The Russia-Ukraine war is now in its 8th month. Since the very beginning of this war, global powers have picked sides. But one nation that is still almost unconditionally with Russia's so far is its trusted ally Belarus.

Reports: Putin may force Lukashenko to join war

The west may be projecting Russia’s procurement of ballistic missiles and drones from Iran as a desperate measure. However, it may not be the case. Know why Russia is buying missiles from Iran despite having better tech at its disposal here.

Why Russia is buying missiles from Iran despite having better tech at its disposal

<p>Conscript-catchers have started conducting shady raids in Moscow and St. Petersburg, despite Vladimir Putin's announcement that his military mobilisation is drawing to an end and that he has no plans to recruit any more people.</p>

<p>At a news conference in Astana, Kazakhstan, Putin stated that the "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-partial-military-mobilisation-exactly-518528">partial mobilisation</a>" he had previously promised, which the defence minister claimed was intended to bring in 300,000 soldiers, was nearing its conclusion and would be over in two weeks.</p>

<p>"Nothing additional is planned. No proposals have been received from the defence ministry and I don't see any additional need in the foreseeable future," Putin said of his on-going mobilisation.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-mobilisation-chief-found-dead-in-suspicious-circumstances-525836">Putin's mobilisation chief found dead under 'suspicious circumstances'</a></p>

<p>"Now 222,000 people have been mobilised out of 300,000. Within about two weeks, all mobilisation activities will be completed."</p>

<p>The news comes at a time when police and enlistment officers have been seen prowling around apartment complexes and on street corners, as reported by the Daily Mail.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Armed recruiters have even gone door-to-door in search of men for mobilisation, and there are rumours that in certain cases recruiting teams are employing facial recognition technology to catch evaders.</p>

<p>"They are acting like dog catchers. It's sickening how they are dragging men away as cannon fodder," said one commenter.</p>

<p>Men of mobilisation age were stranded by the entrance of the Polyustrovo Park residential complex in St. Petersburg while summonses were being delivered.</p>

<p>According to Ostorozhno News, summonses were delivered in bulk at subway stations in Moscow.</p>

<p>Police officers interviewed the men, took their personal information, and then served some of them with summonses, according to witnesses. Some individuals are driven away in police vehicles.</p>

<p>The well-known attorney and human rights advocate Pavel Chikov issued a warning about "growing allegations of raids."</p>

<p>Senator Andrey Klishas of the pro-Putin United Russia party demanded investigations into the legality of removing men from the subway and conscripting them into battle.</p>

<p>To find potential dodgers, the authorities are using databases from the police, traffic police, FSB security service, and residential landlords.</p>

<p>Even though it was promised to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-wants-to-kill-us-and-we-want-to-live-says-former-ukraine-president-525666">Russians</a> that 1 per cent&nbsp;of the male population would be deployed to Putin's war, they are also storming offices to remove men of mobilisation age.</p>

<p>The raids to capture conscripts appear to refute Russian assurances that the first wave of mobilisation has ended and that a second round has not yet commenced.</p>

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Conscript-catchers have started conducting shady raids in Moscow and St. Petersburg, despite Vladimir Putin's announcement that his military mobilisation is drawing to an end and that he has no plans to recruit any more people.

Conscript-catchers have started conducting shady raids in Moscow and St. Petersburg, despite Vladimir Putin's announcement that his military mobilisation is drawing to an end and that he has no plans to recruit any more people. At a news conference in Astana, Kazakhstan, Putin stated that the "partial mobilisation" he had previously promised, which the defence minister claimed was intended to bring in 300,000 soldiers, was nearing its conclusion and would be over in two weeks. "Nothing additional is planned. No proposals have been received from the defence ministry and I don't see any additional need in the foreseeable future," Putin said of his on-going mobilisation. Also read | Putin's mobilisation chief found dead under 'suspicious circumstances' "Now 222,000 people have been mobilised out of 300,000. Within about two weeks, all mobilisation activities will be completed." The news comes at a time when police and enlistment officers have been seen prowling around apartment complexes and on street corners, as reported by the Daily Mail. Armed recruiters have even gone door-to-door in search of men for mobilisation, and there are rumours that in certain cases recruiting teams are employing facial recognition technology to catch evaders. "They are acting like dog catchers. It's sickening how they are dragging men away as cannon fodder," said one commenter. Men of mobilisation age were stranded by the entrance of the Polyustrovo Park residential complex in St. Petersburg while summonses were being delivered. According to Ostorozhno News, summonses were delivered in bulk at subway stations in Moscow. Police officers interviewed the men, took their personal information, and then served some of them with summonses, according to witnesses. Some individuals are driven away in police vehicles. The well-known attorney and human rights advocate Pavel Chikov issued a warning about "growing allegations of raids." Senator Andrey Klishas of the pro-Putin United Russia party demanded investigations into the legality of removing men from the subway and conscripting them into battle. To find potential dodgers, the authorities are using databases from the police, traffic police, FSB security service, and residential landlords. Even though it was promised to Russians that 1 per cent of the male population would be deployed to Putin's war, they are also storming offices to remove men of mobilisation age. The raids to capture conscripts appear to refute Russian assurances that the first wave of mobilisation has ended and that a second round has not yet commenced. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Cannon fodder' for Putin's war in Ukraine: Russia's conscript catchers snatch men off the streets

Russia’s latest attack on Ukraine involved the use of Iranian-made "kamikaze" drones. What are these drones? How are they different from regular drones? Let’s get to the point.

What are Kamikaze Drones?

The Russia-Ukraine war is intensifying. The conflict is posing a greater risk of a Nuclear Armageddon. The west has warned against taking nuclear threats by Vladimir Putin lightly. Amid all the geopolitical tensions, have a look at countries that have deployed or possess nuclear weapons in Europe.

Which countries in Europe have Nuclear weapons? Has U.S. also deployed nuclear warheads in Europe?

Is Russia running out of missile stock? Moscow is eyeing missiles from Iran. It may get Iran's Fateh-110 to counter Kyiv's FGM-148 Javelin.

Is Russia running out of missile stock? Moscow eyes missiles from Iran

It has been several months since the Russian invasion of Ukraine is raging on with no end in sight. Now, Ukraine accused Russia of fresh attacks and called for more air defence systems.

Kyiv calls for more air defence systems as Ukraine accuses Russia of fresh attacks

<p>The person in control of Vladimir Putin's disastrous mobilisation effort in Ukraine has been discovered dead under "suspicious" circumstances.</p>

<p>Lt. Col. Roman Malyk (49), a military commissar, was found dead at his residence in a village in the Primorsky region of Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to some reports, he died from hanging.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Police in Russia have started a murder investigation but have not ruled out suicide.</p>

<p>His "suspicious" death follows a string of assaults on mobilisation offices across Russia.</p>

<p>As resentment over enlistment brewed across the nation, as many as 70 offices have been attacked with Molotov cocktails.</p>

<p>Fury over mobilisation officials' alleged rule-breaking forced recruitment of men with little to no training is growing.</p>

<p>Teams of armed enlistment officers working with the police have been robbing men in offices, on the street, and in subway trains in Russian cities, said a&nbsp;reported by The Mirror.</p>

<p>Amid Putin's demand for an additional 80,000 men to bring the overall number of recruits for the initial stage of enrollment to 300,000, Russia has increased security for mobilisation teams and enlistment offices.</p>

<p>Numerous men have fled to foreign countries as a result of the mobilisation, protesting Putin by voting with their feet.</p>

<p>Friends and family vehemently rejected that Malyk, a veteran of Russia's conflict in Chechnya, committed suicide.</p>

<p>He was in charge of recruiting in the Partizan district and its adjacent areas in the Primorsky region.</p>

<p>Friends referred about Malyk as a "strong and courageous man" who was "not broken by the weight of severe military events and huge losses" in Chechnya.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

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The person in control of Vladimir Putin's disastrous mobilisation effort in Ukraine has been discovered dead under "suspicious" circumstances. Lt. Col. Roman Malyk (49), a military commissar, was found dead at his residence in a village in the Primorsky region of Russia.

