US President Donald Trump has claimed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is attempting to withdraw from a rare earth minerals agreement with the United States.
Speaking to reporters on Air Force One on Sunday, Trump warned that if Zelenskyy tries to renegotiate the deal, he will face &ldquo;big, big problems.&rdquo;
&ldquo;I think Zelensky, by the way, he&rsquo;s trying to back out of the rare earth deal, and if he does that, he&rsquo;s got some problems, big, big problems,&rdquo; Trump stated.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-couldnt-care-less-zelensky-calls-for-tough-measures-on-moscow-after-trumps-warning-to-russia-8910487">Putin &lsquo;couldn&rsquo;t care less&rsquo;: Zelensky calls for &lsquo;tough measures&rsquo; on Moscow after Trump&rsquo;s warning to Russia</a>
The agreement, which was expected to grant the US access to Ukraine&rsquo;s oil, gas, and mineral resources through a joint investment fund, was originally set to be signed on 28 February. However, the signing was postponed following a dispute at the White House, where US Vice President JD Vance reportedly criticised Zelenskyy for being ungrateful.
<h2>Zelensky insists on protecting Ukraine&rsquo;s EU accession</h2>
Zelensky has maintained that Ukraine will not accept any agreement that could jeopardise its bid to join the European Union.
&ldquo;Nothing that could endanger&hellip;Ukraine&rsquo;s accession to the EU can be accepted,&rdquo; he said at a press conference in Kyiv on Friday.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-trumps-angry-remarks-kremlin-says-putin-open-to-call-with-us-president-if-deemed-necessary-8910343">After Trump&rsquo;s &lsquo;angry&rsquo; remarks, Kremlin says Putin &lsquo;open&rsquo; to call with US president &lsquo;if deemed necessary&rsquo;</a>
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha reinforced this stance on Sunday, stating, &ldquo;We can see this Russian strategy and will never accept anything that leaves Ukraine weak or defenceless.&rdquo;
&ldquo;To the contrary, a real and fair peace requires strong and long-term security guarantees to preserve it,&rdquo; he added.
Ukraine Seeks Changes to Deal, Russia Engages in Minerals Talks with US
According to Ukrainian reports, the latest draft of the minerals agreement included provisions that had not been discussed previously, as well as some that had already been rejected by both sides.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-third-term-8907961">&lsquo;Not joking&rsquo; about third term: Trump says there are &lsquo;methods&rsquo; to stay in power beyond 2028</a>
Bloomberg reported that Ukraine is seeking modifications that would require the US to commit more investment while also clarifying how the joint reconstruction fund would function.
Meanwhile, Russian state media has reported that Moscow and Washington have begun discussions on their own rare earth minerals cooperation.
&ldquo;Rare earth metals are an important area for cooperation, and we have certainly started discussions about various rare earth metals and projects in Russia,&rdquo; said Kirill Dmitriev, Putin&rsquo;s envoy on international economic and investment cooperation.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-trump-pissed-off-over-anti-zelensky-comments-secondary-oil-tariffs-on-russia-8907533">&lsquo;Putin knows I&rsquo;m angry&rsquo;: Trump &lsquo;pissed off&rsquo; over anti-Zelensky remarks, warns of secondary oil tariffs on Russia</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: “I think Zelensky, by the way, he’s trying to back out of the rare earth deal, and if he does that, he’s got some problems, big, big problems,” Trump stated.

US President Donald Trump has claimed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is attempting to withdraw from a rare earth minerals agreement with the United States. Speaking to reporters on Air Force One on Sunday, Trump warned that if Zelenskyy tries to renegotiate the deal, he will face “big, big problems.” “I think Zelensky, by the way, he’s trying to back out of the rare earth deal, and if he does that, he’s got some problems, big, big problems,” Trump stated. Also read: Putin ‘couldn’t care less’: Zelensky calls for ‘tough measures’ on Moscow after Trump’s warning to Russia The agreement, which was expected to grant the US access to Ukraine’s oil, gas, and mineral resources through a joint investment fund, was originally set to be signed on 28 February. However, the signing was postponed following a dispute at the White House, where US Vice President JD Vance reportedly criticised Zelenskyy for being ungrateful. Zelensky insists on protecting Ukraine’s EU accession Zelensky has maintained that Ukraine will not accept any agreement that could jeopardise its bid to join the European Union. “Nothing that could endanger…Ukraine’s accession to the EU can be accepted,” he said at a press conference in Kyiv on Friday. Also read: After Trump’s ‘angry’ remarks, Kremlin says Putin ‘open’ to call with US president ‘if deemed necessary’ Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha reinforced this stance on Sunday, stating, “We can see this Russian strategy and will never accept anything that leaves Ukraine weak or defenceless.” “To the contrary, a real and fair peace requires strong and long-term security guarantees to preserve it,” he added. Ukraine Seeks Changes to Deal, Russia Engages in Minerals Talks with US According to Ukrainian reports, the latest draft of the minerals agreement included provisions that had not been discussed previously, as well as some that had already been rejected by both sides. Also read: ‘Not joking’ about third term: Trump says there are ‘methods’ to stay in power beyond 2028 Bloomberg reported that Ukraine is seeking modifications that would require the US to commit more investment while also clarifying how the joint reconstruction fund would function. Meanwhile, Russian state media has reported that Moscow and Washington have begun discussions on their own rare earth minerals cooperation. “Rare earth metals are an important area for cooperation, and we have certainly started discussions about various rare earth metals and projects in Russia,” said Kirill Dmitriev, Putin’s envoy on international economic and investment cooperation. Also read: ‘Putin knows I’m angry’: Trump ‘pissed off’ over anti-Zelensky remarks, warns of secondary oil tariffs on Russia (With inputs from agencies)

'He’s got big, big problems': Trump accuses Zelensky of trying to 'back out' of rare earth deal

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (Mar 30) evening said that his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin &ldquo;couldn&rsquo;t care less about&rdquo; a ceasefire after reporting more drone strikes in seven regions in his country.&nbsp;
This comes after US President Donald Trump expressed his anger over the recent remarks made by the Russian president for questioning the leadership of Zelensky and suggesting a transitional government in Ukraine.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-trumps-angry-remarks-kremlin-says-putin-open-to-call-with-us-president-if-deemed-necessary-8910343">After Trump&rsquo;s &lsquo;angry&rsquo; remarks, Kremlin says Putin &lsquo;open&rsquo; to call with US president &lsquo;if deemed necessary&rsquo;</a>
&ldquo;If Russia and I are unable to make a deal on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I think it was Russia&rsquo;s fault, which it might not be, but if I think it was Russia&rsquo;s fault, I am going to put secondary tariffs on oil, on all oil coming out of Russia,&rdquo; the US president had said.
<h2>&lsquo;Strikes and shelling&rsquo; in Ukraine</h2>
In a video address on Sunday, the Ukrainian president reported &ldquo;more strikes and shelling&rdquo; in seven regions of the country.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-trump-pissed-off-over-anti-zelensky-comments-secondary-oil-tariffs-on-russia-8907533">&lsquo;Putin knows I&rsquo;m angry&rsquo;: Trump &lsquo;very angry&rsquo; over anti-Zelensky remarks, warns of secondary oil tariffs on Russia</a>
&ldquo;The geography and brutality of Russian strikes, not just occasionally, but literally every day and night, show that Putin couldn&rsquo;t care less about diplomacy,&rdquo; he said.
&ldquo;For several weeks now, there has been a US proposal for an unconditional ceasefire,&rdquo; Zelensky added. &ldquo;And almost every day, in response to this proposal, there are Russian drones, bombs, artillery shelling and ballistic strikes.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-exchange-for-military-support-us-proposes-new-minerals-deal-for-ukraine-zelensky-says-this-is-important-8901953">'In exchange for military support': US proposes new minerals deal for Ukraine, Zelensky says 'This is important'</a>
<h2>Zelensky calls for &lsquo;tough measures&rsquo;</h2>
The Ukrainian president called for further &ldquo;tough measures&rdquo; against Moscow to push Putin into a ceasefire deal. The fighting has continued despite the mediation efforts by the US to secure a ceasefire in Ukraine to end the three-year-long war.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-scared-of-trump-ukrainian-president-takes-a-step-back-after-advising-us-to-impose-sanctions-on-russia-8897942">Zelensky scared of Trump? Ukrainian president takes a step back after 'advising' US to impose sanctions on Russia</a>
&ldquo;Russia deserves increased pressure &ndash; all the tough measures that can break its capacity to wage war and sustain the system that wants nothing but war,&rdquo; Zelensky said. &ldquo;Sanctions against Russia are essential. More air defense for Ukraine is essential. More cooperation and unity among all partners is essential.&rdquo;
While both Kyiv and Moscow agreed to stop attacks in the Black Sea and on energy infrastructure, both have accused the other of violating the agreement and attacking energy targets.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The Ukrainian president called for further “tough measures” against Moscow to push Putin into a ceasefire deal. The fighting has continued despite the mediation efforts by the US to secure a ceasefire in Ukraine to end the three-year-long war.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (Mar 30) evening said that his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin “couldn’t care less about” a ceasefire after reporting more drone strikes in seven regions in his country. This comes after US President Donald Trump expressed his anger over the recent remarks made by the Russian president for questioning the leadership of Zelensky and suggesting a transitional government in Ukraine. Also read | After Trump’s ‘angry’ remarks, Kremlin says Putin ‘open’ to call with US president ‘if deemed necessary’ “If Russia and I are unable to make a deal on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I think it was Russia’s fault, which it might not be, but if I think it was Russia’s fault, I am going to put secondary tariffs on oil, on all oil coming out of Russia,” the US president had said. ‘Strikes and shelling’ in Ukraine In a video address on Sunday, the Ukrainian president reported “more strikes and shelling” in seven regions of the country. Also read | ‘Putin knows I’m angry’: Trump ‘very angry’ over anti-Zelensky remarks, warns of secondary oil tariffs on Russia “The geography and brutality of Russian strikes, not just occasionally, but literally every day and night, show that Putin couldn’t care less about diplomacy,” he said. “For several weeks now, there has been a US proposal for an unconditional ceasefire,” Zelensky added. “And almost every day, in response to this proposal, there are Russian drones, bombs, artillery shelling and ballistic strikes.” Also read | 'In exchange for military support': US proposes new minerals deal for Ukraine, Zelensky says 'This is important' Zelensky calls for ‘tough measures’ The Ukrainian president called for further “tough measures” against Moscow to push Putin into a ceasefire deal. The fighting has continued despite the mediation efforts by the US to secure a ceasefire in Ukraine to end the three-year-long war. Also read | Zelensky scared of Trump? Ukrainian president takes a step back after 'advising' US to impose sanctions on Russia “Russia deserves increased pressure – all the tough measures that can break its capacity to wage war and sustain the system that wants nothing but war,” Zelensky said. “Sanctions against Russia are essential. More air defense for Ukraine is essential. More cooperation and unity among all partners is essential.” While both Kyiv and Moscow agreed to stop attacks in the Black Sea and on energy infrastructure, both have accused the other of violating the agreement and attacking energy targets. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin ‘couldn’t care less’: Zelensky calls for ‘tough measures’ on Moscow after Trump’s warning to Russia

President Donald Trump on Sunday (March 30) voiced his anger over recent comments made by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who questioned the leadership of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and suggested a transitional government in Ukraine.
<h2>'Very angry, pissed off'</h2>
In a phone interview with NBC News on Sunday morning, Trump said he was &ldquo;very angry&rdquo; and &ldquo;pissed off&rdquo; at Putin&rsquo;s comments, adding, &ldquo;It&rsquo;s not going in the right location.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/russia-ukraine-war-trumps-ukraine-peace-plan-isnt-about-peace-its-a-pr-stunt-8862762">Trump&rsquo;s Ukraine &lsquo;peace&rsquo; plan isn&rsquo;t about peace. It&rsquo;s a PR stunt</a>
Putin&rsquo;s comments, delivered on Friday, included a call for a new governing body in Ukraine, a move that could potentially sideline Zelensky.
Trump responded by warning of possible economic consequences. &ldquo;If Russia and I are unable to make a deal on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I think it was Russia&rsquo;s fault, which it might not be, but if I think it was Russia&rsquo;s fault, I am going to put secondary tariffs on oil, on all oil coming out of Russia,&rdquo; he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-assassination-bid-on-putin-limousine-explosion-in-moscow-sparks-speculations-8906067">Assassination bid on Putin? Limousine explosion in Moscow sparks speculations</a>
He explained that any country buying Russian oil would face consequences. &ldquo;That would be that if you buy oil from Russia, you can&rsquo;t do business in the United States. There will be a 25% tariff on all oil, a 25- to 50-point tariff on all oil,&rdquo; he added.
Trump said that the tariffs would include Russian oil and other products sold in the US, saying they would come into effect within a month if a ceasefire is not reached. &ldquo;There will be a 25% tariff on oil and other products sold in the United States, secondary tariffs,&rdquo; he said.
He also mentioned that he maintains a &ldquo;very good relationship&rdquo; with Putin despite his frustration. &ldquo;Putin knows I am angry,&rdquo; he said, adding that &ldquo;the anger dissipates quickly... if he does the right thing.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anonymous-group-says-trump-and-putin-are-colluding-against-democracies-8899781">'This isn't paranoia': Anonymous claims Trump and Putin are in a 'love fest'</a>
According to Trump, he and Putin are expected to speak again later this week.
Ending the conflict in Ukraine has been a central part of Trump&rsquo;s foreign policy agenda in his second term. In the early months of his return to office, meetings were held between US, Ukrainian, and Russian officials.
Last week, Russia and Ukraine agreed to a limited ceasefire, allowing safe passage through the Black Sea and pausing attacks on each other&rsquo;s energy infrastructure.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-wants-to-divide-europe-us-zelensky-stresses-washington-stance-on-russia-should-be-stronger-8897747">'Putin wants to divide Europe, US': Zelensky stresses Washington's stance on Russia should be stronger</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: In a phone interview on Sunday morning, Trump said he was “very angry” and “pissed off” at Putin’s comments, adding, “It’s not going in the right location.”

President Donald Trump on Sunday (March 30) voiced his anger over recent comments made by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who questioned the leadership of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and suggested a transitional government in Ukraine. 'Very angry, pissed off' In a phone interview with NBC News on Sunday morning, Trump said he was “very angry” and “pissed off” at Putin’s comments, adding, “It’s not going in the right location.” Also read: Trump’s Ukraine ‘peace’ plan isn’t about peace. It’s a PR stunt Putin’s comments, delivered on Friday, included a call for a new governing body in Ukraine, a move that could potentially sideline Zelensky. Trump responded by warning of possible economic consequences. “If Russia and I are unable to make a deal on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I think it was Russia’s fault, which it might not be, but if I think it was Russia’s fault, I am going to put secondary tariffs on oil, on all oil coming out of Russia,” he said. Also read: Assassination bid on Putin? Limousine explosion in Moscow sparks speculations He explained that any country buying Russian oil would face consequences. “That would be that if you buy oil from Russia, you can’t do business in the United States. There will be a 25% tariff on all oil, a 25- to 50-point tariff on all oil,” he added. Trump said that the tariffs would include Russian oil and other products sold in the US, saying they would come into effect within a month if a ceasefire is not reached. “There will be a 25% tariff on oil and other products sold in the United States, secondary tariffs,” he said. He also mentioned that he maintains a “very good relationship” with Putin despite his frustration. “Putin knows I am angry,” he said, adding that “the anger dissipates quickly... if he does the right thing.” Also read: 'This isn't paranoia': Anonymous claims Trump and Putin are in a 'love fest' According to Trump, he and Putin are expected to speak again later this week. Ending the conflict in Ukraine has been a central part of Trump’s foreign policy agenda in his second term. In the early months of his return to office, meetings were held between US, Ukrainian, and Russian officials. Last week, Russia and Ukraine agreed to a limited ceasefire, allowing safe passage through the Black Sea and pausing attacks on each other’s energy infrastructure. Also read: 'Putin wants to divide Europe, US': Zelensky stresses Washington's stance on Russia should be stronger (With inputs from agencies)

‘Putin knows I’m angry’: Trump ‘pissed off’ over anti-Zelensky remarks, warns of secondary oil tariffs on Russia

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday indicated that lifting specific EU sanctions is one of Russia's conditions for a Black sea truce. Moscow is also eyeing access to 'SWIFT' - the international banking system.
Rubio said, "The Russians detailed several conditions that they want to see met in order to reach a ceasefire in the Black sea." <o:p></o:p>He added, "So we're going to evaluate that. Some of those conditions include sanctions that are not ours; they belong to the European Union."<o:p></o:p>
Following a proposal by Washington, the Kremlin made many conditions for a Black sea ceasefire during a second round of negotiations between US and Russian delegates in Riyadh on March 25.<o:p></o:p>
Russian agriculture bank Rossel Khozbank and "Other financial institutions involved in international trade in food and fertilisers" were to have sanctions lifted, along with producers, exporters, and ships of food and fertiliser from Russia.<o:p></o:p>
Moscow's conditions also include access to the SWIFT international banking system registered in Belgium.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal">Eu says full withdrawal must first<o:p></o:p></h2>
However, European Commission spokesman Anitta Hipper said the "Unconditional withdrawal" of all Russian soldiers from Ukrainian land is a crucial requirement for the EU. To relax or lift sanctions on Moscow.<o:p></o:p>
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said reconnecting Russian banks to SWIFT would be contingent upon Moscow's actions. <o:p></o:p>Bessent said, "It will be determined by the Russian leadership's next moves, whether the sanctions go up or down." <o:p></o:p>He added, "President Trump, I think, would not hesitate to raise sanctions if it gives him a negotiating advantage."<o:p></o:p>
(With inputs from the agencies)<o:p></o:p>

Business & Economy: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday indicated that lifting specific EU sanctions is one of Russia's conditions for a Black sea truce. Moscow is also eyeing access to 'SWIFT' - the international banking system.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday indicated that lifting specific EU sanctions is one of Russia's conditions for a Black sea truce. Moscow is also eyeing access to 'SWIFT' - the international banking system. Rubio said, "The Russians detailed several conditions that they want to see met in order to reach a ceasefire in the Black sea." He added, "So we're going to evaluate that. Some of those conditions include sanctions that are not ours; they belong to the European Union." Following a proposal by Washington, the Kremlin made many conditions for a Black sea ceasefire during a second round of negotiations between US and Russian delegates in Riyadh on March 25. Russian agriculture bank Rossel Khozbank and "Other financial institutions involved in international trade in food and fertilisers" were to have sanctions lifted, along with producers, exporters, and ships of food and fertiliser from Russia. Moscow's conditions also include access to the SWIFT international banking system registered in Belgium. Eu says full withdrawal must first However, European Commission spokesman Anitta Hipper said the "Unconditional withdrawal" of all Russian soldiers from Ukrainian land is a crucial requirement for the EU. To relax or lift sanctions on Moscow. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said reconnecting Russian banks to SWIFT would be contingent upon Moscow's actions. Bessent said, "It will be determined by the Russian leadership's next moves, whether the sanctions go up or down." He added, "President Trump, I think, would not hesitate to raise sanctions if it gives him a negotiating advantage." (With inputs from the agencies)

Russia's Conditions for Black Sea Truce: Sanctions and SWIFT Access

Donald Trump administrations' top officials became the subject of ridicule by Russian state TV hosts after the Signal scandal, where a journalist was "accidentally" added to a confidential chat, came to light.
Mocking Trump's team over the chat leak, news anchors on Russian state TV &mdash; often referred to as 'mouthpieces' of Russian President Vladimir Putin &mdash; commented they wanted "to get in" another chat.
<h2>'Insane' amounts of emojis</h2>
Taunting Trump administration officials for inadvertently adding The Atlantic magazine journalist Jeffrey Goldberg to a chat where senior officials shared plans for military strikes on Yemen's Houthi rebels, the TV hosts noted the "insane" amount of emojis used.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trumps-top-advisers-private-data-found-online-amid-yemen-war-plan-leak-scandal-yemen-war-plans-group-chat-mike-waltz-tulsi-gabbard-pete-hegseth-jd-vance-8894961">Trump's top advisers' private data found online amid Yemen war plans group chat scandal</a>
Poking fun at the US official's extensive use of emojis, Russia 1 TV host Olga Skabeyeva said "Here is a totally insane emoji".&nbsp;
"A striking fist, a flag with stars and stripes, and a flame. Vice President JD Vance described the operation of conducting the airstrikes as 'excellent'," she added.
Malek Dudakov, a political scientist, often billed as an American expert, commented: "I am not surprised that American officials in this administration are using these private platforms."
"This isn't a government channel, not an official channel... I think those working in the Trump administration don't trust official channels. They think that leaks could originate from there," he added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-continues-to-have-confidence-in-his-national-security-team-white-house-8894436">Trump continues to have 'confidence in his national security team': White House</a>
<h2>Which chat do they want access to?</h2>
The Russian state TV hosts then noted that the Trump administration appeared to be preoccupied with the Middle East and seem to have relegated the Ukraine war to an afterthought.
"Nothing was said about Ukraine there. This was a chat about the Houthis," noted Skabeyeva.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-houthi-attack-plan-what-did-the-leaked-yemen-strike-chat-reveal-8894236">Trump Houthi attack plan: What did the leaked Yemen strike chat 'reveal'?</a>
"He is mainly concerned with the situation in the Middle East. That's why they're rushing with the Ukraine issue."
"We should certainly take advantage of that," she noted.
Watch what they said here:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hNSo2gQBT6M?si=4ytxSBXZNC5_wMYq" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
The leaked Signal chat featured big names like Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and Central Intelligence Agency Director John Ratcliffe.
(With inputs from agencies)

Russian state TV ridicules Trump officials over a Signal scandal, where a journalist was mistakenly added to a chat discussing Yemen air strike plans, highlighting security lapses.

