia or not liking Russia," the US president said at the White House. Also read: PM Modi US visit Live: PM Modi, Trump address joint press conference Trump blamed former President Joe Biden and Russia's 2014 ouster from the Group of Eight (G8) as factors that may have led to the conflict. Why does it matter? The G7 nations include Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United States and the United Kingdom. These economies dominate global trade. Also read: 'India not neutral', says PM Modi on Ukraine-Russia conflict, thanks Trump for initiative to end war Moreover, Russia was a member of the G8 until 2014 when it was expelled from the group in response to its annexation of Crimea, a region of Ukraine. 'Common sense' to let Russia back in Earlier in June 2020, Trump called it "common sense" to let Russia back in, saying that addressing issues would be much easier with Moscow at the table. However, Canada refused to bring Russia back. Germany also said that it was not the appropriate time. Also read: Ukraine detains senior security official, accuses him of spying for Russia Before that also, in 2018, Trump suggested that Russia be allowed to come back into the alliance. “I think it would have been very helpful, and it still would be helpful, to have Russia be part of that mix,” Trump said. “And if they were, I don’t think you would have had the problem that you have now.” In February 2022, Russia launched an invasion of Ukraine that President Vladimir Putin said was in response to the expansion of the NATO alliance. Also read: Friendship between India and US 'strongest it has ever been,' says Trump after bilateral meet with Modi (With inputs from agencies)

'Mistake to throw them out': Trump calls for Russia to rejoin G7. Why does it matter?

Trump announced a meeting with Putin in Saudi Arabia, aimed at restarting Ukraine peace negotiations. Saudi Crown Prince has played a key role in diplomacy, including Fogel’s release. Riyadh may host talks soon.

Trump’s new best friend Saudi Arabia is soft  bridge to hard Russia

Trump, Putin agree to start Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Saudi Arabia

Trump, Putin to meet in Saudi Arabia for Ukraine peace talks

Russia is pushing deeper into Ukraine, with its forces now targeting Toretsk in the Donetsk region. Kyiv reports the downing of a Russian SU-25 jet, while Ukraine denies full Russian control over the city. Meanwhile, Donald Trump claims to have spoken with Vladimir Putin, but the Kremlin remains silent.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russia advances in Ukraine as battle for toretsk intensifies

Trump Says He Spoke To Putin, Meanwhile, JD Vance is set to meet Ukraine's President Zelensky in Munich to discuss ongoing support and strategic cooperation. The meeting comes amidst heightened global attention on the Ukraine crisis.

Trump and Putin discuss Ukraine War – peace talks ahead?

