A mere “typo” led millions of US military emails that contained highly sensitive information to be redirected to Mali, a West African country which is an ally of Russia.

The confusion seems to have arisen due to the domain name for sending emails. While the US military uses “.MIL” domain, the mails were being sent to “.ML,” the domain for Mali.

As a result, sensitive information, including diplomatic documents, tax returns, passwords, and travel details of top officers, were sent erroneously to the Mali government’s official email ID.

<h2>Happened multiple times</h2>

But what is concerning is that it has happened multiple times, with the first instance being reported almost a decade ago by Johannes Zuurbier, a Dutch internet entrepreneur who has a contract to manage Mali’s country domain, the Financial Times (FT) newspaper reported.

Since January this year, Zuurbier claims to have collected close to 117,000 misdirected messages, with almost 1,000 arriving on Wednesday alone.

One email that was misdirected to Mali this year included the travel plans for General James McConville, the chief of staff of the US Army, and his delegation for a then-forthcoming visit to Indonesia in May.

He has been trying to get in&nbsp;contact with the US officials to apprise them of the grave error.

The Amsterdam-based entrepreneur approached US officials repeatedly, including through a defence attaché in Mali, a senior adviser to the US national cyber security service, and even White House officials.

In July, he sent a letter to the US writing, “This risk is real and could be exploited by adversaries of the US.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/two-singaporean-lawmakers-resign-after-admitting-to-inappropriate-relationship-616585">Two Singaporean lawmakers resign after admitting to ‘inappropriate relationship’</a>

Till Sunday, the .ML domain was being handled by Zuurbier due to the 10-year contract, which expired on Monday.

<h2>US says aware of situation</h2>

It will revert to Mali’s government, which is closely allied with Russia, and might allow it to gain access to the millions of misdirected emails.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-will-establish-peace-in-ukraine-within-24-hours-of-coming-to-power-616620">Trump says he'll establish peace in Ukraine within 24 hours of coming to power</a>

Responding to the matter, Lt. Commander Tim Gorman, a spokesman for the Pentagon, told FT that the Department of Defence “is aware of this issue and takes all unauthorised disclosures of controlled national security information or controlled unclassified information seriously”.

He further said that emails sent directly from the .mil domain to Malian addresses “are blocked before they leave the .mil domain and the sender is notified that they must validate the email addresses of the intended recipients”.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A mere “typo” led millions of US military emails that contained highly sensitive information to be redirected to Mali, a West African country which is an ally of Russia.

A mere “typo” led millions of US military emails that contained highly sensitive information to be redirected to Mali, a West African country which is an ally of Russia. The confusion seems to have arisen due to the domain name for sending emails. While the US military uses “.MIL” domain, the mails were being sent to “.ML,” the domain for Mali. As a result, sensitive information, including diplomatic documents, tax returns, passwords, and travel details of top officers, were sent erroneously to the Mali government’s official email ID. Happened multiple times But what is concerning is that it has happened multiple times, with the first instance being reported almost a decade ago by Johannes Zuurbier, a Dutch internet entrepreneur who has a contract to manage Mali’s country domain, the Financial Times (FT) newspaper reported. Since January this year, Zuurbier claims to have collected close to 117,000 misdirected messages, with almost 1,000 arriving on Wednesday alone. One email that was misdirected to Mali this year included the travel plans for General James McConville, the chief of staff of the US Army, and his delegation for a then-forthcoming visit to Indonesia in May. He has been trying to get in contact with the US officials to apprise them of the grave error. The Amsterdam-based entrepreneur approached US officials repeatedly, including through a defence attaché in Mali, a senior adviser to the US national cyber security service, and even White House officials. In July, he sent a letter to the US writing, “This risk is real and could be exploited by adversaries of the US.” Also read | Two Singaporean lawmakers resign after admitting to ‘inappropriate relationship’ Till Sunday, the .ML domain was being handled by Zuurbier due to the 10-year contract, which expired on Monday. US says aware of situation It will revert to Mali’s government, which is closely allied with Russia, and might allow it to gain access to the millions of misdirected emails. Also read | Trump says he'll establish peace in Ukraine within 24 hours of coming to power Responding to the matter, Lt. Commander Tim Gorman, a spokesman for the Pentagon, told FT that the Department of Defence “is aware of this issue and takes all unauthorised disclosures of controlled national security information or controlled unclassified information seriously”. He further said that emails sent directly from the .mil domain to Malian addresses “are blocked before they leave the .mil domain and the sender is notified that they must validate the email addresses of the intended recipients”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Thousands of US military emails mistakenly sent to Russian ally Mali due to ‘typo’

Russia, on Monday (July 17), formally notified Ukraine that it will <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-suspends-participation-in-black-sea-grain-deal-says-kremlin-616566">suspend</a> its participation in the Black Sea grain deal, hours before its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-grain-deal-extended-for-two-more-months-turkey-593357">previous extension</a> expired. The safe passage through which Kyiv was able to ship grain via the Black Sea despite being in the midst of a war with Moscow to the parts of the world struggling with hunger will now be suspended which may affect global food security.&nbsp;

<h2>What was the deal about?</h2>

Turkey and the United Nations&nbsp;managed to broker a landmark deal between Russia and Ukraine&nbsp;in July last year, months after Moscow invaded Kyiv&nbsp;on February 24.&nbsp;

The aim of the pact was to alleviate a global food crisis, exacerbated by the Russia-Ukraine war, and allow a safe passage for Ukrainian ships carrying grain to be exported through the Black Sea corridor.&nbsp;

Notably, Ukraine is one of the world’s biggest exporters of food grains, such as wheat and corn, and played a significant role in the UN’s food aid programmes. Therefore, when Russia invaded and blocked Ukrainian ports, prices of food grains soared across parts of the world.&nbsp;

The UN-brokered deal allowed cargo ships&nbsp;from three Ukrainian ports of Odesa, Chornomorsk and Pivdennyi (Yuzhny) to pass through the 310 nautical miles long and three nautical miles wide Black Sea safe passage after being inspected for weapons.&nbsp;

Nearly 33 million metric tonnes of corn, wheat and other grains have been exported by Ukraine under the agreement, reported Reuters, which has been extended <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/black-sea-grain-export-deal-extended-for-120-days-says-ukraine-minister-534980">twice</a> since it was first signed. Kyiv has also contributed 725,200 (2.2 per cent) tonnes to the UN World Food Programme (WFP).

While the Black Sea deal assured that no ships would be attacked entering and leaving the Ukrainian port, a separate agreement also facilitated the movement of Russian food and fertiliser.&nbsp;

<h2>Why did Russia back out of the deal?</h2>

The formal <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-suspends-participation-in-black-sea-grain-deal-616518">suspension</a> comes days after Russian President Vladimir Putin during an interview said “not one” of Moscow’s conditions for the deal to function had been met.&nbsp;

“I want to emphasise that nothing was done, nothing at all. It’s all one-sided,” said Putin. Reportedly, while Moscow’s exports of food grains and fertilisers are not subjected to Western sanctions, Russia has claimed that other restrictions on payments, logistics and insurance have had an indirect effect on its shipments.&nbsp;

"The obligations recorded in the relevant Russia-UN memorandum to remove obstacles to the export of Russian food and fertilisers still remain unfulfilled,” Putin <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-putin-discusses-ukraine-grain-deal-brics-summit-with-south-africas-ramaphosa-616065">told</a> his South African counterpart&nbsp;on Saturday, according to a statement by the Kremlin.&nbsp;

Russia has also claimed that not enough grain is being sent to the poor countries, while the UN has argued that the deal had helped those states by lowering food prices by over 20 per cent across the world. Moscow also wanted ammonia exports through a pipeline leading from Russia to the Ukrainian port of Odesa&nbsp;to resume.&nbsp;

Additionally, one of Russia’s key demands has reportedly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kremlin-main-goal-of-black-sea-grain-deal-has-not-been-met-616298">not been met</a>. Moscow wanted its Russian Agricultural Bank (Rosselkhozbank) to be reconnected to the SWIFT international payments system after it was cut off due to sanctions by the European Union in June 2022.&nbsp;

A report by Reuters&nbsp;said that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, last week, asked Putin to extend the Black Sea grain deal in exchange for the EU connecting a subsidiary of Rosselkhozbank to SWIFT for grain and fertiliser transactions.&nbsp;

The same media report, citing three sources said, officials in the EU were also in the midst of considering reconnecting SWIFT to a subsidiary of the Rosselkhozbank. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric had also confirmed a proposal by the UN chief saying that this was a “major concern expressed by the Russian Federation…”

<h2>Any immediate effects of the suspension?</h2>

According to reports, prices of grains and oilseeds have already risen in response to Russia’s decision and are expected to lead to higher prices for staple foods like bread, pasta, etc, in the upcoming weeks or months.&nbsp;

But the rise is not as significant.&nbsp;“I think there is a market belief that Russia and the EU have large supplies of wheat which can meet world demand in the coming months, with harvests arriving,” a German grains trader told Reuters.&nbsp;

The high costs may also exacerbate economic challenges for several countries and push millions more into poverty or food insecurity. The WFP used to purchase millions of tonnes of grain from Kyiv before the Ukraine war, mostly for African and West Asian countries.&nbsp;

Ukraine exported 16.9 million tonnes of corn and 8.9 million tonnes of wheat, due to the grain deal with Russia. Amid this uncertainty, it was also not immediately clear whether Ukraine will be able to continue exporting grain after the Russian withdrawal from the pact.&nbsp;

Another option could include increasing Ukrainian grain exports through eastern EU countries which have already risen exponentially since the conflict began.

However, there have been logistical challenges, in addition to unrest among farmers who said it has undercut local supplies.&nbsp;Since then the EU has allowed five countries&nbsp;to ban domestic sales of some Ukrainian grains and seeds&nbsp;but allow transit.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine ready to export grains despite Russian exit: Zelensky</h2>

Ukrainian President&nbsp;Volodymyr Zelensky, in response to&nbsp;Russia’s decision, said that Kyiv is&nbsp;prepared to continue grain exports despite Moscow's backing out of the deal.&nbsp; 
 
“Even without the Russian Federation, everything must be done so that we can use this Black Sea corridor. We are not afraid. We have been approached by companies that own ships. They said that they are ready”&nbsp;to continue shipments, Zelensky said&nbsp;as per his&nbsp;spokesperson,&nbsp;Sergiy Nykyforov.&nbsp;

<h2>Is it because of Crimea bridge attack?</h2>

The Kremlin&nbsp;suspension came hours after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-updates-russia-ukraine-war-crimea-bridge-attack-616454">Crimea Bridge</a>, a very crucial and only direct link between the Russian mainland and the Moscow-annexed Crimean peninsula, was attacked.&nbsp;

The bridge is also important for the supply of fuel, food and now weapons to Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014. The attack has killed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-traffic-stopped-on-crimean-bridge-reports-of-blasts-616344">at least two people</a>, a couple and injured their daughter, according to Russian officials.&nbsp;

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters that the decision to not renew the Black Sea grain deal was unrelated to the overnight attack, which he called a “terrorist act” and blamed on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-official-seemingly-claims-responsibility-for-crimea-bridge-blast-613657">Ukraine</a>.&nbsp;

“Unfortunately, the part of these Black Sea agreements concerning Russia has not been implemented so far, so its effect is terminated,” said Peskov. He added, “As soon as the Russian part of the agreements is fulfilled, the Russian side will return to the implementation of this deal, immediately.”&nbsp;

<h2>Putin wants to continue the deal: Erdogan</h2>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-has-agreed-to-extend-black-sea-grain-deal-says-erdogan-615669">Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan</a> said that he believed the Russian president wanted to continue the deal, despite the statement today and hopes talks will progress on the issue after Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov hold talks on Monday.

<h2>Countries react to Russia’s decision</h2>

German government spokesperson Christiane Hoffmann said they will continue to “call on Russia to allow further extension of the grain deal,” adding that the “conflict should not be carried out on the backs of the poorest on this planet.”&nbsp;

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s spokesperson called Russia’s decision “disappointing” and accused Russia of risking global “suffering".&nbsp;Moscow “will be robbing millions of people of access to vital grain,” said the UK.&nbsp;

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen “strongly condemned” Russia’s move and dubbed it “cynical”. She added, “EU is working to ensure food security for the world’s vulnerable.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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Russia, on Monday (July 17), formally notified Ukraine that it will suspend its participation in the Black Sea grain deal, hours before its previous extension expired.

Russia, on Monday (July 17), formally notified Ukraine that it will suspend its participation in the Black Sea grain deal, hours before its previous extension expired. The safe passage through which Kyiv was able to ship grain via the Black Sea despite being in the midst of a war with Moscow to the parts of the world struggling with hunger will now be suspended which may affect global food security. What was the deal about? Turkey and the United Nations managed to broker a landmark deal between Russia and Ukraine in July last year, months after Moscow invaded Kyiv on February 24. The aim of the pact was to alleviate a global food crisis, exacerbated by the Russia-Ukraine war, and allow a safe passage for Ukrainian ships carrying grain to be exported through the Black Sea corridor. Notably, Ukraine is one of the world’s biggest exporters of food grains, such as wheat and corn, and played a significant role in the UN’s food aid programmes. Therefore, when Russia invaded and blocked Ukrainian ports, prices of food grains soared across parts of the world. The UN-brokered deal allowed cargo ships from three Ukrainian ports of Odesa, Chornomorsk and Pivdennyi (Yuzhny) to pass through the 310 nautical miles long and three nautical miles wide Black Sea safe passage after being inspected for weapons. Nearly 33 million metric tonnes of corn, wheat and other grains have been exported by Ukraine under the agreement, reported Reuters, which has been extended twice since it was first signed. Kyiv has also contributed 725,200 (2.2 per cent) tonnes to the UN World Food Programme (WFP). While the Black Sea deal assured that no ships would be attacked entering and leaving the Ukrainian port, a separate agreement also facilitated the movement of Russian food and fertiliser. Why did Russia back out of the deal? The formal suspension comes days after Russian President Vladimir Putin during an interview said “not one” of Moscow’s conditions for the deal to function had been met. “I want to emphasise that nothing was done, nothing at all. It’s all one-sided,” said Putin. Reportedly, while Moscow’s exports of food grains and fertilisers are not subjected to Western sanctions, Russia has claimed that other restrictions on payments, logistics and insurance have had an indirect effect on its shipments. "The obligations recorded in the relevant Russia-UN memorandum to remove obstacles to the export of Russian food and fertilisers still remain unfulfilled,” Putin told his South African counterpart on Saturday, according to a statement by the Kremlin. Russia has also claimed that not enough grain is being sent to the poor countries, while the UN has argued that the deal had helped those states by lowering food prices by over 20 per cent across the world. Moscow also wanted ammonia exports through a pipeline leading from Russia to the Ukrainian port of Odesa to resume. Additionally, one of Russia’s key demands has reportedly not been met. Moscow wanted its Russian Agricultural Bank (Rosselkhozbank) to be reconnected to the SWIFT international payments system after it was cut off due to sanctions by the European Union in June 2022. A report by Reuters said that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, last week, asked Putin to extend the Black Sea grain deal in exchange for the EU connecting a subsidiary of Rosselkhozbank to SWIFT for grain and fertiliser transactions. The same media report, citing three sources said, officials in the EU were also in the midst of considering reconnecting SWIFT to a subsidiary of the Rosselkhozbank. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric had also confirmed a proposal by the UN chief saying that this was a “major concern expressed by the Russian Federation…” Any immediate effects of the suspension? According to reports, prices of grains and oilseeds have already risen in response to Russia’s decision and are expected to lead to higher prices for staple foods like bread, pasta, etc, in the upcoming weeks or months. But the rise is not as significant. “I think there is a market belief that Russia and the EU have large supplies of wheat which can meet world demand in the coming months, with harvests arriving,” a German grains trader told Reuters. The high costs may also exacerbate economic challenges for several countries and push millions more into poverty or food insecurity. The WFP used to purchase millions of tonnes of grain from Kyiv before the Ukraine war, mostly for African and West Asian countries. Ukraine exported 16.9 million tonnes of corn and 8.9 million tonnes of wheat, due to the grain deal with Russia. Amid this uncertainty, it was also not immediately clear whether Ukraine will be able to continue exporting grain after the Russian withdrawal from the pact. Another option could include increasing Ukrainian grain exports through eastern EU countries which have already risen exponentially since the conflict began. However, there have been logistical challenges, in addition to unrest among farmers who said it has undercut local supplies. Since then the EU has allowed five countries to ban domestic sales of some Ukrainian grains and seeds but allow transit. Ukraine ready to export grains despite Russian exit: Zelensky Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in response to Russia’s decision, said that Kyiv is prepared to continue grain exports despite Moscow's backing out of the deal. “Even without the Russian Federation, everything must be done so that we can use this Black Sea corridor. We are not afraid. We have been approached by companies that own ships. They said that they are ready” to continue shipments, Zelensky said as per his spokesperson, Sergiy Nykyforov. Is it because of Crimea bridge attack? The Kremlin suspension came hours after the Crimea Bridge, a very crucial and only direct link between the Russian mainland and the Moscow-annexed Crimean peninsula, was attacked. The bridge is also important for the supply of fuel, food and now weapons to Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014. The attack has killed at least two people, a couple and injured their daughter, according to Russian officials. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters that the decision to not renew the Black Sea grain deal was unrelated to the overnight attack, which he called a “terrorist act” and blamed on Ukraine. “Unfortunately, the part of these Black Sea agreements concerning Russia has not been implemented so far, so its effect is terminated,” said Peskov. He added, “As soon as the Russian part of the agreements is fulfilled, the Russian side will return to the implementation of this deal, immediately.” Putin wants to continue the deal: Erdogan Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said that he believed the Russian president wanted to continue the deal, despite the statement today and hopes talks will progress on the issue after Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov hold talks on Monday. Countries react to Russia’s decision German government spokesperson Christiane Hoffmann said they will continue to “call on Russia to allow further extension of the grain deal,” adding that the “conflict should not be carried out on the backs of the poorest on this planet.” UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s spokesperson called Russia’s decision “disappointing” and accused Russia of risking global “suffering". Moscow “will be robbing millions of people of access to vital grain,” said the UK. EU chief Ursula von der Leyen “strongly condemned” Russia’s move and dubbed it “cynical”. She added, “EU is working to ensure food security for the world’s vulnerable.” (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.

Explained | Russia formally backs out of Black Sea grain deal. What happens now?

A bizarre image of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-military-raided-wagner-bases-in-syria-detained-fighters-and-leaders-reports-611461">Wagner</a> Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin has been making rounds of several Telegram channels and now on Twitter which shows the mercenary group’s boss half-naked sitting inside a tent. The undated image was reportedly first shared by a Wager-affiliated Telegram channel.&nbsp;

<h2>About the image</h2>

The image shows the Russian mercenary group’s boss in what appeared to be a field tent which shows Prigozhin waving to the camera while sitting upright and seemingly unfazed by his state of undress. The Wagner chief was also seen only wearing a beige T-shirt and his underwear.&nbsp; 
 
WION cannot verify the authenticity of the image.

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Russian media publish a reportedly recent photo of Prigozhin in a field tent in (allegedly) Belarus. <a href="https://t.co/MNXSBhffui">pic.twitter.com/MNXSBhffui</a>
— Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gerashchenko_en/status/1679783921939087360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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This is the first image of the Wagner chief seen since his June 24 announcement of a coup against the Kremlin amid growing discontent with the top Russian defence officials.

<h2>Is Wagner chief in Belarus?</h2>

It was not immediately clear who or why the image was shared but reports speculate it is part of an apparent campaign to undermine and embarrass the once-feared mercenary group’s chief.&nbsp;

A Belarusian Gayun Monitoring Group speculates that the photograph may have been taken, earlier this week, in Osipovichi, Belarus, where Prigozhin was exiled after his aborted mutiny in Moscow.&nbsp;

A report by The Mirror, citing the group, also said that the image might have been taken on July 12, a day after Gayun reported that a plane belonging to Prigozhin flew to Belarus for the third time. Subsequently, two helicopters flew to Osipovichi, reported the monitoring group, according to the British media report.&nbsp;

However, the next day, Wagner chief’s plane flew back to St. Petersburg in Russia which suggests. that Prigozhin was there to check the new camp.&nbsp;

It was around the time that image was first posted, a report by Financial Times, on Friday, citing analysts and people close to Prigozhin suggested that he might have been granted some time to wrap up his business in Russia before settling in Belarus.&nbsp;

It was also on July 14, that the Kremlin said it will review the legal status of Wagner and similar groups after Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the aborted mutiny by the Russian mercenary group last month <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagners-legal-status-to-be-reviewed-says-kremlin-mercenaries-train-troops-in-belarus-615770">does not legally “exist”</a> since there is no Russian law about private military companies.

During the interview with Kommersant newspaper, the Russian president also confirmed that he had met Prigozhin, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-met-wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-five-days-after-failed-coup-attempt-kremlin-613881">on June 29</a> and then named the “real” Wagner leader as “Grey Hair,” the military callsign for Andrei Troshev, a former Russian army colonel.&nbsp;

<h2>Prigozhin’s many disguises</h2>

The latest image also comes after six photos of the Wagner chief were leaked to the media, last week, where Prigozhin was seen in a series of bizarre disguises and ill-fitting wigs and beards.&nbsp; 
 
WION cannot verify the authenticity of the image.

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Prigozhin's "absurd disguises" are just incredible <a href="https://t.co/ojd8RKa3Kf">pic.twitter.com/ojd8RKa3Kf</a>
— Kevin Klyman (@kevin_klyman) <a href="https://twitter.com/kevin_klyman/status/1677050597541924864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Russian media outlets also showed images of Prigozhin’s home in St Petersburg being raided where officials reportedly found a number of wigs and photographs of Prigozhin dressed in several disguises. 
 
 
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A bizarre image of Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin has been making rounds of several Telegram channels and now on Twitter which shows the mercenary group’s boss half-naked sitting inside a tent.

