Ukrainian military on Friday announced that it was reinforcing the embattled eastern city of Avdiivka, which is also known as the country's industrial hub.

"According to the decision made, the scheduled reinforcement of units is underway and troops are manoeuvring on threatened axes," Ukraine's army said on social media.

"The Ukrainian defenders continue to hold back the enemy who keeps trying to encircle Avdiivka... the Ukrainian soldiers are standing their ground," it added.&nbsp;

Ukraine&nbsp;earlier today said that its armed forces were further equipping new defensive positions around the embattled eastern city, hinting at a possible drawdown of forces as Russia steps up its offensive.

The move comes a day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky released a statement saying that he would do "everything" to safeguard the lives in the city that has been encircled by the Russian forces on all three sides.

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"Fierce battles are taking place within the city," Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, a Ukrainian general in the east, said on social media.

"Our troops are using all available forces and means to restrain the enemy," he added.

"New positions have been prepared and powerful fortifications continue to be prepared, taking into account all possible scenarios," said Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, a senior Ukrainian commander responsible for forces in the east of the country.&nbsp;

He said that Kyiv wanted to safeguard its troops, "We value every piece of Ukrainian land, but the highest value and priority for us is the preservation of the life of a Ukrainian soldier."&nbsp;

Tarnavskiy said that the situation in Avdiivka was "difficult but controlled", further stating that the commanders were tasked to "stabilise the situation".

Russia has been attempting to seize Avdiivka for months now.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian military on Friday announced that it was reinforcing the embattled eastern city of Avdiivka, which is also known as the country's industrial hub. "According to the decision made, the scheduled reinforcement of units is underway and troops are manoeuvring on threatened axes," Ukraine's army said on social media.

Ukrainian military on Friday announced that it was reinforcing the embattled eastern city of Avdiivka, which is also known as the country's industrial hub. "According to the decision made, the scheduled reinforcement of units is underway and troops are manoeuvring on threatened axes," Ukraine's army said on social media. "The Ukrainian defenders continue to hold back the enemy who keeps trying to encircle Avdiivka... the Ukrainian soldiers are standing their ground," it added. Ukraine earlier today said that its armed forces were further equipping new defensive positions around the embattled eastern city, hinting at a possible drawdown of forces as Russia steps up its offensive. The move comes a day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky released a statement saying that he would do "everything" to safeguard the lives in the city that has been encircled by the Russian forces on all three sides. Also read: Ex-FBI informant faces allegations of lying about business dealings of President Joe Biden, Hunter Biden "Fierce battles are taking place within the city," Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, a Ukrainian general in the east, said on social media. "Our troops are using all available forces and means to restrain the enemy," he added. "New positions have been prepared and powerful fortifications continue to be prepared, taking into account all possible scenarios," said Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, a senior Ukrainian commander responsible for forces in the east of the country. He said that Kyiv wanted to safeguard its troops, "We value every piece of Ukrainian land, but the highest value and priority for us is the preservation of the life of a Ukrainian soldier." Tarnavskiy said that the situation in Avdiivka was "difficult but controlled", further stating that the commanders were tasked to "stabilise the situation". Russia has been attempting to seize Avdiivka for months now. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine says reinforcing troops in embattled eastern town of Avdiivka as Russia steps up attacks

Russian leader Vladimir Putin said Wednesday that he prefers President Joe Biden to win the US 2024 election over former President Donald Trump, describing him as more experienced and predictable.

Russian President Putin says he prefers Joe Biden over Donald Trump in the White House

US White House's Intelligence Committee chairman has warned of a "national security threat" related to Russian nuclear capabilities, according to an ABC News report. The intelligence report says that Russia wants to put a nuclear weapon into space that would be possibly used against the satellites.

Russia wanting nuclear weapon in space?

The EU is proposing to sanction companies in mainland China for the first time as part of its latest measures aimed at shutting down loopholes that allow Russia to route military technology via third countries to its weapons factories.

EU proposes sanctions on Chinese firms aiding Russian war effort

A preliminary analysis concluded that Russia hit Kyiv last week with the hypersonic Zircon missile. The head of a Kyiv research institute said Russia used Zircon for the first time in the ongoing war. These missiles are presenting a new challenge to Ukraine's air defences. Watch this video for all details.

