<p>Russian prosecutors on Thursday, May 18, have asked the Oktyabr (October) district court to fine Kremlin critic, Yevgeny Roizman for his comments about the Ukraine conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian prosecutor has urged the judge to "find Yevgeny Roizman guilty and impose a fine of 260,000 rubles (nearly $3,250)" for discrediting the Russian military.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A trial by fire?</strong></h2>

<p>The 60-year-old critic Yevgeny Roizman, pleaded not guilty at the trial that began on April 26 this year. He was arrested in August last year for his statements on the Russia-Ukraine war that started in February 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The trial, which was conducted on the basis of a video posted on YouTube in July 2022, where Roizman was allegedly accused of discrediting the Russian army could have ended in him being jailed for up to five years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since his arrest, he has been barred from using the internet, telephones and mails. His communications have been limited to family members and his lawyers. Additionally, he has also been barred from attending any public event.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/battle-of-bakhmut-ukraine-says-it-made-new-advances-heavy-fighting-continues-593461">Battle of Bakhmut: Ukraine says it made new advances, heavy fighting continues</a></strong></p>

<p>Roizman was sentenced to 14 days in jail in mid-March this year while he awaited trial on a separate charge regarding the alleged distribution of extremist symbols.</p>

<h2><strong>The sentencing of Roizman</strong></h2>

<p>Since the war began, Roizman has been very vocal about the conflict. He has even been fined thrice on the account of ‘misdemeanour’ for ‘discrediting’ the Russian army.&nbsp;<br />
The lenient sentence asked by the prosecutor was justified on the grounds that the offence holds “low gravity” and the "mitigating circumstances" that includes the fact that Roizman has young children and is involved in charitable activities.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Missiles hit buildings in Russian-controlled Luhansk city</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Russia’s attempt to silence critics?</strong></h2>

<p>Since the Russia-Ukraine war started, Russia has been trying its best to suppress any uproar or voice of dissent that questions the legitimacy of the war or President Putin’s leadership.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shortly after the war began, President Putin signed a law which criminalises any criticism regarding the armed forces or the conduct of the Ukraine war; which the Russians consider to be a “special military operation.” &nbsp;</p>

<p>Several critics of the war have been jailed over a period of time for questioning the current scenario and Putin’s leadership. In April opposition politician and critic Vladimir Kara-Murza was sentenced by a court in Moscow for 25 years in prison on treason and other charges for criticising the war.&nbsp;</p>

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Russian prosecutors on Thursday, May 18, have asked the Oktyabr (October) district court to fine Kremlin critic, Yevgeny Roizman for his comments about the Ukraine conflict.

Russian prosecutors on Thursday, May 18, have asked the Oktyabr (October) district court to fine Kremlin critic, Yevgeny Roizman for his comments about the Ukraine conflict. The Russian prosecutor has urged the judge to "find Yevgeny Roizman guilty and impose a fine of 260,000 rubles (nearly $3,250)" for discrediting the Russian military. A trial by fire? The 60-year-old critic Yevgeny Roizman, pleaded not guilty at the trial that began on April 26 this year. He was arrested in August last year for his statements on the Russia-Ukraine war that started in February 2022. The trial, which was conducted on the basis of a video posted on YouTube in July 2022, where Roizman was allegedly accused of discrediting the Russian army could have ended in him being jailed for up to five years. Since his arrest, he has been barred from using the internet, telephones and mails. His communications have been limited to family members and his lawyers. Additionally, he has also been barred from attending any public event. ALSO READ | Battle of Bakhmut: Ukraine says it made new advances, heavy fighting continues Roizman was sentenced to 14 days in jail in mid-March this year while he awaited trial on a separate charge regarding the alleged distribution of extremist symbols. The sentencing of Roizman Since the war began, Roizman has been very vocal about the conflict. He has even been fined thrice on the account of ‘misdemeanour’ for ‘discrediting’ the Russian army. The lenient sentence asked by the prosecutor was justified on the grounds that the offence holds “low gravity” and the "mitigating circumstances" that includes the fact that Roizman has young children and is involved in charitable activities. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Missiles hit buildings in Russian-controlled Luhansk city × Russia’s attempt to silence critics? Since the Russia-Ukraine war started, Russia has been trying its best to suppress any uproar or voice of dissent that questions the legitimacy of the war or President Putin’s leadership. Shortly after the war began, President Putin signed a law which criminalises any criticism regarding the armed forces or the conduct of the Ukraine war; which the Russians consider to be a “special military operation.” Several critics of the war have been jailed over a period of time for questioning the current scenario and Putin’s leadership. In April opposition politician and critic Vladimir Kara-Murza was sentenced by a court in Moscow for 25 years in prison on treason and other charges for criticising the war. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Fine imposed on critic Yevgeny Roizman for his comments on the Russia-Ukraine war

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that Russia has decided to cut crude oil production in order to support global oil prices. Putin emphasized that the oil situation remains stable. Russia pledged to reduce its crude production by 500,000 barrels per day in March and maintain the curbs throughout the year, aiming to create a favorable price environment in collaboration with its partners in Opec+. However, market watchers have expressed skepticism about the level of Moscow's reductions, as the international energy agency believes a cut of 300,000 barrels per day is necessary to meet the target.

