The leaders of the West will have their eyes on the Central Asian nation of Uzbekistan. The country is hosting the Shanghai cooperation organization Summit this year where the grouping is said to expand further.

Kremlin: SCO summit will showcase an alternative to west, Putin looks to form anti-west bloc

Both China and Russia have long sought to position the SCO as an alternative to the western multilateral groups, they could possibly be closer to this aim now than ever before. Russia has time and again called the geopolitics of the America-led western alliances as predatory.

Kremlin: SCO Summit will showcase an alternative to western world

<p>United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his pessimism about situation in Ukraine. After a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Guterres said that prospects of peace were 'minimal' at present. The secretary-general said that he and Putin discusses efforts to overcome "obstacles" related Russia's food and fertiliser exports. He warned that it would be "naive" to believe there has been sufficient progress towards ending Ukraine war</p>

<p>"I have the feeling we are still far away from peace. I would be lying if I would say it could happen soon," Guterres told a press conference.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have no illusion; at the present moment the chances of a peace deal are minimal," he added, noting that even a ceasefire is "not in sight."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Guterres said that he was maintaining contact with both sides and hoped that "one day it will be possible to go to a higher level of discussion."</p>

<p>In the meantime, talks continue on Russian exports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Guterres said he spoke with Putin earlier Wednesday and that they discussed the exports initiative "and its extension and its possible expansion." &nbsp;</p>

<p>A two-part agreement -- allowing both the flow of Ukraine's grain exports blocked by the war and Russia's food and fertilizer exports -- was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey in July and is scheduled to last 120 days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While some three million tons of grain have been allowed to leave Ukraine, Russia says exports of its own foodstuffs and fertilizer continue to suffer under Western sanctions, which have targeted Moscow for its military assault.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his pessimism about situation in Ukraine. After a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Guterres said that prospects of peace were 'minimal' at present.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his pessimism about situation in Ukraine. After a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Guterres said that prospects of peace were 'minimal' at present. The secretary-general said that he and Putin discusses efforts to overcome "obstacles" related Russia's food and fertiliser exports. He warned that it would be "naive" to believe there has been sufficient progress towards ending Ukraine war "I have the feeling we are still far away from peace. I would be lying if I would say it could happen soon," Guterres told a press conference. "I have no illusion; at the present moment the chances of a peace deal are minimal," he added, noting that even a ceasefire is "not in sight." Guterres said that he was maintaining contact with both sides and hoped that "one day it will be possible to go to a higher level of discussion." In the meantime, talks continue on Russian exports. Guterres said he spoke with Putin earlier Wednesday and that they discussed the exports initiative "and its extension and its possible expansion."  A two-part agreement -- allowing both the flow of Ukraine's grain exports blocked by the war and Russia's food and fertilizer exports -- was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey in July and is scheduled to last 120 days. While some three million tons of grain have been allowed to leave Ukraine, Russia says exports of its own foodstuffs and fertilizer continue to suffer under Western sanctions, which have targeted Moscow for its military assault. (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 ×

UN chief says chances for peace 'minimal' after call with Putin

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be holding bilateral talks on the sidelines of the Shanghai CooperationOrgansiation (SCO). In other news, Ukraine is aiming to liberate all of the land held by Russian forces after quickly defeating them in the northeast. Finally, US President Joe Biden threw an "inflation reduction" party while the CPI report showed inflation hitting 8.3 per cent, lower than what was predicted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/narendra-modi-to-meet-vladimir-putin-at-sco-summit-focus-on-trade-and-energy-ties-515924"><strong>Narendra Modi to meet Vladimir Putin at SCO summit, focus on trade and energy ties</strong></a></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9cdb9a0c-c19e-4548-b3d0-ce5e48cacc16}{174}" paraid="1502961453" >“There are plans to discuss issues of ‘saturation’ of the Indian market with Russian fertiliser and bilateral food supplies. First of all, moves, aimed at boosting bilateral trade flows, will be looked at. The trade turnover reached $11.5bn in the first half of 2022, up almost 120 per cent year-on-year.” &nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-aims-to-free-all-russian-occupied-areas-after-recapturing-8000-sq-km-515931"><strong>Ukraine aims to free all Russian-occupied areas after recapturing 8,000 sq km</strong></a></p>

