<p>NATO said on Wednesday (July 26) said that it was stepping up surveillance of the Black Sea region. The alliance condemned Russia's exit from the grain deal that previously ensured safe passage of Ukrainian grain-carrying ships through the Black Sea.</p>

<p>The announcement from NATO came after a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council. It is a body established earlier this month to coordinate cooperation between the Western military alliance and Kyiv.</p>

<p>"Allies and Ukraine strongly condemned Russia’s decision to withdraw from the Black Sea grain deal and its deliberate attempts to stop Ukraine’s agricultural exports on which hundreds of millions of people worldwide depend," NATO said in a statement.</p>

<p>"NATO and Allies are stepping up surveillance and reconnaissance in the Black Sea region, including with maritime patrol aircraft and drones," the statement said.</p>

<p>The grain deal expired on July 17 after Russia quit participation. The United Nations has said that Russia's move would "strike a blow to people in need everywhere."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Leaked documents highlight Germany's criticism of Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia has since hinted that it may consident revival of the deal if its demands to improve and better facilitate exports of Russian grain and fertilizer were met.</p>

<h2><strong>NATO criticises Russian warning</strong></h2>

<p>The NATO statement criticised a Russian warning that parts of the Black Sea's international waters were temporarily unsafe for navigation.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-romanian-ship-damaged-during-russian-attacks-on-reni-port-say-reports-619464">Ukraine war: Romanian ship damaged during Russian attacks on Reni port, say reports</a></strong></p>

<p>As part of that warning, Russia also said that any ships travelling to Ukraine's Black Sea ports would be seen as possibly carrying military cargo.</p>

<p>"Allies noted that Russia’s new warning area in the Black Sea, within Bulgaria’s exclusive economic zone, has created new risks for miscalculation and escalation, as well as serious impediments to freedom of navigation," the NATO statement said.</p>

<p>Bulgaria is a member of NATO.</p>

<p>NATO also condemned recent Russian attacks on Odesa, Mykolaiv and other port cities and also a drone strike on Ukraine's grain storage facility in the port city of Reni. The city is near the border with NATO-member Romania.</p>

<p>"We remain ready to defend every inch of Allied territory from any aggression,” NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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NATO said on Wednesday (July 26) said that it was stepping up surveillance of the Black Sea region. The alliance condemned Russia's exit from the grain deal that previously ensured safe passage of Ukrainian grain-carrying ships through the Black Sea.

NATO said on Wednesday (July 26) said that it was stepping up surveillance of the Black Sea region. The alliance condemned Russia's exit from the grain deal that previously ensured safe passage of Ukrainian grain-carrying ships through the Black Sea. The announcement from NATO came after a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council. It is a body established earlier this month to coordinate cooperation between the Western military alliance and Kyiv. "Allies and Ukraine strongly condemned Russia’s decision to withdraw from the Black Sea grain deal and its deliberate attempts to stop Ukraine’s agricultural exports on which hundreds of millions of people worldwide depend," NATO said in a statement. "NATO and Allies are stepping up surveillance and reconnaissance in the Black Sea region, including with maritime patrol aircraft and drones," the statement said. The grain deal expired on July 17 after Russia quit participation. The United Nations has said that Russia's move would "strike a blow to people in need everywhere." Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Leaked documents highlight Germany's criticism of Ukraine × Russia has since hinted that it may consident revival of the deal if its demands to improve and better facilitate exports of Russian grain and fertilizer were met. NATO criticises Russian warning The NATO statement criticised a Russian warning that parts of the Black Sea's international waters were temporarily unsafe for navigation. Also Read | Ukraine war: Romanian ship damaged during Russian attacks on Reni port, say reports As part of that warning, Russia also said that any ships travelling to Ukraine's Black Sea ports would be seen as possibly carrying military cargo. "Allies noted that Russia’s new warning area in the Black Sea, within Bulgaria’s exclusive economic zone, has created new risks for miscalculation and escalation, as well as serious impediments to freedom of navigation," the NATO statement said. Bulgaria is a member of NATO. NATO also condemned recent Russian attacks on Odesa, Mykolaiv and other port cities and also a drone strike on Ukraine's grain storage facility in the port city of Reni. The city is near the border with NATO-member Romania. "We remain ready to defend every inch of Allied territory from any aggression,” NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

NATO is boosting Black Sea surveillance after Russia's grain deal exit

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidRPlm9UUBT5pc" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Russian strikes on the Ukrainian city of Odesa continued overnight as missiles targeted the port infrastructure, the region's governor said on Thursday (July 27).</p>

<p>Ever since Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal earlier this month, attacks have intensified on Ukrainian cities. According to Governor Oleg Kiper, one person died in the overnight attacks where Caliber missiles were used.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"At night, [Russia] launched a missile attack on the Odesa region. The target of the aggressor is the port infrastructure. The Russians fired Caliber missiles from a submarine in the Black Sea," wrote Kiper on Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A civil guard born in 1979 died as a result of the hit. The equipment of one of the cargo terminals was damaged, and a security building and two cars were destroyed. Sincere condolences to the family of the deceased."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Ukraine's southern military command said an overnight thunderstorm aided the Russian side in launching the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The enemy took advantage of the weather conditions, and launched the missile during the thunder and wind and at an extremely low height in order to make spotting them more difficult," said the spokesperson.</p>

<p>According to senior Ukrainian officials, over the past nine days, Russia has damaged&nbsp;26 port infrastructure facilities and five civilian vessels. Last week, a Chinese consulate in the port&nbsp;city was also damaged by the Russian strikes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Ukrainian president aide admits counteroffensive will take long</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Russia treating cargo vessels as hostile&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>After pulling out of the deal which granted safe passage to cargo ships carrying grain shipments, Russia said it was keeping a close tab on the Ukrainian vessels, and would consider them as&nbsp;potential military targets.</p>

<p>Notably, on Thursday, Russia's FSB security service turned away a cargo ship bound for the port of Rostov-on-Don after finding "traces of explosives" on it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-consulate-damaged-by-russian-strike-in-port-city-of-odesa-reports-617817" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Chinese consulate damaged by Russian strike in port city of Odesa: Reports</strong></a></p>

<p>The FSB stated the&nbsp;ship was coming from Turkey and had previously sailed to the Ukrainian port of Reni.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A decision was taken to prevent the ship's passage under the shipping arch of the Kerch Strait and it has been turned back from Russian territorial waters," it added.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian strikes on the Ukrainian city of Odesa continued overnight as missiles targeted the port infrastructure, the region's governor said on Thursday (July 27).

Russian strikes on the Ukrainian city of Odesa continued overnight as missiles targeted the port infrastructure, the region's governor said on Thursday (July 27). Ever since Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal earlier this month, attacks have intensified on Ukrainian cities. According to Governor Oleg Kiper, one person died in the overnight attacks where Caliber missiles were used. "At night, [Russia] launched a missile attack on the Odesa region. The target of the aggressor is the port infrastructure. The Russians fired Caliber missiles from a submarine in the Black Sea," wrote Kiper on Telegram. "A civil guard born in 1979 died as a result of the hit. The equipment of one of the cargo terminals was damaged, and a security building and two cars were destroyed. Sincere condolences to the family of the deceased." Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Ukraine's southern military command said an overnight thunderstorm aided the Russian side in launching the attack. "The enemy took advantage of the weather conditions, and launched the missile during the thunder and wind and at an extremely low height in order to make spotting them more difficult," said the spokesperson. According to senior Ukrainian officials, over the past nine days, Russia has damaged 26 port infrastructure facilities and five civilian vessels. Last week, a Chinese consulate in the port city was also damaged by the Russian strikes. Watch: Ukrainian president aide admits counteroffensive will take long Russia treating cargo vessels as hostile After pulling out of the deal which granted safe passage to cargo ships carrying grain shipments, Russia said it was keeping a close tab on the Ukrainian vessels, and would consider them as potential military targets. Notably, on Thursday, Russia's FSB security service turned away a cargo ship bound for the port of Rostov-on-Don after finding "traces of explosives" on it. Also read | Chinese consulate damaged by Russian strike in port city of Odesa: Reports The FSB stated the ship was coming from Turkey and had previously sailed to the Ukrainian port of Reni. "A decision was taken to prevent the ship's passage under the shipping arch of the Kerch Strait and it has been turned back from Russian territorial waters," it added. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia continues to pound Odesa with overnight missile attacks, kills one

<p>Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, who is on a visit to North Korea, called Pyongyang an "important partner".</p>

<p>Hailing Moscow's partnership with North Korea during a meeting with his&nbsp;counterpart Kang Sun Nam in Pyongyang, Shoigu, as per a ministry statement said, "For Russia, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea is an important partner, with which we share a common border and a rich history of cooperation."</p>

<h2><strong>Russia and North Korea: A rich history of cooperation</strong></h2>

<p>As per AFP, Shoigu said that the meeting between his nation's delegation and the North would "contribute to strengthening cooperation between our ministries of defence".</p>

<p>Shoigu also said that he was "grateful to my Korean friends for the rich programme offered. From the first minutes, I felt your care and attention".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-romanian-ship-damaged-during-russian-attacks-on-reni-port-say-reports-619464">Ukraine war: Romanian ship damaged during Russian attacks on Reni port, say reports</a></strong></p>

<p>The minister, along with other delegates from Russia, and China, is in North Korea to attend Korean War anniversary events. On Thursday Pyongyang marks the 70th anniversary of the signing of the July 27, 1953 Korean War armistice, that is celebrated in North Korea as Victory Day.</p>

<p>Russia and North Korea are historic allies, and Moscow remains one of a handful of nations with which Pyongyang maintains friendly relations.</p>

<p>Even as the global community sanctions Russia over its invasion of Ukraine, North Korea and its leader Kim Jong Un remain steadfast in their support of Moscow. As per the United States,&nbsp;the nation's support extends to supplying rockets and missiles.</p>

<h2>Shoigu&nbsp;gets&nbsp;<strong>red carpet welcome&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>North Korea, as per state media reports, rolled out the red carpet for the Russian defence minister.</p>

<p>As per a report by state-run Korean Central News Agency, to welcome Shoigu and his delegation on Tuesday evening, the Pyongyang International Airport was "wrapped up in a warm welcome atmosphere" as the Russian national anthem blared on speakers.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-us-marine-who-was-released-from-russian-prison-injured-fighting-for-ukraine-619448">Former US Marine, who was released from Russian prison, injured fighting for Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>The Russian defence minister was greeted by North Korean Defence Minister Kang Sun Nam himself. Also lining the airport were hundreds of uniformed soldiers of the Korean People's Army, reported&nbsp;the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper.</p>

<h2><strong>A significant visit</strong></h2>

<p>Talking to AFP, Park Won-gon, director of Ewha University's Institute of Unification Studies said that the fact that the Russian defence minister flew to Pyongyang while his country is at war was "very significant".</p>

<p>"Even though the emergency quarantine system remains in place, Kim Jong Un may have felt the need to show something to his people at the Victory Day celebrations," he said, adding that for the Chinese and Russians, their presence could send a "strong unified message," to the United States.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, who is on a visit to North Korea, called Pyongyang an "important partner". Hailing Moscow's partnership with North Korea during a meeting with his counterpart Kang Sun Nam in Pyongyang, Shoigu, as per a ministry statement said, "For Russia, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea is an important partner, with which we share a common border and a rich history of cooperation.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, who is on a visit to North Korea, called Pyongyang an "important partner". Hailing Moscow's partnership with North Korea during a meeting with his counterpart Kang Sun Nam in Pyongyang, Shoigu, as per a ministry statement said, "For Russia, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea is an important partner, with which we share a common border and a rich history of cooperation." Russia and North Korea: A rich history of cooperation As per AFP, Shoigu said that the meeting between his nation's delegation and the North would "contribute to strengthening cooperation between our ministries of defence". Shoigu also said that he was "grateful to my Korean friends for the rich programme offered. From the first minutes, I felt your care and attention". Also read | Ukraine war: Romanian ship damaged during Russian attacks on Reni port, say reports The minister, along with other delegates from Russia, and China, is in North Korea to attend Korean War anniversary events. On Thursday Pyongyang marks the 70th anniversary of the signing of the July 27, 1953 Korean War armistice, that is celebrated in North Korea as Victory Day. Russia and North Korea are historic allies, and Moscow remains one of a handful of nations with which Pyongyang maintains friendly relations. Even as the global community sanctions Russia over its invasion of Ukraine, North Korea and its leader Kim Jong Un remain steadfast in their support of Moscow. As per the United States, the nation's support extends to supplying rockets and missiles. Shoigu gets red carpet welcome North Korea, as per state media reports, rolled out the red carpet for the Russian defence minister. As per a report by state-run Korean Central News Agency, to welcome Shoigu and his delegation on Tuesday evening, the Pyongyang International Airport was "wrapped up in a warm welcome atmosphere" as the Russian national anthem blared on speakers. Also read | Former US Marine, who was released from Russian prison, injured fighting for Ukraine The Russian defence minister was greeted by North Korean Defence Minister Kang Sun Nam himself. Also lining the airport were hundreds of uniformed soldiers of the Korean People's Army, reported the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper. A significant visit Talking to AFP, Park Won-gon, director of Ewha University's Institute of Unification Studies said that the fact that the Russian defence minister flew to Pyongyang while his country is at war was "very significant". "Even though the emergency quarantine system remains in place, Kim Jong Un may have felt the need to show something to his people at the Victory Day celebrations," he said, adding that for the Chinese and Russians, their presence could send a "strong unified message," to the United States. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

North Korea an 'important partner', says Russian Defence Minister Shoigu hailing historic cooperation

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid9kjojMaM31b0" /><meta charset="utf-8" /><meta name="uuid" content="uuid9kjojMaM31b0" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Russia condemned the Ukrainian drone attack on non-residential buildings in the capital city of Moscow on Monday (July 24) and vowed retaliatory measures, after Kyiv claimed responsibility for the strikes.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We regard what happened as another use of terrorist methods by the military-political leadership of Ukraine, intimidation of the civilian population. These attacks had no military meaning,” Russia's foreign ministry was quoted as saying by CNN.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The Russian side reserves the right to take tough retaliatory measures,” the ministry said, adding that the Investigative Committee of Russia had opened criminal cases in response to these incidents and that those involved would be brought to justice.</p>

<p>The ministry also urged "international organisations" to give the attack a "proper assessment".&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russia-talks-of-retaliation-after-ukrainian-drone-strike-near-moscow-army-hq-619008" target="_blank"><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Russia talks of retaliation after 'Ukrainian drone strike' near Moscow army HQ</strong></a></p>

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<p>On Monday, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin took to Telegram to first break the news that "drone strikes" had hit two "non-residential buildings" in the Russian capital at night.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today around 4 am (0100 GMT), drone strikes on two non-residential buildings were reported. There is no serious destruction or casualties," he wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Russian news agency TASS, one of the drones fell in Komsomolsky Prospekt, close to Russia's defence ministry while another hit a business centre on Likhacheva Street, near one of the main ring roads.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moscow managed to thwart the attacks from causing major human and property damage but termed the strikes as a 'terrorist act'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A Kyiv regime attempt to carry out a terrorist act using two drones on objects on the territory of the city of Moscow was stopped," Russia's defence ministry said.</p>

<p>"Two Ukrainian drones were suppressed and crashed. There are no casualties."</p>

<h2><strong>Kyiv accepts responsibility&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Later in the day, the Ukrainian side accepted responsibility for the attack, saying there might be more such strikes in the future.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Drones attacked the orc (Russian) capital and Crimea last night. Electronic warfare and air defence are becoming less and less capable of protecting the occupiers' skies,” said Mykhailo Fedorov, the Ukrainian minister of digital transformation, in a Telegram post on Monday.</p>

<p>“Whatever happens, there will be more of it,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Previous instances of drone attacks&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>This is not the first instance when Russia has accused Ukraine of targetting the capital city using drones. In May, Kremlin claimed it was attacked by Ukrainian drones which it deemed was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drone-strikes-hit-two-buildings-in-moscow-russia-calls-it-a-terrorist-act-618735" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Drone strikes hit two buildings in Moscow, Russia calls it a 'terrorist act'</strong></a></p>

<p>At the time, Kremlin described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and an "assassination attempt on the president of Russia".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russia condemned the Ukrainian drone attack on non-residential buildings in the capital city of Moscow on Monday (July 24) and vowed retaliatory measures, after Kyiv claimed responsibility for the strikes.

