Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia will be difficult and "very bloody", the US' highest-ranking military officer has said.

Ukraine, US: Counteroffensive creeps ahead, measured in blood

Ukraine counter-offensive will be long and bloody, says US Gen Mark Milley

Prime Minister Modi voiced his support for Putin's action to maintain Law and Order in the country's engagement through multilateral platforms that both countries are a part of like the Shanghai cooperation organization.

Indian PM Modi expresses support for Russia's response to Wagner mutiny

Is the Wagner group setting up a secret training base in Belarus? Satellite images show activities in a deserted military camp located 100km from Minsk. Reports say the Wagner group is still recruiting fighters. Is it planning a war from exile? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: Is Russia's Wagner group setting up a secret training base in Belarus?

Wagner Group is in dire straits. What once was the Russian military's backbone. Is today nowhere in sight. The aborted mutiny of Wagner group calls into question the fate of its extensive network. From military to commercial operations, this network was spread across Europe, the Middle East & Africa.

All about Wagner's global operations: War, oil and Gold

The 15th BRICS summit is going to be held in August in South Africa's Johannesburg which will include major emerging economies like Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa has been in the news for more than one reason. There has been speculation about additions of new members or changes in the venue. Even though the venue has been confirmed the biggest question lies whether Vladimir Putin who has just torched a mutiny back home will attend the summit?

BRICS summit to be held in Johannesburg: Will Vladimir Putin attend the 15th Summit?

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, voiced his support for the response by the Russian leadership to the Wagner mutiny in order to uphold law and order in the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"In connection with the events of June 24, Narendra Modi expressed understanding and support for the decisive actions of the Russian leadership to protect law and order, ensure stability in the country and the security of its citizens," read a Kremlin statement translated in English.&nbsp;

While discussing the situation in Ukraine, PM reiterated his call for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the ongoing conflict. They reviewed progress in bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-riots-600-people-arrested-200-cops-left-injured-as-violence-continues-on-third-night-610544">France riots: 600 people arrested, 200 cops left injured as violence continues on third night</a>

The leaders highlighted the significance of consistent implementation of major joint projects across various sectors, expressing satisfaction over the notable increase in trade between the two countries in 2022 and the first quarter of the current year, the Kremlin said.&nbsp;

<h2>Collaboration in multilateral forums</h2>

Special attention was given to the cooperation between India and Russia through multilateral platforms, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), where India currently holds the chairmanship, as well as the G20 and BRICS formats.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/europe/uk-environment-minister-zac-goldsmith-resigns-accuses-rishi-sunak-of-neglecting-climate-change-610540">UK environment minister Zac Goldsmith resigns, accuses Rishi Sunak of neglecting Climate Change</a>

Prime Minister Modi also provided an update on his recent visit to Washington and his international engagements.

<h2>Discussion on Ukraine conflict</h2>

The leaders addressed the situation concerning Ukraine, with President Putin evaluating the current state of affairs in the conflict zone and emphasising Kyiv's "categorical refusal" to take necessary political and diplomatic measures for conflict resolution.

<h2>Commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership</h2>

Kremlin said that the conversation was informative and constructive, with both leaders reaffirming their mutual commitment to enhancing the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between Russia and India.&nbsp;

Watch | French President spotted at singer Elton John's concert amid riots

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They agreed on the necessity of further engagements and exchanges to deepen bilateral ties.

The conversation between the leaders comes days after&nbsp;the Russian mercenary group Wagner initiated a revolt amidst escalating tensions between the Russian Ministry of Defense and Wagner's leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin.

Prigozhin started the rebellion as a response to an alleged attack by the ministry on his forces.

On June 24, in a televised address, Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned Wagner mercenaries for their actions and called it "treason".

Prigozhin's forces successfully seized control of Russia's Rostov-on-Don and the headquarters of the Southern Military District before advancing towards Moscow in an armoured column.

Following the intervention of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko,&nbsp;Prigozhin agreed to retreat and his forces began withdrawing from Rostov-on-Don late on June 24.

The Russian Federal Security Service initially had opened a case for armed rebellion against the Wagner chief but later closed it on June 27 and dropped the charges.