Donald Trump administrations' top officials became the subject of ridicule by Russian state TV hosts after the Signal scandal, where a journalist was "accidentally" added to a confidential chat, came to light. Mocking Trump's team over the chat leak, news anchors on Russian state TV — often referred to as 'mouthpieces' of Russian President Vladimir Putin — commented they wanted "to get in" another chat. 'Insane' amounts of emojis Taunting Trump administration officials for inadvertently adding The Atlantic magazine journalist Jeffrey Goldberg to a chat where senior officials shared plans for military strikes on Yemen's Houthi rebels, the TV hosts noted the "insane" amount of emojis used. Also read | Trump's top advisers' private data found online amid Yemen war plans group chat scandal Poking fun at the US official's extensive use of emojis, Russia 1 TV host Olga Skabeyeva said "Here is a totally insane emoji". "A striking fist, a flag with stars and stripes, and a flame. Vice President JD Vance described the operation of conducting the airstrikes as 'excellent'," she added. Malek Dudakov, a political scientist, often billed as an American expert, commented: "I am not surprised that American officials in this administration are using these private platforms." "This isn't a government channel, not an official channel... I think those working in the Trump administration don't trust official channels. They think that leaks could originate from there," he added. Also read | Trump continues to have 'confidence in his national security team': White House Which chat do they want access to? The Russian state TV hosts then noted that the Trump administration appeared to be preoccupied with the Middle East and seem to have relegated the Ukraine war to an afterthought. "Nothing was said about Ukraine there. This was a chat about the Houthis," noted Skabeyeva. Also read | Trump Houthi attack plan: What did the leaked Yemen strike chat 'reveal'? "He is mainly concerned with the situation in the Middle East. That's why they're rushing with the Ukraine issue." "We should certainly take advantage of that," she noted. Watch what they said here: The leaked Signal chat featured big names like Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and Central Intelligence Agency Director John Ratcliffe. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Russian state TV mocks Trump officials for leaked Yemen air strike plans, says they want to 'get in' THIS chat

Russia and Ukraine have separately agreed to avoid military action against ships in the Black Sea following Saudi Arabia talks, said the White House.
In other news, US President Donald Trump dismissed the accidental leak of Yemen air strikes to a journalist as a minor mistake.
Meanwhile, a video of an Israeli diplomat, David Roet, has gone viral on social media, suggesting there should be a 'death sentence' for Palestinian teens involved in the Gaza war.&nbsp;
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-ceasefire-breakthrough-saudi-talks-with-us-yield-black-sea-truce-white-house-confirms-8890042">Ukraine-Russia ceasefire breakthrough: Saudi talks with US yield Black Sea truce, White House confirms</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/18/NZ8uQhDR1iW0AFZgXxaX.png" alt=" Volodymyr Zelensky, Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin Photograph: (Reuters ) " style="width: 1280px;">
Russia and Ukraine have separately agreed to avoid military action against ships in the Black Sea, following talks that ended on Tuesday in Saudi Arabia, according to the White House.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-downplays-us-war-plan-leak-as-unserious-glitch-defends-advisor-waltz-learned-a-lesson-8889927">Trump downplays US war plan leak as 'unserious glitch,' defends advisor: 'Waltz learned a lesson'</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/24/TaoUAJwwkaza0W2EdQmz.png" alt=" Trump supporter&rsquo;s wife arrested over visa issue, says he doesn&rsquo;t regret his vote Photograph: (Reuters ) ">
US President Donald Trump has dismissed the accidental inclusion of a journalist in a group chat about Yemen air strikes as a minor mistake, describing it as a "glitch". Despite the incident, he continues to back his senior national security officials.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-gaza-war-update-there-should-be-a-death-sentence-to-palestinian-teens-did-israeli-envoy-david-roet-say-this-8888111">'There should be a death sentence' to Palestinian teens involved in Gaza war: Did Israeli envoy David Roet say this? Find out</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/16/Qdnv9jQ8XDM2JBenNGFQ.png" alt=" Israel and Hamas are back at war as the ceasefire was broken Photograph: (Reuters file) ">
There is a video going viral on social media, claiming to show David Roet, an Israeli diplomat, suggesting that there should be a 'death sentence' for Palestinian teens involved in the Gaza war. While much of the audio is not entirely audible, it appears he was speaking in the context of teenagers using guns and grenades to fight against Israel in the ongoing Gaza war against the Hamas militant group.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrats-want-hegseth-waltz-to-resign-over-war-plan-leak-gabbard-claims-no-classified-material-in-signal-chat-8890127">Democrats want Hegseth, Waltz to resign over war plan leak; Gabbard claims 'no classified material' in Signal chat</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/25/Om4Jtn8apR28bE6bRpaG.png" alt=" Tulsi Gabbard, director of national intelligence, Michael Waltz, a top national security adviser and Pete Hegseth, the secretary of defense Photograph: (Reuters/AFP) ">
US Democrats began to grill President Donald Trump's top intelligence officials on Tuesday (March 25) over the group chat which had a discussion over Houthi war plans.&nbsp;
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The government of Papua New Guinea has temporarily blocked access to Facebook as part of what it calls a &ldquo;test&rdquo; aimed at reducing hate speech, misinformation, pornography, and other harmful material online.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-takes-suo-motu-notice-of-allahbad-hc-ruling-grabbing-breasts-not-rape-attempt-8890256">Supreme Court takes suo motu notice of Allahbad HC ruling &lsquo;grabbing breasts not rape attempt&rsquo;</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/25/vRcaO4GGhjFaOAJio0oI.jpg" alt=" Supreme Court of India Photograph: (ANI) ">
The Indian Supreme Court on Tuesday (Mar 15) has taken suo motu cognizance of a controversial rulling by the Allahbad High Court, which said that grabbing breasts and breaking pyjama strings did not amount to rape or attempt to rape. The HC&rsquo;s verdict came on March 17 in a case involving an 11-year-old girl, sparking outrage from legal experts, political leaders and activists.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/woke-up-half-naked-former-hostage-shares-harrowing-account-of-sexual-assault-by-hamas-militants-in-gaza-8890272">'Woke up half-naked': Former hostage shares harrowing account of sexual assault by Hamas militants in Gaza</a>
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A former hostage has come up and shared her harrowing experience of being sexually assaulted during her abduction to Gaza by Hamas militants on October 7, 2023.&nbsp;
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In a shocking incident, a woman was violently attacked in Canada&rsquo;s Calgary train station platform as the bystanders watched in silence. The video of the assault surfaced on social media and has been widely shared online, sparking outrage as no one seemed to help the woman, who appears to be of Indian origin.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/first-trailer-for-final-destination-bloodlines-is-here-to-traumatise-a-new-generation-8890149">First trailer for Final Destination Bloodlines is here to traumatise a new generation</a>
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The first trailer for Final Destination: Bloodlines is out, bringing the beloved horror franchise back nearly a decade after its last instalment. The trailer offers a glimpse into the bizarre and horrifying ways that Death &lsquo;evens the books&rsquo; once again.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/47-off-23-balls-pbks-gen-z-batter-priyansh-arya-bought-at-13-times-of-base-price-sparks-on-ipl-debut-in-pbks-vs-gt-today-8890126">'47 off 23 balls': Bought at 13 times of base price, PBKS Gen Z batter Priyansh Arya sparks on IPL debut</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/25/psxb1NVQ7rqENeIjrjqA.png" alt=" Priyansh Arya dazzled on IPL debut for PBKS Photograph: (IPL) ">
Punjab Kings opening batter Priyansh Arya showed in his debut match during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 that why was he bought for nearly 13 times of his base price at the auction. The 24-year-old Delhi-based batter scored 47 off 23 balls - missing a well-deserved 50 by just three runs.

Stay informed with our curated list of the top international headlines, bringing you the most impactful and newsworthy stories from around the world.

Russia and Ukraine have separately agreed to avoid military action against ships in the Black Sea following Saudi Arabia talks, said the White House. In other news, US President Donald Trump dismissed the accidental leak of Yemen air strikes to a journalist as a minor mistake. Meanwhile, a video of an Israeli diplomat, David Roet, has gone viral on social media, suggesting there should be a 'death sentence' for Palestinian teens involved in the Gaza war. Click on the headlines for more Ukraine-Russia ceasefire breakthrough: Saudi talks with US yield Black Sea truce, White House confirms Russia and Ukraine have separately agreed to avoid military action against ships in the Black Sea, following talks that ended on Tuesday in Saudi Arabia, according to the White House. Trump downplays US war plan leak as 'unserious glitch,' defends advisor: 'Waltz learned a lesson' US President Donald Trump has dismissed the accidental inclusion of a journalist in a group chat about Yemen air strikes as a minor mistake, describing it as a "glitch". Despite the incident, he continues to back his senior national security officials. 'There should be a death sentence' to Palestinian teens involved in Gaza war: Did Israeli envoy David Roet say this? Find out There is a video going viral on social media, claiming to show David Roet, an Israeli diplomat, suggesting that there should be a 'death sentence' for Palestinian teens involved in the Gaza war. While much of the audio is not entirely audible, it appears he was speaking in the context of teenagers using guns and grenades to fight against Israel in the ongoing Gaza war against the Hamas militant group. Democrats want Hegseth, Waltz to resign over war plan leak; Gabbard claims 'no classified material' in Signal chat US Democrats began to grill President Donald Trump's top intelligence officials on Tuesday (March 25) over the group chat which had a discussion over Houthi war plans. Facebook blocked in THIS country over ‘fake news, hate speech, and porn’; government warns it’s national threat The government of Papua New Guinea has temporarily blocked access to Facebook as part of what it calls a “test” aimed at reducing hate speech, misinformation, pornography, and other harmful material online. Supreme Court takes suo motu notice of Allahbad HC ruling ‘grabbing breasts not rape attempt’ The Indian Supreme Court on Tuesday (Mar 15) has taken suo motu cognizance of a controversial rulling by the Allahbad High Court, which said that grabbing breasts and breaking pyjama strings did not amount to rape or attempt to rape. The HC’s verdict came on March 17 in a case involving an 11-year-old girl, sparking outrage from legal experts, political leaders and activists. 'Woke up half-naked': Former hostage shares harrowing account of sexual assault by Hamas militants in Gaza A former hostage has come up and shared her harrowing experience of being sexually assaulted during her abduction to Gaza by Hamas militants on October 7, 2023. ‘Why didn’t anyone help her?’ Violent attack on Indian origin woman in Canada sparks debate on social media In a shocking incident, a woman was violently attacked in Canada’s Calgary train station platform as the bystanders watched in silence. The video of the assault surfaced on social media and has been widely shared online, sparking outrage as no one seemed to help the woman, who appears to be of Indian origin. First trailer for Final Destination Bloodlines is here to traumatise a new generation The first trailer for Final Destination: Bloodlines is out, bringing the beloved horror franchise back nearly a decade after its last instalment. The trailer offers a glimpse into the bizarre and horrifying ways that Death ‘evens the books’ once again. '47 off 23 balls': Bought at 13 times of base price, PBKS Gen Z batter Priyansh Arya sparks on IPL debut Punjab Kings opening batter Priyansh Arya showed in his debut match during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 that why was he bought for nearly 13 times of his base price at the auction. The 24-year-old Delhi-based batter scored 47 off 23 balls - missing a well-deserved 50 by just three runs.

Top 10 world news: Ukraine-Russia ceasefire breakthrough; Trump downplays US war plan leak, and more

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that he reiterated his invitation for US Vice President JD Vance to visit Ukraine during a recent telephone conversation, according to an interview published in Time magazine.
During a tense argument at the White House on his US visit on February 28, Zelensky had invited Vance to visit his country to see the consequences of war with Russia with his own eyes. However, Vance responded that he &ldquo;had seen the stories&rdquo; and was aware of the situation on the ground.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-being-a-good-ally-jd-vances-remarks-on-denmark-resurface-as-second-lady-set-to-visit-greenland-8886141">&lsquo;Not being a good ally&rsquo;: JD Vance&rsquo;s remarks on Denmark resurface as Second Lady set to visit Greenland</a>
The US vice president said that he refused to visit Ukraine because Zelensky&rsquo;s government allegedly organises &ldquo;propaganda tours&rdquo;, showing destruction in the nation caused by Russia.
According to The Kyiv Independent report, Zelensky told Vance during the recent phone call, &ldquo;We&rsquo;re still waiting for you.&rdquo; The American official, however, did not reply.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/usha-vance-to-visit-greenland-with-delegation-including-mike-waltz-only-purpose-is-to-show-8884160">Usha&nbsp;Vance to visit Greenland with delegation including Mike Waltz: 'Only purpose is to show...'</a>
Vance has time and again criticised Ukraine and Zelensky in the past, reiterating Kremlin&rsquo;s take at times. He also said that he &ldquo;doesn&rsquo;t care about Ukraine&rdquo; on multiple occasions, including days after Russia began its invasion of Ukraine.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/10-hours-3-breaks-high-stakes-us-russia-talks-on-ukraine-ceasefire-drag-on-behind-closed-doors-in-saudi-8886864">10 hours, 3 breaks: High-stakes US-Russia talks on Ukraine ceasefire drag on behind closed doors in Saudi</a>
<h2>Ceasefire discussions</h2>
Washington and Kyiv had earlier backed a 30-day ceasefire to halt ground operations, but Moscow refused to accept it unless it included a suspension of foreign military support for Ukraine and other terms that would weaken Ukraine&rsquo;s defences.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-wants-to-restore-black-sea-grain-deal-with-ukraine-what-is-it-and-why-did-moscow-back-out-the-first-time-8885784">Russia wants to restore 'Black Sea Grain deal' with Ukraine: What is it and why did Moscow back out the first time?</a>
Meanwhile, Russia and the US began talks on a ceasefire in Riyadh on Monday (Mar 24). The discussions are aimed at a ceasefire in the Black Sea and broader truce negotiations, according to Reuters. A day earlier, the US and Ukraine officials held talks in Saudi Arabia.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The US vice president said that he refused to visit Ukraine because Zelensky’s government allegedly organises “propaganda tours”, showing destruction in the nation caused by Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that he reiterated his invitation for US Vice President JD Vance to visit Ukraine during a recent telephone conversation, according to an interview published in Time magazine. During a tense argument at the White House on his US visit on February 28, Zelensky had invited Vance to visit his country to see the consequences of war with Russia with his own eyes. However, Vance responded that he “had seen the stories” and was aware of the situation on the ground. Also read | ‘Not being a good ally’: JD Vance’s remarks on Denmark resurface as Second Lady set to visit Greenland The US vice president said that he refused to visit Ukraine because Zelensky’s government allegedly organises “propaganda tours”, showing destruction in the nation caused by Russia. According to The Kyiv Independent report, Zelensky told Vance during the recent phone call, “We’re still waiting for you.” The American official, however, did not reply. Also read | Usha Vance to visit Greenland with delegation including Mike Waltz: 'Only purpose is to show...' Vance has time and again criticised Ukraine and Zelensky in the past, reiterating Kremlin’s take at times. He also said that he “doesn’t care about Ukraine” on multiple occasions, including days after Russia began its invasion of Ukraine. Also read | 10 hours, 3 breaks: High-stakes US-Russia talks on Ukraine ceasefire drag on behind closed doors in Saudi Ceasefire discussions Washington and Kyiv had earlier backed a 30-day ceasefire to halt ground operations, but Moscow refused to accept it unless it included a suspension of foreign military support for Ukraine and other terms that would weaken Ukraine’s defences. Also read | Russia wants to restore 'Black Sea Grain deal' with Ukraine: What is it and why did Moscow back out the first time? Meanwhile, Russia and the US began talks on a ceasefire in Riyadh on Monday (Mar 24). The discussions are aimed at a ceasefire in the Black Sea and broader truce negotiations, according to Reuters. A day earlier, the US and Ukraine officials held talks in Saudi Arabia. (With inputs from agencies)

‘We’re still waiting for you’: Zelensky says he invited JD Vance again to visit Ukraine