The person in control of Vladimir Putin's disastrous mobilisation effort in Ukraine has been discovered dead under "suspicious" circumstances. Lt. Col. Roman Malyk (49), a military commissar, was found dead at his residence in a village in the Primorsky region of Russia. According to some reports, he died from hanging. Police in Russia have started a murder investigation but have not ruled out suicide. His "suspicious" death follows a string of assaults on mobilisation offices across Russia. As resentment over enlistment brewed across the nation, as many as 70 offices have been attacked with Molotov cocktails. Fury over mobilisation officials' alleged rule-breaking forced recruitment of men with little to no training is growing. Teams of armed enlistment officers working with the police have been robbing men in offices, on the street, and in subway trains in Russian cities, said a reported by The Mirror. Amid Putin's demand for an additional 80,000 men to bring the overall number of recruits for the initial stage of enrollment to 300,000, Russia has increased security for mobilisation teams and enlistment offices. Numerous men have fled to foreign countries as a result of the mobilisation, protesting Putin by voting with their feet. Friends and family vehemently rejected that Malyk, a veteran of Russia's conflict in Chechnya, committed suicide. He was in charge of recruiting in the Partizan district and its adjacent areas in the Primorsky region. Friends referred about Malyk as a "strong and courageous man" who was "not broken by the weight of severe military events and huge losses" in Chechnya. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Putin's mobilisation chief found dead under 'suspicious circumstances'

The Kremlin's spokesperson says that the goals of Russia's invasion of Ukraine can be achieved through talks. What will be Russian President Putin's next move? Priyanka Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Ukraine war: Putin keeps the West guessing

It's been over 200 days since the war began in Ukraine. Recently, Russia escalated its offensive and Moscow has been firing a barrage of missiles in Ukraine's towns and cities. But on Friday, in a surprise development, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that there is no need for new strikes on Ukraine and that Russia's aim is not to destroy Ukraine.

'Our aim is not to destroy Ukraine,' says Russian President Vladimir Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish president Tayyip Erdogan held bilateral talks in Kazakhstan's Astana. During the meeting, Putin proposed to Erdogan that Moscow could export more gas via Turkey and turn it into a new supply hub.

Astana Summit 2022: Putin, Erdogan meet in Kazakhstan, hold bilateral talks

Russian invasion of Ukraine is intensifying. Ever since the Crimea bridge explosion, Russia has retaliated fiercely against Ukraine through a number of strikes. Know why Ukraine is still standing despite repeated Russian missile strikes here.

Why Ukraine is still standing despite repeated Russian missile strikes

A Russian Security Council official named Alexander Venediktov was quoted by TASS saying that If Ukraine is admitted into the US-led NATO alliance, then the conflict in Ukraine would be guaranteed to escalate into World War III.

Russian official warns of World War III if Ukraine joins NATO

<p>President Vladimir Putin has said that he's prepared to resume gas supplies to Europe via a link of the Germany-bound Nord Stream 2 pipeline under the Baltic Sea. He added that&nbsp; "international terrorism" was to blame for leaks on the Nord Stream pipelines connecting Russia and Europe, which would be advantageous to the United States, Poland, and Ukraine.</p>

<p>"Russia is ready for the start of deliveries. The ball is in the EU's court. If they want to, then the taps can be turned on, and that's that," Putin said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There is no doubt that this is an act of international terrorism... the geopolitical significance of the remaining gas systems is increasing -- they pass through Poland... Ukraine... and the United States, of course, which can now supply energy resources via high prices," Putin said in&nbsp;a televised address to representatives of Russia's energy sector on Wednesday.Following the Nord Stream leaks, NATO declared the occurrences an act of "sabotage" on Tuesday and said it has increased naval deployments to safeguard its infrastructure in the Baltic and North Seas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The G7 leaders expressed their "deeply&nbsp;trouble" over the Nord Stream leaks in a statement on Tuesday, adding that they "strongly condemn any deliberate disruption of critical infrastructure."&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Monday, Sweden said it would not let Russia participate in a current investigation into breaches in the Nord Stream gas pipeline, but noted that Moscow might conduct its own checks.</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-breathtaking-images-from-wildlife-photographer-of-the-year-2022-524779">In pics: Breathtaking images from wildlife photographer of the year 2022</a></p>

<p>Geopolitical concerns have been centred on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines, which link Russia to Germany. Russia stopped gas supplies to Europe in what is believed to be retribution for Western sanctions over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pipes were carrying gas before they were apparently sabotaged, but they are not now in use. The Baltic Sea is home to all four leaks, which were found two weeks ago and are all located close to the Danish island of Bornholm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Swedish&nbsp;Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson made her comments following demands from Russia to be included in investigations into the suspected sabotage.</p>

<p><em>(with inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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President Vladimir Putin has said that he's prepared to resume gas supplies to Europe via a link of the Germany-bound Nord Stream 2 pipeline under the Baltic Sea.

President Vladimir Putin has said that he's prepared to resume gas supplies to Europe via a link of the Germany-bound Nord Stream 2 pipeline under the Baltic Sea. He added that "international terrorism" was to blame for leaks on the Nord Stream pipelines connecting Russia and Europe, which would be advantageous to the United States, Poland, and Ukraine. "Russia is ready for the start of deliveries. The ball is in the EU's court. If they want to, then the taps can be turned on, and that's that," Putin said. There is no doubt that this is an act of international terrorism... the geopolitical significance of the remaining gas systems is increasing -- they pass through Poland... Ukraine... and the United States, of course, which can now supply energy resources via high prices," Putin said in a televised address to representatives of Russia's energy sector on Wednesday.Following the Nord Stream leaks, NATO declared the occurrences an act of "sabotage" on Tuesday and said it has increased naval deployments to safeguard its infrastructure in the Baltic and North Seas. The G7 leaders expressed their "deeply trouble" over the Nord Stream leaks in a statement on Tuesday, adding that they "strongly condemn any deliberate disruption of critical infrastructure." On Monday, Sweden said it would not let Russia participate in a current investigation into breaches in the Nord Stream gas pipeline, but noted that Moscow might conduct its own checks. Also Read: In pics: Breathtaking images from wildlife photographer of the year 2022 Geopolitical concerns have been centred on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines, which link Russia to Germany. Russia stopped gas supplies to Europe in what is believed to be retribution for Western sanctions over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. The pipes were carrying gas before they were apparently sabotaged, but they are not now in use. The Baltic Sea is home to all four leaks, which were found two weeks ago and are all located close to the Danish island of Bornholm. Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson made her comments following demands from Russia to be included in investigations into the suspected sabotage. (with inputs from agencies)

Putin says he is ready to resume gas supplies, blames 'international terrorism' for Nord Stream leaks

At least 10 Ukrainian cities were struck by Russian missile attacks. Russian President Vladimir Putin has threatened more strikes. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Putin threatens more missile attacks on Ukraine

The moment cars and pedestrians narrowly avoided a large explosion in Dnipro was captured in a dashcam video on Monday during a day of intense Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities.

Dashcam footage shows the moment Dnipro was hit by Russian shelling | WION Shorts

<p>The potential of a nuclear 'Armageddon'&nbsp;is at its greatest point in 60 years, United&nbsp;States President Joe Biden has warned as the Ukraine war drags on. A scenario in which nuclear weapons resulted in global annihilation is known as a nuclear 'Armageddon',&nbsp;also known as a 'nuclear holocaust.'</p>

<p>Nuclear weapons are considered weapons of mass destruction because they have the potential to produce significant radioactive effects. Only twice in history have nuclear weapons been used in actual combat, and both times were in 1945 when the US dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki to finish the Second World War.</p>

<p>As Russia asserted it would employ "all means" at its disposal to defend its borders, Biden claimed that Russian President Vladimir <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-live-updates-three-loud-blasts-rock-kyiv-report-523917">Putin</a> was "not joking." A "precedent" was set by the US utilising nuclear weapons during World War Two, according to&nbsp; Putin.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Analysts, however, contend that rather than indicating a desire to deploy <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-believes-world-war-iii-is-a-possibility-blames-stupid-people-for-russia-ukraine-conflict-escalation-523884">nuclear weapons</a>, Putin's remarks should most likely be taken as a warning to other nations not to intensify their participation in Ukraine.</p>

<p><meta charset="utf-8" /><strong>How many nuclear weapons does Russia possess?</strong></p>

<p>The number of nuclear warheads in Russia is 5,977, according to the Federation of American Scientists, albeit this number includes roughly 1,500 that are decommissioned and scheduled for decommissioning. All nuclear weapon numbers are estimations.</p>

<p>The majority of the 4,500 or so surviving nuclear weapons—ballistic missiles or rockets with long-range targeting capabilities—are regarded as strategic nuclear weapons. These are the weapons that nuclear war is typically linked to.</p>

<p>The remaining nuclear weapons are smaller and less lethal and are intended for close-range combat on land or at sea. But this does not imply that Russia is prepared with thousands of long-range nuclear weapons.</p>

<p><strong>Global comparison</strong></p>

<p>Nine nations possess nuclear weapons: China, France, India, Israel (though not publicly acknowledged), North Korea, Pakistan, Russia, the US, and the UK.</p>