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, voiced his support for the response by the Russian leadership to the Wagner mutiny in order to uphold law and order in the country.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, voiced his support for the response by the Russian leadership to the Wagner mutiny in order to uphold law and order in the country. "In connection with the events of June 24, Narendra Modi expressed understanding and support for the decisive actions of the Russian leadership to protect law and order, ensure stability in the country and the security of its citizens," read a Kremlin statement translated in English. While discussing the situation in Ukraine, PM reiterated his call for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the ongoing conflict. They reviewed progress in bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest. Also Read | France riots: 600 people arrested, 200 cops left injured as violence continues on third night The leaders highlighted the significance of consistent implementation of major joint projects across various sectors, expressing satisfaction over the notable increase in trade between the two countries in 2022 and the first quarter of the current year, the Kremlin said. Collaboration in multilateral forums Special attention was given to the cooperation between India and Russia through multilateral platforms, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), where India currently holds the chairmanship, as well as the G20 and BRICS formats. Also Read | UK environment minister Zac Goldsmith resigns, accuses Rishi Sunak of neglecting Climate Change Prime Minister Modi also provided an update on his recent visit to Washington and his international engagements. Discussion on Ukraine conflict The leaders addressed the situation concerning Ukraine, with President Putin evaluating the current state of affairs in the conflict zone and emphasising Kyiv's "categorical refusal" to take necessary political and diplomatic measures for conflict resolution. Commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership Kremlin said that the conversation was informative and constructive, with both leaders reaffirming their mutual commitment to enhancing the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between Russia and India. Watch | French President spotted at singer Elton John's concert amid riots × They agreed on the necessity of further engagements and exchanges to deepen bilateral ties. The conversation between the leaders comes days after the Russian mercenary group Wagner initiated a revolt amidst escalating tensions between the Russian Ministry of Defense and Wagner's leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin. Prigozhin started the rebellion as a response to an alleged attack by the ministry on his forces. On June 24, in a televised address, Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned Wagner mercenaries for their actions and called it "treason". Prigozhin's forces successfully seized control of Russia's Rostov-on-Don and the headquarters of the Southern Military District before advancing towards Moscow in an armoured column. Following the intervention of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Prigozhin agreed to retreat and his forces began withdrawing from Rostov-on-Don late on June 24. The Russian Federal Security Service initially had opened a case for armed rebellion against the Wagner chief but later closed it on June 27 and dropped the charges. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

PM Modi holds talks with Putin, expresses support for Russia's response to Wagner mutiny

Russia's most senior generals have dropped out of public view following a failed mercenary mutiny aimed at toppling the top brass, amid a drive by President Vladimir Putin to reassert his authority. Armed forces chief of staff General Valery Gerasimov has not appeared in public or on state TV since the aborted mutiny on Saturday when mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin demanded Gerasimov be handed over. Nor has he been mentioned in a defence ministry press release since June 9.

Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov offers to help put down Wagner mutiny

Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov says his forces are ready to help put down Wagner mutiny

Former United States president Donald Trump, who is also an admirer of Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Thursday, said that Putin was "somewhat weakened" by the Wagner revolt and that now was the time for the US to mediate and try negotiating a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine to end the war.

"I want people to stop dying over this ridiculous war," Trump said in a conversation with news agency Reuters.

On being asked about the foreign policy, Trump said that China should be given a 48-hour deadline to get out of what sources familiar with the matter say is a Chinese spy capability on the island of Cuba 90 miles (145 km) off the U.S. coast.

Speaking about Ukraine, the former US president said that everything would be "subject to negotiation" if he were president, and added that Ukrainians have strongly waged the fight to defend their country and have "earned a lot of credit".

"I think they would be entitled to keep much of what they've earned and I think that Russia likewise would agree to that. You need the right mediator or negotiator, and we don't have that right now," he said.

He further said that the United States should now be making efforts to bring both the countries, Russia and Ukraine, together to force peace.

"I think the biggest thing that the U.S. should be doing right now is making peace — getting Russia and Ukraine together and making peace. You can do it," he added. "This is the time to do it, to get the two parties together to force peace."

During his tenure, Trump had become friends with his Russian counterpart, who now Biden says has "become a bit of pariah around the world" for invading Ukraine.

Trump then said that Putin has&nbsp;been 'weakened' by the mutiny by the mercenary group Wagner, which took place last weekend.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-chancellor-olaf-scholz-says-russian-president-putin-weakened-by-wagner-mutiny-609856">German Chancellor Olaf Scholz says Russian President Putin 'weakened' by Wagner mutiny</a>

"You could say that he's (Putin) still there, he's still strong, but he certainly has been I would say somewhat weakened at least in the minds of a lot of people," he said.

