Russia shut down a military base in Azerbaijan. Nearly 2,000 of its troops had been deployed in the military base in Karabakh. This move came after Azeri forces recaptured the area last year.

Russian troops leave Karabakh, now back under Azerbaijan's control

Russia's President Vladimir Putin landed in Beijing on Thursday for a two-day state visit to China, in a show of unity between the authoritarian allies as Moscow presses forward with a new offensive in Ukraine. Watch in for more details!

Russian President Putin arrives in China for state visit in a show of unity

Watch top headlines of the hour: - New Caledonia: France sends troops - Xi & Putin condemn US - UK to ban gender identity teaching - Microsoft asks some China staff to relocate - Toshiba to cut up to 4,000 jobs in Japan

New Caledonia: France send troops | Xi & Putin condemn US

Russian President Vladimir Putin is in the China on his first foreign visit after being re-elected and sworn in as Russia’s president. The Russian president has brought a large delegation consisting of five deputy prime ministers, heads of economic, diplomatic and security agencies - along with a number of CEO's. There will also be a closed door meeting with Xi - in the ‘1+4 format’ - what to expect? What's on the cards?

Putin's China visit: Putin in Beijing, Xi hails ties with Russia

Putin visits China: Ukraine war & bilateral trade dominate talks

<p>During talks between Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, both leaders concurred on the imperative for a "political solution" to the conflict in Ukraine. Meeting in Beijing during the Russian president's visit, the two heads of state also signed a joint declaration.</p>

<p>In a press conference aired by Russian media, Xi said,&nbsp;"Both sides agree that a political solution to the Ukraine crisis is the correct direction."&nbsp;This comes as West is concerned that China is bolstering Russia's economy and supplying weapons components for the conflict in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (May 16) said that closed military-political partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region were "harmful".&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a press briefing, Putin said,&nbsp;"It is necessary to work towards building a reliable and appropriate security architecture in the Asia-Pacific region, in which there is no place for closed military-political alliances. We believe they are very harmful and the creation of such alliances is counterproductive."&nbsp;Putin is currently on a two-day state visit.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-arrives-in-china-in-first-overseas-trip-since-russia-re-elects-him-in-march-721897">Russia-China ties 'conducive to peace': Xi tells Putin</a></p>

<p>This year marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Russia and China. "Rising economic ties between Russia, China exemplify mutual&nbsp;development," Xi said.</p>

<p>The Chinese President also commented on the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza and endorsed the need for an Independent&nbsp;Palestine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today's world still suffers from cold War mentality, threats&nbsp;to&nbsp;peace... War in Gaza must be resolved with recognition of Independent&nbsp;Palestine," Xi said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/slovak-pm-robert-fico-not-in-life-threatening-situation-dy-pm-gives-update-721901">Slovak PM Robert Fico 'not in life-threatening situation': Dy PM gives update</a></p>

<p>While Putin, in a statement that demonstrates close Russia-China relationship, said that he remains in constant contact with Xi to discuss and control "difficult matters".</p>

<h2><strong>China-Russia expanding ties&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Putin said that Rosatom, Russia's nuclear energy company, is collaborating with China to develop units and enhance&nbsp;China's energy infrastructure. Russia and China are also jointly working on international transport corridors to strengthen connectivity. The two nations continuously&nbsp;hold cultural exchange programs to deepen ties, while educational and scientific partnerships are also expanding between the two nations.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/netherlands-set-for-right-wing-government-after-wilders-strikes-deal-722023">Netherlands set for right-wing government after Wilders strikes deal</a></strong></p>

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<p>Xi said the China-Russia ties are 'conducive to peace', while, in a similar statement, Putin stated that the ties between the two nations are 'stabilising' for world."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


During talks between Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, both leaders concurred on the imperative for a "political solution" to the conflict in Ukraine.