Russia condemned the Ukrainian drone attack on non-residential buildings in the capital city of Moscow on Monday (July 24) and vowed retaliatory measures, after Kyiv claimed responsibility for the strikes. “We regard what happened as another use of terrorist methods by the military-political leadership of Ukraine, intimidation of the civilian population. These attacks had no military meaning,” Russia's foreign ministry was quoted as saying by CNN. “The Russian side reserves the right to take tough retaliatory measures,” the ministry said, adding that the Investigative Committee of Russia had opened criminal cases in response to these incidents and that those involved would be brought to justice. The ministry also urged "international organisations" to give the attack a "proper assessment". Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Russia talks of retaliation after 'Ukrainian drone strike' near Moscow army HQ × On Monday, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin took to Telegram to first break the news that "drone strikes" had hit two "non-residential buildings" in the Russian capital at night. "Today around 4 am (0100 GMT), drone strikes on two non-residential buildings were reported. There is no serious destruction or casualties," he wrote. According to Russian news agency TASS, one of the drones fell in Komsomolsky Prospekt, close to Russia's defence ministry while another hit a business centre on Likhacheva Street, near one of the main ring roads. Moscow managed to thwart the attacks from causing major human and property damage but termed the strikes as a 'terrorist act'. "A Kyiv regime attempt to carry out a terrorist act using two drones on objects on the territory of the city of Moscow was stopped," Russia's defence ministry said. "Two Ukrainian drones were suppressed and crashed. There are no casualties." Kyiv accepts responsibility Later in the day, the Ukrainian side accepted responsibility for the attack, saying there might be more such strikes in the future. “Drones attacked the orc (Russian) capital and Crimea last night. Electronic warfare and air defence are becoming less and less capable of protecting the occupiers' skies,” said Mykhailo Fedorov, the Ukrainian minister of digital transformation, in a Telegram post on Monday. “Whatever happens, there will be more of it,” he added. Previous instances of drone attacks This is not the first instance when Russia has accused Ukraine of targetting the capital city using drones. In May, Kremlin claimed it was attacked by Ukrainian drones which it deemed was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life. Also read | Drone strikes hit two buildings in Moscow, Russia calls it a 'terrorist act' At the time, Kremlin described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and an "assassination attempt on the president of Russia". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia vows 'retaliatory' action after Kyiv's drones  strike near defence HQ in Moscow

<p>United States on Tuesday (July 25) claimed that the Russian fighter jets fired flares at an American MQ-9 Reaper drone while flying over Syria.</p>

<p>The incident happened on Sunday (July 25) when it was on a counter-terrorism mission against the Islamic State group, US Air Forces Central said.</p>

<p>"On 23 July, 2023 at 12:23 a.m. (EST) Russian fighter aircraft flew dangerously close to a U.S. MQ-9 drone on a defeat-ISIS mission, harassing the MQ-9 and deploying flares from a position directly overhead, with only a few meters of separation between aircraft," Air Forces Central Commander Lt. Gen. Alex Grynkewich said.</p>

<p>The drone’s propeller suffered “serious” damages, the air force said.</p>

<h2><strong>US calls upon Russia to exercise restraint&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>“The Sukhoi Su-35 began dropping flares in front of the US drone, severely damaging its propellor, the Air Force said. The drone’s crew was able to control the aircraft and fly it back to its home base,” Grynkewich said in a statement</p>

<p>The US Air Force called upon the Russian forces in Syria “to put an immediate end to this reckless, unprovoked, and unprofessional behaviour.”</p>

<p>There have been increasingly close encounters between the Russian fighter jets and US drones operating over Syria.</p>

<p>This is the second time this month that US and Russian jets have come in close proximity in the Syrian air.</p>

<h2><strong>Gravitas : US releases video of Russian jets attacking US air force drones</strong></h2>

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<h2><strong>Spike in confrontation&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Last week, a Russian Su-35 fighter endangered the crew of a manned US MC-12 by forcing it to fly through turbulence, according to a release from Air Forces Central.</p>

<p>On July 5, three Russian fighter jets reportedly “harassed” three US drones flying over Syria.</p>

<p>According to the US military, Russian jets dropped parachute flares in front of the drones, forcing the operators of the unmanned aircraft to take evasive manoeuvres.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/reckless-russian-fighter-jets-harass-us-drones-in-syrian-skies-for-second-time-in-two-days-612896">US drones harassed by 'reckless' Russian fighter jets in Syrian skies for second time in two days</a></p>

<p>And on July 14, a senior US defence official said another Russian fighter jet flew near an MQ-9 Reaper drone over Syria in an unprofessional manner.</p>

<p>The increased confrontation between the countries in the Syrian skies can be attributed to the presence of their militaries&nbsp;in the North African region.</p>

<p>While the US has around 900 troops in eastern Syria fighting against the IS terrorist group, Russia has a military presence in northwestern Syria as part of its mission to support Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.</p>

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United States on Tuesday (July 25) claimed that the Russian fighter jets fired flares at an American MQ-9 Reaper drone while flying over Syria. The incident happened on Sunday (July 25) when it was on a counter-terrorism mission against the Islamic State group, US Air Forces Central said.

United States on Tuesday (July 25) claimed that the Russian fighter jets fired flares at an American MQ-9 Reaper drone while flying over Syria. The incident happened on Sunday (July 25) when it was on a counter-terrorism mission against the Islamic State group, US Air Forces Central said. "On 23 July, 2023 at 12:23 a.m. (EST) Russian fighter aircraft flew dangerously close to a U.S. MQ-9 drone on a defeat-ISIS mission, harassing the MQ-9 and deploying flares from a position directly overhead, with only a few meters of separation between aircraft," Air Forces Central Commander Lt. Gen. Alex Grynkewich said. The drone’s propeller suffered “serious” damages, the air force said. US calls upon Russia to exercise restraint “The Sukhoi Su-35 began dropping flares in front of the US drone, severely damaging its propellor, the Air Force said. The drone’s crew was able to control the aircraft and fly it back to its home base,” Grynkewich said in a statement The US Air Force called upon the Russian forces in Syria “to put an immediate end to this reckless, unprovoked, and unprofessional behaviour.” There have been increasingly close encounters between the Russian fighter jets and US drones operating over Syria. This is the second time this month that US and Russian jets have come in close proximity in the Syrian air. Gravitas : US releases video of Russian jets attacking US air force drones Spike in confrontation Last week, a Russian Su-35 fighter endangered the crew of a manned US MC-12 by forcing it to fly through turbulence, according to a release from Air Forces Central. On July 5, three Russian fighter jets reportedly “harassed” three US drones flying over Syria. According to the US military, Russian jets dropped parachute flares in front of the drones, forcing the operators of the unmanned aircraft to take evasive manoeuvres. Also read | US drones harassed by 'reckless' Russian fighter jets in Syrian skies for second time in two days And on July 14, a senior US defence official said another Russian fighter jet flew near an MQ-9 Reaper drone over Syria in an unprofessional manner. The increased confrontation between the countries in the Syrian skies can be attributed to the presence of their militaries in the North African region. While the US has around 900 troops in eastern Syria fighting against the IS terrorist group, Russia has a military presence in northwestern Syria as part of its mission to support Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian fighter jets fire at US Reaper drone while flying over Syria

<p>The International Monetary Fund (IMF), on Tuesday (July 25) slightly raised the outlook for global growth this year given the resilient economy, particularly, service sector activity in the first quarter of 2023. However, the global lender also warned about the persistent challenges which are dampening the medium-term outlook. Meanwhile, India’s projection of economic growth is at 6.1 per cent in this year.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>IMF about the growth forecast</strong></h2>

<p>In its latest, World Economic Outlook (WEO), the IMF projected global real GDP growth of 3.0 per cent for this year, which is 0.2 percentage points higher than its April forecast. But the global growth is expected to stay there and the forecast for 2024 remained unchanged at 3.0 per cent, amid weak growth among the world’s advanced economies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The growth forecast was slightly raised as the IMF noted ease in soaring inflation as well as the acute stress that the banking sector witnessed. “We’re not out of the woods yet and growth remains on the low side,” IMF Chief Economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas told AFP, in an interview.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“What we are seeing when we look five years out is actually close to 3.0%, maybe a little bit above 3.0%. This is a significant slowdown compared to what we had pre-COVID,” the IMF chief economist told Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The global economic growth is nearly half of what it was in two years with 6.3 per cent and also lower than 3.5 per cent in 2022, the WEO noted. Gourinchas told Reuters how the lowered growth is also related to the ageing of the global population, particularly in countries like China, Japan, and Germany.</p>

<h2><strong>Lower inflation</strong></h2>

<p>According to the IMF, the global headline inflation may fall to 6.8 per cent this year, from 8.7 per cent in 2022 and may witness a further drop to 5.2 per cent next year. On the other hand, core inflation would decline more gradually, with 6.0 per cent in 2023 from 6.5 per cent, last year to 4.7 per cent in 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gourinchas told Reuters we might have to wait until the end of 2024 or early 2025 to see the drop in inflation which the central bankers have targeted and the current cycle of monetary tightening would end.</p>

<p>However, the IMF notes that if the war in Ukraine were to intensify, given Russia’s backing out of the Black Sea grain deal, and the world witnesses a rise in extreme weather events due to the El Nino weather pattern, it could raise the prices of commodities. This in turn could trigger further rate hikes.</p>

<p>The IMF has said the world is a better place than it was and also hailed the World Health Organization’s decision to end the global health emergency due to COVID-19, which has reduced shipping costs and delivery times to pre-pandemic levels.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Broadly stable’ outlook for EMDEs</strong></h2>

<p>In the emerging markets developing economies (EMDEs), a growth of 4.0 per cent is expected in 2023 and 4.1 per cent in 2024, while the overall outlook is “broadly stable,” said the IMF. Additionally, the WEO also noted that much of the global growth this year will be contributed by EMDEs like India and China, with substantially slow economic activity in advanced economies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report noted that China’s growth forecast for this year remained unchanged at 5.2 per cent. Meanwhile, advanced economies are expected to grow 1.5 per cent in 2023, which was raised by 0.2 percentage points from April and 1.4 percent in 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What about India?</strong></h2>

<p>India’s growth is projected to be 6.1 per cent this year, which is up by 0.2 percentage points since the previous forecast in April. The report attributed this growth to “momentum from stronger-than-expected growth in the fourth quarter of 2022 as a result of stronger domestic investment.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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The International Monetary Fund (IMF), on Tuesday (July 25) slightly raised the outlook for global growth this year given the resilient economy, particularly, service sector activity in the first quarter of 2023.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF), on Tuesday (July 25) slightly raised the outlook for global growth this year given the resilient economy, particularly, service sector activity in the first quarter of 2023. However, the global lender also warned about the persistent challenges which are dampening the medium-term outlook. Meanwhile, India’s projection of economic growth is at 6.1 per cent in this year. IMF about the growth forecast In its latest, World Economic Outlook (WEO), the IMF projected global real GDP growth of 3.0 per cent for this year, which is 0.2 percentage points higher than its April forecast. But the global growth is expected to stay there and the forecast for 2024 remained unchanged at 3.0 per cent, amid weak growth among the world’s advanced economies. The growth forecast was slightly raised as the IMF noted ease in soaring inflation as well as the acute stress that the banking sector witnessed. “We’re not out of the woods yet and growth remains on the low side,” IMF Chief Economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas told AFP, in an interview. “What we are seeing when we look five years out is actually close to 3.0%, maybe a little bit above 3.0%. This is a significant slowdown compared to what we had pre-COVID,” the IMF chief economist told Reuters. The global economic growth is nearly half of what it was in two years with 6.3 per cent and also lower than 3.5 per cent in 2022, the WEO noted. Gourinchas told Reuters how the lowered growth is also related to the ageing of the global population, particularly in countries like China, Japan, and Germany. Lower inflation According to the IMF, the global headline inflation may fall to 6.8 per cent this year, from 8.7 per cent in 2022 and may witness a further drop to 5.2 per cent next year. On the other hand, core inflation would decline more gradually, with 6.0 per cent in 2023 from 6.5 per cent, last year to 4.7 per cent in 2024. Gourinchas told Reuters we might have to wait until the end of 2024 or early 2025 to see the drop in inflation which the central bankers have targeted and the current cycle of monetary tightening would end. However, the IMF notes that if the war in Ukraine were to intensify, given Russia’s backing out of the Black Sea grain deal, and the world witnesses a rise in extreme weather events due to the El Nino weather pattern, it could raise the prices of commodities. This in turn could trigger further rate hikes. The IMF has said the world is a better place than it was and also hailed the World Health Organization’s decision to end the global health emergency due to COVID-19, which has reduced shipping costs and delivery times to pre-pandemic levels. ‘Broadly stable’ outlook for EMDEs In the emerging markets developing economies (EMDEs), a growth of 4.0 per cent is expected in 2023 and 4.1 per cent in 2024, while the overall outlook is “broadly stable,” said the IMF. Additionally, the WEO also noted that much of the global growth this year will be contributed by EMDEs like India and China, with substantially slow economic activity in advanced economies. The report noted that China’s growth forecast for this year remained unchanged at 5.2 per cent. Meanwhile, advanced economies are expected to grow 1.5 per cent in 2023, which was raised by 0.2 percentage points from April and 1.4 percent in 2024. What about India? India’s growth is projected to be 6.1 per cent this year, which is up by 0.2 percentage points since the previous forecast in April. The report attributed this growth to “momentum from stronger-than-expected growth in the fourth quarter of 2022 as a result of stronger domestic investment.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IMF raises 2023 global economic growth forecast to 3 per cent; India remains bright spot

<p>Ukraine claimed on Monday (July 24) that its military has recaptured more than 16 square kilometres (six square miles) territory from Russian forces in the south and east of the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"During the week... the liberated area (in the south) increased by 12.6 square kilometres," said Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister Ganna Malyar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Malyar was speaking in televised remarks. She added that Ukrainian troops had wrested another four square kilometres in the east.</p>

<p>From last month, Ukraine has begun its highly anticipated counteroffensive against Russian troops.</p>

<p>In her televised remarks on Monday, Malyar also said that Russian forces carried out "assault" in the Kupyansk area in eastern Kharkiv region, &nbsp;"aiming to push our units beyond the Oskil river".</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russian strike ‘severely damages’ historic Odesa cathedral, leaves one dead</strong></p>

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<p>Russia attacked Ukraine in February last year. After sustained initial gains, Russian forces had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian attacks.</p>

<p>The western alliance led by the United States has poured in billions of dollars as humanitarian as well as military help for Ukraine. Weapons have also been provided to Ukraine. It is widely held that Ukraine is in a slightly superior position and that a full scale counteroffensive would lead to Russian forces being pushed back.</p>

<p>However, the counteroffensive has not, at least till now, been able to yield spectacular results for Ukraine as it was popularly expected.</p>

<h2><strong>50% Ukraine territory re-captured: Blinken</strong></h2>

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken claimed on Sunday (July 23) that Ukraine has recaptured 50 per cent of the territory lost to Russians.</p>

<p>"It's already taken back about 50% of what was initially seized," Blinken said in an interview with CNN.</p>

<p>"These are still relatively early days of the counteroffensive. It is tough," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian drones hit Moscow buildings&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Russian officials said on Monday that Ukrainian drones hit two buildings in Moscow. The officials said that Russia neutralised the drones and no casualties were reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the drones crashed close to the defence ministry in the centre of the Russian capital, while the other hit an office building in southern Moscow. &nbsp;AFP said its reporters saw a two-storey building with damaged roof.</p>

<p>The attacks came a day after Ukraine vowed to "retaliate" for a Russian missile attack on the port of Odesa.</p>

<p>Russian defence ministry dubbed the drone attack a "terrorist act".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Two Ukrainian drones were suppressed and crashed. There are no casualties," it said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Sergei Sobyanin, Mayor of Moscow, the drone strikes took place around 4 am local time (0100 GMT).</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drone-strikes-hit-two-buildings-in-moscow-russia-calls-it-a-terrorist-act-618735">Drone strikes hit two buildings in Moscow, Russia calls it a 'terrorist act'</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, a Moscow-installed governor in Crimea said Russia shot down 11 Ukrainian drones.</p>

<p>Sergei Aksyonov, the governor, said an ammunition depot was "hit" and a house was "damaged". He did not provide more details. Aksyonov said villages near the depot were being evacuated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014. Ukraine has been targeting the peninsula throughout Moscow's offensive. But Crimea has come under more intense attacks in recent weeks. Ukraine has repeatedly maintained that it plans to take back Crimea.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><b><i>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></b></p>

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Ukraine claimed on Monday (July 24) that its military has recaptured more than 16 square kilometres (six square miles) territory from Russian forces in the south and east of the country.

Ukraine claimed on Monday (July 24) that its military has recaptured more than 16 square kilometres (six square miles) territory from Russian forces in the south and east of the country. "During the week... the liberated area (in the south) increased by 12.6 square kilometres," said Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister Ganna Malyar. Malyar was speaking in televised remarks. She added that Ukrainian troops had wrested another four square kilometres in the east. From last month, Ukraine has begun its highly anticipated counteroffensive against Russian troops. In her televised remarks on Monday, Malyar also said that Russian forces carried out "assault" in the Kupyansk area in eastern Kharkiv region, "aiming to push our units beyond the Oskil river". Watch | Russian strike ‘severely damages’ historic Odesa cathedral, leaves one dead × Russia attacked Ukraine in February last year. After sustained initial gains, Russian forces had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian attacks. The western alliance led by the United States has poured in billions of dollars as humanitarian as well as military help for Ukraine. Weapons have also been provided to Ukraine. It is widely held that Ukraine is in a slightly superior position and that a full scale counteroffensive would lead to Russian forces being pushed back. However, the counteroffensive has not, at least till now, been able to yield spectacular results for Ukraine as it was popularly expected. 50% Ukraine territory re-captured: Blinken US Secretary of State Antony Blinken claimed on Sunday (July 23) that Ukraine has recaptured 50 per cent of the territory lost to Russians. "It's already taken back about 50% of what was initially seized," Blinken said in an interview with CNN. "These are still relatively early days of the counteroffensive. It is tough," he said. Ukrainian drones hit Moscow buildings Russian officials said on Monday that Ukrainian drones hit two buildings in Moscow. The officials said that Russia neutralised the drones and no casualties were reported. One of the drones crashed close to the defence ministry in the centre of the Russian capital, while the other hit an office building in southern Moscow. AFP said its reporters saw a two-storey building with damaged roof. The attacks came a day after Ukraine vowed to "retaliate" for a Russian missile attack on the port of Odesa. Russian defence ministry dubbed the drone attack a "terrorist act". "Two Ukrainian drones were suppressed and crashed. There are no casualties," it said. According to Sergei Sobyanin, Mayor of Moscow, the drone strikes took place around 4 am local time (0100 GMT). Also Read | Drone strikes hit two buildings in Moscow, Russia calls it a 'terrorist act' Meanwhile, a Moscow-installed governor in Crimea said Russia shot down 11 Ukrainian drones. Sergei Aksyonov, the governor, said an ammunition depot was "hit" and a house was "damaged". He did not provide more details. Aksyonov said villages near the depot were being evacuated. Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014. Ukraine has been targeting the peninsula throughout Moscow's offensive. But Crimea has come under more intense attacks in recent weeks. Ukraine has repeatedly maintained that it plans to take back Crimea. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine re-captured 16 sq km of territory from Russia last week, claims deputy defence minister

<p>The ongoing escalation between Russia and Ukraine appears to have intensified. Moscow Mayor&nbsp;Sergei Sobyanin in the early hours of Monday (July 24) claimed that "drone strikes" hit two&nbsp;"non-residential buildings" in the Russian capital at night.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today around 4 am (0100 GMT), drone strikes on two non-residential buildings were reported. There is no serious destruction or casualties."&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Russian news agency TASS, one of the drones fell in Komsomolsky Prospekt, close to Russia's defence ministry while another&nbsp;hit a business centre on Likhacheva Street, near one of the main ring roads.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The defence ministry released a statement in the aftermath and said it had "suppressed" the two Ukrainian drones, adding that it was a "terrorist act" on the Russian capital by Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A Kyiv regime attempt to carry out a terrorist act using two drones on objects on the territory of the city of Moscow was stopped," Russia's defence ministry said. "Two Ukrainian drones were suppressed and crashed. There are no casualties."</p>

<p>A video of the business centre was posted by RIA Novosti which showed visible damage to the top of the multi-storey building. As a precautionary measure, the authorities sealed the road around it.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-budget-drones-in-ukraine-are-redefining-warfare-616102"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Budget drones in Ukraine are redefining warfare&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Previous instances of drone attacks&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>This is not the first instance when Russia has accused Ukraine of targetting the capital city using drones. In May, Kremlin claimed it was&nbsp;attacked by Ukrainian drones&nbsp;which it deemed&nbsp;was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the time, Kremlin described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and an "assassination attempt on the president of Russia".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Tonight, the Kyiv regime attempted a drone strike on the Kremlin residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Two drones were aimed at the Kremlin," the press service said in a statement.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-alleged-ukrainian-drones-targeted-luxury-homes-of-putins-ex-wife-and-daughter-600180"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Did Ukrainian drones allegedly target luxury homes of Putin's ex-wife and daughters?</strong></a></p>

<p>"We regard these actions as a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the life of the president of the Russian Federation, carried out on the eve of Victory Day, the May 9 parade," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similarly, earlier this month, Moscow claimed that it shot down&nbsp;five Ukrainian drones that disrupted the functioning at the Vnukovo international airport.</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The ongoing escalation between Russia and Ukraine appears to have intensified. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin in the early hours of Monday (July 24) claimed that "drone strikes" hit two "non-residential buildings" in the Russian capital at night.

