Russia has extended&nbsp;Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich’s detention who was arrested back in March on espionage charges, reported the Russian state media. Meanwhile, Washington reiterated its call for Gershkovich’s release following the announcement, on Tuesday (May 23).&nbsp;

<h2>Detention extended</h2>

Russian state media reported that the US journalist, who was initially supposed to be in pre-trial detention until May 29, will now remain in custody&nbsp;for three more months, till August 30. Gershkovich has been accused of collecting state secrets about the Russian industrial-military&nbsp;complex and who Moscow claims to have caught “red-handed”.&nbsp;

According to CNN, Gershkovich’s parents were also present at the Lefortovo court in Moscow for the recent hearing. A Russian court last month denied bail to the American journalist who faces up to 20 years in prison after he appeared in a court in Moscow to appeal a decision to keep him in pre-trial detention.&nbsp;

<h2>US responds to the extension</h2>

The US has reiterated its calls for Gershkovich’s release. “He shouldn’t be detained at all. Journalism is not a crime,” said the White House national security spokesman John Kirby, in an interview with CNN. He added, “He needs to be released immediately.”&nbsp;

Kirby also said&nbsp;that Washington will continue to “work very, very hard to see if we can get him home with his family where he belongs.” He also indicated that the US officials are pushing for consular access to Gershkovich directly with the Russians, saying that “there are no grounds for denying consular access.”&nbsp;

<h2>Gershkovich denied bail</h2>

The US citizen, who was arrested&nbsp;on March 29&nbsp;by the Russian FSB security service in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg&nbsp;on espionage charges, had appealed a decision to keep him in pre-trial detention in a former KGB prison until the end of May. &nbsp;

The US also previously said that Gershkovich has been “wrongfully detained” and that the spy charges against him are bogus.&nbsp; President Joe Biden has called his imprisonment “totally illegal”.&nbsp; 
 
Notably, the WSJ reporter is the first foreign journalist arrested on spying allegations since the collapse of the Soviet Union. As per reports, Gershkovich is currently being held at the Lefortovo prison along with others accused of treason and espionage in Moscow which in Soviet times was run by the KGB but is now operated by the Federal Penitentiary Service. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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Russia has extended Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich’s detention who was arrested back in March on espionage charges, reported the Russian state media.

Russia has extended Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich’s detention who was arrested back in March on espionage charges, reported the Russian state media. Meanwhile, Washington reiterated its call for Gershkovich’s release following the announcement, on Tuesday (May 23). Detention extended Russian state media reported that the US journalist, who was initially supposed to be in pre-trial detention until May 29, will now remain in custody for three more months, till August 30. Gershkovich has been accused of collecting state secrets about the Russian industrial-military complex and who Moscow claims to have caught “red-handed”. According to CNN, Gershkovich’s parents were also present at the Lefortovo court in Moscow for the recent hearing. A Russian court last month denied bail to the American journalist who faces up to 20 years in prison after he appeared in a court in Moscow to appeal a decision to keep him in pre-trial detention. US responds to the extension The US has reiterated its calls for Gershkovich’s release. “He shouldn’t be detained at all. Journalism is not a crime,” said the White House national security spokesman John Kirby, in an interview with CNN. He added, “He needs to be released immediately.” Kirby also said that Washington will continue to “work very, very hard to see if we can get him home with his family where he belongs.” He also indicated that the US officials are pushing for consular access to Gershkovich directly with the Russians, saying that “there are no grounds for denying consular access.” Gershkovich denied bail The US citizen, who was arrested on March 29 by the Russian FSB security service in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg on espionage charges, had appealed a decision to keep him in pre-trial detention in a former KGB prison until the end of May. The US also previously said that Gershkovich has been “wrongfully detained” and that the spy charges against him are bogus. President Joe Biden has called his imprisonment “totally illegal”. Notably, the WSJ reporter is the first foreign journalist arrested on spying allegations since the collapse of the Soviet Union. As per reports, Gershkovich is currently being held at the Lefortovo prison along with others accused of treason and espionage in Moscow which in Soviet times was run by the KGB but is now operated by the Federal Penitentiary Service. (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 extends WSJ journalist Evan Gershkovich’s detention, US calls for immediate release

The Russian military, on Tuesday (May 23) said that it had crushed the cross-border attack from Ukraine after deploying jets and artillery to destroy an armed group a day after they attacked the border region with armoured vehicles. Moscow also claimed that it killed over 70 “Ukrainian nationalists” and destroyed four of their armoured vehicles.&nbsp;

As per media reports, in what might be one of the biggest incursions from Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s invasion over a year ago, two purported anti-Kremlin armed groups have claimed responsibility for the attack on Russia’s Belgorod region. While authorities in Moscow blamed Ukrainian officials for the attack, Kyiv has denied any involvement.&nbsp;

Ukrainian officials after the incident said that they are watching the situation as it develops but “has nothing to do with it”. Meanwhile, Ukrainian presidential advisor Mikhaylo Podolyak suggested that Russian “guerrilla groups” might&nbsp;be responsible for the Monday attack.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia responds to the incursion&nbsp;</h2>

The Russian military said it had deployed jets and artillery to destroy the armed group in what Moscow has described as a “counter-terrorist operation”. 
 
According to Russia-installed officials, at least 12 civilians were injured after what Moscow called a “sabotage” group incursion from Ukraine and introduced an “anti-terror regime” in the region of Belgorod.&nbsp;

Notably, the “anti-terror regime” grants special powers to security services while also imposing a number of restrictions and measures which include more security and communications surveillance in a region.&nbsp;

“In the course of the counter-terrorist operation, the nationalist formations were blocked and destroyed by air strikes and artillery fire,” said the Russian defence ministry in a statement. It also said that Russia killed more than 70 Ukrainian fighters and destroyed four armoured vehicles and five pick-up trucks.&nbsp;

It added, “The remnants of the nationalists were pushed back to Ukrainian territory, where they continued to be hit by gunfire until they were completely eliminated.” Earlier, local authorities had said the Belgorod region in Russia had come under sustained artillery and mortar fire by a group it claimed had crossed from Ukraine.&nbsp; 
 
Following the incident, Belgorod’s governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said that civilians from nine border villages had been evacuated. However, they haven't yet been asked to return. In response to the alleged attack, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, “What happened yesterday is a cause for deep concern and once again confirms that Ukrainian militants continue their activities against our country.”&nbsp; 
 
Gladkov also took to Telegram, on Tuesday, to report one death due to the incursion&nbsp;and said "To our great regret, we do have casualties. A peaceful civilian -&nbsp;a resident of the settlement of Kozinka, died at the hands of Ukrainian forces. Our most sincere condolences go to all their relatives and loved ones."&nbsp;

<h2>Two ‘anti-Kremlin’ groups claim responsibility</h2>

There are two groups which have claimed responsibility for the incursion – the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC) and the Freedom of Russia Legion, reported Reuters. The RVC is reportedly founded by Moscow-born Denis Kapustin, also known as Denis Nikitin, who has described himself as a nationalist fighting for a Russia that belongs to ethnic Russians, as per the news agency.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Freedom of Russia Legion is said to be a Ukraine-based Russian militia group which is reportedly led by Russian opposition figure Ilya Ponomarev. The group is working inside Russia to supposedly overthrow Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

A video released by a Telegram channel, seen by the news agency AFP, claims to represent one of the anti-Kremlin groups which shows a camouflaged spokesman, surrounded by armed men in fatigues. The footage in question was released on Monday, in which&nbsp;the person said “Russia will be free!” a slogan frequently used by the Russian opposition.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukrainian President&nbsp;visits&nbsp;eastern&nbsp;frontline</h2>

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Tuesday, visited the Marines on the eastern front line and also presented awards to the commanders of several&nbsp;units. “Happy Marines Day, especially to such strong people who are in one of the hottest but also one of the strongest… sectors – the Vuhledar-Marinka direction,” said the Ukrainian president, in a video posted on social media.&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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The Russian military, on Tuesday (May 23) said that it had crushed the cross-border attack from Ukraine after deploying jets and artillery to destroy an armed group a day after they attacked the border region with armoured vehicles.

The Russian military, on Tuesday (May 23) said that it had crushed the cross-border attack from Ukraine after deploying jets and artillery to destroy an armed group a day after they attacked the border region with armoured vehicles. Moscow also claimed that it killed over 70 “Ukrainian nationalists” and destroyed four of their armoured vehicles. As per media reports, in what might be one of the biggest incursions from Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s invasion over a year ago, two purported anti-Kremlin armed groups have claimed responsibility for the attack on Russia’s Belgorod region. While authorities in Moscow blamed Ukrainian officials for the attack, Kyiv has denied any involvement. Ukrainian officials after the incident said that they are watching the situation as it develops but “has nothing to do with it”. Meanwhile, Ukrainian presidential advisor Mikhaylo Podolyak suggested that Russian “guerrilla groups” might be responsible for the Monday attack. Russia responds to the incursion The Russian military said it had deployed jets and artillery to destroy the armed group in what Moscow has described as a “counter-terrorist operation”. According to Russia-installed officials, at least 12 civilians were injured after what Moscow called a “sabotage” group incursion from Ukraine and introduced an “anti-terror regime” in the region of Belgorod. Notably, the “anti-terror regime” grants special powers to security services while also imposing a number of restrictions and measures which include more security and communications surveillance in a region. “In the course of the counter-terrorist operation, the nationalist formations were blocked and destroyed by air strikes and artillery fire,” said the Russian defence ministry in a statement. It also said that Russia killed more than 70 Ukrainian fighters and destroyed four armoured vehicles and five pick-up trucks. It added, “The remnants of the nationalists were pushed back to Ukrainian territory, where they continued to be hit by gunfire until they were completely eliminated.” Earlier, local authorities had said the Belgorod region in Russia had come under sustained artillery and mortar fire by a group it claimed had crossed from Ukraine. Following the incident, Belgorod’s governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said that civilians from nine border villages had been evacuated. However, they haven't yet been asked to return. In response to the alleged attack, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, “What happened yesterday is a cause for deep concern and once again confirms that Ukrainian militants continue their activities against our country.” Gladkov also took to Telegram, on Tuesday, to report one death due to the incursion and said "To our great regret, we do have casualties. A peaceful civilian - a resident of the settlement of Kozinka, died at the hands of Ukrainian forces. Our most sincere condolences go to all their relatives and loved ones." Two ‘anti-Kremlin’ groups claim responsibility There are two groups which have claimed responsibility for the incursion – the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC) and the Freedom of Russia Legion, reported Reuters. The RVC is reportedly founded by Moscow-born Denis Kapustin, also known as Denis Nikitin, who has described himself as a nationalist fighting for a Russia that belongs to ethnic Russians, as per the news agency. Meanwhile, the Freedom of Russia Legion is said to be a Ukraine-based Russian militia group which is reportedly led by Russian opposition figure Ilya Ponomarev. The group is working inside Russia to supposedly overthrow Russian President Vladimir Putin. A video released by a Telegram channel, seen by the news agency AFP, claims to represent one of the anti-Kremlin groups which shows a camouflaged spokesman, surrounded by armed men in fatigues. The footage in question was released on Monday, in which the person said “Russia will be free!” a slogan frequently used by the Russian opposition. Ukrainian President visits eastern frontline Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Tuesday, visited the Marines on the eastern front line and also presented awards to the commanders of several units. “Happy Marines Day, especially to such strong people who are in one of the hottest but also one of the strongest… sectors – the Vuhledar-Marinka direction,” said the Ukrainian president, in a video posted on social media. (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.

Air Force, artillery used to push back border attackers, 70 ‘Ukrainian nationalists’ killed, says Russia

Western nations, as per the US ambassador to the global chemical weapons body Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) are looking at taking measures against Russia over its alleged nerve agent attacks.

Tensions at the OPCW have as per AFP soared since the global chemical weapons body's investigators found that Novichok, a Soviet-era nerve agent, was used against Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny in 2020. The nerve agent was also found to have been used against a former Russian spy in England in 2018.

Speaking to news agency AFP on Monday, US envoy Joseph Manso said that "the United States and many countries are concerned about Russian non-compliance, and Russian non-compliance is at the heart of the problems at the OPCW."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-chief-vows-his-forces-will-leave-bakhmut-by-june-1-595235">Russia-Ukraine | Wagner chief vows his forces will handover Bakhmut to Russian army by June 1</a>

"We're going to keep looking for what the right tools are to bring Russia into compliance. It is not something we're going to forget about," he added.