<p>In a Tuesday evening address, President Volodymyr Zelensky said around 8,000 square km (3,100 square miles) have been liberated by Ukrainian forces so far this month. The victories have apparently all been in the northeastern region of Kharkiv.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-parties-as-stock-market-tumbles-inflation-worsens-and-fed-indicates-rate-hike-515921"><strong>Biden parties as stock market tumbles, inflation worsens and Fed indicates rate hike</strong></a></p>

<p>"Exactly four weeks ago, I signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law. So today, we're celebrating. Tune in at 3 PM ET as I deliver remarks and welcome the leaders and advocates who made it happen to the People's House." tweeted President Biden from his official Twitter account.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;49 Armenian soldiers killed as clashes erupt between Armenia, Azerbaijan</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Another mystery death in Russia</strong></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be holding bilateral talks on the sidelines of the Shanghai CooperationOrgansiation (SCO).

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be holding bilateral talks on the sidelines of the Shanghai CooperationOrgansiation (SCO). In other news, Ukraine is aiming to liberate all of the land held by Russian forces after quickly defeating them in the northeast. Finally, US President Joe Biden threw an "inflation reduction" party while the CPI report showed inflation hitting 8.3 per cent, lower than what was predicted. Click on the headlines to read more: Narendra Modi to meet Vladimir Putin at SCO summit, focus on trade and energy ties “There are plans to discuss issues of ‘saturation’ of the Indian market with Russian fertiliser and bilateral food supplies. First of all, moves, aimed at boosting bilateral trade flows, will be looked at. The trade turnover reached $11.5bn in the first half of 2022, up almost 120 per cent year-on-year.” Ukraine aims to free all Russian-occupied areas after recapturing 8,000 sq km In a Tuesday evening address, President Volodymyr Zelensky said around 8,000 square km (3,100 square miles) have been liberated by Ukrainian forces so far this month. The victories have apparently all been in the northeastern region of Kharkiv. Biden parties as stock market tumbles, inflation worsens and Fed indicates rate hike "Exactly four weeks ago, I signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law. So today, we're celebrating. Tune in at 3 PM ET as I deliver remarks and welcome the leaders and advocates who made it happen to the People's House." tweeted President Biden from his official Twitter account. Watch | 49 Armenian soldiers killed as clashes erupt between Armenia, Azerbaijan Watch | Gravitas: Another mystery death in Russia

Morning news brief: Modi-Putin to meet at SCO summit, Ukraine aims to free Russian-occupied areas, & more

Indian PM Narendra Modi will travel to Uzbekistan for the crucial SCO meeting, which is scheduled to be held on September 15-16. PM Modi will also hold bilateral meeting with Russian president Vladimir Putin to boost trade ties.

WION Dispatch | SCO Summit 2022: Vladimir Putin to meet Indian PM Modi to boost trade ties

<p>Several lawmakers from St Petersburg have filed a petition in the country’s lower house of parliament, the State Duma, to charge Russian President Vladimir Putin with treason and remove him from office over the conflict in Ukraine. This move drew swift action from authorities as the next day, they received subpoenas from the police charging them with discrediting the Russian armed forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The petition was filed on September 7, in the country’s lower house of Parliament, by a group of seven lawmakers from the Smolninskoye district, in St Petersburg where Putin grew up and began his journey in politics as the deputy mayor. The plea was originally written by Nikita Yuferyev and Dmitry Palyuga, who assert&nbsp;that they have acted in accordance with Russian law. Subsequently, they have also published their petition on Twitter, saying that Putin’s decision to invade Ukraine amounts to “treason” based on the country’s constitution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The duo has based their arguments on four major consequences of the war – the destruction of combat-ready Russian army units, massive loss of life and injury of young and employable citizens, its adverse effect on the country’s economy, and pushing NATO's eastward expansion. During an interview, Yuferyev clarified that they do not see NATO’s expansion as a threat to Moscow, but it is an attempt to appeal to different groups in the country and convince them to call an end to this invasion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A part of the petition filed by the lawmaker duo from the Smolninskoye district read, “We believe that the decision made by President Putin to start the special military operation is detrimental to the security of Russia and its citizens…We ask you to initiate a treason charge against the president of the Russian Federation to remove him from office."</p>