Putin: oil production cuts to support prices

At least nine people were killed across Ukraine as Russia unleashed a wave of high-precision missile and other attacks. The barrage triggered a wave of power cuts, including at Europe's biggest nuclear power plant. The Kinzhal missile was one of six next-generation weapons unveiled by Russian president Putin during a speech in march 2018. The Kinzhal, meaning dagger, is Moscow's airborne hypersonic missile system.

Russia roars, US Patriot system likely damaged | To Mach 5 & beyond: Age of high-speed warfare

The European Union will discuss the existing and future sanctions against Russia at the G7 summit scheduled to take place in Japan from May19-21. Watch the video to know more.

EU to discuss 11th package of sanctions against Russia at G7 summit

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin signed an order simplifying the process for acquiring Russian citizenship for foreigners who serve in his military while the war in Ukraine is ongoing.</p>

<p>It applies to foreigners&nbsp;who enlist into one-year contracts with the Russian army during the war in Ukraine, which the Kremlin refers to as a "special military operation." According to the order, those individuals&nbsp;and their family members will be allowed to apply for Russian citizenship more easily—without the necessity for a residence&nbsp;permit, Newsweek reported.</p>

<p>The decree expands on legislation put into law by Russia's president in September 2022, which contained a condition that applicants be part in hostilities in Ukraine for at least six months. This demand is not included in the latest version.</p>

<p>The move comes ahead of Ukraine's widely-anticipated counteroffensive, and Russia's loss tally is expected to approach 200,000, according to Ukrainian military estimations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin has issued a series of regulations aimed at increasing troop numbers in Russia's war against Ukraine.</p>

<p>Against the backdrop of massive deaths in Ukraine, Russia's parliament adopted legislation in May that abolished the maximum age restriction for contractual duty in the Russian armed services.</p>

<p>In August 2022, Putin approved legislation increasing the strength of his army from 1.9 million to 2.04 million troops. This took effect on January 1.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine Supreme Court chief dismissed after being detained in bribery case</strong></p>

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<p>In March, Putin approved an order reducing the upper age restriction for Russian National Guard personnel operating in areas of Ukraine controlled by Russian forces.</p>

<p>According to the decision, age limitations for Russian nationals serving in the Federal Service of the Russian Federation's National Guard Troops in the affected regions have been dissolved until January 1, 2026.</p>

<p>Putin illegally seized the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, as well as Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, in the autumn of 2022, following referendums branded as a "sham" by US President Joe Biden. Russia does not have complete authority over any of the territories, and international nations, notably the United States, have condemned the action as illegal.</p>

<p>The decree says&nbsp;Russian citizens serving in annexed regions will instead be tested by a military medical examination conducted in absentia, which will establish their fitness to serve.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine employs modified UAVs in combat; Kakrut reveals a game-changing tactic</strong></p>

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<p>As per&nbsp;Western calculations, Ukrainian losses in the battle have also been significant. According to a US Defence Intelligence Agency report released in April, Ukraine lost 124,500-131,000 casualties, including 15,500-17,500 killed and 109,000-113,500 injured.</p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin signed an order simplifying the process for acquiring Russian citizenship for foreigners who serve in his military while the war in Ukraine is ongoing.

