Russian President Vladimir Putin is gearing up to give his official seal of approval for the annexation of captured regions of Ukraine on Friday (September 30). This will make Russia's annexation of four Ukrainian regions official from Russia's perspective. Russia does not yet fully control these regions but has carried out so-called referendums and even claimed&nbsp;victory.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
 
The United United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres, meanwhile, warned Russia against the move and said any decision to proceed with the annexation of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions of Ukraine would have no legal value and deserves to be condemned.

Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 this year. After sustained advances in the initial months, Russian forces were forced to retreat from large swathes of land as Ukrainian forces mounted a counter-attack.

The referendums carried out in the four regions have been rejected by Kiev and the West. US, UK and Canada have said that they will 'never recognise' the result of these 'sham' referendums.

Watch | Russia claims victory in Ukrainian territories, West calls Moscow's referendum votes as 'sham'

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When Putin gives formal approval, a legal step will have been taken to annex 15 per cent of Ukraine's territory. This would also signify Putin's intention of doubling down on his initially stated goals.

Washington and the European Union are set to impose additional sanctions on Russia over the plan, and even some of Russia's close traditional allies, such as Serbia and Kazakhstan, say they will not recognise the annexation.

"Any decision to proceed with the annexation of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions of Ukraine would have no legal value and deserves to be condemned," United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres told reporters.

The signing ceremony will be held in one of the Kremlin's grandest halls with the pro-Russian figures Moscow considers to be leaders of the four Ukrainian regions -- Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk and Luhansk. Russia says the referendums were genuine and show public support for the move.

After days of speculation over exactly how Russia would mark the annexation, Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed some details of the ceremony on Thursday.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-maps-accession-of-occupied-regions-of-ukraine-to-the-russian-federation-520752">In maps: This is how Ukraine will look like if Russia annexes occupied regions</a>

Agreements "on the accession of new territories into the Russian Federation" will be signed "with all four territories that held referendums and made corresponding requests to the Russian side," Peskov said. 
 
Putin will sign four "treaties of accession" in Moscow, and meet the Russian-installed leaders of Luhansk, Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia before a ceremony at the Kremlin.

“The signing ceremony of the treaties on new territories joining Russia will be held tomorrow at the Grand Kremlin Palace in St George’s Hall," Peskov said on Thursday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin is gearing up to give his official seal of approval for the annexation of captured regions of Ukraine on Friday (September 30). This will make Russia's annexation of four Ukrainian regions official from Russia's perspective.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is gearing up to give his official seal of approval for the annexation of captured regions of Ukraine on Friday (September 30). This will make Russia's annexation of four Ukrainian regions official from Russia's perspective. Russia does not yet fully control these regions but has carried out so-called referendums and even claimed victory. The United United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres, meanwhile, warned Russia against the move and said any decision to proceed with the annexation of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions of Ukraine would have no legal value and deserves to be condemned. Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 this year. After sustained advances in the initial months, Russian forces were forced to retreat from large swathes of land as Ukrainian forces mounted a counter-attack. The referendums carried out in the four regions have been rejected by Kiev and the West. US, UK and Canada have said that they will 'never recognise' the result of these 'sham' referendums. Watch | Russia claims victory in Ukrainian territories, West calls Moscow's referendum votes as 'sham' × When Putin gives formal approval, a legal step will have been taken to annex 15 per cent of Ukraine's territory. This would also signify Putin's intention of doubling down on his initially stated goals. Washington and the European Union are set to impose additional sanctions on Russia over the plan, and even some of Russia's close traditional allies, such as Serbia and Kazakhstan, say they will not recognise the annexation. "Any decision to proceed with the annexation of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions of Ukraine would have no legal value and deserves to be condemned," United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres told reporters. The signing ceremony will be held in one of the Kremlin's grandest halls with the pro-Russian figures Moscow considers to be leaders of the four Ukrainian regions -- Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk and Luhansk. Russia says the referendums were genuine and show public support for the move. After days of speculation over exactly how Russia would mark the annexation, Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed some details of the ceremony on Thursday. Also Read | In maps: This is how Ukraine will look like if Russia annexes occupied regions Agreements "on the accession of new territories into the Russian Federation" will be signed "with all four territories that held referendums and made corresponding requests to the Russian side," Peskov said. Putin will sign four "treaties of accession" in Moscow, and meet the Russian-installed leaders of Luhansk, Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia before a ceremony at the Kremlin. “The signing ceremony of the treaties on new territories joining Russia will be held tomorrow at the Grand Kremlin Palace in St George’s Hall," Peskov said on Thursday. (With inputs from agencies) 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 ×

Putin to formalise post-vote annexation of Ukraine territory, UN warns against ‘illegal’ move

Denmark's armed forces on Tuesday released a video showing bubbles rushing to the surface of the Baltic Sea above the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines, and said the largest gas leak had caused surface disturbance of well over 1 kilometre in diameter.

Bubbles churning sea surface off Danish coast after a leakage in Nord Stream pipelines

A group of new recruits waved goodbye to their relatives on Tuesday in Crimea before being sent to military bases amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Recruits wave goodbye to their family in Crimea as they depart for military bases

The Kremlin has granted Russian citizenship to US whistleblower Edward Snowden. He's enjoyed refuge in the country since 2013 after he leaked documents relating to the US National Security Agency's top secret operations including the telephone surveillance of millions of American citizens.

Putin grants citizenship to Edward Snowden; exposed surveillance by NSA

US whistleblower has been granted Russian citizenship by President Vladimir Putin. We look at his journey and how he ended up in Russia.

WION Fineprint | US whistleblower Edward Snowden has been granted Russian citizenship

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on Monday granting Russian citizenship to the US whistleblower Edward Snowden.

President Putin grants Russian citizenship to US whistleblower Edward Snowden

Days after following the announcement of Russian President Vladimir Putin's order to mobilise thousands of Russians for the conflict in Ukraine, Russian men are now finding their way to Georgia to avoid being called up for a fight they do not support. However, there are no clear calculations to define how many Russians have left the country.&nbsp;

As per Russian media and local officials, the projected wait time to enter Georgia at one point on Sunday is 48 hours, and now over 3,000 vehicles are lined up to cross the border. The official statistics stated that till now, Tbilisi, Georgia's capital, has witnessed an influx of approximately 40,000 Russians.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-partial-military-mobilisation-exactly-518528">Also read |&nbsp;What is partial military mobilisation exactly?</a>

In conversation with Reuters, Dmitry Kuriliyunok, an army reservist, said that as soon as they found out about mobilisation, they left everything behind and rushed to the car, driving from Krasnodar to Mineralnye Vody, where they, along with his wife and daughter, arrived in Tbilisi a day later.

He said, "We are completely against this war. For us, like for others, it's scary. To die and to kill others, and for what? We don't understand. Therefore, we decided to flee," Reuters reported.