<p>Notably, half of all the members in the St. Petersburg’s council belong to Putin's party, United Russia; these members did not show up for the voting on the submission of the petition, said Yuferyev. Out of the 20 members, only ten councillors were present for the vote, which is enough for a quorum, according to Russian law. However, ultimately only seven lawmakers approved the petition with three abstentions, which was a majority among the councillors present.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reportedly, a second municipal council in Moscow’s Lomonosovsky district also voted on a similar petition criticising Putin’s rhetoric regarding the conflict and called for his resignation. “The rhetoric you and your subordinates use is full of intolerance and aggression,” read the statement. It added, that while Russia is threatening the world with nuclear weapons, its people will once again be feared and hated. The petition also urged Putin to step down and called his views and model of governance “hopelessly outdated”.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-ukraine-invasion-russia-intesifies-crackdown-on-media-464863">Imprisonment of up to 15 years? Amid Ukraine invasion, Russia intensifies crackdown on media</a></p>

<p>Since late February, the beginning of the invasion, Putin has drawn a lot of international condemnation and criticism for his actions but this is seen as both a bold and symbolic move against the Kremlin. The State Duma is controlled by Putin’s United Russia, which gives the authors of the petition very little hope that this plea would be acted upon. However, the lawmakers have indicated that this plea has a symbolic goal to show people that there are a significant number of Russians who do not agree with the current course of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A day after the document went public, both Yuferyev and Palyuga were reportedly summoned by the local police via a text message asking them to testify on the charges filed against them for discrediting the Russian armed forces and government. In an interview, Yuferyev indicated that they are sure they have not violated the law and that everything is written in accordance with the Constitution. He added, “Of course, we live in a country where even if everything is done legally, but there is a desire to punish us, it will be done”, and that they can manage a 50,000 rubles fine.</p>

<p>In March, the Russian parliament passed legislation which would impose a jail term of up to 15 years for those intentionally spreading “fake news” about the country’s army, which has since reportedly been used against those contradicting the Kremlin and its rhetoric about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Additionally, Moscow also introduced an article which makes “public action aimed at discrediting the use of the armed forces of the Russian Federation” punishable by fines and jail terms of up to five years, depending on the severity of the action committed.</p>


Several lawmakers from St Petersburg have filed a petition in the country’s lower house of parliament, the State Duma, to charge Russian President Vladimir Putin with treason and remove him from office over the conflict in Ukraine.

Several lawmakers from St Petersburg have filed a petition in the country’s lower house of parliament, the State Duma, to charge Russian President Vladimir Putin with treason and remove him from office over the conflict in Ukraine. This move drew swift action from authorities as the next day, they received subpoenas from the police charging them with discrediting the Russian armed forces. The petition was filed on September 7, in the country’s lower house of Parliament, by a group of seven lawmakers from the Smolninskoye district, in St Petersburg where Putin grew up and began his journey in politics as the deputy mayor. The plea was originally written by Nikita Yuferyev and Dmitry Palyuga, who assert that they have acted in accordance with Russian law. Subsequently, they have also published their petition on Twitter, saying that Putin’s decision to invade Ukraine amounts to “treason” based on the country’s constitution. The duo has based their arguments on four major consequences of the war – the destruction of combat-ready Russian army units, massive loss of life and injury of young and employable citizens, its adverse effect on the country’s economy, and pushing NATO's eastward expansion. During an interview, Yuferyev clarified that they do not see NATO’s expansion as a threat to Moscow, but it is an attempt to appeal to different groups in the country and convince them to call an end to this invasion. A part of the petition filed by the lawmaker duo from the Smolninskoye district read, “We believe that the decision made by President Putin to start the special military operation is detrimental to the security of Russia and its citizens…We ask you to initiate a treason charge against the president of the Russian Federation to remove him from office." Notably, half of all the members in the St. Petersburg’s council belong to Putin's party, United Russia; these members did not show up for the voting on the submission of the petition, said Yuferyev. Out of the 20 members, only ten councillors were present for the vote, which is enough for a quorum, according to Russian law. However, ultimately only seven lawmakers approved the petition with three abstentions, which was a majority among the councillors present. Reportedly, a second municipal council in Moscow’s Lomonosovsky district also voted on a similar petition criticising Putin’s rhetoric regarding the conflict and called for his resignation. “The rhetoric you and your subordinates use is full of intolerance and aggression,” read the statement. It added, that while Russia is threatening the world with nuclear weapons, its people will once again be feared and hated. The petition also urged Putin to step down and called his views and model of governance “hopelessly outdated”. ALSO READ | Imprisonment of up to 15 years? Amid Ukraine invasion, Russia intensifies crackdown on media Since late February, the beginning of the invasion, Putin has drawn a lot of international condemnation and criticism for his actions but this is seen as both a bold and symbolic move against the Kremlin. The State Duma is controlled by Putin’s United Russia, which gives the authors of the petition very little hope that this plea would be acted upon. However, the lawmakers have indicated that this plea has a symbolic goal to show people that there are a significant number of Russians who do not agree with the current course of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. A day after the document went public, both Yuferyev and Palyuga were reportedly summoned by the local police via a text message asking them to testify on the charges filed against them for discrediting the Russian armed forces and government. In an interview, Yuferyev indicated that they are sure they have not violated the law and that everything is written in accordance with the Constitution. He added, “Of course, we live in a country where even if everything is done legally, but there is a desire to punish us, it will be done”, and that they can manage a 50,000 rubles fine. In March, the Russian parliament passed legislation which would impose a jail term of up to 15 years for those intentionally spreading “fake news” about the country’s army, which has since reportedly been used against those contradicting the Kremlin and its rhetoric about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Additionally, Moscow also introduced an article which makes “public action aimed at discrediting the use of the armed forces of the Russian Federation” punishable by fines and jail terms of up to five years, depending on the severity of the action committed.