During talks between Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, both leaders concurred on the imperative for a "political solution" to the conflict in Ukraine. Meeting in Beijing during the Russian president's visit, the two heads of state also signed a joint declaration. In a press conference aired by Russian media, Xi said, "Both sides agree that a political solution to the Ukraine crisis is the correct direction." This comes as West is concerned that China is bolstering Russia's economy and supplying weapons components for the conflict in Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (May 16) said that closed military-political partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region were "harmful". During a press briefing, Putin said, "It is necessary to work towards building a reliable and appropriate security architecture in the Asia-Pacific region, in which there is no place for closed military-political alliances. We believe they are very harmful and the creation of such alliances is counterproductive." Putin is currently on a two-day state visit. Also Read | Russia-China ties 'conducive to peace': Xi tells Putin This year marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Russia and China. "Rising economic ties between Russia, China exemplify mutual development," Xi said. The Chinese President also commented on the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza and endorsed the need for an Independent Palestine. "Today's world still suffers from cold War mentality, threats to peace... War in Gaza must be resolved with recognition of Independent Palestine," Xi said. Also Read | Slovak PM Robert Fico 'not in life-threatening situation': Dy PM gives update While Putin, in a statement that demonstrates close Russia-China relationship, said that he remains in constant contact with Xi to discuss and control "difficult matters". China-Russia expanding ties Meanwhile, Putin said that Rosatom, Russia's nuclear energy company, is collaborating with China to develop units and enhance China's energy infrastructure. Russia and China are also jointly working on international transport corridors to strengthen connectivity. The two nations continuously hold cultural exchange programs to deepen ties, while educational and scientific partnerships are also expanding between the two nations. Watch | Netherlands set for right-wing government after Wilders strikes deal × Xi said the China-Russia ties are 'conducive to peace', while, in a similar statement, Putin stated that the ties between the two nations are 'stabilising' for world." (With inputs from agencies)

Xi Jinping, Putin advocate 'political solution' to Ukraine war

Russian President Vladimir Putin was greeted by Xi Jinping in a grand welcome ceremony at the square outside the Great Hall of the People. Xi then led Putin on a walk around the square, after which the duo had meeting in the Great Hall. Watch in for more details!

Xi Jinping hails ties with Russia as conducive to peace, says 'China ready to work with Russia'

Russia President Putin on a two-day state visit to China, Ukraine war & trade dominate talks

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Beijing: Xi and Putin 'rejuvenate' ties - Charles' 'Blood Red' portrait divides internet - UK eyes financial reforms - Russia makes biggest Ukraine gains - 'China-Russia ties stabilising for world'

Russia makes biggest Ukraine gains | 'China-Russia ties stabilising for world'

Russian President Vladimir Putin is in Beijing. Two of the world's most influential leaders are holding a bilateral meeting. Xi Jinping tells Vladimir Putin that he wants to deepen ties between the two countries.

''China will always be a good neighbour...'': Xi tells Putin in Beijing

Russian President Vladimir Putin is in the China on his first foreign visit after being re-elected and sworn in as Russia’s president. The Russian president has brought a large delegation consisting of five deputy prime ministers, heads of economic, diplomatic and security agencies - along with a number of CEO's. There will also be a closed door meeting with Xi - in the ‘1+4 format’ - what to expect? What's on the cards? WION's Shivan Chanana discusses with Dr. Gilbert Doctorow Historian, Author and Political Commentator from Brussels.

Putin Meets Xi in China | Tactical nuclear deployment being discussed in closed door meet?

<p>Chinese President Xi Jinping, in talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who landed in Beijing on Thursday&nbsp;(May 16)&nbsp;said the ties between both the countries&nbsp;are 'conducive to peace'. Putin echoed similar thoughts and said that the&nbsp;ties between the two nations are 'stabilising' for world," reported AFP.</p>

<p>This is Putins&nbsp;first overseas visit since his re-election in March and&nbsp;solidifying&nbsp;his grip on power in the country. He&nbsp;secured a landslide victory in the eighth presidential election held in Russia&nbsp;and&nbsp;commenced his fifth term in office.</p>

<p>Putin is on a two-day state visit to China, as confirmed by Russian state media. Arriving in the Chinese capital of Beijing, Putin received a warm welcome from Chinese officials and a guard of&nbsp;honour.</p>