Donald Trump reportedly spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin over the phone and discussed the Ukraine war, the US president told the New York Post in an interview aboard Air Force One on Friday (Feb 7). The report didn't mention when the interview exactly took place.&nbsp;
During the interview, Trump said he believes that the Russian leader &ldquo;does care&rdquo; about people dying on the battlefield. He added that he&rsquo;d better not say how many he times spoke with Putin.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-slams-trumps-aid-freeze-over-land-reform-misinformationa-8703458">South Africa slams Trump&rsquo;s aid freeze over land reform &lsquo;misinformation&rsquo;</a>
&ldquo;He wants to see people stop dying,&rdquo; said Trump. &ldquo;All those dead people. Young, young, beautiful people. They&rsquo;re like your kids, two million of them &ndash; and for no reason.&rdquo;
Trump added that the war that began three years ago &ldquo;never would have happened&rdquo; if he were the president in 2022. He said that he always had a good relationship with Putin, unlike his predecessor Joe Biden, who he believes was &ldquo;a complete embarrassment&rdquo; to the nation.
<h2>Kremlin says cannot confirm or deny Putin's call with Trump</h2>
The Kremlin has declined to confirm or deny the call between the two leaders on Sunday (Feb 9). Neither Washington nor Moscow have officially confirmed any communication between the leaders since the US president took office and vowed to end the war.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov in comments to TASS state news agency said, &ldquo;What can I say about this news item? As the administration in Washington expands its work, many different communications arise. And these communications are held through various channels.&rdquo;
&ldquo;And of course, given these multiple communications, I personally can not know something, not be aware of something. Therefore in this case I can't either confirm or deny this.&rdquo;
<h2>Trump has a &lsquo;strong plan&rsquo; to end war</h2>
The US president said that he has a strong plan to bring the war to an end.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-donald-trumps-tremendous-resentment-for-japan-fueled-his-tariff-obsession-8703283">How Donald Trump's 'tremendous resentment for Japan' fueled his tariff obsession</a>
&ldquo;I hope it&rsquo;s fast. Every day people are dying. This war is so bad in Ukraine. I want to end this damn thing.&rdquo;
Speaking to National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, who was also present during the interview, Trump said, &ldquo;Let&rsquo;s get these meetings going. They want to meet. Every day people are dying. Young handsome soldiers are being killed. Young men, like my sons. On both sides. All over the battlefield.&rdquo;
The president said that he wants to strike a $500 million deal with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky to access rare minerals and gas in exchange for security guarantees in any potential peace agreement.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-preparing-for-war-not-peace-or-negotiations-zelensky-claims-8703418">'Putin preparing for war, not peace or negotiations', Zelensky claims</a>
Vice President JD Vance is scheduled to meet Zelensky at the Munich Security Conference next week.
<h2>&lsquo;Would like a deal done with Iran&rsquo;</h2>
On Iran, Trump told the New York Post that he would like to make a deal with Iran on 'non-nuclear'.
&ldquo;I would prefer that to bombing the hell out of it... They don&rsquo;t want to die. Nobody wants to die,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;If we made the deal, Israel wouldn&rsquo;t bomb them.&rdquo;
However, he added that he would not reveal the details of any potential talks with Iran, saying, &ldquo;In a way, I don&rsquo;t like telling you what I&rsquo;m going to tell them. You know, it&rsquo;s not nice.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-dissidents-empowered-by-trumps-maximum-pressure-policy-demand-regimes-fall-8703438">'Demise has arrived': Iranian dissidents, empowered by Trump's 'maximum pressure' policy, demand regime&rsquo;s fall</a>
&ldquo;I could tell what I have to tell them, and I hope they decide that they&rsquo;re not going to do what they&rsquo;re currently thinking of doing. And I think they&rsquo;ll really be happy,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;I&rsquo;d tell them I&rsquo;d make a deal.&rdquo;
When asked about what he would offer Iran in return, Trump said, &ldquo;I can&rsquo;t say that because it&rsquo;s too nasty. I won&rsquo;t bomb them.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trump added that the war that began three years ago “never would have happened” if he were the president in 2022. He said that he always had a good relationship with Putin, unlike his predecessor Joe Biden.