Russia: Local lawmakers who accused Putin of treason summoned by police

Indian PM Narendra Modi will travel to Uzbekistan for the crucial SCO meeting, which is scheduled to be held on September 15-16. The Indian leader will also hold bilateral meeting with Russian president Vladimir Putin to boost trade ties.

SCO Summit 2022: Putin to meet Indian PM Modi; Energy, food security on agenda

After nearly two years President Xi Jinping will leave China for a trip to Central Asia where he will be meeting his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Uzbekistan. The two leaders are due to meet on the sidelines as a Shanghai Corporation Organization Summit which is scheduled to take place on the 15th and 16th of September.

Xi Jinping to meet his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Uzbekistan

Following Russian missile attacks that resulted in widespread outages on Sunday, September 11, firefighters were seen battling a fire at a thermal power plant in Kharkiv.

Firefighters battle flames at thermal power plant after missile strikes in Kharkiv

Firefighters battle flames at thermal power plant after missile strikes

It has been nearly 200 days and the war in Ukraine seems to be changing. Kyiv appears to be getting bolder with its counter attacks, the most intense fighting is happening in Kharkiv. Ukrainian troops claimed to have recaptured more than 1000 square kilometers.

Russia sends reinforcement to Kharkiv; Kyiv claims 'substantial victory'

Russia's President Vladimir Putin wrote a telegram to the new British monarch King Charles III to express his condolences on the Queen's passing.

Russian President Vladimir Putin sends telegram to UK, writes to King Charles III

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news, top headlines and international breakings from all across the globe, stay tuned with Gravitas for more!

Gravitas Global Headlines: Russian President Vladimir Putin casts doubt over grain deal

Ukraine's military chief warned that Russia could use nuclear weapons in Ukraine. He said that it could lead to World War III. The general released a detailed assessment of the war to date where he said that it was impossible to rule out the possibility of a limited nuclear conflict.

Zelensky: Kyiv's forces have had success in the Kharkiv region; takes credit for Crimea attacks

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that Russia and the developing world had been cheated by the UN-brokered Ukrainian grain export deal. Putin has now called for the deals review.

Putin: Deal favouring west, at developing countries' expense

The war in Ukraine has entered the seventh month and battles for territorial gain are going on. President Vladimir Putin's ruling party has proposed holding a referendum on Ukrainian territories controlled by Russia.