A bizarre image of Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin has been making rounds of several Telegram channels and now on Twitter which shows the mercenary group’s boss half-naked sitting inside a tent. The undated image was reportedly first shared by a Wager-affiliated Telegram channel. About the image The image shows the Russian mercenary group’s boss in what appeared to be a field tent which shows Prigozhin waving to the camera while sitting upright and seemingly unfazed by his state of undress. The Wagner chief was also seen only wearing a beige T-shirt and his underwear. WION cannot verify the authenticity of the image. Russian media publish a reportedly recent photo of Prigozhin in a field tent in (allegedly) Belarus. pic.twitter.com/MNXSBhffui — Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) July 14, 2023 × This is the first image of the Wagner chief seen since his June 24 announcement of a coup against the Kremlin amid growing discontent with the top Russian defence officials. Is Wagner chief in Belarus? It was not immediately clear who or why the image was shared but reports speculate it is part of an apparent campaign to undermine and embarrass the once-feared mercenary group’s chief. A Belarusian Gayun Monitoring Group speculates that the photograph may have been taken, earlier this week, in Osipovichi, Belarus, where Prigozhin was exiled after his aborted mutiny in Moscow. A report by The Mirror, citing the group, also said that the image might have been taken on July 12, a day after Gayun reported that a plane belonging to Prigozhin flew to Belarus for the third time. Subsequently, two helicopters flew to Osipovichi, reported the monitoring group, according to the British media report. However, the next day, Wagner chief’s plane flew back to St. Petersburg in Russia which suggests. that Prigozhin was there to check the new camp. It was around the time that image was first posted, a report by Financial Times, on Friday, citing analysts and people close to Prigozhin suggested that he might have been granted some time to wrap up his business in Russia before settling in Belarus. It was also on July 14, that the Kremlin said it will review the legal status of Wagner and similar groups after Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the aborted mutiny by the Russian mercenary group last month does not legally “exist” since there is no Russian law about private military companies. During the interview with Kommersant newspaper, the Russian president also confirmed that he had met Prigozhin, on June 29 and then named the “real” Wagner leader as “Grey Hair,” the military callsign for Andrei Troshev, a former Russian army colonel. Prigozhin’s many disguises The latest image also comes after six photos of the Wagner chief were leaked to the media, last week, where Prigozhin was seen in a series of bizarre disguises and ill-fitting wigs and beards. WION cannot verify the authenticity of the image. Prigozhin's "absurd disguises" are just incredible pic.twitter.com/ojd8RKa3Kf — Kevin Klyman (@kevin_klyman) July 6, 2023 × Russian media outlets also showed images of Prigozhin’s home in St Petersburg being raided where officials reportedly found a number of wigs and photographs of Prigozhin dressed in several disguises. 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.

Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin appears ‘half-naked’ in bizarre photo since aborted mutiny: Reports

India is weighing in on the plans of selling BrahMos missiles to Russia, according to a recent report. This move would be a probable switch of positions between the two strategic allies who had jointly created the powerful weapon.

Atul Dinkar Rane, BrahMos Aerospace CEO and managing director, in a Q&amp;A with The Week, said that his organisation was continuously looking at Russia as a probable market for the air-launched BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, asserting that Russia currently has no equivalent in service.

"The Russian P800 Onyx missile is the precursor of the BrahMos. The BrahMos is a much better version. The P800 was produced in Russia, it still is. They moved from P800 to another area of work and they are happy. We have been continuously looking at Russia as a market for the BrahMos," he said.

“If they had purchased it [before the Ukraine war], they would have had a lot of things to use in the current situation,” Rane said. “After the ongoing situation in Europe ends, we might get some orders from Russia, especially for the air-launched BrahMos,” he added.

Russia could probably use the BrahMos like its P-800 Onyx projectile, which is the Soviet-era precursor of BrahMos. Although the &nbsp;P-800 Onyx is created as an anti-ship missile, it has been employed against ground marks in Ukraine as well as Syria.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-putin-discusses-ukraine-grain-deal-brics-summit-with-south-africas-ramaphosa-616065">Putin discusses Ukraine grain deal, BRICS summit with South Africa’s Ramaphosa</a>

<h2>Russia reimporting parts for tanks and missiles previously sold to foreign buyers in Asia</h2>

As per a report published by The Moscow Times in the month of June, citing Nikkei Asia, Russia had reportedly started to buy back parts for projectiles and tanks that it had earlier sold to India and Myanmar in order to improve its equipment and older weapons that were supposed to be deployed for use in the war against Ukraine.

The Russian defence industry manufacturers were reimporting equipment that they had produced and previously exported to buyers in Asia, according to the report.

Uralvagonzavod, a machine industry firm making tanks for the Russian armed forces, imported nearly $24 million worth of its own products from Myanmar in 2022.

The equipment that was reimported, included around 6,000 sighting telescopes and nearly 200 cameras for installation in tanks, which as per analysts could be used to modernise Russia’s old T-72 tanks currently sitting in storage, according to Nikkei Asia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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India is weighing in on the plans of selling BrahMos missiles to Russia, according to a recent report. This move would be a probable switch of positions between the two strategic allies who had jointly created the powerful weapon.

India is weighing in on the plans of selling BrahMos missiles to Russia, according to a recent report. This move would be a probable switch of positions between the two strategic allies who had jointly created the powerful weapon. Atul Dinkar Rane, BrahMos Aerospace CEO and managing director, in a Q&A with The Week, said that his organisation was continuously looking at Russia as a probable market for the air-launched BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, asserting that Russia currently has no equivalent in service. "The Russian P800 Onyx missile is the precursor of the BrahMos. The BrahMos is a much better version. The P800 was produced in Russia, it still is. They moved from P800 to another area of work and they are happy. We have been continuously looking at Russia as a market for the BrahMos," he said. “If they had purchased it [before the Ukraine war], they would have had a lot of things to use in the current situation,” Rane said. “After the ongoing situation in Europe ends, we might get some orders from Russia, especially for the air-launched BrahMos,” he added. Russia could probably use the BrahMos like its P-800 Onyx projectile, which is the Soviet-era precursor of BrahMos. Although the P-800 Onyx is created as an anti-ship missile, it has been employed against ground marks in Ukraine as well as Syria. Also read: Putin discusses Ukraine grain deal, BRICS summit with South Africa’s Ramaphosa Russia reimporting parts for tanks and missiles previously sold to foreign buyers in Asia As per a report published by The Moscow Times in the month of June, citing Nikkei Asia, Russia had reportedly started to buy back parts for projectiles and tanks that it had earlier sold to India and Myanmar in order to improve its equipment and older weapons that were supposed to be deployed for use in the war against Ukraine. The Russian defence industry manufacturers were reimporting equipment that they had produced and previously exported to buyers in Asia, according to the report. Uralvagonzavod, a machine industry firm making tanks for the Russian armed forces, imported nearly $24 million worth of its own products from Myanmar in 2022. The equipment that was reimported, included around 6,000 sighting telescopes and nearly 200 cameras for installation in tanks, which as per analysts could be used to modernise Russia’s old T-72 tanks currently sitting in storage, according to Nikkei Asia. (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.

India considers selling BrahMos missiles to Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone call with his South African counterpart Cyril Ramaphosa where the two leaders discussed the Black Sea grain deal and the BRICS summit which is to be hosted in Johannesburg next month, said the Kremlin, on Saturday (July 15). The Ukraine grain deal is set to expire on Monday while the United Nations is still waiting for an answer from Russia about its extension.&nbsp;

<h2>Will Putin be arrested if he attends BRICS summit?</h2>

The statement by the Kremlin did not mention the details of the conversation but said that Ramaphosa had briefed Putin about preparations for the upcoming BRICS summit. Notably, Putin’s possible attendance has become a point of contention between the two countries.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant against the Russian president and accused him of war crimes after he reportedly deported Ukrainian children to Russia.&nbsp;

Russia has since dismissed the order as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-will-putin-be-arrested-heres-what-happened-to-earlier-icc-arrest-warrant-599686">“outrageous”</a> and legally void since Moscow is not an ICC member. On the other hand, South Africa, which is a member state of the world court, would be obligated to arrest Putin if he were to set foot on their territory. However, his presence is yet to be officially confirmed by the Kremlin.

South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile, in an interview with the weekly newspaper Mail &amp; Guardian, said Russia rejected their request to not send Putin.&nbsp;

According to the media report, South Africa had suggested Moscow send Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to lead Russia’s delegation on August 22-24, instead of Putin.&nbsp;

Additionally, BRICS members, Brazil, India, China and South Africa opposed holding the summit virtually, said Mashatile.

<h2>Russia on the Black Sea grain deal</h2>

Moscow is yet to make a decision about the extension of the grain deal which expires on Monday and has enabled Ukraine to export grain from its Black Sea ports amid its conflict with Russia.&nbsp;

On Thursday, the Russian president said that “not one” of Moscow’s conditions for the deal to function had been met. “I want to emphasise that nothing was done, nothing at all. It’s all one-sided,” Putin said in a televised interview, adding: “We will think about what to do, we have a few more days.”

"Vladimir Putin stressed that the obligations recorded in the relevant Russia-UN memorandum to remove obstacles to the export of Russian food and fertilizers still remain unfulfilled," Putin told&nbsp;Ramaphosa,&nbsp;according to a Kremlin statement.&nbsp; 
 
The call was also later confirmed by the&nbsp;South African presidency who said that the call with the Russian president took place following a call with the UN chief and&nbsp;Ukrainian&nbsp;President Volodymyr Zelensky.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Recent statements have indicated that Russia might pull out of the UN-brokered deal struck a year ago. The UN spokesperson, on Friday, said Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, is still waiting for an answer on his proposal to extend the grain deal.&nbsp;

“Discussions are being had, WhatsApp messages are being sent, Signal messages are being sent and exchanged. We’re also waiting for a response to the letter,” said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric.&nbsp;

<h2>Turkey claims Putin has agreed to extend the grain deal</h2>

While the UN was still waiting for an answer from Putin, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, on Friday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-has-agreed-to-extend-black-sea-grain-deal-says-erdogan-615669">claimed</a> his Russian counterpart has agreed to extend the Black Sea grain deal.&nbsp;

“We are preparing to welcome Putin in August and we agree on the extension of the Black Sea grain corridor,” Erdogan told reporters.&nbsp; 
 
When asked about the Turkish president's claims, Kremlin spokesperson&nbsp;Dmitry Peskov said, "There is no statement about this from the Russian side."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone call with his South African counterpart Cyril Ramaphosa where the two leaders discussed the Black Sea grain deal and the BRICS summit which is to be hosted in Johannesburg next month, said the Kremlin, on Saturday (July 15).

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone call with his South African counterpart Cyril Ramaphosa where the two leaders discussed the Black Sea grain deal and the BRICS summit which is to be hosted in Johannesburg next month, said the Kremlin, on Saturday (July 15). The Ukraine grain deal is set to expire on Monday while the United Nations is still waiting for an answer from Russia about its extension. Will Putin be arrested if he attends BRICS summit? The statement by the Kremlin did not mention the details of the conversation but said that Ramaphosa had briefed Putin about preparations for the upcoming BRICS summit. Notably, Putin’s possible attendance has become a point of contention between the two countries. Earlier this year, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant against the Russian president and accused him of war crimes after he reportedly deported Ukrainian children to Russia. Russia has since dismissed the order as “outrageous” and legally void since Moscow is not an ICC member. On the other hand, South Africa, which is a member state of the world court, would be obligated to arrest Putin if he were to set foot on their territory. However, his presence is yet to be officially confirmed by the Kremlin. South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile, in an interview with the weekly newspaper Mail & Guardian, said Russia rejected their request to not send Putin. According to the media report, South Africa had suggested Moscow send Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to lead Russia’s delegation on August 22-24, instead of Putin. Additionally, BRICS members, Brazil, India, China and South Africa opposed holding the summit virtually, said Mashatile. Russia on the Black Sea grain deal Moscow is yet to make a decision about the extension of the grain deal which expires on Monday and has enabled Ukraine to export grain from its Black Sea ports amid its conflict with Russia. On Thursday, the Russian president said that “not one” of Moscow’s conditions for the deal to function had been met. “I want to emphasise that nothing was done, nothing at all. It’s all one-sided,” Putin said in a televised interview, adding: “We will think about what to do, we have a few more days.” "Vladimir Putin stressed that the obligations recorded in the relevant Russia-UN memorandum to remove obstacles to the export of Russian food and fertilizers still remain unfulfilled," Putin told Ramaphosa, according to a Kremlin statement. The call was also later confirmed by the South African presidency who said that the call with the Russian president took place following a call with the UN chief and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Recent statements have indicated that Russia might pull out of the UN-brokered deal struck a year ago. The UN spokesperson, on Friday, said Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, is still waiting for an answer on his proposal to extend the grain deal. “Discussions are being had, WhatsApp messages are being sent, Signal messages are being sent and exchanged. We’re also waiting for a response to the letter,” said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric. Turkey claims Putin has agreed to extend the grain deal While the UN was still waiting for an answer from Putin, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, on Friday claimed his Russian counterpart has agreed to extend the Black Sea grain deal. “We are preparing to welcome Putin in August and we agree on the extension of the Black Sea grain corridor,” Erdogan told reporters. When asked about the Turkish president's claims, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, "There is no statement about this from the Russian side." (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 discusses Ukraine grain deal, BRICS summit with South Africa’s Ramaphosa

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, on Saturday (July 15) made an unannounced visit to Ukraine for a meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky and pledged additional military supplies and humanitarian aid to the war-torn country. Yoon also visited the Ukrainian cities of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bucha-killings-are-fake-propaganda-says-putins-ally-dmitry-medvedev-468582">Bucha</a> and Irpin.

<h2>South Korean president’s sudden visit</h2>

According to the South Korean president’s office, the visit before a summit with Zelensky was an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-president-yeol-makes-sudden-ukraine-visit-to-meet-zelensky-615960">unannounced one</a>. “The president first toured the Bucha city massacre site near the capital Kyiv and the city of Irpin, where missile attacks were concentrated on civilian residential areas,” said his office. &nbsp;

It added, “President Yoon will visit a memorial for the war dead to lay a wreath, and hold a summit meeting with President Zelensky.” The surprise visit comes after Yoon attended the NATO summit in Lithuania and visited Poland this week.&nbsp;

The visit is seen as significant as very few Asian leaders have visited Ukraine, said the Korea chair at the Brussels School of Governance research organisation, Ramon Pacheco.&nbsp;

“If he’s going it’s because Zelensky allowed him to go, because he feels Korea is doing enough to warrant it,” said Pardo, as quoted by Reuters, adding that it might suggest that South Korea might be offering more support behind the scenes.

It remains to be seen if the visit will change South Korea’s long-standing policy of not giving weapons to zones which are involved in conflict.&nbsp;

A United States ally and the world’s 9th biggest arms exporter, as per the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), South Korea due to its policies has only provided Ukraine with aid and non-lethal military supplies but no weapons.

<h2>Yoon pledges more aid, to help with reconstruction</h2>

South Korea plans to provide "a larger scale of military supplies" to Ukraine this year. Notably, last year Seoul&nbsp;provided materials such as helmets and bullet-proof vests. South Korea will also increase humanitarian aid to Kyiv from $100 million last year to $150 million, in 2023.&nbsp;

It will also help rebuild Ukraine by cooperating with Kyiv on infrastructure construction backed by concessionary loans. Yoon also spoke about how Seoul has supplied safety equipment and humanitarian aid that Ukraine needs, since two months ago, including mine detectors.

South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, in a statement, on Friday said South Korean companies and entities in Ukraine and in other countries signed agreements to help with reconstruction.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Zelensky thanked Yoon for “the meaningful talks” and “strong support”. The Ukrainian president spoke about how the two leaders discussed “everything that is important for the normal and safe life of people".

He also thanked the South Korean president “for your new initiatives to provide financial, technical and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine” without going into detail.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, on Saturday (July 15) made an unannounced visit to Ukraine for a meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky and pledged additional military supplies and humanitarian aid to the war-torn country.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, on Saturday (July 15) made an unannounced visit to Ukraine for a meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky and pledged additional military supplies and humanitarian aid to the war-torn country. Yoon also visited the Ukrainian cities of Bucha and Irpin. South Korean president’s sudden visit According to the South Korean president’s office, the visit before a summit with Zelensky was an unannounced one. “The president first toured the Bucha city massacre site near the capital Kyiv and the city of Irpin, where missile attacks were concentrated on civilian residential areas,” said his office. It added, “President Yoon will visit a memorial for the war dead to lay a wreath, and hold a summit meeting with President Zelensky.” The surprise visit comes after Yoon attended the NATO summit in Lithuania and visited Poland this week. The visit is seen as significant as very few Asian leaders have visited Ukraine, said the Korea chair at the Brussels School of Governance research organisation, Ramon Pacheco. “If he’s going it’s because Zelensky allowed him to go, because he feels Korea is doing enough to warrant it,” said Pardo, as quoted by Reuters, adding that it might suggest that South Korea might be offering more support behind the scenes. It remains to be seen if the visit will change South Korea’s long-standing policy of not giving weapons to zones which are involved in conflict. A United States ally and the world’s 9th biggest arms exporter, as per the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), South Korea due to its policies has only provided Ukraine with aid and non-lethal military supplies but no weapons. Yoon pledges more aid, to help with reconstruction South Korea plans to provide "a larger scale of military supplies" to Ukraine this year. Notably, last year Seoul provided materials such as helmets and bullet-proof vests. South Korea will also increase humanitarian aid to Kyiv from $100 million last year to $150 million, in 2023. It will also help rebuild Ukraine by cooperating with Kyiv on infrastructure construction backed by concessionary loans. Yoon also spoke about how Seoul has supplied safety equipment and humanitarian aid that Ukraine needs, since two months ago, including mine detectors. South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, in a statement, on Friday said South Korean companies and entities in Ukraine and in other countries signed agreements to help with reconstruction. Meanwhile, Zelensky thanked Yoon for “the meaningful talks” and “strong support”. The Ukrainian president spoke about how the two leaders discussed “everything that is important for the normal and safe life of people". He also thanked the South Korean president “for your new initiatives to provide financial, technical and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine” without going into detail. (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.

South Korea to provide 'larger scale of military supplies', aid to Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that Russia has been putting all its resources into a campaign which is aimed at halting Kyiv's troops from taking forth the counter-offensive. The statement came at a time when the top general reported about Kyiv's new progress on the southern front. 
 
However, Ukrainian military analysts have stated that things have been difficult for Ukrainian forces as they make efforts to advance southward. 
 
A counter-offensive was launched by Ukraine to re-capture swathes of land in southern and eastern Ukraine which were earlier captured by Russian forces after they invaded Kyiv in February 2022.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-it-advanced-nearly-2-km-on-southern-front-this-week-downed-16-drone-attacks-overnight-615689">Ukraine says it advanced nearly 2 km on southern front this week; downed 16 drones overnight</a>

The counter-offensive has been aiming at capturing villages in the southeast as part of the drive towards areas near the eastern city of Bakhmut and the Sea of Azov, which were captured in May by Russian forces after months of battles. 
 
Meanwhile, Russia has claimed that its forces have repelled attacks by Ukrainian forces in the eastern Donetsk region, which includes regions around Bakhmut. 
 
"We must all understand very clearly, as clearly as possible, that Russian forces in our southern and eastern lands are doing everything they can in order to stop our soldiers," said Zelensky in his nightly video address, after he held a meeting with top commanders on Friday. "And every thousand metres we advance, every success of every combat brigade deserves our gratitude,” he added.

<h2>Russian forces claim to repel 16 Ukrainian attacks</h2>

After the meeting, Commander of Ukrainian forces in the south General Oleksander Tarnavskyi said that his troops were "systematically moving the enemy out of their positions". Taking to Telegram, he wrote that in the past 24 hours, enemy losses were equivalent to at least 200.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia's Wagner mercenary group trains soldiers in Belarus

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"In the south, the situation is very difficult in advancing towards Berdiansk," said military analyst Serhiy Hrabskyi, while referring to a port on the Sea of Azov in his talks with Ukrainian NV radio. Ukrainian forces have been aiming to cut off a land bridge which was established by Russian forces with the annexed Crimean peninsula. 
 
"They are moving on the village of Robotyne. The enemy is offering resistance to stop our advance southward,” he added. In its daily report, the defence ministry of Russia stated that 16 Ukrainian attacks were repelled by the forces in the eastern front which included near the long-contested town of Maryinka and in Klishchiivka, a strategic village on southern fringe of Bakhmut.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that Russia has been putting all its resources into a campaign which is aimed at halting Kyiv's troops from taking forth the counter-offensive.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that Russia has been putting all its resources into a campaign which is aimed at halting Kyiv's troops from taking forth the counter-offensive. The statement came at a time when the top general reported about Kyiv's new progress on the southern front. However, Ukrainian military analysts have stated that things have been difficult for Ukrainian forces as they make efforts to advance southward. A counter-offensive was launched by Ukraine to re-capture swathes of land in southern and eastern Ukraine which were earlier captured by Russian forces after they invaded Kyiv in February 2022. ALSO READ | Ukraine says it advanced nearly 2 km on southern front this week; downed 16 drones overnight The counter-offensive has been aiming at capturing villages in the southeast as part of the drive towards areas near the eastern city of Bakhmut and the Sea of Azov, which were captured in May by Russian forces after months of battles. Meanwhile, Russia has claimed that its forces have repelled attacks by Ukrainian forces in the eastern Donetsk region, which includes regions around Bakhmut. "We must all understand very clearly, as clearly as possible, that Russian forces in our southern and eastern lands are doing everything they can in order to stop our soldiers," said Zelensky in his nightly video address, after he held a meeting with top commanders on Friday. "And every thousand metres we advance, every success of every combat brigade deserves our gratitude,” he added. Russian forces claim to repel 16 Ukrainian attacks After the meeting, Commander of Ukrainian forces in the south General Oleksander Tarnavskyi said that his troops were "systematically moving the enemy out of their positions". Taking to Telegram, he wrote that in the past 24 hours, enemy losses were equivalent to at least 200. WATCH | Russia's Wagner mercenary group trains soldiers in Belarus "In the south, the situation is very difficult in advancing towards Berdiansk," said military analyst Serhiy Hrabskyi, while referring to a port on the Sea of Azov in his talks with Ukrainian NV radio. Ukrainian forces have been aiming to cut off a land bridge which was established by Russian forces with the annexed Crimean peninsula. "They are moving on the village of Robotyne. The enemy is offering resistance to stop our advance southward,” he added. In its daily report, the defence ministry of Russia stated that 16 Ukrainian attacks were repelled by the forces in the eastern front which included near the long-contested town of Maryinka and in Klishchiivka, a strategic village on southern fringe of Bakhmut. (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 throwing all its resources to halt Ukraine's troops on counteroffensive, says Zelensky

The Kremlin, on Friday (July 14) said that it will review the legal status of the private Wagner mercenary group after Russian President Vladimir Putin argued that it had no legal basis. Meanwhile, Wagner group’s fighters who were reported to be in Belarus after their chief’s aborted mutiny in Moscow, were shown training soldiers southeast of Minsk. &nbsp;

<h2>What did the Kremlin say?</h2>

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that the legal status of groups like Wagner is “rather complicated”. This comes a day after Putin told Kommersant newspaper that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-had-nothing-to-do-with-wagners-aborted-russia-mutiny-us-president-biden-608976">aborted mutiny</a> by the Russian mercenary group last month does not legally “exist” since there is no Russian law about private military companies.