<p>According to experts, 1,500 Russian warheads are currently "deployed," that is, located at missile launchers. The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) has 191 signatories, including China, France, Russia, the US, and the UK.</p>

<p>As per&nbsp;the agreement, they are required to decrease their arsenal of nuclear warheads and, in theory, are devoted to completely eliminating them.</p>

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<p>Additionally, it has decreased the number of warheads kept in those nations since the 1970s and 1980s.</p>

<p><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>India, Israel, and Pakistan did not sign the NPT, and North Korea withdrew in 2003. Despite having nuclear warheads, Israel is the only one of the nine nations to have never openly admitted having a nuclear programme. There is no proof that Ukraine has tried to acquire nuclear weapons, despite President Putin's alleged threats.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>What happens if Putin actually uses nuclear weapons?</strong></p>

<p>According to Dr Manisha Chaurasiya, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Lady Shri Ram College for Women, Delhi University, even in the worst case scenario, wherein Russia actually uses nuclear weapons (which is highly unlikely), it would face not just international condemnation and sanctions,&nbsp;but something much greater than that.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;“This would lead to a 'legitimate' response from the international community which would be not anything less than military action. That would be the last thing that Putin would want and Moscow has well in advance warned Western Europe and the United States to not intervene in the Ukraine war,” she adds.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;“Putin’s threats to use nuclear weapons seem to be empty unless Ukraine attacks Russian city centres or the 'counter value' targets through conventional weapons and thus forces Moscow to actually consider the nuclear weapon use, which again is highly unlikely."</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Is Putin in a position to use nukes?</strong></p>

<p dir="ltr">To answer that, Dr Chaurasiya says that Putin is not in a position to use nuclear weapons. “Not because someone is literally stopping him from pressing ‘the button’ but because we know that he is clever enough to not commit a politico-strategic suicide,” she adds.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;“Given his experience as a political leader, he is well aware that the ‘use’ of a nuclear weapon would mean surrendering a crucial bargaining chip. Not the actual use but the threat to use nuclear weapons is what has made the nuke game work all through the Cold War. It is a tool of deterrence and a game of strategic brinkmanship. Nuclear weapon use does not benefit Russia in the given scenario in Ukraine.<br />
<br />
"Ukraine is a neighbour and the present conflict is primarily about sovereignty over the territory, the disputed provinces of Donetsk and Luhansk. The impact of the use of this technology of weapons would certainly fall on Russia as well as the very territories that Russia is aiming to fetch. Thus, it defeats any strategic gain,” continues Dr Chaurasiya.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><meta charset="utf-8" /><meta charset="utf-8" /><b id="docs-internal-guid-b5634a48-7fff-aa8a-a184-6406bf7c0057">The extent of nuclear weapons' destruction</b></p>
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<p dir="ltr">Even the tiniest weapon has the potential to result in significant casualties and long-term effects.</p>

<p>In Hiroshima, Japan, during World War Two, a bomb with a 15-kiloton yield may have killed up to 146,000 people. And modern nuclear warheads have a maximum destructive power of 1,000 kilotons.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/avoid-non-essential-travel-to-within-ukraine-indian-embassy-in-kyiv-releases-advisory-524154">'Avoid non-essential travel to, within Ukraine': Indian embassy in Kyiv releases advisory</a></p>

<p>The immediate area of a nuclear explosion is expected to be relatively inhospitable. An intense flash is followed by a massive fireball and blast wave that can obliterate buildings and other objects for several kilometres.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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The potential of a nuclear 'Armageddon' is at its greatest point in 60 years, United States President Joe Biden has warned as the Ukraine war drags on. A scenario in which nuclear weapons resulted in global annihilation is known as a nuclear 'Armageddon', also known as a 'nuclear holocaust.

The potential of a nuclear 'Armageddon' is at its greatest point in 60 years, United States President Joe Biden has warned as the Ukraine war drags on. A scenario in which nuclear weapons resulted in global annihilation is known as a nuclear 'Armageddon', also known as a 'nuclear holocaust.' Nuclear weapons are considered weapons of mass destruction because they have the potential to produce significant radioactive effects. Only twice in history have nuclear weapons been used in actual combat, and both times were in 1945 when the US dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki to finish the Second World War. As Russia asserted it would employ "all means" at its disposal to defend its borders, Biden claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin was "not joking." A "precedent" was set by the US utilising nuclear weapons during World War Two, according to Putin. Analysts, however, contend that rather than indicating a desire to deploy nuclear weapons, Putin's remarks should most likely be taken as a warning to other nations not to intensify their participation in Ukraine. How many nuclear weapons does Russia possess? The number of nuclear warheads in Russia is 5,977, according to the Federation of American Scientists, albeit this number includes roughly 1,500 that are decommissioned and scheduled for decommissioning. All nuclear weapon numbers are estimations. The majority of the 4,500 or so surviving nuclear weapons—ballistic missiles or rockets with long-range targeting capabilities—are regarded as strategic nuclear weapons. These are the weapons that nuclear war is typically linked to. The remaining nuclear weapons are smaller and less lethal and are intended for close-range combat on land or at sea. But this does not imply that Russia is prepared with thousands of long-range nuclear weapons. Global comparison Nine nations possess nuclear weapons: China, France, India, Israel (though not publicly acknowledged), North Korea, Pakistan, Russia, the US, and the UK. According to experts, 1,500 Russian warheads are currently "deployed," that is, located at missile launchers. The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) has 191 signatories, including China, France, Russia, the US, and the UK. As per the agreement, they are required to decrease their arsenal of nuclear warheads and, in theory, are devoted to completely eliminating them. × × × Additionally, it has decreased the number of warheads kept in those nations since the 1970s and 1980s. India, Israel, and Pakistan did not sign the NPT, and North Korea withdrew in 2003. Despite having nuclear warheads, Israel is the only one of the nine nations to have never openly admitted having a nuclear programme. There is no proof that Ukraine has tried to acquire nuclear weapons, despite President Putin's alleged threats. What happens if Putin actually uses nuclear weapons? According to Dr Manisha Chaurasiya, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Lady Shri Ram College for Women, Delhi University, even in the worst case scenario, wherein Russia actually uses nuclear weapons (which is highly unlikely), it would face not just international condemnation and sanctions, but something much greater than that. “This would lead to a 'legitimate' response from the international community which would be not anything less than military action. That would be the last thing that Putin would want and Moscow has well in advance warned Western Europe and the United States to not intervene in the Ukraine war,” she adds. “Putin’s threats to use nuclear weapons seem to be empty unless Ukraine attacks Russian city centres or the 'counter value' targets through conventional weapons and thus forces Moscow to actually consider the nuclear weapon use, which again is highly unlikely." Is Putin in a position to use nukes? To answer that, Dr Chaurasiya says that Putin is not in a position to use nuclear weapons. “Not because someone is literally stopping him from pressing ‘the button’ but because we know that he is clever enough to not commit a politico-strategic suicide,” she adds. “Given his experience as a political leader, he is well aware that the ‘use’ of a nuclear weapon would mean surrendering a crucial bargaining chip. Not the actual use but the threat to use nuclear weapons is what has made the nuke game work all through the Cold War. It is a tool of deterrence and a game of strategic brinkmanship. Nuclear weapon use does not benefit Russia in the given scenario in Ukraine. "Ukraine is a neighbour and the present conflict is primarily about sovereignty over the territory, the disputed provinces of Donetsk and Luhansk. The impact of the use of this technology of weapons would certainly fall on Russia as well as the very territories that Russia is aiming to fetch. Thus, it defeats any strategic gain,” continues Dr Chaurasiya. The extent of nuclear weapons' destruction Even the tiniest weapon has the potential to result in significant casualties and long-term effects. In Hiroshima, Japan, during World War Two, a bomb with a 15-kiloton yield may have killed up to 146,000 people. And modern nuclear warheads have a maximum destructive power of 1,000 kilotons. Also read | 'Avoid non-essential travel to, within Ukraine': Indian embassy in Kyiv releases advisory The immediate area of a nuclear explosion is expected to be relatively inhospitable. An intense flash is followed by a massive fireball and blast wave that can obliterate buildings and other objects for several kilometres.

Data Lab | Putin’s nuclear threats: What happens if Russia uses nukes?