Moscow seeks 'limited' Ukraine Annexation vote; Russia's referendum in Donetsk, Luhansk

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (September 7) said that Russia will stop oil and gas supply to countries that introduce price caps. Western countries are considering to put a price cap on Russian energy products in order to cut its revenue stream. Putin told the Eastern Economic Forum that such a move "would be an absolutely stupid decision".</p>

<p>"We will not supply anything at all if it is contrary to our interests, in this case economic (interests)," he said. "No gas, no oil, no coal, no fuel oil, nothing."</p>

<p>G7 industrialised powers on Friday vowed to move urgently towards implementing a price cap on Russian oil imports, in a bid to cut off a major source of funding for Moscow's military action in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Putin said Russia would respect its contractual obligations and hoped other countries would do the same.</p>

<p>"Those who are trying to impose something on us are in no position today to dictate their will," Putin said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They should come to their senses."</p>

<p>Quoting a Russian fairy tale "Freeze, freeze, the wolf tail", Putin said that Russia would supply nothing outside of existing contracts.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkiye-president-erdogan-calls-western-policies-towards-russia-provocative-513790">Turkiye President Erdogan calls Western policies towards Russia 'provocative'</a></strong></p>

<p>Russian squeeze on natural gas supply to Europe has begun showing its effect. Energy prices in Europe have gone up and governments are facing public anger.</p>

<p>"They have several solutions. Either subsidising high prices, which is bad because it won't change consumer behaviour... or reduce consumption," he said.</p>

<p>"From an economic point of view, it is correct. From a social point of view it is dangerous, it can lead to an explosion. It is better to adhere to contractual obligations, to civilised rules," Putin said.</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 on Wednesday (September 7) said that Russia will stop oil and gas supply to countries that introduce price caps. Western countries are considering to put a price cap on Russian energy products in order to cut its revenue stream.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (September 7) said that Russia will stop oil and gas supply to countries that introduce price caps. Western countries are considering to put a price cap on Russian energy products in order to cut its revenue stream. Putin told the Eastern Economic Forum that such a move "would be an absolutely stupid decision". "We will not supply anything at all if it is contrary to our interests, in this case economic (interests)," he said. "No gas, no oil, no coal, no fuel oil, nothing." G7 industrialised powers on Friday vowed to move urgently towards implementing a price cap on Russian oil imports, in a bid to cut off a major source of funding for Moscow's military action in Ukraine. Putin said Russia would respect its contractual obligations and hoped other countries would do the same. "Those who are trying to impose something on us are in no position today to dictate their will," Putin said. "They should come to their senses." Quoting a Russian fairy tale "Freeze, freeze, the wolf tail", Putin said that Russia would supply nothing outside of existing contracts. Also Read | Turkiye President Erdogan calls Western policies towards Russia 'provocative' Russian squeeze on natural gas supply to Europe has begun showing its effect. Energy prices in Europe have gone up and governments are facing public anger. "They have several solutions. Either subsidising high prices, which is bad because it won't change consumer behaviour... or reduce consumption," he said. "From an economic point of view, it is correct. From a social point of view it is dangerous, it can lead to an explosion. It is better to adhere to contractual obligations, to civilised rules," Putin 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 threatens 'no gas, no oil' to countries introducing price caps on Russian oil

Russian President Vladimir Putin attended large-scale military exercises on Tuesday involving China and several other nations, this comes as Moscow seeks to strengthen its diplomatic ties in Asia amid the ongoing western sanctions.

Putin seeks closer ties with Asia as tensions with West intensifies

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that his forces have taken two settlements in Southern and the third in Eastern Ukraine. His forces began a counter-offensive operation last week targeting the South and the East which were seized by the Russian forces early in the conflict.

Ukrainian forces recapture three settlements in Southern and Eastern Ukraine

During a trip to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky in Russia's Far East, Russian President Vladimir Putin tried his hand at falconry.

Putin tries his hand at falconry during his visit to Russia's far east

<p>Four days after passing away at age 91, Mikhail Gorbachev, the final Soviet leader to bring the Cold War to a peaceful conclusion, has&nbsp;been buried in Moscow. According to the Kremlin, Russian President Vladimir Putin did not&nbsp;attend the funeral due to his work&nbsp;commitments.</p>

<p>But many people view this as a slight against the guy who managed the dissolution of the Soviet Union. When Gorbachev came to power in 1985, he enacted radical changes and opened the USSR to the outside world.</p>

<p>However, he was powerless to stop the union's dissolution in 1991, and many <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/polands-envoy-adam-burakowski-says-india-can-convince-russia-to-stop-war-512299">Russians</a> hold him responsible for the years of unrest that followed. He was well-liked outside of Russia, and UN Secretary-General António Guterres claimed that he had "changed the course of history."</p>