During the press briefing, Peskov also spoke about how, given the complication of their legal status, there is a need to study and consider the issue. When asked about the possibility of new legislation about the status of private military companies, the Kremlin spokesperson said, “This question will at least be under consideration.”&nbsp;

On June 24, Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin announced a coup against the Kremlin amid growing discontent with the top Russian defence officials. The group’s fighters <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-global-leaders-are-reacting-on-rebellion-in-southern-russian-city-of-rostov-on-don-608271">took control of Rostov-on-Don</a> but did not proceed further saying that they wanted to avoid “shedding Russian blood”.&nbsp;

The fighters, including their chief who has not been seen in public since, also agreed to live in exile in Belarus. Putin also told the Kommersant he offered the Wagner group to continue fighting for Russia but suggested Prigozhin be removed and the group operate under a different commander.&nbsp;

This week, the Russian defence ministry said that Wagner was in the midst of completing the transfer of its weapons to the regular army as a part of the deal with the Kremlin which ended the mutiny.&nbsp;

<h2>Wagner fighters in Belarus</h2>

In what is being seen as a first indication that at least a part of the deal with Russia to end the mutiny might be implemented, Belarus, said their soldiers are being trained by the group’s fighters at a military range.&nbsp;

Two sources close to the fighters told Reuters on condition of anonymity that some mercenaries have been seen since at least Tuesday. This comes as part of a Kremlin-struck deal under which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prigozhin-posts-first-message-since-mutiny-says-march-not-aimed-at-overthrowing-government-608952">Prigozhin</a> stood down, and agreed to move to Belarus and in exchange Russia dropped mutiny charges against them.&nbsp;

So far, there had been no signs of Wagner fighters in Belarus. However, the Belarusian defence ministry’s television channel aired footage and said, “Wagner fighters acted as instructors in a number of military disciplines.” The ministry released a video showing what it said was at a military range near the town of Osipovichi.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The Kremlin, on Friday (July 14) said that it will review the legal status of the private Wagner mercenary group after Russian President Vladimir Putin argued that it had no legal basis.

The Kremlin, on Friday (July 14) said that it will review the legal status of the private Wagner mercenary group after Russian President Vladimir Putin argued that it had no legal basis. Meanwhile, Wagner group’s fighters who were reported to be in Belarus after their chief’s aborted mutiny in Moscow, were shown training soldiers southeast of Minsk. What did the Kremlin say? Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that the legal status of groups like Wagner is “rather complicated”. This comes a day after Putin told Kommersant newspaper that the aborted mutiny by the Russian mercenary group last month does not legally “exist” since there is no Russian law about private military companies. During the press briefing, Peskov also spoke about how, given the complication of their legal status, there is a need to study and consider the issue. When asked about the possibility of new legislation about the status of private military companies, the Kremlin spokesperson said, “This question will at least be under consideration.” On June 24, Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin announced a coup against the Kremlin amid growing discontent with the top Russian defence officials. The group’s fighters took control of Rostov-on-Don but did not proceed further saying that they wanted to avoid “shedding Russian blood”. The fighters, including their chief who has not been seen in public since, also agreed to live in exile in Belarus. Putin also told the Kommersant he offered the Wagner group to continue fighting for Russia but suggested Prigozhin be removed and the group operate under a different commander. This week, the Russian defence ministry said that Wagner was in the midst of completing the transfer of its weapons to the regular army as a part of the deal with the Kremlin which ended the mutiny. Wagner fighters in Belarus In what is being seen as a first indication that at least a part of the deal with Russia to end the mutiny might be implemented, Belarus, said their soldiers are being trained by the group’s fighters at a military range. Two sources close to the fighters told Reuters on condition of anonymity that some mercenaries have been seen since at least Tuesday. This comes as part of a Kremlin-struck deal under which Prigozhin stood down, and agreed to move to Belarus and in exchange Russia dropped mutiny charges against them. So far, there had been no signs of Wagner fighters in Belarus. However, the Belarusian defence ministry’s television channel aired footage and said, “Wagner fighters acted as instructors in a number of military disciplines.” The ministry released a video showing what it said was at a military range near the town of Osipovichi. (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.

Wagner’s legal status to be reviewed, says Kremlin; mercenaries train troops in Belarus

Ukraine received delivery of cluster bombs sent by the United States.The warring nation, however, pledged to use them only to disrupt concentrations of enemy soldiers. 
 
Cluster munitions remain banned in more than 100 nations. Russia, Ukraine and the United States have not signed the Convention on Cluster Munitions, which bans stockpiling, production, use and transfer of the weapons

 
Southern military district or Tavria's spokesperson Valeryi Shershen on Thursday (July 13) confirmed his commander's announcement that the weapons were delivered a week after the US confirmed it would be providing cluster bombs to Ukraine as part of an $800-million security package. Their arrival was also announced by the Pentagon. 
 
The shipment of cluster munitions was denounced by Moscow. On Thursday, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu threatened that Russia may opt to deploy similar weaponry if it faces their use.

Ukrainian officials stated that the deployment of cluster bombs is justified in view of the mining of vast expanse of lands which Russia has seized.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-warns-of-using-similar-weapons-if-us-provides-cluster-bombs-to-ukraine-614506">Russia warns of using 'similar weapons' if US provides cluster bombs to Ukraine</a>

"This will further demotivate Russian occupying forces and fundamentally change things in favour of the Ukrainian armed forces," Shershen said while speaking to US-funded Radio Liberty.

After more than 500 days of ongoing war with Russia, Ukraine started a counter-offensive which focused on capturing many villages in the southeast and reclaiming areas near the eastern city of Bakhmut, which was captured in May by Russian forces after months of fighting. 
 
Cluster bombs to be used 'within legal framework'

Shershen said that Ukraine will be using the cluster bombs strictly within the legal framework, "only for the de-occupation of our territories.

"They will not be used on Russian territory...They will be used only in areas where Russian military forces are concentrated in order to break through enemy defences,” he added. 
 
The assurances of Ukraine regarding cluster munitions were restated by President Volodymyr Zelensky during a NATO summit on Wednesday. Till now, both countries have accused each other of using cluster bombs in the war that started after Russia's invasion in February 2022.

WATCH |&nbsp;US sends cluster munitions to Ukraine despite global opposition

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Human Rights Watch has also accused both Kyiv and Moscow of using cluster munitions.

 
(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine received delivery of cluster bombs sent by the United States.The warring nation, however, pledged to use them only to disrupt concentrations of enemy soldiers.

Ukraine received delivery of cluster bombs sent by the United States.The warring nation, however, pledged to use them only to disrupt concentrations of enemy soldiers. Cluster munitions remain banned in more than 100 nations. Russia, Ukraine and the United States have not signed the Convention on Cluster Munitions, which bans stockpiling, production, use and transfer of the weapons Southern military district or Tavria's spokesperson Valeryi Shershen on Thursday (July 13) confirmed his commander's announcement that the weapons were delivered a week after the US confirmed it would be providing cluster bombs to Ukraine as part of an $800-million security package. Their arrival was also announced by the Pentagon. The shipment of cluster munitions was denounced by Moscow. On Thursday, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu threatened that Russia may opt to deploy similar weaponry if it faces their use. Ukrainian officials stated that the deployment of cluster bombs is justified in view of the mining of vast expanse of lands which Russia has seized. ALSO READ | Russia warns of using 'similar weapons' if US provides cluster bombs to Ukraine "This will further demotivate Russian occupying forces and fundamentally change things in favour of the Ukrainian armed forces," Shershen said while speaking to US-funded Radio Liberty. After more than 500 days of ongoing war with Russia, Ukraine started a counter-offensive which focused on capturing many villages in the southeast and reclaiming areas near the eastern city of Bakhmut, which was captured in May by Russian forces after months of fighting. Cluster bombs to be used 'within legal framework' Shershen said that Ukraine will be using the cluster bombs strictly within the legal framework, "only for the de-occupation of our territories. "They will not be used on Russian territory...They will be used only in areas where Russian military forces are concentrated in order to break through enemy defences,” he added. The assurances of Ukraine regarding cluster munitions were restated by President Volodymyr Zelensky during a NATO summit on Wednesday. Till now, both countries have accused each other of using cluster bombs in the war that started after Russia's invasion in February 2022. WATCH | US sends cluster munitions to Ukraine despite global opposition Human Rights Watch has also accused both Kyiv and Moscow of using cluster munitions. (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

Ukraine receives delivery of cluster munitions, pledges its limited use

Officials in Kyiv, on Friday (July 14), claimed to have advanced nearly two kilometres along the southern front over the past week amid the Ukrainian counteroffensive to recapture&nbsp;its territory occupied by Russia, reported AFP. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian air force said that they downed 16 Iranian-made drones launched by Russia overnight.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine acknowledges troops not advancing fast enough</h2>

The Ukrainian&nbsp;head of the presidency, Andriy Yermak, on Friday, conceded that the troops are not making a&nbsp;speedy headway in their&nbsp;counteroffensive to recapture&nbsp;territory in the east and south. "Today it's advancing not so quickly," said&nbsp;Yermak, adding that the battles have been difficult.&nbsp;

"If we are going to see that something is going wrong, we'll say so. No one is going to embellish," the Kyiv official&nbsp;told reporters.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukrainian gains on the southern front</h2>

During a press conference, Mykola Urshalovych, a senior representative of the National Guard said that the 15th Karadag brigade and regular troops “supported by tanks, have advanced 1,700 metres to the south and southeast,” of the occupied southern city of Melitopol amid the ongoing offensive, over the past seven days.&nbsp;

Ukrainian troops have moved forward despite “dense” minefields and shelling, he added. According to Urshalovych, National Guard troops continue to maintain their positions in the port city of Berdyansk in the Zaporizhzhia region, “under constant enemy fire”.

The National Guard senior official also said that their troops are preparing to expand an offensive in the Avdiivka sector in eastern Ukraine. This comes days after the Ukrainian military said, on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-re-capture-of-14-square-kilometre-territory-within-a-week-613836">July 10</a>, it had recaptured 14 square kilometres from Russian forces in the south and east of the country over the last week.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine downs 16 drones in&nbsp;overnight attacks</h2>

In a statement online, the Ukrainian air force, on Friday, said that it downed 16 out of the 17 Iranian-made drones launched by Russian forces overnight, in a reported consecutive night of aerial attacks by Moscow.&nbsp;

“The Russians attacked Ukraine with 17 Iranian-made Shahed-136/131 attack drones from the south east direction. As a result of military operations...16 Shaheds were destroyed,” said the Ukrainian air force.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine jails man for Russian plot to blow up arms transport routes</h2>

The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) said that a Ukrainian court, on Friday, jailed a man for 10 years after finding him guilty of plotting with Russia to blow up transport infrastructure to disrupt foreign arms supplies. The man, who was not identified, is said to have been fighting for the Russia-backed militant groups in eastern Ukraine even before Moscow began its “special military operation,” over a year ago.

According to Ukraine’s domestic security agency, he was tasked with blowing up two infrastructure objects by Russian military intelligence but had been detained back in February before he was able to carry out the attack.&nbsp;

While the exact location of where the supposed attack was not mentioned, the targets were said to have been in the Rivne region in western Ukraine which is home to several important road and railway links with NATO member and Kyiv supporter, Poland.&nbsp;

The routes in question are kept a secret in Ukraine but the equipment is often seen passing through the eastern part of the country. This comes as Western military support is seen as vital for Ukraine to fight Russian forces.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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;

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Officials in Kyiv, on Friday (July 14), claimed to have advanced nearly two kilometres along the southern front over the past week amid the Ukrainian counteroffensive to recapture its territory occupied by Russia, reported AFP.

Officials in Kyiv, on Friday (July 14), claimed to have advanced nearly two kilometres along the southern front over the past week amid the Ukrainian counteroffensive to recapture its territory occupied by Russia, reported AFP. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian air force said that they downed 16 Iranian-made drones launched by Russia overnight. Ukraine acknowledges troops not advancing fast enough The Ukrainian head of the presidency, Andriy Yermak, on Friday, conceded that the troops are not making a speedy headway in their counteroffensive to recapture territory in the east and south. "Today it's advancing not so quickly," said Yermak, adding that the battles have been difficult. "If we are going to see that something is going wrong, we'll say so. No one is going to embellish," the Kyiv official told reporters. Ukrainian gains on the southern front During a press conference, Mykola Urshalovych, a senior representative of the National Guard said that the 15th Karadag brigade and regular troops “supported by tanks, have advanced 1,700 metres to the south and southeast,” of the occupied southern city of Melitopol amid the ongoing offensive, over the past seven days. Ukrainian troops have moved forward despite “dense” minefields and shelling, he added. According to Urshalovych, National Guard troops continue to maintain their positions in the port city of Berdyansk in the Zaporizhzhia region, “under constant enemy fire”. The National Guard senior official also said that their troops are preparing to expand an offensive in the Avdiivka sector in eastern Ukraine. This comes days after the Ukrainian military said, on July 10, it had recaptured 14 square kilometres from Russian forces in the south and east of the country over the last week. Ukraine downs 16 drones in overnight attacks In a statement online, the Ukrainian air force, on Friday, said that it downed 16 out of the 17 Iranian-made drones launched by Russian forces overnight, in a reported consecutive night of aerial attacks by Moscow. “The Russians attacked Ukraine with 17 Iranian-made Shahed-136/131 attack drones from the south east direction. As a result of military operations...16 Shaheds were destroyed,” said the Ukrainian air force. Ukraine jails man for Russian plot to blow up arms transport routes The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) said that a Ukrainian court, on Friday, jailed a man for 10 years after finding him guilty of plotting with Russia to blow up transport infrastructure to disrupt foreign arms supplies. The man, who was not identified, is said to have been fighting for the Russia-backed militant groups in eastern Ukraine even before Moscow began its “special military operation,” over a year ago. According to Ukraine’s domestic security agency, he was tasked with blowing up two infrastructure objects by Russian military intelligence but had been detained back in February before he was able to carry out the attack. While the exact location of where the supposed attack was not mentioned, the targets were said to have been in the Rivne region in western Ukraine which is home to several important road and railway links with NATO member and Kyiv supporter, Poland. The routes in question are kept a secret in Ukraine but the equipment is often seen passing through the eastern part of the country. This comes as Western military support is seen as vital for Ukraine to fight Russian forces. (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.

Ukraine says it advanced nearly 2 km on southern front this week; downed 16 drones overnight

The Russian lawmakers on Friday (July 14) voted in favour of new legislation that makes gender&nbsp;reassignment illegal. The bill was passed in the lower house of parliament, further strengthening Moscow's credentials as an ultra-conservative society.&nbsp;

Under the provisions of the law, any&nbsp;"medical interventions aimed at changing the sex of a person," as well as changing one’s gender in official documents and public records, will be prohibited. Meanwhile, those who have already changed their gender will be prohibited from adopting children and their marriages will be annulled.&nbsp;

"The State Duma banned gender reassignment in Russia. The relevant changes to the legislation, initiated by the Chairman of the State Duma Vyacheslav Volodin and deputies of all factions, were adopted in the final version unanimously," read a statement on the Duma's website.

To become law, the bill has to be approved in the upper house of the parliament as well as by President Vladimir Putin. However, given the loyalty of most Kremlin lawmakers to Putin, it appears a mere formality that the bill will be passed without any major disruption.&nbsp;

<h2>Bill intended to protect Russian culture, family values: Lawmakers</h2>

The passing of the bill comes a little more than a month after the draft was introduced. According to senior Russian lawmaker Pyotr Tolstoy who introduced the draft,&nbsp;the legislation is intended to protect Russia's&nbsp;cultural, family values and traditions as well as&nbsp;stop the infiltration of the Western anti-family ideology.&nbsp;

The passing of the bill comes as a blow to the LGBTQ+ community in the country which has been under extreme duress, especially after the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine crisis. Since the start of the offensive in Ukraine, Moscow has adopted a series of measures that aim to clamp down on pro-LGBTQ+ behaviour, considered deviant and Western-influenced.&nbsp;

<h2>Putin against LGBTQ+ community&nbsp;</h2>

President Putin has been staunchly against gender identity politics. On numerous instances, he has called out the gender equality advocates and resisted any change to the conservative society in Russia.

"(It is a) simply monstrous moment when children are pushed to believe from early on that a boy can easily become a girl, and vice versa,"&nbsp;Putin said during one of his addresses.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/life-as-an-lgbtq-in-turkiye-611419">WATCH |&nbsp;Life as an LGBTQ in Turkey&nbsp;</a>

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"They are pushed to believe they have a choice, imposed while parents are swept aside. And a child is forced to make a decision that can break their life," he added.&nbsp;

The Russian president accused 'liberals' of teaching gender ideology to children without consulting psychologists, and called it a crime.&nbsp;

"No-one even consults child psychologists on whether a child of a certain age is able to make these kind of decisions. Calling a spade a spade, this is close to a crime against humanity dressed up in the name and under the flag of progress."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Russian lawmakers on Friday (July 14) voted in favour of new legislation that makes gender reassignment illegal. The bill was passed in the lower house of parliament, further strengthening Moscow's credentials as an ultra-conservative society.

The Russian lawmakers on Friday (July 14) voted in favour of new legislation that makes gender reassignment illegal. The bill was passed in the lower house of parliament, further strengthening Moscow's credentials as an ultra-conservative society. Under the provisions of the law, any "medical interventions aimed at changing the sex of a person," as well as changing one’s gender in official documents and public records, will be prohibited. Meanwhile, those who have already changed their gender will be prohibited from adopting children and their marriages will be annulled. "The State Duma banned gender reassignment in Russia. The relevant changes to the legislation, initiated by the Chairman of the State Duma Vyacheslav Volodin and deputies of all factions, were adopted in the final version unanimously," read a statement on the Duma's website. To become law, the bill has to be approved in the upper house of the parliament as well as by President Vladimir Putin. However, given the loyalty of most Kremlin lawmakers to Putin, it appears a mere formality that the bill will be passed without any major disruption. Bill intended to protect Russian culture, family values: Lawmakers The passing of the bill comes a little more than a month after the draft was introduced. According to senior Russian lawmaker Pyotr Tolstoy who introduced the draft, the legislation is intended to protect Russia's cultural, family values and traditions as well as stop the infiltration of the Western anti-family ideology. The passing of the bill comes as a blow to the LGBTQ+ community in the country which has been under extreme duress, especially after the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine crisis. Since the start of the offensive in Ukraine, Moscow has adopted a series of measures that aim to clamp down on pro-LGBTQ+ behaviour, considered deviant and Western-influenced. Putin against LGBTQ+ community President Putin has been staunchly against gender identity politics. On numerous instances, he has called out the gender equality advocates and resisted any change to the conservative society in Russia. "(It is a) simply monstrous moment when children are pushed to believe from early on that a boy can easily become a girl, and vice versa," Putin said during one of his addresses. WATCH | Life as an LGBTQ in Turkey × "They are pushed to believe they have a choice, imposed while parents are swept aside. And a child is forced to make a decision that can break their life," he added. The Russian president accused 'liberals' of teaching gender ideology to children without consulting psychologists, and called it a crime. "No-one even consults child psychologists on whether a child of a certain age is able to make these kind of decisions. Calling a spade a spade, this is close to a crime against humanity dressed up in the name and under the flag of progress." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russian lawmakers approve bill against gender reassignment, ostracising LGBTQ+ community

US President Joe Biden on Thursday (July 13) said that it was not a matter of if but when Ukraine will be inducted into the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), adding unequivocally that Ukraine 'will join NATO'.

But he maintained that Kyiv could not join the alliance while it was at war with Russia.

Biden was speaking at a press conference in Helsinki just a day after the NATO summit where the alliance did not give a timeline for Ukraine's inclusion.

Watch | NATO ahead of summit with Nordic leaders

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"It's not about whether or not they should or shouldn't join. It's about when they can join, and they will join NATO," he said.

Biden assured that the US will stay committed to NATO. "I absolutely guarantee it," he said when asked about US commitment to NATO given political instability in the US. Biden's predecessor, former president Donald Trump had threatened to take the US out of NATO.

"No one can guarantee the future, but this is the best bet anyone could make," Biden said.

Biden, a Democrat, is running again for president in 2024 and is likely to face Donald Trump as an opponent.

<h2>Putin has 'lost the war'</h2>

"Putin's already lost the war," Biden told the news conference after talks with Nordic leaders. "There is no possibility of him winning the war in Ukraine."

The US president hinted that Ukrainian counterattack against the Russian forces may bring Russia to the negotiation table.&nbsp;

On the issue of nuclear weapons, Biden said there was no 'real prospect' of Putin using them.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-detained-top-generals-just-hours-after-wagner-revolt-report-615117">Russia detained top generals just hours after Wagner revolt: Report</a>

&nbsp;
Biden was in Helsinki to participate in a summit with leaders of Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland and Norway. Biden went to Helsinki directly from the NATO summit in Vilnius, Lithuania.


At the summit, Biden said that Russian invasion of Ukraine has only made NATO stronger.

"A stronger NATO makes the entire world stronger," Biden said.

Finland recently joined NATO after changing its stance of military non-alignment. Finland's inclusion has roughly doubled the length of border NATO shares with Russia.

During the press conference, Biden welcomed the prospects of Sweden joining NATO.

Sweden had applied to join NATO along with Finland. However, Sweden's bid was held up by Turkey, which maintained Sweden was doing too little against people Ankara sees as terrorists.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan dropped objections to its application this week.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson thanked Biden for his support in the country's push to join NATO.

<h2>Prigozhin should be 'careful'</h2>

In an apparent hint that Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin may be assassinated after his short-lived mutiny against Russian President Vladimir Putin, Biden said that he needs to be 'careful' about his food.

"God only knows what he's likely to do. We're not even sure where he is and what relationship he has. If I were he, I'd be careful what I ate. I'd keep my eye on my menu," Biden said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden on Thursday (July 13) said that it was not a matter of if but when Ukraine will be inducted into the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), adding unequivocally that Ukraine 'will join NATO'.

US President Joe Biden on Thursday (July 13) said that it was not a matter of if but when Ukraine will be inducted into the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), adding unequivocally that Ukraine 'will join NATO'. But he maintained that Kyiv could not join the alliance while it was at war with Russia. Biden was speaking at a press conference in Helsinki just a day after the NATO summit where the alliance did not give a timeline for Ukraine's inclusion. Watch | NATO ahead of summit with Nordic leaders × "It's not about whether or not they should or shouldn't join. It's about when they can join, and they will join NATO," he said. Biden assured that the US will stay committed to NATO. "I absolutely guarantee it," he said when asked about US commitment to NATO given political instability in the US. Biden's predecessor, former president Donald Trump had threatened to take the US out of NATO. "No one can guarantee the future, but this is the best bet anyone could make," Biden said. Biden, a Democrat, is running again for president in 2024 and is likely to face Donald Trump as an opponent. Putin has 'lost the war' "Putin's already lost the war," Biden told the news conference after talks with Nordic leaders. "There is no possibility of him winning the war in Ukraine." The US president hinted that Ukrainian counterattack against the Russian forces may bring Russia to the negotiation table. On the issue of nuclear weapons, Biden said there was no 'real prospect' of Putin using them. Also Read | Russia detained top generals just hours after Wagner revolt: Report Biden was in Helsinki to participate in a summit with leaders of Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland and Norway. Biden went to Helsinki directly from the NATO summit in Vilnius, Lithuania. At the summit, Biden said that Russian invasion of Ukraine has only made NATO stronger. "A stronger NATO makes the entire world stronger," Biden said. Finland recently joined NATO after changing its stance of military non-alignment. Finland's inclusion has roughly doubled the length of border NATO shares with Russia. During the press conference, Biden welcomed the prospects of Sweden joining NATO. Sweden had applied to join NATO along with Finland. However, Sweden's bid was held up by Turkey, which maintained Sweden was doing too little against people Ankara sees as terrorists. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan dropped objections to its application this week. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson thanked Biden for his support in the country's push to join NATO. Prigozhin should be 'careful' In an apparent hint that Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin may be assassinated after his short-lived mutiny against Russian President Vladimir Putin, Biden said that he needs to be 'careful' about his food. "God only knows what he's likely to do. We're not even sure where he is and what relationship he has. If I were he, I'd be careful what I ate. I'd keep my eye on my menu," Biden 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 ×

Ukraine 'will join NATO', Putin has 'lost the war': Biden in Helsinki

Hackers suspected of working for Russia's foreign intelligence agency targeted dozens of diplomats at embassies in Ukraine with a fake used car advert in a bid to break into their computers, according to a cybersecurity firm report published on Wednesday.