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed an order simplifying the process for acquiring Russian citizenship for foreigners who serve in his military while the war in Ukraine is ongoing. It applies to foreigners who enlist into one-year contracts with the Russian army during the war in Ukraine, which the Kremlin refers to as a "special military operation." According to the order, those individuals and their family members will be allowed to apply for Russian citizenship more easily—without the necessity for a residence permit, Newsweek reported. The decree expands on legislation put into law by Russia's president in September 2022, which contained a condition that applicants be part in hostilities in Ukraine for at least six months. This demand is not included in the latest version. The move comes ahead of Ukraine's widely-anticipated counteroffensive, and Russia's loss tally is expected to approach 200,000, according to Ukrainian military estimations. Putin has issued a series of regulations aimed at increasing troop numbers in Russia's war against Ukraine. Against the backdrop of massive deaths in Ukraine, Russia's parliament adopted legislation in May that abolished the maximum age restriction for contractual duty in the Russian armed services. In August 2022, Putin approved legislation increasing the strength of his army from 1.9 million to 2.04 million troops. This took effect on January 1. ALSO WATCH | Ukraine Supreme Court chief dismissed after being detained in bribery case In March, Putin approved an order reducing the upper age restriction for Russian National Guard personnel operating in areas of Ukraine controlled by Russian forces. According to the decision, age limitations for Russian nationals serving in the Federal Service of the Russian Federation's National Guard Troops in the affected regions have been dissolved until January 1, 2026. Putin illegally seized the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, as well as Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, in the autumn of 2022, following referendums branded as a "sham" by US President Joe Biden. Russia does not have complete authority over any of the territories, and international nations, notably the United States, have condemned the action as illegal. The decree says Russian citizens serving in annexed regions will instead be tested by a military medical examination conducted in absentia, which will establish their fitness to serve. ALSO WATCH | Ukraine employs modified UAVs in combat; Kakrut reveals a game-changing tactic As per Western calculations, Ukrainian losses in the battle have also been significant. According to a US Defence Intelligence Agency report released in April, Ukraine lost 124,500-131,000 casualties, including 15,500-17,500 killed and 109,000-113,500 injured. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Putin eases citizenship process for foreigners fighting for Russia in Ukraine

The Russian Defense Ministry has acknowledged its forces retreated from positions north of the city of Bakhmut in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region which for months has been the scene of heavy fighting.

Russia acknowledges retreat north of Bakhmut after major advance by Ukrainian troops

Germany will provide Ukraine with additional military aid worth more than 2.7 billion euros ($3 billion), including tanks, anti-aircraft systems, and ammunition, the government said Saturday.

Germany announces $3 billion military package for Ukraine

<p>Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed Germany a "true friend and reliable ally" in his country's war against Russia on Sunday, as Berlin supplied&nbsp;an extensive new military&nbsp;package for Kyiv during his visit to the EU powerhouse.&nbsp;Zelensky's visit to Germany comes after talks in Rome with Italian leaders and the Pope, and it coincides with Kyiv's plans for a much-anticipated counter-offensive.</p>

<p>"In the most challenging time in the modern history of Ukraine, Germany proved to be our true friend and reliable ally, which stands decisively side-by-side with the Ukrainian people in the struggle to defend freedom and democratic values," Zelensky&nbsp;wrote in the guestbook at the German president's official residence.</p>

<p>"Together we will win and bring peace back to Europe," he added.</p>

<p>Ukrainian forces have been training troops and stockpiling Western-supplied ammunition and gear, which many believe will be critical in regaining territory taken by Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Germany was formerly accused of being hesitant to give military equipment to Ukraine, but it has since become a significant donor of tanks, rockets, and anti-missile systems.</p>

<p>On the occasion of Zelensky's visit, Berlin presented its largest weaponry package for Ukraine to date, totaling 2.7 billion euros in tanks, missile defence systems, and combat vehicles.</p>

<p>According to Zelensky, he "discussed the current situation and intensive cooperation between Germany and Ukraine" with Steinmeier.</p>

<p>He was afterwards received with military honours by Chancellor Olaf Scholz before entering negotiations behind closed doors.</p>

<p>He is also set to visit the western German city of Aachen, which will confer the Charlemagne honour on him and the Ukrainian people this year.</p>

<p>Scholz, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki are expected to attend the event in Aachen.</p>

<p>A meeting with European leaders might help pave the stage for an EU summit in Reykjavik next Tuesday, followed by the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan.</p>

<p>Zelensky's visit caps a year of turbulent relations with Germany, which is now one of Ukraine's largest arms suppliers, but only after much pressure from Kiev.</p>

<p>Berlin said on Saturday that it will deliver Ukraine more fire units and launchers for the Iris-T anti-missile system, 30 extra Leopard 1 tanks, more than 100 armoured combat vehicles, and more than 200 surveillance drones in a strong show of support for Kyiv.</p>

<p>"We all hope for a rapid end to this terrible war by Russia against the Ukrainian people, but unfortunately this is not in sight," Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said in a statement.</p>

<p>"This is why Germany will supply all the help that it can, for as long as necessary," he said.</p>

<p>Earlier in the war, Kyiv accused Germany of being overly conciliatory to Russian President Vladimir Putin, while Berlin's reliance on Russian energy became problematic.</p>

<p>Kyiv had similarly refused Steinmeier's visit in the weeks following the invasion, delaying Scholz's first journey to the war-torn nation.</p>