If Putin were no longer in power, however, "you don't know what the alternative is. It could be better, but it could be far worse," Trump said.

Speaking on the war crime charges levied against Putin by the International Criminal Court last March, Trump said that the fate of the Russian President should be discussed when the war is over "because right now if you bring that topic up, you'll never make peace, you'll never make a settlement."

<h2>Olaf Scholz says Wagner mutiny 'weakened' Putin </h2>

Earlier, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said the mutiny by mercenary group Wagner had "weakened" Russian President Vladimir Putin.

In his first extensive comments about the aborted rebellion, Scholz said it would "surely have long-term consequences in Russia".&nbsp;

"I do believe that he (Putin) is weakened," Scholz told public broadcaster ARD.

"It shows that the autocratic structures, the power structures, have cracks and he in no way sits as firmly in the saddle as he always claims," the German leader said.

"But I don't want to take part in speculation about how long he'll stay in office, it could be a long time or short, we don't know."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

 
 
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Former United States president Donald Trump, who is also an admirer of Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Thursday, said that Putin was "somewhat weakened" by the Wagner revolt and that now was the time for the US to mediate and try negotiating a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine to end the war.

Former United States president Donald Trump, who is also an admirer of Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Thursday, said that Putin was "somewhat weakened" by the Wagner revolt and that now was the time for the US to mediate and try negotiating a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine to end the war. "I want people to stop dying over this ridiculous war," Trump said in a conversation with news agency Reuters. On being asked about the foreign policy, Trump said that China should be given a 48-hour deadline to get out of what sources familiar with the matter say is a Chinese spy capability on the island of Cuba 90 miles (145 km) off the U.S. coast. Speaking about Ukraine, the former US president said that everything would be "subject to negotiation" if he were president, and added that Ukrainians have strongly waged the fight to defend their country and have "earned a lot of credit". "I think they would be entitled to keep much of what they've earned and I think that Russia likewise would agree to that. You need the right mediator or negotiator, and we don't have that right now," he said. He further said that the United States should now be making efforts to bring both the countries, Russia and Ukraine, together to force peace. "I think the biggest thing that the U.S. should be doing right now is making peace — getting Russia and Ukraine together and making peace. You can do it," he added. "This is the time to do it, to get the two parties together to force peace." During his tenure, Trump had become friends with his Russian counterpart, who now Biden says has "become a bit of pariah around the world" for invading Ukraine. Trump then said that Putin has been 'weakened' by the mutiny by the mercenary group Wagner, which took place last weekend. Also read: German Chancellor Olaf Scholz says Russian President Putin 'weakened' by Wagner mutiny "You could say that he's (Putin) still there, he's still strong, but he certainly has been I would say somewhat weakened at least in the minds of a lot of people," he said. If Putin were no longer in power, however, "you don't know what the alternative is. It could be better, but it could be far worse," Trump said. Speaking on the war crime charges levied against Putin by the International Criminal Court last March, Trump said that the fate of the Russian President should be discussed when the war is over "because right now if you bring that topic up, you'll never make peace, you'll never make a settlement." Olaf Scholz says Wagner mutiny 'weakened' Putin Earlier, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said the mutiny by mercenary group Wagner had "weakened" Russian President Vladimir Putin. In his first extensive comments about the aborted rebellion, Scholz said it would "surely have long-term consequences in Russia". "I do believe that he (Putin) is weakened," Scholz told public broadcaster ARD. "It shows that the autocratic structures, the power structures, have cracks and he in no way sits as firmly in the saddle as he always claims," the German leader said. "But I don't want to take part in speculation about how long he'll stay in office, it could be a long time or short, we don't know." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Donald Trump says Putin 'weakened' by Wagner mutiny, it's time to broker peace

It has been four days since the Wagner Chief you have Yevgeny Prigozhin aborted his Mutiny against Russia but new developments continue to emerge. New York Times reporters claimed that a senior Russian defense official had prior knowledge about Prigozhin's intentions now this has intensified speculations on the involvement of Russian officials in the subversion. This also could be the biggest blow to the authority of President Vladimir Putin. To discuss this further we are being joined by Volker Stanzel. He is a former German ambassador to China and Japan and a Senior distinguished fellow at SWP German Institute for International and Security Affairs.

Wagner Chief in Belarus after aborting mission

Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks at an annual forum "Strong ideas of our time" held by the state Agency for Strategic Initiatives.