Unpublished

<p>The UN General Assembly meets Monday hours after Russia launched a deadly barrage of missile strikes at cities across Ukraine, as Western powers condemned Moscow's latest attacks and sought to underscore its isolation.</p>

<p>The United Nations called the urgent meeting to discuss Russia's declared annexation of four partly occupied Ukrainian regions, but the debate was set to be overshadowed by the attacks on Kyiv and other cities in one of the most punishing assaults on Ukraine in months.</p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed even more "severe" retaliation after the recent explosion that damaged a key bridge in Moscow-annexed Crimea -- an attack the Kremlin has blamed on Kyiv.</p>

<p>Ahead of the General Assembly session, and with tensions at a boiling point, UN chief Antonio Guterres described Russia's attacks as an "unacceptable escalation of the war," his spokesman said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-hacker-group-launches-cyberattacks-on-various-united-states-airports-524198">Russian hacker group launches cyberattacks on various United States airports</a></p>

<p>US President Joe Biden meanwhile condemned the strikes in stark terms, saying they "demonstrate the utter brutality" of Putin's "illegal war."</p>

<p>"The United States strongly condemns Russia's missile strikes today across Ukraine," he said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>'Illegal annexations'&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>With <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-live-updates-three-loud-blasts-rock-kyiv-report-523917">Putin's actions</a> in the spotlight, UN debate will open on a draft resolution denouncing what has been widely seen in the West as Russia's illegal seizure of Ukrainian land.</p>

<p>The decision to bring the annexation matter before the General Assembly, where the 193 UN members have one vote each -- and no one wields veto power -- was taken after Russia used its veto in a Security Council meeting September 30 to block a similar proposal.</p>

<p>The vote is expected no sooner than Wednesday.</p>

<p>"It's extremely important," said Olof Skoog, who, as EU ambassador to the world body, drafted the text in cooperation with Ukraine and other countries.</p>

<p>The international community will be in "a very, very bad place," the Swedish diplomat told reporters, "unless the UN system and the international community through the General Assembly react to this kind of illegal attempt."</p>

<p>A failure by the General Assembly to act would give "carte blanche to other countries to do likewise or to give recognition to what Russia has done," he added.</p>

<p>A resolution draft seen by AFP condemns Russia's "attempted illegal annexations" of the Ukrainian regions of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson following "so-called referendums," and it stresses these actions have "no validity under international law."</p>

<p>It calls on all states, international organizations and agencies not to recognize the annexations, and demands the immediate withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine.</p>

<p>In response to the resolution, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-girl-captures-kyiv-missile-explosions-with-phone-camera-watch-524044">Russia</a> has written to all member states in a letter attacking "Western delegations" whose actions "have nothing to do with protection of international law and the principles of the UN Charter."</p>

<p>"They only pursue their own geopolitical objectives," said the letter, signed by Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia.</p>

<p>Nebenzia said that given the circumstances, the General Assembly should vote by secret ballot -- a highly unusual procedure normally reserved for matters like electing the rotating members of the Security Council.</p>

<p><strong>'A bit of desperation'&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"It doesn't suggest a high degree of confidence in the outcome if Russia is seeking to obscure the vote count," a senior official in US President Joe Biden's administration told reporters. "It does suggest a bit of desperation."</p>

<p>Guterres himself has bluntly denounced the annexations as being "against everything the international community is meant to stand for," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It has no place in the modern world. It must not be accepted."</p>

<p>During last month's Security Council vote, no other country sided with Russia, though four delegations -- China, India, Brazil and Gabon -- abstained.</p>

<p>Some developing countries have complained the West is devoting all its attention to Ukraine, and others might be tempted to join them this week.</p>

<p>The vote will provide a clear picture of exactly how isolated Russia has become. Given the high stakes, backers of the draft are going all out to win over potential abstentionists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Monday, Ukrainian diplomat Dmytro Kuleba issued a plea to African nations to get off the fence.</p>

<p>"Neutrality will only encourage Russia to continue its aggression and malign activities across the world, including in Africa," he said.</p>

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The UN General Assembly meets Monday hours after Russia launched a deadly barrage of missile strikes at cities across Ukraine, as Western powers condemned Moscow's latest attacks and sought to underscore its isolation.

The UN General Assembly meets Monday hours after Russia launched a deadly barrage of missile strikes at cities across Ukraine, as Western powers condemned Moscow's latest attacks and sought to underscore its isolation. The United Nations called the urgent meeting to discuss Russia's declared annexation of four partly occupied Ukrainian regions, but the debate was set to be overshadowed by the attacks on Kyiv and other cities in one of the most punishing assaults on Ukraine in months. Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed even more "severe" retaliation after the recent explosion that damaged a key bridge in Moscow-annexed Crimea -- an attack the Kremlin has blamed on Kyiv. Ahead of the General Assembly session, and with tensions at a boiling point, UN chief Antonio Guterres described Russia's attacks as an "unacceptable escalation of the war," his spokesman said. Also read | Russian hacker group launches cyberattacks on various United States airports US President Joe Biden meanwhile condemned the strikes in stark terms, saying they "demonstrate the utter brutality" of Putin's "illegal war." "The United States strongly condemns Russia's missile strikes today across Ukraine," he said in a statement. 'Illegal annexations' With Putin's actions in the spotlight, UN debate will open on a draft resolution denouncing what has been widely seen in the West as Russia's illegal seizure of Ukrainian land. The decision to bring the annexation matter before the General Assembly, where the 193 UN members have one vote each -- and no one wields veto power -- was taken after Russia used its veto in a Security Council meeting September 30 to block a similar proposal. The vote is expected no sooner than Wednesday. "It's extremely important," said Olof Skoog, who, as EU ambassador to the world body, drafted the text in cooperation with Ukraine and other countries. The international community will be in "a very, very bad place," the Swedish diplomat told reporters, "unless the UN system and the international community through the General Assembly react to this kind of illegal attempt." A failure by the General Assembly to act would give "carte blanche to other countries to do likewise or to give recognition to what Russia has done," he added. A resolution draft seen by AFP condemns Russia's "attempted illegal annexations" of the Ukrainian regions of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson following "so-called referendums," and it stresses these actions have "no validity under international law." It calls on all states, international organizations and agencies not to recognize the annexations, and demands the immediate withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine. In response to the resolution, Russia has written to all member states in a letter attacking "Western delegations" whose actions "have nothing to do with protection of international law and the principles of the UN Charter." "They only pursue their own geopolitical objectives," said the letter, signed by Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia. Nebenzia said that given the circumstances, the General Assembly should vote by secret ballot -- a highly unusual procedure normally reserved for matters like electing the rotating members of the Security Council. 'A bit of desperation' "It doesn't suggest a high degree of confidence in the outcome if Russia is seeking to obscure the vote count," a senior official in US President Joe Biden's administration told reporters. "It does suggest a bit of desperation." Guterres himself has bluntly denounced the annexations as being "against everything the international community is meant to stand for," he said. "It has no place in the modern world. It must not be accepted." During last month's Security Council vote, no other country sided with Russia, though four delegations -- China, India, Brazil and Gabon -- abstained. Some developing countries have complained the West is devoting all its attention to Ukraine, and others might be tempted to join them this week. The vote will provide a clear picture of exactly how isolated Russia has become. Given the high stakes, backers of the draft are going all out to win over potential abstentionists. On Monday, Ukrainian diplomat Dmytro Kuleba issued a plea to African nations to get off the fence. "Neutrality will only encourage Russia to continue its aggression and malign activities across the world, including in Africa," he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UN set to meet after Russia strikes in Ukraine

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday (October 9) blamed Ukrainian secret service for huge explosion on Kerch bridge. Putin describes this as a 'terrorist act'.</p>

<p>"The authors, perpetrators and sponsors are the Ukrainian secret services," Putin was quoted as saying by Russian news agencies during a meeting with the head of the investigation committee.</p>

<p>Kerch bridge connects Russia with the Russian-annexed Crimean peninsula of Ukraine. It is a major transport route that provides soldiers and equipment for Russia's war effort in southern Ukraine.</p>

<p>"There is no doubt this is a terrorist act aimed at destroying critical Russian civilian infrastructure," Putin added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russian rockets hit residential building, kills at least 17</strong></p>

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<p>A truck bomb on Saturday ignited a massive fire on the road and rail link between Russia and the annexed Crimea peninsula, killing three people.</p>

<p>Ukraine has not claimed responsibility for the explosion.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-to-chair-security-council-meeting-on-monday-reports-523805">President Vladimir Putin to chair Russian Security Council meeting on Monday: Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24. After sustained gains in first few months of the conflict, the Russian forces have had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counter-offensive. The Ukrainian forces have been able to recapture thousands of square kilometres of territory in last one month.</p>