Manso accused Moscow of being responsible for the recent failure of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to agree on a new five-year plan and said that Russia's non-compliance lies at the core of the problems within the OPCW.&nbsp;

During the recent OPCW meeting held last week, Russia accused the West of "politicising" the organisation. The five-yearly meeting was held to assess progress on a 1997 agreement to eradicate chemical weapons.&nbsp;

The meeting failed to agree on a final document that would have set out its priorities for the next five years.

The US envoy pinned the blame on Moscow and its allies Syria, Iran and China. "Our Russian colleagues were not so flexible," Manso said.

He emphasised that the issue of Russian non-compliance will be a significant topic of discussion during the upcoming meetings of the organisation's policy-making body in July and the annual meeting of its 193 member states at the end of the year.&nbsp;

When asked about potential measures against Russia, such as suspending Moscow's voting rights at the OPCW, the US envoy said that he was "not going to specifically include anything and I'm not going to specifically exclude anything".

He suggested that sanctioning Russia could be an option "that may or may not work."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/climate-change-claimed-hundreds-of-thousands-of-lives-in-india-un-595232">Climate change, extreme weather have led to hundreds of thousands of deaths in India: UN</a>

"One approach would be to sanction the Russians. That may or may not work... It's an idea, but it's not US government policy," he said.

However, he expressed optimism about the "bright future" of the OPCW and emphasised on the organisation's role in preventing the re-emergence of chemical weapons and highlighting the upcoming milestone of the US completing the destruction of its chemical weapons stockpiles in September.

Nevertheless, despite the progress in eliminating declared toxic arms worldwide, Manso expressed concerns about the potential use of chemical weapons by Russia in Ukraine.&nbsp;He also said that Syria's readmission to the Arab League did not change the need for "accountability" for its chemical weapons use.

Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny and Novichok

Russia has long denied any involvement in the poisoning of Alexei Navalny.

Navalny, who happens to be an outspoken critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, had to be put in an induced coma after the deadly chemical attack. The OPCW found a cholinesterase inhibitor from the Novichok group in Navalny's blood, urine, skin samples and his water bottle.

Moscow also skirts responsibility in the Novichok attack on former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter. The 2018 attack that took place in the English town of Salisbury left one woman dead.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Western nations, as per the US ambassador to the global chemical weapons body Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) are looking at taking measures against Russia over its alleged nerve agent attacks.

Western nations, as per the US ambassador to the global chemical weapons body Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) are looking at taking measures against Russia over its alleged nerve agent attacks. Tensions at the OPCW have as per AFP soared since the global chemical weapons body's investigators found that Novichok, a Soviet-era nerve agent, was used against Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny in 2020. The nerve agent was also found to have been used against a former Russian spy in England in 2018. Speaking to news agency AFP on Monday, US envoy Joseph Manso said that "the United States and many countries are concerned about Russian non-compliance, and Russian non-compliance is at the heart of the problems at the OPCW." Also read | Russia-Ukraine | Wagner chief vows his forces will handover Bakhmut to Russian army by June 1 "We're going to keep looking for what the right tools are to bring Russia into compliance. It is not something we're going to forget about," he added. Manso accused Moscow of being responsible for the recent failure of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to agree on a new five-year plan and said that Russia's non-compliance lies at the core of the problems within the OPCW. During the recent OPCW meeting held last week, Russia accused the West of "politicising" the organisation. The five-yearly meeting was held to assess progress on a 1997 agreement to eradicate chemical weapons. The meeting failed to agree on a final document that would have set out its priorities for the next five years. The US envoy pinned the blame on Moscow and its allies Syria, Iran and China. "Our Russian colleagues were not so flexible," Manso said. He emphasised that the issue of Russian non-compliance will be a significant topic of discussion during the upcoming meetings of the organisation's policy-making body in July and the annual meeting of its 193 member states at the end of the year. When asked about potential measures against Russia, such as suspending Moscow's voting rights at the OPCW, the US envoy said that he was "not going to specifically include anything and I'm not going to specifically exclude anything". He suggested that sanctioning Russia could be an option "that may or may not work." Also read | Climate change, extreme weather have led to hundreds of thousands of deaths in India: UN "One approach would be to sanction the Russians. That may or may not work... It's an idea, but it's not US government policy," he said. However, he expressed optimism about the "bright future" of the OPCW and emphasised on the organisation's role in preventing the re-emergence of chemical weapons and highlighting the upcoming milestone of the US completing the destruction of its chemical weapons stockpiles in September. Nevertheless, despite the progress in eliminating declared toxic arms worldwide, Manso expressed concerns about the potential use of chemical weapons by Russia in Ukraine. He also said that Syria's readmission to the Arab League did not change the need for "accountability" for its chemical weapons use. Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny and Novichok Russia has long denied any involvement in the poisoning of Alexei Navalny. Navalny, who happens to be an outspoken critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, had to be put in an induced coma after the deadly chemical attack. The OPCW found a cholinesterase inhibitor from the Novichok group in Navalny's blood, urine, skin samples and his water bottle. Moscow also skirts responsibility in the Novichok attack on former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter. The 2018 attack that took place in the English town of Salisbury left one woman dead. (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.

Western powers considering action on Russia over its chemical weapon use: US ambassador to OPCW

At least two Ukrainians might be responsible for the Nord Stream and Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline explosion that took place in September last year, according to Germany’s Suddeutsche Zeitung daily.&nbsp;

The report claims that Germany’s Federal Criminal Police Office found the company that chartered the Andromeda yacht, allegedly used by the suspects of the Nord Stream blasts to reach the site. It said the Polish company named Feeria Lwowa was a sham company, set up in 2016 and registered by two Ukrainians.&nbsp;

The travel agency had reportedly sent a mail regarding the yacht to Germany’s Mola Yachting headquartered on Rugen island.

The company did not have anything extraordinary about it but in 2020, during the peak of the pandemic, it managed to suddenly earn 2.8 million euros. Currently, the company is owned by a middle-aged woman from Kerch, with her Ukrainian passport being recorded in the Polish company’s documents. Moreover, a 55-year-old Ukrainian woman is the company's director and stakeholder since September 2021.&nbsp;

<h2>German&nbsp;intelligences refuses to name anyone</h2>

After the report was released, President of the German Federal Intelligence Service (BND) Bruno Kahl said no intelligence is currently able to name those responsible for the blasts,&nbsp;

"No country, no intelligence agency in the world is currently able to attribute this (the Nord Streams sabotage) to anyone in particular," he said, "Maybe this will change, there are some notable successes in the investigation."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-nord-stream-mystery-deepens-heres-a-special-report-576122">WATCH |&nbsp;The Nord stream mystery deepens, here's a special report</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>US media's version of the explosions&nbsp;</h2>

However, the findings by the German newspaper are along the same lines as US media. In March, New York Times carried out a report wherein it was stated that a pro-Ukrainian group was responsible for exploding the Nord Stream natural gas pipelines.&nbsp;

"New intelligence reporting amounts to the first significant known lead about who was responsible for the attack on the Nord Stream pipelines that carried natural gas from Russia to Europe," reported the publication.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-launches-international-terrorism-probe-after-nord-stream-leaks-report-520700">ALSO READ |&nbsp;Russia launches 'international terrorism' probe after Nord Stream leaks: Report</a>

<h2>Nord Stream pipelines&nbsp;</h2>

The two explosions on the Nord Stream pipelines last year were followed by unexplained gas leaks. According to a Danish-Swedish investigation, the four breaches impacting the Nord Stream gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea were brought on by underwater explosions equivalent to hundreds of kilogrammes of explosives.&nbsp;

Denmark and Sweden have maintained that the attacks could not have been carried out without state-sponsored help - subtly hinting at Moscow.&nbsp;

However, Russian President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;called such allegations a ploy by the West after its sanctions did not affect Moscow.&nbsp;

"Sanctions are not enough for the West, they have switched to sabotage. Unbelievable, but it is a fact!," Putin stated during a live speech at a Kremlin ceremony last year.&nbsp;

Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2&nbsp;pipelines&nbsp;stretch 760 miles from&nbsp;the Russian northwest coast&nbsp;to Lubmin in northeast Germany. The first was completed in 2011 and cost more than $12 billion to build while Nord Stream 2 cost slightly less and was completed in 2021 despite backlash from the US, UK and Ukraine amongst others.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of the claims made by the German newspaper.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least two Ukrainians might be responsible for the Nord Stream and Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline explosion that took place in September last year, according to Germany’s Suddeutsche Zeitung daily.

At least two Ukrainians might be responsible for the Nord Stream and Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline explosion that took place in September last year, according to Germany’s Suddeutsche Zeitung daily. The report claims that Germany’s Federal Criminal Police Office found the company that chartered the Andromeda yacht, allegedly used by the suspects of the Nord Stream blasts to reach the site. It said the Polish company named Feeria Lwowa was a sham company, set up in 2016 and registered by two Ukrainians. The travel agency had reportedly sent a mail regarding the yacht to Germany’s Mola Yachting headquartered on Rugen island. The company did not have anything extraordinary about it but in 2020, during the peak of the pandemic, it managed to suddenly earn 2.8 million euros. Currently, the company is owned by a middle-aged woman from Kerch, with her Ukrainian passport being recorded in the Polish company’s documents. Moreover, a 55-year-old Ukrainian woman is the company's director and stakeholder since September 2021. German intelligences refuses to name anyone After the report was released, President of the German Federal Intelligence Service (BND) Bruno Kahl said no intelligence is currently able to name those responsible for the blasts, "No country, no intelligence agency in the world is currently able to attribute this (the Nord Streams sabotage) to anyone in particular," he said, "Maybe this will change, there are some notable successes in the investigation." WATCH | The Nord stream mystery deepens, here's a special report × US media's version of the explosions However, the findings by the German newspaper are along the same lines as US media. In March, New York Times carried out a report wherein it was stated that a pro-Ukrainian group was responsible for exploding the Nord Stream natural gas pipelines. "New intelligence reporting amounts to the first significant known lead about who was responsible for the attack on the Nord Stream pipelines that carried natural gas from Russia to Europe," reported the publication. ALSO READ | Russia launches 'international terrorism' probe after Nord Stream leaks: Report Nord Stream pipelines The two explosions on the Nord Stream pipelines last year were followed by unexplained gas leaks. According to a Danish-Swedish investigation, the four breaches impacting the Nord Stream gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea were brought on by underwater explosions equivalent to hundreds of kilogrammes of explosives. Denmark and Sweden have maintained that the attacks could not have been carried out without state-sponsored help - subtly hinting at Moscow. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin called such allegations a ploy by the West after its sanctions did not affect Moscow. "Sanctions are not enough for the West, they have switched to sabotage. Unbelievable, but it is a fact!," Putin stated during a live speech at a Kremlin ceremony last year. Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 pipelines stretch 760 miles from the Russian northwest coast to Lubmin in northeast Germany. The first was completed in 2011 and cost more than $12 billion to build while Nord Stream 2 cost slightly less and was completed in 2021 despite backlash from the US, UK and Ukraine amongst others. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of the claims made by the German newspaper. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

At least two Ukrainians blew up Nord Stream pipelines: German media

Ukraine's Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that the country's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba stressed on Ukraine's territorial integrity in his meeting with China's special envoy Li Hui.

Dmytro Kuleba "explained the principles of restoring a stable and just peace in detail, based on the respect of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine", said a ministry statement.&nbsp;

China's spcial envoy Li Hui arrived in Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Tuesday (May 17) for two days of talks with authorities. He has come on a European tour to promote Beijing's plan to settle the Ukraine conflict with Russia.

Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Moscow in March, seeking to position China as a neutral mediator. Xi, however, has not visited Kyiv. China has not yet condemned Russian attack on Ukraine. It has also provided diplomatic cover to Russia on global platforms.

Watch | Ukraine: Russian Kinzhal missiles cannot destroy patriot system&nbsp;

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In the meeting with Li, Kuleba "emphasised that Ukraine does not accept any proposals that would involve the loss of its territories or the freezing of the conflict".