Not just now, a few Russians flew to neighbouring countries months or days before the announcement of mobilisation came due to their dismay over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-full-day-of-mobilisation-in-russia-marked-by-tears-and-protests-reports-suggest-100-conscription-518945">Also read |&nbsp;First full day of mobilisation in Russia marked by tears and protests, reports suggest 100% conscription</a>

However, the influx of newcomers to Tbilisi poses a risk of reigniting simmering anti-Russian sentiment among Georgia's locals.&nbsp;

In Tbilisi, several shops, museums, and other infrastructural properties were plastered with Ukrainian flags. Locals demanded Russians go back home as they believed everything was normal for them, but now as they are being forced to get involved in the war, they are now protesting.

Border crossings with Kazakhstan, Finland, and Mongolia have also reported similar migrations to those at the Russia-Georgia border.&nbsp;

Currently, there are either no seats available on flights leaving from Moscow, or if there are, the tickets are at extremely expensive prices.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Days after following the announcement of Russian President Vladimir Putin's order to mobilise thousands of Russians for the conflict in Ukraine, Russian men are now finding their way to Georgia to avoid being called up for a fight they do not support.

Days after following the announcement of Russian President Vladimir Putin's order to mobilise thousands of Russians for the conflict in Ukraine, Russian men are now finding their way to Georgia to avoid being called up for a fight they do not support. However, there are no clear calculations to define how many Russians have left the country. As per Russian media and local officials, the projected wait time to enter Georgia at one point on Sunday is 48 hours, and now over 3,000 vehicles are lined up to cross the border. The official statistics stated that till now, Tbilisi, Georgia's capital, has witnessed an influx of approximately 40,000 Russians. Also read | What is partial military mobilisation exactly? In conversation with Reuters, Dmitry Kuriliyunok, an army reservist, said that as soon as they found out about mobilisation, they left everything behind and rushed to the car, driving from Krasnodar to Mineralnye Vody, where they, along with his wife and daughter, arrived in Tbilisi a day later. He said, "We are completely against this war. For us, like for others, it's scary. To die and to kill others, and for what? We don't understand. Therefore, we decided to flee," Reuters reported. Not just now, a few Russians flew to neighbouring countries months or days before the announcement of mobilisation came due to their dismay over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Also read | First full day of mobilisation in Russia marked by tears and protests, reports suggest 100% conscription However, the influx of newcomers to Tbilisi poses a risk of reigniting simmering anti-Russian sentiment among Georgia's locals. In Tbilisi, several shops, museums, and other infrastructural properties were plastered with Ukrainian flags. Locals demanded Russians go back home as they believed everything was normal for them, but now as they are being forced to get involved in the war, they are now protesting. Border crossings with Kazakhstan, Finland, and Mongolia have also reported similar migrations to those at the Russia-Georgia border. Currently, there are either no seats available on flights leaving from Moscow, or if there are, the tickets are at extremely expensive prices. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Thousands of Russians flee to Georgia amid Putin's mobilisation announcement

Nearly 2,900 reservists and volunteers from Estonia, a neighbour of Russia, are participating in a six-day snap exercise as an apparent counter-move to Moscow's announcement of a partial military call-up last week.

Russia's neighbour Estonia is conducting a six-day snap military exercise

At the Russia-Georgia border crossing in Nizhny Lars, in Russia's North Osettia-Alania Republic, cars stand in a three-day long traffic jam, waiting to cross the border into Georgia.

Cars queue for three days, others cross on foot at Russia-Georgia border

The war in Ukraine has started taking new dimensions. Just as the world thought Ukraine has turned the tide, Russia's President Vladimir Putin hit back with his next move.

Ukraine: Putin orders mobilisation of 300,00 additional troops, 10-year prison for refusal to fight

In the wake of a stunning counteroffensive in which Ukrainian forces reclaimed thousands of square miles of territory, Russia is uneasy.

The country’s political talk shows, usually so deferential, have given the floor to more critical voices. Opponents of the war have weighed in — about 40 officials from municipal councils signed a petition requesting the president’s resignation — and previously loyal figures have begun to mutter about the regime’s failings. In a sign of general discontent, Alla Pugacheva, Russia’s most famous 20th-century pop star, has come out against the war. Six months of consensus has started to crack.

That consensus wasn’t as cast-iron as it might have seemed. While many Western observers tend to view the Russian regime as a monolith, the reality is more complex. Though the war has significantly reduced the scope for dissent, there are still several competing ideological camps within the ruling elite capable of making their voices heard. For example, the so-called systemic liberals, mostly concentrated in state financial institutions and among oligarchs, have expressed concerns about the war’s consequences for the Russian economy. But it is another group, emboldened by the Kremlin’s failure to deliver victory in Ukraine, that is putting ever more pressure on the regime.

Watch | I avoid answering your question: Sergey Lavrov on question of Chinese pressure to end war

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Call it the party of war. Made up of the security agencies, the Defense Ministry and outspoken media and political figures, it encompasses the entire radical nationalist ecosystem — and its adherents have been mounting a sustained critique of the Kremlin’s handling of the war in Ukraine. Powerful, well positioned and ideologically committed, they want a much more aggressive war effort. And judging from Mr. Putin’s address on Wednesday — where he announced the call-up of roughly 300,000 troops, gave his support to referendums in the four occupied regions of Ukraine on joining Russia and repeated the threat of nuclear escalation — they seem to be getting their way.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/a-cornered-putin-is-more-dangerous-than-ever-518530">A cornered Putin is more dangerous than ever</a>

The party of war has been very vocal since April, when it became clear that the Russian Army was unable to conquer Kyiv and overthrow the Zelensky government. Moscow’s more modest goal — conquering the Donbas and securing a land bridge to annexed Crimea — appeared to be an intolerable retrenchment. Throughout, Russia’s hawks have benefited from an unexpected sounding board: the many Telegram channels, some of which have up to one million followers, run by war journalists embedded with the Russian Army. In a stream of constant commentary, the channels criticize the government’s indecisiveness and call for a full-scale conquest of Ukraine and the mass mobilization of the Russian population.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/will-ukrainian-battlefield-successes-kill-nuclear-deterrence-517466">Will Ukrainian battlefield successes kill nuclear deterrence?</a>

Through the summer, the level of criticism was manageable for the regime. But things began to change in August, when Darya Dugina, the daughter of one of Russia’s best-known imperial ideologists, Alexander Dugin, was assassinated in Moscow. The perpetrators and purpose of the attack are unknown. But the effect was clear. By bringing the conflict into one of the capital’s fanciest neighborhoods, the murder confirmed the hawks’ dim view of the war effort. Since Ms. Dugina’s death, the party of war has been using her “martyrdom” to renew calls for a full-scale war in overtly eschatological tones.