<p>Ahead of his visit, Putin while responding to China's Xinhua news agency over how he assesses cooperation between China and Russia within BRICS, the SCO and other multilateral mechanisms, slammed US.</p>

<p>In his remarks, Putin said, "The countries that affiliate themselves with the so‑called ”golden billion“ do not seem to think so. US‑led Western elites refuse to respect civilizational and cultural diversity and reject centuries-old traditional values."</p>

<p>"Seeking to retain their global dominance, they have usurped the right to tell other nations whom they may, or must not, make friends and cooperate with, and to deny them the right to choose their own development models. They disregard other countries' sovereign interests. They seek to ensure their well‑being at the expense of other states, just like in the old days, and resort to neo-colonial methods to that end."</p>

<p>Putin added,&nbsp;"needless to say, neither Russia nor its partners are happy with this state of affairs. We have actively contributed to launching multilateral associations and mechanisms that are independent of the West and are successfully operating. In their work they build on the principles of equality, justice, transparency, respect and consideration of each other's interests."</p>

<h2><strong>Russia picks China as first overseas country for visit post-elections</strong></h2>

<p>Picking China as the first overseas country for his visit post-elections holds symbolic importance as it underscores&nbsp;the deepening ties between Russia and China amid escalating tensions with Western powers and the dragged-on war with Ukraine, where Moscow has made some significant advances in recent days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-police-hunt-killers-in-prison-van-ambush-721896">French police hunt killers in prison van ambush</a></p>

<p>Putin's arrival coincided with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's decision to suspend all forthcoming international visits as his forces confront Russian incursions in northeastern Kharkiv, a city that witnessed evacuation of thousands of people amid Moscow's ground assault.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Against this backdrop, discussions between Xi and Putin are expected to address the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/western-allies-denounce-georgia-foreign-influence-law-721894">Western allies denounce Georgia 'foreign influence' law</a></p>

<p>Both the leaders are also expected to hold dialogue on bolstering their nation's&nbsp;economic collaborations, as well as energy and security ties.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russia-unleashes-new-attacks-on-ukraines-kherson-721875">Russia-Ukraine war: Russia unleashes new attacks on Ukraine's Kherson</a></strong></p>

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<p>Putin's visit is the fourth face-to-face meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping since the Ukraine invasion broke out on February 24, 2022. This is also the second visit by the Russian president in this duration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, when Xi Jinping clinched an unprecedented third term as Chinese&nbsp;president during a parliamentary session in March last year, where he consolidated his authority, he reciprocated by travelling to Moscow.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the agenda of Putin's visit to China&nbsp;includes the signing of numerous bilateral agreements, with both leaders anticipated to commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations at a "gala event."</p>

<p>According to the Kremlin, the discussions between Putin and Xi will encompass a comprehensive review of their strategic partnership, charting new avenues for collaboration while exchanging views on pressing global and regional concerns.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