All about Russia's lethal Zircon hypersonic missile used for the first time in the Ukraine war

Tucker Carlson's interview with Vladimir Putin is out. The Russian president sat down with the news anchor for several hours. It began as a history lesson. Then there was some ranting, some joking and some snarling. But mostly, Putin had an open stage to take jabs at the US.

Gravitas | Putin asks US: Don't you have anything better to do? | Tucker Carlson interview

Chinese President Xi Jinping exchanged Lunar New Year greetings with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in a telephone call on Thursday, with the two leaders vowing to deepen their close relationship.

China's Xi Jinping and Russia's Vladimir Putin vow deeper ties in phone call

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy replaced Ukraine's popular army chief with his ground forces commander on Thursday.

Ukrainian replaces army chief, biggest military shakeup since the war began

In an interview with the American talk show host Tucker Carlson Russian President Vladimir Putin said the West should understand it is impossible to defeat Russia in Ukraine. Watch to know more.

Putin slams the west in a rare US interview

Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke in an interview published on Friday about war and peace in Ukraine, the risks of advances in genetics and artificial intelligence and fears of a world war. Watch this video for all details.

What did Putin say on war and peace, World War 3 and AI?

Netanyahu has rejected Hamas' proposal for a truce. Top U.S. diplomat Blinken says there is hope for more negotiations. Amid all this Russian President Putin has said that Moscow is in talks with Hamas to release hostages. Will Putin broker a peace deal in Gaza?

Gravitas | Will Putin emerge as the winner in Gaza war?

Ukraine claimed it used sea drones to sink a small Russian warship in the Black Sea as Russian investigators alleged that a Russian military transport plane that crashed last month was brought down by two US-made Patriot missiles fired by Kyiv’s forces.

Ukraine claims its sea drones sank a Russian warship

Russian forces have intensified its offensive in the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka. According to Ukrainian officials, some parts of Avdiivka are in critical condition as the Ukrainian forces are fighting Russian shelling and incursions. Is it just a matter of time before Avdiivka falls to Russia? What does Russia stand to gain from this strategic advancement in Ukraine?

Russia-Ukraine war: Will Avdiivka fall to Russia? What will Russia gain?

President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine said that a broad overhaul of the country’s military and civilian leadership was needed to reboot the war effort against Russia, suggesting that a major shake-up of his government was imminent.

Ukraine’s president confirms plans for military shake-up

Turkish Foreign Affairs Minister Hakan Fidan officially confirmed an imminent visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (Feb 5), without disclosing the exact date of the meeting.

"This&nbsp;visit&nbsp;will provide us the opportunity to discuss numerous issues," the minister told state television station TRT Haber.&nbsp;

Minister Fidan expressed hope that the visit would provide an opportunity for discussions on various pressing issues, hinting at the diplomatic agenda both nations intend to address during Putin's visit, as reported by AFP.

While local media speculated February 12 as a possible date for the meeting, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's office has yet to confirm the exact schedule.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-abhay-thakur-indias-new-ambassador-to-russia-686746">Also read |&nbsp;Who is Abhay Thakur, India's new ambassador to Russia</a>

<h2>Unique position: First NATO member visit since 2022</h2>

If realised, this visit would mark an historic event as Turkey would become the first NATO member to host Putin since the commencement of his invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Despite geopolitical tensions, Turkey, under Erdogan's leadership, has successfully maintained trade and political relations with both Ukraine and Russia, allowing the latter to evade Western sanctions while continuing arms sales to Ukraine.

<h2>What would be the key discussion points?</h2>

Minister Fidan outlined the primary topics on the agenda, emphasising discussions on energy cooperation, the ongoing war in Gaza, Black Sea trade routes, and the complex situation in Syria.

Turkey and Russia find themselves on opposing sides in the Syrian conflict, particularly concerning the presence of PKK Kurdish forces in the northeast region. The countries previously reached an accord in 2019, but tensions persist as Turkey accuses Russia of non-compliance.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas | Putin's black sea fleet warship sunk by Kyiv

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<h2>Last meeting and ongoing relations</h2>

The most recent face-to-face meeting between Putin and Erdogan occurred in September 2023 in Sochi. Despite infrequent in-person meetings, the leaders maintain regular communication through phone conversations.