<p>Blast on the Kerch bridge and subsequent disruption of traffic was a symbolic, personal blow for Putin as he personally had inaugurated the bridge.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday (October 9) blamed Ukrainian secret service for huge explosion on Kerch bridge. Putin describes this as a 'terrorist act'.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday (October 9) blamed Ukrainian secret service for huge explosion on Kerch bridge. Putin describes this as a 'terrorist act'. "The authors, perpetrators and sponsors are the Ukrainian secret services," Putin was quoted as saying by Russian news agencies during a meeting with the head of the investigation committee. Kerch bridge connects Russia with the Russian-annexed Crimean peninsula of Ukraine. It is a major transport route that provides soldiers and equipment for Russia's war effort in southern Ukraine. "There is no doubt this is a terrorist act aimed at destroying critical Russian civilian infrastructure," Putin added. Watch | Russian rockets hit residential building, kills at least 17 × A truck bomb on Saturday ignited a massive fire on the road and rail link between Russia and the annexed Crimea peninsula, killing three people. Ukraine has not claimed responsibility for the explosion. Also Read | President Vladimir Putin to chair Russian Security Council meeting on Monday: Reports Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24. After sustained gains in first few months of the conflict, the Russian forces have had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counter-offensive. The Ukrainian forces have been able to recapture thousands of square kilometres of territory in last one month. Blast on the Kerch bridge and subsequent disruption of traffic was a symbolic, personal blow for Putin as he personally had inaugurated the bridge. (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 ×

Russian President Vladimir Putin blames Ukraine for Crimea bridge blast

<p>President Biden condemned Russian President Vladimir V. Putin's missile strikes throughout Ukraine on Monday, saying they had no military use and once more illustrated "the complete cruelty of Mr. Putin's illegitimate war on the Ukrainian people."</p>

<p>In reaction to the attacks, Biden made no new announcements regarding the United States or its partners. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-takes-jibe-at-biden-says-stupid-people-do-not-have-a-clue-524132">Biden</a> reiterated his commitment to help Ukraine in its conflict with Russia in a written statement released by the White House.</p>

<p>“These attacks only further reinforce our commitment to stand with the people of Ukraine for as long as it takes,” Biden said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-live-updates-three-loud-blasts-rock-kyiv-report-523917">Russia-Ukraine war live updates | Putin warns of more 'severe' attacks as Russian missiles pound Ukraine</a></p>

<p>The leaders of the Group of 7 nations—the United States, Canada, Japan, France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom—will meet virtually on Tuesday, and the American president is anticipated to be present. According to a European Union official, the group will talk about the missile attacks and the most recent developments in Ukraine.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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President Biden condemned Russian President Vladimir V. Putin's missile strikes throughout Ukraine on Monday, saying they had no military use and once more illustrated "the complete cruelty of Mr.

President Biden condemned Russian President Vladimir V. Putin's missile strikes throughout Ukraine on Monday, saying they had no military use and once more illustrated "the complete cruelty of Mr. Putin's illegitimate war on the Ukrainian people." In reaction to the attacks, Biden made no new announcements regarding the United States or its partners. Biden reiterated his commitment to help Ukraine in its conflict with Russia in a written statement released by the White House. “These attacks only further reinforce our commitment to stand with the people of Ukraine for as long as it takes,” Biden said. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war live updates | Putin warns of more 'severe' attacks as Russian missiles pound Ukraine The leaders of the Group of 7 nations—the United States, Canada, Japan, France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom—will meet virtually on Tuesday, and the American president is anticipated to be present. According to a European Union official, the group will talk about the missile attacks and the most recent developments in Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US President Biden condemns ‘the utter brutality of Putin’s illegal war’

<p>In the latest, Russian president, Putin has warned Ukraine of 'severe' attacks amid the entire nuclear attack debate. In the realm of Indian politics, Uttar Pradesh's&nbsp;former Chief minister Mulayam Singh Yadav passed away while being treated at a private hospital in Gurugram. Meanwhile, the world is headed towards a climate catastrophe with Scotland not experiencing any snow for the fourth time in six years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more.</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-warns-of-more-severe-attacks-as-russian-missiles-pound-ukraine-524108">Putin warns of more 'severe' attacks as Russian missiles pound Ukraine</a></p>

<p><img alt="PUTIN" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="073deb0e-28c8-42a7-8a27-cf7e6a873de3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1024px-Vladimir_Putin_in_Ukraine_April_2011-5_0.jpeg" /></p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened of more 'severe' attacks on Ukraine on the same day Russia pounded its western neighbour with missile strikes across the country. Putin issued the warning in televised comments addressed to his security council.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ben-bernanke-douglas-diamond-philip-dybvig-win-2022-nobel-prize-in-economics-524002">Ben Bernanke, Douglas Diamond, Philip Dybvig win 2022 Nobel Prize in economics</a></p>

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<p>Ben S. Bernanke, Douglas W. Diamond, and Philip H. Dybvig were awarded the 2022 Nobel Prize in economics. The trio won the prestigious award for their research on banks and&nbsp;financial crises.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/life-and-times-of-mulayam-singh-yadav-from-a-wrestler-teacher-to-national-leader-523973">Life and times of Mulayam Singh Yadav: From a wrestler, teacher, to national leader</a></p>

<p><img alt="mulayam" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9d1588df-2bd9-4ea8-9abb-edf723fd1d7a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Mulayam_Singh1_5_1200x768.jpeg" /></p>

<p>Mulayam Singh Yadav, a veteran politician and former chief minister, passed away on Monday while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Gurugram.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-cybersecurity-chief-to-be-fired-over-russia-ties-reports-524121">Germany cybersecurity chief to be fired over Russia ties: reports</a></p>

<p><img alt="german" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58c4af08-81b3-4c0b-8a65-400a921547ec" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/files-germany-russia-security-politics-internet-092218_2678756_20221010172700.jpg" /></p>

<p>The chief&nbsp;of the federal agency in charge of cybersecurity, Arne Schönbohm, is under consideration for termination by German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser due to his alleged contacts with Russian security service agents</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/snow-free-scotland-no-snow-in-the-country-for-fourth-time-in-six-years-524101">'Snow-free' Scotland: No snow in the country for fourth time in six years</a></p>

<p><img alt="scotland" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="75882ccb-80cd-44c5-8e0e-91b531edd804" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2817%29_1.png" /></p>

<p>For the fourth time in the past six years, Scotland is entirely snow-free. The Sphinx in the Cairngorms, which had previously been the UK's longest-lasting snow patch, has melted.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Donald Trump takes jibe at Biden, says 'stupid people do not have a clue'</strong></p>

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In the latest, Russian president, Putin has warned Ukraine of 'severe' attacks amid the entire nuclear attack debate. In the realm of Indian politics, Uttar Pradesh's former Chief minister Mulayam Singh Yadav passed away while being treated at a private hospital in Gurugram.

In the latest, Russian president, Putin has warned Ukraine of 'severe' attacks amid the entire nuclear attack debate. In the realm of Indian politics, Uttar Pradesh's former Chief minister Mulayam Singh Yadav passed away while being treated at a private hospital in Gurugram. Meanwhile, the world is headed towards a climate catastrophe with Scotland not experiencing any snow for the fourth time in six years. Click on the headlines to read more. Putin warns of more 'severe' attacks as Russian missiles pound Ukraine Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened of more 'severe' attacks on Ukraine on the same day Russia pounded its western neighbour with missile strikes across the country. Putin issued the warning in televised comments addressed to his security council. Ben Bernanke, Douglas Diamond, Philip Dybvig win 2022 Nobel Prize in economics Ben S. Bernanke, Douglas W. Diamond, and Philip H. Dybvig were awarded the 2022 Nobel Prize in economics. The trio won the prestigious award for their research on banks and financial crises. Life and times of Mulayam Singh Yadav: From a wrestler, teacher, to national leader Mulayam Singh Yadav, a veteran politician and former chief minister, passed away on Monday while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Gurugram. Germany cybersecurity chief to be fired over Russia ties: reports The chief of the federal agency in charge of cybersecurity, Arne Schönbohm, is under consideration for termination by German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser due to his alleged contacts with Russian security service agents 'Snow-free' Scotland: No snow in the country for fourth time in six years For the fourth time in the past six years, Scotland is entirely snow-free. The Sphinx in the Cairngorms, which had previously been the UK's longest-lasting snow patch, has melted. WATCH | Donald Trump takes jibe at Biden, says 'stupid people do not have a clue' 'Hard to surpass him': Australia legend Ian Chappell picks Virat Kohli as best Test batter of this generation Australian legend Ian Chappell has picked Team India superstar Virat Kohli as the best Test batter of the current generation. Kohli, who is known for his incredible consistency, has been breaking records for fun across formats for a number of years now and is widely regarded as one of the greatest of all time. World Mental Health Day 2022: Status of mental health across the world World Mental Health Day is observed every year on October 10 across the world to raise awareness through various programmes and events in order to draw attention to mental health issues, while representing a global commitment to raise awareness around them to mobilise support. WATCH | Haiti: Rise in Cholera cases amidst lack of availability of basic services Mani Ratnam's 'Ponniyin Selvan' creates history at the global box office Film-maker Mani Ratnam’s latest release ‘Ponniyin Selvan: 1’ seems to be unstoppable at the box office. The film which boasts an ensemble cast is inching closer to making Rs 400 crore (about 4,85,40,440.00 USD) at the worldwide box office. Also known as ‘PS-1’, the film has a stellar cast led by Chiyaan Vikram, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Trisha Krishnan, Jayam Ravi and Karthi.