The military reversal of recent weeks has played into their hands. The infamous Chechen head of state, Ramzan Kadyrov, has called for “self-mobilization,” inviting regional elites to recruit at least 1,000 citizens each, raising about 85,000 new troops in total. The Communist Party leader Gennady Zyuganov, another key figure on the nationalist right, called for a “maximum mobilization of forces and resources” and for the Kremlin to refer to the conflict as a war, rather than a “special operation.” And Yevgeny Prigozhin, the de facto head of a shadowy mercenary outfit known as the Wagner Group, has been recruiting prisoners to be sent to the front.

Their criticism has clearly cut through. While stopping short of mass conscription, Mr. Putin’s “partial mobilization,” as he put it, of some 300,000 troops is a major boost for the party of war. Likewise, plans to hold referendums in Ukraine’s occupied territories — Donetsk and Luhansk in the east, Kherson and Zaporizka in the south — are designed to redraw the terms of the conflict, in ways congenial to the president’s hawkish critics. There are signs too that Mr. Putin may escalate domestically, turning even more to repression.

The administration, for example, is stepping up indoctrination for schoolchildren and has instituted new restrictions on supposedly pernicious content in art. The security services, for their part, are laser-focused on stamping out dissent, arresting and jailing any form of opposition. In universities, students and professors are under growing pressure to cut links with their Western counterparts. Already extensive, these efforts could be pursued yet more doggedly, dragging many more Russians into the dragnet.

Such an approach is not without its risks. Among citizens, interest in the war and the accompanying rally-around-the-flag effect are waning. More intense repression coupled with an encroaching sense of the war’s human costs, as more of the country’s men are drawn into service, could turn them off it entirely. Young and educated Russians may leave the country in greater numbers than they already have.

There’s also no assurance that hard-liners in the ruling elite will accept domestic repression as a substitute for military success abroad — or that the influx of troops will substantially alter the dynamics on the battlefield. With an overdrawn and exhausted army, Mr. Putin must still find a way to deliver a military result that can be framed as at least a partial victory. It doesn’t help that the country’s major backers, China and India, have begun to voice concerns.

Even amid such difficulties, it would be a mistake to foresee a collapse of the regime, ensconced for two decades. But Mr. Putin, like any leader, depends on legitimacy to ensure his rule. And in the weeks and months ahead, he may discover that the ground beneath his feet has started to shift.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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In the wake of a stunning counteroffensive in which Ukrainian forces reclaimed thousands of square miles of territory, Russia is uneasy. The country’s political talk shows, usually so deferential, have given the floor to more critical voices.

In the wake of a stunning counteroffensive in which Ukrainian forces reclaimed thousands of square miles of territory, Russia is uneasy. The country’s political talk shows, usually so deferential, have given the floor to more critical voices. Opponents of the war have weighed in — about 40 officials from municipal councils signed a petition requesting the president’s resignation — and previously loyal figures have begun to mutter about the regime’s failings. In a sign of general discontent, Alla Pugacheva, Russia’s most famous 20th-century pop star, has come out against the war. Six months of consensus has started to crack. That consensus wasn’t as cast-iron as it might have seemed. While many Western observers tend to view the Russian regime as a monolith, the reality is more complex. Though the war has significantly reduced the scope for dissent, there are still several competing ideological camps within the ruling elite capable of making their voices heard. For example, the so-called systemic liberals, mostly concentrated in state financial institutions and among oligarchs, have expressed concerns about the war’s consequences for the Russian economy. But it is another group, emboldened by the Kremlin’s failure to deliver victory in Ukraine, that is putting ever more pressure on the regime. Watch | I avoid answering your question: Sergey Lavrov on question of Chinese pressure to end war × Call it the party of war. Made up of the security agencies, the Defense Ministry and outspoken media and political figures, it encompasses the entire radical nationalist ecosystem — and its adherents have been mounting a sustained critique of the Kremlin’s handling of the war in Ukraine. Powerful, well positioned and ideologically committed, they want a much more aggressive war effort. And judging from Mr. Putin’s address on Wednesday — where he announced the call-up of roughly 300,000 troops, gave his support to referendums in the four occupied regions of Ukraine on joining Russia and repeated the threat of nuclear escalation — they seem to be getting their way. Also Read | A cornered Putin is more dangerous than ever The party of war has been very vocal since April, when it became clear that the Russian Army was unable to conquer Kyiv and overthrow the Zelensky government. Moscow’s more modest goal — conquering the Donbas and securing a land bridge to annexed Crimea — appeared to be an intolerable retrenchment. Throughout, Russia’s hawks have benefited from an unexpected sounding board: the many Telegram channels, some of which have up to one million followers, run by war journalists embedded with the Russian Army. In a stream of constant commentary, the channels criticize the government’s indecisiveness and call for a full-scale conquest of Ukraine and the mass mobilization of the Russian population. Also Read | Will Ukrainian battlefield successes kill nuclear deterrence? Through the summer, the level of criticism was manageable for the regime. But things began to change in August, when Darya Dugina, the daughter of one of Russia’s best-known imperial ideologists, Alexander Dugin, was assassinated in Moscow. The perpetrators and purpose of the attack are unknown. But the effect was clear. By bringing the conflict into one of the capital’s fanciest neighborhoods, the murder confirmed the hawks’ dim view of the war effort. Since Ms. Dugina’s death, the party of war has been using her “martyrdom” to renew calls for a full-scale war in overtly eschatological tones. The military reversal of recent weeks has played into their hands. The infamous Chechen head of state, Ramzan Kadyrov, has called for “self-mobilization,” inviting regional elites to recruit at least 1,000 citizens each, raising about 85,000 new troops in total. The Communist Party leader Gennady Zyuganov, another key figure on the nationalist right, called for a “maximum mobilization of forces and resources” and for the Kremlin to refer to the conflict as a war, rather than a “special operation.” And Yevgeny Prigozhin, the de facto head of a shadowy mercenary outfit known as the Wagner Group, has been recruiting prisoners to be sent to the front. Their criticism has clearly cut through. While stopping short of mass conscription, Mr. Putin’s “partial mobilization,” as he put it, of some 300,000 troops is a major boost for the party of war. Likewise, plans to hold referendums in Ukraine’s occupied territories — Donetsk and Luhansk in the east, Kherson and Zaporizka in the south — are designed to redraw the terms of the conflict, in ways congenial to the president’s hawkish critics. There are signs too that Mr. Putin may escalate domestically, turning even more to repression. The administration, for example, is stepping up indoctrination for schoolchildren and has instituted new restrictions on supposedly pernicious content in art. The security services, for their part, are laser-focused on stamping out dissent, arresting and jailing any form of opposition. In universities, students and professors are under growing pressure to cut links with their Western counterparts. Already extensive, these efforts could be pursued yet more doggedly, dragging many more Russians into the dragnet. Such an approach is not without its risks. Among citizens, interest in the war and the accompanying rally-around-the-flag effect are waning. More intense repression coupled with an encroaching sense of the war’s human costs, as more of the country’s men are drawn into service, could turn them off it entirely. Young and educated Russians may leave the country in greater numbers than they already have. There’s also no assurance that hard-liners in the ruling elite will accept domestic repression as a substitute for military success abroad — or that the influx of troops will substantially alter the dynamics on the battlefield. With an overdrawn and exhausted army, Mr. Putin must still find a way to deliver a military result that can be framed as at least a partial victory. It doesn’t help that the country’s major backers, China and India, have begun to voice concerns. Even amid such difficulties, it would be a mistake to foresee a collapse of the regime, ensconced for two decades. But Mr. Putin, like any leader, depends on legitimacy to ensure his rule. And in the weeks and months ahead, he may discover that the ground beneath his feet has started to shift. 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 ×