Past disputes, notably regarding the Syrian buffer zone and accusations of non-compliance, add layers of complexity to the diplomatic relations between Ankara and Moscow.

(With inputs from agencies)

Turkish Foreign Affairs Minister Hakan Fidan officially confirmed an imminent visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (Feb 5), without disclosing the exact date of the meeting.

Turkish Foreign Affairs Minister Hakan Fidan officially confirmed an imminent visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (Feb 5), without disclosing the exact date of the meeting. "This visit will provide us the opportunity to discuss numerous issues," the minister told state television station TRT Haber. Minister Fidan expressed hope that the visit would provide an opportunity for discussions on various pressing issues, hinting at the diplomatic agenda both nations intend to address during Putin's visit, as reported by AFP. While local media speculated February 12 as a possible date for the meeting, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's office has yet to confirm the exact schedule. Also read | Who is Abhay Thakur, India's new ambassador to Russia Unique position: First NATO member visit since 2022 If realised, this visit would mark an historic event as Turkey would become the first NATO member to host Putin since the commencement of his invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Despite geopolitical tensions, Turkey, under Erdogan's leadership, has successfully maintained trade and political relations with both Ukraine and Russia, allowing the latter to evade Western sanctions while continuing arms sales to Ukraine. What would be the key discussion points? Minister Fidan outlined the primary topics on the agenda, emphasising discussions on energy cooperation, the ongoing war in Gaza, Black Sea trade routes, and the complex situation in Syria. Turkey and Russia find themselves on opposing sides in the Syrian conflict, particularly concerning the presence of PKK Kurdish forces in the northeast region. The countries previously reached an accord in 2019, but tensions persist as Turkey accuses Russia of non-compliance. Also watch | Gravitas | Putin's black sea fleet warship sunk by Kyiv Last meeting and ongoing relations The most recent face-to-face meeting between Putin and Erdogan occurred in September 2023 in Sochi. Despite infrequent in-person meetings, the leaders maintain regular communication through phone conversations. Past disputes, notably regarding the Syrian buffer zone and accusations of non-compliance, add layers of complexity to the diplomatic relations between Ankara and Moscow. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey confirms Putin's visit, marking his first to a NATO member since 2022 Ukraine invasion

Russia has created more than half a million new jobs in its defence sector to meet soaring demand on the battlefield, President Vladimir Putin said on Friday (Feb 2).

The Kremlin has thrown massive resources at its full-scale assault on Ukraine, with the defence sector accounting for much of the sanction-hit economy's growth.

"In the last year and a half alone, 520,000 new jobs have been created in defence," Putin told a political forum with defence workers in the western city of Tula.

"In order to be successful on the battlefield today, it is necessary to react quickly and adequately to what is happening there," Putin said.

"So whoever does it all faster, wins," he said.

After months of combat that has failed to yield major territorial gains for either Russia or Ukraine, Moscow is throwing more manpower into the conflict and ramping up arms production.

Last year, it unveiled plans for a massive 68-per cent hike in spending on the military -- more than outlays for education, environmental protection and healthcare spending combined.

The spending increase has fuelled demand in Russia's economy, drawing workers away from labour-starved civilian industries and pushing up inflation.

Unemployment has fallen to a record low and several non-defence sectors have reported a chronic shortage of workers since Russia launched its military campaign against Ukraine almost two years ago.

&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Russia has created more than half a million new jobs in its defence sector to meet soaring demand on the battlefield, President Vladimir Putin said on Friday (Feb 2).

Russia has created more than half a million new jobs in its defence sector to meet soaring demand on the battlefield, President Vladimir Putin said on Friday (Feb 2). The Kremlin has thrown massive resources at its full-scale assault on Ukraine, with the defence sector accounting for much of the sanction-hit economy's growth. "In the last year and a half alone, 520,000 new jobs have been created in defence," Putin told a political forum with defence workers in the western city of Tula. "In order to be successful on the battlefield today, it is necessary to react quickly and adequately to what is happening there," Putin said. "So whoever does it all faster, wins," he said. After months of combat that has failed to yield major territorial gains for either Russia or Ukraine, Moscow is throwing more manpower into the conflict and ramping up arms production. Last year, it unveiled plans for a massive 68-per cent hike in spending on the military -- more than outlays for education, environmental protection and healthcare spending combined. The spending increase has fuelled demand in Russia's economy, drawing workers away from labour-starved civilian industries and pushing up inflation. Unemployment has fallen to a record low and several non-defence sectors have reported a chronic shortage of workers since Russia launched its military campaign against Ukraine almost two years ago.