Top 10 world news: Putin warns Ukraine of 'severe' attacks, US trio win Nobel prize in economics & more

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened of more 'severe' attacks on Ukraine on the same day Russia pounded its western neighbour with missile strikes across the country. Putin issued the warning in televised comments addressed to his security council.</p>

<p>"Let there be no doubt," Putin said, "if attempts at terrorist attacks continue, the response from Russia will be severe."</p>

<p>Putin predecessor, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev said on social media that the strikes were only "the first episode".</p>

<p>The 'terrorist attack' Putin mentioned is an apparent reference to truck bomb explosion on Kerch bridge, a key bridge connecting Russia with Russia-occupied Crimea. Ukraine has not accpeted responsibility for the explosion but Putin has blamed Ukraine.</p>

<p>The bridge is vital to Russia's war effort in southern Ukraine as it transports soldiers and military equipment from Russia to Crimea.</p>

<p>Russia's missile strikes across Ukraine on Monday was first major military response from Russia after explosion on Kerch bridge.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-airstrike-hits-german-embassy-in-kyiv-reports-524036">Russian strike hits German embassy in Kyiv: Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the Russian strikes had aimed to take down Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Regional officials across the country confirmed widespread disruptions to services.</p>

<p>Ukraine's foreign minister said the attacks had not been "provoked" and the onslaught was Moscow's response to a series of embarrassing military losses in eastern Ukraine.</p>

<p>"Putin is desperate because of battlefield defeats and uses missile terror to try to change the pace of war in his favour," minister Dmytro Kuleba wrote on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em>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"><strong>here</strong></a>.</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened of more 'severe' attacks on Ukraine on the same day Russia pounded its western neighbour with missile strikes across the country.

Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened of more 'severe' attacks on Ukraine on the same day Russia pounded its western neighbour with missile strikes across the country. Putin issued the warning in televised comments addressed to his security council. "Let there be no doubt," Putin said, "if attempts at terrorist attacks continue, the response from Russia will be severe." Putin predecessor, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev said on social media that the strikes were only "the first episode". The 'terrorist attack' Putin mentioned is an apparent reference to truck bomb explosion on Kerch bridge, a key bridge connecting Russia with Russia-occupied Crimea. Ukraine has not accpeted responsibility for the explosion but Putin has blamed Ukraine. The bridge is vital to Russia's war effort in southern Ukraine as it transports soldiers and military equipment from Russia to Crimea. Russia's missile strikes across Ukraine on Monday was first major military response from Russia after explosion on Kerch bridge. Also Read | Russian strike hits German embassy in Kyiv: Reports Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the Russian strikes had aimed to take down Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Regional officials across the country confirmed widespread disruptions to services. Ukraine's foreign minister said the attacks had not been "provoked" and the onslaught was Moscow's response to a series of embarrassing military losses in eastern Ukraine. "Putin is desperate because of battlefield defeats and uses missile terror to try to change the pace of war in his favour," minister Dmytro Kuleba wrote on social media. (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 warns of more 'severe' attacks as Russian missiles pound Ukraine

<p>Starting with Russia,&nbsp;President Vladimir Putin is reportedly getting ready to chair his Security Council meet on Monday. Meanwhile, in South Asia,&nbsp;A significant fire started on the third floor of the Islamabad Centaurus Mall on Sunday and is now spreading to other floors. In a bizarre episode, a man from&nbsp;UK was charged £35 million for 15 minute trip. In the realm of sport,&nbsp;Novak Djokovic claimed the 90th title of his career and the fourth of 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-to-chair-security-council-meeting-on-monday-reports-523805">Russian President Vladimir Putin to chair Russian Security Council meeting on Monday: Reports</a></p>

<p><img alt="putin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a62bbf14-4822-4942-9fe3-c92d28e5403c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1024px-Vladimir_Putin_in_Ukraine_April_2011-5.jpeg" /></p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly getting ready to chair his Security Council meet on Monday (October 10). The development will take place at a time when Russian forces have suffered military losses in Ukraine in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensive.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-massive-fire-erupts-at-centaurus-mall-in-pakistans-islamabad-523804">WATCH: Massive fire erupts at Centaurus mall in Pakistan’s Islamabad</a></p>

<p><img alt="pak" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8df722df-a887-41ab-8ae2-37e6df6decb8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/FeoIq9yX0AAxkSs.jpg" /></p>

<p>A significant fire started on the third floor of the Islamabad Centaurus Mall on Sunday and is now spreading to other floors, including the residential flats situated on the upper section of the building.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mahsa-amini-death-protest-iranian-state-tv-hacked-during-live-broadcast-with-anti-regime-message-523676">Mahsa Amini protests: Iranian state TV hacked during live broadcast, anti-regime messages flashed</a></p>

<p><img alt="amini" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="35cac41e-60d2-40e0-a642-398e2f786870" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/protester-holds-a-portrait-of-mahsa-amini-during-a-news-photo-1663844952.jpg" /></p>

<p>Iran’s state TV was hacked during a live broadcast with a message supporting the anti-government protesters, as the agitation intensifies and enters the fourth week.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Uber blunder: UK man charged £35 million for 15 minute trip</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uber-blunder-man-charged-ps35-million-for-15-minute-trip-523774/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-first-five-hong-kong-teenagers-detained-for-three-years-under-security-law-523782">In a first, five Hong Kong teenagers detained for three years under security law</a></p>

<p><img alt="hong kong" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e6b053e4-9ef8-432b-a4cb-dc7817f79c7e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/c1_2410030.jpeg" /></p>

<p>Five teenagers from Hong Kong who were accused of urging an “armed revolution” have been ordered to send to a correctional facility for three years in a national security case.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-bizarre-incident-northeasterns-law-school-sends-out-4000-acceptance-letters-by-mistake-523790">In a bizarre mistake, Northeastern’s law school sends out 4,000 acceptance letters</a></p>

<p><img alt="law school" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e25117b1-1ec2-4a3a-b917-b078a0afd295" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/221007103429-02-northeastern-university.jpg" /></p>

<p>More than 4,000 law students, both current and past, learned last week that they had been accepted to Northeastern University's law school. Later, the university claimed that the admission letters were mistakenly sent.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/harvey-weinstein-back-on-trial-five-years-after-metoo-movement-shook-up-the-world-523770">Harvey Weinstein back on trial, five years after #MeToo movement shook the world</a></p>

<p><img alt="harvey" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="be5a887b-fba0-4bce-90a9-e965743bda35" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/preview.jpg" /></p>

<p>Harvey Weinstein is facing trial in the city where he was once a towering presence at the Oscars, five years after the #MeToo movement erupted in response to women's claims about sexual assault and harassment by him.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-beats-stefanos-tsitsipas-in-astana-open-final-to-bag-90th-career-title-523826">Novak Djokovic beats Stefanos Tsitsipas in Astana Open final to bag 90th career title</a></p>

<p><img alt="djokivic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="153e73e9-4a3c-43f6-993d-1240659888a2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/djokovic-astana-2022-saturday-1.jpg" /></p>

<p>Novak Djokovic claimed the 90th title of his career and the fourth of 2022 with a dominant straight-sets victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas in the ATP final in Astana on Sunday.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Sri Lanka's Ex-PM Mahinda Rajapaksa pledges to support Wickremesinghe</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sri-lankas-ex-pm-mahinda-rajapaksa-pledges-to-support-wickremesinghe-523721/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-self-reliant-defence-production-china-outranks-india-by-massive-margin-says-study-523753">China more self-reliant in defence production, outranks India by massive margin, says study</a></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><img alt="CHINA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1cb27996-9eaf-4521-a4c7-278fa9d32c3c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/4JKB7272V5IXRJRFPV6MHIFNLE.jpg" /></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">China has been placed first in self-reliant defence production, while India has been ranked fourth among 12 countries in the Indo-Pacific, according to a study of the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), an independent research institute on global security.</div>


Starting with Russia, President Vladimir Putin is reportedly getting ready to chair his Security Council meet on Monday. Meanwhile, in South Asia, A significant fire started on the third floor of the Islamabad Centaurus Mall on Sunday and is now spreading to other floors.