Vladimir Putin hails India's prime Minister Narendra Modi

The EU's top diplomat warned Thursday that a "weaker" Russian President Vladimir Putin would pose a "greater danger" after Wagner's aborted mutiny sparked the largest political crisis in decades in the nuclear-armed country. Until now we were looking at Russia as a threat because it was a lot of force and force has been used in Ukraine. Now we have to look at Russia as a risk because of internal instability," Borrell

Wagner mutiny: Weaker Putin is a great danger, says EU's Borrel

Two of Russia's top military generals have gone missing. One of them was in-charge of Russia's war in Ukraine, and the other was formerly in command of the war. The Kremlin says it has no information of the generals' whereabouts. What happened to them? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Russia's missing military generals | What happened to 'General Armageddon'?

The whereabouts of a top Russian military general have been unknown to the public since Saturday. Sparking speculation regarding his involvement in the recent mutiny by the mercenary group Wagner.

Is Russia's general Sergei Surovikin facing repercussions for facilitating mutiny

Where is Russia's general Sergei Surovikin?

Gen. Sergei Surovikin, the ruthless one-time leader of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, was last seen telling the Wagner Group mercenaries to stop their uprising in an uncomfortable appeal likened to “a hostage video.”

Russian general who knew about mutiny is missing: report

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Wednesday said the mutiny by mercenary group Wagner had "weakened" Russian President Vladimir Putin, but the ultimate consequences of the rebellion still remained unclear.

The revolt by the mercenary group that took place past weekend, has triggered speculations over Putin's grip on power as Moscow's war in Ukraine grinds on.&nbsp;

In his first extensive comments about the aborted rebellion, Scholz said it would "surely have long-term consequences in Russia".&nbsp;

"I do believe that he (Putin) is weakened," Scholz told public broadcaster ARD.

"It shows that the autocratic structures, the power structures, have cracks and he in no way sits as firmly in the saddle as he always claims," the German leader said.

"But I don't want to take part in speculation about how long he'll stay in office, it could be a long time or short, we don't know."&nbsp;

Scholz then added that his country and the Western allies would be keeping a close watch on further developments on this.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-wished-to-wipe-out-wagner-chief-prigozhin-during-mutiny-claims-lukashenko-609677">Putin wished to ‘wipe out’ Wagner chief Prigozhin after mutiny, claims Lukashenko</a>

"Russia is a nuclear power, it is a very powerful country and that is why we have to watch very carefully when dangerous situations arise," he said.

<h2>Scholz reaffirms Berlin's support for Ukraine</h2>

Further reaffirming Berlin's support for Ukraine, Scholz highlighted that there could be no peace negotiations until Moscow withdrew its forces.

"Anything else would legitimise what's happened," he said. "And that is why it can't end up that the war is just frozen there where the line is between the various armies."

He said it was unclear whether the Wagner mutiny "would make it easier or harder" to end the war.

"That is why it is important for Ukraine to do its part to make it (a resolution) possible -- that is what it is trying to do with the current offensive."

Scholz said Western allies were "supporting Ukraine so it can defend itself" but stressed that "the goal of our support for Ukraine is not regime change in Russia".

On being asked about the potential risks posed by Wagner forces in Belarus, Scholz asserted that NATO would be closely monitoring the developments.

"Private armies are always threatening, even for the countries that maintain them -- Russia has now seen that," he told reporters.

Calling it a "situation that we are watching with great concern", Scholz said nevertheless that NATO was prepared to "defend every centimetre of its territory".