Chinese President Xi Jinping, in talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who landed in Beijing on Thursday (May 16) said the ties between both the countries are 'conducive to peace'.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, in talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who landed in Beijing on Thursday (May 16) said the ties between both the countries are 'conducive to peace'. Putin echoed similar thoughts and said that the ties between the two nations are 'stabilising' for world," reported AFP. This is Putins first overseas visit since his re-election in March and solidifying his grip on power in the country. He secured a landslide victory in the eighth presidential election held in Russia and commenced his fifth term in office. Putin is on a two-day state visit to China, as confirmed by Russian state media. Arriving in the Chinese capital of Beijing, Putin received a warm welcome from Chinese officials and a guard of honour. Ahead of his visit, Putin while responding to China's Xinhua news agency over how he assesses cooperation between China and Russia within BRICS, the SCO and other multilateral mechanisms, slammed US. In his remarks, Putin said, "The countries that affiliate themselves with the so‑called ”golden billion“ do not seem to think so. US‑led Western elites refuse to respect civilizational and cultural diversity and reject centuries-old traditional values." "Seeking to retain their global dominance, they have usurped the right to tell other nations whom they may, or must not, make friends and cooperate with, and to deny them the right to choose their own development models. They disregard other countries' sovereign interests. They seek to ensure their well‑being at the expense of other states, just like in the old days, and resort to neo-colonial methods to that end." Putin added, "needless to say, neither Russia nor its partners are happy with this state of affairs. We have actively contributed to launching multilateral associations and mechanisms that are independent of the West and are successfully operating. In their work they build on the principles of equality, justice, transparency, respect and consideration of each other's interests." Russia picks China as first overseas country for visit post-elections Picking China as the first overseas country for his visit post-elections holds symbolic importance as it underscores the deepening ties between Russia and China amid escalating tensions with Western powers and the dragged-on war with Ukraine, where Moscow has made some significant advances in recent days. Also Read | French police hunt killers in prison van ambush Putin's arrival coincided with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's decision to suspend all forthcoming international visits as his forces confront Russian incursions in northeastern Kharkiv, a city that witnessed evacuation of thousands of people amid Moscow's ground assault. Against this backdrop, discussions between Xi and Putin are expected to address the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Also Read | Western allies denounce Georgia 'foreign influence' law Both the leaders are also expected to hold dialogue on bolstering their nation's economic collaborations, as well as energy and security ties. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia unleashes new attacks on Ukraine's Kherson × Putin's visit is the fourth face-to-face meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping since the Ukraine invasion broke out on February 24, 2022. This is also the second visit by the Russian president in this duration. Earlier, when Xi Jinping clinched an unprecedented third term as Chinese president during a parliamentary session in March last year, where he consolidated his authority, he reciprocated by travelling to Moscow. Meanwhile, the agenda of Putin's visit to China includes the signing of numerous bilateral agreements, with both leaders anticipated to commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations at a "gala event." According to the Kremlin, the discussions between Putin and Xi will encompass a comprehensive review of their strategic partnership, charting new avenues for collaboration while exchanging views on pressing global and regional concerns. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-China ties 'conducive to peace': Xi tells Putin

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky cancelled his visit to Madrid scheduled for Friday (May 17), the Spanish media reported on Wednesday (May 15).</p>

<p>The Spanish royal palace updated the royal agenda on Wednesday, removing a Friday meeting between Spain's King Felipe VI and Zelensky.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Spanish media said the Ukrainian leader cancelled his visit after Russia launched a fresh offensive on northeastern Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-flags-washingtons-biggest-problem-to-blinken-as-russians-advance-in-kharkiv-721500">Zelensky flags 'biggest problem' to Blinken as Russians advance in Kharkiv</a></p>

<p>Notably, Ukraine has pulled back its troops near several villages in the eastern Kharkiv region, where Russian forces have been advancing.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian military announced on Tuesday night, "To protect our troops and minimise casualties, Ukrainian units near Lukyantsi and Vovchansk carried out a strategic manoeuvre to more defensible positions in response to enemy fire and ground assaults."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine's General Staff said the situation remains quite difficult&nbsp;but insisted that its forces were not allowing the Russians&nbsp;to gain a foothold.</p>

<p>"Donetsk and Kharkiv regions are where it is most difficult now," Zelensky said in an address on Tuesday evening.</p>

<p><strong>Video: Russia sharpens attacks on Ukraine's Kharkiv</strong></p>

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<p>Additionally, Ukrainian energy operator DTEK announced that it had lifted electricity consumption restrictions in several regions of the country that were placed in the wake of Russian strikes on Ukrainian energy facilities.</p>

<p>"Emergency shutdowns in Kyiv, the Kyiv region, the Odesa region, the Donetsk region and the Dnipropetrovsk region were lifted," DTEK said.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia&nbsp;advances in Kharkiv</strong></h2>

<p>Russian offensive in Ukraine's northeast, in the Kharkiv region has forced thousands to flee their homes. On Tuesday (May 14), it hit the centre of Kharkiv with airstrikes. Kharkiv is Ukraine's second biggest city after Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-secretary-of-state-blinken-makes-sudden-visit-to-ukraine-to-show-solidarity-721229">US Secretary of State Blinken assures Zelensky military aid 'now on its way'</a></strong></p>