<p>Steinmeier and Scholz have both visited Ukraine subsequently.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed Germany a "true friend and reliable ally" in his country's war against Russia on Sunday, as Berlin supplied an extensive new military package for Kyiv during his visit to the EU powerhouse.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed Germany a "true friend and reliable ally" in his country's war against Russia on Sunday, as Berlin supplied an extensive new military package for Kyiv during his visit to the EU powerhouse. Zelensky's visit to Germany comes after talks in Rome with Italian leaders and the Pope, and it coincides with Kyiv's plans for a much-anticipated counter-offensive. "In the most challenging time in the modern history of Ukraine, Germany proved to be our true friend and reliable ally, which stands decisively side-by-side with the Ukrainian people in the struggle to defend freedom and democratic values," Zelensky wrote in the guestbook at the German president's official residence. "Together we will win and bring peace back to Europe," he added. Ukrainian forces have been training troops and stockpiling Western-supplied ammunition and gear, which many believe will be critical in regaining territory taken by Russia. Germany was formerly accused of being hesitant to give military equipment to Ukraine, but it has since become a significant donor of tanks, rockets, and anti-missile systems. On the occasion of Zelensky's visit, Berlin presented its largest weaponry package for Ukraine to date, totaling 2.7 billion euros in tanks, missile defence systems, and combat vehicles. According to Zelensky, he "discussed the current situation and intensive cooperation between Germany and Ukraine" with Steinmeier. He was afterwards received with military honours by Chancellor Olaf Scholz before entering negotiations behind closed doors. He is also set to visit the western German city of Aachen, which will confer the Charlemagne honour on him and the Ukrainian people this year. Scholz, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki are expected to attend the event in Aachen. A meeting with European leaders might help pave the stage for an EU summit in Reykjavik next Tuesday, followed by the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan. Zelensky's visit caps a year of turbulent relations with Germany, which is now one of Ukraine's largest arms suppliers, but only after much pressure from Kiev. Berlin said on Saturday that it will deliver Ukraine more fire units and launchers for the Iris-T anti-missile system, 30 extra Leopard 1 tanks, more than 100 armoured combat vehicles, and more than 200 surveillance drones in a strong show of support for Kyiv. "We all hope for a rapid end to this terrible war by Russia against the Ukrainian people, but unfortunately this is not in sight," Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said in a statement. "This is why Germany will supply all the help that it can, for as long as necessary," he said. Earlier in the war, Kyiv accused Germany of being overly conciliatory to Russian President Vladimir Putin, while Berlin's reliance on Russian energy became problematic. Kyiv had similarly refused Steinmeier's visit in the weeks following the invasion, delaying Scholz's first journey to the war-torn nation. Steinmeier and Scholz have both visited Ukraine subsequently. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Zelensky hails Germany a 'true friend and reliable ally' in Ukraine's war against Russia

Police in the Russian city of St. Petersburg have created a new anti-drone unit to detect unmanned aerial vehicles following a purported drone attack on the Kremlin earlier this month, they announced on Friday.

Police in Russia debuts anti-drone unit following Kremlin incident

<p>A 60-year-old Russian woman was given a two-year suspended sentence by a court on Thursday (May 11) for leaving a note at the grave of Russian President Vladimir Putin's parents saying that they had raised "a freak and a murderer", reported multiple news outlets.</p>

<p>The prosecutors had sought three-year suspended sentence for Irina Tsybaneva.</p>

<p>She was charged with desecrating the grave in St Petersburg. The note referred Putin's mother and father as "the parents of a maniac".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Death to Putin, you raised a freak and a murderer," the note said, urging the deceased parents to "take him with you".</p>

<p>According to SOTA news website, Tsybaneva will not appeal the verdict. Tsybaneva said that she wrote the note after she watched news about the war in Ukraine and "understood that everything is very scary, everything is very sad, and there are many dead", according to another news outlet, Mediazona.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | China to send special Envoy to Ukraine, Russia; to intensify Ukraine 'peace effort'</strong></p>

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<p>Russia had invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The Russian government has been hawkish about any opinion in the country against the war. The crackdown on dissent has been unseen since the Soviet era.</p>

<p>In a different case, a Russian government agency added Artur Smolyaninov to a list of "extremists and terrorists". A former consultant who advised the Ukrainian president's office was added to this list again.</p>

<p>In another case, a Russian military court sentenced a history teacher&nbsp;Nikita Tushkanov&nbsp;from Komi to five and a half&nbsp;years in prison. The sentence was handed for comments he made about explosion of the Kerch bridge which took place last year. Kerch bridge links Ukraine's Russia-annexed Crimean peninsula to mainland Russia.</p>

<p>Alexei Navalny, one of the most prominent critics of Vladimir Putin, is already in jail. He recently reported on Twitter that he had again been kept in solitary confinement punishment cell. He was released from one just days ago.</p>

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A 60-year-old Russian woman was given a two-year suspended sentence by a court on Thursday (May 11) for leaving a note at the grave of Russian President Vladimir Putin's parents saying that they had raised "a freak and a murderer", reported multiple news outlets.