He praised the "importance" of China's mediating role, including in the Black Sea Initiative that allowed for the resumption of grain exports through the Black Sea, and in nuclear safety.&nbsp;

The two sides also agreed to "intensify dialogue on key issues."

<h2>Grain deal extended&nbsp;</h2>

Wednesday marked a positive development in a matter connected to Ukraine conflict. Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that Ukraine deal had been extended by two months.

“With the efforts of our country, the support of our Russian friends, the contribution of our Ukrainian friends, it was decided to prolong the Black Sea grain deal for two more months,” said the Turkish president, as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Ukraine is often called the 'bread basket of the world'. After Russia attacked Ukraine, the grain exports stopped. This raised the specter of global food crisis. United Nations and Turkey then mediated a grain deal between Ukraine and Russia which gave safe passage to Ukrainian grain ships. Tensions between the two countries often put the deal in jeopardy.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-eases-citizenship-process-for-foreigners-fighting-for-russia-in-ukraine-593240">Putin eases citizenship process for foreigners fighting for Russia in Ukraine</a>

The latest decision to extend the deal came after officials from Russia, Ukraine and the UN, part of Joint Co-ordination Centre (JCC) gathered in Istanbul last week to discuss extension of the deal.

On Wednesday, Erdogan thanked Russian, Ukrainian leaders as well as UN General-Secretary Antonio Guterres. Russia has agreed not to block ships from leaving from two Ukrainian harbours.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine's Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that the country's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba stressed on Ukraine's territorial integrity in his meeting with China's special envoy Li Hui.

Ukraine's Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that the country's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba stressed on Ukraine's territorial integrity in his meeting with China's special envoy Li Hui. Dmytro Kuleba "explained the principles of restoring a stable and just peace in detail, based on the respect of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine", said a ministry statement. China's spcial envoy Li Hui arrived in Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Tuesday (May 17) for two days of talks with authorities. He has come on a European tour to promote Beijing's plan to settle the Ukraine conflict with Russia. Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Moscow in March, seeking to position China as a neutral mediator. Xi, however, has not visited Kyiv. China has not yet condemned Russian attack on Ukraine. It has also provided diplomatic cover to Russia on global platforms. Watch | Ukraine: Russian Kinzhal missiles cannot destroy patriot system × In the meeting with Li, Kuleba "emphasised that Ukraine does not accept any proposals that would involve the loss of its territories or the freezing of the conflict". He praised the "importance" of China's mediating role, including in the Black Sea Initiative that allowed for the resumption of grain exports through the Black Sea, and in nuclear safety. The two sides also agreed to "intensify dialogue on key issues." Grain deal extended Wednesday marked a positive development in a matter connected to Ukraine conflict. Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that Ukraine deal had been extended by two months. “With the efforts of our country, the support of our Russian friends, the contribution of our Ukrainian friends, it was decided to prolong the Black Sea grain deal for two more months,” said the Turkish president, as quoted by news agency AFP. Ukraine is often called the 'bread basket of the world'. After Russia attacked Ukraine, the grain exports stopped. This raised the specter of global food crisis. United Nations and Turkey then mediated a grain deal between Ukraine and Russia which gave safe passage to Ukrainian grain ships. Tensions between the two countries often put the deal in jeopardy. Also Read | Putin eases citizenship process for foreigners fighting for Russia in Ukraine The latest decision to extend the deal came after officials from Russia, Ukraine and the UN, part of Joint Co-ordination Centre (JCC) gathered in Istanbul last week to discuss extension of the deal. On Wednesday, Erdogan thanked Russian, Ukrainian leaders as well as UN General-Secretary Antonio Guterres. Russia has agreed not to block ships from leaving from two Ukrainian harbours. (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 insists on territorial integrity during talks with China envoy

Moldovan President Maia Sandu told AFP in an interview that the country was seeking membership of the European Union (EU) "as soon as possible" in order to gain protection from Russian threat. President Sandu said that she hoped for a decision to start negotiations "in the next months".

Moldova is a small nation of 2.6 million people. It is situated between EU neighbour Romania and war-torn Ukraine. It will on June 1 hold its first major summit of wider Europe.

President Sandu feels EU membership is the only guarantee against becoming Russia's next target.

Moldova is a former Soviet republic. It already has a breakaway region, Transnistria. Russia has stationed a small number of troops there.

Watch | EU to discuss 11th package of sanctions against Russia at G7 summit

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"Of course, nothing compares to what is happening in Ukraine, but we see the risks and we do believe that we can save our democracy only as part of the EU," Sandu said.

"We do believe that Russia will continue to be a big source of instability for the years to come and we need to protect ourselves," added Sandu, on the sidelines of a Council of Europe of summit in Iceland that wrapped up on Tuesday.

Sandu, 50, is in office since 2020. In February, she accused Russia of encouraging a coup to seize power in Moldova.

She has called for Moldovans -- who polls show are overwhelmingly behind joining the European Union -- to hold a pro-EU rally on Sunday.

"The Ukraine war made things black and white. So it's very clear what the free world means, and what the authoritarian world means, for all of us," she said.

"We do believe that this is a realistic project for us and we are looking forward to see this happening as soon as possible," Sandu said.

Becoming a member of EU could take a decade or more. There is a long list of requirements which have to be met in order to join the countries in the European single market.

<h2>Challenges before Moldova</h2>

Unlike Ukraine, Moldova is small enough to be able to be integrated into the European Union relatively easily.

However, there are a few challenges in bringing Moldova's democratic standards up to EU levels, especially in terms of fighting corruption.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/european-union-approves-worlds-first-regulation-for-crypto-assets-593021">European Union approves world’s first regulation for crypto assets, rollout in 2024</a>

The economy is fragile. There are questions of energy security and the issue of Transnistria, with its 30,000 pro-Russian population.

"We are struggling to have peaceful resolution of the conflict, and we've been calling on Russia to withdraw its illegally stationed troops," Sandu said.

"We need a geopolitical opportunity to be able to solve the conflict."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Moldovan President Maia Sandu told AFP in an interview that the country was seeking membership of the European Union (EU) "as soon as possible" in order to gain protection from Russian threat.

Moldovan President Maia Sandu told AFP in an interview that the country was seeking membership of the European Union (EU) "as soon as possible" in order to gain protection from Russian threat. President Sandu said that she hoped for a decision to start negotiations "in the next months". Moldova is a small nation of 2.6 million people. It is situated between EU neighbour Romania and war-torn Ukraine. It will on June 1 hold its first major summit of wider Europe. President Sandu feels EU membership is the only guarantee against becoming Russia's next target. Moldova is a former Soviet republic. It already has a breakaway region, Transnistria. Russia has stationed a small number of troops there. Watch | EU to discuss 11th package of sanctions against Russia at G7 summit × "Of course, nothing compares to what is happening in Ukraine, but we see the risks and we do believe that we can save our democracy only as part of the EU," Sandu said. "We do believe that Russia will continue to be a big source of instability for the years to come and we need to protect ourselves," added Sandu, on the sidelines of a Council of Europe of summit in Iceland that wrapped up on Tuesday. Sandu, 50, is in office since 2020. In February, she accused Russia of encouraging a coup to seize power in Moldova. She has called for Moldovans -- who polls show are overwhelmingly behind joining the European Union -- to hold a pro-EU rally on Sunday. "The Ukraine war made things black and white. So it's very clear what the free world means, and what the authoritarian world means, for all of us," she said. "We do believe that this is a realistic project for us and we are looking forward to see this happening as soon as possible," Sandu said. Becoming a member of EU could take a decade or more. There is a long list of requirements which have to be met in order to join the countries in the European single market. Challenges before Moldova Unlike Ukraine, Moldova is small enough to be able to be integrated into the European Union relatively easily. However, there are a few challenges in bringing Moldova's democratic standards up to EU levels, especially in terms of fighting corruption. Also Read | European Union approves world’s first regulation for crypto assets, rollout in 2024 The economy is fragile. There are questions of energy security and the issue of Transnistria, with its 30,000 pro-Russian population. "We are struggling to have peaceful resolution of the conflict, and we've been calling on Russia to withdraw its illegally stationed troops," Sandu said. "We need a geopolitical opportunity to be able to solve the conflict." (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 ×

With eye on Russia, Moldova wants to join EU 'as soon as possible'

Days after US President Joe Biden endorsed training programmes for Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets, Russia said the transfer would raise questions over NATO's involvement in the conflict.

Days after US President Joe Biden endorsed training programmes for Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets, Russia said the transfer would raise questions over NATO's involvement in the conflict. Russia's Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov questioned the military alliance on what would happen if American soldiers took off from NATO airfields. “There is no infrastructure for the operation of the F-16 in Ukraine and the needed number of pilots and maintenance personnel is not there either,” said Antonov in remarks published on the embassy's Telegram channel. "What will happen if the American fighters take off from NATO airfields, controlled by foreign 'volunteers'?" he questioned. This is not the first instance when Moscow has raised questions over the involvement of the multi-role fighter aircraft. On Sunday, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko responding to questions warned the West that providing Kyiv with F-16 fighter jets would carry ‘colossal risks’. “We see that Western countries are still adhering to the escalation scenario. It involves colossal risks for themselves," said Grushko. “In any case, this will be taken into account in all our plans, and we have all the necessary means to achieve the goals we have set.” ALSO READ | Russia says West's supply of F-16 jets to Ukraine would carry ‘colossal risks’ Kyiv wants the F-16 desperately Zelensky has been pushing the Western allies to supply the F-16 jets for months now. The Ukrainian leader discussed the proposition yet again during his appearance at the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan. After much back-and-forth, the White House on Sunday approved a new $375 million military aid for Ukraine. The pledge came after Biden agreed to allow training on F-16 fighter jets, laying the groundwork for their eventual transfer to Kyiv. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine focuses on upping its air defence systems × However, Biden said Zelensky had given 'flat assurances' to him that the F-16 fighter jets will not be used to attack Russian territory. "I have a flat assurance from Zelensky that they will not use it to go on and move onto Russian geographic territory, but wherever Russian troops are within Ukraine and the area, they would be able to do that," Biden told reporters on Sunday. Kyiv is in desperate need of more arms and advanced jets, especially after Moscow's Wagner private military unit claimed it had finally managed to take full control of the ruined eastern city of Bakhmut after months of vicious fighting. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia questions NATO involvement over F-16 transfer to Ukraine

In pics | Moldova: Tens of thousands of people rally for EU membership

The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Saturday grounded its entire fleet of Russian-made MiG-21 fighter aircraft till an investigation to ascertain the reason behind the crash near Hanumangarh in the western state of Rajasthan earlier this month was completed.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Saturday grounded its entire fleet of Russian-made MiG-21 fighter aircraft till an investigation to ascertain the reason behind the crash near Hanumangarh in the western state of Rajasthan earlier this month was completed. "The MiG-21 fleet has been grounded till the investigations are carried out and reasons for the crash are ascertained," a senior Air Force official was quoted as saying by ANI. On May 8, a MiG-21 Bison crashed during a routine training sortie after suffering a technical snag. Initial reports mentioned that the jet, which had taken off from Suratgarh, crashed on a house in Bahlolnagar and killed three villagers. According to local media reports, police said that all three killed in the crash were women. The pilot, however, managed to eject safely from the aircraft but with minor injuries. In a tweet, IAF wrote: "A MiG-21 aircraft of the IAF crashed near Suratgarh during a routine training sortie today morning. The pilot ejected safely, sustaining minor injuries." WATCH | How India's LCA Mk2 can be a game changer for the Indian Air Force × Why is IAF grounding MiG-21? IAF currently has around 50 MiG-21 aircraft in service, which comprise three of its 31 squadrons. The jet has been in service for over five decades now and remained a mainstay of combat operations. However, its reliability issues have become a significant talking point in recent times. Inducted into the IAF in the 1960s, the jet has been involved in as many as 400 accidents. While 870 Mig-21 fighter jets were procured initially, only 50 remain standing. The jet is also referred to as the 'flying coffin' primarily due to the number of pilots that have lost their lives while flying the machine. According to defence ministry officials, seeing the current state of MiG-21 aircraft, the entire batch is expected to be pulled out of service by early 2025. The MiGs will be replaced by 83 modern Tejas jets that IAF has a deal for with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) as part of its The Air Force has procured 36 Rafale jets to fortify its combat prowess. The IAF is also in the process of adding 114 Medium Role Fighter Aircraft to its combat fleet. ALSO READ | India: IAF MiG-21 crashes in Rajasthan, killing at least three civilians; rescue operation underway Previous incidents of MiG-21 crash Last year in July, a Mig-21 trainer fighter jet crashed in Rajasthan killing two pilots aboard - Wing Commander M Rana and Flight Lieutenant Advitiya Bal. In December 2021, Wing Commander Harshit Sinha lost his life after the Mig-21 he was piloting developed a technical snag and crashed in Jaisalmer during a training sortie. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Why has Indian Air Force grounded its entire fleet of MiG-21 fighter jets?

Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili’s threat to a national airline over its decision to resume flights with Russia seems to have backfired as the air carrier’s founder has banned her from using its services, Russian news agency TASS reported on Sunday.

Tamaz Gaiashvili, the founder of privately-owned Georgian Airways, told TASS that Zourabichvili has been declared "persona non grata" and would be banned until she "apologises before the Georgian people".

The row erupted after Georgian officials welcomed a decision by Russian President Vladimir Putin to lift a four-year-old ban on direct flights with Georgia this month. He also removed a decades-old visa requirement for Georgians travelling to Russia.

President Salome Zourabichvili had asked Georgian authorities not to adhere to the Russian initiative as the US and the European Union had urged Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili-led government to follow sanctions imposed on Moscow for the invasion of Ukraine.

But her appeal fell flat as a Georgian Airways plane landed in Moscow earlier on Saturday, according to the Tbilisi airport spokeswoman Nino Tsivtsivadze.

In response, Zourabichvili said that she would not be using the airline.

“I will refrain from using this airline from now on for as long as this company is in the hands of those people who will do anything for money,” Zourabichvili said in a public address on Saturday.

In Georgia, a president’s position is mainly ceremonial, with executive powers being vested with the prime minister. Local media reports state that Zourabichvili’s relations with the government have been strained over the officials’ deepening ties with Russia.

She has repeatedly raised concerns over the country's recent bent&nbsp;towards Russia, saying that it could jeopardise Georgia's chances of joining the EU one day.

<h2>First flight from Russia to Georgia since 2019 lands to protests</h2>

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<h2>People protest</h2>

Meanwhile, the response to the Russian decision has drawn mixed reactions in Georgia as some have expressed interest in restoring ties with its neighbour, while others want the country to lean towards the European Union, Reuters news agency reported.

Some Georgians, who want the country to distance itself from Moscow in favour of the European Union, demonstrated against it in central Tbilisi on Sunday.

Many Georgians oppose any rapprochement with Moscow whose troops garrison two breakaway regions —Abkhazia and South Ossetia —that make up around one-fifth of the country's territory.

In recent years, the Georgian government has worked to improve ties with Moscow, declining to impose sanctions on Russia over the war in Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili’s threat to a national airline over its decision to resume flights with Russia seems to have backfired as the air carrier’s founder has banned her from using its services, Russian news agency TASS reported on Sunday.

Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili’s threat to a national airline over its decision to resume flights with Russia seems to have backfired as the air carrier’s founder has banned her from using its services, Russian news agency TASS reported on Sunday. Tamaz Gaiashvili, the founder of privately-owned Georgian Airways, told TASS that Zourabichvili has been declared "persona non grata" and would be banned until she "apologises before the Georgian people". The row erupted after Georgian officials welcomed a decision by Russian President Vladimir Putin to lift a four-year-old ban on direct flights with Georgia this month. He also removed a decades-old visa requirement for Georgians travelling to Russia. President Salome Zourabichvili had asked Georgian authorities not to adhere to the Russian initiative as the US and the European Union had urged Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili-led government to follow sanctions imposed on Moscow for the invasion of Ukraine. But her appeal fell flat as a Georgian Airways plane landed in Moscow earlier on Saturday, according to the Tbilisi airport spokeswoman Nino Tsivtsivadze. In response, Zourabichvili said that she would not be using the airline. “I will refrain from using this airline from now on for as long as this company is in the hands of those people who will do anything for money,” Zourabichvili said in a public address on Saturday. In Georgia, a president’s position is mainly ceremonial, with executive powers being vested with the prime minister. Local media reports state that Zourabichvili’s relations with the government have been strained over the officials’ deepening ties with Russia. She has repeatedly raised concerns over the country's recent bent towards Russia, saying that it could jeopardise Georgia's chances of joining the EU one day. First flight from Russia to Georgia since 2019 lands to protests People protest Meanwhile, the response to the Russian decision has drawn mixed reactions in Georgia as some have expressed interest in restoring ties with its neighbour, while others want the country to lean towards the European Union, Reuters news agency reported. Some Georgians, who want the country to distance itself from Moscow in favour of the European Union, demonstrated against it in central Tbilisi on Sunday. Many Georgians oppose any rapprochement with Moscow whose troops garrison two breakaway regions —Abkhazia and South Ossetia —that make up around one-fifth of the country's territory. In recent years, the Georgian government has worked to improve ties with Moscow, declining to impose sanctions on Russia over the war in Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Georgian national airline bans country’s president amidst row over flights to Russia

At a time when Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is in Japan to drum up support for his cause at the G7 summit, Russia has warned the West that providing Kyiv with F-16 fighter jets would be a ‘colossal risk’.&nbsp;

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko was responding to questions about the implications of Ukraine receiving the advanced, multi-role fighter aircraft.&nbsp;

“We see that Western countries are still adhering to the escalation scenario. It involves colossal risks for themselves," said&nbsp;Grushko.&nbsp;

“In any case, this will be taken into account in all our plans, and we have all the necessary means to achieve the goals we have set.”

<h2>Ukrainian prez pushes for fighter jets</h2>

Zelensky has been pushing the Western allies to supply the F-16 jets for months now. The Ukrainian leader&nbsp;discussed the proposition yet again with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on the sidelines of the G7 summit.&nbsp;

“Following their discussion at Chequers earlier this week, the prime minister reiterated that the UK would continue to provide Ukraine with the military assistance needed to win the war and secure a just peace. The prime minister updated President Zelensky on the very positive progress at the G7 so far, including new sanctions against Russia and the provision of fighter jets," read a statement released by 10, Downing Street.&nbsp;

Zelensky received the booster shot of confidence for his pursuit after US President Joe Biden on Friday said the White House would be willing to back a joint international effort to train&nbsp;Ukrainian pilots to fly F-16 and other modern fighter jets.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-china-come-down-heavy-on-g7-after-grouping-targets-them-594616">ALSO READ |&nbsp;Russia, China come down heavy on G7 after grouping targets them</a>

<h2>Kyiv wants the F-16 desperately</h2>

Kyiv is in desperate need of more arms and advanced jets, especially after Moscow's Wagner private military unit&nbsp;claimed it had finally managed to take full control of the ruined&nbsp;eastern city of Bahamut after months of vicious fighting, though Kyiv has issued a denial.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraines-zelenskiy-at-centre-of-last-day-of-g7-summit-594607">WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine's Zelenskiy at centre of last day of G7 summit</a>

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Colonel Yuri Ignat, Ukrainian Air Force spokesman asserted the significance of the F-16 saying ground troops will benefit from its use.&nbsp;

"We need F-16s to become an integral part of our air defence. These fighters can engage aerial targets from both high and low altitudes," said Ignat,&nbsp;adding that the jets can carry advanced weapons.

"By utilising F-16s, our ground troops will be able to swiftly liberate occupied Ukrainian territories by targeting enemy command posts, military groups and logistics supply chains."

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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At a time when Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is in Japan to drum up support for his cause at the G7 summit, Russia has warned the West that providing Kyiv with F-16 fighter jets would be a ‘colossal risk’.

At a time when Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is in Japan to drum up support for his cause at the G7 summit, Russia has warned the West that providing Kyiv with F-16 fighter jets would be a ‘colossal risk’. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko was responding to questions about the implications of Ukraine receiving the advanced, multi-role fighter aircraft. “We see that Western countries are still adhering to the escalation scenario. It involves colossal risks for themselves," said Grushko. “In any case, this will be taken into account in all our plans, and we have all the necessary means to achieve the goals we have set.” Ukrainian prez pushes for fighter jets Zelensky has been pushing the Western allies to supply the F-16 jets for months now. The Ukrainian leader discussed the proposition yet again with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on the sidelines of the G7 summit. “Following their discussion at Chequers earlier this week, the prime minister reiterated that the UK would continue to provide Ukraine with the military assistance needed to win the war and secure a just peace. The prime minister updated President Zelensky on the very positive progress at the G7 so far, including new sanctions against Russia and the provision of fighter jets," read a statement released by 10, Downing Street. Zelensky received the booster shot of confidence for his pursuit after US President Joe Biden on Friday said the White House would be willing to back a joint international effort to train Ukrainian pilots to fly F-16 and other modern fighter jets. ALSO READ | Russia, China come down heavy on G7 after grouping targets them Kyiv wants the F-16 desperately Kyiv is in desperate need of more arms and advanced jets, especially after Moscow's Wagner private military unit claimed it had finally managed to take full control of the ruined eastern city of Bahamut after months of vicious fighting, though Kyiv has issued a denial. WATCH | Ukraine's Zelenskiy at centre of last day of G7 summit × Colonel Yuri Ignat, Ukrainian Air Force spokesman asserted the significance of the F-16 saying ground troops will benefit from its use. "We need F-16s to become an integral part of our air defence. These fighters can engage aerial targets from both high and low altitudes," said Ignat, adding that the jets can carry advanced weapons. "By utilising F-16s, our ground troops will be able to swiftly liberate occupied Ukrainian territories by targeting enemy command posts, military groups and logistics supply chains." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia says West's supply of F-16 jets to Ukraine would carry ‘colossal risks’

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s press secretary&nbsp;Sergii Nykyforov has clarified the&nbsp;recent statement made by the leader on the fall of Bakhmut.&nbsp;

“Reporter’s question: Russians said they have taken Bakhmut. President’s reply: I think no,”&nbsp;Sergii Nykyforov wrote on Facebook, as he claimed that the leader was responding to a different part of the reporter’s question.

In Ukrainian language, he added, "In this way, the president denied the capture of Bakhmut."

Zelensky earlier on&nbsp;Sunday appeared to have confirmed the news of the warring nation having lost the city of Bakhmut when he was asked if the region is still in Ukraine's hands since Russia claims it has taken it over. 
 
“I think no,” said Zelensky, while answering about the current status of Bakhmut&nbsp;as he sat&nbsp;alongside US President Joe Biden during a meeting which was being held on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan.&nbsp;

“You have to understand that there is nothing left in this place. They destroyed everything.. just ruins and a lot of dead Russians, but they came to us," he said,

Zelensky stated that&nbsp;Ukraine’s&nbsp;soldiers did "strong work" and "we appreciate their great job".

"For today, Bakhmut is only in our hearts. There is nothing in this place. It is a tragedy,” he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-west-supplying-f-16-jets-to-ukraine-would-carry-colossal-risks-594646">Russia says West supplying F-16 jets to Ukraine would carry 'colossal risks'</a>

 
On Saturday, Russia had claimed that it&nbsp;has fully captured the war-torn eastern Ukrainian city. The fall of the city will mark the end of the bloodiest and longest battle in the already 15-month-old war. 
 
The Wagner Group of mercenaries led the assault on the largely levelled Ukrainian city. Earlier, Wagner Group's leader Yevgeny Prigozhin said that the Ukrainians have been finally pushed out of the last built-up area inside the city. 
 
The Russian ministry issued a statement on Telegram almost eight hours after Prigozhin's claims. However, Kyiv denied the claim made by Prigozhin and stated that the fight for Bakhmut is still going on. 
 
Referring to the city through its Soviet-era name, the Russian ministry stated, “In the Artyomovsk tactical direction, the assault teams of the Wagner private military company with the support of artillery and aviation of the southern battlegroup have completed the liberation of the city of Artyomovsk.” 
 
The state news agencies of Russia had cited Kremlin’s press service as stating President Vladimir Putin “congratulates the Wagner assault detachments, as well as all servicemen of the Russian Armed Forces units, who provided them with the necessary support and flank protection, on the completion of the operation to liberate Artyomovsk.”