"At the same time, I am not currently expecting a change in the situation," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
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German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Wednesday said the mutiny by mercenary group Wagner had "weakened" Russian President Vladimir Putin, but the ultimate consequences of the rebellion still remained unclear.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Wednesday said the mutiny by mercenary group Wagner had "weakened" Russian President Vladimir Putin, but the ultimate consequences of the rebellion still remained unclear. The revolt by the mercenary group that took place past weekend, has triggered speculations over Putin's grip on power as Moscow's war in Ukraine grinds on. In his first extensive comments about the aborted rebellion, Scholz said it would "surely have long-term consequences in Russia". "I do believe that he (Putin) is weakened," Scholz told public broadcaster ARD. "It shows that the autocratic structures, the power structures, have cracks and he in no way sits as firmly in the saddle as he always claims," the German leader said. "But I don't want to take part in speculation about how long he'll stay in office, it could be a long time or short, we don't know." Scholz then added that his country and the Western allies would be keeping a close watch on further developments on this. Also read: Putin wished to ‘wipe out’ Wagner chief Prigozhin after mutiny, claims Lukashenko "Russia is a nuclear power, it is a very powerful country and that is why we have to watch very carefully when dangerous situations arise," he said. Scholz reaffirms Berlin's support for Ukraine Further reaffirming Berlin's support for Ukraine, Scholz highlighted that there could be no peace negotiations until Moscow withdrew its forces. "Anything else would legitimise what's happened," he said. "And that is why it can't end up that the war is just frozen there where the line is between the various armies." He said it was unclear whether the Wagner mutiny "would make it easier or harder" to end the war. "That is why it is important for Ukraine to do its part to make it (a resolution) possible -- that is what it is trying to do with the current offensive." Scholz said Western allies were "supporting Ukraine so it can defend itself" but stressed that "the goal of our support for Ukraine is not regime change in Russia". On being asked about the potential risks posed by Wagner forces in Belarus, Scholz asserted that NATO would be closely monitoring the developments. "Private armies are always threatening, even for the countries that maintain them -- Russia has now seen that," he told reporters. Calling it a "situation that we are watching with great concern", Scholz said nevertheless that NATO was prepared to "defend every centimetre of its territory". "At the same time, I am not currently expecting a change in the situation," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz says Russian President Putin 'weakened' by Wagner mutiny

The Wagner Group mercenaries who seized the Russian city of Rostov-on-Don on Saturday in a failed mutiny included at least three convicted criminals, a Reuters review of facial recognition software, court records and social media showed.

Wagner mutineers included Russian convicts freed to fight in Ukraine?

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said that he did not doubt the support of Russian citizens during the uprising by the mercenary group Wagner.

"I did not doubt the reaction in Dagestan and in all of the country," he said as he met Sergei Melikov, the head of the Caucasus region, according to an extract of the meeting aired on Russian television.

Putin released this statement in his response to Melikov, who had remarked that "there was not a single person in Dagestan who did not support decisions made by the leaders of the Russian Federation" over the aborted rebellion.

<h2>Putin wished to ‘wipe out’ Wagner chief after mutiny</h2>

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko claimed that he had requested Russian President Vladimir Putin not to "wipe out" mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin amid the armed mutiny of Wagner group that pushed Russia to the brink of civil war.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-vladimir-putin-wanted-to-kill-wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-but-stopped-heres-how-609686">Explained | Putin wanted to kill Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, but stopped. Here's what happened</a>

Initially, Putin had promised to crush the mutiny which it compared to the wartime turmoil that had led to the revolution of 1917 followed by civil war. However, hours later the Wagner chief finalised a deal which allowed him along with some of his fighters to go to Belarus.

On Tuesday, Wagner chief flew to Belarus from Russia. Lukashenko, while talking about the conversation he had with Putin on Saturday, made use of the Russian criminal slang phrase used for killing someone which is similar to the English phrase to "wipe out".

"I also understood: a brutal decision had been made (and it was the undertone of Putin's address) to wipe out the mutineers," said Lukashenko in a meeting of his army officials as well as journalists on Tuesday, as reported by the Belarusian state media.

"I suggested to Putin not to rush. 'Come on,' I said, 'Let's talk with Prigozhin, with his commanders.' To which he told me: 'Listen, Sasha, it's useless. He doesn't even pick up the phone, he doesn’t want to talk to anyone'," he stated.&nbsp;