Putin is in trouble

A report by Bloomberg indicated that Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to exceed the next two years’ initial budget estimates as he plans to add more than 43% to the category related to defence while an additional 40% to law enforcement and national security. This comes amid the country’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and this increase is seen as an attempt to tailor Moscow’s budget for a long and increasingly expensive war.&nbsp;

Reportedly, Russia’s three-year fiscal plan is prioritising the military and moving away from categories like environmental protection, with a minimum increase in sectors like education and culture for 2023. Meanwhile, at least 5 trillion rubles ($84 billion) which is nearly 3.3% of the country’s GDP is being dedicated to “national defence”.&nbsp;

According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), a think tank that tracks the global arms industry, Russia’s “national defence” line in the budget accounts for three-quarters of its total military expenditure and includes for operations and arms procurement. Meanwhile, Putin plans on spending a quarter less than the 0.2% GDP on the environment which was estimated earlier. On the other hand, the defence budget which was to decrease to 2.4% of GDP, from an estimated 3.2% in 2022 and 2.6% in 2021, said the Bloomberg report.&nbsp;

They further indicated that only overall figures were made public while the details of this increased military remain classified. The budget plan reportedly assigns the cost of the call-up to at least 16 billion rubles in 2023 and up to 16.5 billion rubles annually in 2024-2025.&nbsp;

This shift shows that Putin is set to escalate his efforts after a major setback faced in Ukraine as he also called for the “partial mobilisation” and drafted at least 300,000 more soldiers who are currently reservists in the Russian army.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraine-claims-6000-sq-km-retaken-from-russia-515873">Gravitas: Ukraine claims 6,000 sq km retaken from Russia</a>

SIPRI also indicated that Russia was one of the biggest spenders on defence last year and estimated that the country boosted its expenditure on the military in 2021 by 2.9% to $65.9 billion. This was straying away from the previous declines noted between 2016 and 2019 and indicated a third straight year of growth.&nbsp;

Reportedly, the budget was approved on Thursday by the government and is supposed by the two houses of parliament after which it will be signed by Putin to become law. The report also estimated a budget deficit of 2% next year, from 0.9% this year. The government also plans on borrowing up to $1 billion annually in foreign currencies, said the report.&nbsp;

 
Putin’s move to invade Ukraine has severely affected Russia’s economy, as, amid international sanctions, this diversion of resources and manpower to the military can worsen the recession in Moscow. This comes as the labour market is already stretched by poor demographics and with unemployment at an all-time low, says the report.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/partial-military-mobilisation-in-russia-has-markets-on-alert-518418">Partial military mobilisation in Russia announcement makes oil, defence stocks surge</a>

According to the budget, Moscow’s pipeline gas exports are set to drop by at least 40% between 2023 and 2025, given its stand-off with the rest of Europe, while crude shipments will see some improvement. Notably, the government’s balance sheet has managed to survive well amid the crisis, which the report has attributed to the country’s windfall earnings from the higher cost of commodities.&nbsp;

The budget has also allocated additional money for “patriotic education,” which aims to include history exhibits and equip schools with state symbols. Meanwhile, the defence budget is also set to go up by almost 30% in 2024 but is reportedly still in line with the projections for 2025.&nbsp;

A report by Bloomberg indicated that Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to exceed the next two years’ initial budget estimates as he plans to add more than 43% to the category related to defence while an additional 40% to law enforcement and national security.

A report by Bloomberg indicated that Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to exceed the next two years’ initial budget estimates as he plans to add more than 43% to the category related to defence while an additional 40% to law enforcement and national security. This comes amid the country’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and this increase is seen as an attempt to tailor Moscow’s budget for a long and increasingly expensive war. Reportedly, Russia’s three-year fiscal plan is prioritising the military and moving away from categories like environmental protection, with a minimum increase in sectors like education and culture for 2023. Meanwhile, at least 5 trillion rubles ($84 billion) which is nearly 3.3% of the country’s GDP is being dedicated to “national defence”. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), a think tank that tracks the global arms industry, Russia’s “national defence” line in the budget accounts for three-quarters of its total military expenditure and includes for operations and arms procurement. Meanwhile, Putin plans on spending a quarter less than the 0.2% GDP on the environment which was estimated earlier. On the other hand, the defence budget which was to decrease to 2.4% of GDP, from an estimated 3.2% in 2022 and 2.6% in 2021, said the Bloomberg report. They further indicated that only overall figures were made public while the details of this increased military remain classified. The budget plan reportedly assigns the cost of the call-up to at least 16 billion rubles in 2023 and up to 16.5 billion rubles annually in 2024-2025. This shift shows that Putin is set to escalate his efforts after a major setback faced in Ukraine as he also called for the “partial mobilisation” and drafted at least 300,000 more soldiers who are currently reservists in the Russian army. ALSO WATCH: Gravitas: Ukraine claims 6,000 sq km retaken from Russia SIPRI also indicated that Russia was one of the biggest spenders on defence last year and estimated that the country boosted its expenditure on the military in 2021 by 2.9% to $65.9 billion. This was straying away from the previous declines noted between 2016 and 2019 and indicated a third straight year of growth. Reportedly, the budget was approved on Thursday by the government and is supposed by the two houses of parliament after which it will be signed by Putin to become law. The report also estimated a budget deficit of 2% next year, from 0.9% this year. The government also plans on borrowing up to $1 billion annually in foreign currencies, said the report. Putin’s move to invade Ukraine has severely affected Russia’s economy, as, amid international sanctions, this diversion of resources and manpower to the military can worsen the recession in Moscow. This comes as the labour market is already stretched by poor demographics and with unemployment at an all-time low, says the report. ALSO READ: Partial military mobilisation in Russia announcement makes oil, defence stocks surge According to the budget, Moscow’s pipeline gas exports are set to drop by at least 40% between 2023 and 2025, given its stand-off with the rest of Europe, while crude shipments will see some improvement. Notably, the government’s balance sheet has managed to survive well amid the crisis, which the report has attributed to the country’s windfall earnings from the higher cost of commodities. The budget has also allocated additional money for “patriotic education,” which aims to include history exhibits and equip schools with state symbols. Meanwhile, the defence budget is also set to go up by almost 30% in 2024 but is reportedly still in line with the projections for 2025.