<p>Around 20 people were injured, including three children. One of the sites hit with airstrikes was a 20-storey building in the city centre, emergency services said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky cancelled his visit to Madrid scheduled for Friday (May 17), the Spanish media reported on Wednesday (May 15). The Spanish royal palace updated the royal agenda on Wednesday, removing a Friday meeting between Spain's King Felipe VI and Zelensky.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky cancelled his visit to Madrid scheduled for Friday (May 17), the Spanish media reported on Wednesday (May 15). The Spanish royal palace updated the royal agenda on Wednesday, removing a Friday meeting between Spain's King Felipe VI and Zelensky. The Spanish media said the Ukrainian leader cancelled his visit after Russia launched a fresh offensive on northeastern Ukraine. Also read: Zelensky flags 'biggest problem' to Blinken as Russians advance in Kharkiv Notably, Ukraine has pulled back its troops near several villages in the eastern Kharkiv region, where Russian forces have been advancing. The Ukrainian military announced on Tuesday night, "To protect our troops and minimise casualties, Ukrainian units near Lukyantsi and Vovchansk carried out a strategic manoeuvre to more defensible positions in response to enemy fire and ground assaults." Ukraine's General Staff said the situation remains quite difficult but insisted that its forces were not allowing the Russians to gain a foothold. "Donetsk and Kharkiv regions are where it is most difficult now," Zelensky said in an address on Tuesday evening. Video: Russia sharpens attacks on Ukraine's Kharkiv × Additionally, Ukrainian energy operator DTEK announced that it had lifted electricity consumption restrictions in several regions of the country that were placed in the wake of Russian strikes on Ukrainian energy facilities. "Emergency shutdowns in Kyiv, the Kyiv region, the Odesa region, the Donetsk region and the Dnipropetrovsk region were lifted," DTEK said. Russia advances in Kharkiv Russian offensive in Ukraine's northeast, in the Kharkiv region has forced thousands to flee their homes. On Tuesday (May 14), it hit the centre of Kharkiv with airstrikes. Kharkiv is Ukraine's second biggest city after Kyiv. Also read | US Secretary of State Blinken assures Zelensky military aid 'now on its way' Around 20 people were injured, including three children. One of the sites hit with airstrikes was a 20-storey building in the city centre, emergency services said. (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky cancels Friday visit to Spain amid fresh Russian offensive in Kharkiv

Russian President Vladimir Putin is all set to arrive in China. The visit will mark the start of Putin's new presidential term. Watch this video to know all about the significance of Putin's visit and meeting with Xi Jinping in Beijing.

Russia's Putin to meet Xi Jinping in Beijing. What's on the agenda?

Russian President Vladimir Putin will make a 2-day state visit to China this week on 16-17 May. This will be Putin's second visit to Beijing in seven months. This visit comes before he resumes office in his fifth-term as President of Russia.

Putin to visit China: Putin & Jinping to discuss international regional issues

Russia: Putin to sign a joint statement after their meeting, to discuss comprehensive partnership

Putin to visit China: Russia-China to identify key areas for practical cooperation

Putin-Xi to discuss comprehensive partnership | Putin's second visit to Beijing in 7 months

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Truce talks at 'almost a stalemate': Qatar - Indian UN officer killed in Gaza - Ukraine drones strike Russia rail line - US aids on its way: Blinken to Zelensky - US flip-flop over Chabahar port - Putin to visit China on May 16

Truce talks at 'almost a stalemate': Qatar | Indian UN officer killed in Gaza

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin will embark on a two-day visit to China this week at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Beijing's foreign ministry said Tuesday (May 14).</p>

<p>The Russian president will be in Beijing from Thursday to Friday (May 16-17), foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said.</p>

<p>This is the Russian leader's second visit to China in just over six months.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-secretary-of-state-blinken-makes-sudden-visit-to-ukraine-to-show-solidarity-721229">US Secretary of State Blinken&nbsp;makes sudden visit to Ukraine to show solidarity</a></p>