The same Russian verb was used by Putin in 1999 about Chechen militants, as he vowed to "wipe them out in the sh*thouse". The remarks made by Putin became a widely quoted emblem of the Russian leader's severe persona.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said that he did not doubt the support of Russian citizens during the uprising by the mercenary group Wagner. "I did not doubt the reaction in Dagestan and in all of the country," he said as he met Sergei Melikov, the head of the Caucasus region, according to an extract of the meeting aired on Russian television.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said that he did not doubt the support of Russian citizens during the uprising by the mercenary group Wagner. "I did not doubt the reaction in Dagestan and in all of the country," he said as he met Sergei Melikov, the head of the Caucasus region, according to an extract of the meeting aired on Russian television. Putin released this statement in his response to Melikov, who had remarked that "there was not a single person in Dagestan who did not support decisions made by the leaders of the Russian Federation" over the aborted rebellion. Putin wished to ‘wipe out’ Wagner chief after mutiny Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko claimed that he had requested Russian President Vladimir Putin not to "wipe out" mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin amid the armed mutiny of Wagner group that pushed Russia to the brink of civil war. Also read: Explained | Putin wanted to kill Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, but stopped. Here's what happened Initially, Putin had promised to crush the mutiny which it compared to the wartime turmoil that had led to the revolution of 1917 followed by civil war. However, hours later the Wagner chief finalised a deal which allowed him along with some of his fighters to go to Belarus. On Tuesday, Wagner chief flew to Belarus from Russia. Lukashenko, while talking about the conversation he had with Putin on Saturday, made use of the Russian criminal slang phrase used for killing someone which is similar to the English phrase to "wipe out". "I also understood: a brutal decision had been made (and it was the undertone of Putin's address) to wipe out the mutineers," said Lukashenko in a meeting of his army officials as well as journalists on Tuesday, as reported by the Belarusian state media. "I suggested to Putin not to rush. 'Come on,' I said, 'Let's talk with Prigozhin, with his commanders.' To which he told me: 'Listen, Sasha, it's useless. He doesn't even pick up the phone, he doesn’t want to talk to anyone'," he stated. The same Russian verb was used by Putin in 1999 about Chechen militants, as he vowed to "wipe them out in the sh*thouse". The remarks made by Putin became a widely quoted emblem of the Russian leader's severe persona. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

President Vladimir Putin says 'did not doubt' support of Russian citizens during mutiny

Putin addresses members of the FSB, Federal Protection Service, Interior Ministry troops who 'ensured order' during the mutiny.

Wagner mutiny: Putin shaken but mot stirred?

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- A Russian rocket strike on a restaurant in Kramatorsk, Ukraine killed three people and injured over 40. A popular Pizza restaurant was destroyed, trapping some people under the rubble. Rescue efforts were underway.

4 Dead, 42 injured in Russian missile attack in Kramatorsk

Eastern European NATO countries on Tuesday warned that Russian mercenary group, Wagner's move to Belarus would create greater regional instability. However, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that the alliance is ready to defend itself against any threat.

"If Wagner deploys its serial killers in Belarus, all neighbouring countries face the even bigger danger of instability," Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said after a meeting in The Hague with Stoltenberg and government leaders from six other NATO allies.

"This is really serious and very concerning, and we have to make very strong decisions. It requires a very, very tough answer of NATO," Polish President Andrzej Duda added.

On Tuesday, mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin arrived in Belarus under an agreement negotiated by President Alexander Lukashenko that ended mutiny by the group in Russia on Saturday.

NATO's Stoltenberg said it was too early to say what this could mean for NATO allies, and stressed the increased defence of the alliance's eastern flank in recent years.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-plane-belonging-to-wagner-chief-reportedly-lands-in-belarus-609259">Russia-Ukraine war: Lukashenko says Wagner chief Prigozhin in Belarus</a>

"We have sent a clear message to Moscow and Minsk that NATO is there to protect every ally, every inch of NATO territory," Stoltenberg said.

"We have already increased our military presence in the eastern part of the alliance and we will make further decisions to further strengthen our collective defence with more high-readiness forces and more capabilities at the upcoming summit."

Stoltenberg said the mutiny had shown that Putin's "illegal war" against Ukraine had deepened divisions in Russia.

"At the same time we must not underestimate Russia. So it's even more important that we continue to provide Ukraine with our support."

<h2>Putin says Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus'</h2>

In a televised address to the nation on Monday, President Putin said that he would honour his promise to allow Wagner fighters to relocate to Belarus, if they wanted, or to sign a contract with the Defence Ministry or simply return to their families.

"I thank those soldiers and commanders of the Wagner Group who made the only right decision - they did not turn to fratricidal bloodshed, they stopped at the last line. Today you have the opportunity to continue serving Russia by entering into a contract with the Ministry of Defence or other law enforcement agencies or to return to your family and friends. Whoever wants to can go to Belarus. The promise I made will be fulfilled."

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Eastern European NATO countries on Tuesday warned that Russian mercenary group, Wagner's move to Belarus would create greater regional instability. However, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that the alliance is ready to defend itself against any threat.