US President Donald Trump declared any country purchasing oil or gas from Venezuela will face a 25 per cent tariff on all trade with the United States from 2 April 2025.
In other news, more than 1,100 people, including journalists, have been detained by Turkish police after mass protests broke out following the arrest of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan&rsquo;s main political rival.
Meanwhile, Russia and the United States are holding discussions in Riyadh for a possible ceasefire in Ukraine.
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/very-hostile-trump-vows-25-tariff-on-countries-buying-oil-from-venezuela-8886461">'Very hostile': Trump vows 25% tariff on countries buying oil from Venezuela</a>
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US President Donald Trump has declared that from 2 April 2025, any country purchasing oil or gas from Venezuela will face a 25 per cent tariff on all trade with the United States. The move marks a further escalation in Trump&rsquo;s trade disputes with both rivals and long-standing allies.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-triggered-mass-protests-in-turkey-over-1100-detained-after-opposition-leader-imamoglu-arrested-8886626">What triggered mass protests in Turkey? Over 1,100 detained after opposition leader Imamoglu arrested</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/24/usm0YuNfwzyubU55dVkA.png" alt=" The unrest, described as the most serious in years, began in Istanbul after the detention of Ekrem Imamoglu, and has since spread to over 55 of Turkey&rsquo;s 81 provinces. Photograph: (AFP) ">
More than 1,100 people, including journalists, have been detained by Turkish police after mass protests broke out following the arrest of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan&rsquo;s main political rival, according to a government minister on Monday.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-wants-to-restore-black-sea-grain-deal-with-ukraine-what-is-it-and-why-did-moscow-back-out-the-first-time-8885784">Russia wants to restore 'Black Sea Grain deal' with Ukraine: What is it and why did Moscow back out the first time?</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/29/3dRQBDOLyvxL8gMTsWje.jpg" alt=" Russia wants to restore 'Black Sea Grain deal' with Ukraine: What is it and why did Moscow back out the first time? Photograph: (AFP) ">
Russia and the United States are holding discussions in Riyadh for a possible ceasefire in Ukraine. Aside from truce talks, both parties are set to discuss restarting a key agreement aimed at protecting merchant shipping in the Black Sea, the Kremlin announced on Monday (March 24). Moscow said that it believes important parts of the original deal were never fulfilled.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/houthis-vs-trump-latest-who-are-houthis-and-will-war-expand-to-israel-uae-saudi-iran-after-trump-warning-to-iran-8885607">Who are Houthis, directly challenging Trump's mighty military? Leaders taken out, missiles fly, war to expand?</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/02/19/183529-houthis.jpg" alt=" Houthis in direct confrontation with the US (File picture) ">
Houthis vs Trump confrontation could expand to regional war? Houthis, the Iran-backed rebels of Yemen, are in direct confrontation with the US military in a fight that has intensified since President Donald Trump ordered air strikes on March 15. In the latest developments, the US national security advisor Mike Waltz said the strikes on Yemen have taken out some key Houthi leaders including their top missile specialist.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-being-a-good-ally-jd-vances-remarks-on-denmark-resurface-as-second-lady-set-to-visit-greenland-8886141">&lsquo;Not being a good ally&rsquo;: JD Vance&rsquo;s remarks on Denmark resurface as Second Lady set to visit Greenland</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/14/B3F0hFGEHS7tX6YuGM8m.png" alt=" US Vice President JD Vance and his wife Usha Vance. Photograph: (AFP) ">
US Vice President JD Vance&rsquo;s comments attacking Denmark for not being a &ldquo;good ally&rdquo; have resurfaced again as his wife is set to visit the island country this week.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-vs-grok-3-will-modi-govt-ban-the-sharp-tongued-ai-bot-of-elon-musks-x-8885024">India vs Grok 3: Will Modi govt ban the sharp-tongued AI bot of Elon Musk's X? Your questions, answered</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/21/al3VYjaQHPovHugasYVR.png" alt=" Elon Musk's AI chatbot Grok has gained massive attention in India and elsewhere since its launch. Internet users on social media platform X were seen asking not-so-normal questions to the chatbot. Photograph: (Reuters ) ">
There has been intense debate in India on Grok 3, the sharp-tongued AI chatbot of Elon Musk's social media platform X, which has been churning out answers to controversial and often politically sensitive questions. Depending on their political leanings, both the right-wing and left-wing observers and politicians have been interpreting Grok 3's responses to suit their narratives.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-130-year-old-hindu-temple-in-malaysia-faces-demolition-threat-to-make-way-for-a-mosque-8885684">A 130-year-old Hindu temple in Malaysia faces demolition threat, to make way for a mosque</a>
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A 130-year-old Hindu temple in Malyasia&rsquo;s capital is facing the threat of being razed and relocated as the prime land it occupies in the heart of Kuala Lumpur has been sold to textile giant Jakel, which plans to build a mosque on the site.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/getting-a-us-student-visa-just-got-harder-f-1-rejections-hit-10-year-high-with-40-of-applicants-denied-8885707">Getting a US student visa just got harder: F-1 rejections hit 10-year high with 40% of applicants denied</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/24/UGv4xKq02LFlWouepP8e.jpg" alt=" Representative image. Photograph: (Freepik) ">
Amid US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s crackdown against immigration and tariffs, a recent analysis of State Department data revealed that US F-1 visa denials have soared high at 41 per cent in the last fiscal year. According to The Indian Express, the rejection rate has nearly doubled to that of the 2014 fiscal year.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/new-parents-alert-kl-rahul-and-athiya-shetty-welcome-baby-girl-8886498">New parents alert! KL Rahul and Athiya Shetty welcome baby girl</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2023/11/13/392797-horizons-2023-11-13t173128352.jpg" alt=" Athiya Shetty and KL Rahul Photograph: (X) ">
Good news as we have another Bollywood couple become parents this year. Actor Athiya Shetty and her cricketer husband KL Rahul have become parents to a baby girl. Making the announcement, the couple took to Instagram.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ms-dhoni-on-his-relationship-with-virat-kohli-we-are-friends-but-theres-still-a-line-8886559">MS Dhoni on his relationship with Kohli - &lsquo;We are friends but there&rsquo;s still a line&hellip;&rsquo;</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/24/WYiNCy6v1GYtGjzhrazP.jpg" alt=" MS Dhoni on his relationship with Kohli - &lsquo;We are friends but there&rsquo;s still a line&hellip;&rsquo; Photograph: (Others) ">
MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli are two cult figures in Indian cricket. While one is the most successful Indian captain, winning three out of the four ICC trophies, the other is the country's most prolific ODI run-scorer, having hit 51 centuries and counting. The two have shared the dressing room for over a decade, playing alongside and against each other since 2008.

Uncover the latest developments from every corner of the world. Our top stories bring you the headlines that matter, offering a snapshot of global events.

US President Donald Trump declared any country purchasing oil or gas from Venezuela will face a 25 per cent tariff on all trade with the United States from 2 April 2025. In other news, more than 1,100 people, including journalists, have been detained by Turkish police after mass protests broke out following the arrest of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s main political rival. Meanwhile, Russia and the United States are holding discussions in Riyadh for a possible ceasefire in Ukraine. Click on the headlines for more 'Very hostile': Trump vows 25% tariff on countries buying oil from Venezuela US President Donald Trump has declared that from 2 April 2025, any country purchasing oil or gas from Venezuela will face a 25 per cent tariff on all trade with the United States. The move marks a further escalation in Trump’s trade disputes with both rivals and long-standing allies. What triggered mass protests in Turkey? Over 1,100 detained after opposition leader Imamoglu arrested More than 1,100 people, including journalists, have been detained by Turkish police after mass protests broke out following the arrest of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s main political rival, according to a government minister on Monday. Russia wants to restore 'Black Sea Grain deal' with Ukraine: What is it and why did Moscow back out the first time? Russia and the United States are holding discussions in Riyadh for a possible ceasefire in Ukraine. Aside from truce talks, both parties are set to discuss restarting a key agreement aimed at protecting merchant shipping in the Black Sea, the Kremlin announced on Monday (March 24). Moscow said that it believes important parts of the original deal were never fulfilled. Who are Houthis, directly challenging Trump's mighty military? Leaders taken out, missiles fly, war to expand? Houthis vs Trump confrontation could expand to regional war? Houthis, the Iran-backed rebels of Yemen, are in direct confrontation with the US military in a fight that has intensified since President Donald Trump ordered air strikes on March 15. In the latest developments, the US national security advisor Mike Waltz said the strikes on Yemen have taken out some key Houthi leaders including their top missile specialist. ‘Not being a good ally’: JD Vance’s remarks on Denmark resurface as Second Lady set to visit Greenland US Vice President JD Vance’s comments attacking Denmark for not being a “good ally” have resurfaced again as his wife is set to visit the island country this week. India vs Grok 3: Will Modi govt ban the sharp-tongued AI bot of Elon Musk's X? Your questions, answered There has been intense debate in India on Grok 3, the sharp-tongued AI chatbot of Elon Musk's social media platform X, which has been churning out answers to controversial and often politically sensitive questions. Depending on their political leanings, both the right-wing and left-wing observers and politicians have been interpreting Grok 3's responses to suit their narratives. A 130-year-old Hindu temple in Malaysia faces demolition threat, to make way for a mosque A 130-year-old Hindu temple in Malyasia’s capital is facing the threat of being razed and relocated as the prime land it occupies in the heart of Kuala Lumpur has been sold to textile giant Jakel, which plans to build a mosque on the site. Getting a US student visa just got harder: F-1 rejections hit 10-year high with 40% of applicants denied Amid US President Donald Trump’s crackdown against immigration and tariffs, a recent analysis of State Department data revealed that US F-1 visa denials have soared high at 41 per cent in the last fiscal year. According to The Indian Express, the rejection rate has nearly doubled to that of the 2014 fiscal year. New parents alert! KL Rahul and Athiya Shetty welcome baby girl Good news as we have another Bollywood couple become parents this year. Actor Athiya Shetty and her cricketer husband KL Rahul have become parents to a baby girl. Making the announcement, the couple took to Instagram. MS Dhoni on his relationship with Kohli - ‘We are friends but there’s still a line…’ MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli are two cult figures in Indian cricket. While one is the most successful Indian captain, winning three out of the four ICC trophies, the other is the country's most prolific ODI run-scorer, having hit 51 centuries and counting. The two have shared the dressing room for over a decade, playing alongside and against each other since 2008.

Top 10 world news: Trump vows 25% tariff on countries buying oil from Venezuela; Turkey mass protests, and more

US and Russian officials have begun talks in Saudi Arabia marking another step in US President Donald Trump's attempts to negotiate a limited ceasefire in Ukraine, a move Washington hopes could be the first step towards lasting peace.
Following talks with both Ukrainian and Russian leaders last week, Trump helped secure an agreement in principle for a one-month halt to attacks on energy infrastructure. 
However, questions remain over when the ceasefire will begin and whether it will cover more than just power plants, such as hospitals, bridges, and other key services.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-ukraine-hold-talks-in-riyadh-as-us-envoy-expresses-optimism-on-ending-war-before-russia-meeting-8883474">US-Ukraine hold talks in Riyadh as US envoy expresses optimism on ending war before Russia meeting</a>
<h2>US-Ukraine meet</h2>
The initial meeting between US and Ukrainian officials took place on Sunday evening, with American delegates holding separate talks with Russian representatives on Monday. 
US officials are expected to move between the two delegations to finalise the agreement, and also discuss separate arrangements for securing shipping routes in the Black Sea. 
&ldquo;The ultimate goal is a 30-day ceasefire, during which time we discuss a permanent ceasefire. We&rsquo;re not far away from that,&rdquo; said US special envoy Steve Witkoff in an interview with far-right commentator Tucker Carlson over the weekend.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-shuttlecock-diplomacy-and-why-is-the-us-using-it-to-broker-ceasefire-between-russia-and-ukraine-8883063">What is 'shuttlecock diplomacy', and why is the US using it to broker ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine?</a>
Ukraine&rsquo;s defence minister confirmed that the talks included proposals aimed at protecting the country&rsquo;s energy and critical infrastructure. President Volodymyr Zelensky described the Sunday meeting as &ldquo;quite useful,&rdquo; and said Ukraine&rsquo;s delegation was working in &ldquo;a completely constructive manner.&rdquo;
Zelenskyy also said that he had given the United States a list of energy facilities that should be off-limits to Russian attacks. Additional meetings between Ukrainian and American officials could take place on Monday. 
&ldquo;We are implementing the President of Ukraine&rsquo;s directive to bring a just peace closer and to strengthen security,&rdquo; said Rustem Umerov, Ukraine&rsquo;s defence minister, in a Facebook post.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/preposterous-trump-envoy-witkoff-dismisses-starmers-ukraine-plan-as-zelensky-urges-new-pressure-on-russia-8882862">&lsquo;Preposterous&rsquo;: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer&rsquo;s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia</a>
<h2>Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine</h2>
Meanwhile, Russia appears to be intensifying its attacks before any agreement is reached. Over the weekend, a large-scale drone assault on Kyiv killed at least three people, highlighting the continuing danger on the ground.
Moscow continues to demand conditions that Kyiv and its allies have rejected outright, such as ending all foreign military aid, reducing the size of Ukraine&rsquo;s armed forces, and recognising Russia&rsquo;s annexation of the four occupied regions.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/difficult-negotiations-ahead-russia-downplays-ukraine-peace-talks-before-us-meeting-8882678">&lsquo;Difficult negotiations&rsquo; ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting</a>
The Kremlin has also made it clear that it would not tolerate any presence of Western troops in Ukraine, while Kyiv sees such forces as essential for ensuring lasting security.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Following talks with both Ukrainian and Russian leaders last week, Trump helped secure an agreement in principle for a one-month halt to attacks on energy infrastructure.

US and Russian officials have begun talks in Saudi Arabia marking another step in US President Donald Trump's attempts to negotiate a limited ceasefire in Ukraine, a move Washington hopes could be the first step towards lasting peace. Following talks with both Ukrainian and Russian leaders last week, Trump helped secure an agreement in principle for a one-month halt to attacks on energy infrastructure. However, questions remain over when the ceasefire will begin and whether it will cover more than just power plants, such as hospitals, bridges, and other key services. Also read: US-Ukraine hold talks in Riyadh as US envoy expresses optimism on ending war before Russia meeting US-Ukraine meet The initial meeting between US and Ukrainian officials took place on Sunday evening, with American delegates holding separate talks with Russian representatives on Monday. US officials are expected to move between the two delegations to finalise the agreement, and also discuss separate arrangements for securing shipping routes in the Black Sea. “The ultimate goal is a 30-day ceasefire, during which time we discuss a permanent ceasefire. We’re not far away from that,” said US special envoy Steve Witkoff in an interview with far-right commentator Tucker Carlson over the weekend. Also read: What is 'shuttlecock diplomacy', and why is the US using it to broker ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine? Ukraine’s defence minister confirmed that the talks included proposals aimed at protecting the country’s energy and critical infrastructure. President Volodymyr Zelensky described the Sunday meeting as “quite useful,” and said Ukraine’s delegation was working in “a completely constructive manner.” Zelenskyy also said that he had given the United States a list of energy facilities that should be off-limits to Russian attacks. Additional meetings between Ukrainian and American officials could take place on Monday. “We are implementing the President of Ukraine’s directive to bring a just peace closer and to strengthen security,” said Rustem Umerov, Ukraine’s defence minister, in a Facebook post. Also read: ‘Preposterous’: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer’s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine Meanwhile, Russia appears to be intensifying its attacks before any agreement is reached. Over the weekend, a large-scale drone assault on Kyiv killed at least three people, highlighting the continuing danger on the ground. Moscow continues to demand conditions that Kyiv and its allies have rejected outright, such as ending all foreign military aid, reducing the size of Ukraine’s armed forces, and recognising Russia’s annexation of the four occupied regions. Also read: ‘Difficult negotiations’ ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting The Kremlin has also made it clear that it would not tolerate any presence of Western troops in Ukraine, while Kyiv sees such forces as essential for ensuring lasting security. (With inputs from agencies)

US and Russia talks on Ukraine peace deal underway in Saudi Arabia: Trump-brokered ceasefire in sight?

Ukraine and the US officials started talks in Saudi Arabia on Sunday (Mar 23) on a partial ceasefire in the war with Russia as Washington hopes for &ldquo;real progress&rdquo; but the Kremlin warns of &ldquo;difficult negotiations&rdquo;.
US officials will hold separate technical-level discussions with Russian officials on Monday (Mar 24) in Riyadh, which could pave the way to a breakthrough to end the three-year war.
Despite the different proposals for a temporary ceasefire, the fighting has continued. A recent Russian strike on the Ukrainian capital killed three civilians while Ukrainian drone strikes in Russia resulted in two deaths, according to officials.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/starmer-faced-pressure-from-us-to-slam-zelensky-after-oval-office-clash-with-trump-report-8883070">Starmer faced pressure from US to slam Zelensky after Oval Office clash with Trump: Report</a>
Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov confirmed that talks with US officials got underway in Riyadh on Sunday evening.
&ldquo;The agenda includes proposals to protect energy facilities and critical infrastructure,&rdquo; he said on Facebook, adding the teams were &ldquo;working through a number of complex technical issues.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/preposterous-trump-envoy-witkoff-dismisses-starmers-ukraine-plan-as-zelensky-urges-new-pressure-on-russia-8882862">&lsquo;Preposterous&rsquo;: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer&rsquo;s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia</a>
<h2>US envoy hopeful on talks</h2>
US special envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism ahead of the talks.
&ldquo;I feel that (Russian President Vladimir Putin) wants peace,&rdquo; he told Fox News on Sunday (Mar 23).&nbsp;
&ldquo;I think that you&rsquo;re going to see in Saudi Arabia on Monday some real progress, particularly as it affects a Black Sea ceasefire on ships between both countries. And from that, you&rsquo;ll naturally gravitate into a full-on shooting ceasefire,&rdquo; he said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/difficult-negotiations-ahead-russia-downplays-ukraine-peace-talks-before-us-meeting-8882678">&lsquo;Difficult negotiations&rsquo; ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting</a>
<h2>Kremlin says talks only at beginning</h2>
However, Kremlin downplayed expectations, saying that talks were just beginning.
&ldquo;We are only at the beginning of this path,&rdquo; Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian state TV. He added that there were many outstanding &ldquo;questions&rdquo; and &ldquo;nuances&rdquo; over how a potential ceasefire might take place.
&ldquo;There are difficult negotiations ahead,&rdquo; Peskov said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-prayed-for-trump-after-assassination-attempt-says-top-us-envoy-steve-witkoff-8880576">Putin prayed for Trump after assassination attempt, says top US envoy Steve Witkoff</a>
While the US and Ukraine called for a full and immediate 30-day pause, Russian President Vladimir Putin has rejected the proposal, insisting on a halt in attacks only on energy facilities.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RussiaUkraineWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RussiaUkraineWar</a>: Russia intensifies strikes on Ukraine in a 'revenge' assault Meanwhile, Ukraine and US teams begin talks in Saudi Arabia, with the US envoy hopeful for a swift end to the war<a href="https://twitter.com/eriknjoka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@eriknjoka</a> brings you this report <a href="https://t.co/QWevtLyITv">pic.twitter.com/QWevtLyITv</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1903864558466310185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

(With inputs from agencies)

World | US officials will hold separate technical-level discussions with Russian officials on Monday (Mar 24) in Riyadh, which could pave the way to a breakthrough to end the three-year war.