A 60-year-old Russian woman was given a two-year suspended sentence by a court on Thursday (May 11) for leaving a note at the grave of Russian President Vladimir Putin's parents saying that they had raised "a freak and a murderer", reported multiple news outlets. The prosecutors had sought three-year suspended sentence for Irina Tsybaneva. She was charged with desecrating the grave in St Petersburg. The note referred Putin's mother and father as "the parents of a maniac". "Death to Putin, you raised a freak and a murderer," the note said, urging the deceased parents to "take him with you". According to SOTA news website, Tsybaneva will not appeal the verdict. Tsybaneva said that she wrote the note after she watched news about the war in Ukraine and "understood that everything is very scary, everything is very sad, and there are many dead", according to another news outlet, Mediazona. Watch | China to send special Envoy to Ukraine, Russia; to intensify Ukraine 'peace effort' × Russia had invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The Russian government has been hawkish about any opinion in the country against the war. The crackdown on dissent has been unseen since the Soviet era. In a different case, a Russian government agency added Artur Smolyaninov to a list of "extremists and terrorists". A former consultant who advised the Ukrainian president's office was added to this list again. In another case, a Russian military court sentenced a history teacher Nikita Tushkanov from Komi to five and a half years in prison. The sentence was handed for comments he made about explosion of the Kerch bridge which took place last year. Kerch bridge links Ukraine's Russia-annexed Crimean peninsula to mainland Russia. Alexei Navalny, one of the most prominent critics of Vladimir Putin, is already in jail. He recently reported on Twitter that he had again been kept in solitary confinement punishment cell. He was released from one just days ago. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

You raised a freak and murderer: Russian woman sentenced for note left at grave of Putin's parents

Victory Day was celebrated in all pomp and glory in Russia on May 9. It is one of the most important events for every former USSR nations. The day commemorates the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. As a matter of pride, all ex-Soviet Union nations celebrate it every year. However, this year, not each nation got a moment to mark this important event. Dozens of people were arrested for celebrating Victory Day in NATO nations.

Crackdown on Pro-Putin Victory Day celebrations in NATO countries

The sun has been shining in Moscow today for the high-profile event. Russia celebrated Victory Day with a parade on May 9. The day commemorates the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. The Russian military holds a parade at Moscow’s Red Square and in other cities to mark the event. One of the other anticipated parts of the parade was President Putin's speech. Addressing the crowd, Putin characterised the war against Ukraine as a war for Russia’s survival and future.

Putin addresses Victory Day parade at Red Square, says REAL WAR has been unleashed

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - Pakistan rangers arrest Imran Khan, Putin addresses Russia's Victory Day parade, Russia celebrates 78th Victory Day, Putin & Zaparov talk business.

Imran Khan arrested; Putin addresses Russia's 'Victory Day' parade

Russia commemorates its 78th Victory Day in Moscow. The day marks anniversary of the defeat of Nazi-Germany in 1945. Russian President Vladmir Putin who walked from the Kremlin to Red Square to address the ranks of military personnel present for the parade. For more details, watch the video.

'Proud of our special military operation', says Russian President Putin

Russian paramilitary group Wagner's chief on Saturday asked Moscow to let him hand over the Bakhmut positions to Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov.

Wagner chief asks Moscow to let him hand over Bakhmut positions to Chechen leader

A prominent Russian nationalist writer, Zakhar Prilepin, was wounded in a car bombing that killed his driver on Saturday and investigators said a detained suspect admitted acting on behalf of Ukraine.

Russia blames Ukraine for car bombing that injured pro-Putin novelist Zakhar Prilepin, killed driver

Russia's Wagner paramilitary, which has been at the forefront of the monthslong battle to capture Bakhmut, announced it shall withdraw from the region on May 10. Wagner founder Yevgeny Prigozhin said in a statement on Friday that the lack of ammunition was the reason for the withdrawal.