The wide-reaching espionage activity targeted diplomats working in at least 22 of the roughly 80 foreign missions in Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, analysts at Palo Alto Networks' Unit 42 research division said in the report.

"The campaign began with an innocuous and legitimate event," said the report, which was first reported by Reuters.

"In mid-April 2023, a diplomat within the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs emailed a legitimate flyer to various embassies advertising the sale of a used BMW 5-series sedan located in Kyiv".

The Polish diplomat, who declined to be identified citing security concerns, confirmed the role of his advertisement in the digital intrusion.

The hackers, known as APT29 or "Cozy Bear", intercepted and copied that flyer, embedded it with malicious software, then sent it to dozens of other foreign diplomats working in Kyiv, Unit 42 said.

"This is staggering in scope for what generally are narrowly scoped and clandestine advanced persistent threat (APT) operations," said the report, using an acronym often used to describe state-backed cyberespionage groups.

In 2021, U.S. and British intelligence agencies identified APT29 as an arm of Russia's foreign Intelligence Service, the SVR. The SVR did not respond to a request from Reuters for comment about the hacking campaign.

In April, Polish counterintelligence and cybersecurity authorities warned that the same group had conducted a "widespread intelligence campaign" against NATO member states, the European Union, and Africa.

Researchers at Unit 42 were able to tie the fake car advert back to the SVR because the hackers re-used certain tools and techniques which have previously been connected to the spy agency.

"Diplomatic missions will always be a high-value espionage target," the Unit 42 report said. "Sixteen months into the Russian invasion of Ukraine, intelligence surrounding Ukraine and allied diplomatic efforts are almost certainly a high priority for the Russian government".

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-blocks-delivery-of-aids-to-rebel-held-regions-of-syria-after-vetoing-un-vote-614559">Russia blocks delivery of aid to rebel-held regions of Syria after vetoing UN vote</a>

<h2>Advertisement for used BMW&nbsp;</h2>

The Polish diplomat said he had sent the original advert to various embassies in Kyiv, and that someone had called him back because the price looked "attractive".

"When I checked, I realised they were talking about a slightly lower price," the diplomat told Reuters.

SVR hackers, it turns out, had listed the diplomat's BMW for a lower price - 7,500 euros - in their fake version of the advert, in an attempt to encourage more people to download malicious software that would give them remote access to their devices, Reuters found.

That software, Unit 42 said, was disguised as an album of photographs of the used BMW. Attempts to open those photographs would have infected the target's machine, the report said.

Twenty-one of the 22 embassies targeted by the hackers and subsequently contacted by Reuters did not provide comment. It was not clear which embassies, if any, had been compromised.

A U.S. State Department spokesperson said they were "aware of the activity and based on the Directorate of Cyber and Technology Security's analysis found it did not affect Department systems or accounts."

As for the car, it was still available, the Polish diplomat told Reuters:

"I'll try to sell it in Poland, probably," he said. "After this situation, I don't want to have any more problems".

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Hackers suspected of working for Russia's foreign intelligence agency targeted dozens of diplomats at embassies in Ukraine with a fake used car advert in a bid to break into their computers, according to a cybersecurity firm report published on Wednesday.

Hackers suspected of working for Russia's foreign intelligence agency targeted dozens of diplomats at embassies in Ukraine with a fake used car advert in a bid to break into their computers, according to a cybersecurity firm report published on Wednesday. The wide-reaching espionage activity targeted diplomats working in at least 22 of the roughly 80 foreign missions in Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, analysts at Palo Alto Networks' Unit 42 research division said in the report. "The campaign began with an innocuous and legitimate event," said the report, which was first reported by Reuters. "In mid-April 2023, a diplomat within the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs emailed a legitimate flyer to various embassies advertising the sale of a used BMW 5-series sedan located in Kyiv". The Polish diplomat, who declined to be identified citing security concerns, confirmed the role of his advertisement in the digital intrusion. The hackers, known as APT29 or "Cozy Bear", intercepted and copied that flyer, embedded it with malicious software, then sent it to dozens of other foreign diplomats working in Kyiv, Unit 42 said. "This is staggering in scope for what generally are narrowly scoped and clandestine advanced persistent threat (APT) operations," said the report, using an acronym often used to describe state-backed cyberespionage groups. In 2021, U.S. and British intelligence agencies identified APT29 as an arm of Russia's foreign Intelligence Service, the SVR. The SVR did not respond to a request from Reuters for comment about the hacking campaign. In April, Polish counterintelligence and cybersecurity authorities warned that the same group had conducted a "widespread intelligence campaign" against NATO member states, the European Union, and Africa. Researchers at Unit 42 were able to tie the fake car advert back to the SVR because the hackers re-used certain tools and techniques which have previously been connected to the spy agency. "Diplomatic missions will always be a high-value espionage target," the Unit 42 report said. "Sixteen months into the Russian invasion of Ukraine, intelligence surrounding Ukraine and allied diplomatic efforts are almost certainly a high priority for the Russian government". Also read: Russia blocks delivery of aid to rebel-held regions of Syria after vetoing UN vote Advertisement for used BMW The Polish diplomat said he had sent the original advert to various embassies in Kyiv, and that someone had called him back because the price looked "attractive". "When I checked, I realised they were talking about a slightly lower price," the diplomat told Reuters. SVR hackers, it turns out, had listed the diplomat's BMW for a lower price - 7,500 euros - in their fake version of the advert, in an attempt to encourage more people to download malicious software that would give them remote access to their devices, Reuters found. That software, Unit 42 said, was disguised as an album of photographs of the used BMW. Attempts to open those photographs would have infected the target's machine, the report said. Twenty-one of the 22 embassies targeted by the hackers and subsequently contacted by Reuters did not provide comment. It was not clear which embassies, if any, had been compromised. A U.S. State Department spokesperson said they were "aware of the activity and based on the Directorate of Cyber and Technology Security's analysis found it did not affect Department systems or accounts." As for the car, it was still available, the Polish diplomat told Reuters: "I'll try to sell it in Poland, probably," he said. "After this situation, I don't want to have any more problems". 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.

Russian hackers lured embassy workers in Ukraine with ad for cheap BMW

&nbsp;A massive overnight drone attack was carried out by Russia on Ukraine's capital city Kyiv in which one person was killed and at least four others suffered injuries, said authorities on Thursday, as explosions were heard across the city in the third night of attacks.

"Tonight, a massive attack by Iranian drones took place," the military administration of Kyiv stated on Telegram.

Shahed explosives, which have been made in Iran, "entered the capital from different directions," it stated, adding that "about a dozen" were downed in the airspace of the city. Kyiv claimed that&nbsp;two cruise missiles and&nbsp;20 Russian attack drones were downed on Thursday.

"We have a successful air defence operation," said air force spokesman Yuriy Ignat. "Twenty Shaheds were destroyed -- all those flying were downed. Two Kalibr cruise missiles were also destroyed," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-russian-general-not-seen-in-public-since-mutiny-lawmaker-says-hes-resting-614837">Top Russian general not seen in public since Wagner mutiny, lawmaker says 'he's resting'</a>

<h2>Debris showers on districts</h2>

In five districts, falling debris of the drone was reported, it said, adding that a 23-year-old man and 19-year-old woman were hospitalised with shrapnel wounds.

In Darnytsky district, two people were wounded "as a result of falling debris," wrote Sergiy Popko, head of Kyiv's military administration, on Telegram. However, it remained unclear if the two people mentioned were the same man and woman who were admitted to a hospital.

In Solomyansky, Shevchenkivsky, Podilsky and Darnytsky districts, emergency services responded to frantic calls after "explosions in the capital," Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko stated earlier.

"In Podilsky district, during the firefighting in an apartment building, the body of one dead person was discovered," posted Klitschko on Telegram.&nbsp;

Klitschko added that two people were "hospitalised" in the Darnytsky district after a residential building was damaged because of falling debris.

Meanwhile, two others were treated at the scene in Shevchenkivsky district, said Klitschko.

WATCH |&nbsp;Erdogan: Ukraine, Russia should go back to peace talks | Russia-Ukraine War

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In the Shevchenkivsky district, an apartment building caught fire and another non-residential building was also set ablaze in the Podilsky district, he stated, adding that emergency services immediately reached the site.

Kyiv's military administration shared a picture on&nbsp;Telegram in which a room can be seen in a high-rise building with part of its wall appearing to be blown out, which was said to have been caused by the falling debris in the Darnytsky district.

Ukraine's Air Force issued a warning that the threat of more drone attacks on the city by Russia still remains.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine's progress near Bakhmut&nbsp;</h2>

Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar, from the front line, reported on Telegram: "In the Bakhmut sector, we attacked today on the southern flank around Bakhmut. There is an advance. Our defenders are digging in at their established positions."

Maliar said an attempted Russian advance on towns to the west and north was contained by the Ukrainian forces.&nbsp;

In the southern direction, they "pressed on with offensive operations" towards the Sea of Azov. "In the past week, our defenders in the south have significantly undermined the enemy's attacking and defensive capabilities," she wrote.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A massive overnight drone attack was carried out by Russia on Ukraine's capital city Kyiv in which one person was killed and at least four others suffered injuries, said authorities on Thursday, as explosions were heard across the city in the third night of attacks.

A massive overnight drone attack was carried out by Russia on Ukraine's capital city Kyiv in which one person was killed and at least four others suffered injuries, said authorities on Thursday, as explosions were heard across the city in the third night of attacks. "Tonight, a massive attack by Iranian drones took place," the military administration of Kyiv stated on Telegram. Shahed explosives, which have been made in Iran, "entered the capital from different directions," it stated, adding that "about a dozen" were downed in the airspace of the city. Kyiv claimed that two cruise missiles and 20 Russian attack drones were downed on Thursday. "We have a successful air defence operation," said air force spokesman Yuriy Ignat. "Twenty Shaheds were destroyed -- all those flying were downed. Two Kalibr cruise missiles were also destroyed," he added. ALSO READ | Top Russian general not seen in public since Wagner mutiny, lawmaker says 'he's resting' Debris showers on districts In five districts, falling debris of the drone was reported, it said, adding that a 23-year-old man and 19-year-old woman were hospitalised with shrapnel wounds. In Darnytsky district, two people were wounded "as a result of falling debris," wrote Sergiy Popko, head of Kyiv's military administration, on Telegram. However, it remained unclear if the two people mentioned were the same man and woman who were admitted to a hospital. In Solomyansky, Shevchenkivsky, Podilsky and Darnytsky districts, emergency services responded to frantic calls after "explosions in the capital," Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko stated earlier. "In Podilsky district, during the firefighting in an apartment building, the body of one dead person was discovered," posted Klitschko on Telegram. Klitschko added that two people were "hospitalised" in the Darnytsky district after a residential building was damaged because of falling debris. Meanwhile, two others were treated at the scene in Shevchenkivsky district, said Klitschko. WATCH | Erdogan: Ukraine, Russia should go back to peace talks | Russia-Ukraine War In the Shevchenkivsky district, an apartment building caught fire and another non-residential building was also set ablaze in the Podilsky district, he stated, adding that emergency services immediately reached the site. Kyiv's military administration shared a picture on Telegram in which a room can be seen in a high-rise building with part of its wall appearing to be blown out, which was said to have been caused by the falling debris in the Darnytsky district. Ukraine's Air Force issued a warning that the threat of more drone attacks on the city by Russia still remains. Ukraine's progress near Bakhmut Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar, from the front line, reported on Telegram: "In the Bakhmut sector, we attacked today on the southern flank around Bakhmut. There is an advance. Our defenders are digging in at their established positions." Maliar said an attempted Russian advance on towns to the west and north was contained by the Ukrainian forces. In the southern direction, they "pressed on with offensive operations" towards the Sea of Azov. "In the past week, our defenders in the south have significantly undermined the enemy's attacking and defensive capabilities," she wrote. (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

One killed, four injured after Russia carries out 'massive' overnight strike on Kyiv

Just hours after Wagner group leader Yevgeny Progozhin began his short-lived coup and his forces started a march to Moscow, Russia's domestic security service detained several high-ranking military officers, The Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday (July 13). The news outlet reported that those detained included General Sergei Surovikin, who is the head of Russia's aerospace forces. The WSJ cited people familiar with the situation.

Surovikin is also nicknamed as General Armageddon over the bombing campaigns he waged in Syria. He is now reportedly being held and interrogated in Moscow but hasn't been charged with a crime. WSJ cited a source to report that Surovikin knew about plans for Wagner insurrection but he himself was not involved in the mutiny.

According to the report, at least 13 senior officials have been detained for questioning, some were later released while around 15 were suspended from duty or were fired.

“The detentions are about cleaning the ranks of those who are believed can’t be trusted anymore,” one said as quoted by the WSJ.

The June 24 mutiny by the Wagner group saw its mercenary fighters capture&nbsp;the southern city of Rostov-on-Don and then they began a march to Russian capital Moscow. The forces drove hundreds of miles towards Moscow with almost no resistance on the way.

Just when there were fears of a civil war in Russia, the situation was abruptly defused in a deal which was ostensibly brokered by Belarussian leader Alexander Lukashenko.

Prigozhin had said at the time that the mutiny was not aimed at overthrowing the Putin government but instead was aimed at "bringing to justice" the army and defence chiefs for what was described as their blunders in Ukraine.

<h2>Confusion among Russian leadership since mutiny: US</h2>

A top US general has now said that there is confusion among the Russian leadership after the Wagner revolt.

"At the strategic level, it is pretty clear that you have a significant amount of friction and confusion," General Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told a small group of reporters traveling with him in Asia.

"There's a lot of drama going on at the very senior levels. How that's all going to play out at the end of the day? I'm not so sure yet," Milley said. "I don't think we're done with it. I think there's many more chapters to be heard on that."

Milley said that lower-level Russian troops in Ukraine were likely more focused on the situation on the ground and surviving day to day.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Just hours after Wagner group leader Yevgeny Progozhin began his short-lived coup and his forces started a march to Moscow, Russia's domestic security service detained several high-ranking military officers, The Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday (July 13).

Just hours after Wagner group leader Yevgeny Progozhin began his short-lived coup and his forces started a march to Moscow, Russia's domestic security service detained several high-ranking military officers, The Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday (July 13). The news outlet reported that those detained included General Sergei Surovikin, who is the head of Russia's aerospace forces. The WSJ cited people familiar with the situation. Surovikin is also nicknamed as General Armageddon over the bombing campaigns he waged in Syria. He is now reportedly being held and interrogated in Moscow but hasn't been charged with a crime. WSJ cited a source to report that Surovikin knew about plans for Wagner insurrection but he himself was not involved in the mutiny. According to the report, at least 13 senior officials have been detained for questioning, some were later released while around 15 were suspended from duty or were fired. “The detentions are about cleaning the ranks of those who are believed can’t be trusted anymore,” one said as quoted by the WSJ. The June 24 mutiny by the Wagner group saw its mercenary fighters capture the southern city of Rostov-on-Don and then they began a march to Russian capital Moscow. The forces drove hundreds of miles towards Moscow with almost no resistance on the way. Just when there were fears of a civil war in Russia, the situation was abruptly defused in a deal which was ostensibly brokered by Belarussian leader Alexander Lukashenko. Prigozhin had said at the time that the mutiny was not aimed at overthrowing the Putin government but instead was aimed at "bringing to justice" the army and defence chiefs for what was described as their blunders in Ukraine. Confusion among Russian leadership since mutiny: US A top US general has now said that there is confusion among the Russian leadership after the Wagner revolt. "At the strategic level, it is pretty clear that you have a significant amount of friction and confusion," General Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told a small group of reporters traveling with him in Asia. "There's a lot of drama going on at the very senior levels. How that's all going to play out at the end of the day? I'm not so sure yet," Milley said. "I don't think we're done with it. I think there's many more chapters to be heard on that." Milley said that lower-level Russian troops in Ukraine were likely more focused on the situation on the ground and surviving day to day. (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 detained top generals just hours after Wagner revolt: Report

Deputy commander of Russia's military operations in Ukraine, General Sergei Surovikin, who has not been seen in public since the mutiny by mercenary group Wagner, is currently 'resting', said a lawmaker from the ruling party on Wednesday.

As per Reuters reports, Andrei Kartapolov, head of the State Duma Defence Committee, is heard saying in a video posted on social media: "Surovikin is currently resting. (He is) not available for now."

Surovikin, who is also called 'General Armageddon' by the Russian press for his assertive strategies in the Syria conflict, was last seen publicly when he issued an appeal via a video urging the mercenary group to halt the mutiny while it was underway.

As per reports, Surovikin had good relations with Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, who appreciated the general while regularly criticising Moscow's military leadership, especially Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov, over their handling of the war in Ukraine.

As per a New York Times report based on a U.S. intelligence briefing, Surovikin had prior knowledge of the rebellion and that Russian authorities were probing if he was associated with it or not.

According to the news agency Reuters, Russian and international media, last month, reported that Surovikin had been arrested, but there has been no official confirmation of that, and the Kremlin has declined to answer questions about him.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-to-offer-security-commitments-to-ukraine-after-slow-progress-on-its-nato-induction-614673">West to offer long-term security commitments to Ukraine after slow progress on its NATO induction</a>

<h2>Putin met Wagner chief five days after failed coup attempt: Kremlin</h2>

Russian President Vladimir Putin met the Wagner mercenary group’s chief Yevgeny Prigozhin five days after the failed coup attempt, the Kremlin said on Monday.

Briefing the reporters, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the meeting took place on June 29, in which 35 people were invited, including unit commanders. He further said that the meeting lasted three hours.

Putin “gave his assessment of the events of June 24,” Peskov said, referring to the date of the Wagner Group’s failed uprising. He added that Putin also "listened to accounts given by (Wagner) commanders".

The Wagner commanders told Putin they were his soldiers and would continue to fight for him.

The development comes following speculations that Prigozhin wasn't exiled to Belarus at all as part of the peace deal brokered by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko.

Last week, Lukashenko told reporters that it was unclear if the Wagner fighters would come to Belarus after he previously offered them a desert military base.

“As for Prigozhin, he's in St Petersburg. He is not on the territory of Belarus," he said.

Responding to Lukashenko's remarks, the Kremlin said it was "not following" Prigozhin's movements.

"No, we do not follow his movements, we have neither the ability nor the desire to do so," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Deputy commander of Russia's military operations in Ukraine, General Sergei Surovikin, who has not been seen in public since the mutiny by mercenary group Wagner, is currently 'resting', said a lawmaker from the ruling party on Wednesday.

Deputy commander of Russia's military operations in Ukraine, General Sergei Surovikin, who has not been seen in public since the mutiny by mercenary group Wagner, is currently 'resting', said a lawmaker from the ruling party on Wednesday. As per Reuters reports, Andrei Kartapolov, head of the State Duma Defence Committee, is heard saying in a video posted on social media: "Surovikin is currently resting. (He is) not available for now." Surovikin, who is also called 'General Armageddon' by the Russian press for his assertive strategies in the Syria conflict, was last seen publicly when he issued an appeal via a video urging the mercenary group to halt the mutiny while it was underway. As per reports, Surovikin had good relations with Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, who appreciated the general while regularly criticising Moscow's military leadership, especially Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov, over their handling of the war in Ukraine. As per a New York Times report based on a U.S. intelligence briefing, Surovikin had prior knowledge of the rebellion and that Russian authorities were probing if he was associated with it or not. According to the news agency Reuters, Russian and international media, last month, reported that Surovikin had been arrested, but there has been no official confirmation of that, and the Kremlin has declined to answer questions about him. Also read: West to offer long-term security commitments to Ukraine after slow progress on its NATO induction Putin met Wagner chief five days after failed coup attempt: Kremlin Russian President Vladimir Putin met the Wagner mercenary group’s chief Yevgeny Prigozhin five days after the failed coup attempt, the Kremlin said on Monday. Briefing the reporters, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the meeting took place on June 29, in which 35 people were invited, including unit commanders. He further said that the meeting lasted three hours. Putin “gave his assessment of the events of June 24,” Peskov said, referring to the date of the Wagner Group’s failed uprising. He added that Putin also "listened to accounts given by (Wagner) commanders". The Wagner commanders told Putin they were his soldiers and would continue to fight for him. The development comes following speculations that Prigozhin wasn't exiled to Belarus at all as part of the peace deal brokered by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. Last week, Lukashenko told reporters that it was unclear if the Wagner fighters would come to Belarus after he previously offered them a desert military base. “As for Prigozhin, he's in St Petersburg. He is not on the territory of Belarus," he said. Responding to Lukashenko's remarks, the Kremlin said it was "not following" Prigozhin's movements. "No, we do not follow his movements, we have neither the ability nor the desire to do so," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. (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.

Top Russian general not seen in public since Wagner mutiny, lawmaker says 'he's resting'

Russian military official, Stanislav Rzhitsky, the commander of a submarine in the Black Sea, who had been placed on a blacklist of alleged war criminals by a Ukrainian website,&nbsp;was shot dead, early Monday (July 10) by an unknown assassin while he was on his morning run, reported Russian news agency TASS, citing local officials.&nbsp;

<h2>What do we know about the Russian official’s death?</h2>

The 42-year-old military official was shot in the southern city of Krasnodar, said Russia’s top investigative body. A criminal case has been launched after the alleged murder, reported TASS.&nbsp;

According to Russian media reports, Rzhitsky was the&nbsp;deputy head of military mobilisation in the city and also commanded the “Krasnodar” submarine (named after the city) in the Black Sea. Rzhitsky was reportedly shot four times in the back and chest and died on the spot.

The commander of a diesel-electric submarine, a part of the Russian Black Sea Fleet, was also allegedly responsible for launching Kalibr cruise missiles at Ukrainian targets, according to media reports from Ukraine.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Rzhitsky, was also said to have been involved in a submarine-launched missile attack on the Ukrainian city of Vinnytsia in July, last year, which killed 23 civilians, including a four-year-old girl.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukrainian involvement?</h2>

A report by Reuters said that Rzhitsky’s details, including his address were present on the Ukrainian website Myrotvorets (Peacemaker), which is said to be an unofficial database of perceived enemies of Kyiv. On Tuesday, the word “Liquidated,” in red, was superimposed on his photograph on the site.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian interior ministry adviser, Anton Gerashchenko, took to Twitter and wrote about how the Russian police and the country’s media are blaming the “carefully planned” alleged murder on the “order from Ukraine”.&nbsp;

He added, “So far, Russian police cannot find a single surveillance camera that would show the crime being committed. The search continues.” However, the Ukrainian official did not covertly indicate if the allegations are justified or not.&nbsp;

<h2>Did Putin fire the top Russian general?</h2>

Top Russian general, Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov was shown in a video released by the defence ministry, on Monday, in his first public appearance since the aborted Wagner mutiny last month.&nbsp;

He was also described as the general staff of the Russian armed forces and commander of Moscow’s forces in Ukraine,&nbsp;positions he held prior to the Wagner mutiny.