Donald Trump reportedly spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin over the phone and discussed the Ukraine war, the US president told the New York Post in an interview aboard Air Force One on Friday (Feb 7). The report didn't mention when the interview exactly took place. During the interview, Trump said he believes that the Russian leader “does care” about people dying on the battlefield. He added that he’d better not say how many he times spoke with Putin. Also read | South Africa slams Trump’s aid freeze over land reform ‘misinformation’ “He wants to see people stop dying,” said Trump. “All those dead people. Young, young, beautiful people. They’re like your kids, two million of them – and for no reason.” Trump added that the war that began three years ago “never would have happened” if he were the president in 2022. He said that he always had a good relationship with Putin, unlike his predecessor Joe Biden, who he believes was “a complete embarrassment” to the nation. Kremlin says cannot confirm or deny Putin's call with Trump The Kremlin has declined to confirm or deny the call between the two leaders on Sunday (Feb 9). Neither Washington nor Moscow have officially confirmed any communication between the leaders since the US president took office and vowed to end the war. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov in comments to TASS state news agency said, “What can I say about this news item? As the administration in Washington expands its work, many different communications arise. And these communications are held through various channels.” “And of course, given these multiple communications, I personally can not know something, not be aware of something. Therefore in this case I can't either confirm or deny this.” Trump has a ‘strong plan’ to end war The US president said that he has a strong plan to bring the war to an end. Also read | How Donald Trump's 'tremendous resentment for Japan' fueled his tariff obsession “I hope it’s fast. Every day people are dying. This war is so bad in Ukraine. I want to end this damn thing.” Speaking to National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, who was also present during the interview, Trump said, “Let’s get these meetings going. They want to meet. Every day people are dying. Young handsome soldiers are being killed. Young men, like my sons. On both sides. All over the battlefield.” The president said that he wants to strike a $500 million deal with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky to access rare minerals and gas in exchange for security guarantees in any potential peace agreement. Also read | 'Putin preparing for war, not peace or negotiations', Zelensky claims Vice President JD Vance is scheduled to meet Zelensky at the Munich Security Conference next week. ‘Would like a deal done with Iran’ On Iran, Trump told the New York Post that he would like to make a deal with Iran on 'non-nuclear'. “I would prefer that to bombing the hell out of it... They don’t want to die. Nobody wants to die,” he said. “If we made the deal, Israel wouldn’t bomb them.” However, he added that he would not reveal the details of any potential talks with Iran, saying, “In a way, I don’t like telling you what I’m going to tell them. You know, it’s not nice.” Also read | 'Demise has arrived': Iranian dissidents, empowered by Trump's 'maximum pressure' policy, demand regime’s fall “I could tell what I have to tell them, and I hope they decide that they’re not going to do what they’re currently thinking of doing. And I think they’ll really be happy,” he said. “I’d tell them I’d make a deal.” When asked about what he would offer Iran in return, Trump said, “I can’t say that because it’s too nasty. I won’t bomb them.” (With inputs from agencies)

Trump talks to Putin, says Russian president ‘wants to see people stop dying’ in Ukraine war: Report