WATCH |&nbsp;Wagner Group: Russia did not supply with adequate ammunition | Russia-Ukraine War

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<h2>Biden unveils new&nbsp;arms, ammunition package for Kyiv</h2>

United States President Joe Biden on Sunday unveiled a new weapons package for Kyiv as he held talks with Zelensky in Hiroshima, which is likely to become part of a large-scale counteroffensive which will be soon launched to push Russians back from the occupied territories. 
 
Biden stated that the package would include "ammunition, artillery, armoured vehicles". The announcement comes days after the country permitted allies to transfer advanced F-16 jets to Ukraine.

“The United States continues to help Ukraine respond, recover and rebuild. We're also supporting peace,” Biden stated.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s press secretary Sergii Nykyforov has clarified the recent statement made by the leader on the fall of Bakhmut. “Reporter’s question: Russians said they have taken Bakhmut.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s press secretary Sergii Nykyforov has clarified the recent statement made by the leader on the fall of Bakhmut. “Reporter’s question: Russians said they have taken Bakhmut. President’s reply: I think no,” Sergii Nykyforov wrote on Facebook, as he claimed that the leader was responding to a different part of the reporter’s question. In Ukrainian language, he added, "In this way, the president denied the capture of Bakhmut." Zelensky earlier on Sunday appeared to have confirmed the news of the warring nation having lost the city of Bakhmut when he was asked if the region is still in Ukraine's hands since Russia claims it has taken it over. “I think no,” said Zelensky, while answering about the current status of Bakhmut as he sat alongside US President Joe Biden during a meeting which was being held on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan. “You have to understand that there is nothing left in this place. They destroyed everything.. just ruins and a lot of dead Russians, but they came to us," he said, Zelensky stated that Ukraine’s soldiers did "strong work" and "we appreciate their great job". "For today, Bakhmut is only in our hearts. There is nothing in this place. It is a tragedy,” he added. ALSO READ | Russia says West supplying F-16 jets to Ukraine would carry 'colossal risks' On Saturday, Russia had claimed that it has fully captured the war-torn eastern Ukrainian city. The fall of the city will mark the end of the bloodiest and longest battle in the already 15-month-old war. The Wagner Group of mercenaries led the assault on the largely levelled Ukrainian city. Earlier, Wagner Group's leader Yevgeny Prigozhin said that the Ukrainians have been finally pushed out of the last built-up area inside the city. The Russian ministry issued a statement on Telegram almost eight hours after Prigozhin's claims. However, Kyiv denied the claim made by Prigozhin and stated that the fight for Bakhmut is still going on. Referring to the city through its Soviet-era name, the Russian ministry stated, “In the Artyomovsk tactical direction, the assault teams of the Wagner private military company with the support of artillery and aviation of the southern battlegroup have completed the liberation of the city of Artyomovsk.” The state news agencies of Russia had cited Kremlin’s press service as stating President Vladimir Putin “congratulates the Wagner assault detachments, as well as all servicemen of the Russian Armed Forces units, who provided them with the necessary support and flank protection, on the completion of the operation to liberate Artyomovsk.” WATCH | Wagner Group: Russia did not supply with adequate ammunition | Russia-Ukraine War Biden unveils new arms, ammunition package for Kyiv United States President Joe Biden on Sunday unveiled a new weapons package for Kyiv as he held talks with Zelensky in Hiroshima, which is likely to become part of a large-scale counteroffensive which will be soon launched to push Russians back from the occupied territories. Biden stated that the package would include "ammunition, artillery, armoured vehicles". The announcement comes days after the country permitted allies to transfer advanced F-16 jets to Ukraine. “The United States continues to help Ukraine respond, recover and rebuild. We're also supporting peace,” Biden stated. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Zelensky’s spokesperson clarifies Ukrainian leader’s ‘no’, says he denied fall of Bakhmut

The Chinese foreign ministry recently issued a notification for foreign embassies and international organisations asking them not to display “politicised propaganda,” on buildings, reported news agency Reuters, on Wednesday (May 17).&nbsp;

The notice was issued sometime this week and media reports citing diplomatic sources have said that this is in connection with several Western embassies across Beijing displaying Ukrainian flags in solitary amid the ongoing Russian invasion.&nbsp;

Since the invasion began over a year ago, Western embassies across Beijing have put up Ukrainian flags in solidarity, some of which are also accompanied by messages of support in English and Chinese, reported news agency AFP. China, remains an ally of Russia which since the beginning of the conflict has garnered international condemnation along with thousands of sanctions.&nbsp;

“Do not use the building facilities’ exterior walls to display politicised propaganda to avoid inciting disputes between countries,” the Chinese foreign ministry said in a notification dated May 10, a copy of which was seen by Reuters. The notice in question is also said to be addressed to “all embassies, and international organisations’ China representative offices.”

While the notice did not mention Ukrainian flags or what amounted to “propaganda” displays, AFP citing several European missions also confirmed that such a notice was sent to officials. Four Beijing-based diplomats, speaking to Reuters on condition of anonymity, said it was clearly related to Ukraine solidarity exhibits.&nbsp;

Similarly, one official from a European embassy told AFP it was almost certainly related to several embassies’ prominent display of a Ukrainian flag. However, the report citing another European embassy official said it was unclear whether the request was linked to Ukraine or the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia.&nbsp;

This comes as foreign embassies in Beijing reportedly also raised pride flags in recognition of the campaign which was marked on Wednesday ahead of Pride Month in June to raise awareness about the LGBTQ+ rights violations worldwide.&nbsp;

When asked about the notice, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin in his daily briefing, on Wednesday, said that embassies of foreign countries and offices of international organisations in China have the “obligation” to respect Beijing’s “laws and regulations.”&nbsp;

He added, “China calls on embassies of all countries in China...to perform their duties in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations or relevant international agreements,” said Wang, without any further details. Notably, the convention does not list any prohibitions about political signage being displayed on embassies’ outer walls.

The official also told AFP that they “strictly adhere to the Vienna conventions. There is therefore no reason for us to react to this note or to change our display policy”.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The Chinese foreign ministry recently issued a notification for foreign embassies and international organisations asking them not to display “politicised propaganda,” on buildings, reported news agency Reuters, on Wednesday (May 17).

The Chinese foreign ministry recently issued a notification for foreign embassies and international organisations asking them not to display “politicised propaganda,” on buildings, reported news agency Reuters, on Wednesday (May 17). The notice was issued sometime this week and media reports citing diplomatic sources have said that this is in connection with several Western embassies across Beijing displaying Ukrainian flags in solitary amid the ongoing Russian invasion. Since the invasion began over a year ago, Western embassies across Beijing have put up Ukrainian flags in solidarity, some of which are also accompanied by messages of support in English and Chinese, reported news agency AFP. China, remains an ally of Russia which since the beginning of the conflict has garnered international condemnation along with thousands of sanctions. “Do not use the building facilities’ exterior walls to display politicised propaganda to avoid inciting disputes between countries,” the Chinese foreign ministry said in a notification dated May 10, a copy of which was seen by Reuters. The notice in question is also said to be addressed to “all embassies, and international organisations’ China representative offices.” While the notice did not mention Ukrainian flags or what amounted to “propaganda” displays, AFP citing several European missions also confirmed that such a notice was sent to officials. Four Beijing-based diplomats, speaking to Reuters on condition of anonymity, said it was clearly related to Ukraine solidarity exhibits. Similarly, one official from a European embassy told AFP it was almost certainly related to several embassies’ prominent display of a Ukrainian flag. However, the report citing another European embassy official said it was unclear whether the request was linked to Ukraine or the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia. This comes as foreign embassies in Beijing reportedly also raised pride flags in recognition of the campaign which was marked on Wednesday ahead of Pride Month in June to raise awareness about the LGBTQ+ rights violations worldwide. When asked about the notice, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin in his daily briefing, on Wednesday, said that embassies of foreign countries and offices of international organisations in China have the “obligation” to respect Beijing’s “laws and regulations.” He added, “China calls on embassies of all countries in China...to perform their duties in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations or relevant international agreements,” said Wang, without any further details. Notably, the convention does not list any prohibitions about political signage being displayed on embassies’ outer walls. The official also told AFP that they “strictly adhere to the Vienna conventions. There is therefore no reason for us to react to this note or to change our display policy”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China warns Western embassies in Beijing over ‘propaganda’ displays: Reports

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, on Wednesday (May 17), announced a two-month extension of the United Nations-backed deal allowing the war-torn to ship grains across the Black Sea to global markets. This comes as the last ship left a Ukrainian port under the deal which was due to expire on Thursday.&nbsp;

“With the efforts of our country, the support of our Russian friends, the contribution of our Ukrainian friends, it was decided to prolong the Black Sea grain deal for two more months,” said the Turkish president, as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp; 
 
In a televised speech, Erdogan also thanked Russian and Ukrainian leaders as well as the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for their help.&nbsp;Russia agreed not to block ships from leaving two Ukrainian harbours, Erdogan said while expressing&nbsp;hope that the deal would be "beneficial for all the parties".

The decision also comes as officials from Russia, Ukraine, Turkey and the UN which make up a Joint Coordination Centre (JCC) gathered in Istanbul, last week, to discuss the extension of the Black Sea pact. 
 
"These agreements matter for global food security -&nbsp;Ukrainian and Russian products feed the world," said&nbsp;Guterres as he welcomed&nbsp;the move, and stressed&nbsp;the need&nbsp;for a more comprehensive, longer-term agreement.

The JCC officials near Turkey typically inspect and authorise ships before it travels to a Ukrainian Black Sea port via a maritime humanitarian corridor to collect their cargo and return to Turkish waters for a final inspection, as per Reuters. However, no vessels had been authorised by the JCC since May 4.&nbsp; 
 
Ukraine is&nbsp;'grateful' to UN, Turkey 
 
After the extension was confirmed,&nbsp;Ukraine's Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov took to Twitter and thanked&nbsp;United Nations and Turkey for their efforts. "The Black Sea Grain Initiative has been unblocked, (and) continues to be valid" until July 18, said&nbsp; Kubrakov, adding that&nbsp;Kyiv was "grateful to our partners" for their efforts in "strengthening food security."

Russia's overall assessment remains unchanged

The extension of the deal was later confirmed by&nbsp;Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova who said that it would help&nbsp;countries in need, adding that Moscow's&nbsp;overall assessment of the situation regarding the deal had not changed. This comes as Russia had threatened to pull out of the deal unless&nbsp;a list of conditions were met. 
 
"Our fundamental assessments of the Istanbul agreements concluded on July 22, 2022, have not changed, and the distortions in their implementation must be corrected as quickly as possible," said&nbsp;Zakharova&nbsp;in a video briefing to the press.&nbsp; 
 
Notably, the UN back in July had agreed to help Moscow with its own agricultural shipments for three years. “There are still a lot of open questions regarding our part of the deal. Now a decision will have to be taken,” said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, on Tuesday.&nbsp;

This comes as Moscow said restrictions on payments, logistics and insurance have amounted to a barrier to shipments. However, the United States has since rejected these complaints and said that Russia is “exporting grain and fertiliser at the same levels, if not higher, than before the full scale invasion.”&nbsp; 
 
Black Sea grain export deal

Among thousands of sanctions imposed by the West against Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, exports of food and fertiliser have not reportedly been a part of any of such restrictions. According to the data from the UN, the DSM Capella, the last vessel now operating under the deal, had left the Ukrainian port of Chornomorsk carrying 30,000 tonnes of corn and was on its way to Turkey.&nbsp;