The ongoing escalation between Russia and Ukraine appears to have intensified. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin in the early hours of Monday (July 24) claimed that "drone strikes" hit two "non-residential buildings" in the Russian capital at night. "Today around 4 am (0100 GMT), drone strikes on two non-residential buildings were reported. There is no serious destruction or casualties." According to Russian news agency TASS, one of the drones fell in Komsomolsky Prospekt, close to Russia's defence ministry while another hit a business centre on Likhacheva Street, near one of the main ring roads. The defence ministry released a statement in the aftermath and said it had "suppressed" the two Ukrainian drones, adding that it was a "terrorist act" on the Russian capital by Kyiv. "A Kyiv regime attempt to carry out a terrorist act using two drones on objects on the territory of the city of Moscow was stopped," Russia's defence ministry said. "Two Ukrainian drones were suppressed and crashed. There are no casualties." A video of the business centre was posted by RIA Novosti which showed visible damage to the top of the multi-storey building. As a precautionary measure, the authorities sealed the road around it. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Budget drones in Ukraine are redefining warfare × Previous instances of drone attacks This is not the first instance when Russia has accused Ukraine of targetting the capital city using drones. In May, Kremlin claimed it was attacked by Ukrainian drones which it deemed was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life. At the time, Kremlin described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and an "assassination attempt on the president of Russia". "Tonight, the Kyiv regime attempted a drone strike on the Kremlin residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Two drones were aimed at the Kremlin," the press service said in a statement. Also read | Did Ukrainian drones allegedly target luxury homes of Putin's ex-wife and daughters? "We regard these actions as a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the life of the president of the Russian Federation, carried out on the eve of Victory Day, the May 9 parade," it added. Similarly, earlier this month, Moscow claimed that it shot down five Ukrainian drones that disrupted the functioning at the Vnukovo international airport. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Drone strikes hit two buildings in Moscow, Russia calls it a 'terrorist act'

<p>UNESCO on Sunday released a statement condemning Russia's "brazen" attack on Ukraine's Odesa, which targeted many sites in the port city's World Heritage Centre.</p>

<p>"UNESCO is deeply dismayed and condemns in the strongest terms the brazen attack carried out by the Russian forces, which hit several cultural sites in the city centre of Odesa, home to the World Heritage property 'The Historic Centre of Odesa'", the Paris-based body said in a statement.</p>

<p>The Russian strike, which is also the latest attack on the Black Sea city and one of Ukraine's most important ports after Moscow pulled out of a grain deal that allowed Kyiv to export its grain, claimed the lives of at least two people.</p>

<p>UNESCO chief Audrey Azoulay said the attack marked "an escalation of violence against (the) cultural heritage of Ukraine".</p>

<p>The strike damaged the Transfiguration Cathedral, originally built in 1794 under imperial Russian rule, demolished under Soviet leader Stalin in 1936 and rebuilt in the 1990s following the Soviet Union collapse.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-meets-lukashenko-first-time-since-wagner-mutiny-618606">Putin meets Lukashenko for first time since Wagner mutiny</a></p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vows retaliation</strong></h2>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (July 23) vowed "retaliation" against Russia after the historic port of Odesa was attacked by Moscow with projectiles, claiming the lives of two people and damaging an Orthodox cathedral. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"Missiles against peaceful cities, against residential buildings, a cathedral. There will definitely be retaliation against Russian terrorists for Odesa. They will feel this retaliation," Zelensky said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine released a statement saying that 19 missiles were launched by Russia on Odesa overnight.</p>

<p>At least two people lost their lives and 19 others suffered injuries, which included four children as residential and religious infrastructure suffered damage in an attack, informed the governor of the region on Sunday (July 23).</p>

<p>"Odesa: another night attack of the monsters. Unfortunately, we have one civilian killed as a result of the nighttime terrorist attack by Russians on Odesa," said Oleg Kiper on Telegram. Earlier, he had said that there were "18 victims, including four children," in an attack launched by Russia at 3:00 am (0000 GMT).</p>

<p>"Fourteen people were hospitalised in the city's hospitals, three of them were children," he stated. He added that the attack also led to "damage to civilian infrastructure, residential buildings and a religious institution".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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UNESCO on Sunday released a statement condemning Russia's "brazen" attack on Ukraine's Odesa, which targeted many sites in the port city's World Heritage Centre.

UNESCO on Sunday released a statement condemning Russia's "brazen" attack on Ukraine's Odesa, which targeted many sites in the port city's World Heritage Centre. "UNESCO is deeply dismayed and condemns in the strongest terms the brazen attack carried out by the Russian forces, which hit several cultural sites in the city centre of Odesa, home to the World Heritage property 'The Historic Centre of Odesa'", the Paris-based body said in a statement. The Russian strike, which is also the latest attack on the Black Sea city and one of Ukraine's most important ports after Moscow pulled out of a grain deal that allowed Kyiv to export its grain, claimed the lives of at least two people. UNESCO chief Audrey Azoulay said the attack marked "an escalation of violence against (the) cultural heritage of Ukraine". The strike damaged the Transfiguration Cathedral, originally built in 1794 under imperial Russian rule, demolished under Soviet leader Stalin in 1936 and rebuilt in the 1990s following the Soviet Union collapse. Also read: Putin meets Lukashenko for first time since Wagner mutiny Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vows retaliation Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (July 23) vowed "retaliation" against Russia after the historic port of Odesa was attacked by Moscow with projectiles, claiming the lives of two people and damaging an Orthodox cathedral. "Missiles against peaceful cities, against residential buildings, a cathedral. There will definitely be retaliation against Russian terrorists for Odesa. They will feel this retaliation," Zelensky said. Ukraine released a statement saying that 19 missiles were launched by Russia on Odesa overnight. At least two people lost their lives and 19 others suffered injuries, which included four children as residential and religious infrastructure suffered damage in an attack, informed the governor of the region on Sunday (July 23). "Odesa: another night attack of the monsters. Unfortunately, we have one civilian killed as a result of the nighttime terrorist attack by Russians on Odesa," said Oleg Kiper on Telegram. Earlier, he had said that there were "18 victims, including four children," in an attack launched by Russia at 3:00 am (0000 GMT). "Fourteen people were hospitalised in the city's hospitals, three of them were children," he stated. He added that the attack also led to "damage to civilian infrastructure, residential buildings and a religious institution". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UNESCO condemns Russia's 'brazen' strike on Odesa

In pics | Russia's 'brazen' attack on Transfiguration Cathedral in Ukraine's Odesa

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin for the first time met and held talks with his closest ally, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko&nbsp;since the latter played a major role in brokering a deal which led to the end of mutiny by Wagner fighters in Moscow last month.</p>

<p>On Sunday, a video posted by Lukashenko's press service showed that the two global leaders arrived together at Konstantinovsky palace in Saint Petersburg ahead of scheduled talks.</p>

<p>Putin said that his talks with Lukashenko will continue for two days. "I changed some of my plans," said Putin while meeting Lukashenko at Konstantinovsky Palace. "We will spend one and a half, two days (for talks)," Putin was quoted by the TASS news agency as saying.</p>

<p>During the meeting, Putin informed Lukashenko that an ongoing Ukrainian counteroffensive to push back forces of Russia from Ukraine has "failed", as per the Russian news agencies.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-warns-poland-will-act-to-agression-against-belarus-618183">Russian President Vladimir Putin warns Poland: ‘Will act to aggression against Belarus’</a></p>

<p>"There is no counteroffensive," said Lukashenko, according to the TASS news agency, as Putin interrupted him by saying, "There is one, but it has failed.”</p>

<p>Putin further stated that he will discuss the issue of security in Eastern Europe with Lukashenko in their first face-to-face talks. "We will of course talk about security in our region," Putin said in televised remarks.</p>

<h2><strong>Wagner mercenaries staying in central Belarus:&nbsp;Lukashenko</strong></h2>

<p>Lukashenko stated that the Russian Wagner mercenaries are being kept in central Belarus and the situation with the notorious fighters present on its territory is being "controlled" by Minsk.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Why is the Crimea Bridge important for Putin?</strong></p>

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<p>"They are asking to go West, ask me for permission... to go on a trip to Warsaw, to Rzeszow," said Lukashenko while speaking to Putin. "But of course, I am keeping them in central Belarus, like we agreed. We are controlling what is happening (with Wagner)," he stated, adding: "They are in a bad mood."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin,&nbsp;Lukashenko greet crowd together</strong></h2>

<p>Putin and Lukashenko greeted&nbsp;a crowd of people in Kronstadt town on Kotlin Island in Russia together, marking&nbsp;a rare walkabout. A video of&nbsp;Putin and Lukashenko posing together for photographs with people, as&nbsp;bodyguards stood nearby, was posted by Russia's Kommersant newspaper.</p>

<p>Speaking about quarantine rules which Putin has been following since the pandemic, the Russian leader&nbsp;replied,&nbsp;"People are more important than quarantine."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin for the first time met and held talks with his closest ally, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko since the latter played a major role in brokering a deal which led to the end of mutiny by Wagner fighters in Moscow last month.

Russian President Vladimir Putin for the first time met and held talks with his closest ally, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko since the latter played a major role in brokering a deal which led to the end of mutiny by Wagner fighters in Moscow last month. On Sunday, a video posted by Lukashenko's press service showed that the two global leaders arrived together at Konstantinovsky palace in Saint Petersburg ahead of scheduled talks. Putin said that his talks with Lukashenko will continue for two days. "I changed some of my plans," said Putin while meeting Lukashenko at Konstantinovsky Palace. "We will spend one and a half, two days (for talks)," Putin was quoted by the TASS news agency as saying. During the meeting, Putin informed Lukashenko that an ongoing Ukrainian counteroffensive to push back forces of Russia from Ukraine has "failed", as per the Russian news agencies. ALSO READ | Russian President Vladimir Putin warns Poland: ‘Will act to aggression against Belarus’ "There is no counteroffensive," said Lukashenko, according to the TASS news agency, as Putin interrupted him by saying, "There is one, but it has failed.” Putin further stated that he will discuss the issue of security in Eastern Europe with Lukashenko in their first face-to-face talks. "We will of course talk about security in our region," Putin said in televised remarks. Wagner mercenaries staying in central Belarus: Lukashenko Lukashenko stated that the Russian Wagner mercenaries are being kept in central Belarus and the situation with the notorious fighters present on its territory is being "controlled" by Minsk. WATCH | Why is the Crimea Bridge important for Putin? "They are asking to go West, ask me for permission... to go on a trip to Warsaw, to Rzeszow," said Lukashenko while speaking to Putin. "But of course, I am keeping them in central Belarus, like we agreed. We are controlling what is happening (with Wagner)," he stated, adding: "They are in a bad mood." Putin, Lukashenko greet crowd together Putin and Lukashenko greeted a crowd of people in Kronstadt town on Kotlin Island in Russia together, marking a rare walkabout. A video of Putin and Lukashenko posing together for photographs with people, as bodyguards stood nearby, was posted by Russia's Kommersant newspaper. Speaking about quarantine rules which Putin has been following since the pandemic, the Russian leader replied, "People are more important than quarantine." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Putin meets Lukashenko for first time since Wagner mutiny

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (July 23) vowed "retaliation" against Russia after the historic port of Odesa was attacked by Moscow with missiles, killing two people and damaging an Orthodox cathedral.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Missiles against peaceful cities, against residential buildings, a cathedral. There will definitely be a retaliation against Russian terrorists for Odesa. They will feel this retaliation,"&nbsp;Zelensky said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine said that 19 missiles were launched by Russia&nbsp;on Odesa overnight.</p>

<p>At least two people lost their&nbsp;lives and&nbsp;19&nbsp;others suffered injuries, which included four children as residential and religious infrastructure suffered damage in an attack, informed the governor of the region on Sunday (July 23).<br />
<br />
"Odesa: another night attack of the monsters. Unfortunately, we have one civilian killed as a result of the nighttime terrorist attack by Russians on Odesa," said Oleg Kiper on Telegram. Earlier, he had said that there were "18 victims, including four children," in an attack launched by Russia at 3:00 am (0000 GMT).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/air-attacks-on-ukraine-russia-possibly-using-ballistic-missiles-says-kyiv-616906">Air attacks on Ukraine: Russia possibly using ballistic missiles, says Kyiv</a></p>

<p>"Fourteen people were hospitalised in the city's hospitals, three of them were children," he stated. He added that the attack also led to "damage to civilian infrastructure, residential buildings and a religious institution".</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine's repeated appeals for more defence systems</strong></h2>

<p>Head of Ukraine's presidential office Andriy Yermak repeated the call of Kyiv for more defence systems and missiles after the attack on Odesa.<br />
<br />
"The enemy must be deprived of the ability to hit civilians and infrastructure. More missile defence systems, as well as ATACMS - this will help Ukraine," he stated on Telegram while speaking about the long-range tactical missiles which Kyiv has been appealing to Washington to supply.<br />
<br />
Since the start of the invasion, Odesa has been bombed multiple times and the city's historic centre was designated as a World Heritage in Danger site by the United Nations Cultural Agency (UNESCO) in January.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia pounds Odesa</strong></h2>

<p>Odeas, along with other Ukrainian food export facilities, has been pounded by Russia almost daily for the past week after Moscow's withdrawal from the United Nations-brokered grain deal, which allowed for the Ukrainian grain's safe shipment.<br />
<br />
On its Telegram messaging app, Ukraine's Air Force said that high-precision Onyx missiles along with sea-to-shore Kalibr cruise missiles have&nbsp;been launched by Russia on Odesa after midnight on Sunday.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia attacks Odesa for the third day</strong></p>

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<p>It was reported by the RBC-Ukraine news agency that the city's largest Orthodox church, which is the Spaso-Preobrazhenskyi Cathedral&nbsp;consecrated in 1809, has suffered severe damages in the attacks.<br />
<br />
In the social media videos, rubble can be seen inside a dark church-like structure which was put on fire and a distressed man can be seen walking and repeating, "The church is no longer."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia says attacks were 'planned, intended'</strong></h2>