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (Feb 8) stressed that Russian President Vladimir <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/putin" rel="dofollow">Putin</a> is not preparing for negotiations or peace, but for the continuation of war.&nbsp;
The Ukrainian president said that Russia is forming new divisions and developing new military production facilities.&nbsp;
"This means one simple thing&mdash;Putin is preparing not for negotiations, not for peace, but for the continuation of the war&mdash;and not only against Ukraine," Zelensky said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-open-to-face-to-face-talks-with-enemy-putin-but-only-under-one-condition-8691634" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Won't be kind to him&rsquo;: Zelensky open to face-to-face talks with 'enemy' Putin, but only under one condition</a>
He further said that Russia's cooperation with North Korea will continue to expand, adding that Moscow is also spreading modern warfare technologies to the region, "particularly drone technologies."&nbsp;
"They are now increasing their army by more than a hundred thousand soldiers," the Ukrainian president claimed.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-calls-for-us-companies-to-invest-in-ukraines-rare-earths-8691277" rel="dofollow">Zelensky invites US companies to invest in Ukraine's rare earths</a>
He warned "All partners must be aware of this and see it clearly."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Intelligence reports confirm that Russia is forming new divisions and developing new military production facilities. Their cooperation with North Korea will continue to expand. Moscow is also spreading modern warfare technologies to the region, particularly drone technologies.&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/2r5Uw4IdGQ">pic.twitter.com/2r5Uw4IdGQ</a>
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1888252053392159125?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
Earlier on Friday, Zelensky said that North Korean troops have returned to the frontline in Russia's Kursk region. A &ldquo;significant number&rdquo; of opposing troops had been &ldquo;destroyed&rdquo;, he said. &ldquo;We are talking about hundreds of Russian and North Korean soldiers.&rdquo;
North Korea sent more than 10,000 soldiers to Russia last year to help Moscow in its war with Ukraine.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-russia-ready-for-peace-talks-but-rules-out-speaking-directly-with-illegitimate-zelensky-8662995" rel="dofollow"> Putin says Russia ready for peace talks but rules out speaking directly with 'illegitimate' Zelensky</a>
US President Donald Trump on Friday said he would "probably" meet Zelensky next week. The US president when asked by reporters in the White House whether such a meeting would be in Washington, replied that it &ldquo;could be Washington &ndash; well, I&rsquo;m not going there&rdquo;, referring to Kyiv.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re also planning meetings and talks at the teams&rsquo; level. Right now Ukrainian and American teams are working out the details," he said in a post on X.&nbsp;
&nbsp;Zelenskyy&rsquo;s chief of staff said Ukraine was looking forward to a visit this month by Trump&rsquo;s special envoy for the region.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Zelensky said that Russia is forming new divisions and developing new military production facilities, adding Putin is preparing not for negotiations but for war. 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (Feb 8) stressed that Russian President Vladimir Putin is not preparing for negotiations or peace, but for the continuation of war. The Ukrainian president said that Russia is forming new divisions and developing new military production facilities. "This means one simple thing—Putin is preparing not for negotiations, not for peace, but for the continuation of the war—and not only against Ukraine," Zelensky said. Also read: ‘Won't be kind to him’: Zelensky open to face-to-face talks with 'enemy' Putin, but only under one condition He further said that Russia's cooperation with North Korea will continue to expand, adding that Moscow is also spreading modern warfare technologies to the region, "particularly drone technologies." "They are now increasing their army by more than a hundred thousand soldiers," the Ukrainian president claimed. Also read: Zelensky invites US companies to invest in Ukraine's rare earths He warned "All partners must be aware of this and see it clearly." Intelligence reports confirm that Russia is forming new divisions and developing new military production facilities. Their cooperation with North Korea will continue to expand. Moscow is also spreading modern warfare technologies to the region, particularly drone technologies.… pic.twitter.com/2r5Uw4IdGQ — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) February 8, 2025 Earlier on Friday, Zelensky said that North Korean troops have returned to the frontline in Russia's Kursk region. A “significant number” of opposing troops had been “destroyed”, he said. “We are talking about hundreds of Russian and North Korean soldiers.” North Korea sent more than 10,000 soldiers to Russia last year to help Moscow in its war with Ukraine. Also read: Putin says Russia ready for peace talks but rules out speaking directly with 'illegitimate' Zelensky US President Donald Trump on Friday said he would "probably" meet Zelensky next week. The US president when asked by reporters in the White House whether such a meeting would be in Washington, replied that it “could be Washington – well, I’m not going there”, referring to Kyiv. “We’re also planning meetings and talks at the teams’ level. Right now Ukrainian and American teams are working out the details," he said in a post on X. Zelenskyy’s chief of staff said Ukraine was looking forward to a visit this month by Trump’s special envoy for the region. (With inputs from agencies)

'Putin preparing for war, not peace or negotiations', Zelensky claims

Kyiv was hit by a deadly Russian aerial strike, leaving three dead and five injured. As Russia intensifies its offensive, Ukraine relies on drones to counter the attacks. Drone warfare is reshaping the battlefield as both sides escalate their military strategies.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russia pounds Kyiv with deadly strikes as Ukraine fights back with drones

Ukraine has been granted fighter jets from the Netherlands and France, offering a significant boost to its military capabilities as the war with Russia intensifies. This support is seen as a critical step in bolstering Ukraine's defense and enhancing its air power, fueling hope for a shift in the conflict's dynamics.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine gets Dutch and French fighter jets, boosts hope

Russia has conducted drills involving its Yars intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) in the Volga region, signaling a show of military strength as the war with Ukraine continues. These exercises are seen as a demonstration of Russia's nuclear capabilities, adding to the growing tension in the ongoing conflict and raising concerns over escalation.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia conducts Yars ICBM drills in the Volga region

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announces that Ukraine has significantly increased its diplomatic and military contact with the United States, marking a shift in the strategic relationship between the two nations amidst ongoing tensions with Russia.