The UN-Turkey brokered deal allowing the safe passage of ships through the Black Sea began as an initial 120 days in July last year to help tackle a global food crisis which has been exacerbated by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, as the latter is one of the world’s leading grain exporters. In November, last year, the pact was extended after Moscow agreed to a 120-day extension and earlier this year agreed to a 60-day extension, which was to end on May 18.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, on Wednesday (May 17), announced a two-month extension of the United Nations-backed deal allowing the war-torn to ship grains across the Black Sea to global markets.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, on Wednesday (May 17), announced a two-month extension of the United Nations-backed deal allowing the war-torn to ship grains across the Black Sea to global markets. This comes as the last ship left a Ukrainian port under the deal which was due to expire on Thursday. “With the efforts of our country, the support of our Russian friends, the contribution of our Ukrainian friends, it was decided to prolong the Black Sea grain deal for two more months,” said the Turkish president, as quoted by news agency AFP. In a televised speech, Erdogan also thanked Russian and Ukrainian leaders as well as the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for their help. Russia agreed not to block ships from leaving two Ukrainian harbours, Erdogan said while expressing hope that the deal would be "beneficial for all the parties". The decision also comes as officials from Russia, Ukraine, Turkey and the UN which make up a Joint Coordination Centre (JCC) gathered in Istanbul, last week, to discuss the extension of the Black Sea pact. "These agreements matter for global food security - Ukrainian and Russian products feed the world," said Guterres as he welcomed the move, and stressed the need for a more comprehensive, longer-term agreement. The JCC officials near Turkey typically inspect and authorise ships before it travels to a Ukrainian Black Sea port via a maritime humanitarian corridor to collect their cargo and return to Turkish waters for a final inspection, as per Reuters. However, no vessels had been authorised by the JCC since May 4. Ukraine is 'grateful' to UN, Turkey After the extension was confirmed, Ukraine's Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov took to Twitter and thanked United Nations and Turkey for their efforts. "The Black Sea Grain Initiative has been unblocked, (and) continues to be valid" until July 18, said Kubrakov, adding that Kyiv was "grateful to our partners" for their efforts in "strengthening food security." Russia's overall assessment remains unchanged The extension of the deal was later confirmed by Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova who said that it would help countries in need, adding that Moscow's overall assessment of the situation regarding the deal had not changed. This comes as Russia had threatened to pull out of the deal unless a list of conditions were met. "Our fundamental assessments of the Istanbul agreements concluded on July 22, 2022, have not changed, and the distortions in their implementation must be corrected as quickly as possible," said Zakharova in a video briefing to the press. Notably, the UN back in July had agreed to help Moscow with its own agricultural shipments for three years. “There are still a lot of open questions regarding our part of the deal. Now a decision will have to be taken,” said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, on Tuesday. This comes as Moscow said restrictions on payments, logistics and insurance have amounted to a barrier to shipments. However, the United States has since rejected these complaints and said that Russia is “exporting grain and fertiliser at the same levels, if not higher, than before the full scale invasion.” Black Sea grain export deal Among thousands of sanctions imposed by the West against Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, exports of food and fertiliser have not reportedly been a part of any of such restrictions. According to the data from the UN, the DSM Capella, the last vessel now operating under the deal, had left the Ukrainian port of Chornomorsk carrying 30,000 tonnes of corn and was on its way to Turkey. The UN-Turkey brokered deal allowing the safe passage of ships through the Black Sea began as an initial 120 days in July last year to help tackle a global food crisis which has been exacerbated by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, as the latter is one of the world’s leading grain exporters. In November, last year, the pact was extended after Moscow agreed to a 120-day extension and earlier this year agreed to a 60-day extension, which was to end on May 18. (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.

Ukraine grain deal extended for two more months, Russia slams ‘distortions’ in implementation

The defence ministers of the UK and Germany said on Wednesday (May 17) that any decision to send fighter jets to Ukraine rests with the White House. This stand has been despite a jet "coalition" announced by Britain and the Netherlands this week.

"This is up to the White House to decide whether it wants to release that technology," British Defence Minister Ben Wallace said after talks with his German counterpart Boris Pistorius in Berlin.

"It depends on the White House... to decide whether the F16 fighter planes can be delivered," said Pistorius.

On the first day of a Council of Europe summit in Iceland this week, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his Dutch counterpart Mark Rutte had agreed on the fighter jet club.

They said they would build an "international coalition to provide Ukraine with combat air capabilities, supporting with everything from training to procuring F16 jets".

<h2>UK does not have F16s</h2>

British Defence Minister Wallace pointed out that the UK did not have F16 jets and also underlined that there were no plans to send aircraft from its Typhoon fleet.

"But we can help the pipeline... we can enable other people who wish to," he said.

Pistorius said that Germany cannot "play an active role" in such an alliance "because we don't have the training capacity, the skills, or the aircraft".

Olaf Scholz, the German Chancellor also said in Iceland that he did not see any direct 'requirements' for Germany over fighter jets.

<h2>Zelensky again presses for fighter jets</h2>

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been pressing for fighter jets to help Ukraine repel Russia's invasion and repeated the request on a recent tour of the European capitals.

Watch | Ukraine: Russian Kinzhal missiles cannot destroy patriot system&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

Zelensky said in London that he was "very positive" about creating a "jets coalition" in the war against Russia.

Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 last year. After initial territorial gains, Russian troops were forced to retreat from large swathes of Ukrainian land in the face of counterattack from Ukraine. Russia then opted to attack targets in Ukraine using missiles. The missile attacks have and continue to batter Ukraine. The energy grid of the country has been extensively damaged due to the missile attacks.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-eases-citizenship-process-for-foreigners-fighting-for-russia-in-ukraine-593240">Putin eases citizenship process for foreigners fighting for Russia in Ukraine</a>

Along with efforts of its military, the Ukrainian pushback against the Russian war machine has largely been attributed to Western help. Western countries, the European Union and the UK have poured in huge humanitarian and military help. Millions and millions of dollars have been provided to Ukraine. The military help includes ammunitions, missile launchers, tanks, rocket systems and more.

Zelensky has been pushing for fighther jets for air superiority on the battlefield. But this is something Western countries have been dragging their foot about.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

The defence ministers of the UK and Germany said on Wednesday (May 17) that any decision to send fighter jets to Ukraine rests with the White House. This stand has been despite a jet "coalition" announced by Britain and the Netherlands this week.

The defence ministers of the UK and Germany said on Wednesday (May 17) that any decision to send fighter jets to Ukraine rests with the White House. This stand has been despite a jet "coalition" announced by Britain and the Netherlands this week. "This is up to the White House to decide whether it wants to release that technology," British Defence Minister Ben Wallace said after talks with his German counterpart Boris Pistorius in Berlin. "It depends on the White House... to decide whether the F16 fighter planes can be delivered," said Pistorius. On the first day of a Council of Europe summit in Iceland this week, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his Dutch counterpart Mark Rutte had agreed on the fighter jet club. They said they would build an "international coalition to provide Ukraine with combat air capabilities, supporting with everything from training to procuring F16 jets". UK does not have F16s British Defence Minister Wallace pointed out that the UK did not have F16 jets and also underlined that there were no plans to send aircraft from its Typhoon fleet. "But we can help the pipeline... we can enable other people who wish to," he said. Pistorius said that Germany cannot "play an active role" in such an alliance "because we don't have the training capacity, the skills, or the aircraft". Olaf Scholz, the German Chancellor also said in Iceland that he did not see any direct 'requirements' for Germany over fighter jets. Zelensky again presses for fighter jets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been pressing for fighter jets to help Ukraine repel Russia's invasion and repeated the request on a recent tour of the European capitals. Watch | Ukraine: Russian Kinzhal missiles cannot destroy patriot system × Zelensky said in London that he was "very positive" about creating a "jets coalition" in the war against Russia. Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 last year. After initial territorial gains, Russian troops were forced to retreat from large swathes of Ukrainian land in the face of counterattack from Ukraine. Russia then opted to attack targets in Ukraine using missiles. The missile attacks have and continue to batter Ukraine. The energy grid of the country has been extensively damaged due to the missile attacks. Also Read | Putin eases citizenship process for foreigners fighting for Russia in Ukraine Along with efforts of its military, the Ukrainian pushback against the Russian war machine has largely been attributed to Western help. Western countries, the European Union and the UK have poured in huge humanitarian and military help. Millions and millions of dollars have been provided to Ukraine. The military help includes ammunitions, missile launchers, tanks, rocket systems and more. Zelensky has been pushing for fighther jets for air superiority on the battlefield. But this is something Western countries have been dragging their foot about. (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 ×

Delivering F16 fighter jets to Ukraine ‘up to the White House’: UK defence minister

On November 12, 2011, the Arab League suspended the membership of Syria to punish the government of President Bashar al-Assad for cracking down on anti-government protestors with a brutality so savage it shocked even the members of a group with a poor record of concern for human rights.

On May 7, 2023, the 22-member regional group formally re-admitted Syria and this week al-Assad, still a pariah in the eyes of the West, is scheduled to attend an Arab League summit in Saudi Arabia, whose autocratic de facto ruler, Mohammed bin Salman, had been pushing for an end to Syria’s isolation.

The decision to welcome back al-Assad, who has done nothing that would merit an embrace, is an abject lesson to&nbsp;the fact that national self-interest and geopolitics trump human rights. Assad has made no concessions for political reform at home, scoffs at the evidence of war crimes in the 4,194 days between expulsion and re-admission, and made no effort to persuade six million refugees to return home.

The Arab League’s decision also highlighted the waning influence of the United States, once a dominant player in the Middle East, and its Western allies. At a joint press conference in Washington two days after the League’s announcement, US&nbsp;Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and his British counterpart James Cleverly made clear their opposition.

“We do not believe that Syria merits re-admission,” said Blinken. “Our position is clear: We are not going to be in the business of normalising relations with Assad and with that regime.” Not surprisingly, Russia cheered Assad’s return to the fold. “Moscow welcomes this long awaited step of returning Syria to the ‘Arab family’,” said a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-attends-arab-league-meet-after-11-years-592720">ALSO READ |&nbsp;Syria attends Arab League meet after 11 years</a>

The tide of the multi-sided civil war that followed the government’s initial wave of anti-protest repression turned in favour of the Assad regime with the 2015 intervention of Russia. Its air power, combined with Iranian-backed militias on the ground saved the government from collapse and allowed it to re-establish control over most of the country.

At the time, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the war as “a living nightmare” and said, “Syria’s people have endured some of the greatest war crimes the world has witnessed this century.”

There never was much hope that al-Assad and his regime would be held to account for a string of well-documented war crimes - from the systematic torture of prisoners and the bombing of schools and hospitals to the use of chemical weapons. Their most devastating deployment took place in August 2013 with the release of the nerve gas Sarin in the opposition-controlled Damascus district of Ghouta. It killed an estimated 1,400 people, including children.

In the early stages of the conflict, legal experts and human rights activists debated whether the Syrian leader could be prosecuted by the International Criminal Court. But under the treaty that established it, there can be prosecution only for crimes committed in one of the 123 member states. Syria is not a member.

When the war began, policymakers in the United States and its Western allies thought tough economic sanctions would be an effective alternative to military action and expected that it would force the Assad regime to change its behaviour.

So confident were key members of the US administration that Assad would buckle under the combined pressure of sanctions and anti-government forces that the Obama administration’s leading expert on Syria, Frederic Hof, told a Congressional committee that “our view is that this regime is the equivalent of a dead man walking…I do not see this regime surviving.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/syria-scores-big-diplomatic-win-in-11-years-to-attend-arab-league-meeting-after-10-years-592771">WATCH |&nbsp;Syria scores big diplomatic win in 11 years, to attend Arab League meeting after 10 years</a>

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Famous last words. More than a decade and an estimated 300,000 dead civilians later, the West is facing a question yet to be answered: once it is clear that rogue regimes can survive sanctions, should they continue to be applied? Almost everywhere, they have been hurting the civilian population more than their ruthless rulers.

Now that Syria is back with "the Arab family,” what do its members expect? So far, they have not spelt that out explicitly but one key issue for all is the millions of Syrian refugees that the host governments would like to leave their countries. Syrians are a particular burden on Lebanon, numbering close to two million in a population of five.

Another point of “family” contention is Syria’s role as the world’s leading producer and exporter of Captagon, an amphetamine popular in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries. It remains to be seen whether Assad can control the drug lords, including close affiliates, who have become multimillionaires under his rule.

Bashar escaping punishment would complete a family tradition. His father, from whom he inherited his power, also enforced authoritarian rule with mass murder. Even in a Middle East dotted with massacre sites, the way Hafez al-Assad dealt with Moslem Brotherhood dissidents in the city of Hama stood out.

On February 2, 1982, an army raid on militants of the outlawed Brotherhood sparked fighting throughout the city. The government responded by surrounding Hama with tanks and artillery and blasted the densely-populated centre for 27 days, without pause. Estimates of those killed in the assault ranged from 10,000 to 40,000, most of them civilians.