Ukraine and the US officials started talks in Saudi Arabia on Sunday (Mar 23) on a partial ceasefire in the war with Russia as Washington hopes for “real progress” but the Kremlin warns of “difficult negotiations”. US officials will hold separate technical-level discussions with Russian officials on Monday (Mar 24) in Riyadh, which could pave the way to a breakthrough to end the three-year war. Despite the different proposals for a temporary ceasefire, the fighting has continued. A recent Russian strike on the Ukrainian capital killed three civilians while Ukrainian drone strikes in Russia resulted in two deaths, according to officials. Also read | Starmer faced pressure from US to slam Zelensky after Oval Office clash with Trump: Report Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov confirmed that talks with US officials got underway in Riyadh on Sunday evening. “The agenda includes proposals to protect energy facilities and critical infrastructure,” he said on Facebook, adding the teams were “working through a number of complex technical issues.” Also read | ‘Preposterous’: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer’s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia US envoy hopeful on talks US special envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism ahead of the talks. “I feel that (Russian President Vladimir Putin) wants peace,” he told Fox News on Sunday (Mar 23). “I think that you’re going to see in Saudi Arabia on Monday some real progress, particularly as it affects a Black Sea ceasefire on ships between both countries. And from that, you’ll naturally gravitate into a full-on shooting ceasefire,” he said. Also read | ‘Difficult negotiations’ ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting Kremlin says talks only at beginning However, Kremlin downplayed expectations, saying that talks were just beginning. “We are only at the beginning of this path,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian state TV. He added that there were many outstanding “questions” and “nuances” over how a potential ceasefire might take place. “There are difficult negotiations ahead,” Peskov said. Also read | Putin prayed for Trump after assassination attempt, says top US envoy Steve Witkoff While the US and Ukraine called for a full and immediate 30-day pause, Russian President Vladimir Putin has rejected the proposal, insisting on a halt in attacks only on energy facilities. #RussiaUkraineWar: Russia intensifies strikes on Ukraine in a 'revenge' assault Meanwhile, Ukraine and US teams begin talks in Saudi Arabia, with the US envoy hopeful for a swift end to the war@eriknjoka brings you this report pic.twitter.com/QWevtLyITv — WION (@WIONews) March 23, 2025 (With inputs from agencies)

US-Ukraine hold talks in Riyadh as US envoy expresses optimism on ending war before Russia meeting

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised continued Russian strikes on his country despite a partial ceasefire agreement last week ahead of US-Ukraine talks on Sunday (Mar 23).
US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff said on Sunday (Mar 23) that he may have been &ldquo;duped&rdquo; by Hamas as he initially believed the militant group agreed to his bridge proposal but rejected it later.
Elon Musk&rsquo;s companies are set to benefit massively as the Trump administration continues to align policies with the billionaire's interests.
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/preposterous-trump-envoy-witkoff-dismisses-starmers-ukraine-plan-as-zelensky-urges-new-pressure-on-russia-8882862">&lsquo;Preposterous&rsquo;: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer&rsquo;s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia</a>
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised continued Russian strikes on his country, saying such attacks remain a "daily reality" even after a partial ceasefire agreement last week.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-special-envoy-witkoff-says-hamas-duped-him-as-he-blames-renewed-attack-in-gaza-on-militant-group-8883301">US special envoy Witkoff says Hamas &lsquo;duped&rsquo; him as he blames renewed attack in Gaza on militant group</a>
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US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff said on Sunday (Mar 23) &nbsp;that he may have been &ldquo;duped&rdquo; by Hamas as he initially believed the Palestinian militant group agreed to his bridge proposal to extend the ceasefire in Gaza, only for it to reject the &ldquo;acceptable deal&rdquo;.
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Elon Musk&rsquo;s companies are set to benefit massively from a wave of new federal contracts and support across several key US government departments, as the Trump administration continues to align policies with Musk&rsquo;s interests, as per The New York Times report.
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The United States is engaging in what&rsquo;s known as &lsquo;shuttlecock diplomacy&rsquo; as it holds separate meetings with Ukrainian and Russian delegations to explore a possible ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war.
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US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Mar 23) reshared an X post by his close aide Elon Musk, suggesting he backs the claim made by the billionaire claiming a political party in South Africa is &ldquo;actively promoting white genocide&rdquo;. Interestingly, the Tesla CEO&rsquo;s claims were fact-checked by his own Grok AI, which said that some of his claims were not completely true and one was false, according to a Grok conversation link posted by a user.
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United States&rsquo; NATO allies, including Canada, Denmark, Germany, Finland and the United Kingdom, have issued fresh travel advisories for their citizens amid US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s immigration crackdown.
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Discover the most impactful global stories with our roundup of the top news highlights, providing insights and updates from around the world to keep you informed.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised continued Russian strikes on his country despite a partial ceasefire agreement last week ahead of US-Ukraine talks on Sunday (Mar 23). US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff said on Sunday (Mar 23) that he may have been “duped” by Hamas as he initially believed the militant group agreed to his bridge proposal but rejected it later. Elon Musk’s companies are set to benefit massively as the Trump administration continues to align policies with the billionaire's interests. Click on the headlines for more ‘Preposterous’: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer’s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised continued Russian strikes on his country, saying such attacks remain a "daily reality" even after a partial ceasefire agreement last week. US special envoy Witkoff says Hamas ‘duped’ him as he blames renewed attack in Gaza on militant group US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff said on Sunday (Mar 23) that he may have been “duped” by Hamas as he initially believed the Palestinian militant group agreed to his bridge proposal to extend the ceasefire in Gaza, only for it to reject the “acceptable deal”. ‘Elon getting whatever Elon wants’: How Musk’s $300 million bet on Trump could make him billions Elon Musk’s companies are set to benefit massively from a wave of new federal contracts and support across several key US government departments, as the Trump administration continues to align policies with Musk’s interests, as per The New York Times report. Starmer faced pressure from US to slam Zelensky after Oval Office clash with Trump: Report British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has revealed that he faced pressure from Washington to criticise President Volodymyr Zelensky after the latter’s showdown with President Donald Trump in the Oval Office led to the Ukrainian president walking out of the White House early. What is 'shuttlecock diplomacy', and why is the US using it to broker ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine? The United States is engaging in what’s known as ‘shuttlecock diplomacy’ as it holds separate meetings with Ukrainian and Russian delegations to explore a possible ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war. Trump backs Musk's claim of ‘white genocide’ in South Africa, Grok fact-check calls them out US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Mar 23) reshared an X post by his close aide Elon Musk, suggesting he backs the claim made by the billionaire claiming a political party in South Africa is “actively promoting white genocide”. Interestingly, the Tesla CEO’s claims were fact-checked by his own Grok AI, which said that some of his claims were not completely true and one was false, according to a Grok conversation link posted by a user. After European nations, Canada warns citizens travelling to US amid Trump's immigration crackdown United States’ NATO allies, including Canada, Denmark, Germany, Finland and the United Kingdom, have issued fresh travel advisories for their citizens amid US President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown. Pope Francis makes first public appearance in five weeks as he leaves hospital Pope Francis makes first public appearance on Sunday (Mar 23) from the hospital balcony before being discharged to bless the crowd since being admitted on February 14. The 88-year-old pontiff has been battling against pneumonia for five weeks. Who is Elsie Hewitt? Pete Davidson confirms romance with model following viral NSFW pics Pete Davidson is living it up with a new romance. Confirming he’s with a new girl, Pete shared some snaps with current partner Elsie Hewitt. IPL 2025: Kishan enjoys ‘freedom at SRH’; credits Cummins and management for trusting him It was all about Ishan Kishan till Sunday evening, and didn’t he enjoy it? SunRisers Hyderabad’s latest superstar smashed a hundred on his debut for the franchise, saying the freedom he got at his new IPL home brings the best out of him. His match-winning 106* helped the hosts beat Rajasthan Royals by 44 runs in their tournament opener, and Kishan had everyone but captain Pat Cummins to credit this win for, whom he thanked for backing him.

Top 10 world news: US-Ukraine talks on ceasefire today; US special envoy Witkoff says Hamas ‘duped’ him, and more

US President Donald Trump "fully supports" Israel's deadly air and ground operations in Gaza, the White House said.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told EU leaders that Russian President Vladimir Putin must stop making "unnecessary demands" that extend the war.
The Indian government on Thursday (March 20) said that it is in talks with X and Grok after Elon Musk's X sued India over alleged censorship.&nbsp;
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-fully-supports-israeli-actions-in-gaza-white-house-8874291">Trump 'fully supports' Israeli actions in Gaza: White House</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/22/VbLD5GUOr08bVZbLRIO2.jpg" alt=" US President Donald Trump Photograph: (AFP) ">
US President Donald Trump "fully supports" Israel's deadly resumption of air and ground operations in Gaza, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Thursday, blaming Hamas for the violence.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-tells-eu-leaders-russia-still-striking-energy-infrastructure-8873943">Putin must stop 'unnecessary demands' that prolong war, Zelensky tells EU</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/17/RLecupiv1TGy9IQ5QxOz.png" alt=" Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky Photograph: (Reuters ) ">
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Thursday (Mar 20), said that his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin must stop making "unnecessary demands" that extend the war.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-talks-with-x-grok-will-india-take-action-after-musks-x-sues-modi-govt-over-alleged-censorship-8874168">'In talks with X, Grok': Will India take action after Musk's X sues Modi govt over alleged censorship</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/20/wgdQ4IVsiJS3TOVMBmyf.png" alt=" PM Modi and Elon Musk Photograph: (Reuters) ">
The Indian government on Thursday (March 20) said that it is in talks with Elon Musk's X and Grok to determine which Indian law has been violated.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-us-to-hold-next-talks-on-sunday-or-early-next-week-kremlin-confirms-8873207">Russia says will hold talks with US in Riyadh on Monday</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/17/oivg1TVjPrrvZ0wTgLb2.png" alt=" US President Donald Trump and Russian counter Vladimir Putin Photograph: (Reuters ) ">
Russia and the US are set to hold another set of talks on Monday (March 24) or early next week, the Kremlin said on Thursday.&nbsp;
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<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/10/28/462971-ayatollah-ali-khamenei.png" alt=" Iran's Khamenei says US strikes on Yemen 'a crime that must be stopped'">
Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on Thursday (Mar 20), said that the deadly US strikes on the Houthi rebels in Yemen were a "crime that must be stopped".
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-massive-explosion-erupts-as-ukrainian-drone-strike-russias-strategic-engels-airfield-8874001">VIDEO | Massive explosion erupts as Ukrainian drone strike Russia's strategic Engels airfield</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/20/UmDq8no4I82NxQhIfjLu.jpg" alt=" Screengrab from video. Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Ukraine on Thursday (Mar 20) struck a strategic Russian bomber airfield in Engels with drones. The massive attack triggered a huge blast and fire about 700 km (435 miles) from the front lines of the war, according to Russian and Ukrainian officials, as reported by Reuters.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-clarifies-tulsi-gabbards-misleading-and-damaging-remark-on-bangladesh-8873728">US clarifies Tulsi Gabbard&rsquo;s &lsquo;misleading and damaging&rsquo; remark on Bangladesh</a>
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US Department of State Spokesperson Tammy Bruce on Wednesday (Mar 19) condemned the violence against minorities in Bangladesh. When asked about recent remarks made by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, she said that Washington welcomes efforts by the interim government to reduce instances of violence.
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Elon Musk and Tesla are facing a &ldquo;brand tornado crisis moment&rdquo; and the electric vehicle company's CEO needs to cut back his work for US President Donald Trump to control the damage, one of the biggest supporters of the company said. This comes as Tesla announced the recalling of 46,000 Cybertrucks in the US on Thursday (Mar 20) to fix an exterior panel.
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Nearly five years after her tragic death, celebrity manager Disha Salian is back in the news. Disha&rsquo;s father, Satish Salian has stated that he has approached the Bombay High Court seeking a CBI probe into Disha's death and accused Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray of being involved in the alleged rape and murder of his daughter.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1/exclusive-chasing-speed-defying-barriers-how-kush-maini-is-putting-india-on-formula-1-map-8873926">Exclusive | Chasing speed, defying barriers: How Kush Maini is putting India on Formula 1 map</a>
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Kush Maini is a name that resonates with resilience, ambition, and an unwavering passion for motorsport. For Kush, racing isn&rsquo;t just a sport&mdash;it&rsquo;s a lifelong pursuit, a dream carved from years of dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering belief. Now, as Alpine&rsquo;s test and reserve driver, he stands at the doorstep of Formula One, a milestone that not only marks his personal achievement but also a proud moment for his country and family.

India news | Stay ahead of the curve with our top global stories that capture the essence of current world affairs and provide insightful context.

US President Donald Trump "fully supports" Israel's deadly air and ground operations in Gaza, the White House said. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told EU leaders that Russian President Vladimir Putin must stop making "unnecessary demands" that extend the war. The Indian government on Thursday (March 20) said that it is in talks with X and Grok after Elon Musk's X sued India over alleged censorship. Click on the headlines for more Trump 'fully supports' Israeli actions in Gaza: White House US President Donald Trump "fully supports" Israel's deadly resumption of air and ground operations in Gaza, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Thursday, blaming Hamas for the violence. Putin must stop 'unnecessary demands' that prolong war, Zelensky tells EU Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Thursday (Mar 20), said that his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin must stop making "unnecessary demands" that extend the war. 'In talks with X, Grok': Will India take action after Musk's X sues Modi govt over alleged censorship The Indian government on Thursday (March 20) said that it is in talks with Elon Musk's X and Grok to determine which Indian law has been violated. Russia says will hold talks with US in Riyadh on Monday Russia and the US are set to hold another set of talks on Monday (March 24) or early next week, the Kremlin said on Thursday. Iran's Khamenei says US strikes on Yemen 'a crime that must be stopped' Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on Thursday (Mar 20), said that the deadly US strikes on the Houthi rebels in Yemen were a "crime that must be stopped". VIDEO | Massive explosion erupts as Ukrainian drone strike Russia's strategic Engels airfield Ukraine on Thursday (Mar 20) struck a strategic Russian bomber airfield in Engels with drones. The massive attack triggered a huge blast and fire about 700 km (435 miles) from the front lines of the war, according to Russian and Ukrainian officials, as reported by Reuters. US clarifies Tulsi Gabbard’s ‘misleading and damaging’ remark on Bangladesh US Department of State Spokesperson Tammy Bruce on Wednesday (Mar 19) condemned the violence against minorities in Bangladesh. When asked about recent remarks made by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, she said that Washington welcomes efforts by the interim government to reduce instances of violence. ‘Musk needs to step back’: Tesla backer says CEO must reduce Trump work amid protests, dropping shares Elon Musk and Tesla are facing a “brand tornado crisis moment” and the electric vehicle company's CEO needs to cut back his work for US President Donald Trump to control the damage, one of the biggest supporters of the company said. This comes as Tesla announced the recalling of 46,000 Cybertrucks in the US on Thursday (Mar 20) to fix an exterior panel. Who was Disha Salian and why is her father blaming Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray for her death? Nearly five years after her tragic death, celebrity manager Disha Salian is back in the news. Disha’s father, Satish Salian has stated that he has approached the Bombay High Court seeking a CBI probe into Disha's death and accused Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray of being involved in the alleged rape and murder of his daughter. Exclusive | Chasing speed, defying barriers: How Kush Maini is putting India on Formula 1 map Kush Maini is a name that resonates with resilience, ambition, and an unwavering passion for motorsport. For Kush, racing isn’t just a sport—it’s a lifelong pursuit, a dream carved from years of dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering belief. Now, as Alpine’s test and reserve driver, he stands at the doorstep of Formula One, a milestone that not only marks his personal achievement but also a proud moment for his country and family.

Top 10 world news: Trump backs Israeli acts in Gaza; Zelensky says Putin must stop 'unnecessary demands', and more

Ukraine on Thursday (Mar 20) struck a strategic Russian bomber airfield in Engels with drones. The massive attack triggered a huge blast and fire about 700 km (435 miles) from the front lines of the war, according to Russian and Ukrainian officials, as reported by Reuters.
Videos shared on Telegram channels, which were verified by Reuters, showed a huge blast on the airbase as nearby cottages were wrecked. Some videos also showed a massive fire and thick clouds of smoke plummeting into the air in the early hours of the day.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-defence-of-ukraine-us-to-continue-sharing-intelligence-with-kyiv-as-talks-move-beyond-minerals-deal-8871103">'In defence of Ukraine': US to continue sharing intelligence with Kyiv as talks move beyond minerals deal</a>
According to Russia&rsquo;s defence ministry, the air defences shot down 132 Ukrainian drones over Russian regions.
The base in Engels, Saratov region hosts Russia's Tupolev Tu-160 nuclear-capable heavy strategic bombers, which are also unofficially known as White Swans, reported Reuters.
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Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-align-russia-ukraine-on-their-requests-trump-zelensky-hold-phone-call-to-discuss-putins-call-8870704">'Ukraine agrees to limited energy, infrastructure ceasefire' after Zelensky's 'frank conversation' with Trump</a>
<h2>Local state of emergency declared</h2>
A local state of emergency has been declared, said Engels district head Maxim Leonov. Details of the incident are not known. Ten people were injured in the attack, Reuters reported citing local officials. Some residents also found parts of Ukrainian drones in their gardens.&nbsp;
Saratov governor Roman Busargin said that a Ukrainian drone attack on the city of Engels resulted in a fire on the airfield. Although he did not specify which airfield, Engels base is the major one in the area. He also said that nearby residents were evacuated.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-us-to-hold-next-talks-on-sunday-or-early-next-week-kremlin-confirms-8873207">Russia says will hold talks with US in Riyadh on Monday</a>
The Ukrainian defence ministry said that its forces had attacked the airfield and triggered secondary detonation of ammunition. Russia had used the Engels base, which dates back to Soviet times, to carry out strikes on Ukraine, according to Kyiv.
<h2>Not the first attack on Engels air base</h2>
Ukraine has also targeted the Engels air base previously in December 2022. In January, Kyiv claimed it struck an oil depot that served the base. The attack caused a massive fire that took five days to put out.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-tells-eu-leaders-russia-still-striking-energy-infrastructure-8873943">Putin must stop 'unnecessary demands' that prolong war, Zelensky tells EU</a>
At that time, a drone attack had struck a storage facility holding guided bombs and missiles at the Engels base, Reuters reported citing a Ukrainian security source.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Videos shared on Telegram channels showed a huge blast on the airbase as nearby cottages were wrecked. Some videos also showed a massive fire and thick clouds of smoke plummeting into the air in the early hours of the day.