Report: Putin to increase expenditure on defence and police, amid war in Ukraine

Ukraine Defence Ministry has released a video & claimed that incendiary bombs rained down on a Ukrainian village amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Ukraine Defence Ministry releases video & claims incendiary bombs rained down on Ukrainian village

President Putin has ordered a partial mobilisation for the Ukraine war, and the world has not been calm ever since because this is just like a formal declaration of war on Ukraine. The last time Russia made such a move was over 77 years ago…during the second World War. But what is mobilisation, what’s partial mobilisation and what can it mean for the world?

What is military mobilisation?

Military mobilisation is basically when a nation assembles and readies military troops and supplies for war. If a country has ordered a mobilisation, it is organising its armed forces for active military service. The last time Russia had ordered a general mobilisation, anyone who was 19 years old was obliged to join the Soviet Army. Those who were 18 were eligible to volunteer.&nbsp;

What is partial mobilisation?

Currently, Putin has ordered a partial mobilisation which means that only a certain percentage of Russia’s potential fighters will be asked to join the offensive on Ukraine. As of now, Putin has signed a decree that will see 300,000 reservists who will be called to fight in Ukraine out of approximately 25 million potential fighters at Moscow's disposal.

WATCH |&nbsp;What is mobilisation? | Why is Russia resorting to partial mobilisation?&nbsp;

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What’s the difference?

While mobilisations have been carried out in different ways by different nations, generally a full mobilisation would have meant that any military-aged man, ranging from 18 to 60-years-old, could not leave Russia and would need to join the military.&nbsp;

As of now, Putin stressed on partial mobilisation which means only those citizens would be mobilised who are currently in the reserves or those who have served in the armed forces or have military skills and relevant experience. Russian citizens from 18 and 50 fall under the partial military mobilisation.

The world has reacted sharply. Just hours after Putin's announcement, US President Joe Biden took to the podium in the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and accused Putin of &nbsp;'shamelessly violating' the UN charter.&nbsp;

Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24. After several months of sustained retreat, Ukrainian forces have been recently able to mount a counter-offensive and retake some territory from the Russian forces. This is why Putin's call for partial mobilisation is being seen by many as a desperate move to make up for recent defeats on the battlefield.

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President Putin has ordered a partial mobilisation for the Ukraine war, and the world has not been calm ever since because this is just like a formal declaration of war on Ukraine.

President Putin has ordered a partial mobilisation for the Ukraine war, and the world has not been calm ever since because this is just like a formal declaration of war on Ukraine. The last time Russia made such a move was over 77 years ago…during the second World War. But what is mobilisation, what’s partial mobilisation and what can it mean for the world? What is military mobilisation? Military mobilisation is basically when a nation assembles and readies military troops and supplies for war. If a country has ordered a mobilisation, it is organising its armed forces for active military service. The last time Russia had ordered a general mobilisation, anyone who was 19 years old was obliged to join the Soviet Army. Those who were 18 were eligible to volunteer. What is partial mobilisation? Currently, Putin has ordered a partial mobilisation which means that only a certain percentage of Russia’s potential fighters will be asked to join the offensive on Ukraine. As of now, Putin has signed a decree that will see 300,000 reservists who will be called to fight in Ukraine out of approximately 25 million potential fighters at Moscow's disposal. WATCH | What is mobilisation? | Why is Russia resorting to partial mobilisation? × What’s the difference? While mobilisations have been carried out in different ways by different nations, generally a full mobilisation would have meant that any military-aged man, ranging from 18 to 60-years-old, could not leave Russia and would need to join the military. As of now, Putin stressed on partial mobilisation which means only those citizens would be mobilised who are currently in the reserves or those who have served in the armed forces or have military skills and relevant experience. Russian citizens from 18 and 50 fall under the partial military mobilisation. The world has reacted sharply. Just hours after Putin's announcement, US President Joe Biden took to the podium in the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and accused Putin of 'shamelessly violating' the UN charter. Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24. After several months of sustained retreat, Ukrainian forces have been recently able to mount a counter-offensive and retake some territory from the Russian forces. This is why Putin's call for partial mobilisation is being seen by many as a desperate move to make up for recent defeats on the battlefield. 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 ×

What is partial military mobilisation exactly?

Russia President Vladimir Putin has ordered a partial mobilisation for the Ukraine war, and the world has not been calm ever since. But what is mobilisation? What’s partial mobilisation? Why has Russia decided to do this after seven months of the invasion in Ukraine?

What is mobilisation? | Why is Russia resorting to partial mobilisation?

Russia President Vladimir Putin has ordered a partial mobilization for the Ukraine war, and the world has not been calm ever since. But what is mobilisation? What’s partial mobilisation? Why has Russia decided to do this after seven months of the invasion in Ukraine? Here’s all you need to know

What is Mobilisation? | Why is Russia resorting to partial mobilisation

Russia has started its mandatory troop call-up support its military campaign in Ukraine with Moscow saying that at least 10,000 people have volunteered to join the forces to fight in 24 hours since the order even as many have fled the country to escape the fight.

Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky slams Putin's mobilisation call

In a significant development, Germany has said that it is ready to take in Russians fleeing from partial mobilisation ordered by Russian President Vladmir Putin. Germany's interior minister Nancy Faeser confirmed this in an interview to German newspaper Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung.&nbsp;

"Deserters threatened with serious repression can as a rule obtain international protection in Germany," the minister said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (September 21) ordered partial military mobilisation in Russia to help the country's Ukraine war effort.

Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24. After months of sustained advances, Russian forces have had to retreat in recent weeks. Ukrainian forces have been able to recapture territory from Russian forces in the eastern part of the country.

Watch | Russians fleeing after Putin's call for partial mobilisation amid Ukraine war

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Germany's justice minister Marco Buschmann tweeted with a hashtag "partial mobilisation" saying that "apparently, many Russians are leaving their homeland -- anyone who hates Putin's path and loves liberal democracy is welcome in Germany".

Kremlin has sought to counter claims and reports of Russian men fleeing the mobilisation. Kremlin said that such reports were "exaggerated".