The assault ended a four-year campaign of bombing and assassinations by Sunni Muslims intent on breaking the tight grip on power of the Assad family and the Alawite sect, an offshoot of Shia Islam, to which the Assads belong. The Brotherhood lost, Hafez al-Assad won. A role model for his son, he ruled for another 18 years, until his death of heart problems.

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On November 12, 2011, the Arab League suspended the membership of Syria to punish the government of President Bashar al-Assad for cracking down on anti-government protestors with a brutality so savage it shocked even the members of a group with a poor record of concern for human rights.

On November 12, 2011, the Arab League suspended the membership of Syria to punish the government of President Bashar al-Assad for cracking down on anti-government protestors with a brutality so savage it shocked even the members of a group with a poor record of concern for human rights. On May 7, 2023, the 22-member regional group formally re-admitted Syria and this week al-Assad, still a pariah in the eyes of the West, is scheduled to attend an Arab League summit in Saudi Arabia, whose autocratic de facto ruler, Mohammed bin Salman, had been pushing for an end to Syria’s isolation. The decision to welcome back al-Assad, who has done nothing that would merit an embrace, is an abject lesson to the fact that national self-interest and geopolitics trump human rights. Assad has made no concessions for political reform at home, scoffs at the evidence of war crimes in the 4,194 days between expulsion and re-admission, and made no effort to persuade six million refugees to return home. The Arab League’s decision also highlighted the waning influence of the United States, once a dominant player in the Middle East, and its Western allies. At a joint press conference in Washington two days after the League’s announcement, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and his British counterpart James Cleverly made clear their opposition. “We do not believe that Syria merits re-admission,” said Blinken. “Our position is clear: We are not going to be in the business of normalising relations with Assad and with that regime.” Not surprisingly, Russia cheered Assad’s return to the fold. “Moscow welcomes this long awaited step of returning Syria to the ‘Arab family’,” said a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. ALSO READ | Syria attends Arab League meet after 11 years The tide of the multi-sided civil war that followed the government’s initial wave of anti-protest repression turned in favour of the Assad regime with the 2015 intervention of Russia. Its air power, combined with Iranian-backed militias on the ground saved the government from collapse and allowed it to re-establish control over most of the country. At the time, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the war as “a living nightmare” and said, “Syria’s people have endured some of the greatest war crimes the world has witnessed this century.” There never was much hope that al-Assad and his regime would be held to account for a string of well-documented war crimes - from the systematic torture of prisoners and the bombing of schools and hospitals to the use of chemical weapons. Their most devastating deployment took place in August 2013 with the release of the nerve gas Sarin in the opposition-controlled Damascus district of Ghouta. It killed an estimated 1,400 people, including children. In the early stages of the conflict, legal experts and human rights activists debated whether the Syrian leader could be prosecuted by the International Criminal Court. But under the treaty that established it, there can be prosecution only for crimes committed in one of the 123 member states. Syria is not a member. When the war began, policymakers in the United States and its Western allies thought tough economic sanctions would be an effective alternative to military action and expected that it would force the Assad regime to change its behaviour. So confident were key members of the US administration that Assad would buckle under the combined pressure of sanctions and anti-government forces that the Obama administration’s leading expert on Syria, Frederic Hof, told a Congressional committee that “our view is that this regime is the equivalent of a dead man walking…I do not see this regime surviving.” WATCH | Syria scores big diplomatic win in 11 years, to attend Arab League meeting after 10 years × Famous last words. More than a decade and an estimated 300,000 dead civilians later, the West is facing a question yet to be answered: once it is clear that rogue regimes can survive sanctions, should they continue to be applied? Almost everywhere, they have been hurting the civilian population more than their ruthless rulers. Now that Syria is back with "the Arab family,” what do its members expect? So far, they have not spelt that out explicitly but one key issue for all is the millions of Syrian refugees that the host governments would like to leave their countries. Syrians are a particular burden on Lebanon, numbering close to two million in a population of five. Another point of “family” contention is Syria’s role as the world’s leading producer and exporter of Captagon, an amphetamine popular in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries. It remains to be seen whether Assad can control the drug lords, including close affiliates, who have become multimillionaires under his rule. Bashar escaping punishment would complete a family tradition. His father, from whom he inherited his power, also enforced authoritarian rule with mass murder. Even in a Middle East dotted with massacre sites, the way Hafez al-Assad dealt with Moslem Brotherhood dissidents in the city of Hama stood out. On February 2, 1982, an army raid on militants of the outlawed Brotherhood sparked fighting throughout the city. The government responded by surrounding Hama with tanks and artillery and blasted the densely-populated centre for 27 days, without pause. Estimates of those killed in the assault ranged from 10,000 to 40,000, most of them civilians. The assault ended a four-year campaign of bombing and assassinations by Sunni Muslims intent on breaking the tight grip on power of the Assad family and the Alawite sect, an offshoot of Shia Islam, to which the Assads belong. The Brotherhood lost, Hafez al-Assad won. A role model for his son, he ruled for another 18 years, until his death of heart problems. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

How Syria’s Bashar al-Assad got away with murder

Ukraine on Wednesday denied claims of Russia destroying a US-made Patriot missile defence system using its hypersonic missile during an air strike on Kyiv. 
 
On Tuesday, the defence ministry of Russia made the assertion after carrying out an overnight air raid on the Ukrainian capital. Later, two US officials said that one Patriot defence system appeared to have suffered damage but it was not destroyed in the attacks. 
 
"I want to say: do not worry about the fate of the Patriot," said Ukrainian air force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat while speaking on Ukrainian television. 
 
He further denied the possibility of Russia's "Kinzhal" missile destroying a Patriot system.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-denies-kyivs-air-defences-downed-six-kinzhal-hypersonic-missiles-593082">Moscow denies that Kyiv's air defences downed Kinzhal hypersonic missiles</a>

 
"Destroying the system with some kind of 'Kinzhal', it's impossible. Everything that they say there, it can remain in their propaganda archive," he stated. 
 
The Patriot system falls among the range of sophisticated air defence units which have been supplied to Ukraine by the West to help the warring nation repel Russian air strikes after it was invaded by Moscow last year. 
 
The Patriot defence system is considered among the most advanced US air defence systems which includes cruise missiles, aircraft and ballistic missiles, and typically includes launchers as well as radar and support vehicles. 
 
The Kinzhal missile has been touted by Russian President Vladimir Putin as proof that his country possesses world-beating military hardware. 
 
On Tuesday, Ukraine claimed that its army shot down six Kinzhal missiles which was denied by Russia. It remained unclear which Western weapon was used by the Ukrainian army. The Pentagon made no immediate comment.

<h2>Kyiv joins NATO cyber-defence centre 
&nbsp;</h2>

Ukraine joined the cyber defence centre of NATO, stated the Tallinn-based body on Wednesday, as Kyiv called the move "a step on the way" to getting membership in NATO. 
 
The Western defence alliance's Co-operative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence (CCDCOE) stated that Iceland, Ireland and Japan have also been welcomed into the fold.

WATCH | Russia Ukraine War: Remains of CH-55 missile found in Polish forest near Ukraine border | WION

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"We are particularly glad to see Ukraine here with us," said Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur, in a CCDCOE statement. 
 
"This offers a unique opportunity to simultaneously contribute to Ukraine's defence in Russia's brutal war and learn from the cyber battlefield to improve the cyber security of all members,” he added. 
 
Meanwhile, Ukraine's ambassador to Estonia Mariana Betsa called the "landmark event" as "an important step on the way to Ukraine's accession to NATO".&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine on Wednesday denied claims of Russia destroying a US-made Patriot missile defence system using its hypersonic missile during an air strike on Kyiv. On Tuesday, the defence ministry of Russia made the assertion after carrying out an overnight air raid on the Ukrainian capital.

Ukraine on Wednesday denied claims of Russia destroying a US-made Patriot missile defence system using its hypersonic missile during an air strike on Kyiv. On Tuesday, the defence ministry of Russia made the assertion after carrying out an overnight air raid on the Ukrainian capital. Later, two US officials said that one Patriot defence system appeared to have suffered damage but it was not destroyed in the attacks. "I want to say: do not worry about the fate of the Patriot," said Ukrainian air force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat while speaking on Ukrainian television. He further denied the possibility of Russia's "Kinzhal" missile destroying a Patriot system. ALSO READ | Moscow denies that Kyiv's air defences downed Kinzhal hypersonic missiles "Destroying the system with some kind of 'Kinzhal', it's impossible. Everything that they say there, it can remain in their propaganda archive," he stated. The Patriot system falls among the range of sophisticated air defence units which have been supplied to Ukraine by the West to help the warring nation repel Russian air strikes after it was invaded by Moscow last year. The Patriot defence system is considered among the most advanced US air defence systems which includes cruise missiles, aircraft and ballistic missiles, and typically includes launchers as well as radar and support vehicles. The Kinzhal missile has been touted by Russian President Vladimir Putin as proof that his country possesses world-beating military hardware. On Tuesday, Ukraine claimed that its army shot down six Kinzhal missiles which was denied by Russia. It remained unclear which Western weapon was used by the Ukrainian army. The Pentagon made no immediate comment. Kyiv joins NATO cyber-defence centre Ukraine joined the cyber defence centre of NATO, stated the Tallinn-based body on Wednesday, as Kyiv called the move "a step on the way" to getting membership in NATO. The Western defence alliance's Co-operative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence (CCDCOE) stated that Iceland, Ireland and Japan have also been welcomed into the fold. WATCH | Russia Ukraine War: Remains of CH-55 missile found in Polish forest near Ukraine border | WION "We are particularly glad to see Ukraine here with us," said Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur, in a CCDCOE statement. "This offers a unique opportunity to simultaneously contribute to Ukraine's defence in Russia's brutal war and learn from the cyber battlefield to improve the cyber security of all members,” he added. Meanwhile, Ukraine's ambassador to Estonia Mariana Betsa called the "landmark event" as "an important step on the way to Ukraine's accession to NATO". (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 refutes claims of Russia destroying Patriot defence system using hypersonic missile

The Ukrainian forces claimed to have shot down at least six Russian hypersonic Kinzhal missiles in an overnight missile barrage of nearly 20 missiles and drones, a weapon which Moscow has previously touted as all but unstoppable. Meanwhile, Russia said it hit “all assigned targets” in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Ukrainian Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar, on Tuesday, said that their military has reclaimed about 20 square kilometres of territory from the Russian forces in the past few days around Bakhmut. This comes amid speculations that Kyiv has begun its long-promised spring counter-offensive to take back the Russian-controlled regions.&nbsp;

Overnight barrage of missiles

Air raid sirens were sounded across Ukraine, early Tuesday, for over three hours. After which Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov took to Twitter and wrote, “Another unbelievable success for the Ukrainian Air Forces! Last night, our sky defenders shot down SIX russian hypersonic Kinzhal missiles and 12 other missiles.”

It was also said that some 18 missiles were launched at Ukraine overnight where flashes and raining debris were seen in Kyiv, as per Reuters. Out of the 18 projectiles, six were Kinzhals hypersonic missiles, while others were ballistic missiles which travel at up to 10 times the speed of sound, as per media reports.&nbsp;

According to Ukrainian officials, all of the 18 missiles and nine drones launched by Russia overnight were destroyed. This also comes weeks after Kyiv had said it downed its first Kinzhal missile after receiving its first US Patriot air defence system in April. However, this time around Ukrainian officials did not specify which weapons were used to counter the attack on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Ukrainian city officials in Kyiv also reported that three people were injured by the falling debris. “It was exceptional in its density - the maximum number of attack missiles in the shortest period of time,” said the head of Kyiv’s city military administration, Serhiy Popko, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

The Commander-in-chief of Ukraine’s armed forces, Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, also confirmed that all missiles had been successfully intercepted, adding that six Kinzhals were launched from aircraft, nine Kalibr cruise missiles from ships in the Black Sea and three Iskanders fired from land.&nbsp;

Russia hits targets in Ukraine

After the missile barrage, the Russian defence ministry released a statement and said that they used long-range precision-strike missiles to target storage facilities hosting “ammunition, weapons and military equipment supplied by Western countries.” It added that “all assigned targets have been hit”.&nbsp;

According to a report by the Zvezda military news outlet, the Russian defence minister also said that it destroyed the US-made Patriot surface-to-air missile defence system with a Kinzhal missile.&nbsp;

Ukraine makes gains around Bakhmut

Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar while announcing the reclamation of 20 square kilometres of territory also reiterated that Ukrainian advances around Bakhmut are not part of a broader counteroffensive planned by Kyiv and these developments should not be “taken out of context”.&nbsp;

“For example, within a few days, our troops liberated about 20 square kilometers from the enemy in the north and south of the suburbs of Bakhmut,” Maliar wrote on Telegram. She added that at the same time, Russia is “advancing somewhat in Bakhmut itself, completely destroying the city with artillery”.&nbsp;

This also comes after Moscow acknowledged that some of its forces had fallen back from the north of the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut following a new Ukrainian offensive. However, Maliar also said that Russia is sending new paratroopers while “heavy battles continue with different results”.&nbsp;

Attacks in Ukraine’s Kherson

Ukrainian official and head of regional administration in Kherson, Oleksandr Prokudin, as per Reuters, said Russia launched at least 80 artillery attacks on the region including artillery attacks on the city of Kherson. At least six people, including a child, were injured when a residential area was hit.&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. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The Ukrainian forces claimed to have shot down at least six Russian hypersonic Kinzhal missiles in an overnight missile barrage of nearly 20 missiles and drones, a weapon which Moscow has previously touted as all but unstoppable.