<p>The funeral service&nbsp;started at 10:00 local time (07:00 GMT), according to the Gorbachev Foundation, with the public expressing their respects to Gorbachev.</p>

<p>Like numerous of his Soviet forebears, including Vladimir Lenin, Joseph Stalin, and Leonid Brezhnev, he&nbsp;lies in state in the ancient Columned Hall of the House of Unions.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/putin-hasnt-forgiven-gorbachev-yet-512435">Putin hasn't forgiven Gorbachev yet&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>Gorbachev has&nbsp;been laid to rest in Novodevichy, the biggest cemetery in Moscow and the final resting place of many notable Russians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He deeply understood that reforms were necessary, he strove to offer his own solutions to urgent problems," the Russian leader said.</p>

<p>On Thursday, he also discreetly placed flowers at Gorbachev's casket.</p>

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<p>According to the BBC's Steve Rosenberg in Moscow, the fact that Saturday's event won't be a state funeral indicates that the present Kremlin leadership has little interest in preserving Gorbachev's legacy.</p>

<p><strong>Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-pizza-hut-to-the-free-press-gorbachevs-years-after-power-512596" hreflang="en">From Pizza Hut to the free press: Gorbachev's years after power</a></strong></p>

<p>It was clearly known that the relationship between Gorbachev and Putin was tense.</p>

<p>Their last meeting, according to reports, was in 2006, and the Russian president once referred to the fall of the USSR as the "biggest geopolitical calamity of the century."</p>

<p>Gorbachev most recently reportedly disapproved of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, although having supported the annexation of the Crimean peninsula in 2014.</p>

<p>His health had been deteriorating and he had been in and out of the hospital in recent years. He was admitted in June, according to news reports from throughout the world, after developing kidney problems.</p>

<p><strong>Also WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Putin will not attend Gorbachev's funeral</strong></p>

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Four days after passing away at age 91, Mikhail Gorbachev, the final Soviet leader to bring the Cold War to a peaceful conclusion, has been buried in Moscow. According to the Kremlin, Russian President Vladimir Putin did not attend the funeral due to his work commitments.

Four days after passing away at age 91, Mikhail Gorbachev, the final Soviet leader to bring the Cold War to a peaceful conclusion, has been buried in Moscow. According to the Kremlin, Russian President Vladimir Putin did not attend the funeral due to his work commitments. But many people view this as a slight against the guy who managed the dissolution of the Soviet Union. When Gorbachev came to power in 1985, he enacted radical changes and opened the USSR to the outside world. However, he was powerless to stop the union's dissolution in 1991, and many Russians hold him responsible for the years of unrest that followed. He was well-liked outside of Russia, and UN Secretary-General António Guterres claimed that he had "changed the course of history." The funeral service started at 10:00 local time (07:00 GMT), according to the Gorbachev Foundation, with the public expressing their respects to Gorbachev. Like numerous of his Soviet forebears, including Vladimir Lenin, Joseph Stalin, and Leonid Brezhnev, he lies in state in the ancient Columned Hall of the House of Unions. Also read | Putin hasn't forgiven Gorbachev yet Gorbachev has been laid to rest in Novodevichy, the biggest cemetery in Moscow and the final resting place of many notable Russians. "He deeply understood that reforms were necessary, he strove to offer his own solutions to urgent problems," the Russian leader said. On Thursday, he also discreetly placed flowers at Gorbachev's casket. × According to the BBC's Steve Rosenberg in Moscow, the fact that Saturday's event won't be a state funeral indicates that the present Kremlin leadership has little interest in preserving Gorbachev's legacy. Also see | From Pizza Hut to the free press: Gorbachev's years after power It was clearly known that the relationship between Gorbachev and Putin was tense. Their last meeting, according to reports, was in 2006, and the Russian president once referred to the fall of the USSR as the "biggest geopolitical calamity of the century." Gorbachev most recently reportedly disapproved of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, although having supported the annexation of the Crimean peninsula in 2014. His health had been deteriorating and he had been in and out of the hospital in recent years. He was admitted in June, according to news reports from throughout the world, after developing kidney problems. Also WATCH | Gravitas: Putin will not attend Gorbachev's funeral

Mikhail Gorbachev: Last Soviet leader laid to rest

Mikhail Gorbachev, the man who ended the Cold War without bloodshed but failed to prevent the collapse of the Soviet Union, died on Tuesday at the age of 91.