Ukraine on Thursday (Mar 20) struck a strategic Russian bomber airfield in Engels with drones. The massive attack triggered a huge blast and fire about 700 km (435 miles) from the front lines of the war, according to Russian and Ukrainian officials, as reported by Reuters. Videos shared on Telegram channels, which were verified by Reuters, showed a huge blast on the airbase as nearby cottages were wrecked. Some videos also showed a massive fire and thick clouds of smoke plummeting into the air in the early hours of the day. Also read | 'In defence of Ukraine': US to continue sharing intelligence with Kyiv as talks move beyond minerals deal According to Russia’s defence ministry, the air defences shot down 132 Ukrainian drones over Russian regions. The base in Engels, Saratov region hosts Russia's Tupolev Tu-160 nuclear-capable heavy strategic bombers, which are also unofficially known as White Swans, reported Reuters. View this post on Instagram A post shared by WION (@wionews) Also read | 'Ukraine agrees to limited energy, infrastructure ceasefire' after Zelensky's 'frank conversation' with Trump Local state of emergency declared A local state of emergency has been declared, said Engels district head Maxim Leonov. Details of the incident are not known. Ten people were injured in the attack, Reuters reported citing local officials. Some residents also found parts of Ukrainian drones in their gardens. Saratov governor Roman Busargin said that a Ukrainian drone attack on the city of Engels resulted in a fire on the airfield. Although he did not specify which airfield, Engels base is the major one in the area. He also said that nearby residents were evacuated. Also read | Russia says will hold talks with US in Riyadh on Monday The Ukrainian defence ministry said that its forces had attacked the airfield and triggered secondary detonation of ammunition. Russia had used the Engels base, which dates back to Soviet times, to carry out strikes on Ukraine, according to Kyiv. Not the first attack on Engels air base Ukraine has also targeted the Engels air base previously in December 2022. In January, Kyiv claimed it struck an oil depot that served the base. The attack caused a massive fire that took five days to put out. Also read | Putin must stop 'unnecessary demands' that prolong war, Zelensky tells EU At that time, a drone attack had struck a storage facility holding guided bombs and missiles at the Engels base, Reuters reported citing a Ukrainian security source. (With inputs from agencies)

VIDEO | Massive explosion erupts as Ukrainian drone strikes Russia's strategic Engels airfield

US President Donald Trump is expected to hold discussions this week with Russian President Vladimir Putin, as efforts to negotiate a ceasefire in Ukraine intensify. Trump&rsquo;s foreign envoy, Steve Witkoff, confirmed the likely conversation on Sunday (16 March).
&ldquo;I think the two presidents are going to have a really good and positive discussion this week,&rdquo; Witkoff told CNN during a televised interview. He also expressed optimism that a ceasefire agreement could be reached within weeks.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-coalition-of-the-willing-uk-keir-starmer-france-emmanuel-macron-nato-unite-to-push-russia-into-ceasefire-as-putin-stalls-8856438">'Will build Ukraine&rsquo;s own defences': UK, France, NATO unite to push Russia into ceasefire as Putin 'stalls'</a>
The anticipated call comes after a late-night meeting in Moscow last week between Witkoff and Putin. Describing the discussions as &ldquo;solution-based,&rdquo; Witkoff did not disclose specific conditions set by Putin for a ceasefire but admitted that Russian-occupied regions of Ukraine would be central to the negotiations.
The question of ceding land remains a key obstacle in the negotiations. While US officials have suggested Ukraine may need to surrender territory to secure peace, Putin has made it a prerequisite for any ceasefire.
However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has consistently rejected the idea of giving up land, and some European leaders have expressed concerns that making such concessions would effectively reward Russia for its invasion.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/trumps-strategic-twist-in-the-russia-ukraine-war-a-path-to-resolution-or-new-challenges-for-stakeholders-8858594">Trump's strategic twist in the Russia-Ukraine war: A path to resolution or new challenges for stakeholders?</a>
<h2>Putin 'accepts the philosophy of President Trump'</h2>
Witkoff said that Putin &ldquo;accepts the philosophy of President Trump&rdquo; in wanting to bring the conflict to an end, adding that he was confident a halt in fighting could be achieved soon.
On Friday, Trump called the Moscow meeting between Putin and Witkoff &ldquo;very productive&rdquo; and said&nbsp;that signs for a resolution looked &ldquo;very good&rdquo; following Witkoff&rsquo;s discussions in Russia.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-of-decisive-response-after-trump-orders-strikes-on-houthis-russia-urges-us-to-not-use-force-in-yemen-8858857">Iran warns of &lsquo;decisive&rsquo; response after Trump orders strikes on Houthis; Russia urges US to not use force in Yemen</a>
"We had very good and productive discussions with President Vladimir Putin of Russia yesterday, and there is a very good chance that this horrible, bloody war can finally come to an end &mdash; BUT, AT THIS VERY MOMENT, THOUSANDS OF UKRAINIAN TROOPS ARE COMPLETELY SURROUNDED BY THE RUSSIAN MILITARY, AND IN A VERY BAD AND VULNERABLE POSITION. I have strongly requested to President Putin that their lives be spared. This would be a horrible massacre, one not seen since World War II. God bless them all!!!" Trump wrote on Truth Social.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: “I think the two presidents are going to have a really good and positive discussion this week,” Witkoff told CNN during a televised interview.

US President Donald Trump is expected to hold discussions this week with Russian President Vladimir Putin, as efforts to negotiate a ceasefire in Ukraine intensify. Trump’s foreign envoy, Steve Witkoff, confirmed the likely conversation on Sunday (16 March). “I think the two presidents are going to have a really good and positive discussion this week,” Witkoff told CNN during a televised interview. He also expressed optimism that a ceasefire agreement could be reached within weeks. Also read: 'Will build Ukraine’s own defences': UK, France, NATO unite to push Russia into ceasefire as Putin 'stalls' The anticipated call comes after a late-night meeting in Moscow last week between Witkoff and Putin. Describing the discussions as “solution-based,” Witkoff did not disclose specific conditions set by Putin for a ceasefire but admitted that Russian-occupied regions of Ukraine would be central to the negotiations. The question of ceding land remains a key obstacle in the negotiations. While US officials have suggested Ukraine may need to surrender territory to secure peace, Putin has made it a prerequisite for any ceasefire. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has consistently rejected the idea of giving up land, and some European leaders have expressed concerns that making such concessions would effectively reward Russia for its invasion. Also read: Trump's strategic twist in the Russia-Ukraine war: A path to resolution or new challenges for stakeholders? Putin 'accepts the philosophy of President Trump' Witkoff said that Putin “accepts the philosophy of President Trump” in wanting to bring the conflict to an end, adding that he was confident a halt in fighting could be achieved soon. On Friday, Trump called the Moscow meeting between Putin and Witkoff “very productive” and said that signs for a resolution looked “very good” following Witkoff’s discussions in Russia. Also read: Iran warns of ‘decisive’ response after Trump orders strikes on Houthis; Russia urges US to not use force in Yemen "We had very good and productive discussions with President Vladimir Putin of Russia yesterday, and there is a very good chance that this horrible, bloody war can finally come to an end — BUT, AT THIS VERY MOMENT, THOUSANDS OF UKRAINIAN TROOPS ARE COMPLETELY SURROUNDED BY THE RUSSIAN MILITARY, AND IN A VERY BAD AND VULNERABLE POSITION. I have strongly requested to President Putin that their lives be spared. This would be a horrible massacre, one not seen since World War II. God bless them all!!!" Trump wrote on Truth Social. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Positive discussion this week’: Trump set for talks with Putin on ending Ukraine war, Witkoff says

A Russian ballistic missile strike overnight on the southern Ukrainian port city of Odesa killed four people and damaged a Barbados-flagged cargo ship, Ukrainian authorities said Wednesday.
The attack late Tuesday came as Ukraine endorsed an American proposal for a 30-day ceasefire and agreed to immediate negotiations with Russia.
Ukrainian officials said the attack occurred as the cargo ship was being loaded with a grain consignment intended to be sent to Algeria.
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"Unfortunately, four people died -- citizens of Syria. The youngest victim was 18, the oldest was 24 years old. Two more people were wounded -- a Ukrainian and a Syrian," Oleksiy Kuleba, vice prime minister for reconstruction wrote on social media.
"Russia is attacking Ukraine's infrastructure, including ports that are involved in ensuring the world's food security," he added.
Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-lays-down-three-maximalist-demands-before-ending-russia-ukraine-war-report-8845351">Putin lays down THREE 'maximalist' demands for ending Russia-Ukraine&nbsp;war:&nbsp;Report</a>
Separately, the governor of the Dnipropetrovsk region said a 47-year-old woman was killed during a Russian missile attack on the central city of Kryvyi Rig, the hometown of President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The Ukrainian air force said that in total Russia had launched three missiles at the war-battered country overnight as well as 133 drones of various types, including the Iranian-designed Shahed-type attack drone.
Its air defence units shot down 98 of the drones, the air force added.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: Russian missile strike in Odesa killed four and damaged a cargo ship, highlighting the ongoing conflict and its impact on global food security.

A Russian ballistic missile strike overnight on the southern Ukrainian port city of Odesa killed four people and damaged a Barbados-flagged cargo ship, Ukrainian authorities said Wednesday. The attack late Tuesday came as Ukraine endorsed an American proposal for a 30-day ceasefire and agreed to immediate negotiations with Russia. Ukrainian officials said the attack occurred as the cargo ship was being loaded with a grain consignment intended to be sent to Algeria. Also read | Russia launches air attack on Kyiv hours after Ukraine backs 30-day ceasefire "Unfortunately, four people died -- citizens of Syria. The youngest victim was 18, the oldest was 24 years old. Two more people were wounded -- a Ukrainian and a Syrian," Oleksiy Kuleba, vice prime minister for reconstruction wrote on social media. "Russia is attacking Ukraine's infrastructure, including ports that are involved in ensuring the world's food security," he added. Also read |Putin lays down THREE 'maximalist' demands for ending Russia-Ukraine war: Report Separately, the governor of the Dnipropetrovsk region said a 47-year-old woman was killed during a Russian missile attack on the central city of Kryvyi Rig, the hometown of President Volodymyr Zelensky. The Ukrainian air force said that in total Russia had launched three missiles at the war-battered country overnight as well as 133 drones of various types, including the Iranian-designed Shahed-type attack drone. Its air defence units shot down 98 of the drones, the air force added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Kyiv: Four killed in Russian strike at Ukraine’s Odesa port

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has made it clear that there will be no ceasefire along the contact line in Ukraine, Russian state media reported on Wednesday (Feb 26).
Lavrov emphasised that Russia has a constitution to uphold and cannot agree to any deals that would involve further arming the Ukrainian government.&nbsp;
"We have a constitution," he said, adding that such a cessation in fighting is not feasible.
The Russian Foreign Minister also highlighted that they will not accept any agreements that involve further arming the Ukrainian government.
"It is impossible to enter into agreements that would involve pumping the Kyiv regime with weapons again," he concluded.
Lavrov had earlier rejected the notion of deploying European peacekeepers to Ukraine, stating that Russia hasn't received any such proposal and doesn't view it as a viable option.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-proposes-all-for-all-pow-swap-as-start-of-ending-war-8752452">Also read: Zelensky proposes &lsquo;all for all&rsquo; POW swap with Russia as &lsquo;start&rsquo; of ending war</a>
<h2>Zelensky to ask Trump if he will 'stop' US aid</h2>
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Wednesday (Feb 26), expressed hope to visit Washington on Friday, aiming to secure a minerals deal with the United States and discuss potential future aid.&nbsp;
"I would like to have this visit very much," Zelensky told reporters on Wednesday.
"This is just a start, a framework, it can be a big success. The success will depend on our conversation with President Trump," he added.
He further said that he would ask Trump if the US would halt the aid entirely, and if yes, then whether Ukraine could continue purchasing weapons from the United States.
He then said that revenues generated from a resources deal would be deposited into a joint fund owned by Ukraine and the United States and that Kyiv would not be "a debtor" over aid provided under the Biden administration.&nbsp;
"This would be unfair to us," Zelensky said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Lavrov had earlier rejected the notion of deploying European peacekeepers to Ukraine, stating that Russia hasn't received any such proposal and doesn't view it as a viable option.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has made it clear that there will be no ceasefire along the contact line in Ukraine, Russian state media reported on Wednesday (Feb 26). Lavrov emphasised that Russia has a constitution to uphold and cannot agree to any deals that would involve further arming the Ukrainian government. "We have a constitution," he said, adding that such a cessation in fighting is not feasible. The Russian Foreign Minister also highlighted that they will not accept any agreements that involve further arming the Ukrainian government. "It is impossible to enter into agreements that would involve pumping the Kyiv regime with weapons again," he concluded. Lavrov had earlier rejected the notion of deploying European peacekeepers to Ukraine, stating that Russia hasn't received any such proposal and doesn't view it as a viable option. Also read: Zelensky proposes ‘all for all’ POW swap with Russia as ‘start’ of ending war Zelensky to ask Trump if he will 'stop' US aid Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Wednesday (Feb 26), expressed hope to visit Washington on Friday, aiming to secure a minerals deal with the United States and discuss potential future aid. "I would like to have this visit very much," Zelensky told reporters on Wednesday. "This is just a start, a framework, it can be a big success. The success will depend on our conversation with President Trump," he added. He further said that he would ask Trump if the US would halt the aid entirely, and if yes, then whether Ukraine could continue purchasing weapons from the United States. He then said that revenues generated from a resources deal would be deposited into a joint fund owned by Ukraine and the United States and that Kyiv would not be "a debtor" over aid provided under the Biden administration. "This would be unfair to us," Zelensky said. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia refuses to freeze Ukraine war, rejects proposal for ceasefire along frontline

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed vengeance against Hamas after it 'parades dead bodies' of Israeli hostages.
In other news, new Delhi CM Rekha Gupta has announced cabinet portfolio allocation.
Meanwhile, the US envoy has cancelled a press conference in Kyiv after meeting with Zelensky as both nations engage in war of words
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Feb 20) is meeting US envoy Keith Kellogg in Kyiv as the American diplomat is on a three-day visit to the war-torn country.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-refuses-to-co-sponsor-un-draft-resolution-backing-ukraine-report-8741220" rel="dofollow">US refuses to co-sponsor UN draft resolution backing Ukraine: Report</a>
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The United States is refusing to co-sponsor a draft United Nations (UN) resolution that backs Kyiv's territorial integrity and condemns Russian aggression, reported Reuters, citing three diplomatic sources. This motion marks three years of the Ukraine war as the nation&rsquo;s most powerful Western ally suggests a potential start shift.
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Stay informed with our curated list of the top global stories, providing insightful coverage and analysis of current events from around the world.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed vengeance against Hamas after it 'parades dead bodies' of Israeli hostages. In other news, new Delhi CM Rekha Gupta has announced cabinet portfolio allocation. Meanwhile, the US envoy has cancelled a press conference in Kyiv after meeting with Zelensky as both nations engage in war of words Click on the headlines for more 'Death cult': Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas after it 'parades dead bodies' of Israeli hostages Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Feb 20) slammed the Palestinian militant group Hamas as a "death cult" after it displayed coffins containing the bodies of four Israeli hostages. Delhi CM Rekha Gupta announces cabinet portfolio allocation. Check who gets what Following her grand swearing-in ceremony on Thursday (Feb 20) at the Ramlila Maidan, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Rekha Gupta assumed duties as the chief minister of Delhi. US envoy cancels press conference in Kyiv after meeting with Zelensky as both nations engage in war of words Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Feb 20) is meeting US envoy Keith Kellogg in Kyiv as the American diplomat is on a three-day visit to the war-torn country. US refuses to co-sponsor UN draft resolution backing Ukraine: Report The United States is refusing to co-sponsor a draft United Nations (UN) resolution that backs Kyiv's territorial integrity and condemns Russian aggression, reported Reuters, citing three diplomatic sources. This motion marks three years of the Ukraine war as the nation’s most powerful Western ally suggests a potential start shift. FDA scientists told not to use words ‘women’, ‘disabled’, ‘elderly’; White House calls it ‘error’ Some of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) scientists have been told to stop using the words "woman", "disabled", and "elderly" in external communications, Reuters reported, citing two sources familiar with the matter. Does Trump’s decision to dismantle USAID risk mpox global emergency? Here’s what experts say The Trump administration’s decision to dismantle the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and stop funding for global public health efforts may increase the risk of mpox becoming a global emergency, according to experts and aid workers. ‘Most decorated dog in US history’: White House hero Hurricane dies at 15 K-9 Hurricane, a 15-year-old Belgian Malinois who helped ensure the safety of the White House, died this week. Three years of Russia-Ukraine war: Who started it - Kremlin or Kyiv? February 24 marks three years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. What Russian President Vladimir Putin initially called a “special military operation” has since become Europe’s largest conflict since World War II. ‘They’re mocking our lord!’ Cynthia Erivo to play Jesus in a musical, netizens slam Cynthia Erivo will play Jesus Christ, but netizens don’t seem too thrilled about the news, calling the casting blasphemous. The Hollywood actress, who was last seen in the Oscar-nominated movie Wicked, is set to portray Jesus in Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s Jesus Christ Superstar at the Hollywood Bowl this summer. LIVE | IND vs BAN Live Score, Champions Trophy 2025: India beat Bangladesh by 6 wickets in Dubai Team India start their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign on Thursday (Feb 20) field first against Bangladesh at the Dubai International Stadium. One of the favourites to win the Champions Trophy 2025, India aim to start their campaign on a high before they square off against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday (Feb 23). On the other hand, Bangladesh will have a point to prove having reached the semis in the last edition of the Champions Trophy 2025.

Top 10 world news: Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas; Delhi CM announces portfolio allocation, and more

Ukraine&rsquo;s Security Service (SBU) arrested a high-ranking officer accusing "the rat" of working for Russia&rsquo;s Federal Security Service (FSB), the agency announced Wednesday (Feb 12).
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) said it had documented "14 episodes of the 'rat's' illegal activities," saying the man had headed the SBU's Anti-Terrorist Centre.
The suspect, identified as the head of the SBU&rsquo;s Anti-Terrorism Centre, was detained in a special operation led by SBU chief Vasyl Malyuk, who was involved in the investigation and apprehension.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suspected-gas-explosion-kills-four-at-taiwan-department-store-8717933">Suspected gas explosion kills four at Taiwan department store</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">What did Malyuk say?</h2>
Vasyl Malyuk, the head of the SBU, led the investigation and carried out the arrest himself, according to a statement from the agency, which said President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had been kept updated on the "complex" and "multi-step" operation.
"Using encrypted software bookmarks, we penetrated the traitor's gadgets&mdash;mobile terminals, computers," Malyuk was quoted as saying in the SBU's statement. "In the process of all this, we managed to qualitatively document the collection and transmission of relevant information by the traitor to the enemy."
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<h2 dir="ltr">Malyuk grasps the alleged traitor by neck</h2>
A photo shows Malyuk grasping the alleged traitor by the neck, with visible bruising on the traitor's forehead.
In an accompanying video, Malyuk said the man had worked with the SBU since 2016 and that he was now being investigated for suspected high treason.
The SBU also claimed it had used the man to feed disinformation back to Russia.
"The self-purification of the SBU continues," said Malyuk. "No matter how the enemy tries to penetrate our ranks&mdash;he thinks he has all possible forms and methods of conspiracy&mdash;he will not be able to do it successfully. Because we detect, document, and detain them in a timely manner."
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Ukraine's Security Service detains a top officer, alleging espionage for Russia's FSB, marking a significant development in their ongoing security efforts.

Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) arrested a high-ranking officer accusing "the rat" of working for Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB), the agency announced Wednesday (Feb 12). The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) said it had documented "14 episodes of the 'rat's' illegal activities," saying the man had headed the SBU's Anti-Terrorist Centre. The suspect, identified as the head of the SBU’s Anti-Terrorism Centre, was detained in a special operation led by SBU chief Vasyl Malyuk, who was involved in the investigation and apprehension. Also read | Suspected gas explosion kills four at Taiwan department store What did Malyuk say? Vasyl Malyuk, the head of the SBU, led the investigation and carried out the arrest himself, according to a statement from the agency, which said President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had been kept updated on the "complex" and "multi-step" operation. "Using encrypted software bookmarks, we penetrated the traitor's gadgets—mobile terminals, computers," Malyuk was quoted as saying in the SBU's statement. "In the process of all this, we managed to qualitatively document the collection and transmission of relevant information by the traitor to the enemy." Also read | Modi in US: President Trump to host dinner for Indian PM at White House | Full Schedule Malyuk grasps the alleged traitor by neck A photo shows Malyuk grasping the alleged traitor by the neck, with visible bruising on the traitor's forehead. In an accompanying video, Malyuk said the man had worked with the SBU since 2016 and that he was now being investigated for suspected high treason. The SBU also claimed it had used the man to feed disinformation back to Russia. "The self-purification of the SBU continues," said Malyuk. "No matter how the enemy tries to penetrate our ranks—he thinks he has all possible forms and methods of conspiracy—he will not be able to do it successfully. Because we detect, document, and detain them in a timely manner." (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine detains senior security official, accuses him of spying for Russia

The US has agreed to release Alexander Vinnik, a Russian national accused of being a cybercrime kingpin, as part of a prisoner exchange with Russia that freed Marc Fogel, an.official said on Wednesday (Feb 12).
Vinnik operated BTC-e, once one of the world's largest cryptocurrency exchanges. He was arrested in 2017 in a small beachside village in northern Greece and detained at Washington's request on suspicion of laundering $4 billion through the exchange. 
The prisoner swap marks a rare diplomatic breakthrough between the two nations.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-pm-to-meet-president-trump-tariffs-deportation-quad-on-modis-agenda-8716622">Indian PM to meet President Trump: Tariffs, deportation, Quad on Modi&rsquo;s agenda</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">US authorities linked Vinnik to failure of Mt. Gox</h2>
US authorities alleged that Alexander Vinnik was involved in the infamous 2014 hack of Mt. Gox, a Japanese Bitcoin exchange that ultimately went bankrupt. According to the Justice Department, Vinnik acquired funds stolen from Mt. Gox and then laundered them through his own cryptocurrency exchanges, BTC-e and Tradehill, based in San Francisco.
Vinnik was initially extradited to France and later to the US, where he pleaded guilty in May 2024 to conspiracy to commit money laundering.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/124-journalists-killed-in-deadliest-year-for-reporters-cpj-8716544">124 journalists killed in deadliest year for reporters: CPJ</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">BTC-e facilitated over $9bn in transactions in 2011-2017</h2>
Vinnik was facing up to 20 years in prison. According to the court records, he was set to be sentenced in January but a US federal judge in November agreed to postpone the sentencing until June, in a brief order that did not cite the reason for the delay.
The US Attorney's Office for the Northern District of California revealed that BTC-e, operated by Alexander Vinnik, facilitated over $9 billion in transactions between 2011 and 2017, catering to more than a million users worldwide, including many in the United States, before being dismantled following Vinnik's arrest.
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"BTC-e was one of the primary ways by which cyber criminals around the world transferred, laundered, and stored the criminal proceeds of their illegal activities," the attorney's office said last year. 
It added that the exchange received criminal proceeds from numerous hacking incidents, ransomware attacks, identity theft schemes, corrupt public officials, and narcotics rings, and Vinnik ran it "with the intent to promote these unlawful activities".
Court records indicate that US District Judge Susan Illston arranged a Tuesday afternoon status conference regarding Vinnik's case, though the meeting's specifics remain undisclosed.
(With inputs from agencies)
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World: The US has agreed to release Russian national Alexander Vinnik in a prisoner swap with Russia, securing the freedom of American Marc Fogel, an official announced.

The US has agreed to release Alexander Vinnik, a Russian national accused of being a cybercrime kingpin, as part of a prisoner exchange with Russia that freed Marc Fogel, an.official said on Wednesday (Feb 12). Vinnik operated BTC-e, once one of the world's largest cryptocurrency exchanges. He was arrested in 2017 in a small beachside village in northern Greece and detained at Washington's request on suspicion of laundering $4 billion through the exchange. The prisoner swap marks a rare diplomatic breakthrough between the two nations. Also read | Indian PM to meet President Trump: Tariffs, deportation, Quad on Modi’s agenda US authorities linked Vinnik to failure of Mt. Gox US authorities alleged that Alexander Vinnik was involved in the infamous 2014 hack of Mt. Gox, a Japanese Bitcoin exchange that ultimately went bankrupt. According to the Justice Department, Vinnik acquired funds stolen from Mt. Gox and then laundered them through his own cryptocurrency exchanges, BTC-e and Tradehill, based in San Francisco. Vinnik was initially extradited to France and later to the US, where he pleaded guilty in May 2024 to conspiracy to commit money laundering. Also read | 124 journalists killed in deadliest year for reporters: CPJ BTC-e facilitated over $9bn in transactions in 2011-2017 Vinnik was facing up to 20 years in prison. According to the court records, he was set to be sentenced in January but a US federal judge in November agreed to postpone the sentencing until June, in a brief order that did not cite the reason for the delay. The US Attorney's Office for the Northern District of California revealed that BTC-e, operated by Alexander Vinnik, facilitated over $9 billion in transactions between 2011 and 2017, catering to more than a million users worldwide, including many in the United States, before being dismantled following Vinnik's arrest. Also read | In US, PM Modi to stay at 'world's most exclusive' hotel that once hosted Abraham Lincoln "BTC-e was one of the primary ways by which cyber criminals around the world transferred, laundered, and stored the criminal proceeds of their illegal activities," the attorney's office said last year. It added that the exchange received criminal proceeds from numerous hacking incidents, ransomware attacks, identity theft schemes, corrupt public officials, and narcotics rings, and Vinnik ran it "with the intent to promote these unlawful activities". Court records indicate that US District Judge Susan Illston arranged a Tuesday afternoon status conference regarding Vinnik's case, though the meeting's specifics remain undisclosed. (With inputs from agencies)

US releases Alexander Vinnik in prisoner exchange with Russia. Who is he?

Keen to step up defence ties, Russia's state-run Rosoboronexport is keen to cooperate with India on Su-57E, with proposals including joint production of the fifth-generation stealth fighter jet with India. The proposals for joint production include using the same factories where the Su-30MKI fighter is currently manufactured.&nbsp;
 A Rosoboronexport representative told WION, "Rosoboronexport offers comprehensive cooperation on the Su-57E project. Our proposals include the supply of aircraft from Russia and organization of its joint production in India."
The Su-57E made its debut in India at Bengaluru Aero India 2025 and has been the star of Asia's biggest aerospace and defence exhibition along with the US F-35 Lightning II. The presence of both Su 57 and F35 shows India's growing position as key to global defence markets. Russia's Su 57 E at the Aero India is flown by Sergei Bogdan. The fighter jet was created by United Aircraft Cooperation (UAC), which boasts of advanced stealth technology, super-maneuverability, and integrated modular avionics and is designed for air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance missions.
Rosoboronexport representative pointed out that Su 57E "outperforms its competitors by its flight performance characteristics and combat capabilities". India and Russia, who are close defence partners, have also close cooperation on fighter jet development and procurement. India has acquired a significant number of Russian fighter jets, including the MiG-21, MiG-29, and the Su-30MKI, which has been indigenously produced in India under license.&nbsp;
Russia has shown a willingness to align with India's strategic initiatives like "Make in India," offering not just aircraft but also support in manufacturing, maintenance, and technology transfer.
While there is no response from the Indian side on the current Russian proposal, it is important to remember that India has its own fighter jet programs like Tejas and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft which have faced delays. In 2007, India and Russia embarked on a project to jointly develop a fifth-generation fighter aircraft, however, the Indian side withdrew from the project in 2018 due to various issues including cost, technology transfer, and performance concerns.

The Su 57E made its debut in India at Bengaluru Aero India 2025 and has been the star of Asia's biggest aerospace and defence exhibition along with the US F-35 Lightning II.

Keen to step up defence ties, Russia's state-run Rosoboronexport is keen to cooperate with India on Su-57E, with proposals including joint production of the fifth-generation stealth fighter jet with India. The proposals for joint production include using the same factories where the Su-30MKI fighter is currently manufactured. A Rosoboronexport representative told WION, "Rosoboronexport offers comprehensive cooperation on the Su-57E project. Our proposals include the supply of aircraft from Russia and organization of its joint production in India." The Su-57E made its debut in India at Bengaluru Aero India 2025 and has been the star of Asia's biggest aerospace and defence exhibition along with the US F-35 Lightning II. The presence of both Su 57 and F35 shows India's growing position as key to global defence markets. Russia's Su 57 E at the Aero India is flown by Sergei Bogdan. The fighter jet was created by United Aircraft Cooperation (UAC), which boasts of advanced stealth technology, super-maneuverability, and integrated modular avionics and is designed for air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance missions. Rosoboronexport representative pointed out that Su 57E "outperforms its competitors by its flight performance characteristics and combat capabilities". India and Russia, who are close defence partners, have also close cooperation on fighter jet development and procurement. India has acquired a significant number of Russian fighter jets, including the MiG-21, MiG-29, and the Su-30MKI, which has been indigenously produced in India under license. Russia has shown a willingness to align with India's strategic initiatives like "Make in India," offering not just aircraft but also support in manufacturing, maintenance, and technology transfer. While there is no response from the Indian side on the current Russian proposal, it is important to remember that India has its own fighter jet programs like Tejas and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft which have faced delays. In 2007, India and Russia embarked on a project to jointly develop a fifth-generation fighter aircraft, however, the Indian side withdrew from the project in 2018 due to various issues including cost, technology transfer, and performance concerns.

Russia offers joint production of SU 57E fighter jet to India

Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania successfully synchronised their electricity grids with the European continental power network on Sunday (Feb 9), marking the end of their longstanding energy reliance on Russia and Belarus. The transition came a day after the Baltic nations disconnected from the old Soviet-era system.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/norway-releases-russian-crewed-ship-after-baltic-cable-damage-probe-8682533" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Norway releases Russian-crewed ship after Baltic cable damage probe</a>
In eastern Latvia, near the Russian border, high-voltage transmission lines were cut, with segments of wire distributed as souvenirs to spectators. The grid then operated independently for a full day before linking up with the European network via Poland on Sunday.
<h2>$1.6 billion initiative</h2>
This shift was the result of a five-year initiative backed by $1.6 billion (&pound;1.4 billion) in European Union funding, aimed at updating the Baltic region&rsquo;s energy infrastructure. 
For Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, all of which are NATO members bordering Russia, energy security has been closely tied to national security. The three nations have been vocal supporters of Ukraine in its defence against Russia&rsquo;s full-scale invasion.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-talked-to-putin-says-russian-president-wants-to-see-people-stop-dying-in-ukraine-war-report-8703614" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Trump talks to Putin, says Russian president &lsquo;wants to see people stop dying&rsquo; in Ukraine war: Report</a>
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the move a significant milestone. &ldquo;Today we connect the Baltic states to the continental European electricity grid. We're cutting the last remaining links with Russia. Freedom from threats and blackmail, at last. This is a historic day,&rdquo; she stated on X.
The Baltic states have long accused Russia of using energy supplies as a geopolitical tool to reward allies and penalise adversaries. While they ceased importing oil, natural gas, and electricity from Russia in 2022, Moscow still retained control over grid frequency management, giving it a degree of influence over the region&rsquo;s power stability.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-preparing-for-war-not-peace-or-negotiations-zelensky-claims-8703418" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: 'Putin preparing for war, not peace or negotiations', Zelensky claims</a>
<h2>Baltic Sea diplomacy</h2>
Concerns over the security of the Baltic Sea region have heightened in recent months, with multiple undersea power cables sustaining damage under suspicious circumstances. 
Several key infrastructure links including electricity, telecommunications, and gas pipelines between the Baltics and Sweden or Finland have been disrupted, reportedly by ships dragging anchors along the seabed following <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-open-to-face-to-face-talks-with-enemy-putin-but-only-under-one-condition-8691634">Russia&rsquo;s invasion of Ukraine</a>.
Russia has denied any involvement in these incidents. In response, Poland and the Baltic states have increased surveillance of the area, deploying naval forces, elite police units, and helicopters. 
(With inputs from agencies)

World: For Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, all of which are NATO members bordering Russia, energy security has been closely tied to national security. 

Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania successfully synchronised their electricity grids with the European continental power network on Sunday (Feb 9), marking the end of their longstanding energy reliance on Russia and Belarus. The transition came a day after the Baltic nations disconnected from the old Soviet-era system. Also read: Norway releases Russian-crewed ship after Baltic cable damage probe In eastern Latvia, near the Russian border, high-voltage transmission lines were cut, with segments of wire distributed as souvenirs to spectators. The grid then operated independently for a full day before linking up with the European network via Poland on Sunday. $1.6 billion initiative This shift was the result of a five-year initiative backed by $1.6 billion (£1.4 billion) in European Union funding, aimed at updating the Baltic region’s energy infrastructure. For Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, all of which are NATO members bordering Russia, energy security has been closely tied to national security. The three nations have been vocal supporters of Ukraine in its defence against Russia’s full-scale invasion. Also read: Trump talks to Putin, says Russian president ‘wants to see people stop dying’ in Ukraine war: Report European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the move a significant milestone. “Today we connect the Baltic states to the continental European electricity grid. We're cutting the last remaining links with Russia. Freedom from threats and blackmail, at last. This is a historic day,” she stated on X. The Baltic states have long accused Russia of using energy supplies as a geopolitical tool to reward allies and penalise adversaries. While they ceased importing oil, natural gas, and electricity from Russia in 2022, Moscow still retained control over grid frequency management, giving it a degree of influence over the region’s power stability. Also read: 'Putin preparing for war, not peace or negotiations', Zelensky claims Baltic Sea diplomacy Concerns over the security of the Baltic Sea region have heightened in recent months, with multiple undersea power cables sustaining damage under suspicious circumstances. Several key infrastructure links including electricity, telecommunications, and gas pipelines between the Baltics and Sweden or Finland have been disrupted, reportedly by ships dragging anchors along the seabed following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Russia has denied any involvement in these incidents. In response, Poland and the Baltic states have increased surveillance of the area, deploying naval forces, elite police units, and helicopters. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Freedom from threats, blackmail’: Baltic states cut power ties with Russia, plug into European grid

A Russian drone attack that targeted cities across Ukraine killed at least four people in a Soviet-era residential block in the eastern city of Sumy, the interior ministry said.
Moscow has pummelled Ukrainian cities with dozens of drones or missiles almost daily since it invaded Ukraine in early 2022.
Images distributed by emergency services showed a gaping hole ripped into the side of the building and rescue workers working with headlamps, digging through debris for survivors.
"This is a terrible tragedy, a terrible Russian crime. It is very important that the world does not pause in putting pressure on Russia for this terror," President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on social media.
Ukraine's human rights ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets said four people were killed and nine others, including a child, were wounded in Sumy.
The town lies just over the border from Russia in northeastern Ukraine and has been targeted regularly in Russian aerial attacks. Some 255,672 people lived there before the war.
The Ukrainian air force said Moscow had attacked with 81 drones, including the Iranian-designed Shahed-type unmanned aerial vehicles.
Their air defence units downed 37 of the drones in various regions, including Sumy and near the capital Kyiv.
In the southern region of Odesa, which lies on the Black Sea, officials said Russian drones targeted the port town of Izmail, one of several important Ukrainian export hubs.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience. &nbsp;

World: Ukraine's human rights ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets said four people were killed and nine others, including a child, were wounded in Sumy, in the Russian drone attacks that targeted cities across Ukraine.

A Russian drone attack that targeted cities across Ukraine killed at least four people in a Soviet-era residential block in the eastern city of Sumy, the interior ministry said. Moscow has pummelled Ukrainian cities with dozens of drones or missiles almost daily since it invaded Ukraine in early 2022. Images distributed by emergency services showed a gaping hole ripped into the side of the building and rescue workers working with headlamps, digging through debris for survivors. "This is a terrible tragedy, a terrible Russian crime. It is very important that the world does not pause in putting pressure on Russia for this terror," President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on social media. Ukraine's human rights ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets said four people were killed and nine others, including a child, were wounded in Sumy. The town lies just over the border from Russia in northeastern Ukraine and has been targeted regularly in Russian aerial attacks. Some 255,672 people lived there before the war. The Ukrainian air force said Moscow had attacked with 81 drones, including the Iranian-designed Shahed-type unmanned aerial vehicles. Their air defence units downed 37 of the drones in various regions, including Sumy and near the capital Kyiv. In the southern region of Odesa, which lies on the Black Sea, officials said Russian drones targeted the port town of Izmail, one of several important Ukrainian export hubs. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Russian drone barrage kills four in east Ukraine

A high-level Russian delegation in Syria expressed support for the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity following the fall of Bashar al-Assad, Moscow's foreign ministry said Wednesday.
The former Syrian president, a key Russian ally in the Middle East, fled to Moscow last year after being ousted in a lightning rebel offensive that ended five decades of rule by the Assad family.
Russia sent its first high-level delegation to the war-torn country on Tuesday, with Moscow keen to retain two military bases in Syria.&nbsp;
"The Russian side reaffirmed its unwavering support for the unity, territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Syrian Arab Republic," Russia's foreign ministry said in a statement.
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It said the visit came at a "crunch point" in Russia-Syria relations, while Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov called it an "important trip".
"It is necessary to build and maintain a permanent dialogue with the Syrian authorities, which is what we will continue to do," Peskov told reporters.
The delegation was led by Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, who is also Putin's special envoy on the Middle East and Africa and met with Syria's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa.
Russia's naval base in Tartus and its air base at Hmeimim -- both on Syria's Mediterranean coast -- are Moscow's only military outposts outside the former Soviet Union.
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It used the air base extensively after intervening in the Syrian civil war on Assad's side in 2015.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
&nbsp;

World: A top Russian delegation in Syria pledges support for Syrian sovereignty and territorial integrity, as confirmed by Moscow's foreign ministry after Assad's regime collapse.

A high-level Russian delegation in Syria expressed support for the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity following the fall of Bashar al-Assad, Moscow's foreign ministry said Wednesday. The former Syrian president, a key Russian ally in the Middle East, fled to Moscow last year after being ousted in a lightning rebel offensive that ended five decades of rule by the Assad family. Russia sent its first high-level delegation to the war-torn country on Tuesday, with Moscow keen to retain two military bases in Syria. "The Russian side reaffirmed its unwavering support for the unity, territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Syrian Arab Republic," Russia's foreign ministry said in a statement. Also read | White House opens for social media influencers under Trump 2.0 It said the visit came at a "crunch point" in Russia-Syria relations, while Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov called it an "important trip". "It is necessary to build and maintain a permanent dialogue with the Syrian authorities, which is what we will continue to do," Peskov told reporters. The delegation was led by Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, who is also Putin's special envoy on the Middle East and Africa and met with Syria's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa. Russia's naval base in Tartus and its air base at Hmeimim -- both on Syria's Mediterranean coast -- are Moscow's only military outposts outside the former Soviet Union. Also read | Trump orders Musk to bring astronauts Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore home It used the air base extensively after intervening in the Syrian civil war on Assad's side in 2015. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Russian delegation supports Syria's ‘sovereignty' following fall of Bashar al-Assad

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Jan 28) said that he would allocate people to hold peace talks with Ukraine if Volodymyr Zelensky wants to take part in the negotiations, however, he ruled out the possibility of speaking directly to the Ukrainian leader, whom he labelled "illegitimate".
To this, Zelensky responded saying that Putin was "afraid" of negotiations. He further fired back at the Russian president accusing him of intentionally prolonging the nearly three-year conflict using "cynical tricks".
United States President Donald Trump, since taking his office for the second term on Jan 20, has pushed both the warring sides to end the fighting.&nbsp;
Trump has threatened sanctions on Russia stating that Ukraine is ready for the negotiation talks to broker a "deal".
"If (Zelensky) wants to participate in the negotiations, I will allocate people to take part," Putin said, calling the Ukrainian leader "illegitimate" because his presidential term expired during martial law.
"If there is a desire to negotiate and find a compromise, let anyone lead the negotiations there... Naturally, we will strive for what suits us, what corresponds to our interests," he added.
Zelensky expressed hope stating that there was a chance for "real peace," but accused Putin of thwarting efforts to end the conflict.&nbsp;
"Today, Putin once again confirmed that he is afraid of negotiations, afraid of strong leaders, and does everything possible to prolong the war," Zelensky wrote on X.
Zelensky has warned that Ukraine should not be excluded from any peace talks that take place between Russia and the United States, accusing Putin of wanting to "manipulate" Trump.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-zelensky-says-us-has-not-stopped-military-aid-to-kyiv-8654837">Also read: Ukraine war: Zelensky says US has not stopped military aid to Kyiv</a>
<h3>Putin claims fighting would end if support were cut down for Ukraine</h3>
Putin said that the fighting would come to an end if the West cut its support for Ukraine.&nbsp;
"They will not exist for a month if the money and, in a broad sense, the bullets run out. Everything would be over in a month and a half or two," Putin said in comments to a state TV reporter.
Russia's military on Tuesday said that the forces had seized a large village in Ukraine's northeastern Kharkiv region.
The Russian defence ministry said its forces had "liberated" the Dvorichna village which was home to a population of over 3,000 before the war.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed hope stating that there was a chance for "real peace," but accused Vladimir Putin of thwarting efforts to end the conflict. 


Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Jan 28) said that he would allocate people to hold peace talks with Ukraine if Volodymyr Zelensky wants to take part in the negotiations, however, he ruled out the possibility of speaking directly to the Ukrainian leader, whom he labelled "illegitimate". To this, Zelensky responded saying that Putin was "afraid" of negotiations. He further fired back at the Russian president accusing him of intentionally prolonging the nearly three-year conflict using "cynical tricks". United States President Donald Trump, since taking his office for the second term on Jan 20, has pushed both the warring sides to end the fighting. Trump has threatened sanctions on Russia stating that Ukraine is ready for the negotiation talks to broker a "deal". "If (Zelensky) wants to participate in the negotiations, I will allocate people to take part," Putin said, calling the Ukrainian leader "illegitimate" because his presidential term expired during martial law. "If there is a desire to negotiate and find a compromise, let anyone lead the negotiations there... Naturally, we will strive for what suits us, what corresponds to our interests," he added. Zelensky expressed hope stating that there was a chance for "real peace," but accused Putin of thwarting efforts to end the conflict. "Today, Putin once again confirmed that he is afraid of negotiations, afraid of strong leaders, and does everything possible to prolong the war," Zelensky wrote on X. Zelensky has warned that Ukraine should not be excluded from any peace talks that take place between Russia and the United States, accusing Putin of wanting to "manipulate" Trump. Also read: Ukraine war: Zelensky says US has not stopped military aid to Kyiv Putin claims fighting would end if support were cut down for Ukraine Putin said that the fighting would come to an end if the West cut its support for Ukraine. "They will not exist for a month if the money and, in a broad sense, the bullets run out. Everything would be over in a month and a half or two," Putin said in comments to a state TV reporter. Russia's military on Tuesday said that the forces had seized a large village in Ukraine's northeastern Kharkiv region. The Russian defence ministry said its forces had "liberated" the Dvorichna village which was home to a population of over 3,000 before the war. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin says Russia ready for peace talks but rules out speaking directly with 'illegitimate' Zelensky

Russia on Sunday said it had opened a criminal investigation into allegations that Ukrainian troops killed civilians in a Russian village that had been seized by Kyiv's army.
Ukraine has taken dozens of border settlements under its control in the western Russian Kursk region since launching a surprise offensive there last August and says around 2,000 civilians still live in areas under its occupation.
Russia has slowly been pushing Ukraine back and has retaken a number of villages.
Russia's Investigative Committee, which probes major crimes, on Sunday alleged Ukrainian troops "committed the murder of at least seven civilians, who were sheltering in the basement of a residential house" in the village of Russkoe Porechnoye, some 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the border.
Several Russian state media outlets had overnight published video, supplied by the army, that they said showed Russian troops discovering several dead bodies in a dark basement.
AFP could not immediately verify the claims or the video, which showed troops in a dark room moving blankets and clothes off the bodies and faces of what they said were dead civilians.
There has been no official response from Ukraine.
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In a statement, Russia's foreign ministry spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova, accused Ukraine of the "cannibalistic massacre of civilians".
Both Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of having killed and targeted civilians throughout the three-year conflict.
Russian forces are accused of having murdered hundreds of civilians in the Ukrainian town of Bucha during a month-long occupation at the start of the conflict.
AFP reporters were among the international journalists to witness and photograph the bodies of killed Ukrainian civilians, including some with their hands tied, in the town.
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The pictures and first-hand accounts from the town triggered outrage in the West and widespread condemnation of alleged Russian "war crimes".
Moscow has rejected committing atrocities in Bucha and accused Kyiv of staging the images&mdash;a claim that has been debunked by several independent fact-checking organisations and media outlets, including AFP.
Russia's army said it retook Russkoe Porechnoye from Ukrainian control last week.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: Ukraine has taken dozens of border settlements under its control in the western Russian Kursk region since launching a surprise offensive there last August and says around 2,000 civilians still live in areas under its occupation.


Russia on Sunday said it had opened a criminal investigation into allegations that Ukrainian troops killed civilians in a Russian village that had been seized by Kyiv's army. Ukraine has taken dozens of border settlements under its control in the western Russian Kursk region since launching a surprise offensive there last August and says around 2,000 civilians still live in areas under its occupation. Russia has slowly been pushing Ukraine back and has retaken a number of villages. Russia's Investigative Committee, which probes major crimes, on Sunday alleged Ukrainian troops "committed the murder of at least seven civilians, who were sheltering in the basement of a residential house" in the village of Russkoe Porechnoye, some 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the border. Several Russian state media outlets had overnight published video, supplied by the army, that they said showed Russian troops discovering several dead bodies in a dark basement. AFP could not immediately verify the claims or the video, which showed troops in a dark room moving blankets and clothes off the bodies and faces of what they said were dead civilians. There has been no official response from Ukraine. Also Read| First three Israeli hostages released by Hamas after Gaza ceasefire: Where do they go next? In a statement, Russia's foreign ministry spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova, accused Ukraine of the "cannibalistic massacre of civilians". Both Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of having killed and targeted civilians throughout the three-year conflict. Russian forces are accused of having murdered hundreds of civilians in the Ukrainian town of Bucha during a month-long occupation at the start of the conflict. AFP reporters were among the international journalists to witness and photograph the bodies of killed Ukrainian civilians, including some with their hands tied, in the town. Also Read| Donald Trump's meme coin could add $24 billion to his net worth: Report The pictures and first-hand accounts from the town triggered outrage in the West and widespread condemnation of alleged Russian "war crimes". Moscow has rejected committing atrocities in Bucha and accused Kyiv of staging the images—a claim that has been debunked by several independent fact-checking organisations and media outlets, including AFP. Russia's army said it retook Russkoe Porechnoye from Ukrainian control last week. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Russia accuses Ukraine of civilian killings in village seized by Kyiv's army

North Korean soldiers fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine have been ordered by Pyongyang to take their own lives rather than get captured, according to a South Korean lawmaker who was briefed by the country's spy agency on Monday (Jan 13).
"Memos found on deceased soldiers indicate that the North Korean authorities pressured them to commit suicide or self-detonate before capture," lawmaker Lee Seong-kweun claimed in comments to reporters, citing information from the National Intelligence Service.
Over 300 North Korean soldiers have lost their lives and 2,700 were injured while fighting Russia's war against Ukraine.
"The deployment of North Korean troops to Russia has reportedly expanded to include the Kursk region, with estimates suggesting that casualties among North Korean forces have surpassed 3,000," Lee said after&nbsp;a briefing from Seoul's National Intelligence Service.
This includes "approximately 300 deaths and 2,700 injuries," Lee said.
Out of these, some of the soldiers were granted "amnesty" or expressed willingness to join North Korea's ruling Workers' Party, he added.
One soldier, who was facing imminent capture, cried out "General Kim Jong Un" before attempting to blow himself up with a grenade, said Lee.
The analysis carried out by NIS unveiled that the soldiers from North Korea displayed a "lack of understanding of modern warfare," and Russia is using them in a manner which is leading to their "high number of casualties," said the lawmaker.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-significantly-benefiting-from-its-troops-fighting-in-russia-war-us-at-unsc-8603767">Also read: North Korea 'significantly benefiting' from its troops fighting in Russia war: US at UNSC</a>
<h2>Zelensky proposes soldier swap with North Korea</h2>
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (Jan 12) proposed a soldier swap to North Korea, stating that he would hand them over to Pyongyang in exchange for Ukrainian POWs that were held by Russia.
Zelensky's proposal came after South Korea's National Intelligence Service confirmed the announcement Kyiv made the previous day where it claimed to have captured two North Korean soldiers.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5uqrzno-f5k3ea9c-qvhj7nim">
In addition to the first captured soldiers from North Korea, there will undoubtedly be more. It&rsquo;s only a matter of time before our troops manage to capture others. There should be no doubt left in the world that the Russian army is dependent on military assistance from North&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/4RyCfUoHoC">pic.twitter.com/4RyCfUoHoC</a>
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1878502443077509588?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
Ukraine on Saturday said that the North Korean troops had been injured fighting Ukrainian soldiers in Russia's Kursk region but no evidence of their nationality was provided to back this claim.
However, the NIS, as per news agency AFP, said that it had "confirmed that the Ukrainian military captured two North Korean soldiers on January 9 in the Kursk battlefield in Russia".
In a post on X on Sunday, Zelensky said: "Ukraine is ready to hand over Kim Jong Un's soldiers to him if he can organize their exchange for our warriors who are being held captive in Russia."
"For those North Korean soldiers who do not wish to return, there may be other options available," said Zelensky.
"In particular, those who express a desire to bring peace closer by spreading the truth about this war in Korean will be given that opportunity," he added.
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made regarding the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this ongoing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

North Korean soldiers fighting in Russia's war against Ukraine have been told by Pyongyang to kill themselves rather than be captured alive, a South Korean lawmaker said Monday after a briefing from the country's spy agency.

North Korean soldiers fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine have been ordered by Pyongyang to take their own lives rather than get captured, according to a South Korean lawmaker who was briefed by the country's spy agency on Monday (Jan 13). "Memos found on deceased soldiers indicate that the North Korean authorities pressured them to commit suicide or self-detonate before capture," lawmaker Lee Seong-kweun claimed in comments to reporters, citing information from the National Intelligence Service. Over 300 North Korean soldiers have lost their lives and 2,700 were injured while fighting Russia's war against Ukraine. "The deployment of North Korean troops to Russia has reportedly expanded to include the Kursk region, with estimates suggesting that casualties among North Korean forces have surpassed 3,000," Lee said after a briefing from Seoul's National Intelligence Service. This includes "approximately 300 deaths and 2,700 injuries," Lee said. Out of these, some of the soldiers were granted "amnesty" or expressed willingness to join North Korea's ruling Workers' Party, he added. One soldier, who was facing imminent capture, cried out "General Kim Jong Un" before attempting to blow himself up with a grenade, said Lee. The analysis carried out by NIS unveiled that the soldiers from North Korea displayed a "lack of understanding of modern warfare," and Russia is using them in a manner which is leading to their "high number of casualties," said the lawmaker. Also read: North Korea 'significantly benefiting' from its troops fighting in Russia war: US at UNSC Zelensky proposes soldier swap with North Korea Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (Jan 12) proposed a soldier swap to North Korea, stating that he would hand them over to Pyongyang in exchange for Ukrainian POWs that were held by Russia. Zelensky's proposal came after South Korea's National Intelligence Service confirmed the announcement Kyiv made the previous day where it claimed to have captured two North Korean soldiers. In addition to the first captured soldiers from North Korea, there will undoubtedly be more. It’s only a matter of time before our troops manage to capture others. There should be no doubt left in the world that the Russian army is dependent on military assistance from North… pic.twitter.com/4RyCfUoHoC — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) January 12, 2025 Ukraine on Saturday said that the North Korean troops had been injured fighting Ukrainian soldiers in Russia's Kursk region but no evidence of their nationality was provided to back this claim. However, the NIS, as per news agency AFP, said that it had "confirmed that the Ukrainian military captured two North Korean soldiers on January 9 in the Kursk battlefield in Russia". In a post on X on Sunday, Zelensky said: "Ukraine is ready to hand over Kim Jong Un's soldiers to him if he can organize their exchange for our warriors who are being held captive in Russia." "For those North Korean soldiers who do not wish to return, there may be other options available," said Zelensky. "In particular, those who express a desire to bring peace closer by spreading the truth about this war in Korean will be given that opportunity," he added. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made regarding the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this ongoing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea soldiers fighting in Ukraine were told to kill selves before capture: Seoul

Russia said Sunday that Ukraine had launched a "counterattack" in the western border region of Kursk, where Kyiv's forces began a shock ground offensive last August.
It was not immediately clear how much Ukraine had advanced in the region, but pro-Kremlin military bloggers reported earlier that a powerful new offensive was under way.
The assault comes at a critical juncture in the nearly three-year conflict, with both sides seeking to boost their negotiating hand ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House on January 20.
"At about 9:00 am Moscow time (0600 GMT), in order to halt the advance of Russian troops in the Kursk direction, the enemy launched a counterattack," the Russian defence ministry said.
Ukraine used two tanks, a dozen armoured vehicles and a demolition unit in the assault, which was headed towards the village of Berdin -- about 15 kilometres (nine miles) northeast of Sudzha, it added.
"The operation to destroy the Ukrainian army formations continues," it said.
Pro-Kremlin military bloggers admitted the Russian army had come under pressure but said Moscow was fighting back.
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"The main events of the next attempted offensive by the Ukrainian army are clearly still ahead of us," influential pro-Russian Telegram channel Rybar said.
Images purportedly showing a column of Ukrainian armoured vehicles driving through the snow were shared by pro-Russia military blogger Dva Mayora on Telegram.
<h2>Russians are 'worried'&nbsp;</h2>
Ukrainian officials gave little detail on the new offensive, with a prominent lawmaker urging silence.
"I can't understand why it is necessary to officially report on the Kursk region. Maybe better to do it afterwards when the operation is over?" Ukrainian MP Oleksiy Goncharenko said.
Other officials expressed their glee at the fightback, which comes almost three years since Moscow launched its full-scale military assault on Ukraine.
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"Russia is getting what it deserves," Ukrainian presidential chief of staff Andriy Yermak said.
The head of Ukraine's Center for Countering Disinformation, Andriy Kovalenko, said on Telegram that defence forces were "working" in the area, without elaborating.
"In the Kursk region, the Russians are very worried because they were attacked from several directions, and it was a surprise for them," he said.
Kyiv seized dozens of villages in the Kursk region shortly after its incursion started on August 6, 2024, but its advances stalled after Moscow rushed reinforcements to the area, including thousands of troops from its ally North Korea.
A Ukrainian army source told AFP last November that Kyiv still controlled 800 square kilometres (around 300 square miles) of the Russian border region, down from previous claims it controlled almost 1,400 square kilometres.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said last year the Kursk operation has boosted Kyiv's "exchange fund" -- its negotiating position on swapping prisoners of war -- and diverted tens of thousands of Russian troops away from the eastern front.
He said Saturday evening that "up to a battalion of North Korean infantry soldiers and Russian airborne troops" had been lost in battles in the Kursk region on that day and the day before.
But Kyiv has so far been unable to halt Moscow's advances in Ukraine, which were seven times higher in 2024 than the year prior, according to an AFP analysis of data from the Institute for the Study of War.
<h2>Airports shut&nbsp;</h2>
Both Russia and Ukraine have exchanged regular attacks since the year began.
Russia said Sunday it downed dozens of Ukrainian drones overnight in a barrage that damaged homes and triggered air alerts, while Kyiv said Moscow fired 103 drones into its territory.
Four Russian airports briefly suspended traffic early Sunday for "safety" reasons, forcing at least eight planes to divert course, a spokesperson for Russia's civil aviation authority Rosaviatsia said.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | The assault comes at a critical juncture in the nearly three-year conflict, with both sides seeking to boost their negotiating hand ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House on January 20.

Russia said Sunday that Ukraine had launched a "counterattack" in the western border region of Kursk, where Kyiv's forces began a shock ground offensive last August. It was not immediately clear how much Ukraine had advanced in the region, but pro-Kremlin military bloggers reported earlier that a powerful new offensive was under way. The assault comes at a critical juncture in the nearly three-year conflict, with both sides seeking to boost their negotiating hand ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House on January 20. "At about 9:00 am Moscow time (0600 GMT), in order to halt the advance of Russian troops in the Kursk direction, the enemy launched a counterattack," the Russian defence ministry said. Ukraine used two tanks, a dozen armoured vehicles and a demolition unit in the assault, which was headed towards the village of Berdin -- about 15 kilometres (nine miles) northeast of Sudzha, it added. "The operation to destroy the Ukrainian army formations continues," it said. Pro-Kremlin military bloggers admitted the Russian army had come under pressure but said Moscow was fighting back. Also Read | On January 6 Capitol riot anniversary, Trump will be officially certified election winner "The main events of the next attempted offensive by the Ukrainian army are clearly still ahead of us," influential pro-Russian Telegram channel Rybar said. Images purportedly showing a column of Ukrainian armoured vehicles driving through the snow were shared by pro-Russia military blogger Dva Mayora on Telegram. Russians are 'worried' Ukrainian officials gave little detail on the new offensive, with a prominent lawmaker urging silence. "I can't understand why it is necessary to officially report on the Kursk region. Maybe better to do it afterwards when the operation is over?" Ukrainian MP Oleksiy Goncharenko said. Other officials expressed their glee at the fightback, which comes almost three years since Moscow launched its full-scale military assault on Ukraine. Also Read | South Korea political crisis: Thousands brave snow to rally for, against impeached President Yoon "Russia is getting what it deserves," Ukrainian presidential chief of staff Andriy Yermak said. The head of Ukraine's Center for Countering Disinformation, Andriy Kovalenko, said on Telegram that defence forces were "working" in the area, without elaborating. "In the Kursk region, the Russians are very worried because they were attacked from several directions, and it was a surprise for them," he said. Kyiv seized dozens of villages in the Kursk region shortly after its incursion started on August 6, 2024, but its advances stalled after Moscow rushed reinforcements to the area, including thousands of troops from its ally North Korea. A Ukrainian army source told AFP last November that Kyiv still controlled 800 square kilometres (around 300 square miles) of the Russian border region, down from previous claims it controlled almost 1,400 square kilometres. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said last year the Kursk operation has boosted Kyiv's "exchange fund" -- its negotiating position on swapping prisoners of war -- and diverted tens of thousands of Russian troops away from the eastern front. He said Saturday evening that "up to a battalion of North Korean infantry soldiers and Russian airborne troops" had been lost in battles in the Kursk region on that day and the day before. But Kyiv has so far been unable to halt Moscow's advances in Ukraine, which were seven times higher in 2024 than the year prior, according to an AFP analysis of data from the Institute for the Study of War. Airports shut Both Russia and Ukraine have exchanged regular attacks since the year began. Russia said Sunday it downed dozens of Ukrainian drones overnight in a barrage that damaged homes and triggered air alerts, while Kyiv said Moscow fired 103 drones into its territory. Four Russian airports briefly suspended traffic early Sunday for "safety" reasons, forcing at least eight planes to divert course, a spokesperson for Russia's civil aviation authority Rosaviatsia said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ukraine launches counterattack in Russia's Kursk region, says Russian Defence Ministry

In a significant boost to its naval power, North Korea revealed its latest warship which is equipped with advanced missile technology.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was seen inspecting the new destroyer at a facility as per the images released by state media, according to the Telegraph report.
The analysts, according to the report, believe that the warship was at the Nampho Dockyard, located on the west coast of the country.
The initial images of the incomplete warship indicate that it will have a beam of around 50 feet and an overall length of approximately 330 feet. At over 3,600 tonnes, it will represent a substantial expansion of North Korea's naval capabilities, overshadowing its current largest vessel, a 1,360-tonne frigate.
The naval warship is &ldquo;likely a destroyer and the largest warship ever constructed in the DPRK [Democratic People&rsquo;s Republic of Korea]&rdquo;, Joseph Dempsey, an analyst at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, told Seoul-based NK News.
&ldquo;Weapons-wise, the large aperture immediately forward of the bridge would imply [plans to install a] possible vertical launching system&rdquo; for missiles.
This comes as North Korea and Russia are strengthening ties following a security pact in the year 2024.
Since Russia&rsquo;s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Pyongyang and Moscow have frequently professed their military, political, and cultural ties.&nbsp;
In June this year, when Putin visited North Korea, the two nations signed a landmark defence pact. The pact came into effect in December and obligates them to provide military support in case the other is invaded.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-investigators-vow-to-execute-arrest-warrant-against-yoon-suk-yeol-before-jan-6-8582785" rel="dofollow">Also read: South Korean investigators vow to execute arrest warrant against Yoon before Jan 6</a>
<h2>North Korea's Kim sends New Year greetings to 'dearest friend' Putin</h2>
Kim Jong Un sent New Year&rsquo;s greetings to Vladimir Putin, hailing the Russian president as his "dearest friend" and comrade, as per state media reports.
&ldquo;The respected Comrade Kim Jong Un extended the warm New Year greetings to Putin, his dearest friend and comrade, offering warm greetings of best wishes to the fraternal Russian people and all the service personnel of the brave Russian army on behalf of himself, the Korean people, and all the service personnel of the armed forces of the DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea),&rdquo; the message said.&nbsp;
Recalling the &ldquo;meaningful journey&rdquo; of the two countries in 2024, Kim also expressed his &ldquo;willingness to design and push ahead with new projects.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: North Korea revealed its latest warship equipped with advanced missile technology. Images showed North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was seen inspecting the new destroyer.