Russia's Wagner Group decides to withdraw from Bakhmut due to shortage of ammunition

<p>Russian president Vladimir Putin told Bill Clinton three years prior to his 2014 attack&nbsp;on Ukraine that he was not obligated by the Budapest Memorandum's guarantee of the nation's territorial integrity, according to the former US President.&nbsp;The disclosure&nbsp;raises concerns about whether the US and its European allies may have been better prepared for the attack in 2014 when Russia invaded the Donbas&nbsp;and annexed Crimea.</p>

<p>At the 2011 World Economic Forum in Davos, Clinton claimed to have spoken with the Russian president. During the discussion, Putin brought up the 1994 Memorandum,&nbsp;which required Ukraine, Belarus, and Kazakhstan to give up the nuclear arsenals they had received from the Soviet Union in exchange for assurance&nbsp;that their sovereignty would be respected "within existing borders."</p>

<p>Boris Yeltsin signed it on behalf of Russia, Bill Clinton on behalf of the US, and John Major on behalf of the UK, which served as a third guaranteeing country.</p>

<p>“Putin told me in 2011, three years before he took Crimea, that he did not agree with the agreement I made with Boris Yeltsin, that they would respect Ukraine’s territory if they gave up their nuclear weapons,” Clinton said on Thursday at a public discussion at&nbsp;92nd Street Y, a Jewish cultural and community centre in New York, as reported by the Guardian.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Putin said to me: ‘… I know Boris agreed to go along with you and John Major and Nato, but he never got it through the Duma [Russian parliament]. We have our extreme nationalists too. I don’t agree with it and I do not support it and I’m not bound by it," he added.</p>

<p>“I knew from that day forward, it was just a matter of time,” the former president added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Maidan revolution and the change in government in Kyiv earlier that year meant that Ukraine had become a different state, according to Putin, who asserted that Russia was not bound by the Budapest Memorandum after seizing Crimea in 2014.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In respect to this state, we have not signed any obligatory documents,” he said.</p>

<p>His meeting with Clinton, however, reveals that Putin had already made up his mind about severing the agreement years before the Maidan uprising.</p>

<h2><strong>Russian annexation of Crimea in 2014&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In February 2014, during the most catastrophic stages of the EuroMaidan Revolution that finally led to the ousting of Viktor Yanukovych, the pro-Russian former president of Ukraine, Russia invaded the Crimean Peninsula.</p>

<p>Around 30,000 Russian troops entered Crimea while Yanukovych's pro-Russian regime massacred protesters in central Kiev, and they took control of the peninsula by early March 2014.</p>

<p>In some ways, the event started Russia's ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Since then, the Russian military has kept control over Crimea.</p>

<p>With the exception of a small number of nations who are associated with Russia, many nations have publicly denounced the unlawful takeover of Crimea and continue to recognise it as being a part of Ukraine, as reported by the Kyiv Independent.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Russian president Vladimir Putin told Bill Clinton three years prior to his 2014 attack on Ukraine that he was not obligated by the Budapest Memorandum's guarantee of the nation's territorial integrity, according to the former US President.

Russian president Vladimir Putin told Bill Clinton three years prior to his 2014 attack on Ukraine that he was not obligated by the Budapest Memorandum's guarantee of the nation's territorial integrity, according to the former US President. The disclosure raises concerns about whether the US and its European allies may have been better prepared for the attack in 2014 when Russia invaded the Donbas and annexed Crimea. At the 2011 World Economic Forum in Davos, Clinton claimed to have spoken with the Russian president. During the discussion, Putin brought up the 1994 Memorandum, which required Ukraine, Belarus, and Kazakhstan to give up the nuclear arsenals they had received from the Soviet Union in exchange for assurance that their sovereignty would be respected "within existing borders." Boris Yeltsin signed it on behalf of Russia, Bill Clinton on behalf of the US, and John Major on behalf of the UK, which served as a third guaranteeing country. “Putin told me in 2011, three years before he took Crimea, that he did not agree with the agreement I made with Boris Yeltsin, that they would respect Ukraine’s territory if they gave up their nuclear weapons,” Clinton said on Thursday at a public discussion at 92nd Street Y, a Jewish cultural and community centre in New York, as reported by the Guardian. “Putin said to me: ‘… I know Boris agreed to go along with you and John Major and Nato, but he never got it through the Duma [Russian parliament]. We have our extreme nationalists too. I don’t agree with it and I do not support it and I’m not bound by it," he added. “I knew from that day forward, it was just a matter of time,” the former president added. The Maidan revolution and the change in government in Kyiv earlier that year meant that Ukraine had become a different state, according to Putin, who asserted that Russia was not bound by the Budapest Memorandum after seizing Crimea in 2014. “In respect to this state, we have not signed any obligatory documents,” he said. His meeting with Clinton, however, reveals that Putin had already made up his mind about severing the agreement years before the Maidan uprising. Russian annexation of Crimea in 2014 In February 2014, during the most catastrophic stages of the EuroMaidan Revolution that finally led to the ousting of Viktor Yanukovych, the pro-Russian former president of Ukraine, Russia invaded the Crimean Peninsula. Around 30,000 Russian troops entered Crimea while Yanukovych's pro-Russian regime massacred protesters in central Kiev, and they took control of the peninsula by early March 2014. In some ways, the event started Russia's ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Since then, the Russian military has kept control over Crimea. With the exception of a small number of nations who are associated with Russia, many nations have publicly denounced the unlawful takeover of Crimea and continue to recognise it as being a part of Ukraine, as reported by the Kyiv Independent. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

‘Just a matter of time’: Was Bill Clinton aware of Putin’s plan to invade Ukraine?