Ukraine has significantly intensified contact with the U.S. says Zelensky

With the war entering a dangerous phase and US President Donald Trump mounting pressure to end the war, Zelensky has finally blinked to say he has agreed to hold direct talks with Vladimir Putin. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky calls for dialogue amid much-awaited Putin-Trump talks

U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that he is open to making a deal with Iran to improve bilateral relations but warned that Tehran must not develop a nuclear weapon.

Trump pushes ‘maximum pressure’ on Iran – nuclear tensions rise

During his visit to Kyiv, the IAEA chief warned of the escalating nuclear risks posed by ongoing attacks on Ukraine's power grid. The warning highlights concerns over the safety of nuclear facilities and the potential global implications of further energy infrastructure strikes amidst the ongoing conflict.

IAEA chief warns of nuclear risk from attacks on Ukraine’s power grid during Kyiv visit

In the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Donald Trump proposes a controversial approach, suggesting military aid to Ukraine could be linked to securing mineral resources crucial for health and defense. His remarks have sparked debates about foreign policy priorities and geopolitical strategies.

Russia-Ukraine War: Trump's controversial Ukraine gambit, military aid tied to mineral health

With the war raging on between Russia and Ukraine, U.S. President Donald Trump has demanded Ukraine provide its rare earth minerals as compensation for the vast military aid provided by Washington. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Donald Trump Wants Kyiv's Rare Minerals In Return For US Aid

Ukrainian President Zelensky calls for an additional $100 billion in U.S. aid to support Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia.

Zelensky says that U.S. still needs to give an additional $100 billion in Aid

Russia's use of glide bombs escalates the strain on Ukraine's air defense systems, which are increasingly unable to fend off attacks amid the ongoing conflict.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian glide bombs adds pressure on Kyiv's diminishing Air Defenses

A day after the attack on a school in Sudzha, a city in Russia's Kursk region, both Moscow and Kyiv have been trading blames for carrying out the deadly strike.
Four people were killed and four others seriously injured after the strike on the school, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, 84 people were rescued by Ukrainian servicemen from the rubble of the building.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-why-ukrainian-soldiers-are-running-away-as-war-with-russia-drags-on-8679412" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Realised I&rsquo;m nobody, just a number&rsquo;: Why Ukrainian soldiers are running away as war with Russia drags on</a>
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/russia-0" rel="dofollow">Russia</a> bombed the boarding school where civilians were sheltering and preparing to evacuate.&nbsp;
"This is a state devoid of civility. And this is an evil that will not stop on its own. But if we act strongly and decisively, even Russia can be forced to stop. And this must be done to ensure the world is safe from Russian bombs," Zelensky said.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This is how Russia wages war&mdash;Sudzha, Kursk region, Russian territory, a boarding school with civilians preparing to evacuate. A Russian aerial bomb. They destroyed the building even though dozens of civilians were there. This is how Russia waged war against Chechnya decades ago.&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/MG4MVhcumS">pic.twitter.com/MG4MVhcumS</a>
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1885779119180238928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
The General Staff said those in need of additional medical assistance were evacuated to medical facilities in Ukraine.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-drone-barrage-kills-four-in-east-ukraine-8675037" rel="dofollow">Russian drone barrage kills four in east Ukraine</a>
Meanwhile, the Russian Ministry of Defence claimed that the Ukrainian forces launched the missile strike on the school, adding that the missiles were launched from Ukraine's Sumy region.
<h2>Strike on Ukraine's Poltava</h2>
In another strike a Russian missile killed 11 people in the central city of Poltava while injuring 16 others, including four children. Twenty Two people were rescued from the rubble and emergency crews worked well into the night.&nbsp;
On Saturday, Russia launched a barrage of drones and missiles against Ukraine, killing at least 15 people and damaging dozens of residential buildings, including the energy infrastructure across the country.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-russia-ready-for-peace-talks-but-rules-out-speaking-directly-with-illegitimate-zelensky-8662995" rel="dofollow">Putin says Russia ready for peace talks but rules out speaking directly with 'illegitimate' Zelensky</a>
Russia on Sunday, sent 55 drones into Ukraine of which 40 were destroyed during the overnight attacks, said Ukrainian officials. Thriteen&nbsp;other drones were "lost", likely having been electronically jammed.&nbsp;
Moreover, the Russian Defence Ministry said that five Ukrainian drones were shot down overnight in five regions of western Russia, three over the Kursk region, and one each over the Belgorod and Bryansk regions.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos &nbsp; (With inputs from agencies)

World: Four people were killed and four others were seriously injured after the strike on the school, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said. 