Russia creates 500K defense jobs amid rising battlefield demand, sending other sectors into a tailspin

Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit NATO member Turkey to meet President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on February 12. Putin’s visit will be his first to a NATO member since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Russian President Putin to visit NATO member Turkey on Feb 12

Some Russians are fighting against Russian President Putin alongside the Ukrainian army. Why are they doing that? What do they want?

Gravitas | Who are the Russians fighting against Putin?

Russian President Vladimir Putin is believed to own a highly guarded residence near Russia's border with Finland. Reports suggest that the complex has "three modern-style houses, two helicopter pads, as well as a personal waterfall."

'Secret Putin home' discovered near Finland

Kremlin challenger Boris Nadezhdin has claimed to have collected enough signatures to stand as a candidate in Russia's upcoming presidential election. The former local councillor, known for his outspoken criticism of Putin and Russia's invasion of Ukraine, stated that he submitted more than the required 100,000 signatures to the electoral authorities. The electoral commission must now review his application.

Nadezhdin&nbsp;positions himself as Russia's unexpected anti-war candidate against Vladimir Putin in the upcoming election. The bespectacled former bureaucrat, now an academic, is endorsed by notable figures like Alexei Navalny's wife and exiled oligarch Mikhail Khodorkovsky.

Nadezhdin, representing the Civic Initiative Party, aims to alter Russia's trajectory. Despite acknowledging he may not secure the presidency, his focus lies on achieving the best possible outcome. His primary objectives include halting the conflict with Ukraine, ending the military mobilization of Russian men, and fostering dialogue with the West. He also condemns Russia's repression of LGBTQ+ activism.

Putin, running independently, has already collected over 3 million signatures.

Also watch |&nbsp;'Secret Putin home' discovered near Finland

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<h2>Surprising popular support</h2>

Nadezhdin's unexpected surge in popularity has drawn supporters nationwide, with videos showing&nbsp;queues in various cities, including Moscow, St. Petersburg, and even the Far East city of Yakutsk. Some speculate the Kremlin's surprise at Nadezhdin's momentum, though Putin's spokesperson downplays him as a non-rival.

Analysts debate whether Nadezhdin is a Kremlin-backed project aimed at lending false legitimacy to the election. His past association with figures like Sergei Kiriyenko and Boris Nemstov raises suspicions, although his current safety suggests he might not be perceived as a genuine threat.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finland-elections-finns-head-to-polls-in-tight-presidential-race-amid-russia-tensions-684565">Also read |&nbsp;Finland elections: Finns head to polls in tight presidential race, amid Russia tensions</a>

The Kremlin's swift response to opposition figures following the election announcement is evident. Alexei Navalny's disappearance for three weeks, ending in a penal colony, and the extended pretrial detention of Igor Girkin, a pro-war challenger, highlight the lengths taken to suppress dissent ahead of the March 17 election.

In a CNN interview, Nadezhdin expressed&nbsp;bewilderment at avoiding arrest, raising questions about the Kremlin's intentions. Despite uncertainties, his candidacy adds an unexpected dynamic to Russia's political landscape, as the nation prepares for a crucial presidential election.

(With inputs from agencies)

Kremlin challenger Boris Nadezhdin has claimed to have collected enough signatures to stand as a candidate in Russia's upcoming presidential election. The former local councillor, known for his outspoken criticism of Putin and Russia's invasion of Ukraine, stated that he submitted more than the required 100,000 signatures to the electoral authorities.