Russians bid a sombre goodbye to Gorbachev, died following 'serious and long illness'

Russian President Vladimir Putin will not be attending the funeral of Mikhail Gorbachev who was Soviet Union's last leader. The leader died at the age of 91.

Putin to not attend Mikhail Gorbachev's funeral, skip due to 'work schedule'

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the funeral of Soviet Russia's last leader Mikhail Gorbachev. The Kremlin said that Putin will not be able to attend the funeral due to 'schedule' constraints. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov spoke with the reporters on a phone&nbsp;call.</p>

<p>"Unfortunately, the president's work schedule will not allow him to do this on Sept. 3, so he decided to do it today," Peskov said.</p>

<p>Peskov said Putin paid his respects to Gorbachev on Thursday morning and that he visited and laid a wreath at Moscow's Central Clinical Hospital. Gorbachev passed away on Tuesday (August 30).</p>

<p>Pekov said that Gorbachev's funeral will have 'elements' of a state funeral, including a guard of honour, and that the state was helping with the organisation.</p>

<p>Mikhail Gorbachev, the last leader of Soviet Russia, has made indelible mark on the global politics due to his policies of 'glasnost' and 'perestroika'. He attempted to open up Soviet Russia to the world and afford some civilian liberties. The experiment ended in breakdown of Soviet Russia.</p>

<p>Putin, it is understood, considers breakdown of Soviet Russia, a superpower, a tragedy for his country. Though Gorbachev is often hailed in the West as someone who ended the Cold War, there are many within Russia who hold him responsible for country's downfall from superpower status.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the funeral of Soviet Russia's last leader Mikhail Gorbachev. The Kremlin said that Putin will not be able to attend the funeral due to 'schedule' constraints.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the funeral of Soviet Russia's last leader Mikhail Gorbachev. The Kremlin said that Putin will not be able to attend the funeral due to 'schedule' constraints. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov spoke with the reporters on a phone call. "Unfortunately, the president's work schedule will not allow him to do this on Sept. 3, so he decided to do it today," Peskov said. Peskov said Putin paid his respects to Gorbachev on Thursday morning and that he visited and laid a wreath at Moscow's Central Clinical Hospital. Gorbachev passed away on Tuesday (August 30). Pekov said that Gorbachev's funeral will have 'elements' of a state funeral, including a guard of honour, and that the state was helping with the organisation. Mikhail Gorbachev, the last leader of Soviet Russia, has made indelible mark on the global politics due to his policies of 'glasnost' and 'perestroika'. He attempted to open up Soviet Russia to the world and afford some civilian liberties. The experiment ended in breakdown of Soviet Russia. Putin, it is understood, considers breakdown of Soviet Russia, a superpower, a tragedy for his country. Though Gorbachev is often hailed in the West as someone who ended the Cold War, there are many within Russia who hold him responsible for country's downfall from superpower status. (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 not to attend Gorbachev's funeral due to 'schedule' constraints

Mikhail Gorbachev, the man who changed the coasts of history, the former soviet leader who brought an end to the cold war passed away the age of 91. His death was announced on Tuesday by Russian news agencies who said that he died at a central hospital in Moscow after a serious and long illness.

Putin expresses deepest condolences on death of last Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev

Ukraine has launched a counter-offensive in Kherson, a Ukrainian town held by Russia. Kyiv claims to have broken through Russia's first line of defence. Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you a report.

Gravitas: Ukraine launches counter-offensive in Kherson

Ukraine has announced the launch of a counter-offensive to recapture southern parts of the country and has advanced into the Kherson, Mykolaiv regions; however, Russia claimed to have repulsed the Ukrainian offensive.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Ukraine launches counter-offensive to retake Kherson region

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has been raging on for more than 6 months now. There's no end to the conflict in sight and amid all this, the US says Russia is planning to buy hundreds of UAVs.