A day after the attack on a school in Sudzha, a city in Russia's Kursk region, both Moscow and Kyiv have been trading blames for carrying out the deadly strike. Four people were killed and four others seriously injured after the strike on the school, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said. Meanwhile, 84 people were rescued by Ukrainian servicemen from the rubble of the building. Also read: ‘Realised I’m nobody, just a number’: Why Ukrainian soldiers are running away as war with Russia drags on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia bombed the boarding school where civilians were sheltering and preparing to evacuate. "This is a state devoid of civility. And this is an evil that will not stop on its own. But if we act strongly and decisively, even Russia can be forced to stop. And this must be done to ensure the world is safe from Russian bombs," Zelensky said. This is how Russia wages war—Sudzha, Kursk region, Russian territory, a boarding school with civilians preparing to evacuate. A Russian aerial bomb. They destroyed the building even though dozens of civilians were there. This is how Russia waged war against Chechnya decades ago.… pic.twitter.com/MG4MVhcumS — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) February 1, 2025 The General Staff said those in need of additional medical assistance were evacuated to medical facilities in Ukraine. Also read: Russian drone barrage kills four in east Ukraine Meanwhile, the Russian Ministry of Defence claimed that the Ukrainian forces launched the missile strike on the school, adding that the missiles were launched from Ukraine's Sumy region. Strike on Ukraine's Poltava In another strike a Russian missile killed 11 people in the central city of Poltava while injuring 16 others, including four children. Twenty Two people were rescued from the rubble and emergency crews worked well into the night. On Saturday, Russia launched a barrage of drones and missiles against Ukraine, killing at least 15 people and damaging dozens of residential buildings, including the energy infrastructure across the country. Also read: Putin says Russia ready for peace talks but rules out speaking directly with 'illegitimate' Zelensky Russia on Sunday, sent 55 drones into Ukraine of which 40 were destroyed during the overnight attacks, said Ukrainian officials. Thriteen other drones were "lost", likely having been electronically jammed. Moreover, the Russian Defence Ministry said that five Ukrainian drones were shot down overnight in five regions of western Russia, three over the Kursk region, and one each over the Belgorod and Bryansk regions. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Russia and Ukraine blame each other for deadly missile strike on school in Kursk that killed four

An oil refinery in Russia's southern Volgograd region caught fire after an overnight Ukrainian drone attack, but the blaze has now been put out, the regional governor said on Friday.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine launches drone strikes on Russia's largest oil refinery | WION Originals

Amid impending talks between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Russian forces are pressing forward on multiple fronts across Ukraine. Both in the air and on the ground.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian drones devastate Ukraine warfront before Putin-Trump talks

Russian forces have stormed and seized the strategic heights of Chasiv Yar, intensifying the conflict as Ukraine's defense efforts continue.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russians storm strategic heights of Chasiv Yar

A large-scale drone attack by Ukraine on Russian territory has left 2 dead and 2 injured, escalating tensions in the ongoing conflict.

Russia-Ukraine War: 2 killed, 2 injured in massive Ukraine Drone attack on Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin has ruled out any negotiations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, calling him “illegitimate.” This comes as Russian forces took control of another key town in the Kharkiv region.