Kremlin challenger Boris Nadezhdin has claimed to have collected enough signatures to stand as a candidate in Russia's upcoming presidential election. The former local councillor, known for his outspoken criticism of Putin and Russia's invasion of Ukraine, stated that he submitted more than the required 100,000 signatures to the electoral authorities. The electoral commission must now review his application. Nadezhdin positions himself as Russia's unexpected anti-war candidate against Vladimir Putin in the upcoming election. The bespectacled former bureaucrat, now an academic, is endorsed by notable figures like Alexei Navalny's wife and exiled oligarch Mikhail Khodorkovsky. Nadezhdin, representing the Civic Initiative Party, aims to alter Russia's trajectory. Despite acknowledging he may not secure the presidency, his focus lies on achieving the best possible outcome. His primary objectives include halting the conflict with Ukraine, ending the military mobilization of Russian men, and fostering dialogue with the West. He also condemns Russia's repression of LGBTQ+ activism. Putin, running independently, has already collected over 3 million signatures. Also watch | 'Secret Putin home' discovered near Finland Surprising popular support Nadezhdin's unexpected surge in popularity has drawn supporters nationwide, with videos showing queues in various cities, including Moscow, St. Petersburg, and even the Far East city of Yakutsk. Some speculate the Kremlin's surprise at Nadezhdin's momentum, though Putin's spokesperson downplays him as a non-rival. Analysts debate whether Nadezhdin is a Kremlin-backed project aimed at lending false legitimacy to the election. His past association with figures like Sergei Kiriyenko and Boris Nemstov raises suspicions, although his current safety suggests he might not be perceived as a genuine threat. Also read | Finland elections: Finns head to polls in tight presidential race, amid Russia tensions The Kremlin's swift response to opposition figures following the election announcement is evident. Alexei Navalny's disappearance for three weeks, ending in a penal colony, and the extended pretrial detention of Igor Girkin, a pro-war challenger, highlight the lengths taken to suppress dissent ahead of the March 17 election. In a CNN interview, Nadezhdin expressed bewilderment at avoiding arrest, raising questions about the Kremlin's intentions. Despite uncertainties, his candidacy adds an unexpected dynamic to Russia's political landscape, as the nation prepares for a crucial presidential election. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Putin challenger Boris Nadezhdin, who has submitted presidential bid in Russia?

CIA Director William Burns said Tuesday that Ukraine faces a test of staying power against Russia and that if the U.S. cut off support for Kyiv it would be a mistake of “historic proportions.”

CIA Chief warns against stopping Ukraine aid

The European Union are meeting again to finalise a $50 billion aid package for Ukraine. But Hungary is apprehensive, having vetoed the move once. Will it block the aid again?

European Union to grant more financial aid to Ukraine?

Sixty-year-old Boris Nadezhdin is emerging as a key competitor to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Can the leader's anti-war stance gather enough support?

Who is Vladimir Putin's competition ahead of elections?

The Russian city of St. Petersburg on Saturday marked the 80th anniversary of the end of a devastating World War II siege by Nazi forces with a series of memorial events attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin and close allies.

Russia President Vladimir Putin honours Leningrad's heroes

As per claims made by Moscow, the plane was flying to the region before the prisoner swap which was to take place on Wednesday (Jan 24) when it was hit by anti-aircraft missiles. It said there were 65 Ukrainian prisoners of war present inside the aircraft. Watch to know more!

Russian plane crash: Kyiv shot down plane, unsure if its deliberate or by accident, says Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin has lauded India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for pursuing an independent foreign policy, which is “not easy in today’s world”, and managing one of the highest rates of economic development.

Putin lauds India's independent Foreign Policy

“In the past day, 82 combat engagements took place. Russian invaders carried out 2 missile attacks and 19 airstrikes, as well as 68 MLRS attacks on the positions of the Defense Forces of Ukraine and populated areas. As a result of Russian terrorist attacks, unfortunately, there are dead and wounded among the civilian population. Private residential buildings and other civilian infrastructure were destroyed and damaged,” the report says.

Ukraine maintains defensive front positions

Ukraine said Friday that Russia had returned the bodies of 77 soldiers, days after the downing of a Russian military plane threw doubt on the future of such exchanges.

Russia returns bodies of 77 Ukrainian soldiers

Russia-Ukraine war: Bodies of 77 Ukrainian soldiers repatriated to Kyiv

Ukraine may have risked exposing a precious Patriot launcher to take out 2 prized Russian planes, experts say.

Ukraine used patriot missile to down the plane?

Prominent Russian nationalist Igor Girkin was on Thursday (Jan 25) convicted by a Moscow court for inciting extremism and jailed for four years.

Girkin, who denied the charges, has strongly condemned President Vladimir Putin for not effectively pursuing the war against Ukraine.