The recent footage and first public appearances indicate that Russian President Vladimir Putin has retained his two most powerful military men Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Gerasimov.&nbsp;

Russian military bloggers, for weeks, have claimed that the top Russian general had been dismissed and replaced by Putin after Wagner’s June 24 mutiny. However, both the first recent public appearances suggest that the Russian president ignored Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s demand for their dismissal.

On the other hand, Russian military bloggers, as per the Moscow Times claim that Gerasimov has been replaced with Colonel General Mikhail Teplinskiy who took over as commander of the Airborne Forces in June, last year and in April became deputy commander of the grouping in Ukraine.

The pro-Kremlin military blogger Vladimir Romanov reportedly also indicated that Teplinsky is the one running operations on the Russian side.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Russian military official, Stanislav Rzhitsky, the commander of a submarine in the Black Sea, who had been placed on a blacklist of alleged war criminals by a Ukrainian website, was shot dead, early Monday (July 10) by an unknown assassin while he was on his morning run, reported Russian news agency TASS, citing local officials.

Russian military official, Stanislav Rzhitsky, the commander of a submarine in the Black Sea, who had been placed on a blacklist of alleged war criminals by a Ukrainian website, was shot dead, early Monday (July 10) by an unknown assassin while he was on his morning run, reported Russian news agency TASS, citing local officials. What do we know about the Russian official’s death? The 42-year-old military official was shot in the southern city of Krasnodar, said Russia’s top investigative body. A criminal case has been launched after the alleged murder, reported TASS. According to Russian media reports, Rzhitsky was the deputy head of military mobilisation in the city and also commanded the “Krasnodar” submarine (named after the city) in the Black Sea. Rzhitsky was reportedly shot four times in the back and chest and died on the spot. The commander of a diesel-electric submarine, a part of the Russian Black Sea Fleet, was also allegedly responsible for launching Kalibr cruise missiles at Ukrainian targets, according to media reports from Ukraine. Rzhitsky, was also said to have been involved in a submarine-launched missile attack on the Ukrainian city of Vinnytsia in July, last year, which killed 23 civilians, including a four-year-old girl. Ukrainian involvement? A report by Reuters said that Rzhitsky’s details, including his address were present on the Ukrainian website Myrotvorets (Peacemaker), which is said to be an unofficial database of perceived enemies of Kyiv. On Tuesday, the word “Liquidated,” in red, was superimposed on his photograph on the site. Meanwhile, Ukrainian interior ministry adviser, Anton Gerashchenko, took to Twitter and wrote about how the Russian police and the country’s media are blaming the “carefully planned” alleged murder on the “order from Ukraine”. He added, “So far, Russian police cannot find a single surveillance camera that would show the crime being committed. The search continues.” However, the Ukrainian official did not covertly indicate if the allegations are justified or not. Did Putin fire the top Russian general? Top Russian general, Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov was shown in a video released by the defence ministry, on Monday, in his first public appearance since the aborted Wagner mutiny last month. He was also described as the general staff of the Russian armed forces and commander of Moscow’s forces in Ukraine, positions he held prior to the Wagner mutiny. The recent footage and first public appearances indicate that Russian President Vladimir Putin has retained his two most powerful military men Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Gerasimov. Russian military bloggers, for weeks, have claimed that the top Russian general had been dismissed and replaced by Putin after Wagner’s June 24 mutiny. However, both the first recent public appearances suggest that the Russian president ignored Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s demand for their dismissal. On the other hand, Russian military bloggers, as per the Moscow Times claim that Gerasimov has been replaced with Colonel General Mikhail Teplinskiy who took over as commander of the Airborne Forces in June, last year and in April became deputy commander of the grouping in Ukraine. The pro-Kremlin military blogger Vladimir Romanov reportedly also indicated that Teplinsky is the one running operations on the Russian side. (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.

Russian military official, on Ukraine’s ‘blacklist’ of alleged war criminals, shot dead mysteriously

Top Russian general, Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov, was shown in a video released by the defence ministry, on Monday (July 10), ordering officers to destroy Ukrainian missile sites, in his first public appearance since the aborted Wagner mutiny last month. This also comes days after the Russian defence minister made his first public appearance since the mercenary group’s attempted coup. 
&nbsp;

<h2>What was the video about?</h2>

In the footage released by the Russian defence ministry and also shown on state TV, Gerasimov was seen sitting in a military command centre chairing a meeting with top generals, reported Reuters. The 67-year-old top Russian general asked for and then listened to a report by Viktor Afzalov, a deputy in the aerospace forces to General Sergei Surovikin.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-met-wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-five-days-after-failed-coup-attempt-kremlin-613881">Vladimir Putin met Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin five days after failed coup attempt: Kremlin</a>

Surovikin has yet to make a public appearance, and his whereabouts remain unclear. The meeting seen in the footage was said to have taken place on Sunday and also described Gerasimov as the general staff of the Russian armed forces and commander of Moscow’s forces in Ukraine, which are positions he held prior to the Wagner mutiny.&nbsp;

In the video, Gerasimov was being briefed about a Ukrainian missile attack over Crimea and the Rostov region, which Russian officials reported on Sunday. Russia also claimed that it intercepted both missiles, one near the city of Kerch in the Crimean peninsula which Moscow annexed in 2014 and another in the Rostov region, close to the Ukrainian border.&nbsp;

Russia’s top general was seen ordering a response to the attacks, where no casualties and some damage to the buildings in the Rostov region were reported by officials. Gerasimov said, “We note that the aerospace forces have coped with the task (of shooting down the missiles),” reported Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-official-seemingly-claims-responsibility-for-crimea-bridge-blast-613657">Ukrainian official seemingly claims responsibility for Crimea bridge blast</a>

Subsequently, he also asked the aerospace forces and GRU (Main Intelligence Directorate) military intelligence to identify “the storage sites and launch positions of the missiles and other enemy strike weapons to plan a preemptive strike”.&nbsp;

Notably, the faces of most of the participants in the video call were blurred out except for Surovikin’s deputy Afzalov. Additionally, Gerasimov’s subordinates Colonel-General Sergei Rudskoi and Colonel-General Alexei Kim were also seen in the video released on Monday, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

<h2>What do these public appearances mean?</h2>

The recent footage released also comes after the defence ministry, on Saturday, said Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu inspected troops and oversaw the training of the newly formed units made up of contracted servicemen.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-general-who-went-missing-after-wagners-uprising-detained-610134">Russian general who went missing after Wagner’s uprising arrested: Report</a>

It was the defence minister’s first public appearance since last month’s aborted mutiny by the Wagner mercenary group. The Russian ministry also released footage on Telegram which shows Shoigu in khaki military fatigues inspecting soldiers at a shooting range, reported Reuters.

The recent footage and first public appearances indicate that Russian President Vladimir Putin retained his two most powerful military men Shoigu and Gerasimov. This was despite repeated criticism and demands from Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin who called for them to be sacked over alleged incompetence amid Russia’s “special military operation” in Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-eight-killed-13-injured-in-russian-shelling-in-eastern-ukraine-613414">At least eight killed, 13 injured in Russian shelling at residential area in eastern Ukraine</a>

On June 24, Prigozhin announced a coup against the Kremlin amid growing discontent with the top Russian defence officials. The mercenary group’s fighters took control of Rostov-on-Don, which is one of Russia’s largest cities, but did not proceed further saying that they wanted to avoid “shedding Russian blood” and agreed to live in exile in Belarus.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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Top Russian general, Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov, was shown in a video released by the defence ministry, on Monday (July 10), ordering officers to destroy Ukrainian missile sites, in his first public appearance since the aborted Wagner mutiny last month.

Top Russian general, Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov, was shown in a video released by the defence ministry, on Monday (July 10), ordering officers to destroy Ukrainian missile sites, in his first public appearance since the aborted Wagner mutiny last month. This also comes days after the Russian defence minister made his first public appearance since the mercenary group’s attempted coup. What was the video about? In the footage released by the Russian defence ministry and also shown on state TV, Gerasimov was seen sitting in a military command centre chairing a meeting with top generals, reported Reuters. The 67-year-old top Russian general asked for and then listened to a report by Viktor Afzalov, a deputy in the aerospace forces to General Sergei Surovikin. ALSO READ | Vladimir Putin met Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin five days after failed coup attempt: Kremlin Surovikin has yet to make a public appearance, and his whereabouts remain unclear. The meeting seen in the footage was said to have taken place on Sunday and also described Gerasimov as the general staff of the Russian armed forces and commander of Moscow’s forces in Ukraine, which are positions he held prior to the Wagner mutiny. In the video, Gerasimov was being briefed about a Ukrainian missile attack over Crimea and the Rostov region, which Russian officials reported on Sunday. Russia also claimed that it intercepted both missiles, one near the city of Kerch in the Crimean peninsula which Moscow annexed in 2014 and another in the Rostov region, close to the Ukrainian border. Russia’s top general was seen ordering a response to the attacks, where no casualties and some damage to the buildings in the Rostov region were reported by officials. Gerasimov said, “We note that the aerospace forces have coped with the task (of shooting down the missiles),” reported Reuters. ALSO READ | Ukrainian official seemingly claims responsibility for Crimea bridge blast Subsequently, he also asked the aerospace forces and GRU (Main Intelligence Directorate) military intelligence to identify “the storage sites and launch positions of the missiles and other enemy strike weapons to plan a preemptive strike”. Notably, the faces of most of the participants in the video call were blurred out except for Surovikin’s deputy Afzalov. Additionally, Gerasimov’s subordinates Colonel-General Sergei Rudskoi and Colonel-General Alexei Kim were also seen in the video released on Monday, reported Reuters. What do these public appearances mean? The recent footage released also comes after the defence ministry, on Saturday, said Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu inspected troops and oversaw the training of the newly formed units made up of contracted servicemen. ALSO READ | Russian general who went missing after Wagner’s uprising arrested: Report It was the defence minister’s first public appearance since last month’s aborted mutiny by the Wagner mercenary group. The Russian ministry also released footage on Telegram which shows Shoigu in khaki military fatigues inspecting soldiers at a shooting range, reported Reuters. The recent footage and first public appearances indicate that Russian President Vladimir Putin retained his two most powerful military men Shoigu and Gerasimov. This was despite repeated criticism and demands from Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin who called for them to be sacked over alleged incompetence amid Russia’s “special military operation” in Ukraine. ALSO READ | At least eight killed, 13 injured in Russian shelling at residential area in eastern Ukraine On June 24, Prigozhin announced a coup against the Kremlin amid growing discontent with the top Russian defence officials. The mercenary group’s fighters took control of Rostov-on-Don, which is one of Russia’s largest cities, but did not proceed further saying that they wanted to avoid “shedding Russian blood” and agreed to live in exile in Belarus. (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.

Russia’s top general Valery Gerasimov makes first public appearance since aborted Wagner mutiny

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky paid a visit to a Black Sea island whose defenders are famous for defying a Russian warship when the invasion started as the ongoing war reached its 500th day. 
 
"Today we are on Snake Island, which will never be conquered by the occupiers, like the whole of Ukraine, because we are the country of the brave," Zelensky said in a video clip, which was posted on social media on Saturday (July 8). 
 
"I want to thank from here, from this place of victory, each of our soldiers for these 500 days," said Zelensky, in the undated clip in which he was seen reaching the island by boat and placing flowers at a memorial.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-supports-ukraines-nato-membership-as-zelensky-seeks-backing-ahead-of-lithuania-summit-613283">Erdogan supports Ukraine's NATO membership as Zelensky seeks backing ahead of Lithuania summit</a>

Shortly after invading Ukraine on February 24, 2022, Moscow had captured Snake Island. A radio exchange had gone viral in which the crew of Russia's attacking warship were heard demanding Ukrainian soldiers to surrender, who in return had said to them "go f**k yourself". 
 
The Russian army had taken Ukrainian soldiers as prisoners who were later exchanged for Russian captives. This verbal exchange had been recorded and went viral around the world, becoming a theme for the Ukrainian resistance, and even saw its appearance on placards during support rallies and on stamps. 
 
In April, the Russian ship involved in the incident Moskva sank in the Black Sea following what Moscow said sounded like an explosion on board. Ukraine had claimed to hit the warship with missiles.

<h2>UN criticises civilian toll in the war</h2>

The civilian cost inflicted by the Russia-Ukraine war was condemned by the United Nations. The UN's Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU), in a statement, said that more than 9,000 civilians, which included 500 children, were killed since Russia's February 24, 2022 invasion. 
 
"Today we mark another grim milestone in the war that continues to exact a horrific toll on Ukraine's civilians," said Noel Calhoun, the deputy head of HRMMU, in the statement marking 500 days of the war.

WATCH |&nbsp;Zelensky meets Turkey's Erdogan to push Ukraine NATO goals

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This year, although the casualty numbers are slightly lower on average than in 2022, the figure began to increase again in May and June, noted the monitors. On June 27, 13 civilians, which included four children, lost their lives in a missile strike on Kramatorsk in eastern Ukraine. 
 
In the western city of Lviv, far from the front line, rescuers found a 10th body amid the rubble of buildings on Friday. On Thursday, around 37 people were wounded in an early strike that was called as the biggest attack on civilian infrastructure by Mayor Andriy Sadovyi in his city since the start of Russia's invasion of the country.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky paid a visit to a Black Sea island whose defenders are famous for defying a Russian warship when the invasion started as the ongoing war reached its 500th day.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky paid a visit to a Black Sea island whose defenders are famous for defying a Russian warship when the invasion started as the ongoing war reached its 500th day. "Today we are on Snake Island, which will never be conquered by the occupiers, like the whole of Ukraine, because we are the country of the brave," Zelensky said in a video clip, which was posted on social media on Saturday (July 8). "I want to thank from here, from this place of victory, each of our soldiers for these 500 days," said Zelensky, in the undated clip in which he was seen reaching the island by boat and placing flowers at a memorial. ALSO READ | Erdogan supports Ukraine's NATO membership as Zelensky seeks backing ahead of Lithuania summit Shortly after invading Ukraine on February 24, 2022, Moscow had captured Snake Island. A radio exchange had gone viral in which the crew of Russia's attacking warship were heard demanding Ukrainian soldiers to surrender, who in return had said to them "go f**k yourself". The Russian army had taken Ukrainian soldiers as prisoners who were later exchanged for Russian captives. This verbal exchange had been recorded and went viral around the world, becoming a theme for the Ukrainian resistance, and even saw its appearance on placards during support rallies and on stamps. In April, the Russian ship involved in the incident Moskva sank in the Black Sea following what Moscow said sounded like an explosion on board. Ukraine had claimed to hit the warship with missiles. UN criticises civilian toll in the war The civilian cost inflicted by the Russia-Ukraine war was condemned by the United Nations. The UN's Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU), in a statement, said that more than 9,000 civilians, which included 500 children, were killed since Russia's February 24, 2022 invasion. "Today we mark another grim milestone in the war that continues to exact a horrific toll on Ukraine's civilians," said Noel Calhoun, the deputy head of HRMMU, in the statement marking 500 days of the war. WATCH | Zelensky meets Turkey's Erdogan to push Ukraine NATO goals This year, although the casualty numbers are slightly lower on average than in 2022, the figure began to increase again in May and June, noted the monitors. On June 27, 13 civilians, which included four children, lost their lives in a missile strike on Kramatorsk in eastern Ukraine. In the western city of Lviv, far from the front line, rescuers found a 10th body amid the rubble of buildings on Friday. On Thursday, around 37 people were wounded in an early strike that was called as the biggest attack on civilian infrastructure by Mayor Andriy Sadovyi in his city since the start of Russia's invasion of the country. 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 visits island symbol of defiance as Russia-Ukraine war marks 500 days

Since the United States&nbsp;announced that it would send the controversial cluster munitions to Ukraine for the first time amid Kyiv’s counteroffensive, it has drawn opposition and criticism from its allies in Europe, the United Nations, and international organisations. Meanwhile, Kyiv, on Saturday (July 8), welcoming Washington’s decision said that cluster bombs would be used for retaking Ukrainian territory and vowed not to use them in Moscow.&nbsp;

<h2>About cluster munition</h2>

Cluster munitions have been widely denounced for killing and maiming civilians as they typically release large numbers of smaller bomblets which had targets indiscriminately over a wide area, threatening civilians. Additionally, some of the small bomblets do not explode when deployed and can pose a danger for years after a conflict ends.

<h2>How different countries reacted to US’ decision</h2>

The announcement of sending Ukraine cluster munitions&nbsp;as&nbsp;part of an $800 million security package, was made on Friday and announced by US President Joe Biden’s National Security Adviser, Jake Sullivan. “We recognise that cluster munitions create a risk of civilian harm from unexploded ordnance,” said the White House official.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<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">Explained | What are cluster bombs which US is set to provide to Ukraine? Why is it facing opposition?</a>

He added, “This is why we’ve deferred the decision for as long as we could.” Subsequently, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-defends-decision-to-provide-cluster-bombs-to-ukraine-says-they-are-running-out-of-ammunition-613291">Biden</a> also defended his decision to provide cluster bombs to Ukraine, calling it a “very difficult” one.

Germany

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said that the country, as a part of the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/germany-opposes-sending-cluster-munitions-to-ukraine-foreign-minister-613349">opposes</a> Washington’s decision.&nbsp;

Baerbock told reporters, “I have followed the media reports. For us, as a state party, the Oslo agreement applies."&nbsp;She made the statement in reference&nbsp;to the CCM, which was opened for signature in the Norwegian capital in 2008.&nbsp;

The CCM bans the use, stockpiling, production and transfer of cluster munitions. The US, along with countries like China and Russia, is not a part of the treaty which bans the bombs in more than 100 countries.&nbsp;

United Kingdom

United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, on Saturday, also announced Britain’s opposition to sending cluster munitions to Ukraine in line with the CCM, while reiterating support for Kyiv. “We will continue to do our part to support Ukraine against Russia's illegal and unprovoked invasion,” said the British PM.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-cluster-munitions-to-targeting-schools-researchers-accuse-russia-of-war-crimes-in-ukraine-458172">From cluster munitions to targeting schools: Researchers accuse Russia of war crimes in Ukraine</a>

Spain

Similarly, the Spanish defence minister, Margarita Robles, on Saturday also said that cluster bombs should not be sent to help Ukraine. Spain is also a signatory of CCM, in line with which, it has also banned cluster munitions. She went on to reiterate Spain’s support for Ukraine.&nbsp;

“Spain, based on the firm commitment it has with Ukraine, also has a firm commitment that certain weapons and bombs cannot be delivered under any circumstances,” said Robles. She added, “No to cluster bombs and yes to the legitimate defence of Ukraine, which we understand should not be carried out with cluster bombs.”&nbsp;

Canada

Canada also expressed its opposition to Washington’s decision and reiterated its commitment to the Oslo agreement. “We do not support the use of cluster munitions and are committed to putting an end to the effects cluster munitions have on civilians – particularly children,” said the Canadian government.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cluster-munitions-would-be-useful-for-ukraine-pentagon-612628">Cluster munitions would be useful for Ukraine: Pentagon</a>

It added, “Canada is fully compliant with the Convention and we take seriously our obligation under the Convention to encourage its universal adoption.”&nbsp;

<h2>United Nations</h2>

The spokesperson for the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that the UN chief also opposed the move and that he “does not want there to be continued use of cluster munitions on the battlefield.”

<h2>Rights groups, organisations fume&nbsp;</h2>

In a series of statements, several international human rights organisations have criticised Washington’s decision and raised alarm about how it would affect civilians’ lives.&nbsp;

Human Rights Watch said that “transferring these weapons would inevitably cause long-term suffering for civilians and undermine the international opprobrium of their use.”&nbsp;

Similarly, Amnesty International said that the Biden administration should understand that “any decision enabling the broader use of cluster bombs in this war will likely lead to one predictable outcome: the further death of civilians.” It added, “Their (cluster munitions) transfer and use by any country under any circumstances is incompatible with international law.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-provide-ukraine-with-cluster-munitions-confirms-white-house-613271">US to provide Ukraine with cluster munitions, confirms White House</a> 
 
“This is a death sentence to civilians over the long term. There are people who have not yet been born who will fall victim (to cluster bombs),” said Baptiste Chapuis of Handicap International, as quoted by AFP.&nbsp; 
 
Vice-chair of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines and Cluster Munition Coalition Governance Board, Paul Hannon said, “The Biden administration’s decision to transfer cluster munitions will contribute to the terrible casualties being suffered by Ukrainian civilians both immediately and for years to come.” 
 
He added,&nbsp;“Russia and Ukraine’s use of cluster munitions is adding to Ukraine’s already massive contamination from explosive remnants and landmines.”&nbsp;

Director of the US-based Arms Control Association, Daryl Kimball, said that Washington’s decision would be “escalatory, counterproductive, and only further increase the dangers to civilians caught in combat zones”.&nbsp;He added, “Cluster munitions will not differentiate a Ukrainian soldier from a Russian one.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-mulls-giving-ukraine-lethal-weapons-that-white-house-once-described-as-aiding-war-crimes-612905">White House to give lethal weapons to Ukraine that it once flagged for ‘war crimes’</a>

Kimball also spoke about how the effectiveness of cluster bombs is “significantly oversold” and while its impact on civilians is “widely acknowledged,” it is “too often overlooked”.

<h2>Ukraine responds to criticism&nbsp;</h2>

Amid criticism, Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov took to Twitter and welcomed US’ decision and said it would help in the “de-occupation of our internationally recognised territories” and vowed that the munitions would not be used in “officially recognised territory of Russia.”

“Our position is simple - we need to liberate our temporarily occupied territories and save the lives of our people,” said Reznikov. He also spoke about how the munitions would help save the lives of Ukrainian soldiers and that Kyiv will keep a strict record of their use and exchange information with its partners.

<h2>US decision on cluster bombs for Ukraine shows ‘weakness’: Russia</h2>

Russian Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, in a statement, said that the US decision to send cluster munitions is an “act of desperation and shows weakness against the backdrop of the failure of the much-touted Ukrainian counteroffensive.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-adds-russia-to-its-list-of-shame-over-ukraine-war-heres-why-607614">UN adds Russia to its ‘list of shame’ over Ukraine war: Here’s why</a>

She added, “The latest ‘miracle weapon’ which Washington and Kyiv are betting on, without thinking about the grave consequences, will have no effect on the special military operation,” referring to what Moscow officially calls its campaign in Ukraine. 
 
The Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman also went on to warn that the decision by Washington showed&nbsp;an “aggressive anti-Russian course…aimed at prolonging the conflict in Ukraine as much as possible”.