In a significant boost to its naval power, North Korea revealed its latest warship which is equipped with advanced missile technology. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was seen inspecting the new destroyer at a facility as per the images released by state media, according to the Telegraph report. The analysts, according to the report, believe that the warship was at the Nampho Dockyard, located on the west coast of the country. The initial images of the incomplete warship indicate that it will have a beam of around 50 feet and an overall length of approximately 330 feet. At over 3,600 tonnes, it will represent a substantial expansion of North Korea's naval capabilities, overshadowing its current largest vessel, a 1,360-tonne frigate. The naval warship is “likely a destroyer and the largest warship ever constructed in the DPRK [Democratic People’s Republic of Korea]”, Joseph Dempsey, an analyst at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, told Seoul-based NK News. “Weapons-wise, the large aperture immediately forward of the bridge would imply [plans to install a] possible vertical launching system” for missiles. This comes as North Korea and Russia are strengthening ties following a security pact in the year 2024. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Pyongyang and Moscow have frequently professed their military, political, and cultural ties. In June this year, when Putin visited North Korea, the two nations signed a landmark defence pact. The pact came into effect in December and obligates them to provide military support in case the other is invaded. Also read: South Korean investigators vow to execute arrest warrant against Yoon before Jan 6 North Korea's Kim sends New Year greetings to 'dearest friend' Putin Kim Jong Un sent New Year’s greetings to Vladimir Putin, hailing the Russian president as his "dearest friend" and comrade, as per state media reports. “The respected Comrade Kim Jong Un extended the warm New Year greetings to Putin, his dearest friend and comrade, offering warm greetings of best wishes to the fraternal Russian people and all the service personnel of the brave Russian army on behalf of himself, the Korean people, and all the service personnel of the armed forces of the DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea),” the message said. Recalling the “meaningful journey” of the two countries in 2024, Kim also expressed his “willingness to design and push ahead with new projects.” (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea's Kim unveils country's largest warship in significant boost to naval power: Report

Ukraine's decision to turn off the taps keeping Russian gas flowing via its territory to Europe has already sown trouble in the continent's east, with Moldova declaring a state of emergency and Slovakia threatening Kyiv with retaliation.
Under a five-year deal signed in 2019 Ukraine had allowed Russia to pipe gas to Europe via its territory.&nbsp;
But that agreement is set to expire in the new year with Kyiv unwilling to extend it as a result of Moscow's invasion.&nbsp;
Although Europe has fought to wean itself off dependence on Russian gas since President Vladimir Putin sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022, several eastern European states still look to Moscow for much of their energy needs.&nbsp;
That represents an ongoing income stream for the Kremlin which Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky wishes to dry up.
Almost a third of the Russian gas sold to Europe is transported via Kyiv's territory, said Phuc-Vinh Nguyen, head of the Jacques Delors Institute's Energy Centre.
The remainder is transported via a pipeline under the Black Sea to Bulgaria, Serbia and Hungary, or else by shipments of liquefied natural gas (LNG).
But Tuesday's data from Ukrainian operator OGTSU showed deliveries via the only entry point for Russian gas into Ukraine dropping to zero as of January 1, 2025.
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<h2>Moldova 'energy blackmail'&nbsp;</h2>
The situation is at its most critical in Moldova, which borders Ukraine and has to contend with Russian-backed separatists at home.
The tiny nation had already introduced a 60-day state of emergency earlier this month in anticipation of Kyiv's expected cut.
Then on Saturday, Russia's Gazprom announced it too would halt gas deliveries due to a dispute over debt, sparking furious accusations of "oppressive tactics" from Moldova's prime minister.&nbsp;
In the capital Chisinau, where most of the festive light displays will be snuffed out, some residents voiced their fear of what comes next.&nbsp;
"It's terrible, nobody knows what's going to happen. I've bought some candles and a generator," Cristina, a 21-year-old student who refused to give her surname, told AFP.
Gazprom had already reduced its deliveries to Moldova since the beginning of the invasion, with the Russian company solely supplying the unrecognised breakaway state of Transnistria.
But the Moscow-backed region's power station still provides some two-thirds of the electricity consumed across the country.&nbsp;
"The Kremlin has once again resorted to energy blackmail in order to influence the 2025 parliamentary elections and undermine our European path," said Moldova's President Maia Sandu.
The pro-European politician was reelected in November after a vote marred by accusations of Russian interference.
Sandu offered humanitarian aid for the residents of breakaway Transnistria, who would otherwise find themselves without heating in the depths of midwinter.
But the local authorities refused, said Alexandru Flenchea, a former government official and conflict resolution expert specialising in the region.
In Russia's destabilisation strategy, "Transnistria is nothing more than collateral damage", Flenchea argued.
Phuc-Vinh agreed, charging that Putin was using gas as a "geopolitical weapon" to "undermine the region, feed the resentments of the population to influence support for Ukraine and sow the seeds of discord across Europe".
Moldova's government has responded with drastic measures to limit energy consumption, notably limits on lighting in public buildings and the use of lifts.
It also intends to make up the shortfall by buying electricity from neighbouring Romania.&nbsp;
<h2>'Totally irrational'&nbsp;</h2>
With 14 billion cubic metres transported per year via Ukraine making up just five percent of the European Union's total gas imports, the bloc said it was "prepared" for the flow's cut.
In a report published in mid-December, the EU judged the impact to be limited.&nbsp;
"The Commission... has been working for more than a year specifically on preparing for a scenario without Russian gas transiting via Ukraine," it told AFP on Tuesday.
It said that the bloc's gas infrastructure had been strengthened in the past few years, and pointed to work on making "alternative supplies" available to affected countries.
After Austria's decision in December to terminate its long-term contract with Gazprom, only Slovakia is affected.
Slovakia's leader Robert Fico -- one of the Kremlin's few allies within the EU -- has cried foul over Kyiv's decision, travelling to Moscow to meet Putin in response.&nbsp;
"Accepting the unilateral decision of the Ukrainian president is totally irrational and wrong," Fico pleaded in a letter to Brussels, decrying "a major financial impact in a complicated economic period".
By way of response, the Slovak prime minister threatened to cut off the supplies of electricity Ukraine desperately needs, with Kyiv's own energy infrastructure battered by nearly three years of systematic Russian bombardment.
On the other hand neighbouring Hungary -- which like Slovakia has remained friendly to Moscow -- receives most of its Russian gas imports via the Black Sea pipeline.&nbsp;
As a result Budapest will remain largely unaffected by Ukraine's decision.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The tiny nation had already introduced a 60-day state of emergency earlier this month in anticipation of Kyiv's expected cut.

Ukraine's decision to turn off the taps keeping Russian gas flowing via its territory to Europe has already sown trouble in the continent's east, with Moldova declaring a state of emergency and Slovakia threatening Kyiv with retaliation. Under a five-year deal signed in 2019 Ukraine had allowed Russia to pipe gas to Europe via its territory. But that agreement is set to expire in the new year with Kyiv unwilling to extend it as a result of Moscow's invasion. Although Europe has fought to wean itself off dependence on Russian gas since President Vladimir Putin sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022, several eastern European states still look to Moscow for much of their energy needs. That represents an ongoing income stream for the Kremlin which Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky wishes to dry up. Almost a third of the Russian gas sold to Europe is transported via Kyiv's territory, said Phuc-Vinh Nguyen, head of the Jacques Delors Institute's Energy Centre. The remainder is transported via a pipeline under the Black Sea to Bulgaria, Serbia and Hungary, or else by shipments of liquefied natural gas (LNG). But Tuesday's data from Ukrainian operator OGTSU showed deliveries via the only entry point for Russian gas into Ukraine dropping to zero as of January 1, 2025. Also read: New Year begins with Houthi missile attacks on Israel; one intercepted Moldova 'energy blackmail' The situation is at its most critical in Moldova, which borders Ukraine and has to contend with Russian-backed separatists at home. The tiny nation had already introduced a 60-day state of emergency earlier this month in anticipation of Kyiv's expected cut. Then on Saturday, Russia's Gazprom announced it too would halt gas deliveries due to a dispute over debt, sparking furious accusations of "oppressive tactics" from Moldova's prime minister. In the capital Chisinau, where most of the festive light displays will be snuffed out, some residents voiced their fear of what comes next. "It's terrible, nobody knows what's going to happen. I've bought some candles and a generator," Cristina, a 21-year-old student who refused to give her surname, told AFP. Gazprom had already reduced its deliveries to Moldova since the beginning of the invasion, with the Russian company solely supplying the unrecognised breakaway state of Transnistria. But the Moscow-backed region's power station still provides some two-thirds of the electricity consumed across the country. "The Kremlin has once again resorted to energy blackmail in order to influence the 2025 parliamentary elections and undermine our European path," said Moldova's President Maia Sandu. The pro-European politician was reelected in November after a vote marred by accusations of Russian interference. Sandu offered humanitarian aid for the residents of breakaway Transnistria, who would otherwise find themselves without heating in the depths of midwinter. But the local authorities refused, said Alexandru Flenchea, a former government official and conflict resolution expert specialising in the region. In Russia's destabilisation strategy, "Transnistria is nothing more than collateral damage", Flenchea argued. Phuc-Vinh agreed, charging that Putin was using gas as a "geopolitical weapon" to "undermine the region, feed the resentments of the population to influence support for Ukraine and sow the seeds of discord across Europe". Moldova's government has responded with drastic measures to limit energy consumption, notably limits on lighting in public buildings and the use of lifts. It also intends to make up the shortfall by buying electricity from neighbouring Romania. 'Totally irrational' With 14 billion cubic metres transported per year via Ukraine making up just five percent of the European Union's total gas imports, the bloc said it was "prepared" for the flow's cut. In a report published in mid-December, the EU judged the impact to be limited. "The Commission... has been working for more than a year specifically on preparing for a scenario without Russian gas transiting via Ukraine," it told AFP on Tuesday. It said that the bloc's gas infrastructure had been strengthened in the past few years, and pointed to work on making "alternative supplies" available to affected countries. After Austria's decision in December to terminate its long-term contract with Gazprom, only Slovakia is affected. Slovakia's leader Robert Fico -- one of the Kremlin's few allies within the EU -- has cried foul over Kyiv's decision, travelling to Moscow to meet Putin in response. "Accepting the unilateral decision of the Ukrainian president is totally irrational and wrong," Fico pleaded in a letter to Brussels, decrying "a major financial impact in a complicated economic period". By way of response, the Slovak prime minister threatened to cut off the supplies of electricity Ukraine desperately needs, with Kyiv's own energy infrastructure battered by nearly three years of systematic Russian bombardment. On the other hand neighbouring Hungary -- which like Slovakia has remained friendly to Moscow -- receives most of its Russian gas imports via the Black Sea pipeline. As a result Budapest will remain largely unaffected by Ukraine's decision. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

End of Russian gas via Ukraine sparks unease in eastern Europe

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un sent New Year&rsquo;s greetings to Vladimir Putin hailing the Russian president as his "dearest friend", as per state media reports.
Since Russia&rsquo;s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Pyongyang and Moscow have frequently professed their military, political and cultural ties.&nbsp;
In June this year, when Putin visited the North region of the country, the two nations signed a landmark defence pact. The pact came into effect in December and obligates them to provide military support in case the other is invaded.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-not-satisfied-with-us-president-elect-trumps-nato-freeze-and-peacekeeper-plan-for-ukraine-report-8576040" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Russia 'not satisfied' with Donald Trump's Ukraine peace plan: Report</a>
<h2>Warm greetings for 'comrade'</h2>
In the message, Kim addressed Putin as his &ldquo;dearest friend and comrade,&rdquo; according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
&ldquo;The respected Comrade Kim Jong Un extended the warm New Year greetings to Putin, his dearest friend and comrade, offering warm greetings of best wishes to the fraternal Russian people and all the service personnel of the brave Russian army on behalf of himself, the Korean people and all the service personnel of the armed forces of the DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea),&rdquo; it said.&nbsp;
<h2>'Meaningful journey'</h2>
Recalling the &ldquo;meaningful journey&rdquo; of the two countries in 2024, Kim also expressed his &ldquo;willingness to design and push ahead with new projects.&rdquo;
Wishing success in his leadership and prosperity of Russia, Kim said that he is hoping that the New Year 2025 will be recorded as the first year of war victory in the 21st century "when the Russian army and people defeat neo-Nazism and achieve a great victory".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-troops-killing-themselves-rather-than-surrendering-to-ukraine-forces-claims-us-8573283" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">N Korean troops killing themselves rather than surrendering to Ukraine, claims US</a>
The United States and South Korea have alleged that North Korea has been sending over 10,000 troops to assist Russia's fight against Ukraine. Experts believe Kim is eager to acquire advanced technology from Moscow and combat experience for his soldiers in exchange.
Earlier, Putin had sent similar greetings to Kim to praise their bilateral ties, the North Korean state media said on Friday (Dec 27).
(With inputs from agencies)

In June this year, when Putin visited the North region of the country, the two nations signed a landmark defence pact. The pact came into effect in December and obligates them to provide military support in case the other is invaded.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un sent New Year’s greetings to Vladimir Putin hailing the Russian president as his "dearest friend", as per state media reports. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Pyongyang and Moscow have frequently professed their military, political and cultural ties. In June this year, when Putin visited the North region of the country, the two nations signed a landmark defence pact. The pact came into effect in December and obligates them to provide military support in case the other is invaded. Also read | Russia 'not satisfied' with Donald Trump's Ukraine peace plan: Report Warm greetings for 'comrade' In the message, Kim addressed Putin as his “dearest friend and comrade,” according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). “The respected Comrade Kim Jong Un extended the warm New Year greetings to Putin, his dearest friend and comrade, offering warm greetings of best wishes to the fraternal Russian people and all the service personnel of the brave Russian army on behalf of himself, the Korean people and all the service personnel of the armed forces of the DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea),” it said. 'Meaningful journey' Recalling the “meaningful journey” of the two countries in 2024, Kim also expressed his “willingness to design and push ahead with new projects.” Wishing success in his leadership and prosperity of Russia, Kim said that he is hoping that the New Year 2025 will be recorded as the first year of war victory in the 21st century "when the Russian army and people defeat neo-Nazism and achieve a great victory". Also read | N Korean troops killing themselves rather than surrendering to Ukraine, claims US The United States and South Korea have alleged that North Korea has been sending over 10,000 troops to assist Russia's fight against Ukraine. Experts believe Kim is eager to acquire advanced technology from Moscow and combat experience for his soldiers in exchange. Earlier, Putin had sent similar greetings to Kim to praise their bilateral ties, the North Korean state media said on Friday (Dec 27). (With inputs from agencies)

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un sends New Year greetings to 'dearest friend' Putin

Russia's Gazprom announced Saturday that it will halt gas supplies to Moldova from January 1 over a debt dispute during a state of emergency over energy security in the tiny country. 
The move comes as several Eastern <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/georgia-political-unrest-pro-eu-protests-continue-outside-georgian-parliament-785434">European countries</a> brace for an end to Russian gas supplies, as Kyiv will block the flow of Russian gas via its territory in several days. 
Moldova earlier this month introduced a 60-day state of emergency before the expected cut.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-has-strong-say-in-lasting-peace-in-ukraine-says-moldova-fm-mihail-popsoi-exclusive-interview-784433">India Has Strong Say In Lasting Peace In Ukraine Says Moldova FM Mihail Popsoi | Exclusive Interview</a>
"Gazprom will introduce a restriction on natural gas supplies to the Republic of Moldova to zero cubic meters per day from 0500 GMT on January 1, 2025," the company said in a statement, accusing Chisinau of failing to settle debts.
It said it made the move "in connection with the refusal by the Moldovan side to regulate debts". 
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/moldova-aims-to-attract-more-indian-students-education-minister-dan-perciun-779197">Moldova aims to attract more Indian students: Education minister Dan Perciun</a>
Gazprom accused Chisinau of not fulfilling its side of contracts and said it "reserved the right" for further action, including terminating a gas supply contract with Moldova. 
Russia supplies <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-has-strong-say-in-lasting-peace-in-ukraine-moldova-fm-mihail-popsoi-785173">Moldova</a> with gas piped to the separatist region of Transnistria.&nbsp;&nbsp;
The country gets most of its electricity from a power station based in Transnistria that uses Russian gas.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

World: "Gazprom will introduce a restriction on natural gas supplies to the Republic of Moldova to zero cubic meters per day from 0500 GMT on January 1, 2025," the company said in a statement.

Russia's Gazprom announced Saturday that it will halt gas supplies to Moldova from January 1 over a debt dispute during a state of emergency over energy security in the tiny country. The move comes as several Eastern European countries brace for an end to Russian gas supplies, as Kyiv will block the flow of Russian gas via its territory in several days. Moldova earlier this month introduced a 60-day state of emergency before the expected cut. Also read: India Has Strong Say In Lasting Peace In Ukraine Says Moldova FM Mihail Popsoi | Exclusive Interview "Gazprom will introduce a restriction on natural gas supplies to the Republic of Moldova to zero cubic meters per day from 0500 GMT on January 1, 2025," the company said in a statement, accusing Chisinau of failing to settle debts. It said it made the move "in connection with the refusal by the Moldovan side to regulate debts". Also read: Moldova aims to attract more Indian students: Education minister Dan Perciun Gazprom accused Chisinau of not fulfilling its side of contracts and said it "reserved the right" for further action, including terminating a gas supply contract with Moldova. Russia supplies Moldova with gas piped to the separatist region of Transnistria. The country gets most of its electricity from a power station based in Transnistria that uses Russian gas. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Russia's Gazprom to cut gas supplies to Moldova from Jan 1

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