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin rejects talks with ‘illegitimate’ Zelensky as Russia captures another town

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Jan 28) said that he would allocate people to hold peace talks with Ukraine if Volodymyr Zelensky wants to take part in the negotiations, however, he ruled out the possibility of speaking directly to the Ukrainian leader, whom he labelled "illegitimate".
To this, Zelensky responded saying that Putin was "afraid" of negotiations. He further fired back at the Russian president accusing him of intentionally prolonging the nearly three-year conflict using "cynical tricks".
United States President Donald Trump, since taking his office for the second term on Jan 20, has pushed both the warring sides to end the fighting.&nbsp;
Trump has threatened sanctions on Russia stating that Ukraine is ready for the negotiation talks to broker a "deal".
"If (Zelensky) wants to participate in the negotiations, I will allocate people to take part," Putin said, calling the Ukrainian leader "illegitimate" because his presidential term expired during martial law.
"If there is a desire to negotiate and find a compromise, let anyone lead the negotiations there... Naturally, we will strive for what suits us, what corresponds to our interests," he added.
Zelensky expressed hope stating that there was a chance for "real peace," but accused Putin of thwarting efforts to end the conflict.&nbsp;
"Today, Putin once again confirmed that he is afraid of negotiations, afraid of strong leaders, and does everything possible to prolong the war," Zelensky wrote on X.
Zelensky has warned that Ukraine should not be excluded from any peace talks that take place between Russia and the United States, accusing Putin of wanting to "manipulate" Trump.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-zelensky-says-us-has-not-stopped-military-aid-to-kyiv-8654837">Also read: Ukraine war: Zelensky says US has not stopped military aid to Kyiv</a>
<h3>Putin claims fighting would end if support were cut down for Ukraine</h3>
Putin said that the fighting would come to an end if the West cut its support for Ukraine.&nbsp;
"They will not exist for a month if the money and, in a broad sense, the bullets run out. Everything would be over in a month and a half or two," Putin said in comments to a state TV reporter.
Russia's military on Tuesday said that the forces had seized a large village in Ukraine's northeastern Kharkiv region.
The Russian defence ministry said its forces had "liberated" the Dvorichna village which was home to a population of over 3,000 before the war.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed hope stating that there was a chance for "real peace," but accused Vladimir Putin of thwarting efforts to end the conflict. 


Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Jan 28) said that he would allocate people to hold peace talks with Ukraine if Volodymyr Zelensky wants to take part in the negotiations, however, he ruled out the possibility of speaking directly to the Ukrainian leader, whom he labelled "illegitimate". To this, Zelensky responded saying that Putin was "afraid" of negotiations. He further fired back at the Russian president accusing him of intentionally prolonging the nearly three-year conflict using "cynical tricks". United States President Donald Trump, since taking his office for the second term on Jan 20, has pushed both the warring sides to end the fighting. Trump has threatened sanctions on Russia stating that Ukraine is ready for the negotiation talks to broker a "deal". "If (Zelensky) wants to participate in the negotiations, I will allocate people to take part," Putin said, calling the Ukrainian leader "illegitimate" because his presidential term expired during martial law. "If there is a desire to negotiate and find a compromise, let anyone lead the negotiations there... Naturally, we will strive for what suits us, what corresponds to our interests," he added. Zelensky expressed hope stating that there was a chance for "real peace," but accused Putin of thwarting efforts to end the conflict. "Today, Putin once again confirmed that he is afraid of negotiations, afraid of strong leaders, and does everything possible to prolong the war," Zelensky wrote on X. Zelensky has warned that Ukraine should not be excluded from any peace talks that take place between Russia and the United States, accusing Putin of wanting to "manipulate" Trump. Also read: Ukraine war: Zelensky says US has not stopped military aid to Kyiv Putin claims fighting would end if support were cut down for Ukraine Putin said that the fighting would come to an end if the West cut its support for Ukraine. "They will not exist for a month if the money and, in a broad sense, the bullets run out. Everything would be over in a month and a half or two," Putin said in comments to a state TV reporter. Russia's military on Tuesday said that the forces had seized a large village in Ukraine's northeastern Kharkiv region. The Russian defence ministry said its forces had "liberated" the Dvorichna village which was home to a population of over 3,000 before the war. (With inputs from agencies)

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