"The information about the hype at airports and so on is very much exaggerated ... There is a lot of fake information about this. We need to be very careful about this so as not to become a victim of false information on this matter," said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov as quoted by Reuters.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/concerned-russians-trying-to-escape-putins-ukraine-war-call-up-to-avoid-conscription-518766">Fly out, run to border, search self-harm: How Russians are trying to evade Putin's conscription call</a>

Reuters also reported that after Putin ordered partial military mobilisation, tickets on outgoing flights from Russia to neighbouring countries are fast being sold.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a significant development, Germany has said that it is ready to take in Russians fleeing from partial mobilisation ordered by Russian President Vladmir Putin.

In a significant development, Germany has said that it is ready to take in Russians fleeing from partial mobilisation ordered by Russian President Vladmir Putin. Germany's interior minister Nancy Faeser confirmed this in an interview to German newspaper Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung. "Deserters threatened with serious repression can as a rule obtain international protection in Germany," the minister said. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (September 21) ordered partial military mobilisation in Russia to help the country's Ukraine war effort. Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24. After months of sustained advances, Russian forces have had to retreat in recent weeks. Ukrainian forces have been able to recapture territory from Russian forces in the eastern part of the country. Watch | Russians fleeing after Putin's call for partial mobilisation amid Ukraine war × Germany's justice minister Marco Buschmann tweeted with a hashtag "partial mobilisation" saying that "apparently, many Russians are leaving their homeland -- anyone who hates Putin's path and loves liberal democracy is welcome in Germany". Kremlin has sought to counter claims and reports of Russian men fleeing the mobilisation. Kremlin said that such reports were "exaggerated". "The information about the hype at airports and so on is very much exaggerated ... There is a lot of fake information about this. We need to be very careful about this so as not to become a victim of false information on this matter," said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov as quoted by Reuters. Also Read | Fly out, run to border, search self-harm: How Russians are trying to evade Putin's conscription call Reuters also reported that after Putin ordered partial military mobilisation, tickets on outgoing flights from Russia to neighbouring countries are fast being sold. (With inputs from agencies) 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 ×

Germany says ready to take Russians fleeing to evade conscription for partial mobilisation

Russia has decided to mobilise an additional 300,000 troops for the war in Ukraine. In an address to the nation, Russian President Vladimir Putin made a thinly veiled threat to use nuclear weapons. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Vladimir Putin issues nuclear threat, plans Ukraine escalation

Joe Biden used his address at the 77th UN General Assembly to criticize Russia's war on Ukraine. He blamed 'one man' for the 'unprovoked aggression' on Ukraine. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Joe Biden uses UNGA address to attack Putin

Eyewitness video shows large queues of vehicles at the Zemo Larsi/Verkhny Lars checkpoint on the Georgia-Russia border after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a partial mobilisation in Russia.

Russians fleeing after Putin's call for partial mobilisation amid Ukraine war

Weeks after the United States claimed Moscow was turning to Pyongyang to refill its inventories depleted by invading Ukraine, North Korea on Wednesday denied transferring arms to Russia, according to official media.

"We have never exported weapons or ammunition to Russia before and we will not plan to export them," an official at the defence ministry's General Bureau of Equipment said in a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).&nbsp;

The declaration follows the White House's previous September claim that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/a-cornered-putin-is-more-dangerous-than-ever-518530">Russia</a> was acquiring rockets and artillery from communist North Korea to help its conflict in Ukraine.

According to John Kirby, a spokesman for the National Security Council, American acquisitions "may encompass literally millions of rounds, rockets, and artillery shells."

He emphasised at the time that the acquisitions had not yet been made and that there was no proof the weapons were being utilised in Ukraine, citing declassified US intelligence.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelenskiy-at-unga-we-demand-just-punishment-for-russian-crimes-518559">Zelenskiy at UNGA: We demand 'just punishment' for Russian crimes</a>

Using the official abbreviation for North <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/korean-cinematic-rise-years-in-the-making-says-squid-game-star-lee-jung-jae-517046">Korea</a>, Pyongyang, a close ally of Moscow, lashed out at the United States in the statement, claiming that it and "other hostile forces" were "spreading a 'rumour of arms deals' between the DPRK and Russia."

We warn the US to stop making reckless remarks," it said, while emphasising North Korea maintains the right to export military equipment.&nbsp;

The purchase of artillery ammunition from the isolated North Korean government and an agreement to purchase military drones from Iran, according to the White House, demonstrated Russia's dire financial situation following months of Western economic and technological sanctions intended to stymie its war machine.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Weeks after the United States claimed Moscow was turning to Pyongyang to refill its inventories depleted by invading Ukraine, North Korea on Wednesday denied transferring arms to Russia, according to official media.

Weeks after the United States claimed Moscow was turning to Pyongyang to refill its inventories depleted by invading Ukraine, North Korea on Wednesday denied transferring arms to Russia, according to official media. "We have never exported weapons or ammunition to Russia before and we will not plan to export them," an official at the defence ministry's General Bureau of Equipment said in a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). The declaration follows the White House's previous September claim that Russia was acquiring rockets and artillery from communist North Korea to help its conflict in Ukraine. According to John Kirby, a spokesman for the National Security Council, American acquisitions "may encompass literally millions of rounds, rockets, and artillery shells." He emphasised at the time that the acquisitions had not yet been made and that there was no proof the weapons were being utilised in Ukraine, citing declassified US intelligence. Also read | Zelenskiy at UNGA: We demand 'just punishment' for Russian crimes Using the official abbreviation for North Korea, Pyongyang, a close ally of Moscow, lashed out at the United States in the statement, claiming that it and "other hostile forces" were "spreading a 'rumour of arms deals' between the DPRK and Russia." We warn the US to stop making reckless remarks," it said, while emphasising North Korea maintains the right to export military equipment. The purchase of artillery ammunition from the isolated North Korean government and an agreement to purchase military drones from Iran, according to the White House, demonstrated Russia's dire financial situation following months of Western economic and technological sanctions intended to stymie its war machine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

North Korea denies exporting weapons to Russia

The Russian President Vladimir Putin has made his much anticipated next move in the Ukraine war. On Wednesday while addressing the nation, Putin gave a call for military mobilisation.

Russia: Pressure on Putin as reservists called up for war, warns west over Nuclear blackmail

Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, stated before the UN on Wednesday that his country desired "fair punishment" for a crime Russia had done against it.

In a taped speech to the UN&nbsp;General Assembly, Zelensky stated that Kyiv had a five-point plan to create a lasting peace, but he rejected the idea that his former Soviet state should become neutral.

Additionally, he rejected all peace proposals other than the one put forth by Ukraine.

Zelensky stated that among his five non-negotiable requirements for peace were sanctions against Russian aggression, the restoration of Ukraine's security, and assurances of territorial integrity and security.

"...This is the first item of our peace formula. Comprehensive item. Punishment," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-vladimir-putin-issues-nuclear-threat-plans-ukraine-escalation-518526">Zelensky</a>, wearing his trademark khaki tee shirt, told the assembly.