<p>Moscow on Sunday said that&nbsp;all the intended targets were hit in&nbsp;Odesa port, claiming those sites were being used for&nbsp;preparing "terrorist acts" against Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"At night the armed forces of the Russian Federation carried out a strike... on facilities where terrorist acts against the Russian Federation using unmanned boats were prepared. All planned targets in the strikes were destroyed,"&nbsp;said the Russian army.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (July 23) vowed "retaliation" against Russia after the historic port of Odesa was attacked by Moscow with missiles, killing two people and damaging an Orthodox cathedral.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (July 23) vowed "retaliation" against Russia after the historic port of Odesa was attacked by Moscow with missiles, killing two people and damaging an Orthodox cathedral. "Missiles against peaceful cities, against residential buildings, a cathedral. There will definitely be a retaliation against Russian terrorists for Odesa. They will feel this retaliation," Zelensky said. Ukraine said that 19 missiles were launched by Russia on Odesa overnight. At least two people lost their lives and 19 others suffered injuries, which included four children as residential and religious infrastructure suffered damage in an attack, informed the governor of the region on Sunday (July 23). "Odesa: another night attack of the monsters. Unfortunately, we have one civilian killed as a result of the nighttime terrorist attack by Russians on Odesa," said Oleg Kiper on Telegram. Earlier, he had said that there were "18 victims, including four children," in an attack launched by Russia at 3:00 am (0000 GMT). ALSO READ | Air attacks on Ukraine: Russia possibly using ballistic missiles, says Kyiv "Fourteen people were hospitalised in the city's hospitals, three of them were children," he stated. He added that the attack also led to "damage to civilian infrastructure, residential buildings and a religious institution". Ukraine's repeated appeals for more defence systems Head of Ukraine's presidential office Andriy Yermak repeated the call of Kyiv for more defence systems and missiles after the attack on Odesa. "The enemy must be deprived of the ability to hit civilians and infrastructure. More missile defence systems, as well as ATACMS - this will help Ukraine," he stated on Telegram while speaking about the long-range tactical missiles which Kyiv has been appealing to Washington to supply. Since the start of the invasion, Odesa has been bombed multiple times and the city's historic centre was designated as a World Heritage in Danger site by the United Nations Cultural Agency (UNESCO) in January. Russia pounds Odesa Odeas, along with other Ukrainian food export facilities, has been pounded by Russia almost daily for the past week after Moscow's withdrawal from the United Nations-brokered grain deal, which allowed for the Ukrainian grain's safe shipment. On its Telegram messaging app, Ukraine's Air Force said that high-precision Onyx missiles along with sea-to-shore Kalibr cruise missiles have been launched by Russia on Odesa after midnight on Sunday. WATCH | Russia attacks Odesa for the third day It was reported by the RBC-Ukraine news agency that the city's largest Orthodox church, which is the Spaso-Preobrazhenskyi Cathedral consecrated in 1809, has suffered severe damages in the attacks. In the social media videos, rubble can be seen inside a dark church-like structure which was put on fire and a distressed man can be seen walking and repeating, "The church is no longer." Russia says attacks were 'planned, intended' Moscow on Sunday said that all the intended targets were hit in Odesa port, claiming those sites were being used for preparing "terrorist acts" against Russia. "At night the armed forces of the Russian Federation carried out a strike... on facilities where terrorist acts against the Russian Federation using unmanned boats were prepared. All planned targets in the strikes were destroyed," said the Russian army. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Zelensky vows to 'retaliate' after overnight strikes on Odesa by Russia

<p>A Russian journalist was killed and three were injured in Ukraine, on Saturday (July 22), said the country’s defence ministry in what it said was a Ukrainian attack using <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-are-cluster-bombs-which-us-is-set-to-provide-to-ukraine-why-it-is-facing-opposition-613067">cluster munitions</a> and has since prompted outrage in Moscow. Meanwhile, the Russian foreign ministry has blamed the West and Kyiv for what it described as a “heinous, premeditated crime” and vowed a “response”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What do we know about the Russian journalist’s death?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the Russian military, a war reporter for the state news agency RIA identified as Rostislav Zhuravlev was killed&nbsp;after coming under fire in Ukraine’s southeastern Zaporizhzhia region. Meanwhile, three of his colleagues were injured and were later evacuated from the battlefield.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-attempted-drone-attack-on-crimea-alleges-moscow-backed-authorities-618395">Ammunition depot in Crimea 'destroyed' in Ukraine drone attack, cluster munition fired in Russian village</a></strong></p>

<p>The war reporter was killed near the frontline village of Pytikhatki, said the Russian news agency. “As a result of a strike by the Ukrainian army using cluster munitions, four journalists were wounded in various levels of severity,” said the Russian defence ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “During an evacuation, the RIA Novosti journalist Rostislav Zhuravlev died from his wounds that resulted from the cluster munitions exploding.” Furthermore, the three journalists who got injured were said to be stable in hospital after the attack.</p>

<p>The Russian ministry said that the journalists attacked were in the midst of “gathering material for a report on the bombing by the Kyiv regime militants of settlements in the Zaporizhzhia region using cluster munitions banned in many countries around the world.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Moscow fumes over attack on Russian journalists</strong></h2>

<p>Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova called the attack “criminal terror” by Ukraine and claimed that the attack appeared deliberate but did not provide any evidence for her claims.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-nations-rights-groups-and-un-oppose-us-move-to-send-cluster-bombs-to-ukraine-613459">Explained | Several nations, rights groups and UN oppose US move to send cluster bombs to Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>She added, “Those responsible for the brutal reprisal against a Russian journalist will inevitably suffer well-deserved punishment. The entire measure of responsibility will be shared by those who supplied cluster munitions to their Kyiv protégés.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Deputy Speaker of the Russian upper house of parliament, Konstantin Kosachyov called the use of cluster munitions “inhuman” and blamed both the United States and Ukraine. Notably, human rights groups and the United Nations have reported that Russia has been using cluster munitions since the beginning of what it calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>German reporter wounded by Russian cluster munitions</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>In a separate incident which also took place on Saturday, German state-owned international broadcaster, Deutsche Welle (DW) reported that their cameraman was injured by shrapnel in an apparent cluster bomb attack by Russia which targeted the Ukrainian army training ground in Donbas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The alleged attack took place at 12:10 pm (local time) when the DW team came under Russian artillery fire while filming at a Ukrainian army training ground near Druzhkivka, said the German broadcaster, in a statement.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-threatens-tit-for-tat-use-of-cluster-munitions-against-ukraine-616228">Putin threatens 'tit-for-tat' use of cluster munitions against Ukraine</a></strong><br />
<br />
Another DW correspondent Mathias Bolinger and a security escort, who was not named, were reported “unharmed.” The DW said that Shylko is being treated in a Ukrainian hospital and his condition was described as “stable so far”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We were filming the Ukrainian army during target practice when suddenly we heard several explosions. We lay down, more explosions followed, we saw people were wounded. Later, the Ukrainian army confirmed that we had been fired at with cluster munitions,” said Bolinger.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

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A Russian journalist was killed and three were injured in Ukraine, on Saturday (July 22), said the country’s defence ministry in what it said was a Ukrainian attack using cluster munitions and has since prompted outrage in Moscow.

A Russian journalist was killed and three were injured in Ukraine, on Saturday (July 22), said the country’s defence ministry in what it said was a Ukrainian attack using cluster munitions and has since prompted outrage in Moscow. Meanwhile, the Russian foreign ministry has blamed the West and Kyiv for what it described as a “heinous, premeditated crime” and vowed a “response”. What do we know about the Russian journalist’s death? According to the Russian military, a war reporter for the state news agency RIA identified as Rostislav Zhuravlev was killed after coming under fire in Ukraine’s southeastern Zaporizhzhia region. Meanwhile, three of his colleagues were injured and were later evacuated from the battlefield. ALSO READ | Ammunition depot in Crimea 'destroyed' in Ukraine drone attack, cluster munition fired in Russian village The war reporter was killed near the frontline village of Pytikhatki, said the Russian news agency. “As a result of a strike by the Ukrainian army using cluster munitions, four journalists were wounded in various levels of severity,” said the Russian defence ministry. It added, “During an evacuation, the RIA Novosti journalist Rostislav Zhuravlev died from his wounds that resulted from the cluster munitions exploding.” Furthermore, the three journalists who got injured were said to be stable in hospital after the attack. The Russian ministry said that the journalists attacked were in the midst of “gathering material for a report on the bombing by the Kyiv regime militants of settlements in the Zaporizhzhia region using cluster munitions banned in many countries around the world.” Moscow fumes over attack on Russian journalists Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova called the attack “criminal terror” by Ukraine and claimed that the attack appeared deliberate but did not provide any evidence for her claims. ALSO READ | Explained | Several nations, rights groups and UN oppose US move to send cluster bombs to Ukraine She added, “Those responsible for the brutal reprisal against a Russian journalist will inevitably suffer well-deserved punishment. The entire measure of responsibility will be shared by those who supplied cluster munitions to their Kyiv protégés.” Meanwhile, Deputy Speaker of the Russian upper house of parliament, Konstantin Kosachyov called the use of cluster munitions “inhuman” and blamed both the United States and Ukraine. Notably, human rights groups and the United Nations have reported that Russia has been using cluster munitions since the beginning of what it calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine. German reporter wounded by Russian cluster munitions In a separate incident which also took place on Saturday, German state-owned international broadcaster, Deutsche Welle (DW) reported that their cameraman was injured by shrapnel in an apparent cluster bomb attack by Russia which targeted the Ukrainian army training ground in Donbas. The alleged attack took place at 12:10 pm (local time) when the DW team came under Russian artillery fire while filming at a Ukrainian army training ground near Druzhkivka, said the German broadcaster, in a statement. ALSO READ | Putin threatens 'tit-for-tat' use of cluster munitions against Ukraine Another DW correspondent Mathias Bolinger and a security escort, who was not named, were reported “unharmed.” The DW said that Shylko is being treated in a Ukrainian hospital and his condition was described as “stable so far”. “We were filming the Ukrainian army during target practice when suddenly we heard several explosions. We lay down, more explosions followed, we saw people were wounded. Later, the Ukrainian army confirmed that we had been fired at with cluster munitions,” said Bolinger. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Moscow blames the West, Kyiv for Russian journalist’s death in Ukraine, vows ‘response’

In pics | ‘Gateway to underworld’: World’s biggest permafrost crater thaws due to climate change

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (July 21) said that the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target.</p>

<p>On Monday, two civilians were killed and a part of the road bridge was out of service after explosions took place on the Crimea bridge. The bridge had recently got back into full operation after it was damaged severely in a similar attack in October.<br />
<br />
The attack that took place on Monday was welcomed by Ukraine, however, their officials did not claim any direct responsibility, while Moscow blamed Kyiv. Russia had annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 and Kyiv wishes&nbsp;to reclaim it as it continues to fight back against the 17-month-long full-scale invasion by&nbsp;Russia.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-to-spread-poland-to-move-soldiers-to-east-due-to-wagner-risks-618116">Will Ukraine war expand to other regions? Poland moving troops over Wagner risk from Belarus</a></p>

<p>The rail and road bridge, which was constructed by Russia and came into service in 2018 was "not just a logistical road", stated Zelensky, while speaking at the Aspen Security Conference in the United States through a video link.<br />
<br />
"This is the route used to feed the war with ammunition and this is being done on a daily basis. And it militarises the Crimean peninsula," said Zelensky, in his address as heard through an interpreter.<br />
<br />
"For us, this is understandably an enemy facility built outside international laws and all applicable norms. So, understandably, this is a target for us. And a target that is bringing war, not peace, has to be neutralised,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>'Crimea bridge attack not linked to grain export deal'</strong></h2>

<p>Replying to questions raised through a moderator, Zelensky denied any link between the withdrawal of Russia from a UN-backed deal to export grain from Ukrainian ports and the attack on the Crimea bridge.<br />
<br />
He said that the operation of the grain corridor was hindered by Russia from the very start.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine forces struggle to counter Russia's 'Oink' missile</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-forces-struggle-to-counter-russias-oink-missile-618088/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p><br />
"And later, they took this situation around the Crimea bridge, using it just as an example. If not the Crimea bridge, they would have found another example, another reason,” he said.<br />
<br />
The long-anticipated counteroffensive of the Ukrainian military, which was launched last month, took time to prepare as several defensive lines were set up by Russian occupying forces and Ukrainian territory was extensively mined, said Zelensky.<br />
<br />
President Zelensky further reiterated his previous assessment about the counteroffensive moving more slowly as he would want. "Ukraine is not backtracking. It is progressively liberating its territories, which is very important. Still, I believe we are approaching a moment when relevant actions can gain pace. I do understand it is better to see that victory comes sooner. This is what we want too,” he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (July 21) said that the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (July 21) said that the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target. On Monday, two civilians were killed and a part of the road bridge was out of service after explosions took place on the Crimea bridge. The bridge had recently got back into full operation after it was damaged severely in a similar attack in October. The attack that took place on Monday was welcomed by Ukraine, however, their officials did not claim any direct responsibility, while Moscow blamed Kyiv. Russia had annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 and Kyiv wishes to reclaim it as it continues to fight back against the 17-month-long full-scale invasion by Russia. ALSO READ | Will Ukraine war expand to other regions? Poland moving troops over Wagner risk from Belarus The rail and road bridge, which was constructed by Russia and came into service in 2018 was "not just a logistical road", stated Zelensky, while speaking at the Aspen Security Conference in the United States through a video link. "This is the route used to feed the war with ammunition and this is being done on a daily basis. And it militarises the Crimean peninsula," said Zelensky, in his address as heard through an interpreter. "For us, this is understandably an enemy facility built outside international laws and all applicable norms. So, understandably, this is a target for us. And a target that is bringing war, not peace, has to be neutralised,” he added. 'Crimea bridge attack not linked to grain export deal' Replying to questions raised through a moderator, Zelensky denied any link between the withdrawal of Russia from a UN-backed deal to export grain from Ukrainian ports and the attack on the Crimea bridge. He said that the operation of the grain corridor was hindered by Russia from the very start. WATCH | Ukraine forces struggle to counter Russia's 'Oink' missile "And later, they took this situation around the Crimea bridge, using it just as an example. If not the Crimea bridge, they would have found another example, another reason,” he said. The long-anticipated counteroffensive of the Ukrainian military, which was launched last month, took time to prepare as several defensive lines were set up by Russian occupying forces and Ukrainian territory was extensively mined, said Zelensky. President Zelensky further reiterated his previous assessment about the counteroffensive moving more slowly as he would want. "Ukraine is not backtracking. It is progressively liberating its territories, which is very important. Still, I believe we are approaching a moment when relevant actions can gain pace. I do understand it is better to see that victory comes sooner. This is what we want too,” he said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Zelensky calls Crimea bridge 'legitimate military target', says it feeds ammunition for war

<p>At least four people were killed and several others injured on Saturday (July 22) after a hot water pipe burst at a shopping mall in western Moscow, the city's mayor said.</p>

<p>Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said some of those injured had suffered burns, and that emergency services were working on the scene.</p>

<p>Video footage showed flooding throughout the building and steam flowing out of a doorway.</p>

<p>The mall, known as Vremena Goda (The Seasons), opened in 2007 and houses over 150 stores.</p>

<p>"We are providing medical assistance to all the victims," Sobyanin said.</p>


At least four people were killed and several others injured on Saturday (July 22) after a hot water pipe burst at a shopping mall in western Moscow, the city's mayor said.

At least four people were killed and several others injured on Saturday (July 22) after a hot water pipe burst at a shopping mall in western Moscow, the city's mayor said. Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said some of those injured had suffered burns, and that emergency services were working on the scene. Video footage showed flooding throughout the building and steam flowing out of a doorway. The mall, known as Vremena Goda (The Seasons), opened in 2007 and houses over 150 stores. "We are providing medical assistance to all the victims," Sobyanin said.

Russia: At least four killed at Moscow mall after hot water pipe bursts

<p>The Batagaika crater, the world’s biggest permafrost crater, situated in Russia’s Far East is thawing, reported Reuters on Friday (July 21), which has led scientists to raise an alarm as this “mega slump” already threatens cities and towns across northern and northeastern Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is a permafrost crater?</strong></h2>

<p>According to NASA, permafrost is any ground that remains completely frozen at zero degrees Celsius for at least two years straight. These permanently frozen grounds are made with a combination of soil, rocks and sand held together by ice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Permafrosts are most common in regions near the North and South poles and cover large parts of the Earth, according to the American space agency. Notably, almost a quarter of the land area in the Northern Hemisphere has permafrost underneath but while the ground is frozen the regions with permafrost are not always covered in snow.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Gateway to the underworld’</strong></h2>

<p>Locals near the Batagaika crater call the one-kilometre-long massive gash in the Siberian landscape the “gateway to the underworld.” The crater which first began to appear in the 1960s was a result of deforestation in the area which led to the loss of ground ice that in turn caused the Earth to erode and the land to sink.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We locals call it ‘the cave-in’,” local resident and crater explorer Erel Struchkov told Reuters. “It developed in the 1970s, first as a ravine. Then by thawing in the heat of sunny days, it started to expand,” he added.</p>

<p>The locals have also noted the crater’s rapid growth. “(Two years ago the edge) was about 20-30 metres away from this path. And now, apparently, it is much closer,” said Struchkov, according to Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Scientists raise alarm over ‘mega-slump’</strong></h2>

<p>What locals in Russia’s Sakha Republic call the “gateway to the underworld” scientists called “a mega-slump,” is growing. A report by Reuters citing Russian scientists said that the country is warming at least 2.5 times faster than the rest of the world. This is also melting the long-frozen tundra that covers about 65 per cent of the world’s largest country in terms of land area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nikita Tananayev, lead researcher at the Melnikov Permafrost Institute in Yakutsk, said the slump’s expansion is “a sign of danger.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, this expansion has threatened to affect cities and towns across&nbsp;northern and northeastern Russia&nbsp;by buckling roadways, splitting apart houses, and disrupting pipelines, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, the vast wildfires which have intensified recently have reportedly exacerbated the problem. “In future, with increasing temperatures and with higher anthropogenic pressure, we will see more and more of those mega-slumps forming, until all the permafrost is gone,” Tananayev told Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Thawing permafrost to fuel climate change</strong></h2>

<p>While the exact expansion rate of the Batagaika crater remains unknown, the Russian scientist said the soil under the slump, which is about 100 metres deep in some places, contains an “enormous quantity” of organic carbon. This is releasing greenhouse gases stored in the thawed soil into the atmosphere further fuelling the planet’s warming.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“With an increasing air temperature we can expect (the crater) will be expanding at a higher rate,” Tananayev told Reuters, adding that it will lead to more climate warming in the upcoming years. &nbsp;<br />
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The Batagaika crater, the world’s biggest permafrost crater, situated in Russia’s Far East is thawing, reported Reuters on Friday (July 21), which has led scientists to raise an alarm as this “mega slump” already threatens cities and towns across northern and northeastern Russia.