<p>According to analysts, Russia is dependent on China as a crucial economic lifeline since the West hit it with unprecedented sanctions.</p>

<p>Despite Western criticism of its close ties with Moscow, China continues to champion its no-limits partnership.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This alliance benefits China with discounted Russian energy imports and access to abundant natural resources, including a steady flow of gas through the Power of Siberia pipeline.</p>

<p>However, this economic cooperation is facing challenges. Under Western scrutiny, Chinese banks are growing wary of potential US sanctions that could restrict their access to the global financial system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As a result, they have started&nbsp;tightening restrictions on doing business with Russian companies.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-intensifies-ground-assault-into-ukraines-kharkiv-region-achieving-tactical-success-721031">Russia intensifies ground assault in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region, achieves ‘tactical success’</a></p>

<p>The trade between China and Russia has boomed since the Ukraine invasion, which Beijing has never condemned and hit $240 billion in 2023, according to Chinese customs figures.</p>

<p>Following US threats of sanctions against institutions aiding Moscow, Chinese exports to Russia dipped in March and April, reversing the earlier surge witnessed at the beginning of the year.</p>

<p>This decline coincides with mounting pressure on Beijing to sever economic ties with Russia. The potential consequences of failing to do so could be particularly damaging to China's already strained economy.</p>

<p>"Chinese banks are worried about reputational costs as they seek to avert major sanctions," Elizabeth Wishnick, a Senior Research Scientist at CNA, told AFP.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russian forces attack border of Ukraine's Northern Kharkiv region</strong></p>

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<p>Putin's trip to Beijing echoes Xi's own to Russia after his anointment as leader last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin will embark on a two-day visit to China this week at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Beijing's foreign ministry said Tuesday (May 14).

Russian President Vladimir Putin will embark on a two-day visit to China this week at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Beijing's foreign ministry said Tuesday (May 14). The Russian president will be in Beijing from Thursday to Friday (May 16-17), foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said. This is the Russian leader's second visit to China in just over six months. Also read: US Secretary of State Blinken makes sudden visit to Ukraine to show solidarity According to analysts, Russia is dependent on China as a crucial economic lifeline since the West hit it with unprecedented sanctions. Despite Western criticism of its close ties with Moscow, China continues to champion its no-limits partnership. This alliance benefits China with discounted Russian energy imports and access to abundant natural resources, including a steady flow of gas through the Power of Siberia pipeline. However, this economic cooperation is facing challenges. Under Western scrutiny, Chinese banks are growing wary of potential US sanctions that could restrict their access to the global financial system. As a result, they have started tightening restrictions on doing business with Russian companies. Also Read: Russia intensifies ground assault in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region, achieves ‘tactical success’ The trade between China and Russia has boomed since the Ukraine invasion, which Beijing has never condemned and hit $240 billion in 2023, according to Chinese customs figures. Following US threats of sanctions against institutions aiding Moscow, Chinese exports to Russia dipped in March and April, reversing the earlier surge witnessed at the beginning of the year. This decline coincides with mounting pressure on Beijing to sever economic ties with Russia. The potential consequences of failing to do so could be particularly damaging to China's already strained economy. "Chinese banks are worried about reputational costs as they seek to avert major sanctions," Elizabeth Wishnick, a Senior Research Scientist at CNA, told AFP. Watch: Russian forces attack border of Ukraine's Northern Kharkiv region × Putin's trip to Beijing echoes Xi's own to Russia after his anointment as leader last year. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin to visit China this week

<p>Germany, as per reports, is considering the reintroduction of conscription for all 18-year-olds amidst escalating tensions with Russia.</p>

<p>According to a report by The Sunday Telegraph, this move is driven by concerns over a potential full-scale NATO conflict with Russia.</p>

<h2><strong>What's the plan?</strong></h2>

<p>The report states that three potential plans are under the final stage of discussion, and Defence Minister Boris Pistorius is expected to announce formal plans next month. Two of these plans reportedly include compulsory one year conscription for all men at the age of 18.</p>