Eastern European NATO countries on Tuesday warned that Russian mercenary group, Wagner's move to Belarus would create greater regional instability. However, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that the alliance is ready to defend itself against any threat. "If Wagner deploys its serial killers in Belarus, all neighbouring countries face the even bigger danger of instability," Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said after a meeting in The Hague with Stoltenberg and government leaders from six other NATO allies. "This is really serious and very concerning, and we have to make very strong decisions. It requires a very, very tough answer of NATO," Polish President Andrzej Duda added. On Tuesday, mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin arrived in Belarus under an agreement negotiated by President Alexander Lukashenko that ended mutiny by the group in Russia on Saturday. NATO's Stoltenberg said it was too early to say what this could mean for NATO allies, and stressed the increased defence of the alliance's eastern flank in recent years. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Lukashenko says Wagner chief Prigozhin in Belarus "We have sent a clear message to Moscow and Minsk that NATO is there to protect every ally, every inch of NATO territory," Stoltenberg said. "We have already increased our military presence in the eastern part of the alliance and we will make further decisions to further strengthen our collective defence with more high-readiness forces and more capabilities at the upcoming summit." Stoltenberg said the mutiny had shown that Putin's "illegal war" against Ukraine had deepened divisions in Russia. "At the same time we must not underestimate Russia. So it's even more important that we continue to provide Ukraine with our support." Putin says Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus' In a televised address to the nation on Monday, President Putin said that he would honour his promise to allow Wagner fighters to relocate to Belarus, if they wanted, or to sign a contract with the Defence Ministry or simply return to their families. "I thank those soldiers and commanders of the Wagner Group who made the only right decision - they did not turn to fratricidal bloodshed, they stopped at the last line. Today you have the opportunity to continue serving Russia by entering into a contract with the Ministry of Defence or other law enforcement agencies or to return to your family and friends. Whoever wants to can go to Belarus. The promise I made will be fulfilled." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Eastern European NATO allies say Wagner's move to Belarus will create regional instability

A Russian rocket strike on a restaurant in Kramatorsk, Ukraine killed three people and injured over 40. A popular Pizza restaurant was destroyed, trapping some people under the rubble. Rescue efforts were underway.

Ukraine war: 4 killed, 42 injured in Russian missile strike on Kramatorsk

The United States is stepping up sanctions heat on Prigozhin's Wagner mercenary group. The latest round targets companies accused of illicit gold dealings to fund the mercenary group. This includes sanctions on two companies based in Central African republic. Previous US Sanctions against Wagner group had been put on hold. The latest round however were put in place following the Wagner chief's exile to Belarus. Russian mercenary leader yevgeny prigozhin flew to Belarus after being exiled from the Russian federation.

US treasury sanctions Wagner group's financiers in Africa

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said he persuaded Russian President Vladimir Putin not to "wipe out" mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, in response to what the Kremlin cast as a mutiny that pushed Russia towards civil war.

Lukashenko: We want Wagner's was experience in our army

Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin has for the first time released an audio statement since aborting an armed rebellion. He says he wasn't aiming to go against the Russian Authorities but he was trying to protect his group from disbanding. He released an 11-minute audio statement post Wagner Mutiny, keep watching to know more.

Wagner Chief Prigozhin defends decision to stage march

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky handed out awards to troops and posed for selfies with soldiers during a visit to the eastern region of Donetsk, footage of which was posted online on Monday.

Zelensky hands out awards, poses for selfies with Ukrainian troops

Was the Wagner Mutiny a double game? Is Prigozhin's exile a redeployment? Is he Kremlin's Trojan Horse? Molly Gambhir takes you through the claims that are being made around his exile to Belarus.

Was the Wagner Mutiny a double game?

What is Belarus gaining from the chaos

The White House on Monday released a statement saying that the US diplomats spoke to their Russian counterparts and discussed the security concerns involved during the revolt by the mercenary group Wagner.

The mutiny by Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin prompted this rare contact between Russia and the United States. The revolt had briefly taken control of a major city and had also threatened to attack Moscow. The turmoil ignited fears in Washington that nuclear-armed Russia could plunge into chaos.

"Instability in Russia is something that, you know, we take seriously and we certainly had lots of questions over the course of the weekend," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said when asked about fears over turmoil in nuclear-armed Russia.

"We did have and were able to have in real-time -- through diplomatic channels -- conversations with Russian officials about our concerns," he said.

Kirby further stated that United States officials continue to monitor Moscow's nuclear posture "very closely" during the invasion by Russian troops of pro-Western Ukraine.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-putin-begins-address-to-russians-thanks-citizens-for-patriotism-during-wagner-revolt-609015">Putin says Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus' in his address to Russians</a>

So far there is "no indication" that Russian President Vladimir Putin is moving in the "direction" of using nuclear weapons or "anything that will cause us to change our own deterrent posture," Kirby said.