Zakharova also went on to call Kyiv’s promises to use the controversial munitions responsibly “not worth anything”.&nbsp;Notably, Russia&nbsp;has also been accused of using&nbsp;cluster munitions in Ukraine.&nbsp;The&nbsp;Cluster Munition Monitor&nbsp;reported that the cluster munitions were&nbsp;actively being used&nbsp;by Russia in August last year.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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Since the United States announced that it would send the controversial cluster munitions to Ukraine for the first time amid Kyiv’s counteroffensive, it has drawn opposition and criticism from its allies in Europe, the United Nations, and international organisations.

Since the United States announced that it would send the controversial cluster munitions to Ukraine for the first time amid Kyiv’s counteroffensive, it has drawn opposition and criticism from its allies in Europe, the United Nations, and international organisations. Meanwhile, Kyiv, on Saturday (July 8), welcoming Washington’s decision said that cluster bombs would be used for retaking Ukrainian territory and vowed not to use them in Moscow. About cluster munition Cluster munitions have been widely denounced for killing and maiming civilians as they typically release large numbers of smaller bomblets which had targets indiscriminately over a wide area, threatening civilians. Additionally, some of the small bomblets do not explode when deployed and can pose a danger for years after a conflict ends. How different countries reacted to US’ decision The announcement of sending Ukraine cluster munitions as part of an $800 million security package, was made on Friday and announced by US President Joe Biden’s National Security Adviser, Jake Sullivan. “We recognise that cluster munitions create a risk of civilian harm from unexploded ordnance,” said the White House official. ALSO READ | Explained | What are cluster bombs which US is set to provide to Ukraine? Why is it facing opposition? He added, “This is why we’ve deferred the decision for as long as we could.” Subsequently, Biden also defended his decision to provide cluster bombs to Ukraine, calling it a “very difficult” one. Germany German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said that the country, as a part of the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM), opposes Washington’s decision. Baerbock told reporters, “I have followed the media reports. For us, as a state party, the Oslo agreement applies." She made the statement in reference to the CCM, which was opened for signature in the Norwegian capital in 2008. The CCM bans the use, stockpiling, production and transfer of cluster munitions. The US, along with countries like China and Russia, is not a part of the treaty which bans the bombs in more than 100 countries. United Kingdom United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, on Saturday, also announced Britain’s opposition to sending cluster munitions to Ukraine in line with the CCM, while reiterating support for Kyiv. “We will continue to do our part to support Ukraine against Russia's illegal and unprovoked invasion,” said the British PM. ALSO READ | From cluster munitions to targeting schools: Researchers accuse Russia of war crimes in Ukraine Spain Similarly, the Spanish defence minister, Margarita Robles, on Saturday also said that cluster bombs should not be sent to help Ukraine. Spain is also a signatory of CCM, in line with which, it has also banned cluster munitions. She went on to reiterate Spain’s support for Ukraine. “Spain, based on the firm commitment it has with Ukraine, also has a firm commitment that certain weapons and bombs cannot be delivered under any circumstances,” said Robles. She added, “No to cluster bombs and yes to the legitimate defence of Ukraine, which we understand should not be carried out with cluster bombs.” Canada Canada also expressed its opposition to Washington’s decision and reiterated its commitment to the Oslo agreement. “We do not support the use of cluster munitions and are committed to putting an end to the effects cluster munitions have on civilians – particularly children,” said the Canadian government. ALSO WATCH | Cluster munitions would be useful for Ukraine: Pentagon It added, “Canada is fully compliant with the Convention and we take seriously our obligation under the Convention to encourage its universal adoption.” United Nations The spokesperson for the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that the UN chief also opposed the move and that he “does not want there to be continued use of cluster munitions on the battlefield.” Rights groups, organisations fume In a series of statements, several international human rights organisations have criticised Washington’s decision and raised alarm about how it would affect civilians’ lives. Human Rights Watch said that “transferring these weapons would inevitably cause long-term suffering for civilians and undermine the international opprobrium of their use.” Similarly, Amnesty International said that the Biden administration should understand that “any decision enabling the broader use of cluster bombs in this war will likely lead to one predictable outcome: the further death of civilians.” It added, “Their (cluster munitions) transfer and use by any country under any circumstances is incompatible with international law.” ALSO READ | US to provide Ukraine with cluster munitions, confirms White House “This is a death sentence to civilians over the long term. There are people who have not yet been born who will fall victim (to cluster bombs),” said Baptiste Chapuis of Handicap International, as quoted by AFP. Vice-chair of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines and Cluster Munition Coalition Governance Board, Paul Hannon said, “The Biden administration’s decision to transfer cluster munitions will contribute to the terrible casualties being suffered by Ukrainian civilians both immediately and for years to come.” He added, “Russia and Ukraine’s use of cluster munitions is adding to Ukraine’s already massive contamination from explosive remnants and landmines.” Director of the US-based Arms Control Association, Daryl Kimball, said that Washington’s decision would be “escalatory, counterproductive, and only further increase the dangers to civilians caught in combat zones”. He added, “Cluster munitions will not differentiate a Ukrainian soldier from a Russian one.” ALSO READ | White House to give lethal weapons to Ukraine that it once flagged for ‘war crimes’ Kimball also spoke about how the effectiveness of cluster bombs is “significantly oversold” and while its impact on civilians is “widely acknowledged,” it is “too often overlooked”. Ukraine responds to criticism Amid criticism, Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov took to Twitter and welcomed US’ decision and said it would help in the “de-occupation of our internationally recognised territories” and vowed that the munitions would not be used in “officially recognised territory of Russia.” “Our position is simple - we need to liberate our temporarily occupied territories and save the lives of our people,” said Reznikov. He also spoke about how the munitions would help save the lives of Ukrainian soldiers and that Kyiv will keep a strict record of their use and exchange information with its partners. US decision on cluster bombs for Ukraine shows ‘weakness’: Russia Russian Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, in a statement, said that the US decision to send cluster munitions is an “act of desperation and shows weakness against the backdrop of the failure of the much-touted Ukrainian counteroffensive.” ALSO READ | UN adds Russia to its ‘list of shame’ over Ukraine war: Here’s why She added, “The latest ‘miracle weapon’ which Washington and Kyiv are betting on, without thinking about the grave consequences, will have no effect on the special military operation,” referring to what Moscow officially calls its campaign in Ukraine. The Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman also went on to warn that the decision by Washington showed an “aggressive anti-Russian course…aimed at prolonging the conflict in Ukraine as much as possible”. Zakharova also went on to call Kyiv’s promises to use the controversial munitions responsibly “not worth anything”. Notably, Russia has also been accused of using cluster munitions in Ukraine. The Cluster Munition Monitor reported that the cluster munitions were actively being used by Russia in August last year. (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.

Explained | Several nations, rights groups and UN oppose US move to send cluster bombs to Ukraine

A Ukrainian defence official, on Sunday (July 9), seemingly revealed that the country’s forces attacked the bridge connecting Russia and Russian-occupied Crimea, last year. Meanwhile, Russian officials claimed that their air defence systems shot down two missiles, one over the annexed Crimean peninsula and the other one over the southern Rostov region which borders Ukraine.&nbsp;

This also comes amid the Polish president’s visit to Ukraine to meet with his Ukrainian counterpart.&nbsp;

<h2>Did Ukraine claim responsibility for Crimea bridge blast?</h2>

In what might be the first direct admission of Ukraine’s involvement in the blast which damaged Russia’s only land link to Crimea (annexed by Moscow in 2014), Ukraine’s Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar in a Telegram post, said, “(It’s been) 273 days since (we) carried out the first strike on the Crimean bridge in order to disrupt the logistics for the Russians”.&nbsp;

The post, on Saturday, also noted some other Ukrainian successes amid the ongoing conflict, including the sinking of the Moskva cruiser, which the Russian officials have refused to attribute to a Ukrainian attack, as well as the liberation of Snake Island.&nbsp;

The Kerch Bridge blast took place in October 2022 and was inaugurated by President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;in 2018&nbsp;and is seen as a vital transport link carrying military equipment to Russian soldiers in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Officials in Moscow had determined that the blast took place after a vehicle had exploded and ignited a huge fire, setting ablaze seven oil tankers transported by train and collapsing two car lanes of the giant road and rail structure.

The Ukrainian defence official’s statement also caught the attention of Russian state media and officials. Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, in response, once again called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s government a “terrorist regime” and condemned the attack, in an online statement.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia claims to have intercepted missiles over Crimea and Rostov region</h2>

Russia-installed Governor Sergei Aksyonov took to Telegram, on Sunday, and said that a cruise missile was shot down near the city of Kerch on the Crimean peninsula but did not inflict any damage or cause casualties.&nbsp;

Additionally, local officials also reported some disruption in the traffic movement on the Crimean Bridge but said it was restored after an apparent suspension. However, they did not give any reason for the traffic halt.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Russian Governor Vasily Golubev also took to Telegram and said the air defence shot down a Ukrainian missile in the Rostov region which is close to the Ukrainian border. “There were no casualties. The debris partially damaged the roofs of several buildings,” said Golubev.&nbsp;

<h2>Polish president’s visit to Ukraine&nbsp;</h2>

Polish President Andrzej Duda took to social media, on Sunday, and wrote, “We are stronger together,” while visiting the western city of Lutsk with his Ukrainian counterpart, on Sunday. The visit comes ahead of the NATO summit on July 11-12 where Kyiv is expecting a clear indication about being a part of the United States-led military alliance.&nbsp;

Notably, Poland has been one of the biggest supporters of Ukraine within NATO since the beginning of the conflict over a year ago and asked for “security guarantees” from other members of the alliance for Kyiv.

<h2>Poland increases security along eastern border</h2>

The Polish president’s visit to Ukraine comes a day after the country’s defence minister said that they are moving more than 1,000 troops to the east of the country amid concerns over the presence of Russia’s Wagner Group fighters in neighbouring Belarus.

“Over 1,000 soldiers and almost 200 units of equipment from the 12th and 17th Mechanized Brigades are starting to move to the east of the country,” said Polish Defence Minister Mariusz Blaszczak. He added, “This is a demonstration of our readiness to respond to attempts at destabilisation near the border of our country.”&nbsp;

The move also comes nearly a week after Warsaw said it would send 500 police officers to its border with Belarus to secure its border amid an increase in the number of migrants trying to cross into the country from Minsk.&nbsp;

Over 200 people tried to enter Poland illegally, on Friday,&nbsp;including citizens of Morocco, India and Ethiopia, according to&nbsp;the Border Guard.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
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A Ukrainian defence official, on Sunday (July 9), seemingly revealed that the country’s forces attacked the bridge connecting Russia and Russian-occupied Crimea, last year.

A Ukrainian defence official, on Sunday (July 9), seemingly revealed that the country’s forces attacked the bridge connecting Russia and Russian-occupied Crimea, last year. Meanwhile, Russian officials claimed that their air defence systems shot down two missiles, one over the annexed Crimean peninsula and the other one over the southern Rostov region which borders Ukraine. This also comes amid the Polish president’s visit to Ukraine to meet with his Ukrainian counterpart. Did Ukraine claim responsibility for Crimea bridge blast? In what might be the first direct admission of Ukraine’s involvement in the blast which damaged Russia’s only land link to Crimea (annexed by Moscow in 2014), Ukraine’s Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar in a Telegram post, said, “(It’s been) 273 days since (we) carried out the first strike on the Crimean bridge in order to disrupt the logistics for the Russians”. The post, on Saturday, also noted some other Ukrainian successes amid the ongoing conflict, including the sinking of the Moskva cruiser, which the Russian officials have refused to attribute to a Ukrainian attack, as well as the liberation of Snake Island. The Kerch Bridge blast took place in October 2022 and was inaugurated by President Vladimir Putin in 2018 and is seen as a vital transport link carrying military equipment to Russian soldiers in Ukraine. Officials in Moscow had determined that the blast took place after a vehicle had exploded and ignited a huge fire, setting ablaze seven oil tankers transported by train and collapsing two car lanes of the giant road and rail structure. The Ukrainian defence official’s statement also caught the attention of Russian state media and officials. Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, in response, once again called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s government a “terrorist regime” and condemned the attack, in an online statement. Russia claims to have intercepted missiles over Crimea and Rostov region Russia-installed Governor Sergei Aksyonov took to Telegram, on Sunday, and said that a cruise missile was shot down near the city of Kerch on the Crimean peninsula but did not inflict any damage or cause casualties. Additionally, local officials also reported some disruption in the traffic movement on the Crimean Bridge but said it was restored after an apparent suspension. However, they did not give any reason for the traffic halt. Meanwhile, Russian Governor Vasily Golubev also took to Telegram and said the air defence shot down a Ukrainian missile in the Rostov region which is close to the Ukrainian border. “There were no casualties. The debris partially damaged the roofs of several buildings,” said Golubev. Polish president’s visit to Ukraine Polish President Andrzej Duda took to social media, on Sunday, and wrote, “We are stronger together,” while visiting the western city of Lutsk with his Ukrainian counterpart, on Sunday. The visit comes ahead of the NATO summit on July 11-12 where Kyiv is expecting a clear indication about being a part of the United States-led military alliance. Notably, Poland has been one of the biggest supporters of Ukraine within NATO since the beginning of the conflict over a year ago and asked for “security guarantees” from other members of the alliance for Kyiv. Poland increases security along eastern border The Polish president’s visit to Ukraine comes a day after the country’s defence minister said that they are moving more than 1,000 troops to the east of the country amid concerns over the presence of Russia’s Wagner Group fighters in neighbouring Belarus. “Over 1,000 soldiers and almost 200 units of equipment from the 12th and 17th Mechanized Brigades are starting to move to the east of the country,” said Polish Defence Minister Mariusz Blaszczak. He added, “This is a demonstration of our readiness to respond to attempts at destabilisation near the border of our country.” The move also comes nearly a week after Warsaw said it would send 500 police officers to its border with Belarus to secure its border amid an increase in the number of migrants trying to cross into the country from Minsk. Over 200 people tried to enter Poland illegally, on Friday, including citizens of Morocco, India and Ethiopia, according to the Border Guard. (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.

Ukrainian official seemingly claims responsibility for Crimea bridge blast

Freedom of Russia Legion's commander Caesar said that another cross-border raid inside Russia is being planned by his fighters as they are seeking to capitalise on the confusion that still prevails in the Kremlin&nbsp;post the mutiny by Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin. 
 
“There will be a further surprise in the next month or so,” said Caesar, who is a spokesperson for the anti-Putin paramilitary group, in an interview with the Observer in Kyiv. “It will be our third operation. After that, there will be a fourth, and fifth. We have ambitious plans. We want to free all our territory,” he stated. 
 
The legion, which has more than a hundred Russian military volunteers, had carried out attacks in May and early June. In the attacks, they were able to capture border villages near the Russian city of Belgorod after a skirmish with the Russian army. Ten&nbsp;Russian soldiers were also taken captive by them. Caesar said that two members of the anti-Kremlin militia also lost their lives.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-eight-killed-13-injured-in-russian-shelling-in-eastern-ukraine-613414">At least eight killed, 13 injured after Russian shelling in eastern Ukraine</a>

The recent incursion that took place near the town of Shebekino was described by him as a “local raid and reconnaissance operation”. He accepted that his militia can only function with the help of the Ukrainian military but added that once they are on Russian territory, they make their own independent decisions. 
 
He stated that the armoured vehicles of the legion were mostly seized from Russian stocks which were captured in Ukraine. 
 
He added that the reports of the Kremlin claiming heavy losses among his guerrillas were exaggerated and ridiculous.&nbsp;“They dressed up dead bodies in Ukrainian uniforms and put them on TV. Ours look different. It was all a dumb lie," Caesar said.

<h2>'Prototype of a future Russian society'</h2>

Caesar, while speaking to the Observer, called himself a “constitutional monarchist”. He said that he admired Margaret Thatcher and Winston Churchill, and emphasised that the legion included fighters who have left- and right-wing views and some were even disenchanted supporters of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny&nbsp;who was poisoned by the FSB spy agency and is now in jail. 
 
“We are a prototype of a future Russian society. There are different perspectives,” said Caesar. He stated that he was outraged at the murderous bombing of civilians carried out by the Kremlin.

WATCH |&nbsp;Kyiv: Russian attack kills 8, injures 13 in Lyman in Eastern Ukraine | Russia-Ukraine War

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The legion was “fighting and dying” for Ukraine’s future as well as Russia’s, he said. “It’s a common struggle, a common tragedy,” he added. 
 
“I don’t respect Prigozhin. He and Putin have the same values. Prigozhin is more charismatic and appeals to ultra-patriots who want to fight to the end. They think harsher methods will bring them victory. It’s not realistic,” said Caesar. 
 
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Freedom of Russia Legion's commander Caesar said that another cross-border raid inside Russia is being planned by his fighters as they are seeking to capitalise on the confusion that still prevails in the Kremlin post the mutiny by Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin.

Freedom of Russia Legion's commander Caesar said that another cross-border raid inside Russia is being planned by his fighters as they are seeking to capitalise on the confusion that still prevails in the Kremlin post the mutiny by Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin. “There will be a further surprise in the next month or so,” said Caesar, who is a spokesperson for the anti-Putin paramilitary group, in an interview with the Observer in Kyiv. “It will be our third operation. After that, there will be a fourth, and fifth. We have ambitious plans. We want to free all our territory,” he stated. The legion, which has more than a hundred Russian military volunteers, had carried out attacks in May and early June. In the attacks, they were able to capture border villages near the Russian city of Belgorod after a skirmish with the Russian army. Ten Russian soldiers were also taken captive by them. Caesar said that two members of the anti-Kremlin militia also lost their lives. ALSO READ | At least eight killed, 13 injured after Russian shelling in eastern Ukraine The recent incursion that took place near the town of Shebekino was described by him as a “local raid and reconnaissance operation”. He accepted that his militia can only function with the help of the Ukrainian military but added that once they are on Russian territory, they make their own independent decisions. He stated that the armoured vehicles of the legion were mostly seized from Russian stocks which were captured in Ukraine. He added that the reports of the Kremlin claiming heavy losses among his guerrillas were exaggerated and ridiculous. “They dressed up dead bodies in Ukrainian uniforms and put them on TV. Ours look different. It was all a dumb lie," Caesar said. 'Prototype of a future Russian society' Caesar, while speaking to the Observer, called himself a “constitutional monarchist”. He said that he admired Margaret Thatcher and Winston Churchill, and emphasised that the legion included fighters who have left- and right-wing views and some were even disenchanted supporters of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny who was poisoned by the FSB spy agency and is now in jail. “We are a prototype of a future Russian society. There are different perspectives,” said Caesar. He stated that he was outraged at the murderous bombing of civilians carried out by the Kremlin. WATCH | Kyiv: Russian attack kills 8, injures 13 in Lyman in Eastern Ukraine | Russia-Ukraine War The legion was “fighting and dying” for Ukraine’s future as well as Russia’s, he said. “It’s a common struggle, a common tragedy,” he added. “I don’t respect Prigozhin. He and Putin have the same values. Prigozhin is more charismatic and appeals to ultra-patriots who want to fight to the end. They think harsher methods will bring them victory. It’s not realistic,” said Caesar. 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

Anti-Putin forces hint at fresh attacks in Russia, say they have 'ambitious plans'

In what is being viewed as a historic move for Switzerland, which is known for its foreign-policy neutrality, along with Austria signed a declaration of intent, on Friday (July 7), to join the European air defence system Sky Shield. The Germany-led efforts come amid threats highlighted by the Russian invasion of Ukraine which began over a year ago and in a bid to strengthen Europe’s air defences.&nbsp;

<h2>Switzerland and Austria intend to join defence initiative</h2>

The Swiss and Austrian defence ministers, Viola Amherd and Klaudia Tanner signed a memorandum of understanding to join the air defence system known as Sky Shield, in Bern, during a meeting with their German counterpart, Boris Pistorius. &nbsp;

So far, 19 countries, including Bern and Vienna, have joined the Europe-wide defence system which also involves countries including the United Kingdom, the Nordic and Baltic countries, Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria.

The initiative includes procurement and an agreement to promote research cooperation in the field of armaments, said the Swiss government. The German-led initiative which began in August, last year, is designed to allow European countries to buy defence systems together and train together.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/neutral-switzerland-blocks-big-arms-sale-to-ukraine-boosts-russian-fortunes-in-ongoing-war-609887">'Neutral' Switzerland blocks big arms sale to Ukraine, boosts Russian fortunes in ongoing war</a>

In line with the initiative to strengthen and bridge the gap in Europe’s air defences, Germany proposed Sky Shield as a fast and cost-efficient plan which involves the procurement of available systems off-the-shelf from suppliers like the United States and others.&nbsp;

<h2>Swiss and Austrians move away from ‘neutrality’?</h2>

Both Switzerland and Austria have stressed their neutrality remains unchanged. In a statement, the Swiss government said, “It is in Switzerland’s interest to gear its security and defense policy more consistently towards international cooperation, and to increase its contributions.”&nbsp;

The Swiss government also said, “Switzerland and Austria also set out the terms regarding neutrality, in an additional declaration,” adding that it includes terms like “they will not participate or be involved in international military conflicts.”

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Switzerland signs up for Sky Shield project

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Meanwhile, Austria has argued that by pooling military resources it is able to maintain its neutral status.

<h2>Russia-Ukraine war affects Switzerland’s historic neutral stance</h2>

The effects of Russia’s war in Ukraine on Switzerland’s recent moves have led many to question the viability of its traditionally strict neutrality. Since the beginning of Russia’s “special military operation” in Ukraine, Switzerland has joined the European Union-led (EU) efforts to impose sanctions against Moscow.&nbsp;

While the Swiss, whose neutrality dates back to the 19th century, were able to defend their borders during World War II by making compromises with both Allied and Axis powers, it will be difficult to do so now. Since Switzerland is a member of the United Nations and the Russian invasion of Ukraine is seen as a violation of the UN charter.&nbsp;

“For the first time in a long time we are facing a conflict in which a country has clearly violated the UN Charter as an aggressor and which activates the right to collective defense, and the question as to whether Switzerland should participate is very controversial,” Thomas Cottier, professor emeritus of European and international economic law at the University of Bern told Spanish newspaper El País.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swiss-exports-to-russia-dropped-marginally-while-pharma-registered-strong-growth-despite-sanctions-581005">Swiss exports to Russia dropped marginally, while pharma registered strong growth despite sanctions</a>&nbsp;

“Traditional neutrality is not sustainable, it’s not morally acceptable in my view,” said Social Democrat MP Jon Pult, earlier this year, as quoted by BBC. He added, “If Swiss neutrality means we’re somehow the advocates of international law and of the UN charter then I’m ok with neutrality, because then Switzerland can be a power of peace and freedom and rules-based world order.”

Last month, Switzerland blocked Bern-headquartered Ruag AG from selling nearly 100 Leopard-1 tanks to Kyiv, which the Swiss cabinet said would go against the country’s laws. However, it was not related to a separate sale of Leopard-1 tanks of the Swiss army to the German company Rheinmetall AG. Under the proposed terms of the sale, these tanks cannot be sent to Ukraine but could be used to replace tanks that Germany is sending from its own stock.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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In what is being viewed as a historic move for Switzerland, which is known for its foreign-policy neutrality, along with Austria signed a declaration of intent, on Friday (July 7), to join the European air defence system Sky Shield.