The United States on Thursday rejected Russia's “ludicrous” claim of being involved in the purported drone attack on the Kremlin, according to a report. “I would just tell you Mr. (Dmitry) Peskov's lying. I mean, it's obviously a ludicrous claim. The United States had nothing to do with this.

US rejects 'ludicrous' Russian claim it planned Kremlin drone attack

The Kremlin on Thursday accused the United States of playing the role of 'mastermind' in the drone attack which took place over the residence of Russian President Vladimir Putin and was claimed to have been carried out by Ukraine.

Russia calls US `mastermind` of drone attack in Kremlin

US rejects ‘ludicrous’ Russian claim it planned

The US has denied Russian claims it masterminded an alleged drone attack on the Kremlin on Wednesday aimed at assassinating President Vladimir Putin. A day after accusing Ukraine of carrying out the alleged attack, Mr Putin's spokesman said it had been done with Washington's support.

Russia claims US behind Ukraine drone attack on the Kremlin

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to pay a surprise visit to The Hague, home to the International Criminal Court, which has issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Zelensky defies threats of ‘elimination’ after Moscow claimed Ukraine tried to kill Putin

In a major news development, there has been a 'failed' assassination attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin, claims Russia. Russia said that two Ukrainian drones attacked Kremlin overnight and it downed the drones with no victims or material damage to the Kremlin.

Putin assassination attempt: Drones crash few kms from industrial park Putin was planning to visit

More than a year after Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of neighbouring Ukraine, in the battle zone things now could be heading for a change. So, are we on the brink of a new chapter in the Russia-Ukraine war?

Did Ukraine try to assassinate Russian President Putin?

After the alleged assassination attempt of the Russian President, Moscow says US was the mastermind behind the drone attack and Ukraine only does what it is told to do. But, both the US and Ukraine have rebuffed the claims made by Russia. So the mystery still remains who tried to assassinate Vladimir Putin.

The unsuccessful attempt to assassinate Russian President Putin

Russia says it downed two drones that targeted the Kremlin in Moscow last night and accused Ukraine of attempting to kill President Vladimir Putin.

Russia accuses Ukraine of Putin drone assassination attempt

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe- Russia accused Ukraine of attempting to kill President Vladimir Putin. It claimed it shot down two drones which were used in the alleged attack. Moscow also claimed that the US has played role of mastermind behind this deadly drone attack.

Plot to kill Putin: US mastermind behind deadly drone attack, says Moscow | WION Speed News

<p><strong>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky</strong> Thursday insisted that Russian leader Vladimir Putin must be brought to justice for his war crimes in Ukraine. Zelensky made this statement while delivering a speech at The Hague, where the International Criminal Court (ICC) is based. While referring to Putin, Zelensky said, “We all want to see a different Vladimir here in the Hague, the one who deserves to be sanctioned for his criminal actions here, in the capital of international law."</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;War at Ukraine: Russia opens probe into Kremlin attack | Russia-Ukraine War</strong></p>

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<p>“I'm sure we will see that happen when we win," he said, adding,&nbsp;"Whoever brings war must receive judgement."&nbsp;The ICC in March had issued an arrest warrant for Putin for allegedly deporting children from war-ravaged regions of Ukraine. On the flip side, Russia has rejected ICC’s allegations and jurisdiction over its conflict with Ukraine, which it prefers to call a “special military operation.”</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine not seeking NATO membership during war</strong></h2>

<p>Zelensky on Thursday clarified that his country will not join NATO during the war with Russia. "We are realistic, we know we will not be in NATO during the war," he said after meeting&nbsp;Dutch and Belgian Prime Ministers Mark Rutte and Alexander De Croo. He further added, "But we want a very clear message that we will be in NATO after the war."</p>

<h2><strong>Key points from Zelensky’s speech at The Hague</strong></h2>

<ol>
	<li>Zelensky again called for setting up a war tribunal to hold Russia accountable for its “war crimes” in Ukraine.</li>
	<li>Zelensky claimed that Russia committed 6,000 war crimes in April alone, which led to the death of at least 207 Ukrainian civilians, including children.</li>
	<li>He also thanked the Dutch leadership for its unwavering support of Ukraine and for supplying it with weapons. He reiterated that a war is won by “force of arms.”</li>
	<li>He referred to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as “the war we didn't want, the one we have to make the last - and we will do it"</li>
</ol>