Russia to use Iranian drones in Ukraine? The US says Russia is planning to buy hundreds of UAVs

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<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday signed a financial decree under which people who left Ukrainian territory to come to Russia after the latter's invasion will be provided financial benefits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reportedly, under the decree, published on a government portal, pensioners, disabled as well as pregnant women have been covered. Accordingly, a monthly pension of $170 (10,000 roubles) will be provided to people who have been forced to leave Ukraine since February 18.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Disabled people will also be entitled to the same amount. Meanwhile, pregnant women will receive the sum as a one-off benefit.</p>

<p>Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-six-months-into-the-russia-ukraine-war-what-are-the-consequences-so-far-509615" target="_blank">Explained: Six months into the Russia-Ukraine war, what are the consequences so far?</a></p>

<p>In February this year when Moscow invaded Kyiv, Putin ordered every person who arrived in Russia from Donetsk and Luhansk to be given a payment of 10,000 roubles.</p>

<p>Not only that, Moscow has been providing Russian passports to the Ukrainians who have ventured into Russian soil. According to international experts, this is an illegal ploy by Moscow to annex territory in the occupied part.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-signs-decree-to-boost-the-size-of-russian-forces-510230" target="_blank">Putin signs decree to boost the size of Russian forces</a></p>

<p>Moreover, this is the second decree signed by Putin in as many days. As reported by WION, Putin on Thursday authorised a significant expansion of his nation's military forces.</p>

<p>Under the decree, Putin wants to boost army numbers by 137,000, or 13 per cent to 1.15 million by the end of the year. With the addition of the 1.15 million personnel, the move will increase&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-200-ukrainian-troops-killed-in-chaplyne-railway-station-attack-claims-russia-510118" target="_blank">Russia's total armed forces</a>&nbsp;to 2.04 million.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-putin-orders-expansion-of-russias-hard-hit-armed-forces-510468">WATCH |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | Putin Orders Expansion of Russia’s Hard-Hit Armed Forces</a></p>

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<p>However, Putin's order was vague as to whether the increase would be accomplished by expanding the draught, increasing volunteerism, or a combination of the two.</p>

<p>According to estimates from the West, more Russians have lost their lives than what the Soviet Union lost in its ten-year war in Afghanistan.</p>

<p>Up to 80,000 Russian soldiers may have been killed or wounded, according to the Pentagon's report from last week, which makes Moscow less effective in launching major offensives.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday signed a financial decree under which people who left Ukrainian territory to come to Russia after the latter's invasion will be provided financial benefits.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday signed a financial decree under which people who left Ukrainian territory to come to Russia after the latter's invasion will be provided financial benefits. Reportedly, under the decree, published on a government portal, pensioners, disabled as well as pregnant women have been covered. Accordingly, a monthly pension of $170 (10,000 roubles) will be provided to people who have been forced to leave Ukraine since February 18. Disabled people will also be entitled to the same amount. Meanwhile, pregnant women will receive the sum as a one-off benefit. Read more: Explained: Six months into the Russia-Ukraine war, what are the consequences so far? In February this year when Moscow invaded Kyiv, Putin ordered every person who arrived in Russia from Donetsk and Luhansk to be given a payment of 10,000 roubles. Not only that, Moscow has been providing Russian passports to the Ukrainians who have ventured into Russian soil. According to international experts, this is an illegal ploy by Moscow to annex territory in the occupied part. Read more: Putin signs decree to boost the size of Russian forces Moreover, this is the second decree signed by Putin in as many days. As reported by WION, Putin on Thursday authorised a significant expansion of his nation's military forces. Under the decree, Putin wants to boost army numbers by 137,000, or 13 per cent to 1.15 million by the end of the year. With the addition of the 1.15 million personnel, the move will increase Russia's total armed forces to 2.04 million. WATCH | WION Fineprint | Putin Orders Expansion of Russia’s Hard-Hit Armed Forces × However, Putin's order was vague as to whether the increase would be accomplished by expanding the draught, increasing volunteerism, or a combination of the two. According to estimates from the West, more Russians have lost their lives than what the Soviet Union lost in its ten-year war in Afghanistan. Up to 80,000 Russian soldiers may have been killed or wounded, according to the Pentagon's report from last week, which makes Moscow less effective in launching major offensives. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Vladimir Putin signs a decree to provide financial benefits to Ukrainians arriving in Russia

Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant were briefly cut off from power grid on Thursday. Three out of four power lines from plant have been damaged in recent days and disconnection from power grid led to large scale outages.

Ukraine's largest nuclear plant cut off from power grid

President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree to increase the size of Russia’s armed forces from 1.9 million to 2.04 million, as the war in Ukraine enters its seventh month.

WION Fineprint | Putin Orders Expansion of Russia’s Hard-Hit Armed Forces

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