In what is being viewed as a historic move for Switzerland, which is known for its foreign-policy neutrality, along with Austria signed a declaration of intent, on Friday (July 7), to join the European air defence system Sky Shield. The Germany-led efforts come amid threats highlighted by the Russian invasion of Ukraine which began over a year ago and in a bid to strengthen Europe’s air defences. Switzerland and Austria intend to join defence initiative The Swiss and Austrian defence ministers, Viola Amherd and Klaudia Tanner signed a memorandum of understanding to join the air defence system known as Sky Shield, in Bern, during a meeting with their German counterpart, Boris Pistorius. So far, 19 countries, including Bern and Vienna, have joined the Europe-wide defence system which also involves countries including the United Kingdom, the Nordic and Baltic countries, Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria. The initiative includes procurement and an agreement to promote research cooperation in the field of armaments, said the Swiss government. The German-led initiative which began in August, last year, is designed to allow European countries to buy defence systems together and train together. ALSO READ | 'Neutral' Switzerland blocks big arms sale to Ukraine, boosts Russian fortunes in ongoing war In line with the initiative to strengthen and bridge the gap in Europe’s air defences, Germany proposed Sky Shield as a fast and cost-efficient plan which involves the procurement of available systems off-the-shelf from suppliers like the United States and others. Swiss and Austrians move away from ‘neutrality’? Both Switzerland and Austria have stressed their neutrality remains unchanged. In a statement, the Swiss government said, “It is in Switzerland’s interest to gear its security and defense policy more consistently towards international cooperation, and to increase its contributions.” The Swiss government also said, “Switzerland and Austria also set out the terms regarding neutrality, in an additional declaration,” adding that it includes terms like “they will not participate or be involved in international military conflicts.” ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: Switzerland signs up for Sky Shield project Meanwhile, Austria has argued that by pooling military resources it is able to maintain its neutral status. Russia-Ukraine war affects Switzerland’s historic neutral stance The effects of Russia’s war in Ukraine on Switzerland’s recent moves have led many to question the viability of its traditionally strict neutrality. Since the beginning of Russia’s “special military operation” in Ukraine, Switzerland has joined the European Union-led (EU) efforts to impose sanctions against Moscow. While the Swiss, whose neutrality dates back to the 19th century, were able to defend their borders during World War II by making compromises with both Allied and Axis powers, it will be difficult to do so now. Since Switzerland is a member of the United Nations and the Russian invasion of Ukraine is seen as a violation of the UN charter. “For the first time in a long time we are facing a conflict in which a country has clearly violated the UN Charter as an aggressor and which activates the right to collective defense, and the question as to whether Switzerland should participate is very controversial,” Thomas Cottier, professor emeritus of European and international economic law at the University of Bern told Spanish newspaper El País. ALSO READ | Swiss exports to Russia dropped marginally, while pharma registered strong growth despite sanctions “Traditional neutrality is not sustainable, it’s not morally acceptable in my view,” said Social Democrat MP Jon Pult, earlier this year, as quoted by BBC. He added, “If Swiss neutrality means we’re somehow the advocates of international law and of the UN charter then I’m ok with neutrality, because then Switzerland can be a power of peace and freedom and rules-based world order.” Last month, Switzerland blocked Bern-headquartered Ruag AG from selling nearly 100 Leopard-1 tanks to Kyiv, which the Swiss cabinet said would go against the country’s laws. However, it was not related to a separate sale of Leopard-1 tanks of the Swiss army to the German company Rheinmetall AG. Under the proposed terms of the sale, these tanks cannot be sent to Ukraine but could be used to replace tanks that Germany is sending from its own stock. (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.

Neutral Switzerland, Austria to join German-led European Sky Shield defence initiative

At least eight people were killed after Russian artillery shelling hit Ukraine’s Donetsk region on Saturday (July 8), said Kyiv’s interior ministry. Meanwhile, in his first appearance since the Wagner mutiny, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu inspected troops and oversaw training, said the ministry.&nbsp;

<h2>At least eight killed in Russian shelling</h2>

The regional governor of the eastern Ukrainian city of Lyman, Pavlo Kyrylenko took to the Telegram messaging app and said that the attack took place at around 10:00 am (local time) and “the Russians struck the town with multiple rocket launchers”.&nbsp;

According to the Ukrainian official, the Russian shelling also hit a residential area in the small city. “A house and a shop were damaged. Police are working on the site,” said Kyrylenko.&nbsp;

In an update later, Ukraine’s interior ministry said at least eight people were killed and the number of those injured also rose to 13. The ministry, on social media, also said that a residential building, an annexe to a printing house and three cars were set on fire in the attack, reported AFP.&nbsp;

In a recent update, the Ukrainian forces also said that they repelled Russian troops’ assault attempts near Lyman amid the counteroffensive launched by Kyiv, last month.&nbsp;

<h2>Russian defence minister inspects troops</h2>

The Russian defence ministry, on Saturday, said Shoigu inspected troops and oversaw the training of the newly formed units made up of contracted servicemen. Notably, it was the defence minister’s first public appearance since last month’s aborted mutiny by the Wagner mercenary group.

“The Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation personally checked the training of contract servicemen in combat operations in various conditions, including urban combat,” said the defence ministry, on Saturday.&nbsp;

The Russian ministry also released footage on Telegram which shows Shoigu in khaki military fatigues inspecting soldiers at a shooting range, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

This also comes days after Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev claimed more than 185,000 new recruits have joined Moscow’s army as professional contract soldiers since the beginning of this year.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukrainian shelling in Russian-controlled Donetsk region injures&nbsp;two civilians</h2>

A report by Russian news agency TASS, on Friday, citing officials said two civilians were wounded in the Russian-controlled part of Donetsk as a result of shelling by Ukrainian troops, who reportedly fired a total of eight such shells.&nbsp;

According to the mission of what Russia refers to as the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR), a 155mm shell fired by Ukrainian troops hit a shopping mall in the region, while another shell hit a multi-apartment building nearby and two more houses were damaged.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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.

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At least eight people were killed after Russian artillery shelling hit Ukraine’s Donetsk region on Saturday (July 8), said Kyiv’s interior ministry. Meanwhile, in his first appearance since the Wagner mutiny, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu inspected troops and oversaw training, said the ministry.

At least eight people were killed after Russian artillery shelling hit Ukraine’s Donetsk region on Saturday (July 8), said Kyiv’s interior ministry. Meanwhile, in his first appearance since the Wagner mutiny, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu inspected troops and oversaw training, said the ministry. At least eight killed in Russian shelling The regional governor of the eastern Ukrainian city of Lyman, Pavlo Kyrylenko took to the Telegram messaging app and said that the attack took place at around 10:00 am (local time) and “the Russians struck the town with multiple rocket launchers”. According to the Ukrainian official, the Russian shelling also hit a residential area in the small city. “A house and a shop were damaged. Police are working on the site,” said Kyrylenko. In an update later, Ukraine’s interior ministry said at least eight people were killed and the number of those injured also rose to 13. The ministry, on social media, also said that a residential building, an annexe to a printing house and three cars were set on fire in the attack, reported AFP. In a recent update, the Ukrainian forces also said that they repelled Russian troops’ assault attempts near Lyman amid the counteroffensive launched by Kyiv, last month. Russian defence minister inspects troops The Russian defence ministry, on Saturday, said Shoigu inspected troops and oversaw the training of the newly formed units made up of contracted servicemen. Notably, it was the defence minister’s first public appearance since last month’s aborted mutiny by the Wagner mercenary group. “The Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation personally checked the training of contract servicemen in combat operations in various conditions, including urban combat,” said the defence ministry, on Saturday. The Russian ministry also released footage on Telegram which shows Shoigu in khaki military fatigues inspecting soldiers at a shooting range, reported Reuters. This also comes days after Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev claimed more than 185,000 new recruits have joined Moscow’s army as professional contract soldiers since the beginning of this year. Ukrainian shelling in Russian-controlled Donetsk region injures two civilians A report by Russian news agency TASS, on Friday, citing officials said two civilians were wounded in the Russian-controlled part of Donetsk as a result of shelling by Ukrainian troops, who reportedly fired a total of eight such shells. According to the mission of what Russia refers to as the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR), a 155mm shell fired by Ukrainian troops hit a shopping mall in the region, while another shell hit a multi-apartment building nearby and two more houses were damaged. (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.

At least eight killed, 13 injured in Russian shelling at residential area in eastern Ukraine

A recent report by B4Ukraine and the Kyiv School of Economics shed light on the financial activities of global corporations operating in Russia, exposing their significant revenues and minimal tax contributions. The report suggests that these corporations, some claiming to have exited the Russian market, indirectly fund the ongoing conflict and severe breaches of international human rights and humanitarian law in Ukraine. The findings raise concerns about the ethical implications of their operations and the role of corporate finance in sustaining regional tensions.

Revenue and Tax Contributions

According to the report, global corporations accumulated over $213.9 billion in revenues from their local Russian businesses in 2022, generating profits of $14.1 billion. Surprisingly, the companies paid a mere $3.1 billion in profit tax, potentially underestimating their total tax bill. These findings indicate a substantial disconnect between their substantial revenues and minimal tax contributions.

The report highlights that companies headquartered in European Union (EU) member states alone earned $75.2 billion in 2022. However, their profit tax payment amounted to just $594 million, revealing a significant disparity. Meanwhile, U.S. companies emerged as the largest contributors to the Kremlin's coffers, collecting the highest total revenues in Russia and paying $712 million in profit tax. German companies followed closely, contributing $402 million in profit tax. In total, G7 and EU countries represented 16 out of the top 20 contributors to profit tax in Russia during the same period.

Industries and Essential Goods

The report further identifies the industries that witnessed the highest revenues in Russia in 2022. Alcohol and tobacco, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), and automobiles emerged as the top sectors. Notably, the FMCG sector accounted for over $21 billion in revenues. Major European brands, including Unilever, Danone, and Nestlé, were prominent players in this sector. Despite scaling back some of their activities since the invasion, these companies have chosen to maintain a presence in Russia. Their argument for remaining is often centered around the 'essential'&nbsp;nature of the goods they supply. However, the report highlights concerns regarding the broadening definition of 'essential,' which now encompasses products like shampoo, aftershave, and confectionery. Many companies were reluctant to disclose the criteria they used to classify goods as essential or non-essential.

Implications and Global Responsibility

The findings of the report raise serious questions about the indirect financing of the conflict and human rights abuses in Ukraine by global corporations. The disproportionately low tax contributions compared to their substantial revenues suggest a potential lack of accountability and responsibility. As tensions in the region continue to escalate, the role of these corporations in financially supporting the conflict becomes a matter of global concern. The impact extends beyond profit and tax figures, directly affecting human rights and international relations.

The report serves as a call to action, urging corporations to reassess their operations and take responsibility for the consequences of their financial activities. Transparency and ethical considerations should guide their decision-making processes, particularly regarding engagement in regions marred by conflict and human rights concerns.

(With Inputs from Agencies)

A recent report by B4Ukraine and the Kyiv School of Economics shed light on the financial activities of global corporations operating in Russia, exposing their significant revenues and minimal tax contributions.

A recent report by B4Ukraine and the Kyiv School of Economics shed light on the financial activities of global corporations operating in Russia, exposing their significant revenues and minimal tax contributions. The report suggests that these corporations, some claiming to have exited the Russian market, indirectly fund the ongoing conflict and severe breaches of international human rights and humanitarian law in Ukraine. The findings raise concerns about the ethical implications of their operations and the role of corporate finance in sustaining regional tensions. Revenue and Tax Contributions According to the report, global corporations accumulated over $213.9 billion in revenues from their local Russian businesses in 2022, generating profits of $14.1 billion. Surprisingly, the companies paid a mere $3.1 billion in profit tax, potentially underestimating their total tax bill. These findings indicate a substantial disconnect between their substantial revenues and minimal tax contributions. The report highlights that companies headquartered in European Union (EU) member states alone earned $75.2 billion in 2022. However, their profit tax payment amounted to just $594 million, revealing a significant disparity. Meanwhile, U.S. companies emerged as the largest contributors to the Kremlin's coffers, collecting the highest total revenues in Russia and paying $712 million in profit tax. German companies followed closely, contributing $402 million in profit tax. In total, G7 and EU countries represented 16 out of the top 20 contributors to profit tax in Russia during the same period. Industries and Essential Goods The report further identifies the industries that witnessed the highest revenues in Russia in 2022. Alcohol and tobacco, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), and automobiles emerged as the top sectors. Notably, the FMCG sector accounted for over $21 billion in revenues. Major European brands, including Unilever, Danone, and Nestlé, were prominent players in this sector. Despite scaling back some of their activities since the invasion, these companies have chosen to maintain a presence in Russia. Their argument for remaining is often centered around the 'essential' nature of the goods they supply. However, the report highlights concerns regarding the broadening definition of 'essential,' which now encompasses products like shampoo, aftershave, and confectionery. Many companies were reluctant to disclose the criteria they used to classify goods as essential or non-essential. Implications and Global Responsibility The findings of the report raise serious questions about the indirect financing of the conflict and human rights abuses in Ukraine by global corporations. The disproportionately low tax contributions compared to their substantial revenues suggest a potential lack of accountability and responsibility. As tensions in the region continue to escalate, the role of these corporations in financially supporting the conflict becomes a matter of global concern. The impact extends beyond profit and tax figures, directly affecting human rights and international relations. The report serves as a call to action, urging corporations to reassess their operations and take responsibility for the consequences of their financial activities. Transparency and ethical considerations should guide their decision-making processes, particularly regarding engagement in regions marred by conflict and human rights concerns. (With Inputs from Agencies)

Funding the Fire: Multinationals' Profits and the Flames of Conflict in Ukraine

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, on Friday (July 7), said that Turkey would “make the best decision, whatever it is,” when asked about Sweden’s bid to join the&nbsp;United States-led military alliance ahead of&nbsp;the next week’s NATO summit in Vilnius. Meanwhile, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said there are still “gaps” to bridge between Turkey and Sweden for Ankara to give Stockholm the go ahead for its accession.&nbsp;

<h2>Will Turkey support Sweden’s membership bid?</h2>

The recent comments by Erdogan, on Friday, came ahead of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit have left the possibility for Turkey to support Sweden’s bid to join NATO. The talks with the Ukrainian president are to focus on the Russian invasion and the US-led military alliance’s expansion, as per reports.&nbsp;

NATO member Turkey’s indecision and reluctance on Sweden’s accession to the alliance has left Washington and Brussels irritated as they argue that Stockholm has done enough to address Ankara’s concerns. However, Erdogan reiterated his concerns, on Friday, and said, “How a country with terrorists on the streets...can contribute to NATO.”&nbsp;

The comments by the Turkish president were made in reference to Stockholm’s perceived lax attitude toward alleged Kurdish militants living in Sweden. However, Erdogan also did not deny the possibility of accepting Sweden’s membership bid which he said would be further discussed with the Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, on Monday ahead of the upcoming summit.&nbsp;

<h2>Stoltenberg about the ‘gaps’ to bridge between Turkey and Sweden</h2>

The NATO-organised talks between the two countries will take place a day, on Monday, ahead of the military alliance’s leadership summit in the Lithuanian capital city of Vilnius. “On Tuesday in the leadership summit to be held in Vilnius, we will be discussing (Turkey’s concerns) with our partners. We will make the best decision, whatever it is,” said Erdogan.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, NATO chief Stoltenberg, on Friday said there are still “gaps” to be bridged between Turkey and Sweden before the former can give its go ahead for the latter’s membership bid. Addressing a press conference ahead of next week’s summit, Stoltenberg said again he would meet Swedish and Turkish leaders a day before the gathering officially starts on July 11-12.&nbsp;

<h2>Zelensky about Ukraine, Sweden's bid to join NATO</h2>

The Ukrainian president who is in the midst of visiting several NATO states, drummed up support for its membership bid. Zelensky travelled to the Czech Republic and Slovakia a day after holding talks in Bulgaria. He is also due to visit Istanbul and meet his Turkish counterpart, later on Friday.&nbsp;

While he was in Slovakia, Zelensky on Friday called on NATO to resolve the issue of Sweden and Ukraine’s membership bid and said that the indecision is a “threat” to global security. “I think there is not enough unity on this,” said Zelensky, during a press conference. He added, “This is a threat to the strength of the alliance…is (also) very important for the security of the whole world.”&nbsp;

Kyiv is also expecting some “positive results or at least some steps towards the positive outcome” from the upcoming summit in Vilnius, said the Ukrainian president. Zelensky also said the “situation with the aggressor, with Russia depends on this,” as Moscow is “counting on the world to show weakness and disunity in the Alliance, and this cannot be allowed.”&nbsp;

Zelensky has won a pledge of support for Ukraine to join NATO “as soon as the war (with Russia) is over,” from the Czech Republic. Additionally, Slovakia said the question of Kyiv’s membership was “when,” not “if”.&nbsp;

This comes as Stoltenberg reiterated that Ukraine would become a member but the alliance remains divided over how fast should Kyiv’s inclusion happen while others are concerned about provoking Russia. While Zelensky has acknowledged that they cannot join the alliance while the war with Russia is still going on, Kyiv needs “a clear signal, some concrete things in the direction of an invitation,” said the Ukrainian president, on Thursday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, on Friday (July 7), said that Turkey would “make the best decision, whatever it is,” when asked about Sweden’s bid to join the United States-led military alliance ahead of the next week’s NATO summit in Vilnius.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, on Friday (July 7), said that Turkey would “make the best decision, whatever it is,” when asked about Sweden’s bid to join the United States-led military alliance ahead of the next week’s NATO summit in Vilnius. Meanwhile, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said there are still “gaps” to bridge between Turkey and Sweden for Ankara to give Stockholm the go ahead for its accession. Will Turkey support Sweden’s membership bid? The recent comments by Erdogan, on Friday, came ahead of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit have left the possibility for Turkey to support Sweden’s bid to join NATO. The talks with the Ukrainian president are to focus on the Russian invasion and the US-led military alliance’s expansion, as per reports. NATO member Turkey’s indecision and reluctance on Sweden’s accession to the alliance has left Washington and Brussels irritated as they argue that Stockholm has done enough to address Ankara’s concerns. However, Erdogan reiterated his concerns, on Friday, and said, “How a country with terrorists on the streets...can contribute to NATO.” The comments by the Turkish president were made in reference to Stockholm’s perceived lax attitude toward alleged Kurdish militants living in Sweden. However, Erdogan also did not deny the possibility of accepting Sweden’s membership bid which he said would be further discussed with the Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, on Monday ahead of the upcoming summit. Stoltenberg about the ‘gaps’ to bridge between Turkey and Sweden The NATO-organised talks between the two countries will take place a day, on Monday, ahead of the military alliance’s leadership summit in the Lithuanian capital city of Vilnius. “On Tuesday in the leadership summit to be held in Vilnius, we will be discussing (Turkey’s concerns) with our partners. We will make the best decision, whatever it is,” said Erdogan. Meanwhile, NATO chief Stoltenberg, on Friday said there are still “gaps” to be bridged between Turkey and Sweden before the former can give its go ahead for the latter’s membership bid. Addressing a press conference ahead of next week’s summit, Stoltenberg said again he would meet Swedish and Turkish leaders a day before the gathering officially starts on July 11-12. Zelensky about Ukraine, Sweden's bid to join NATO The Ukrainian president who is in the midst of visiting several NATO states, drummed up support for its membership bid. Zelensky travelled to the Czech Republic and Slovakia a day after holding talks in Bulgaria. He is also due to visit Istanbul and meet his Turkish counterpart, later on Friday. While he was in Slovakia, Zelensky on Friday called on NATO to resolve the issue of Sweden and Ukraine’s membership bid and said that the indecision is a “threat” to global security. “I think there is not enough unity on this,” said Zelensky, during a press conference. He added, “This is a threat to the strength of the alliance…is (also) very important for the security of the whole world.” Kyiv is also expecting some “positive results or at least some steps towards the positive outcome” from the upcoming summit in Vilnius, said the Ukrainian president. Zelensky also said the “situation with the aggressor, with Russia depends on this,” as Moscow is “counting on the world to show weakness and disunity in the Alliance, and this cannot be allowed.” Zelensky has won a pledge of support for Ukraine to join NATO “as soon as the war (with Russia) is over,” from the Czech Republic. Additionally, Slovakia said the question of Kyiv’s membership was “when,” not “if”. This comes as Stoltenberg reiterated that Ukraine would become a member but the alliance remains divided over how fast should Kyiv’s inclusion happen while others are concerned about provoking Russia. While Zelensky has acknowledged that they cannot join the alliance while the war with Russia is still going on, Kyiv needs “a clear signal, some concrete things in the direction of an invitation,” said the Ukrainian president, on Thursday. (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.

Turkey remains indecisive on Sweden’s NATO bid; Stoltenberg to bridge ‘gaps’ between countries

Amidst a struggling oil market, Saudi Arabia and Russia, the world's leading oil producers, have intensified their focus on achieving market stability while positioning themselves to spearhead initiatives that can provide much-needed support to the flagging oil market.

Prince Abdulaziz Bin Salman, the Saudi Arabian energy minister, said at a conference on Wednesday that his nation's collaboration with Russia as a member of the OPEC+ alliance is "going strong" and that it "will do whatever is necessary" to stabilise the market.

The OPEC+ alliance, consisting of 23 oil-producing nations responsible for approximately 40 percent of the world's crude oil production, has actively engaged in implementing deliberate cuts to their production levels with the objective of boosting prices.

Saudi Arabia and Russia on Monday deepened their cuts in monthly oil supply.&nbsp;The move came amid&nbsp;concerns over a global economic slowdown and a further rate hike by the US Federal Reserve.&nbsp;

While the oil-rich West Asian kingdom has extended its voluntary oil output cut of one million barrels per day till August, adding that the cut could also be extended beyond that month.&nbsp;

Almost immediately after the Saudi announcement, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said his sanctions-hit country would cut oil exports by 500,000 barrels per day in August.

However, after a brief spurt in prices, oil prices remained flat at $76.30 per barrel, failing to surpass the crucial threshold of $80-$100 per barrel. This range is considered necessary for many OPEC nations to balance their budgets.&nbsp;

In response to market conditions, the 23-member oil producers group clarified that it does not have specific price targets in mind. Instead, the alliance argued that it wants to achieve a balanced oil market that serves the best interests of both consumers and producers.

Amidst a struggling oil market, Saudi Arabia and Russia, the world's leading oil producers, have intensified their focus on achieving market stability while positioning themselves to spearhead initiatives that can provide much-needed support to the flagging oil market.