Starting with Russia, President Vladimir Putin is reportedly getting ready to chair his Security Council meet on Monday. Meanwhile, in South Asia, A significant fire started on the third floor of the Islamabad Centaurus Mall on Sunday and is now spreading to other floors. In a bizarre episode, a man from UK was charged £35 million for 15 minute trip. In the realm of sport, Novak Djokovic claimed the 90th title of his career and the fourth of 2022. Russian President Vladimir Putin to chair Russian Security Council meeting on Monday: Reports Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly getting ready to chair his Security Council meet on Monday (October 10). The development will take place at a time when Russian forces have suffered military losses in Ukraine in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensive. WATCH: Massive fire erupts at Centaurus mall in Pakistan’s Islamabad A significant fire started on the third floor of the Islamabad Centaurus Mall on Sunday and is now spreading to other floors, including the residential flats situated on the upper section of the building. Mahsa Amini protests: Iranian state TV hacked during live broadcast, anti-regime messages flashed Iran’s state TV was hacked during a live broadcast with a message supporting the anti-government protesters, as the agitation intensifies and enters the fourth week. WATCH | Uber blunder: UK man charged £35 million for 15 minute trip In a first, five Hong Kong teenagers detained for three years under security law Five teenagers from Hong Kong who were accused of urging an “armed revolution” have been ordered to send to a correctional facility for three years in a national security case. In a bizarre mistake, Northeastern’s law school sends out 4,000 acceptance letters More than 4,000 law students, both current and past, learned last week that they had been accepted to Northeastern University's law school. Later, the university claimed that the admission letters were mistakenly sent. Harvey Weinstein back on trial, five years after #MeToo movement shook the world Harvey Weinstein is facing trial in the city where he was once a towering presence at the Oscars, five years after the #MeToo movement erupted in response to women's claims about sexual assault and harassment by him. Novak Djokovic beats Stefanos Tsitsipas in Astana Open final to bag 90th career title Novak Djokovic claimed the 90th title of his career and the fourth of 2022 with a dominant straight-sets victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas in the ATP final in Astana on Sunday. WATCH | Sri Lanka's Ex-PM Mahinda Rajapaksa pledges to support Wickremesinghe China more self-reliant in defence production, outranks India by massive margin, says study China has been placed first in self-reliant defence production, while India has been ranked fourth among 12 countries in the Indo-Pacific, according to a study of the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), an independent research institute on global security.

Top 10 world news: Massive fire at Pak mall, Putin to chair Russian security council meeting & more

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly getting ready to chair his Security Council meet on Monday (October 10). The development will take place at a time when Russian forces have suffered military losses in Ukraine in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensive and part of the Kerch Bridge collapsed after a blast and fire.</p>

<p>As quoted by AFP, Kremlin&nbsp;spokesperson Dmitry Peskov made an announcement about this.</p>

<p>"Tomorrow, the president has a planned meeting with the permanent members of the Security Council,"&nbsp;Peskov said.</p>

<p>The Russian Security Council meeting has been convened after Putin ramped up security of the Kerch Bridge and appointed a new general for leading the operation&nbsp;&nbsp;in Ukraine after repeated setbacks.</p>

<p>Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 this year. After sustained gains in the first few months of the war, Russian forces have had to retreat. The Ukranian forces have been able to recapture thousands of square kilometres of territory, including some that Russia had declared would remain Russia's 'forever'.</p>

<p>Announcement about Putin chairing the meeting has been made just a day after an explosion rocked a&nbsp;key bridge connecting Russia and Russian-annexed Crimea. The explosion caused some portion of the Kerch Bridge to collapse.</p>

<p>Kerch bridge is an important bridge as it transports troops and military material to Crimea. This in turn helps Russian military operations in southern Ukraine.</p>

<p>The bridge has a symbolic value and it was inaugurated by President Vladimir Putin himself as he drove a truck across it.</p>

<p>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"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly getting ready to chair his Security Council meet on Monday (October 10). The development will take place at a time when Russian forces have suffered military losses in Ukraine in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensive and part of the Kerch Bridge collapsed after a blast and fire.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly getting ready to chair his Security Council meet on Monday (October 10). The development will take place at a time when Russian forces have suffered military losses in Ukraine in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensive and part of the Kerch Bridge collapsed after a blast and fire. As quoted by AFP, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov made an announcement about this. "Tomorrow, the president has a planned meeting with the permanent members of the Security Council," Peskov said. The Russian Security Council meeting has been convened after Putin ramped up security of the Kerch Bridge and appointed a new general for leading the operation in Ukraine after repeated setbacks. Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 this year. After sustained gains in the first few months of the war, Russian forces have had to retreat. The Ukranian forces have been able to recapture thousands of square kilometres of territory, including some that Russia had declared would remain Russia's 'forever'. Announcement about Putin chairing the meeting has been made just a day after an explosion rocked a key bridge connecting Russia and Russian-annexed Crimea. The explosion caused some portion of the Kerch Bridge to collapse. Kerch bridge is an important bridge as it transports troops and military material to Crimea. This in turn helps Russian military operations in southern Ukraine. The bridge has a symbolic value and it was inaugurated by President Vladimir Putin himself as he drove a truck across it. 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 ×

President Vladimir Putin to chair Russian Security Council meeting on Monday: Reports

<p>For his 70th birthday on Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin received an unexpected present: a tractor.</p>

<p>President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus gave Putin a gift card for the vehicle&nbsp;as the heads of numerous former Soviet states convened at the Konstantin Palace in St. Petersburg during the Czarist era. The pride of Belarusian industry during the Soviet era has been tractors.</p>

<p>As he cultivated a man of the people persona while ruling the former Soviet country with an iron fist for over three decades, tyrant Lukashenko revealed to reporters that he used a model in his garden that was similar to the one he gave Putin.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-world-must-act-now-to-stop-russia-nuclear-threat-says-zelensky-523472">Ukraine war: 'World must act now to stop Russia nuclear threat,' says Zelensky</a></p>

<p>The gift, which was made public by Lukashenko's office, elicited no immediate response from the Russian president.</p>

<p>When <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-to-not-enforce-sanctions-on-megayacht-linked-to-putin-ally-523446">Putin </a>spoke about the need to address means of resolving disputes between former Soviet countries during his opening statements for the meeting on television, he made no mention of the gift.</p>

<p>He also stressed the significance of information sharing in the battle against crime, illegal substances, and terrorism.</p>

<p>Next week, the leaders of the informal association of former Soviet states, the Commonwealth of Independent States, will meet in Astana, Kazakhstan.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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For his 70th birthday on Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin received an unexpected present: a tractor. President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus gave Putin a gift card for the vehicle as the heads of numerous former Soviet states convened at the Konstantin Palace in St.

For his 70th birthday on Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin received an unexpected present: a tractor. President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus gave Putin a gift card for the vehicle as the heads of numerous former Soviet states convened at the Konstantin Palace in St. Petersburg during the Czarist era. The pride of Belarusian industry during the Soviet era has been tractors. As he cultivated a man of the people persona while ruling the former Soviet country with an iron fist for over three decades, tyrant Lukashenko revealed to reporters that he used a model in his garden that was similar to the one he gave Putin. Also read | Ukraine war: 'World must act now to stop Russia nuclear threat,' says Zelensky The gift, which was made public by Lukashenko's office, elicited no immediate response from the Russian president. When Putin spoke about the need to address means of resolving disputes between former Soviet countries during his opening statements for the meeting on television, he made no mention of the gift. He also stressed the significance of information sharing in the battle against crime, illegal substances, and terrorism. Next week, the leaders of the informal association of former Soviet states, the Commonwealth of Independent States, will meet in Astana, Kazakhstan. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Putin receives tractor as gift for his 70th birthday

Will the Ukraine war take a nuclear turn? Will Vladimir Putin press the nuclear button? The Russian President says he is not bluffing about such a possibility. The White House agrees. What about Ukraine? Is it prepared for a nuclear escalation? Listen in to Priyanka Sharma

Gravitas Plus: Ukraine war: Rising fear of a nuclear escalation

The Russian President Vladimir Putin signed yet another decree amidst Russia-Ukraine war. Putin's decree created a new operator for Exxonmobil cooperation led Sakhalin-1 oil and gas project.