<h2><strong>The speech comes in the backdrop of ‘Ukraine drone strike’ controversy</strong></h2>

<p>Zelensky delivered his speech in The Hague a day after Russia accused Ukraine of attempting to strike the Kremlin with its kamikaze drone. The Kremlin said it perceives the attack as an attempt on Putin’s life.</p>

<p>Russia's ex-president Dmitry Medvedev on Wednesday called for the “physical elimination” of Zelensky. The leader said, “After today's terrorist attack, there are no options left aside from the physical elimination of Zelensky and his cabal."</p>

<h2><strong>Russia accuses the US of masterminding the attack</strong></h2>

<p>The Kremlin on Thursday blamed the US for orchestrating the drone attack. The Kremlin said in a statement, "Decisions on such attacks are not made in Kyiv but in Washington. Kyiv only does what it is told to do."</p>

<p>Ukraine has denied its involvement in the attack, while some reports suggest that Russia could have staged this attack to use this as a pretext for the impending escalation.</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky meets with the ICC president</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Reuters reported that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with ICC President&nbsp;Piotr Hofmanski on Thursday in The Hague for talks. The details of the talks were not made public. This was Zelensky's first official visit to the Netherlands, and he spent under one hour at the ICC's headquarters.&nbsp;</p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky Thursday insisted that Russian leader Vladimir Putin must be brought to justice for his war crimes in Ukraine. Zelensky made this statement while delivering a speech at The Hague, where the International Criminal Court (ICC) is based.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky Thursday insisted that Russian leader Vladimir Putin must be brought to justice for his war crimes in Ukraine. Zelensky made this statement while delivering a speech at The Hague, where the International Criminal Court (ICC) is based. While referring to Putin, Zelensky said, “We all want to see a different Vladimir here in the Hague, the one who deserves to be sanctioned for his criminal actions here, in the capital of international law." Watch: War at Ukraine: Russia opens probe into Kremlin attack | Russia-Ukraine War × “I'm sure we will see that happen when we win," he said, adding, "Whoever brings war must receive judgement." The ICC in March had issued an arrest warrant for Putin for allegedly deporting children from war-ravaged regions of Ukraine. On the flip side, Russia has rejected ICC’s allegations and jurisdiction over its conflict with Ukraine, which it prefers to call a “special military operation.” Ukraine not seeking NATO membership during war Zelensky on Thursday clarified that his country will not join NATO during the war with Russia. "We are realistic, we know we will not be in NATO during the war," he said after meeting Dutch and Belgian Prime Ministers Mark Rutte and Alexander De Croo. He further added, "But we want a very clear message that we will be in NATO after the war." Key points from Zelensky’s speech at The Hague Zelensky again called for setting up a war tribunal to hold Russia accountable for its “war crimes” in Ukraine. Zelensky claimed that Russia committed 6,000 war crimes in April alone, which led to the death of at least 207 Ukrainian civilians, including children. He also thanked the Dutch leadership for its unwavering support of Ukraine and for supplying it with weapons. He reiterated that a war is won by “force of arms.” He referred to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as “the war we didn't want, the one we have to make the last - and we will do it" The speech comes in the backdrop of ‘Ukraine drone strike’ controversy Zelensky delivered his speech in The Hague a day after Russia accused Ukraine of attempting to strike the Kremlin with its kamikaze drone. The Kremlin said it perceives the attack as an attempt on Putin’s life. Russia's ex-president Dmitry Medvedev on Wednesday called for the “physical elimination” of Zelensky. The leader said, “After today's terrorist attack, there are no options left aside from the physical elimination of Zelensky and his cabal." Russia accuses the US of masterminding the attack The Kremlin on Thursday blamed the US for orchestrating the drone attack. The Kremlin said in a statement, "Decisions on such attacks are not made in Kyiv but in Washington. Kyiv only does what it is told to do." Ukraine has denied its involvement in the attack, while some reports suggest that Russia could have staged this attack to use this as a pretext for the impending escalation. Zelensky meets with the ICC president Meanwhile, Reuters reported that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with ICC President Piotr Hofmanski on Thursday in The Hague for talks. The details of the talks were not made public. This was Zelensky's first official visit to the Netherlands, and he spent under one hour at the ICC's headquarters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine will not join NATO during war, Zelensky says after meeting European leaders

Ukraine President Zelensky has denied that his country carried out alleged 'Drone attack' which Russia says was an attempt to kill Russian President Putin.

Russia alleges US planned Kremlin attack, Ukraine carries it

Russia on Wednesday opened a terrorism probe after Moscow said it shot down two drones aimed at President Vladimir Putin's residence and accused Ukraine of a "terrorist" assassination attempt.

Russia opens terrorism probe into Kremlin drone attack

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