<p>One approach would require both men and women, upon turning 18, to serve, expanding the conscription that previously applied only to men. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-replaces-russias-defence-minister-sergei-shoigu-with-former-deputy-pm-andrei-belousov-720696">Sergey Shoigu sacked as Russian Defence Minister as Putin begins fifth term</a></strong></p>

<p>Including women in mandatory conscription would require a constitutional amendment, yet, as per Daily Mail, military insiders suggest that such a change would "most likely to receive societal approval".</p>

<p>Another strategy focusing&nbsp;solely on 18-year-old men&nbsp;will reportedly&nbsp;include a selection process where individuals would complete an online form and could subsequently be chosen for service.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The third option, as per the report, would forego conscription entirely, instead focusing on "optimising" the existing military framework through intensified, proactive recruitment efforts.</p>

<p>However, during a recent visit to Washington, Pistorius expressed his 'conviction' that Germany "needs a form of military conscription".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-critic-alexei-navalny-awarded-dresden-peace-prize-posthumously-720645">Putin critic Alexei Navalny awarded Dresden Peace Prize&nbsp;posthumously&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>Germany had suspended compulsory military conscription in 2011, a decision which Pistorius has previously described as a "mistake".</p>

<h2><strong>Why compulsory military service?</strong></h2>

<p>These discussions, as per Daily Mail, are set against a backdrop of heightened global tension following Russian President Vladimir Putin's declaration that his nuclear forces are at full readiness.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an unsettling speech, on Thursday (May 9) Putin hailed the valour of Russian troops in Ukraine and accused the "collective West" of "fuelling regional conflicts, inter-ethnic and inter-religious strife and trying to contain sovereign and independent centres of global development". He also issued a warning that the Kremlin intends to avoid global conflict, but was ready to face any threat to Russia's security.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Germany, as per reports, is considering the reintroduction of conscription for all 18-year-olds amidst escalating tensions with Russia. According to a report by The Sunday Telegraph, this move is driven by concerns over a potential full-scale NATO conflict with Russia.

Germany, as per reports, is considering the reintroduction of conscription for all 18-year-olds amidst escalating tensions with Russia. According to a report by The Sunday Telegraph, this move is driven by concerns over a potential full-scale NATO conflict with Russia. What's the plan? The report states that three potential plans are under the final stage of discussion, and Defence Minister Boris Pistorius is expected to announce formal plans next month. Two of these plans reportedly include compulsory one year conscription for all men at the age of 18. One approach would require both men and women, upon turning 18, to serve, expanding the conscription that previously applied only to men. Also read | Sergey Shoigu sacked as Russian Defence Minister as Putin begins fifth term Including women in mandatory conscription would require a constitutional amendment, yet, as per Daily Mail, military insiders suggest that such a change would "most likely to receive societal approval". Another strategy focusing solely on 18-year-old men will reportedly include a selection process where individuals would complete an online form and could subsequently be chosen for service. The third option, as per the report, would forego conscription entirely, instead focusing on "optimising" the existing military framework through intensified, proactive recruitment efforts. However, during a recent visit to Washington, Pistorius expressed his 'conviction' that Germany "needs a form of military conscription". Also read | Putin critic Alexei Navalny awarded Dresden Peace Prize posthumously Germany had suspended compulsory military conscription in 2011, a decision which Pistorius has previously described as a "mistake". Why compulsory military service? These discussions, as per Daily Mail, are set against a backdrop of heightened global tension following Russian President Vladimir Putin's declaration that his nuclear forces are at full readiness. In an unsettling speech, on Thursday (May 9) Putin hailed the valour of Russian troops in Ukraine and accused the "collective West" of "fuelling regional conflicts, inter-ethnic and inter-religious strife and trying to contain sovereign and independent centres of global development". He also issued a warning that the Kremlin intends to avoid global conflict, but was ready to face any threat to Russia's security. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany ponders mandatory military service for 18-year-olds amid looming Russia nuclear threat

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