Amidst a struggling oil market, Saudi Arabia and Russia, the world's leading oil producers, have intensified their focus on achieving market stability while positioning themselves to spearhead initiatives that can provide much-needed support to the flagging oil market. Prince Abdulaziz Bin Salman, the Saudi Arabian energy minister, said at a conference on Wednesday that his nation's collaboration with Russia as a member of the OPEC+ alliance is "going strong" and that it "will do whatever is necessary" to stabilise the market. The OPEC+ alliance, consisting of 23 oil-producing nations responsible for approximately 40 percent of the world's crude oil production, has actively engaged in implementing deliberate cuts to their production levels with the objective of boosting prices. Saudi Arabia and Russia on Monday deepened their cuts in monthly oil supply. The move came amid concerns over a global economic slowdown and a further rate hike by the US Federal Reserve. While the oil-rich West Asian kingdom has extended its voluntary oil output cut of one million barrels per day till August, adding that the cut could also be extended beyond that month. Almost immediately after the Saudi announcement, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said his sanctions-hit country would cut oil exports by 500,000 barrels per day in August. However, after a brief spurt in prices, oil prices remained flat at $76.30 per barrel, failing to surpass the crucial threshold of $80-$100 per barrel. This range is considered necessary for many OPEC nations to balance their budgets. In response to market conditions, the 23-member oil producers group clarified that it does not have specific price targets in mind. Instead, the alliance argued that it wants to achieve a balanced oil market that serves the best interests of both consumers and producers.

Saudi Arabia says cooperation with Russia over oil 'going strong'

Wigs, guns and gold bars: Russian security raids Wagner boss Prigozhin's St Petersburg palace

Russia and Ukraine on Wednesday accused each other of planning to attack the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in southern Ukraine as concerns were raised over the plant being the target of fresh artillery and rocket attacks. In South Asia, at least seven people died as incessant rains battered Pakistan’s Lahore city on Wednesday, breaking a 30-year record.

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nuclear-tensions-rise-after-russia-ukraine-trade-barbs-over-attack-on-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-612361">Nuclear tensions rise after Russia, Ukraine trade barbs over probable attacks on Zaporizhzhia plant</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/05/364762-nuke-1.JPG?imwidth=1920" />

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday claimed that he has credible intelligence reports to suggest that Russian troops placed “objects resembling explosives” on top of several power units to “simulate” an attack as part of a false flag operation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-seven-die-as-incessant-rain-batters-pakistans-lahore-breaks-30-year-record-612323">At least seven die as incessant rain batters Pakistan’s Lahore, breaks 30-year record</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/05/364738-train-5.png?imwidth=1920" />

Lahore received 291mm of rain, and over a dozen areas recorded more than 200mm of rain, Commissioner Lahore Mohammad Ali Randhawa said, Geo News reported.&nbsp;Randhawa said that this is the first time that a large amount of rainfall is being witnessed in such a short amount of time, something that has not been seen for the past 30 years.&nbsp;He attributed the sudden downpours to climate change and strong monsoons.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-xi-jinping-personally-warn-vladimir-putin-against-nuclear-attack-in-ukraine-612226">Did Xi Jinping personally warn Vladimir Putin against nuclear attack in Ukraine?</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/22/340378-vladimir-putin-and-xi-jinping.png?imwidth=1920" />

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war sparked massive concerns over the nuclear attack. As the world continues to fear that the next nuclear disaster could be in Eastern&nbsp;Europe, a report by the Financial Times mentioned that Chinese President Xi Jinping warned his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin against the use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-boosts-africa-lending-to-counter-china-in-expanding-its-influence-in-worlds-second-largest-continent-612340">India boosts Africa lending to counter China in expanding its influence in world’s second-largest continent</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/05/364750-succession-2023-07-05t184015582.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Africa has become the second-largest recipient of credit from India as the country is making efforts to catch up with China in growing its impact in the resource-rich continent, as per a new report.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fukushima-nuclear-plant-water-release-is-safe-says-iaea-chief-612362">Fukushima nuclear plant water release is safe, says IAEA chief</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/05/364705-untitled-design-2023-07-05t170522681.png?imwidth=1920" />

The chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Wednesday (July 5) sought to reassure local residents and representatives that the planned release of treated wastewater from Fukushima nuclear plant is safe. The IAEA has approved the planned, decades-long water discharge from the devastated nuclear plant. The UN nuclear energy watchdog has said that the discharge meets the global standard.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-lionel-messi-still-gets-paid-by-barcelona-and-will-continue-to-do-so-for-two-more-years-heres-why-612369">Football: Lionel Messi still gets paid by Barcelona and will continue to do so for two more years. Here's why</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/01/355997-untitled-design-2023-06-01t120711557.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Argentina's football superstar Lionel Messi shocked everyone when he left his long-time football club Barcelona in 2021. He again gave a shock to fans this year when he decided to leave Ligue 1 club Paris Saint Germain (PSG) to join Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami. Messi's America move came amid news of La Liga giants Barcelona trying to get him back.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/eye-of-the-beholder-chinese-man-creates-website-rating-attractiveness-of-university-students-612289">'Eye of the beholder?': Chinese man detained for creating website rating attractiveness of university students</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/05/364711-new-wion-70.png?imwidth=1920" />

In China, a man has been detained by the police for stealing university data to create a website that compared and rated students on their physical appearance and attractiveness. The idea is pretty similar to FaceMash, the website created by Mark Zuckerberg, which in a similar manner allowed users to compare students from his alma mater Harvard.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eight-activists-now-based-overseas-to-be-pursued-for-life-hong-kong-leader-612314">Eight activists now based overseas to be 'pursued for life': Hong Kong leader</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/05/364732-john-lee.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Hong Kong chief executive John Lee said on Tuesday (July 4) that eight Hong Kong activists who have gone overseas would be "pursued for life". There are arrest warrants against these activists for alleged national security offences. Hong Kong Police issued arrest warrants against these activists on Monday. The national security offences against them include foreign collusion and incitement to secession. The police have offered rewards for any information that'll lead to their arrest.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-sweden-ukraine-and-britain-take-iran-to-uns-top-court-over-shooting-down-plane-that-killed-176-612376">Canada, Sweden, Ukraine and Britain take Iran to UN's top court over shooting down plane that killed 176</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/05/364770-succession-2023-07-05t190513260.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Canada, Sweden, Ukraine and Britain on Wednesday, took Iran to the International Court of Justice in order to seek damages for families of passengers on a plane that was shot down by Tehran in the year 2020, said the tribunal. The incident had claimed the lives of all 176 people aboard the Ukrainian jetliner downed by Iran.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/odisha-train-mishap-centre-compromised-on-safety-claims-congress-612293">Odisha train tragedy: Centre compromised on safety, alleges Congress</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/05/364714-untitled-design-2023-07-05t171221543.png?imwidth=1920" />

Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Wednesday lashed out at the government, saying that the “sabotage theory” floated after the Balasore train accident was to “escape accountability”. He said that it was pretty clear that the sabotage theory floated by the Prime Minister and Railway Minister is “to escape accountability and manage headlines”.

Russia and Ukraine on Wednesday accused each other of planning to attack the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in southern Ukraine as concerns were raised over the plant being the target of fresh artillery and rocket attacks.

Russia and Ukraine on Wednesday accused each other of planning to attack the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in southern Ukraine as concerns were raised over the plant being the target of fresh artillery and rocket attacks. In South Asia, at least seven people died as incessant rains battered Pakistan’s Lahore city on Wednesday, breaking a 30-year record. Click on the headlines to read more: Nuclear tensions rise after Russia, Ukraine trade barbs over probable attacks on Zaporizhzhia plant Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday claimed that he has credible intelligence reports to suggest that Russian troops placed “objects resembling explosives” on top of several power units to “simulate” an attack as part of a false flag operation. At least seven die as incessant rain batters Pakistan’s Lahore, breaks 30-year record Lahore received 291mm of rain, and over a dozen areas recorded more than 200mm of rain, Commissioner Lahore Mohammad Ali Randhawa said, Geo News reported. Randhawa said that this is the first time that a large amount of rainfall is being witnessed in such a short amount of time, something that has not been seen for the past 30 years. He attributed the sudden downpours to climate change and strong monsoons. Did Xi Jinping personally warn Vladimir Putin against nuclear attack in Ukraine? The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war sparked massive concerns over the nuclear attack. As the world continues to fear that the next nuclear disaster could be in Eastern Europe, a report by the Financial Times mentioned that Chinese President Xi Jinping warned his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin against the use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine. India boosts Africa lending to counter China in expanding its influence in world’s second-largest continent Africa has become the second-largest recipient of credit from India as the country is making efforts to catch up with China in growing its impact in the resource-rich continent, as per a new report. Fukushima nuclear plant water release is safe, says IAEA chief The chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Wednesday (July 5) sought to reassure local residents and representatives that the planned release of treated wastewater from Fukushima nuclear plant is safe. The IAEA has approved the planned, decades-long water discharge from the devastated nuclear plant. The UN nuclear energy watchdog has said that the discharge meets the global standard. Football: Lionel Messi still gets paid by Barcelona and will continue to do so for two more years. Here's why Argentina's football superstar Lionel Messi shocked everyone when he left his long-time football club Barcelona in 2021. He again gave a shock to fans this year when he decided to leave Ligue 1 club Paris Saint Germain (PSG) to join Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami. Messi's America move came amid news of La Liga giants Barcelona trying to get him back. 'Eye of the beholder?': Chinese man detained for creating website rating attractiveness of university students In China, a man has been detained by the police for stealing university data to create a website that compared and rated students on their physical appearance and attractiveness. The idea is pretty similar to FaceMash, the website created by Mark Zuckerberg, which in a similar manner allowed users to compare students from his alma mater Harvard. Eight activists now based overseas to be 'pursued for life': Hong Kong leader Hong Kong chief executive John Lee said on Tuesday (July 4) that eight Hong Kong activists who have gone overseas would be "pursued for life". There are arrest warrants against these activists for alleged national security offences. Hong Kong Police issued arrest warrants against these activists on Monday. The national security offences against them include foreign collusion and incitement to secession. The police have offered rewards for any information that'll lead to their arrest. Canada, Sweden, Ukraine and Britain take Iran to UN's top court over shooting down plane that killed 176 Canada, Sweden, Ukraine and Britain on Wednesday, took Iran to the International Court of Justice in order to seek damages for families of passengers on a plane that was shot down by Tehran in the year 2020, said the tribunal. The incident had claimed the lives of all 176 people aboard the Ukrainian jetliner downed by Iran. Odisha train tragedy: Centre compromised on safety, alleges Congress Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Wednesday lashed out at the government, saying that the “sabotage theory” floated after the Balasore train accident was to “escape accountability”. He said that it was pretty clear that the sabotage theory floated by the Prime Minister and Railway Minister is “to escape accountability and manage headlines”.

Top 10 world news: Nuclear tensions rise between Russia, Ukraine; incessant rains kill 7 in Pakistan, and more

According to Ukrainian officials, at least 38 people, including 12 children, were injured after a Russian missile strike in the northeastern Kharkiv region, on Tuesday (July 4). Meanwhile, Kyiv has also reported a “particularly fruitful” few days for the Ukrainian counteroffensive against Russian forces.&nbsp;

Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, on Tuesday, said that 185,000 new recruits have joined Moscow’s army as professional contract soldiers since the beginning of this year.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<h2>Russian missile strike in Kharkiv</h2>

Ukrainian officials reported that at least 38 people, including 12 children, were wounded after a Russian missile hit the residential area in Pervomaiskyi. The strike using an Iskander missile took place at 1:35 pm (local time), said Regional governor Oleh Synehubov.

According to local prosecutors, the youngest child injured in the attack was three-months old. The child’s condition was not immediately known.&nbsp;The strike also took place hours after Russian shelling, on Tuesday morning, killed a man and a woman in the Ukrainian city of Kherson, according to local prosecutors.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-grounds-to-renew-ukraine-grain-deal-says-russia-611931">&nbsp;'No grounds' to renew Ukraine grain deal, says Russia</a>

A report by Reuters citing television footage said that the tall residential building in the small Ukrainian town of Pervomaiskyi was seen with smashed windows and black smoke pouring out. Additionally, cars damaged by the strike and flames were also seen nearby while a man sat in an ambulance with blood over his face, reported the news agency.&nbsp;

“I only remember that when the explosion sounded, we were thrown up into the air…I just can’t get a grip of myself, my legs are still shaking,” said a local resident, who only gave her name as Alla, according to Reuters.&nbsp;

The former commander of the Azov battalion, which is now a part of the Ukrainian army, Major Maksym Zhorin, said that the Russian strike targeted a military funeral of soldier Oleh Fadeenko. The Ukrainian soldier was said to have been killed in combat near Bakhmut.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-accuses-georgia-of-torturing-jailed-ex-president-saakashvili-tells-georgian-ambassador-to-go-home-611904">Ukraine accuses Georgia of 'torturing' jailed ex-president Saakashvili, tells Georgian ambassador to go home</a>

“They targeted the site where the ceremony was taking place,” said Zhorin, on Telegram. A report by Reuters citing television footage said that around 100 people have gathered for the Ukrainian soldier’s funeral in Pervomaiskyi, some in uniform and some in civilian clothes.

<h2>Kyiv reports ‘particularly fruitful’ days in Ukrainian counteroffensive</h2>

Secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defence Council, Oleksiy Danilov took to Twitter on Tuesday and wrote, “At this stage of active hostilities, Ukraine’s Defense Forces are fulfilling the number one task – the maximum destruction of manpower, equipment, fuel depots, military vehicles, command posts, artillery and air defense forces of the Russian army.”&nbsp;

He added, “The last few days have been particularly fruitful.” However, no other details were provided from the battlefield. This comes as Ukraine launched its long-awaited counteroffensive last month.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-ukraine-attacked-moscow-with-at-least-five-drones-611688">Russia claims Ukraine attacked Moscow with at least five drones</a>

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Monday, had said that while the troops have made some progress recently, it has been a “difficult” week.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ukrainian military spokesperson Andriy Kovalev, on Tuesday reported that its forces are putting pressure on Russian soldiers north and south of Bakhmut and witnessed “partial success”.&nbsp;

Ukrainian forces also managed to hold back an attempted advance by Russian forces in the eastern regions of Lyman, Avdiivka and Marinka, said Kovalev.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-detains-a-man-it-says-ukraine-sent-to-assassinate-crimeas-head-611416">Russia detains a man it says Ukraine sent to assassinate Crimea's head</a>

<h2>185,000 new contract soldiers have joined Russian army in 2023</h2>

Medvedev, on Tuesday, citing data from the Russian defence ministry, said more than 185,000 people were accepted into the military between January 1 to July 4, reported Reuters. He added, out of which “about 109,000 are in the reserve, as well as other categories of citizens who are called up to serve under contract.”&nbsp;

This comes amid reports of Russia suffering heavy losses in Ukraine, which Moscow has not acknowledged. The claims by the former Russian president were made in a video posted on Telegram which also said that almost 10,000 new recruits had joined since the Wagner mutiny.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-military-raided-wagner-bases-in-syria-detained-fighters-and-leaders-reports-611461">Russian military raided Wagner bases in Syria, detained fighters and leaders: Reports</a> 
 
The “attempted armed rebellion did not change the attitude of citizens to contract service,” for what Russia calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine, said Medvedev.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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.

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According to Ukrainian officials, at least 38 people, including 12 children, were injured after a Russian missile strike in the northeastern Kharkiv region, on Tuesday (July 4).

According to Ukrainian officials, at least 38 people, including 12 children, were injured after a Russian missile strike in the northeastern Kharkiv region, on Tuesday (July 4). Meanwhile, Kyiv has also reported a “particularly fruitful” few days for the Ukrainian counteroffensive against Russian forces. Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, on Tuesday, said that 185,000 new recruits have joined Moscow’s army as professional contract soldiers since the beginning of this year. Russian missile strike in Kharkiv Ukrainian officials reported that at least 38 people, including 12 children, were wounded after a Russian missile hit the residential area in Pervomaiskyi. The strike using an Iskander missile took place at 1:35 pm (local time), said Regional governor Oleh Synehubov. According to local prosecutors, the youngest child injured in the attack was three-months old. The child’s condition was not immediately known. The strike also took place hours after Russian shelling, on Tuesday morning, killed a man and a woman in the Ukrainian city of Kherson, according to local prosecutors. ALSO READ | 'No grounds' to renew Ukraine grain deal, says Russia A report by Reuters citing television footage said that the tall residential building in the small Ukrainian town of Pervomaiskyi was seen with smashed windows and black smoke pouring out. Additionally, cars damaged by the strike and flames were also seen nearby while a man sat in an ambulance with blood over his face, reported the news agency. “I only remember that when the explosion sounded, we were thrown up into the air…I just can’t get a grip of myself, my legs are still shaking,” said a local resident, who only gave her name as Alla, according to Reuters. The former commander of the Azov battalion, which is now a part of the Ukrainian army, Major Maksym Zhorin, said that the Russian strike targeted a military funeral of soldier Oleh Fadeenko. The Ukrainian soldier was said to have been killed in combat near Bakhmut. ALSO READ | Ukraine accuses Georgia of 'torturing' jailed ex-president Saakashvili, tells Georgian ambassador to go home “They targeted the site where the ceremony was taking place,” said Zhorin, on Telegram. A report by Reuters citing television footage said that around 100 people have gathered for the Ukrainian soldier’s funeral in Pervomaiskyi, some in uniform and some in civilian clothes. Kyiv reports ‘particularly fruitful’ days in Ukrainian counteroffensive Secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defence Council, Oleksiy Danilov took to Twitter on Tuesday and wrote, “At this stage of active hostilities, Ukraine’s Defense Forces are fulfilling the number one task – the maximum destruction of manpower, equipment, fuel depots, military vehicles, command posts, artillery and air defense forces of the Russian army.” He added, “The last few days have been particularly fruitful.” However, no other details were provided from the battlefield. This comes as Ukraine launched its long-awaited counteroffensive last month. ALSO READ | Russia claims Ukraine attacked Moscow with at least five drones Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Monday, had said that while the troops have made some progress recently, it has been a “difficult” week. Meanwhile, Ukrainian military spokesperson Andriy Kovalev, on Tuesday reported that its forces are putting pressure on Russian soldiers north and south of Bakhmut and witnessed “partial success”. Ukrainian forces also managed to hold back an attempted advance by Russian forces in the eastern regions of Lyman, Avdiivka and Marinka, said Kovalev. ALSO READ | Russia detains a man it says Ukraine sent to assassinate Crimea's head 185,000 new contract soldiers have joined Russian army in 2023 Medvedev, on Tuesday, citing data from the Russian defence ministry, said more than 185,000 people were accepted into the military between January 1 to July 4, reported Reuters. He added, out of which “about 109,000 are in the reserve, as well as other categories of citizens who are called up to serve under contract.” This comes amid reports of Russia suffering heavy losses in Ukraine, which Moscow has not acknowledged. The claims by the former Russian president were made in a video posted on Telegram which also said that almost 10,000 new recruits had joined since the Wagner mutiny. ALSO READ | Russian military raided Wagner bases in Syria, detained fighters and leaders: Reports The “attempted armed rebellion did not change the attitude of citizens to contract service,” for what Russia calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine, said Medvedev. (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.

Ukraine: At least 38 people, including 12 children injured after Russian missile strike in Kharkiv

The Russian foreign ministry said on Tuesday (July 4) that Russia sees no basis for renewing Black Sea grain deal. The statement has come less than two weeks before the grain deal agreement expires. The agreement has allowed Ukraine to ship grain out of its Black Sea ports despite the ongoing war.

In its statement, the ministry has said that Russia was doing everything in order to facilitate departure of all ships covered by the deal from the Black Sea.

The grain deal expires on July 17.

Russia has, for long threatened to pull out of the agreement. It has been complaining that promises to remove barriers to its own exports of grain and fertiliser have not been fulfilled.

Watch | Russia blames Kyiv for drone attacks

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In mid-May, Russia agreed to renew the deal for two months. But after that, it has repeatedly said that it sees no basis to extend the deal again.

In its statement, the foreign ministry said the Black Sea initiative had delivered Ukrainian grain to "well-fed" countries but failed to help those that needed it most in Africa, Asia and Latin America.

The ministry said that the five poorest countries - Ethiopia, Yemen, Afghanistan, Sudan and Somalia - received only 2.6 per cent of the grain shipped while the situation pertaining to the Russian grain and fertiliser exports "continued to worsen"

"Under these conditions, it is obvious that there are no grounds for further continuation of the 'Black Sea Initiative', which expires on July 17," the statement said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prominent-russian-journalist-and-lawyer-brutally-attacked-in-chechnya-611907">Prominent Russian journalist and lawyer ‘brutally’ attacked in Chechnya</a>

Due to its massive grain output, Ukraine is often referred to as the 'bread basket' of the world. The Russian invasion of Ukraine made it difficult for grain shipments to traverse the Black Sea. This had raised the spectre of a global food crisis.

A grain deal was then struck which ensured safe passage for grain shipments. The initial deal was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey.

<h2>No progress on demands, says Russia</h2>

Russia claims that it has seen no progress on its demands including for its state agricultural bank to be reconnected to the international payments system SWIFT.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said that a reported EU proposal to create a subsidiary of the bank was 'unworkable'. The proposal suggests that the subsidiary could be admitted to SWIFT.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Russian foreign ministry said on Tuesday (July 4) that Russia sees no basis for renewing Black Sea grain deal. The statement has come less than two weeks before the grain deal agreement expires.

The Russian foreign ministry said on Tuesday (July 4) that Russia sees no basis for renewing Black Sea grain deal. The statement has come less than two weeks before the grain deal agreement expires. The agreement has allowed Ukraine to ship grain out of its Black Sea ports despite the ongoing war. In its statement, the ministry has said that Russia was doing everything in order to facilitate departure of all ships covered by the deal from the Black Sea. The grain deal expires on July 17. Russia has, for long threatened to pull out of the agreement. It has been complaining that promises to remove barriers to its own exports of grain and fertiliser have not been fulfilled. Watch | Russia blames Kyiv for drone attacks × In mid-May, Russia agreed to renew the deal for two months. But after that, it has repeatedly said that it sees no basis to extend the deal again. In its statement, the foreign ministry said the Black Sea initiative had delivered Ukrainian grain to "well-fed" countries but failed to help those that needed it most in Africa, Asia and Latin America. The ministry said that the five poorest countries - Ethiopia, Yemen, Afghanistan, Sudan and Somalia - received only 2.6 per cent of the grain shipped while the situation pertaining to the Russian grain and fertiliser exports "continued to worsen" "Under these conditions, it is obvious that there are no grounds for further continuation of the 'Black Sea Initiative', which expires on July 17," the statement said. Also Read | Prominent Russian journalist and lawyer ‘brutally’ attacked in Chechnya Due to its massive grain output, Ukraine is often referred to as the 'bread basket' of the world. The Russian invasion of Ukraine made it difficult for grain shipments to traverse the Black Sea. This had raised the spectre of a global food crisis. A grain deal was then struck which ensured safe passage for grain shipments. The initial deal was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey. No progress on demands, says Russia Russia claims that it has seen no progress on its demands including for its state agricultural bank to be reconnected to the international payments system SWIFT. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said that a reported EU proposal to create a subsidiary of the bank was 'unworkable'. The proposal suggests that the subsidiary could be admitted to SWIFT. (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 ×

'No grounds' to renew Ukraine grain deal, says Russia

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