<h2>West 'had nothing to do' with Russia's Wagner revolt, says Biden</h2>

United States President Joe Biden, on Monday (June 26), said that Russian President Vladimir Putin has “no excuse” to blame the Wagner group’s aborted march on Washington and that the West had “had nothing to do” with it. This comes as Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reportedly said that the country’s intelligence services are in the midst of investigating if Western spy agencies played a role in the Wagner mutiny.

Addressing a press conference, on Monday, the US president spoke about how when the revolt began he spoke to his key allies about the situation which was unfolding in Russia at the time. “I also convened our key allies on a Zoom call,” said Biden. He added, “They agreed that we had to make sure we gave Putin no excuse...to blame this on the West and to blame this on NATO.”&nbsp;

The US president also said that the turmoil was “part of the struggle within the Russian system.” This comes after mercenary group Wagner’s chief Yevgeny Prigozhin declared an armed rebellion in Russia with Putin saying that he is determined to quash the said revolt, which claimed to have seized control of the southern Russian city of Rostov-on-Don, on Saturday.&nbsp;

In a brief statement, the White House, on Saturday said that Biden held a call with French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and the United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to discuss the “situation in Russia” and “affirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine".

Furthermore, the US president also said that it’s “too early” to draw any definitive conclusions on “where this is going.” He added, “We’re going to keep assessing the fallout of this weekend’s events and the implications for Russia and Ukraine.”&nbsp;

However, Biden also stressed that his key Western allies are in touch with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and they will “continue to support Ukraine’s defence and sovereignty and its territorial integrity.” The US president also said that he will be calling key allies again Monday without mentioning who would be a part of this meeting.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The White House on Monday released a statement saying that the US diplomats spoke to their Russian counterparts and discussed the security concerns involved during the revolt by the mercenary group Wagner.

The White House on Monday released a statement saying that the US diplomats spoke to their Russian counterparts and discussed the security concerns involved during the revolt by the mercenary group Wagner. The mutiny by Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin prompted this rare contact between Russia and the United States. The revolt had briefly taken control of a major city and had also threatened to attack Moscow. The turmoil ignited fears in Washington that nuclear-armed Russia could plunge into chaos. "Instability in Russia is something that, you know, we take seriously and we certainly had lots of questions over the course of the weekend," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said when asked about fears over turmoil in nuclear-armed Russia. "We did have and were able to have in real-time -- through diplomatic channels -- conversations with Russian officials about our concerns," he said. Kirby further stated that United States officials continue to monitor Moscow's nuclear posture "very closely" during the invasion by Russian troops of pro-Western Ukraine. Also read: Putin says Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus' in his address to Russians So far there is "no indication" that Russian President Vladimir Putin is moving in the "direction" of using nuclear weapons or "anything that will cause us to change our own deterrent posture," Kirby said. West 'had nothing to do' with Russia's Wagner revolt, says Biden United States President Joe Biden, on Monday (June 26), said that Russian President Vladimir Putin has “no excuse” to blame the Wagner group’s aborted march on Washington and that the West had “had nothing to do” with it. This comes as Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reportedly said that the country’s intelligence services are in the midst of investigating if Western spy agencies played a role in the Wagner mutiny. Addressing a press conference, on Monday, the US president spoke about how when the revolt began he spoke to his key allies about the situation which was unfolding in Russia at the time. “I also convened our key allies on a Zoom call,” said Biden. He added, “They agreed that we had to make sure we gave Putin no excuse...to blame this on the West and to blame this on NATO.” The US president also said that the turmoil was “part of the struggle within the Russian system.” This comes after mercenary group Wagner’s chief Yevgeny Prigozhin declared an armed rebellion in Russia with Putin saying that he is determined to quash the said revolt, which claimed to have seized control of the southern Russian city of Rostov-on-Don, on Saturday. In a brief statement, the White House, on Saturday said that Biden held a call with French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and the United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to discuss the “situation in Russia” and “affirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine". Furthermore, the US president also said that it’s “too early” to draw any definitive conclusions on “where this is going.” He added, “We’re going to keep assessing the fallout of this weekend’s events and the implications for Russia and Ukraine.” However, Biden also stressed that his key Western allies are in touch with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and they will “continue to support Ukraine’s defence and sovereignty and its territorial integrity.” The US president also said that he will be calling key allies again Monday without mentioning who would be a part of this meeting. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US spoke to Russian counterparts to discuss security concerns during Wagner revolt, says White House

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