Russia: Putin orders seizure of Sakhalin-1 project

<p>Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, claims that Russian authorities have started to 'prepare their society'&nbsp;for the potential use of nuclear weapons, but added that he does not think Russia is prepared to use them.</p>

<p>in an interview with the BBC, President Zelensky said that a previous remark of his had been mistranslated when he denied advocating strikes against Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You must use preventive kicks," he said, referring to sanctions, "not attacks".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-has-recaptured-around-2500-km-of-land-from-russian-control-says-volodymyr-zelensky-523443">Ukraine has recaptured around 2500 km of land from Russian control, says Volodymyr Zelensky</a></p>

<p>In recent weeks, the Ukrainian army has successfully reclaimed vast tracts of land in a counteroffensive that has compelled Russian troops to leave long-held positions. President Vladimir Putin has merged four of Ukraine's partially seized regions, according to Kyiv, as Moscow's response to its setbacks.</p>

<p><img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e026dd76-6505-494d-a073-7d546fdf8662" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Marking%20out%20territories%20under%20Russian%20control.png" /></p>

<p><em><strong>Ukrainian territories under Russian control</strong></em></p>

<p>The annexations, which are viewed as unlawful by the majority, have sparked worries about a potential uptick in the seven-month war. There has been no indication, according to Western sources, that Moscow is willing to protect such areas with nuclear weapons, even though <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-ukraine-russia-war-elon-musk-now-has-a-suggestion-on-how-to-end-china-taiwan-tensions-523452">President Putin</a> and other senior Russian officials have recommended doing so.</p>

<p>Speaking in English at the president's office in Kyiv, President Zelensky said: "They begin to prepare their society. That's very dangerous."</p>

<p>Zelensky said action was needed now, as Russia's threats were a "risk for the whole planet". Moscow, he claimed, had "made a step already" by occupying the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, Europe's largest nuclear station which President Putin is trying to turn into <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-to-not-enforce-sanctions-on-megayacht-linked-to-putin-ally-523446">Russian</a> property.</p>

<p>Around 500 Russian troops were at the plant, he said, although the Ukrainian staff still operate it.</p>

<p>"The world can stop urgently the actions of Russian occupiers," President Zelensky said. "The world can implement the sanction package in such cases and do everything to make them leave the nuclear power plant."</p>

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Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, claims that Russian authorities have started to 'prepare their society' for the potential use of nuclear weapons, but added that he does not think Russia is prepared to use them.

Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, claims that Russian authorities have started to 'prepare their society' for the potential use of nuclear weapons, but added that he does not think Russia is prepared to use them. in an interview with the BBC, President Zelensky said that a previous remark of his had been mistranslated when he denied advocating strikes against Russia. "You must use preventive kicks," he said, referring to sanctions, "not attacks". Also read | Ukraine has recaptured around 2500 km of land from Russian control, says Volodymyr Zelensky In recent weeks, the Ukrainian army has successfully reclaimed vast tracts of land in a counteroffensive that has compelled Russian troops to leave long-held positions. President Vladimir Putin has merged four of Ukraine's partially seized regions, according to Kyiv, as Moscow's response to its setbacks. Ukrainian territories under Russian control The annexations, which are viewed as unlawful by the majority, have sparked worries about a potential uptick in the seven-month war. There has been no indication, according to Western sources, that Moscow is willing to protect such areas with nuclear weapons, even though President Putin and other senior Russian officials have recommended doing so. Speaking in English at the president's office in Kyiv, President Zelensky said: "They begin to prepare their society. That's very dangerous." Zelensky said action was needed now, as Russia's threats were a "risk for the whole planet". Moscow, he claimed, had "made a step already" by occupying the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, Europe's largest nuclear station which President Putin is trying to turn into Russian property. Around 500 Russian troops were at the plant, he said, although the Ukrainian staff still operate it. "The world can stop urgently the actions of Russian occupiers," President Zelensky said. "The world can implement the sanction package in such cases and do everything to make them leave the nuclear power plant." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'World must act now to stop Russia, it’s nuclear threat a risk for the whole planet,' says Zelensky

<p>Vladimir Putin, the president of Russia, turns 70 today,&nbsp;days after&nbsp;Moscow mobilised its military, threatened to use nuclear weapons, and moved to annex a large portion of Ukraine. It has also been more than 200 days since Moscow invaded the now-EU-aspiring former Soviet republic.</p>

<p>On September 28, the executive of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asia-pacific-may-lose-title-as-worlds-largest-travel-region-post-pandemic-523081">European Union</a> suggested more sanctions against Russia for its conflict with Ukraine, including tighter trade limitations, more people being placed on individual blacklists, and a cap on oil prices for third-world nations.</p>

<p>The 27 nations that make up the bloc will now get the plan, and in order for the new measures to be put into effect, they will need to put aside their differences on them.</p>

<p>Putin warned the West on September 21 that he was serious when he stated he would be prepared to use nuclear weapons to defend Russia. He also ordered Russia's first mobilisation since World War Two and supported a proposal to take large portions of Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nuclear-armageddon-threat-highest-for-first-time-since-cold-war-says-joe-biden-523164">Nuclear 'Armageddon' threat highest for first time since Cuban Missile Crisis, says Joe Biden</a></p>

<p>Putin approved a plan to takeover a portion of Ukrainian land the size of Hungary and activated 300,000 reservists in the worst escalation of the Ukraine war since Moscow's incursion on February 24.</p>

<p>"If the territorial integrity of our country is threatened, we will without doubt use all available means to protect Russia and our people - this is not a bluff,"&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;said in a televised address to the nation.</p>

<p>Putin&nbsp;said, without providing detailed evidence, that the West was plotting to destroy Russia, engaging in "nuclear blackmail" by allegedly discussing the potential use of nuclear weapons against Moscow, and accused the United States, the European Union and Britain of encouraging Ukraine to push military operations into Russia itself.</p>

<p>The speech, which came after a significant Russian defeat on the battlefield in northeastern Ukraine, stoked rumours about the war's outcome and the future of the Kremlin leader while also demonstrating that Putin was intensifying what he terms his "special military operation" in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Putin is essentially wagering that by raising the possibility of a direct conflict between Russia and the NATO military alliance led by the United States — a step towards World War Three — the West will back down from its support for Ukraine, something it has not yet indicated it will do.</p>

<p>Tens of thousands have died as a result of Putin's war in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zaporizhzhia-power-plant-is-a-ukrainian-facility-says-head-of-un-nuclear-watchdog-523122">Ukraine</a>, which has also caused the biggest conflict with the West since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, when many people feared the outbreak of nuclear war.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Vladimir Putin, the president of Russia, turns 70 today, days after Moscow mobilised its military, threatened to use nuclear weapons, and moved to annex a large portion of Ukraine.

Vladimir Putin, the president of Russia, turns 70 today, days after Moscow mobilised its military, threatened to use nuclear weapons, and moved to annex a large portion of Ukraine. It has also been more than 200 days since Moscow invaded the now-EU-aspiring former Soviet republic. On September 28, the executive of the European Union suggested more sanctions against Russia for its conflict with Ukraine, including tighter trade limitations, more people being placed on individual blacklists, and a cap on oil prices for third-world nations. The 27 nations that make up the bloc will now get the plan, and in order for the new measures to be put into effect, they will need to put aside their differences on them. Putin warned the West on September 21 that he was serious when he stated he would be prepared to use nuclear weapons to defend Russia. He also ordered Russia's first mobilisation since World War Two and supported a proposal to take large portions of Ukraine. Also read | Nuclear 'Armageddon' threat highest for first time since Cuban Missile Crisis, says Joe Biden Putin approved a plan to takeover a portion of Ukrainian land the size of Hungary and activated 300,000 reservists in the worst escalation of the Ukraine war since Moscow's incursion on February 24. "If the territorial integrity of our country is threatened, we will without doubt use all available means to protect Russia and our people - this is not a bluff," Putin said in a televised address to the nation. Putin said, without providing detailed evidence, that the West was plotting to destroy Russia, engaging in "nuclear blackmail" by allegedly discussing the potential use of nuclear weapons against Moscow, and accused the United States, the European Union and Britain of encouraging Ukraine to push military operations into Russia itself. The speech, which came after a significant Russian defeat on the battlefield in northeastern Ukraine, stoked rumours about the war's outcome and the future of the Kremlin leader while also demonstrating that Putin was intensifying what he terms his "special military operation" in Ukraine. Putin is essentially wagering that by raising the possibility of a direct conflict between Russia and the NATO military alliance led by the United States — a step towards World War Three — the West will back down from its support for Ukraine, something it has not yet indicated it will do. Tens of thousands have died as a result of Putin's war in Ukraine, which has also caused the biggest conflict with the West since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, when many people feared the outbreak of nuclear war. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russian president Vladimir Putin turns 70

It is the 7th of October and if you Google famous personalities born on this day, the first and the only prominent names that will pop up is that of the Russian President Vladimir Putin. This seventh Putin has turned 70 years old.

WION Fineprint | Vladimir Putin turns 70: From KGB spy to Russian Czar

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