The Batagaika crater, the world’s biggest permafrost crater, situated in Russia’s Far East is thawing, reported Reuters on Friday (July 21), which has led scientists to raise an alarm as this “mega slump” already threatens cities and towns across northern and northeastern Russia. What is a permafrost crater? According to NASA, permafrost is any ground that remains completely frozen at zero degrees Celsius for at least two years straight. These permanently frozen grounds are made with a combination of soil, rocks and sand held together by ice. Permafrosts are most common in regions near the North and South poles and cover large parts of the Earth, according to the American space agency. Notably, almost a quarter of the land area in the Northern Hemisphere has permafrost underneath but while the ground is frozen the regions with permafrost are not always covered in snow. ‘Gateway to the underworld’ Locals near the Batagaika crater call the one-kilometre-long massive gash in the Siberian landscape the “gateway to the underworld.” The crater which first began to appear in the 1960s was a result of deforestation in the area which led to the loss of ground ice that in turn caused the Earth to erode and the land to sink. “We locals call it ‘the cave-in’,” local resident and crater explorer Erel Struchkov told Reuters. “It developed in the 1970s, first as a ravine. Then by thawing in the heat of sunny days, it started to expand,” he added. The locals have also noted the crater’s rapid growth. “(Two years ago the edge) was about 20-30 metres away from this path. And now, apparently, it is much closer,” said Struchkov, according to Reuters. Scientists raise alarm over ‘mega-slump’ What locals in Russia’s Sakha Republic call the “gateway to the underworld” scientists called “a mega-slump,” is growing. A report by Reuters citing Russian scientists said that the country is warming at least 2.5 times faster than the rest of the world. This is also melting the long-frozen tundra that covers about 65 per cent of the world’s largest country in terms of land area. Nikita Tananayev, lead researcher at the Melnikov Permafrost Institute in Yakutsk, said the slump’s expansion is “a sign of danger.” Recently, this expansion has threatened to affect cities and towns across northern and northeastern Russia by buckling roadways, splitting apart houses, and disrupting pipelines, reported Reuters. Additionally, the vast wildfires which have intensified recently have reportedly exacerbated the problem. “In future, with increasing temperatures and with higher anthropogenic pressure, we will see more and more of those mega-slumps forming, until all the permafrost is gone,” Tananayev told Reuters. Thawing permafrost to fuel climate change While the exact expansion rate of the Batagaika crater remains unknown, the Russian scientist said the soil under the slump, which is about 100 metres deep in some places, contains an “enormous quantity” of organic carbon. This is releasing greenhouse gases stored in the thawed soil into the atmosphere further fuelling the planet’s warming. “With an increasing air temperature we can expect (the crater) will be expanding at a higher rate,” Tananayev told Reuters, adding that it will lead to more climate warming in the upcoming years. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World’s biggest permafrost crater thaws due to climate change, threatens Russian cities

<p>United States Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) has “no reason to doubt” the claim of Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding moving the tactical nuclear weapons' first batch to Belarus, stated senior DIA officials on Friday (July 21).<br />
<br />
Last month, Putin had stated that St Petersburg International Economic Forum said that “the first [Russian] nuclear warheads were delivered to the territory of Belarus,” further adding that they have been moved for “deterrence.”<br />
<br />
According to the Federation of American Scientists, Moscow has around 4,477 deployed and reserved nuclear warheads, which include 1,900 tactical nuclear weapons. It remains unclear how much nuclear arsenal Putin intends to move, reported CNN.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-warns-poland-will-act-to-agression-against-belarus-618183">Russian President Vladimir Putin warns Poland: ‘Will act to aggression against Belarus’</a></p>

<p>According to the report, a few DIA officials told some media persons that analysts have “no reason to doubt” the claims of Putin, and no reason to doubt “that they have had some success” in moving the weapons.</p>

<h2><strong>US to face challenges in tracking weapons</strong></h2>

<p>The officials accepted that the US intelligence community is likely to face difficulty in tracking the weapons, even through satellite imagery.<br />
<br />
Speaking to CNN earlier this month, US and Western officials said that it looks like Belarus has not yet completed the upgradation of necessary storage facilities for housing tactical nuclear weapons. They added that the recent satellite imagery shows no signs of the kind of preparations and security which would be required at a Russian nuclear facility.<br />
<br />
British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, on being asked if he had seen signs of weapons being moved by Russia, told CNN that the UK had “seen signs of this progressing” and noted that Putin “doesn’t always lie”.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas Global Headlines: Russia vows to protect Belarus | South Africa: Will arrest Putin</strong></p>

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<p>In a briefing on July 11, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said, “I will say that we continue to actively monitor reports of the Russia-Belarus arrangement to ensure that Russia maintains control of its weapons in the event of any deployment to Belarus and upholds its obligations under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. We will be paying close attention to any deviation by Russia.”<br />
<br />
Last month, Belarusian President Aleksander Lukashenko said in the face of aggression, “no hesitation” will be shown by him in using the Russian tactical nuclear weapons which have been stationed on Belarusian soil.<br />
<br />
However, senior DIA officials stated that they don't think Lukashenko will have any control over the arsenal. The officials added that the entire control of the arsenal would most likely be with Russia.&nbsp;</p>

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United States Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) has “no reason to doubt” the claim of Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding moving the tactical nuclear weapons' first batch to Belarus, stated senior DIA officials on Friday (July 21).

United States Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) has “no reason to doubt” the claim of Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding moving the tactical nuclear weapons' first batch to Belarus, stated senior DIA officials on Friday (July 21). Last month, Putin had stated that St Petersburg International Economic Forum said that “the first [Russian] nuclear warheads were delivered to the territory of Belarus,” further adding that they have been moved for “deterrence.” According to the Federation of American Scientists, Moscow has around 4,477 deployed and reserved nuclear warheads, which include 1,900 tactical nuclear weapons. It remains unclear how much nuclear arsenal Putin intends to move, reported CNN. ALSO READ | Russian President Vladimir Putin warns Poland: ‘Will act to aggression against Belarus’ According to the report, a few DIA officials told some media persons that analysts have “no reason to doubt” the claims of Putin, and no reason to doubt “that they have had some success” in moving the weapons. US to face challenges in tracking weapons The officials accepted that the US intelligence community is likely to face difficulty in tracking the weapons, even through satellite imagery. Speaking to CNN earlier this month, US and Western officials said that it looks like Belarus has not yet completed the upgradation of necessary storage facilities for housing tactical nuclear weapons. They added that the recent satellite imagery shows no signs of the kind of preparations and security which would be required at a Russian nuclear facility. British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, on being asked if he had seen signs of weapons being moved by Russia, told CNN that the UK had “seen signs of this progressing” and noted that Putin “doesn’t always lie”. WATCH | Gravitas Global Headlines: Russia vows to protect Belarus | South Africa: Will arrest Putin In a briefing on July 11, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said, “I will say that we continue to actively monitor reports of the Russia-Belarus arrangement to ensure that Russia maintains control of its weapons in the event of any deployment to Belarus and upholds its obligations under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. We will be paying close attention to any deviation by Russia.” Last month, Belarusian President Aleksander Lukashenko said in the face of aggression, “no hesitation” will be shown by him in using the Russian tactical nuclear weapons which have been stationed on Belarusian soil. However, senior DIA officials stated that they don't think Lukashenko will have any control over the arsenal. The officials added that the entire control of the arsenal would most likely be with Russia. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US says it has 'no reason to doubt' Putin's claims over nuclear belligerence

<p>Igor Girkin, prominent pro-war Russian nationalist was detained in Moscow on Friday (July 22). Girkin has previously accused Russian President Vladimir Putin and army leaders of not conducting the Ukraine war harshly or effectively enough. He now faces charges of inciting extremism.</p>

<p>The move suggests authorities have wearied of his criticism of what they call Russia's "special military operation", and perhaps that of other loud nationalist voices who had appeared to have an exceptional licence to deride the war effort.</p>

<p>The action against Girkin has come weeks after a short-lived mutiny by another outspoken critic, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Wagner Group chief. Progozhin is still free but now has sharply curtailed his verbal attacks.</p>

<p>Prosecutors from the Federal Security Service (FSB) security service asked Moscow's Meshchansky district court to remand Girkin in custody on a charge with a maximum sentence of five years in prison, state news agencies TASS and RIA Novosti reported.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Ukraine forces struggle to counter Russia's 'Oink' missile</strong></p>

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<p>Girkin, who is a former battlefield commander is also known as Igor Strelkov. He was involved in Russian annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. He then organised pro-Russian militias who have been instrumental in wresting part of eastern Ukraine out of Kyiv's control.</p>

<p>A Dutch court handed Girkin a life sentence in absentia in 2022 for his alleged role in shooting down of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 over eastern Ukraine in 2014, with the loss of 298 passengers and crew.</p>

<p>Girkin was seen standing almost motionless in a glass cage with arms folded, in footage from the court posted by the popular Telegram channel Shot.</p>

<p>He is regarded by many to be untouchable due to his ties with the authorities. But in recent months, he had become more outspoken in recent months.</p>

<p>Asked at the time if he was naive to think he could launch a political movement without the assent of the Kremlin, he said: "I hope you would not call me a naive person."</p>

<h2><strong>Attack on Putin</strong></h2>

<p>In one of his tirades on July 18, one of his most outspoken ones, Girkin made a post and peppered Putin with personal insults and urged&nbsp;him to transfer power "to someone truly capable and responsible". The post was read by over 760,000 people.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-warns-poland-will-act-to-agression-against-belarus-618183">Russian President Vladimir Putin warns Poland: ‘Will act to aggression against Belarus’</a></strong></p>

<p>In a message posted on Girkin's official Telegram account, his wife, Miroslava Reginskaya, said:&nbsp;"Today, at about 11:30 a.m., representatives of the Investigative Committee came to our house. I was not at home. Soon, according to the concierge, they took my husband out by his arms and in an unknown direction."</p>

<p>She further said that friends told her Girkin had been charged with extremism.</p>

<p>"I do not know anything about my husband's whereabouts, he has not contacted me," she said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Igor Girkin, prominent pro-war Russian nationalist was detained in Moscow on Friday (July 22). Girkin has previously accused Russian President Vladimir Putin and army leaders of not conducting the Ukraine war harshly or effectively enough.

Igor Girkin, prominent pro-war Russian nationalist was detained in Moscow on Friday (July 22). Girkin has previously accused Russian President Vladimir Putin and army leaders of not conducting the Ukraine war harshly or effectively enough. He now faces charges of inciting extremism. The move suggests authorities have wearied of his criticism of what they call Russia's "special military operation", and perhaps that of other loud nationalist voices who had appeared to have an exceptional licence to deride the war effort. The action against Girkin has come weeks after a short-lived mutiny by another outspoken critic, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Wagner Group chief. Progozhin is still free but now has sharply curtailed his verbal attacks. Prosecutors from the Federal Security Service (FSB) security service asked Moscow's Meshchansky district court to remand Girkin in custody on a charge with a maximum sentence of five years in prison, state news agencies TASS and RIA Novosti reported. Watch | Ukraine forces struggle to counter Russia's 'Oink' missile × Girkin, who is a former battlefield commander is also known as Igor Strelkov. He was involved in Russian annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. He then organised pro-Russian militias who have been instrumental in wresting part of eastern Ukraine out of Kyiv's control. A Dutch court handed Girkin a life sentence in absentia in 2022 for his alleged role in shooting down of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 over eastern Ukraine in 2014, with the loss of 298 passengers and crew. Girkin was seen standing almost motionless in a glass cage with arms folded, in footage from the court posted by the popular Telegram channel Shot. He is regarded by many to be untouchable due to his ties with the authorities. But in recent months, he had become more outspoken in recent months. Asked at the time if he was naive to think he could launch a political movement without the assent of the Kremlin, he said: "I hope you would not call me a naive person." Attack on Putin In one of his tirades on July 18, one of his most outspoken ones, Girkin made a post and peppered Putin with personal insults and urged him to transfer power "to someone truly capable and responsible". The post was read by over 760,000 people. Also Read | Russian President Vladimir Putin warns Poland: ‘Will act to aggression against Belarus’ In a message posted on Girkin's official Telegram account, his wife, Miroslava Reginskaya, said: "Today, at about 11:30 a.m., representatives of the Investigative Committee came to our house. I was not at home. Soon, according to the concierge, they took my husband out by his arms and in an unknown direction." She further said that friends told her Girkin had been charged with extremism. "I do not know anything about my husband's whereabouts, he has not contacted me," she said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Pro-war nationalist charged with inciting extremism after tirade against Putin

<p>Head of French President Emmanuel Macron's Elysee Palace diplomatic team has said that China was delivering items to Russia which could be used as military equipment by the latter. However, he said that such a supply was not on a massive scale.</p>

<p>Emmanuel Bonne, President Macron's adviser, was asked during Aspen Security Forum if the West had seen any evidence that China had armed Russia for Ukraine war in any way.</p>

<p>"Yes, there are indications that they are doing things we would prefer them not to do," he told the moderator late on Thursday (July 20).</p>

<p>When he was asked whether China was delivering weapons, he said: "Well, kind of military equipment ... as far as we know they are not delivering massively military capacities to Russia but (we need that to be) no delivery."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Ukraine forces struggle to counter Russia's 'Oink' missile</strong></p>

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<p>French officials told CNN that Bonne was referencing both dual-use technologies and non-lethal assistance, such as helmets and body armour.</p>

<p>Reuters reported that there was no immediate comment from the White House or Macron's office.</p>

<p>Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. China has been repeatedly maintaining that it is not sending military equipment to Russia. There was no comment from Chinese embassy in Paris on Bonne's statement.</p>

<p>Bonne reportedly doesn't speak on record with media often by regularly briefs reporters on background. During President Macron's China trip in April, Bonne was part of Macron's diplomatic delegation. He has been Macron's point of contact with top Chinese officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What we need most is Chinese abstention." Bonne said. "We need them to understand that Ukraine is a conflict of global magnitude and that we cannot afford Ukraine to lose for reasons of principle, but also for reasons which are very operational."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-warns-poland-will-act-to-agression-against-belarus-618183">Russian President Vladimir Putin warns Poland: ‘Will act to aggression against Belarus’</a></strong></p>

<p>Bonne was asked what things China shouldn't do. "The delivery of weapons certainly, economic support," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>China-Russia joint exercise</strong></h2>

<p>Naval and air forces of China and Russia kicked off a joint exercise in the Sea of Japan on Thursday (July 20).</p>

<p>The Northern/Interaction-2023 joint exercise marks second time Russia is participating in an annual Chinese exercise. It is also the first time Russia has sent both, naval and air forces to participate in the exercise.</p>

<p>The theme of the joint exercise this time is "safeguarding the security of strategic maritime routes".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The joint exercise main includes naval and air escort, deterrence and expulsion, and anchorage defense drills to further enhance the coordination capabilities of both militaries to jointly maintain regional peace and stability.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Head of French President Emmanuel Macron's Elysee Palace diplomatic team has said that China was delivering items to Russia which could be used as military equipment by the latter.

Head of French President Emmanuel Macron's Elysee Palace diplomatic team has said that China was delivering items to Russia which could be used as military equipment by the latter. However, he said that such a supply was not on a massive scale. Emmanuel Bonne, President Macron's adviser, was asked during Aspen Security Forum if the West had seen any evidence that China had armed Russia for Ukraine war in any way. "Yes, there are indications that they are doing things we would prefer them not to do," he told the moderator late on Thursday (July 20). When he was asked whether China was delivering weapons, he said: "Well, kind of military equipment ... as far as we know they are not delivering massively military capacities to Russia but (we need that to be) no delivery." Watch | Ukraine forces struggle to counter Russia's 'Oink' missile × French officials told CNN that Bonne was referencing both dual-use technologies and non-lethal assistance, such as helmets and body armour. Reuters reported that there was no immediate comment from the White House or Macron's office. Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. China has been repeatedly maintaining that it is not sending military equipment to Russia. There was no comment from Chinese embassy in Paris on Bonne's statement. Bonne reportedly doesn't speak on record with media often by regularly briefs reporters on background. During President Macron's China trip in April, Bonne was part of Macron's diplomatic delegation. He has been Macron's point of contact with top Chinese officials. "What we need most is Chinese abstention." Bonne said. "We need them to understand that Ukraine is a conflict of global magnitude and that we cannot afford Ukraine to lose for reasons of principle, but also for reasons which are very operational." Also Read | Russian President Vladimir Putin warns Poland: ‘Will act to aggression against Belarus’ Bonne was asked what things China shouldn't do. "The delivery of weapons certainly, economic support," he said. China-Russia joint exercise Naval and air forces of China and Russia kicked off a joint exercise in the Sea of Japan on Thursday (July 20). The Northern/Interaction-2023 joint exercise marks second time Russia is participating in an annual Chinese exercise. It is also the first time Russia has sent both, naval and air forces to participate in the exercise. The theme of the joint exercise this time is "safeguarding the security of strategic maritime routes". The joint exercise main includes naval and air escort, deterrence and expulsion, and anchorage defense drills to further enhance the coordination capabilities of both militaries to jointly maintain regional peace and stability. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

China is providing equipment to Russia it shouldn't: French diplomat

<p>Russian prosecutors on Thursday (July 20) requested a jail sentence of 20 years for Putin-critic Alexei Navalny. He is already in jail. Navalny is the most prominent critic of the Russian government and has denounced Russia's "senseless war" in his last statement to the court.</p>

<p>The case is being heard in court when Russia is more than a year into its full-scale offensive against Ukraine. After the invasion began, there was an unprecedented crackdown on the Kremlin's critics, many of whom are now in jail.</p>

<p>Navalny has been accused of links with extremist elements. It is expected that a verdict over the case would come on August 4.</p>

<p>As the prosecutors' announcement came, the European Union added the chief of the Russian prison camp holding Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny to its sanctions list.</p>

<p><strong>Gravitas: Why are Wagner mercenaries training near Poland?</strong></p>

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<p>Navalny's trial has been held behind closed doors at the maximum security prison where he is jailed. The IK-6 penal colony, where Navalny is being held, is some 250 kilometres east of Russian capital Moscow.</p>

<p>Navalny (47), who has in past mobilised massive anti-Kremlin protests is now serving a nine-year prison sentence on embezzlement charges. His supporters see this as a punishment for Navalny's political work.</p>

<p>He was arrested in 2021 on his arrival in Moscow from Germany, where he had been recovering from a poisoning attack that he blamed on the Kremlin.</p>

<h2><strong>Navalny's health problems</strong></h2>

<p>Navalny has complained of health problems. He has also experienced major weight loss since being jailed in a strict regime penal colony.<br />
<br />
Prosecutors on Thursday asked for Navalny to serve his additional sentence in an even more restrictive, special regime prison.</p>

<p>Navalny faces charges of financing extremist activity, publicly inciting extremist activities and "rehabilitating the Nazi ideology," among other offences.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His team has said that while Navalny has been the target of multiple lawsuits, the present case is first formal politocal case against him.</p>

<p>Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Moscow has cracked down on freedoms in Russia.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-starts-firing-cluster-munitions-against-russian-forces-amid-criticism-617861">Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism</a></strong></p>

<p>Russia is "floundering in a pool of either mud or blood, with broken bones, with a poor and robbed population, and around it lie tens of thousands of people killed in the most stupid and senseless war of the 21st century," Navalny said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media reports say that thousands of Russians have been detained because they held protests against the Ukraine invasion. Most high-profile activists still in Russia like Vladimir Kara-Murza and Ilya Yashin are behind bars.</p>

<p>Navalny too has made his voice against Ukraine offensive heard from behind the bars. He communicates with the outside world through his legal team.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian prosecutors on Thursday (July 20) requested a jail sentence of 20 years for Putin-critic Alexei Navalny. He is already in jail. Navalny is the most prominent critic of the Russian government and has denounced Russia's "senseless war" in his last statement to the court.