"Punishment for the crime of aggression. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/a-cornered-putin-is-more-dangerous-than-ever-518530">Punishment</a> for violation of borders and territorial integrity. Punishment that must be in place until the internationally recognized border is restored."

But he added: "What is NOT in our formula? Neutrality. Those who speak of neutrality, when human values and peace are under attack, mean something else."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/money-pardon-how-russia-is-luring-prisoners-to-fight-ukrainian-war-518304">Money, pardon: How Russia is luring prisoners to fight the war&nbsp;in Ukraine</a>

After his remarks, Zelensky received a standing ovation from numerous delegations. The group representing Russia remained seated.

Ukraine's constitution explicitly states that the country aspires to join the European Union and NATO. Russia declared that NATO membership for Ukraine was a "red line" that could not be crossed even before beginning its invasion in February.

Zelensky disregarded "that an other basis than the Ukrainian peace formula can be used for the settlement. It becomes increasingly unlikely that anyone in the globe will consent to join the Russian terror at a single table as it spreads."

In various areas of the country they have occupied, Ukraine and its Western allies have charged Russian forces with war crimes.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, stated before the UN on Wednesday that his country desired "fair punishment" for a crime Russia had done against it.

Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, stated before the UN on Wednesday that his country desired "fair punishment" for a crime Russia had done against it. In a taped speech to the UN General Assembly, Zelensky stated that Kyiv had a five-point plan to create a lasting peace, but he rejected the idea that his former Soviet state should become neutral. Additionally, he rejected all peace proposals other than the one put forth by Ukraine. Zelensky stated that among his five non-negotiable requirements for peace were sanctions against Russian aggression, the restoration of Ukraine's security, and assurances of territorial integrity and security. "...This is the first item of our peace formula. Comprehensive item. Punishment," Zelensky, wearing his trademark khaki tee shirt, told the assembly. "Punishment for the crime of aggression. Punishment for violation of borders and territorial integrity. Punishment that must be in place until the internationally recognized border is restored." But he added: "What is NOT in our formula? Neutrality. Those who speak of neutrality, when human values and peace are under attack, mean something else." Also read | Money, pardon: How Russia is luring prisoners to fight the war in Ukraine After his remarks, Zelensky received a standing ovation from numerous delegations. The group representing Russia remained seated. Ukraine's constitution explicitly states that the country aspires to join the European Union and NATO. Russia declared that NATO membership for Ukraine was a "red line" that could not be crossed even before beginning its invasion in February. Zelensky disregarded "that an other basis than the Ukrainian peace formula can be used for the settlement. It becomes increasingly unlikely that anyone in the globe will consent to join the Russian terror at a single table as it spreads." In various areas of the country they have occupied, Ukraine and its Western allies have charged Russian forces with war crimes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Zelensky at UNGA: We demand 'just punishment' for Russian crimes

The President of the United States Joe Biden addressed the United Nations General Assembly today. Biden began his speech by condemning Russia's war in Ukraine. He said Vladimir Putin was responsible for this war adding that Putin was intent on wiping Ukraine off the map.

US wants war to end on just terms: Joe Biden addresses 77th session of UNGA

US President Joe Biden came down harshly on Russian President Vladimir Putin in his speech at the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Wednesday. Lashing out at Putin over Ukraine war, threat of using nuclear weapons and announcement of partial military mobilisation, Biden said Putin 'shamelessly violated' UN charter.&nbsp;

“A permanent member of the United Nations Security Council invaded its neighbour, attempted to erase a sovereign state from the map. Russia has shamelessly violated the core tenets of the United Nations Charter,” Biden said.

During his speech, Biden declared his unequivocal support for Ukraine.

"We stand with Ukraine and against Russian aggression. Period!" he said.

Biden's speech at UNGA came just hours after Putin <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-russias-vladimir-putin-announces-partial-military-mobilisation-518283">ordered a partial military mobilisation</a> in Russia for Ukraine war. Putin also made a thinly veiled threat of nuclear attack.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) denounced Putin's threat as 'reckless'.

"A nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought," Biden said referring to Mutually Assured Destruction doctrine.

The doctrine states that a nuclear attack from one country will result a similar attack on the country by the other and in effect, both countries will get utterly destroyed causing immeasurable impact on global climate with direct effect on immediate human survival worldover.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/partial-military-mobilisation-in-russia-has-markets-on-alert-518418">Partial military mobilisation in Russia announcement makes oil, defence stocks surge</a>

In the run up to the Ukraine invasion and even later, Putin had claimed that Russia was threatened. Biden refuted this claim in his UNGA speech and said that no one had threatened Russia.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-russias-vladimir-putin-announces-partial-military-mobilisation-518283">'Will use all available means, this is not a bluff': Russia's Putin announces partial military mobilisation</a>

Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24. After sustained military losses in the first few months, Ukraine has been able to launch successful counter-offensives in recent weeks and recapture territory from Russian forces. Putin's call for partial military mobilisation in Russia is thus being viewed by many as desperate move to bolster his forces in Ukraine.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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US President Joe Biden came down harshly on Russian President Vladimir Putin in his speech at the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Wednesday.

US President Joe Biden came down harshly on Russian President Vladimir Putin in his speech at the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Wednesday. Lashing out at Putin over Ukraine war, threat of using nuclear weapons and announcement of partial military mobilisation, Biden said Putin 'shamelessly violated' UN charter. “A permanent member of the United Nations Security Council invaded its neighbour, attempted to erase a sovereign state from the map. Russia has shamelessly violated the core tenets of the United Nations Charter,” Biden said. During his speech, Biden declared his unequivocal support for Ukraine. "We stand with Ukraine and against Russian aggression. Period!" he said. Biden's speech at UNGA came just hours after Putin ordered a partial military mobilisation in Russia for Ukraine war. Putin also made a thinly veiled threat of nuclear attack. The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) denounced Putin's threat as 'reckless'. "A nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought," Biden said referring to Mutually Assured Destruction doctrine. The doctrine states that a nuclear attack from one country will result a similar attack on the country by the other and in effect, both countries will get utterly destroyed causing immeasurable impact on global climate with direct effect on immediate human survival worldover. Also Read | Partial military mobilisation in Russia announcement makes oil, defence stocks surge In the run up to the Ukraine invasion and even later, Putin had claimed that Russia was threatened. Biden refuted this claim in his UNGA speech and said that no one had threatened Russia. Also Read | 'Will use all available means, this is not a bluff': Russia's Putin announces partial military mobilisation Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24. After sustained military losses in the first few months, Ukraine has been able to launch successful counter-offensives in recent weeks and recapture territory from Russian forces. Putin's call for partial military mobilisation in Russia is thus being viewed by many as desperate move to bolster his forces in Ukraine. 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 ×

UNGA: Biden tears into Putin, says Russia has 'shamelessly violated' UN charter

Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced partial troops mobilisation and accused West of 'nuclear blackmail'. He said, NATO wants to start a war against our country and West is cultivating hatred for decades.