He reportedly had also actively contributed towards instigating the conflict between Kremlin-backed separatists and Kyiv's armed forces in Ukraine's Donbas region in the year 2014.

Moscow City Court said Girkin was found guilty of "public calls to carry out extremist activities", further adding that the 53-year-old would serve his sentence of imprisonment in a general regime colony.

"I serve the Fatherland!" Girkin yelled out after the verdict was read out.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-daria-trepova-receives-27-year-prison-term-for-killing-pro-war-blogger-683584">Daria Trepova gets 27 jail years for killing pro-war blogger in bombing</a>

<h2>Arrests outside Moscow court</h2>

As per news agency AFP, police had captured three people, with one of them chanting "Freedom for Girkin!" while others held posters with nationalist slogans.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia: Putin's opponent Nadezhdin backs ending Ukraine war | Race to Power

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Calling the accusations against Girkin "absurd", his wife rebuffed the allegations.

"The accusation is absolutely absurd," Girkin's wife Miroslava Reginskaya said.

"My husband is a hero of the Russian Spring," she added, referring to the 2014 pro-Russian unrest in Ukraine.

His lawyer, Alexander Molokhov, called the sentence "an ugly judicial act", and&nbsp;said he would&nbsp;appeal against the verdict soon.

Girkin was arrested in 2023 over the charges of "extremism" after months of public attacks on Russian troops.

He had also denounced Russian President Vladimir Putin for not pushing an offensive aggressive enough against Ukraine.

Dubbing Putin "an old idiot", he took to his social media handle and said that the "country will not survive another six years of this cowardly mediocrity in power", before being arrested.

Girkin's detention was considered a prominent example of how Russia was suppressing the nationalist critics.

During his pre-trial custody, he launched a campaign to challenge Putin in the next presidential election scheduled to be held in March.

While in jail, he gave an interview to the Russian media, where he said that the country had "entered a period of acute instability" and faced "imminent catastrophe".

(With inputs from agencies)

Prominent Russian nationalist Igor Girkin was on Thursday (Jan 25) convicted by a Moscow court for inciting extremism and jailed for four years. Girkin, who denied the charges, has strongly condemned President Vladimir Putin for not effectively pursuing the war against Ukraine.

Prominent Russian nationalist Igor Girkin was on Thursday (Jan 25) convicted by a Moscow court for inciting extremism and jailed for four years. Girkin, who denied the charges, has strongly condemned President Vladimir Putin for not effectively pursuing the war against Ukraine. He reportedly had also actively contributed towards instigating the conflict between Kremlin-backed separatists and Kyiv's armed forces in Ukraine's Donbas region in the year 2014. Moscow City Court said Girkin was found guilty of "public calls to carry out extremist activities", further adding that the 53-year-old would serve his sentence of imprisonment in a general regime colony. "I serve the Fatherland!" Girkin yelled out after the verdict was read out. Also read: Daria Trepova gets 27 jail years for killing pro-war blogger in bombing Arrests outside Moscow court As per news agency AFP, police had captured three people, with one of them chanting "Freedom for Girkin!" while others held posters with nationalist slogans. WATCH | Russia: Putin's opponent Nadezhdin backs ending Ukraine war | Race to Power × Calling the accusations against Girkin "absurd", his wife rebuffed the allegations. "The accusation is absolutely absurd," Girkin's wife Miroslava Reginskaya said. "My husband is a hero of the Russian Spring," she added, referring to the 2014 pro-Russian unrest in Ukraine. His lawyer, Alexander Molokhov, called the sentence "an ugly judicial act", and said he would appeal against the verdict soon. Girkin was arrested in 2023 over the charges of "extremism" after months of public attacks on Russian troops. He had also denounced Russian President Vladimir Putin for not pushing an offensive aggressive enough against Ukraine. Dubbing Putin "an old idiot", he took to his social media handle and said that the "country will not survive another six years of this cowardly mediocrity in power", before being arrested. Girkin's detention was considered a prominent example of how Russia was suppressing the nationalist critics. During his pre-trial custody, he launched a campaign to challenge Putin in the next presidential election scheduled to be held in March. While in jail, he gave an interview to the Russian media, where he said that the country had "entered a period of acute instability" and faced "imminent catastrophe". (With inputs from agencies)

Russia jails ultra-nationalist Putin critic Igor Girkin for four years over 'extremism' charges

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