Russian prosecutors on Thursday (July 20) requested a jail sentence of 20 years for Putin-critic Alexei Navalny. He is already in jail. Navalny is the most prominent critic of the Russian government and has denounced Russia's "senseless war" in his last statement to the court. The case is being heard in court when Russia is more than a year into its full-scale offensive against Ukraine. After the invasion began, there was an unprecedented crackdown on the Kremlin's critics, many of whom are now in jail. Navalny has been accused of links with extremist elements. It is expected that a verdict over the case would come on August 4. As the prosecutors' announcement came, the European Union added the chief of the Russian prison camp holding Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny to its sanctions list. Gravitas: Why are Wagner mercenaries training near Poland? × Navalny's trial has been held behind closed doors at the maximum security prison where he is jailed. The IK-6 penal colony, where Navalny is being held, is some 250 kilometres east of Russian capital Moscow. Navalny (47), who has in past mobilised massive anti-Kremlin protests is now serving a nine-year prison sentence on embezzlement charges. His supporters see this as a punishment for Navalny's political work. He was arrested in 2021 on his arrival in Moscow from Germany, where he had been recovering from a poisoning attack that he blamed on the Kremlin. Navalny's health problems Navalny has complained of health problems. He has also experienced major weight loss since being jailed in a strict regime penal colony. Prosecutors on Thursday asked for Navalny to serve his additional sentence in an even more restrictive, special regime prison. Navalny faces charges of financing extremist activity, publicly inciting extremist activities and "rehabilitating the Nazi ideology," among other offences. His team has said that while Navalny has been the target of multiple lawsuits, the present case is first formal politocal case against him. Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Moscow has cracked down on freedoms in Russia. Also Read | Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism Russia is "floundering in a pool of either mud or blood, with broken bones, with a poor and robbed population, and around it lie tens of thousands of people killed in the most stupid and senseless war of the 21st century," Navalny said. Media reports say that thousands of Russians have been detained because they held protests against the Ukraine invasion. Most high-profile activists still in Russia like Vladimir Kara-Murza and Ilya Yashin are behind bars. Navalny too has made his voice against Ukraine offensive heard from behind the bars. He communicates with the outside world through his legal team. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia wants Kremlin critic Navalny in jail for 20 years

<p>Controversy erupted after a Russian journalist was&nbsp;forced out of the press room before the joint press briefing of Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto and his Ukrainian counterpart&nbsp;Dmytro Kuleba in Islamabad on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The journalist identified as Ruslan Bekniyazov is the senior correspondent of the ITAR-TASS news agency in Pakistan. The incident took place on the first day of Kuleba's two-day bilateral visit to the South Asian nation.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to local media reports,&nbsp;Bekniyazov was pushed out of the press room at the suggestion of the Ukrainian embassy in Pakistan. The officials conveyed to the foreign office that no Russian journalists be allowed to attend the joint presser.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the incident, the Russian embassy in Pakistan took to Twitter to release a statement and sought clarity on the issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Russian embassy in Pakistan stands in solidarity with the Pakistani colleagues of a Russian journalist&nbsp;@RBekniyazov. It is inadmissible to violate reporters’ rights to access information,” the embassy tweeted.</p>

<p>"It is inadmissible to violate reporter's right to access information, In this regard, the Embassy requested the @ForeignOfficePk to provide clarity on the incident," it added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Notably, the tweet was soon deleted, suggesting that some communication had taken place between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Pak received first shipment of oil from Russia</strong></h2>

<p>Experts stated that the incident can offset the relations between Russia and Pakistan after the latter imported the first shipment of oil from Moscow in April. At a time when Pakistan is still facing economic hardships, despite securing a bailout package from International Monetary Fund (IMF), the cheap Russian crude offers an opportunity to balance its cash books.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-purchases-first-cargo-of-discounted-russian-oil-584524"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan purchases first cargo of discounted Russian oil</strong></a></p>

<p>On Friday, during the meeting, both Pakistan and Ukraine denied that an arms supply deal was in place in the backdrop of the Russian invasion.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I can confirm there are no intergovernmental arrangements between Pakistan and Ukraine in this area," said&nbsp;Kuleba,&nbsp;whose visit was the first&nbsp;by any foreign minister of Ukraine since the two countries established bilateral ties in 1993.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-pakistans-economic-crisis-getting-worse-550882"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Is Pakistan's economic crisis getting worse?</strong></a></p>

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<p>Despite toeing a neutral stance on the war, reports have emerged multiple times, suggesting that Pakistan may have been supplying arms to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Akin to Kuleba,&nbsp;Bilawal also rebutted such reports, claiming that Pakistan&nbsp;was strictly adhering to the policy of non-partisanship.</p>

<p>“We find it regrettable that certain media outlets are trying to publish unfounded reports alleging military supplies to Ukraine,” said Bilawal, adding,&nbsp;“Since the war began we have not concluded any agreement on defence supplies to Ukraine keeping in view our principled and consistent non-partisan position."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Controversy erupted after a Russian journalist was forced out of the press room before the joint press briefing of Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto and his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba in Islamabad on Thursday.

Controversy erupted after a Russian journalist was forced out of the press room before the joint press briefing of Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto and his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba in Islamabad on Thursday. The journalist identified as Ruslan Bekniyazov is the senior correspondent of the ITAR-TASS news agency in Pakistan. The incident took place on the first day of Kuleba's two-day bilateral visit to the South Asian nation. According to local media reports, Bekniyazov was pushed out of the press room at the suggestion of the Ukrainian embassy in Pakistan. The officials conveyed to the foreign office that no Russian journalists be allowed to attend the joint presser. After the incident, the Russian embassy in Pakistan took to Twitter to release a statement and sought clarity on the issue. “Russian embassy in Pakistan stands in solidarity with the Pakistani colleagues of a Russian journalist @RBekniyazov. It is inadmissible to violate reporters’ rights to access information,” the embassy tweeted. "It is inadmissible to violate reporter's right to access information, In this regard, the Embassy requested the @ForeignOfficePk to provide clarity on the incident," it added. Notably, the tweet was soon deleted, suggesting that some communication had taken place between the two countries. Pak received first shipment of oil from Russia Experts stated that the incident can offset the relations between Russia and Pakistan after the latter imported the first shipment of oil from Moscow in April. At a time when Pakistan is still facing economic hardships, despite securing a bailout package from International Monetary Fund (IMF), the cheap Russian crude offers an opportunity to balance its cash books. Also read | Pakistan purchases first cargo of discounted Russian oil On Friday, during the meeting, both Pakistan and Ukraine denied that an arms supply deal was in place in the backdrop of the Russian invasion. “I can confirm there are no intergovernmental arrangements between Pakistan and Ukraine in this area," said Kuleba, whose visit was the first by any foreign minister of Ukraine since the two countries established bilateral ties in 1993. WATCH | Is Pakistan's economic crisis getting worse? Despite toeing a neutral stance on the war, reports have emerged multiple times, suggesting that Pakistan may have been supplying arms to Ukraine. Akin to Kuleba, Bilawal also rebutted such reports, claiming that Pakistan was strictly adhering to the policy of non-partisanship. “We find it regrettable that certain media outlets are trying to publish unfounded reports alleging military supplies to Ukraine,” said Bilawal, adding, “Since the war began we have not concluded any agreement on defence supplies to Ukraine keeping in view our principled and consistent non-partisan position." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russian journalist expelled from joint presser of Ukrainian, Pakistan foreign ministers

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin will not be attending the upcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-wont-arrest-vladimir-putin-to-provide-diplomatic-immunity-during-brics-event-598357">BRICS summit</a> which is to be hosted in Johannesburg next month, the South African presidency said on Wednesday (July 19). &nbsp;This comes a day after court papers revealed that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said arresting Putin, who is under an international warrant over alleged war crimes in Ukraine, would amount to a declaration of war. The summit will be hosted in Johannesburg on August 22-24.</p>

<h2><strong>‘Mutual agreement’</strong></h2>

<p>The South African government said in a statement that “by mutual agreement” between the two countries, the Russian president “will not attend” the summit, adding that Moscow will be represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov instead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-will-putin-be-arrested-heres-what-happened-to-earlier-icc-arrest-warrant-599686">arrest warrant</a> against the Russian president earlier this year, and South Africa, as a member state of the world court, would be obligated to arrest Putin if he were to set foot on its territory.</p>

<p>The arrest warrant against Putin was issued after the ICC accused him of war crimes after he reportedly deported Ukrainian children to Russia. Moscow has since dismissed the order as “outrageous” and legally void since Russia is not a member of the world court.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Kremlin responds to Ramaphosa’s statement</strong></h2>

<p>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Wednesday that Moscow did not say that Putin’s arrest would mean “war,” adding that everyone understood – without having it explained to them – what an attempt to infringe on Putin’s rights would mean. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“No, no such formulations were uttered, no one gave anyone to understand that,” said Peskov, when asked if any warning was given by Moscow about the possibility of war if Putin were to get arrested.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The developments come as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-putin-discusses-ukraine-grain-deal-brics-summit-with-south-africas-ramaphosa-616065">South African president</a>&nbsp; was facing the diplomatic dilemma for months on dealing with the issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA) tried to force its hand on the incumbent government to ensure that Putin was arrested and handed over to the ICC.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, in a responding affidavit, Ramaphosa said that the DA’s application is “irresponsible,” adding “Russia has made it clear that arresting its sitting president would be a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arresting-putin-would-be-declaration-of-war-says-south-african-president-ramaphosa-617163">declaration of war.</a>”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>South African presidency about the BRICS summit</strong></h2>

<p>BRICS is a grouping of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.</p>

<p>“The Summit will be attended by the leaders of Brazil, India, China and South Africa,” said the country’s presidency ahead of the upcoming summit which will be hosted in Johannesburg.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is the first BRICS Summit to be hosted in person since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin will not be attending the upcoming BRICS summit which is to be hosted in Johannesburg next month, the South African presidency said on Wednesday (July 19).

Russian President Vladimir Putin will not be attending the upcoming BRICS summit which is to be hosted in Johannesburg next month, the South African presidency said on Wednesday (July 19). This comes a day after court papers revealed that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said arresting Putin, who is under an international warrant over alleged war crimes in Ukraine, would amount to a declaration of war. The summit will be hosted in Johannesburg on August 22-24. ‘Mutual agreement’ The South African government said in a statement that “by mutual agreement” between the two countries, the Russian president “will not attend” the summit, adding that Moscow will be represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov instead. This comes after the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant against the Russian president earlier this year, and South Africa, as a member state of the world court, would be obligated to arrest Putin if he were to set foot on its territory. The arrest warrant against Putin was issued after the ICC accused him of war crimes after he reportedly deported Ukrainian children to Russia. Moscow has since dismissed the order as “outrageous” and legally void since Russia is not a member of the world court. Kremlin responds to Ramaphosa’s statement Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Wednesday that Moscow did not say that Putin’s arrest would mean “war,” adding that everyone understood – without having it explained to them – what an attempt to infringe on Putin’s rights would mean. “No, no such formulations were uttered, no one gave anyone to understand that,” said Peskov, when asked if any warning was given by Moscow about the possibility of war if Putin were to get arrested. The developments come as the South African president was facing the diplomatic dilemma for months on dealing with the issue. The opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA) tried to force its hand on the incumbent government to ensure that Putin was arrested and handed over to the ICC. However, in a responding affidavit, Ramaphosa said that the DA’s application is “irresponsible,” adding “Russia has made it clear that arresting its sitting president would be a declaration of war.” South African presidency about the BRICS summit BRICS is a grouping of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. “The Summit will be attended by the leaders of Brazil, India, China and South Africa,” said the country’s presidency ahead of the upcoming summit which will be hosted in Johannesburg. This is the first BRICS Summit to be hosted in person since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin, facing international arrest warrant, will not attend upcoming BRICS summit in Johannesburg

<p>Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday (July 19) that it would deem all ships travelling to Ukrainian ports to be carriers of military cargo. It added that countries the flag of which would potentially fly on the ships will be considered to be party to the conflict on the Ukrainian side. Russia has taken this stance after its decision this week to pull out of the United Nations-brokered Black Sea grain import deal. This deal had previously guaranteed the safety of Ukrainian exports for the past one year.</p>

<p>"In connection with the termination of the Black Sea Initiative and the end of the maritime humanitarian corridor, from 00.00 Moscow time on July 20, 2023 (2100 GMT on Wednesday) all ships proceeding to Ukrainian ports in Black Sea waters will be considered as potential carriers of military cargo," the ministry said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | BRICS Summit 2023: FM Lavrov to represent Russia at the Summit</strong></p>

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<p>The ministry also said that Russia was also declaring southeastern and northwestern parts of the Black Sea's international waters to be temporarily unsafe for navigation. The ministry did not give details about the parts of the sea which would be affected.</p>

<h2><strong>Putin stikes conciliatory tone</strong></h2>

<p>Just when Russian Defence Ministry appeared to raise stakes, Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared to strike a conciliatory tone. He said that Russia can 'consider' returning to the grain deal if Russia's demands are "fully met".</p>

<p>"The continuation of the grain deal in its current form has lost all meaning," Putin said at a government meeting, "of course we will consider the possibility of returning to it -- but only under one condition: if all principles under which Russia agreed to participate in the deal are fully taken into account and fulfilled."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Spike in wheat prices</strong></h2>

<p>Wheat prices rose on the same day Russia said it was ceasing its participation in the grain deal. There was 3 per cent increase in wheat futures. The prices hit a high of 689.25 cents per bushel. The prices remained well below the peak they reached in May last year. The price at that time was 1177.5 cents per bushel.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia attacked grain infrastructure, accuses Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday (July 19), Ukraine accused Russia of attacking grain infrastructure during overnight strikes that were aimed at two of Ukraine's Black Sea ports. Ukraine said it will not be intimidated from working to keep grain exports moving out of them.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-boss-yevgeny-prigozhin-seen-first-time-in-public-post-failed-coup-attempt-617578">Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin seen first time in public post failed coup attempt</a></strong></p>

<p>Russia has as of now, attacked the Odesa region for second consecutive night</p>

<p>"Russian terrorists absolutely deliberately targeted the infrastructure of the grain deal," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on the Telegram messaging app. "Every Russian missile - is a strike not only on Ukraine but on everyone in the world who wants normal and safe life."</p>

<p>Due to its significant grains exports, Ukraine is often called 'breadbasket of the world'. After Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. The grain exports were impeded. This had raised the spectre of a global food crisis.</p>

<p>Turkey and the United Nations then brokered a deal between Ukraine and Russia. The Black Sea grain deal was intended to facilitate Russian and Ukrainian agricultural exports. The deal expired on July 17. Russia declined to renew its participation.</p>

<p>There has been a constant complaint from Moscow that a parallel deal to ease rules for Russian exports of food and fertilisers was not being implemented. Kyiv has called for security guarantees to allow shipping to resume without Russian participation.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday (July 19) that it would deem all ships travelling to Ukrainian ports to be carriers of military cargo. It added that countries the flag of which would potentially fly on the ships will be considered to be party to the conflict on the Ukrainian side.

Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday (July 19) that it would deem all ships travelling to Ukrainian ports to be carriers of military cargo. It added that countries the flag of which would potentially fly on the ships will be considered to be party to the conflict on the Ukrainian side. Russia has taken this stance after its decision this week to pull out of the United Nations-brokered Black Sea grain import deal. This deal had previously guaranteed the safety of Ukrainian exports for the past one year. "In connection with the termination of the Black Sea Initiative and the end of the maritime humanitarian corridor, from 00.00 Moscow time on July 20, 2023 (2100 GMT on Wednesday) all ships proceeding to Ukrainian ports in Black Sea waters will be considered as potential carriers of military cargo," the ministry said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app. Watch | BRICS Summit 2023: FM Lavrov to represent Russia at the Summit × The ministry also said that Russia was also declaring southeastern and northwestern parts of the Black Sea's international waters to be temporarily unsafe for navigation. The ministry did not give details about the parts of the sea which would be affected. Putin stikes conciliatory tone Just when Russian Defence Ministry appeared to raise stakes, Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared to strike a conciliatory tone. He said that Russia can 'consider' returning to the grain deal if Russia's demands are "fully met". "The continuation of the grain deal in its current form has lost all meaning," Putin said at a government meeting, "of course we will consider the possibility of returning to it -- but only under one condition: if all principles under which Russia agreed to participate in the deal are fully taken into account and fulfilled." Spike in wheat prices Wheat prices rose on the same day Russia said it was ceasing its participation in the grain deal. There was 3 per cent increase in wheat futures. The prices hit a high of 689.25 cents per bushel. The prices remained well below the peak they reached in May last year. The price at that time was 1177.5 cents per bushel. Russia attacked grain infrastructure, accuses Ukraine On Wednesday (July 19), Ukraine accused Russia of attacking grain infrastructure during overnight strikes that were aimed at two of Ukraine's Black Sea ports. Ukraine said it will not be intimidated from working to keep grain exports moving out of them. Also Read | Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin seen first time in public post failed coup attempt Russia has as of now, attacked the Odesa region for second consecutive night "Russian terrorists absolutely deliberately targeted the infrastructure of the grain deal," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on the Telegram messaging app. "Every Russian missile - is a strike not only on Ukraine but on everyone in the world who wants normal and safe life." Due to its significant grains exports, Ukraine is often called 'breadbasket of the world'. After Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. The grain exports were impeded. This had raised the spectre of a global food crisis. Turkey and the United Nations then brokered a deal between Ukraine and Russia. The Black Sea grain deal was intended to facilitate Russian and Ukrainian agricultural exports. The deal expired on July 17. Russia declined to renew its participation. There has been a constant complaint from Moscow that a parallel deal to ease rules for Russian exports of food and fertilisers was not being implemented. Kyiv has called for security guarantees to allow shipping to resume without Russian participation. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Blow hot blow cold? Putin sounds conciliatory but defence ministry raises stakes on grain ships

<p>The United States on Wednesday announced additional security assistance of about $1.3 billion for Ukraine in its war with Russia, the package including air defence capabilities, drones and munitions.</p>

<p>"This announcement represents the beginning of a contracting process to provide additional priority capabilities to Ukraine," the Pentagon said in a statement.</p>

<p>The United States is using funds in its Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) program, which allows President Joe Biden's administration to buy weapons from industry rather than pull from US&nbsp;weapons stocks.</p>

<p>The package includes four National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) and munitions; 152 millimetre artillery rounds; mine clearing equipment; and drones, according to the Pentagon.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-strike-on-ukraines-mykolaiv-injures-nine-including-children-617642">Russian strike on Ukraine's Mykolaiv injures nine, including children</a></p>

<p>The US&nbsp;Department of Defence announced the aid a day after a virtual meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group, allies assisting Ukraine as its forces press a counteroffensive against Russian troops occupying Ukrainian territory.</p>

<p>Delivery of the weapons and systems depends on their availability and production timeline.</p>

<p>The Pentagon has provided more than $10.8 billion in security assistance for Ukraine under the USAI in fiscal 2023, in seven separate tranches. The planned package would be the eighth. In the fiscal year that ended September 30, 2022, Washington put $6.3 billion worth of USAI funds to work buying for Ukraine's defence.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine's Real Hero: The General who masterminded the counter-offensive against Russia</strong></p>

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<p>Overall, the US&nbsp;has sent over $40 billion in the form of security and military assistance to Ukraine since Russia invaded in February 2022.</p>

<p>The package includes two different types of loitering munitions, the Phoenix Ghost drone made by AVEVEX, a private company in California, and the Switchblade, made by AeroVironment.</p>

<p>Earlier this month, the United States announced that it will send Ukraine cluster munitions - prohibited by more than 100 countries - to Ukraine. Human rights groups and some US&nbsp;allies, including Germany and Canada, oppose that decision.</p>

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The United States on Wednesday announced additional security assistance of about $1.3 billion for Ukraine in its war with Russia, the package including air defence capabilities, drones and munitions.

The United States on Wednesday announced additional security assistance of about $1.3 billion for Ukraine in its war with Russia, the package including air defence capabilities, drones and munitions. "This announcement represents the beginning of a contracting process to provide additional priority capabilities to Ukraine," the Pentagon said in a statement. The United States is using funds in its Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) program, which allows President Joe Biden's administration to buy weapons from industry rather than pull from US weapons stocks. The package includes four National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) and munitions; 152 millimetre artillery rounds; mine clearing equipment; and drones, according to the Pentagon. ALSO READ | Russian strike on Ukraine's Mykolaiv injures nine, including children The US Department of Defence announced the aid a day after a virtual meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group, allies assisting Ukraine as its forces press a counteroffensive against Russian troops occupying Ukrainian territory. Delivery of the weapons and systems depends on their availability and production timeline. The Pentagon has provided more than $10.8 billion in security assistance for Ukraine under the USAI in fiscal 2023, in seven separate tranches. The planned package would be the eighth. In the fiscal year that ended September 30, 2022, Washington put $6.3 billion worth of USAI funds to work buying for Ukraine's defence. WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine's Real Hero: The General who masterminded the counter-offensive against Russia Overall, the US has sent over $40 billion in the form of security and military assistance to Ukraine since Russia invaded in February 2022. The package includes two different types of loitering munitions, the Phoenix Ghost drone made by AVEVEX, a private company in California, and the Switchblade, made by AeroVironment. Earlier this month, the United States announced that it will send Ukraine cluster munitions - prohibited by more than 100 countries - to Ukraine. Human rights groups and some US allies, including Germany and Canada, oppose that decision. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US provides Ukraine with additional military aid worth $1.3 bn

<p>Worsening the relations, Kremlin on Thursday announced restrictions on the movement of British diplomats working in Russia. Moscow said the British workers&nbsp;will have to notify authorities about their movements in advance, according to an AFP report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian foreign ministry summoned&nbsp;Britain's charge d'affaires Tom Dodd and informed&nbsp;him of a "notification procedure for the movement of employees of British diplomatic missions".</p>

<p>The procedure will be imposed on&nbsp;"accredited personnel" of the British embassy in Moscow and the consulate general in Yekaterinburg, in the Urals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The diplomats will need to provide information of at least&nbsp;five working days of travel outside the "120-kilometre (75-mile) free movement zone". Additionally, the information provided should contain "the timings, purpose, type of trip, planned business contacts, accompanying persons, mode of transport, places of visit and accommodation as well as the route of the trip".</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-kyiv-used-missiles-from-uk-to-attack-luhansk-says-russia-592157"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Ukraine war: Kyiv used missiles from UK to attack Luhansk, claims Russia</strong></a></p>

<p>Moscow defended the decision saying it was introduced to counter the&nbsp;"hostile actions" of London, a key ally of Ukraine. It added the caveat that measures will not apply to the British ambassador and several other diplomats.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Britain continues to impose sanctions&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in the day, the British government imposed sanctions on&nbsp;13 individuals and businesses in the Central African Republic, Mali and Sudan that had alleged links to Russia's now-disbanded&nbsp;Wagner Group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Wherever Wagner operates, it has a catastrophic effect on communities, worsens existing conflicts and damages the reputations of countries that host them," said Britain's minister for Development and Africa Andrew Mitchell.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-war-exposes-the-weaknesses-in-uk-military-617070"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine war exposes the weaknesses in UK military</strong></a></p>

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<p>On Monday (July 17), Russian Education Minister&nbsp;Sergey Kravtsov was also placed on the sanctions list by the Rishi Sunak administration for hatching the forced deportation of Ukrainian children programme. Overall, 13 new sanctions were imposed, in response to&nbsp;"Russia's attempts to destroy Ukrainian national identity".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In his chilling programme of forced child deportation, and the hate-filled propaganda spewed by his lackeys, we see (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's true intention - to wipe Ukraine from the map," said British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this month, Moscow informed it had brought over 700,00 children from the conflict zones in Ukraine into Russian territory for protection. However, the Western world reacted sharply to the announcement saying Russia was sending these kids to "re-education camps" where they were being exposed to&nbsp;Russia-centric academic, cultural, patriotic, and military education.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Worsening the relations, Kremlin on Thursday announced restrictions on the movement of British diplomats working in Russia. Moscow said the British workers will have to notify authorities about their movements in advance, according to an AFP report.

Worsening the relations, Kremlin on Thursday announced restrictions on the movement of British diplomats working in Russia. Moscow said the British workers will have to notify authorities about their movements in advance, according to an AFP report. The Russian foreign ministry summoned Britain's charge d'affaires Tom Dodd and informed him of a "notification procedure for the movement of employees of British diplomatic missions". The procedure will be imposed on "accredited personnel" of the British embassy in Moscow and the consulate general in Yekaterinburg, in the Urals. The diplomats will need to provide information of at least five working days of travel outside the "120-kilometre (75-mile) free movement zone". Additionally, the information provided should contain "the timings, purpose, type of trip, planned business contacts, accompanying persons, mode of transport, places of visit and accommodation as well as the route of the trip". Also read | Ukraine war: Kyiv used missiles from UK to attack Luhansk, claims Russia Moscow defended the decision saying it was introduced to counter the "hostile actions" of London, a key ally of Ukraine. It added the caveat that measures will not apply to the British ambassador and several other diplomats. Britain continues to impose sanctions Earlier in the day, the British government imposed sanctions on 13 individuals and businesses in the Central African Republic, Mali and Sudan that had alleged links to Russia's now-disbanded Wagner Group. "Wherever Wagner operates, it has a catastrophic effect on communities, worsens existing conflicts and damages the reputations of countries that host them," said Britain's minister for Development and Africa Andrew Mitchell. Watch | Ukraine war exposes the weaknesses in UK military × On Monday (July 17), Russian Education Minister Sergey Kravtsov was also placed on the sanctions list by the Rishi Sunak administration for hatching the forced deportation of Ukrainian children programme. Overall, 13 new sanctions were imposed, in response to "Russia's attempts to destroy Ukrainian national identity". "In his chilling programme of forced child deportation, and the hate-filled propaganda spewed by his lackeys, we see (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's true intention - to wipe Ukraine from the map," said British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly. Earlier this month, Moscow informed it had brought over 700,00 children from the conflict zones in Ukraine into Russian territory for protection. However, the Western world reacted sharply to the announcement saying Russia was sending these kids to "re-education camps" where they were being exposed to Russia-centric academic, cultural, patriotic, and military education. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Moscow restricts movement of British diplomats in Russia. Know why

<p>Russia is reportedly amassing 100,000 troops to obliterate Kyiv’s defences in the Kharkiv region, the Ukrainian army has said. Moscow is challenging Kyiv’s defences in the eastern sector of Kupiansk as Ukrainian forces are concentrating on the counteroffensive efforts on the southern front, Ukraine’s Army Command East spokesman Serhiy Cherevatyi said on Monday.</p>

<p>He said that Russia has gathered around 100,000 troops, 900 tanks and 555 artillery systems in the area.</p>

<p>“They are concentrating everything in order to break through our defence. Our soldiers are firmly on the defensive. They do not allow the enemy to seize the initiative,” Cherevatyi was quoted as saying by Politico.</p>

<p>Cherevatyi also said that Russia had ordered Storm-Z ex-convict battalions to prepare for battle and was firing more than 500 shells per day at Ukrainian forces around Kupyansk.</p>

<p>Kupyansk is a town in the northeastern Kharkiv region of Ukraine. Kyiv recaptured the town, which previously had a population of 25,000 people&nbsp;in September last year.</p>

<p>Ukrainian Army Land Forces Commander General Oleksandr Syrsky also confirmed that Russia has gathered its forces to attack the Kupiansk region, however, it has been unable to break through so far.</p>

<p>Syrsky commands Ukraine’s operations around the key battleground of Bakhmut, where Kyiv has managed to seize the initiative and retake high ground around the destroyed city after Russia occupied it earlier this year.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia trains guns at&nbsp;Black Sea coast</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Russia launched fresh missile attacks on Ukraine's Black Sea coast, days after it backed out of extending the grain deal.</p>

<p>The missiles damaged 60,000 tonnes of grain and damaged storage infrastructure.</p>

<p>Agriculture Minister Mykola Solskyi said a "considerable amount" of export infrastructure was out of operation, BBC reported.</p>

<p>He said that the 60,000 tonnes destroyed in the strike were "supposed to be loaded on a large-tonnage ship and sent through the grain corridor 60 days ago".</p>

<p>Hours later, Russia's defence ministry declared that from Wednesday night, any ships heading to Ukrainian ports would be viewed as potential carriers of military cargo and party to the conflict.</p>

<p>Some north-western and south-eastern areas of the Black Sea would be temporarily dangerous for shipping, it added.</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said each missile strike was a blow not just to Ukraine, but to "everyone in the world striving for a normal and safe life".</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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Russia is reportedly amassing 100,000 troops to obliterate Kyiv’s defences in the Kharkiv region, the Ukrainian army has said. Moscow is challenging Kyiv’s defences in the eastern sector of Kupiansk as Ukrainian forces are concentrating on the counteroffensive efforts on the southern front, Ukraine’s Army Command East spokesman Serhiy Cherevatyi said on Monday.

Russia is reportedly amassing 100,000 troops to obliterate Kyiv’s defences in the Kharkiv region, the Ukrainian army has said. Moscow is challenging Kyiv’s defences in the eastern sector of Kupiansk as Ukrainian forces are concentrating on the counteroffensive efforts on the southern front, Ukraine’s Army Command East spokesman Serhiy Cherevatyi said on Monday. He said that Russia has gathered around 100,000 troops, 900 tanks and 555 artillery systems in the area. “They are concentrating everything in order to break through our defence. Our soldiers are firmly on the defensive. They do not allow the enemy to seize the initiative,” Cherevatyi was quoted as saying by Politico. Cherevatyi also said that Russia had ordered Storm-Z ex-convict battalions to prepare for battle and was firing more than 500 shells per day at Ukrainian forces around Kupyansk. Kupyansk is a town in the northeastern Kharkiv region of Ukraine. Kyiv recaptured the town, which previously had a population of 25,000 people in September last year. Ukrainian Army Land Forces Commander General Oleksandr Syrsky also confirmed that Russia has gathered its forces to attack the Kupiansk region, however, it has been unable to break through so far. Syrsky commands Ukraine’s operations around the key battleground of Bakhmut, where Kyiv has managed to seize the initiative and retake high ground around the destroyed city after Russia occupied it earlier this year. Russia trains guns at Black Sea coast Meanwhile, Russia launched fresh missile attacks on Ukraine's Black Sea coast, days after it backed out of extending the grain deal. The missiles damaged 60,000 tonnes of grain and damaged storage infrastructure. Agriculture Minister Mykola Solskyi said a "considerable amount" of export infrastructure was out of operation, BBC reported. He said that the 60,000 tonnes destroyed in the strike were "supposed to be loaded on a large-tonnage ship and sent through the grain corridor 60 days ago". Hours later, Russia's defence ministry declared that from Wednesday night, any ships heading to Ukrainian ports would be viewed as potential carriers of military cargo and party to the conflict. Some north-western and south-eastern areas of the Black Sea would be temporarily dangerous for shipping, it added. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said each missile strike was a blow not just to Ukraine, but to "everyone in the world striving for a normal and safe life". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia amassing 100,000 troops to launch attack on Kharkiv: Ukraine

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidrLnTMwbK0IE1" /><meta charset="utf-8" />The Chinese consulate in the Ukrainian port city of Odesa has been damaged in the overnight strike by the Russian forces. Oleh Kiper, the regional governor confirmed the attack, saying Russia was 'deliberately' hitting the port infrastructure.</p>

<p>"As a result of the Russian night attack, the building of the consulate general of the People’s Republic of China in Odesa was damaged," Kiper said on Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The aggressor deliberately hits the port infrastructure. Administrative and residential buildings, as well as the consulate of the People’s Republic of China, were damaged. This suggests that the enemy does not pay attention to anything," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Chinese side is yet to comment on the issue. But a stern reaction is highly unlikely as ever since the war broke out, China has refused to publicly discourage Russia. Meanwhile, senior officials have often expressed direct support saying Beijing acknowledges “legitimate and reasonable security concerns”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Strikes in Mykolaiv and Odesa port cities</strong></h2>

<p>After the third consecutive day of strikes battered the port cities of Odesa and Mykolaiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky offered condolences to the victims. Reports stated that two people were killed while 27 were injured in the overnight attacks by Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Odesa. Mykolaiv. Russian terrorists continue their attempts to destroy the life of our country. But the evil state has no missiles that are more powerful than our will to save lives, support each other and win," said Zelensky.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Ukrainian president aide admits counteroffensive will take long</strong></p>

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<p>The Ukrainian air force said early Thursday that at least eight Russian Tu-22M3 aircraft were "flying in the direction of the Black Sea."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine, which reclaimed much of the territory last September, warned this week that Russia was again on the attack in the region, with "heavy fighting" taking place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ministry spokesperson Igor Konashenkov said that Russian forces also launched strikes on military-industrial sites, a fuel and ammunition store in Odesa, and a Ukrainian Air Force air base in the Kirovogradska region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-strike-on-ukraines-mykolaiv-injures-nine-including-children-617642" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Russian strike on Ukraine's port city of Mykolaiv injures nine, including children</strong></a></p>

<p>The strikes intensified after Moscow pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal on Monday, leading to an exponential rise in wheat prices globally. While the wheat remains stuck in Ukrainian ports, the Russian side has started "deliberately targeting the grain deal infrastructure", according to Zelensky.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts argue that the domino effect will be reflected in global inflation which had calmed down after a long time.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Chinese consulate in the Ukrainian port city of Odesa has been damaged in the overnight strike by the Russian forces. Oleh Kiper, the regional governor confirmed the attack, saying Russia was 'deliberately' hitting the port infrastructure.