Vladimir Putin accuses West of 'nuclear blackmail', signs decree amid annexation plans

Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced military mobilisation and called out NATO allies. He said, NATO wants to start a war against our country and West is cultivating hatred for decades.

'NATO wants to start a war against our country,' says Russian President Vladimir Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (September 20) asserted that Russia would pursue its "sovereign course" on world stage, hinting at Russia's invasion of Ukraine. His words have come just ahead of United Nations General Assembly. The important global summit is being held in-person after two years of restrictions due to Covid pandemic. UN has asked leaders to come in person in case they wished to speak.

"As for Russia, we will not deviate from our sovereign course," the Russian leader said in televised remarks on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Mentioning that Russia was a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), he said that his country would work towards unity, help tackle global problems and "contribute to the settlement of acute regional conflicts".&nbsp;

In General Assembly this year, Russia's foreign minister Sergei Lavrov will represent Russia and make an address

Putin, during a televised meeting with newly appointed foreign ambassadors in Moscow, cautioned that global development was being hindered by the role of the United States abroad.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-forces-recapture-village-in-luhansk-region-as-russia-loses-control-517905">Ukrainian forces recapture village in Luhansk region as Russia loses control</a>

"Unfortunately, the development of a multipolar world is meeting resistance from those who are trying to retain their role as hegemon and control everything in Latin America, Europe, Asia and Africa," he said in an  opaque reference to the West and the United States.&nbsp;

"This hegemon has been doing quite well for quite a long time, but it cannot go on like this forever, it is impossible," the Russian leader said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (September 20) asserted that Russia would pursue its "sovereign course" on world stage, hinting at Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (September 20) asserted that Russia would pursue its "sovereign course" on world stage, hinting at Russia's invasion of Ukraine. His words have come just ahead of United Nations General Assembly. The important global summit is being held in-person after two years of restrictions due to Covid pandemic. UN has asked leaders to come in person in case they wished to speak. "As for Russia, we will not deviate from our sovereign course," the Russian leader said in televised remarks on Tuesday. Mentioning that Russia was a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), he said that his country would work towards unity, help tackle global problems and "contribute to the settlement of acute regional conflicts". In General Assembly this year, Russia's foreign minister Sergei Lavrov will represent Russia and make an address Putin, during a televised meeting with newly appointed foreign ambassadors in Moscow, cautioned that global development was being hindered by the role of the United States abroad. Also Read | Ukrainian forces recapture village in Luhansk region as Russia loses control "Unfortunately, the development of a multipolar world is meeting resistance from those who are trying to retain their role as hegemon and control everything in Latin America, Europe, Asia and Africa," he said in an  opaque reference to the West and the United States. "This hegemon has been doing quite well for quite a long time, but it cannot go on like this forever, it is impossible," the Russian leader said. (With inputs from agencies) 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 ×

Putin doubles down on decision to invade Ukraine ahead of UNGA

Threats of a radiation emergency have re-emerged as the unending war in Ukraine continues to unnerve the world. In a latest update, Ukraine said its second largest nuclear power plant was hit by Russian missiles.

Russian missiles hit Ukraine's second largest Nuclear power plant

On Monday, a top Russian security official during his visit to China announced Kremlin considers strengthening the partnership and cooperation between Moscow and Beijing a top priority. This comes days after the leaders of the two countries Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping met at the SCO Summit.&nbsp;

Russia’s secretary of the national Security Council, Nikolai Patrushev, is currently in Nanping, a city in China, where he described “strengthening of comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation with Beijing as an unconditional priority of Russia’s foreign policy.” While the council is personally chaired by the Russian president, Patrushev is reportedly one of Putin’s closest associates.&nbsp;

These remarks were made during a meeting with the Chinese Communist Party’s top official, Guo Shengkun, where he also said that given the current conditions, “our countries must show even greater readiness for mutual support and development of cooperation.”&nbsp;

According to the secretary of the security council’s office, both countries have reportedly decided to expand on “exchanging information on countering extremism” and “foreign attempts to undermine constitutional order of both countries.” Reports also suggest that officials from Moscow and Beijing have stressed the need for cybersecurity.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-russia-forge-stronger-ties-at-the-sco-summit-516749">China, Russia forge stronger ties at the SCO summit</a>

This meeting comes after the Chinese and Russian presidents met at the SCO Summit in Uzbekistan last week. Notably, this was the first time the two leaders were meeting since Russia invaded Ukraine, in February. According to a statement released by the Chinese government after the meeting, which did not mention Ukraine but went on to indicate that Beijing promised a “strong support” for Moscow’s “core interests.”&nbsp;

On the other hand, there were no specifics mentioned by Xi’s government which prior to the invasion said there were “no-limits” on its friendship with Moscow and has refused to criticise Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Meanwhile, Putin praised Xi for his “balanced” approach to the conflict in Ukraine and was ready to discuss China’s concerns about the same.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

On Monday, a top Russian security official during his visit to China announced Kremlin considers strengthening the partnership and cooperation between Moscow and Beijing a top priority.

On Monday, a top Russian security official during his visit to China announced Kremlin considers strengthening the partnership and cooperation between Moscow and Beijing a top priority. This comes days after the leaders of the two countries Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping met at the SCO Summit. Russia’s secretary of the national Security Council, Nikolai Patrushev, is currently in Nanping, a city in China, where he described “strengthening of comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation with Beijing as an unconditional priority of Russia’s foreign policy.” While the council is personally chaired by the Russian president, Patrushev is reportedly one of Putin’s closest associates. These remarks were made during a meeting with the Chinese Communist Party’s top official, Guo Shengkun, where he also said that given the current conditions, “our countries must show even greater readiness for mutual support and development of cooperation.” According to the secretary of the security council’s office, both countries have reportedly decided to expand on “exchanging information on countering extremism” and “foreign attempts to undermine constitutional order of both countries.” Reports also suggest that officials from Moscow and Beijing have stressed the need for cybersecurity. ALSO WATCH: China, Russia forge stronger ties at the SCO summit This meeting comes after the Chinese and Russian presidents met at the SCO Summit in Uzbekistan last week. Notably, this was the first time the two leaders were meeting since Russia invaded Ukraine, in February. According to a statement released by the Chinese government after the meeting, which did not mention Ukraine but went on to indicate that Beijing promised a “strong support” for Moscow’s “core interests.” On the other hand, there were no specifics mentioned by Xi’s government which prior to the invasion said there were “no-limits” on its friendship with Moscow and has refused to criticise Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Meanwhile, Putin praised Xi for his “balanced” approach to the conflict in Ukraine and was ready to discuss China’s concerns about the same. (With inputs from agencies)

Report: Russia moves to expand ties with China

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