The Chinese consulate in the Ukrainian port city of Odesa has been damaged in the overnight strike by the Russian forces. Oleh Kiper, the regional governor confirmed the attack, saying Russia was 'deliberately' hitting the port infrastructure. "As a result of the Russian night attack, the building of the consulate general of the People’s Republic of China in Odesa was damaged," Kiper said on Telegram. "The aggressor deliberately hits the port infrastructure. Administrative and residential buildings, as well as the consulate of the People’s Republic of China, were damaged. This suggests that the enemy does not pay attention to anything," he added. The Chinese side is yet to comment on the issue. But a stern reaction is highly unlikely as ever since the war broke out, China has refused to publicly discourage Russia. Meanwhile, senior officials have often expressed direct support saying Beijing acknowledges “legitimate and reasonable security concerns”. Strikes in Mykolaiv and Odesa port cities After the third consecutive day of strikes battered the port cities of Odesa and Mykolaiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky offered condolences to the victims. Reports stated that two people were killed while 27 were injured in the overnight attacks by Moscow. “Odesa. Mykolaiv. Russian terrorists continue their attempts to destroy the life of our country. But the evil state has no missiles that are more powerful than our will to save lives, support each other and win," said Zelensky. Watch: Ukrainian president aide admits counteroffensive will take long × The Ukrainian air force said early Thursday that at least eight Russian Tu-22M3 aircraft were "flying in the direction of the Black Sea." Ukraine, which reclaimed much of the territory last September, warned this week that Russia was again on the attack in the region, with "heavy fighting" taking place. Ministry spokesperson Igor Konashenkov said that Russian forces also launched strikes on military-industrial sites, a fuel and ammunition store in Odesa, and a Ukrainian Air Force air base in the Kirovogradska region. Also read | Russian strike on Ukraine's port city of Mykolaiv injures nine, including children The strikes intensified after Moscow pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal on Monday, leading to an exponential rise in wheat prices globally. While the wheat remains stuck in Ukrainian ports, the Russian side has started "deliberately targeting the grain deal infrastructure", according to Zelensky. Experts argue that the domino effect will be reflected in global inflation which had calmed down after a long time. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Chinese consulate damaged by Russian strike in port city of Odesa: Reports

<p>An American think tank has claimed that insubordination is&nbsp;on the rise in the Russian military after top commanders were fired over questioning Kremlin's war strategy.&nbsp;The Institute for the Study of War said the disobeying of orders by the Russian troops was creating a problem for President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report claimed that incidences of insubordination rose after the dismissal of Maj. Gen. Ivan Popov, the commander of the 58th army in the Zaporizhzhia region - a focal point in Ukraine's counteroffensive. After&nbsp;Popov's firing, several military bloggers across the country criticised the Putin administration for taking unilateral calls that may harm morale.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an audio statement released for his troops, Popov could be heard saying he was inflicted a&nbsp;"treacherous" stab after meeting the top military brass of the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The top officers apparently saw me as a source of threat and rapidly issued an order to get rid of me, which was signed by the defence minister in just one day," he said. "The Ukrainian military has failed to break through our army's defences, but the top commander hit us in the rear, treacherously and cowardly beheading the army at this most difficult moment."</p>

<p>"It was necessary either to keep quiet and be a coward or to say it the way it is.&nbsp;I had no right to lie in the name of you, in the name of my fallen comrades in arms, so I outlined all the problems which exist," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-top-general-sacked-for-questioning-defence-ministrys-tactics-in-southern-ukraine-615131"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Russian top general sacked for questioning defence ministry’s tactics in southern Ukraine</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Threat issued by troops&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Apart from Popov, the dismissals of&nbsp;106th Guards Airborne (VDV) Division Commander Major General Vladimir Seliverstov,&nbsp;7th VDV Division Commander Major General Alexander Kornev&nbsp;and&nbsp;Major General Ramil Ibatullin,&nbsp;90th Tank Division Commander have sullied the morale of troops fighting on the frontlines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A prominent Kremlin-affiliated blogger claimed that Seliverstov’s dismissal was a result of similar insubordination, and Russian sources claimed that Seliverstov had a reputation for speaking up on behalf of his soldiers," the think tank noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russian President Putin may visit China to attend Belt &amp; Road Summit in October&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>With reports claiming that the Russian defence ministry was planning to arrest VDV Commander Colonel General Mikhail Teplinsky, troops in the division have threatened they would&nbsp;withdraw from their positions in occupied Kherson Oblast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The VDV servicemen are blackmailing the Russian MoD to ensure that Teplinsky continues to command troops in Ukraine, despite Teplinsky’s previous affiliation with Wagner Group financier Yevgeny Prigozhin.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia's struggles&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Despite making decent headways in the war, Russia has struggled to maintain an effective command structure, experts argue. It is perhaps one of the reasons why Ukraine has managed to put up a defiant defence which has not been breached completely so far.</p>

<p>Several big names have been purged while others have been quietly removed from public duty. The think tank said if the current situation persists, the morale of troops is likely to be hurt which will "degrade Russian capabilities to conduct tactical offensive operations that are critical to the Russian elastic defence in southern Ukraine".&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>(<em>Disclaimer:</em></strong><em> <strong>A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.)</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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An American think tank has claimed that insubordination is on the rise in the Russian military after top commanders were fired over questioning Kremlin's war strategy.

An American think tank has claimed that insubordination is on the rise in the Russian military after top commanders were fired over questioning Kremlin's war strategy. The Institute for the Study of War said the disobeying of orders by the Russian troops was creating a problem for President Vladimir Putin. The report claimed that incidences of insubordination rose after the dismissal of Maj. Gen. Ivan Popov, the commander of the 58th army in the Zaporizhzhia region - a focal point in Ukraine's counteroffensive. After Popov's firing, several military bloggers across the country criticised the Putin administration for taking unilateral calls that may harm morale. In an audio statement released for his troops, Popov could be heard saying he was inflicted a "treacherous" stab after meeting the top military brass of the country. "The top officers apparently saw me as a source of threat and rapidly issued an order to get rid of me, which was signed by the defence minister in just one day," he said. "The Ukrainian military has failed to break through our army's defences, but the top commander hit us in the rear, treacherously and cowardly beheading the army at this most difficult moment." "It was necessary either to keep quiet and be a coward or to say it the way it is. I had no right to lie in the name of you, in the name of my fallen comrades in arms, so I outlined all the problems which exist," he added. Also read | Russian top general sacked for questioning defence ministry’s tactics in southern Ukraine Threat issued by troops Apart from Popov, the dismissals of 106th Guards Airborne (VDV) Division Commander Major General Vladimir Seliverstov, 7th VDV Division Commander Major General Alexander Kornev and Major General Ramil Ibatullin, 90th Tank Division Commander have sullied the morale of troops fighting on the frontlines. "A prominent Kremlin-affiliated blogger claimed that Seliverstov’s dismissal was a result of similar insubordination, and Russian sources claimed that Seliverstov had a reputation for speaking up on behalf of his soldiers," the think tank noted. Watch | Russian President Putin may visit China to attend Belt & Road Summit in October With reports claiming that the Russian defence ministry was planning to arrest VDV Commander Colonel General Mikhail Teplinsky, troops in the division have threatened they would withdraw from their positions in occupied Kherson Oblast. The VDV servicemen are blackmailing the Russian MoD to ensure that Teplinsky continues to command troops in Ukraine, despite Teplinsky’s previous affiliation with Wagner Group financier Yevgeny Prigozhin. Russia's struggles Despite making decent headways in the war, Russia has struggled to maintain an effective command structure, experts argue. It is perhaps one of the reasons why Ukraine has managed to put up a defiant defence which has not been breached completely so far. Several big names have been purged while others have been quietly removed from public duty. The think tank said if the current situation persists, the morale of troops is likely to be hurt which will "degrade Russian capabilities to conduct tactical offensive operations that are critical to the Russian elastic defence in southern Ukraine". (Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.) (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Putin facing increasing insubordination from troops amid chain of command crisis in military

<p>Russia has tightened its sanitary and quarantine measures for flights from Egypt as&nbsp;the latter is&nbsp;witnessing&nbsp;the outbreak of an unidentified disease, said a report by Russian news agency TASS, on Monday (July 17) citing officials from the country’s sanitary watchdog, Rospotrebnadzor.</p>

<h2><strong>What do we know about the mysterious outbreak?</strong></h2>

<p>Over the weekend, the Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population issued a statement after residents of Qena governorate, in upper Egypt reported a mysterious disease which has affected about 250 people in the al-Aleqat village, reported the Egypt Independent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The cases were first reported on the Egyptian television channel, MBC Masr, by prominent journalist Amr Adib, on Saturday, who said that 200 people have been infected by an unidentified disease with symptoms like high fever, headache, fatigue, and stomach pain.</p>

<p>According to Egyptian health officials, patients’ symptoms do not have a uniform pattern and are mild to moderate, therefore do not require hospitalisation. The symptoms, which sometimes include&nbsp;bone pain, lasted between three to five days.</p>

<h2><strong>What could have caused it?</strong></h2>

<p>The Egyptian health ministry, in its statement, also confirmed that its teams from the epidemiological surveillance were sent to investigate the reports and samples were taken from both the patients as well as their environment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, they are also using preventive and therapeutic medicine. The Egyptian officials also noted that these symptoms are common to many diseases such as cold and influenza, gastroenteritis and fever, which can spread due to high temperatures.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, they can disappear with rest, fever reducers, and by keeping yourself hydrated, said the officials, according to the media report.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia takes measures against ‘unidentified disease’</strong></h2>

<p>“In light of the current situation, Rospotrebnadzor has tightened sanitary and quarantine controls with respect to flights from Egypt, including using the Perimeter automated information system,” said the Russian sanitary watchdog, on Monday, as quoted by TASS.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Rospotrebnadzor, symptoms noted by the Egyptian authorities resemble those of dengue fever. The Russian agency also said that they are in contact with Egyptian officials about the situation as well as international organisations to learn about the disease and its risks of trans-border proliferation, and preventive and epidemic measures.</p>

<p>The Russian watchdog also issued an advisory to Russian tourists planning to visit Egypt asking them to wear clothes that “maximally protect the skin,” use mosquito repellents, and put mosquito nets over doors and windows to avoid getting insect-borne infectious and parasitic diseases.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted via Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, the Rospotrebnadzor noted. It added dengue fever cannot be caught from being close to an infected person, it can be contracted only from the bite of an infected mosquito.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

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Russia has tightened its sanitary and quarantine measures for flights from Egypt as the latter is witnessing the outbreak of an unidentified disease, said a report by Russian news agency TASS, on Monday (July 17) citing officials from the country’s sanitary watchdog, Rospotrebnadzor.

Russia has tightened its sanitary and quarantine measures for flights from Egypt as the latter is witnessing the outbreak of an unidentified disease, said a report by Russian news agency TASS, on Monday (July 17) citing officials from the country’s sanitary watchdog, Rospotrebnadzor. What do we know about the mysterious outbreak? Over the weekend, the Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population issued a statement after residents of Qena governorate, in upper Egypt reported a mysterious disease which has affected about 250 people in the al-Aleqat village, reported the Egypt Independent. The cases were first reported on the Egyptian television channel, MBC Masr, by prominent journalist Amr Adib, on Saturday, who said that 200 people have been infected by an unidentified disease with symptoms like high fever, headache, fatigue, and stomach pain. According to Egyptian health officials, patients’ symptoms do not have a uniform pattern and are mild to moderate, therefore do not require hospitalisation. The symptoms, which sometimes include bone pain, lasted between three to five days. What could have caused it? The Egyptian health ministry, in its statement, also confirmed that its teams from the epidemiological surveillance were sent to investigate the reports and samples were taken from both the patients as well as their environment. Additionally, they are also using preventive and therapeutic medicine. The Egyptian officials also noted that these symptoms are common to many diseases such as cold and influenza, gastroenteritis and fever, which can spread due to high temperatures. However, they can disappear with rest, fever reducers, and by keeping yourself hydrated, said the officials, according to the media report. Russia takes measures against ‘unidentified disease’ “In light of the current situation, Rospotrebnadzor has tightened sanitary and quarantine controls with respect to flights from Egypt, including using the Perimeter automated information system,” said the Russian sanitary watchdog, on Monday, as quoted by TASS. According to the Rospotrebnadzor, symptoms noted by the Egyptian authorities resemble those of dengue fever. The Russian agency also said that they are in contact with Egyptian officials about the situation as well as international organisations to learn about the disease and its risks of trans-border proliferation, and preventive and epidemic measures. The Russian watchdog also issued an advisory to Russian tourists planning to visit Egypt asking them to wear clothes that “maximally protect the skin,” use mosquito repellents, and put mosquito nets over doors and windows to avoid getting insect-borne infectious and parasitic diseases. Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted via Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, the Rospotrebnadzor noted. It added dengue fever cannot be caught from being close to an infected person, it can be contracted only from the bite of an infected mosquito. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia ramps up security protocols for flights from Egypt after outbreak of mysterious disease

<p>China and Russia conducted a record number of military drills last year when compared to the past two decades or so, said a report by Bloomberg. China’s defence ministry, on Sunday (July 16) also announced another joint air and sea drill in the Sea of Japan with Russia which is said to be aimed at “safeguarding the security of strategic waterways.”</p>

<h2><strong>Record-high number of military drills</strong></h2>

<p>A report by Bloomberg, citing data compiled by the United States National Defense University’s Center for the Study of Chinese Military Affairs, said that Beijing and Moscow conducted six joint military exercises together, in 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The number was a record high for military exercises and accounted for two-thirds of all of China’s drills with foreign militaries, with data going back 20 years, said the report. Out of the six exercises, five took place after the Russian invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes as Washington has warned Beijing against supplying arms to Moscow but China has become an economic and diplomatic shelter for Russia which is facing thousands of sanctions since the beginning of the conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the two countries’ defence history has been marred by suspicion following a months-long conflict along their border in the late 1960s, the trust between Moscow and Beijing is relatively new. Reportedly, it was until 2015 that the Russia-China ties strengthened after the US and Europe imposed sanctions against Moscow for annexing Crimea, the year prior.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to an NDU and a Bloomberg News tally, Russia and China have conducted at least 36 drills together since Moscow seized Crimea when compared to just 10 exercises recorded before 2014. The report also noted that while these drills are on a&nbsp;relatively&nbsp;smaller scale than those conducted by the US and its allies, they are politically significant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“These exercises will become more frequent, more kind of politically charged and have a lot of like political signaling value,” said Andrew Taffer, a research fellow at the NDU, as quoted by Bloomberg. He added, “It suggests the possibility they might work together in ways that the US and its allies find unpalatable, if not offensive.”</p>

<p>It is also worth noting that days before Russia began its “special military operation” in Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping declared a “no limits” partnership. One notable area of that partnership is said to be military cooperation.</p>

<h2><strong>Upcoming ‘Northern/Interaction-2023’ drills</strong></h2>

<p>China’s defence ministry, on Sunday, said that they sent a Chinese naval flotilla which comprises five warships and four ship-borne helicopters which will rendezvous with Russian forces in a “predetermined area”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes a day after the Chinese defence ministry said it would conduct military drills with Russian naval and air forces which will take place in the Sea of Japan. Meanwhile, two Russian warships &nbsp;– Gromkiy and Sovershenniy – are taking part in the Sea of Japan drill.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It will be the first time that both Russian forces take part in the drill, reported the state newspaper Global Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The drills codenamed “Northern/Interaction-2023” will be organised by the People’s Liberation Army’s Northern Theatre Command, said the ministry, on Saturday, without giving any date on which they will be conducted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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China and Russia conducted a record number of military drills last year when compared to the past two decades or so, said a report by Bloomberg. China’s defence ministry, on Sunday (July 16) also announced another joint air and sea drill in the Sea of Japan with Russia which is said to be aimed at “safeguarding the security of strategic waterways.

China and Russia conducted a record number of military drills last year when compared to the past two decades or so, said a report by Bloomberg. China’s defence ministry, on Sunday (July 16) also announced another joint air and sea drill in the Sea of Japan with Russia which is said to be aimed at “safeguarding the security of strategic waterways.” Record-high number of military drills A report by Bloomberg, citing data compiled by the United States National Defense University’s Center for the Study of Chinese Military Affairs, said that Beijing and Moscow conducted six joint military exercises together, in 2022. The number was a record high for military exercises and accounted for two-thirds of all of China’s drills with foreign militaries, with data going back 20 years, said the report. Out of the six exercises, five took place after the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This comes as Washington has warned Beijing against supplying arms to Moscow but China has become an economic and diplomatic shelter for Russia which is facing thousands of sanctions since the beginning of the conflict. While the two countries’ defence history has been marred by suspicion following a months-long conflict along their border in the late 1960s, the trust between Moscow and Beijing is relatively new. Reportedly, it was until 2015 that the Russia-China ties strengthened after the US and Europe imposed sanctions against Moscow for annexing Crimea, the year prior. According to an NDU and a Bloomberg News tally, Russia and China have conducted at least 36 drills together since Moscow seized Crimea when compared to just 10 exercises recorded before 2014. The report also noted that while these drills are on a relatively smaller scale than those conducted by the US and its allies, they are politically significant. “These exercises will become more frequent, more kind of politically charged and have a lot of like political signaling value,” said Andrew Taffer, a research fellow at the NDU, as quoted by Bloomberg. He added, “It suggests the possibility they might work together in ways that the US and its allies find unpalatable, if not offensive.” It is also worth noting that days before Russia began its “special military operation” in Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping declared a “no limits” partnership. One notable area of that partnership is said to be military cooperation. Upcoming ‘Northern/Interaction-2023’ drills China’s defence ministry, on Sunday, said that they sent a Chinese naval flotilla which comprises five warships and four ship-borne helicopters which will rendezvous with Russian forces in a “predetermined area”. This comes a day after the Chinese defence ministry said it would conduct military drills with Russian naval and air forces which will take place in the Sea of Japan. Meanwhile, two Russian warships – Gromkiy and Sovershenniy – are taking part in the Sea of Japan drill. It will be the first time that both Russian forces take part in the drill, reported the state newspaper Global Times. The drills codenamed “Northern/Interaction-2023” will be organised by the People’s Liberation Army’s Northern Theatre Command, said the ministry, on Saturday, without giving any date on which they will be conducted. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China, Russia conducted record-high number of military drills in 2022: Report

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