The Ukrainian forces claimed to have shot down at least six Russian hypersonic Kinzhal missiles in an overnight missile barrage of nearly 20 missiles and drones, a weapon which Moscow has previously touted as all but unstoppable. Meanwhile, Russia said it hit “all assigned targets” in Ukraine. Ukrainian Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar, on Tuesday, said that their military has reclaimed about 20 square kilometres of territory from the Russian forces in the past few days around Bakhmut. This comes amid speculations that Kyiv has begun its long-promised spring counter-offensive to take back the Russian-controlled regions. Overnight barrage of missiles Air raid sirens were sounded across Ukraine, early Tuesday, for over three hours. After which Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov took to Twitter and wrote, “Another unbelievable success for the Ukrainian Air Forces! Last night, our sky defenders shot down SIX russian hypersonic Kinzhal missiles and 12 other missiles.” It was also said that some 18 missiles were launched at Ukraine overnight where flashes and raining debris were seen in Kyiv, as per Reuters. Out of the 18 projectiles, six were Kinzhals hypersonic missiles, while others were ballistic missiles which travel at up to 10 times the speed of sound, as per media reports. According to Ukrainian officials, all of the 18 missiles and nine drones launched by Russia overnight were destroyed. This also comes weeks after Kyiv had said it downed its first Kinzhal missile after receiving its first US Patriot air defence system in April. However, this time around Ukrainian officials did not specify which weapons were used to counter the attack on Tuesday. Ukrainian city officials in Kyiv also reported that three people were injured by the falling debris. “It was exceptional in its density - the maximum number of attack missiles in the shortest period of time,” said the head of Kyiv’s city military administration, Serhiy Popko, as quoted by Reuters. The Commander-in-chief of Ukraine’s armed forces, Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, also confirmed that all missiles had been successfully intercepted, adding that six Kinzhals were launched from aircraft, nine Kalibr cruise missiles from ships in the Black Sea and three Iskanders fired from land. Russia hits targets in Ukraine After the missile barrage, the Russian defence ministry released a statement and said that they used long-range precision-strike missiles to target storage facilities hosting “ammunition, weapons and military equipment supplied by Western countries.” It added that “all assigned targets have been hit”. According to a report by the Zvezda military news outlet, the Russian defence minister also said that it destroyed the US-made Patriot surface-to-air missile defence system with a Kinzhal missile. Ukraine makes gains around Bakhmut Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar while announcing the reclamation of 20 square kilometres of territory also reiterated that Ukrainian advances around Bakhmut are not part of a broader counteroffensive planned by Kyiv and these developments should not be “taken out of context”. “For example, within a few days, our troops liberated about 20 square kilometers from the enemy in the north and south of the suburbs of Bakhmut,” Maliar wrote on Telegram. She added that at the same time, Russia is “advancing somewhat in Bakhmut itself, completely destroying the city with artillery”. This also comes after Moscow acknowledged that some of its forces had fallen back from the north of the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut following a new Ukrainian offensive. However, Maliar also said that Russia is sending new paratroopers while “heavy battles continue with different results”. Attacks in Ukraine’s Kherson Ukrainian official and head of regional administration in Kherson, Oleksandr Prokudin, as per Reuters, said Russia launched at least 80 artillery attacks on the region including artillery attacks on the city of Kherson. At least six people, including a child, were injured when a residential area was hit. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine claims gains in Bakhmut, shooting down Russian missiles and drones amid overnight barrage

Officials in Ukraine said on Tuesday (May 16) that they have detained the head of the country’s Supreme Court in a $2.7 million bribery inquiry. This comes as the war-torn country is pursuing anti-graft measures which are vital to meet the conditions for joining the European Union.&nbsp;

“The head of the Supreme Court has been detained,” said Oleksandr Omelchenko, a prosecutor who is a part of Kyiv’s Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO). He also said that the detention was over a suspected bribery scheme which is awaiting a formal “notice of suspicion”.&nbsp;

However, the prosecutor named one of the two judges, Ukraine’s President of the Supreme Court Vsevolod Kniaziev while the other individual remains unknown. The head of Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU), Semen Kryvonos, called this the “biggest-ever case” which could implicate the country’s judiciary.&nbsp;

In a joint press conference with NABU, Omelchenko also said, “At this time, the head of the Supreme Court has been detained and measures are being taken to check other individuals for involvement in criminal activity”.&nbsp;

The anti-corruption officials have alleged that Ukrainian billionaire Kostiantyn Zhevago, owner of Finance and Credit financial group, offered a bribe to court officials while a law firm acted as an intermediary. However, Zhevago has denied wrongdoing. The officials have also said that the Ukrainian billionaire had transferred $2.7 million to the lawyers, out of which $1.8 million was to be paid to Supreme Court justices, reported AFP. &nbsp;

Additionally, some $900,000 was given to lawyers for their “services as intermediaries”. Zhevago, who was also a member of the Ukrainian parliament, is currently detained in France on suspicion of money laundering and embezzling funds in Kyiv. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Supreme Court conducted an emergency session where it condemned the corruption and said it would fully cooperate with the investigation.&nbsp;

Additionally, the court has also initiated a process for expressing no confidence in Kniaziev. According to the officials in Kyiv, Zhevago had hoped to bribe the court which could allow him to keep control of his shares which were in the centre of a dispute with former shareholders.&nbsp;

Notably, while Ukraine is in the midst of a conflict with Russia, it has ramped up its efforts to battle against corruption in a bid to join the EU. Earlier this year, multiple officials in Kyiv were dismissed or resigned following accusations of corruption.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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Officials in Ukraine said on Tuesday (May 16) that they have detained the head of the country’s Supreme Court in a $2.7 million bribery inquiry. This comes as the war-torn country is pursuing anti-graft measures which are vital to meet the conditions for joining the European Union.

Officials in Ukraine said on Tuesday (May 16) that they have detained the head of the country’s Supreme Court in a $2.7 million bribery inquiry. This comes as the war-torn country is pursuing anti-graft measures which are vital to meet the conditions for joining the European Union. “The head of the Supreme Court has been detained,” said Oleksandr Omelchenko, a prosecutor who is a part of Kyiv’s Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO). He also said that the detention was over a suspected bribery scheme which is awaiting a formal “notice of suspicion”. However, the prosecutor named one of the two judges, Ukraine’s President of the Supreme Court Vsevolod Kniaziev while the other individual remains unknown. The head of Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU), Semen Kryvonos, called this the “biggest-ever case” which could implicate the country’s judiciary. In a joint press conference with NABU, Omelchenko also said, “At this time, the head of the Supreme Court has been detained and measures are being taken to check other individuals for involvement in criminal activity”. The anti-corruption officials have alleged that Ukrainian billionaire Kostiantyn Zhevago, owner of Finance and Credit financial group, offered a bribe to court officials while a law firm acted as an intermediary. However, Zhevago has denied wrongdoing. The officials have also said that the Ukrainian billionaire had transferred $2.7 million to the lawyers, out of which $1.8 million was to be paid to Supreme Court justices, reported AFP. Additionally, some $900,000 was given to lawyers for their “services as intermediaries”. Zhevago, who was also a member of the Ukrainian parliament, is currently detained in France on suspicion of money laundering and embezzling funds in Kyiv. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Supreme Court conducted an emergency session where it condemned the corruption and said it would fully cooperate with the investigation. Additionally, the court has also initiated a process for expressing no confidence in Kniaziev. According to the officials in Kyiv, Zhevago had hoped to bribe the court which could allow him to keep control of his shares which were in the centre of a dispute with former shareholders. Notably, while Ukraine is in the midst of a conflict with Russia, it has ramped up its efforts to battle against corruption in a bid to join the EU. Earlier this year, multiple officials in Kyiv were dismissed or resigned following accusations of corruption. (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.

Ukraine detains Supreme Court chief in $2.7 million corruption case

The Russian defence ministry, on Monday (May 15) said that it had scrambled a Su-27 fighter jet over the Baltic Sea after one German and one French aircraft attempted to “violate” its air space after it detected them flying towards Moscow. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian military hailed its recent advances around Bakhmut after its first successful counterattack against Russian forces.&nbsp;

Russia says it scrambled jets

In a statement, the Russian defence ministry said that the two aircraft had attempted to “violate” its airspace. It added, “After turning the foreign military planes away from the Russian Federation state border, the Russian fighter returned safely to its airbase.”&nbsp;

The two aircraft in question were a P-3C Orion German patrol plane, and French Navy’s anti-submarine patrol aircraft Atlantique 2. However, France and Germany, confirming the incident, said their planes were conducting their regular flights as part of a NATO exercise and acted in accordance with international law.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-president-zelensky-eyes-jets-coalition-during-meeting-with-uk-pm-sunak-592677">Ukraine President Zelensky eyes 'jets coalition' during meeting with UK PM Sunak</a>

Germany said that its aircraft was on a “surveillance mission over the Baltic Sea” and “flying as per standard” towards Kaliningrad, which is a Russian exclave wedged between Poland and Lithuania. It added, “There was never any intention to enter Russian airspace, these aircraft always keep a safe distance. These flights are routine, and we don't do anything to cause a provocation.”&nbsp;

While France also said that their approach in the international airspace over the Baltic Sea was “professional and controlled.”

Ukraine hails success in Bakhmut

The Ukrainian military hailed its first successful counterattack amid the ongoing conflict against Russia but said that the situation there remains “difficult”. It also cautioned that Moscow has not changed its plan to capture the city and is sending troops to the outskirts of the city.&nbsp;

“The Russians have not changed their goals. They are sending assault troops to the outskirts of Bakhmut,” said Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar.&nbsp;

“The advance of our troops along the Bakhmut direction is the first success of offensive actions in the defence of Bakhmut,” said Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander of Ground Forces, on messaging app Telegram. He added, “The last few days have shown that we can move forward and destroy the enemy even in such extremely difficult conditions.”&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-kyivs-forces-retake-key-territory-near-bakhmut-592348">Russia-Ukraine War: Kyiv's forces retake key territory near Bakhmut</a>

This comes as the Ukrainian military said last week it had started to push Russian forces back in and around Bakhmut which has witnessed some of the bloodiest battles on the frontlines. Furthermore, Russia later acknowledged that its forces had fallen back from the north of the city.&nbsp;

Russia claims downing UK storm shadow missile

The Russian defence ministry for the first time also claimed to have downed a long-range Storm Shadow missile fired by Ukrainian forces which they have procured from the United Kingdom. “Air defence systems intercepted seven HARM anti-radar missiles, one Storm Shadow long-range cruise missile,” as well as 10 projectiles fired by HIMARS, said Russian defence ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov during a press briefing as per AFP.&nbsp;

Russian official, teen among seven others injured after blast in Russia-controlled Luhansk

According to the head of the Russian-backed head of the Luhansk People’s Republic (LNR), at least seven people including a Russian-installed senior official and a teenager were wounded after an explosion took place at the centre of the Russian-controlled Luhansk in eastern Ukraine, on Monday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-iran-and-russia-expanding-their-unprecedented-defence-partnership-592729">US says Iran and Russia expanding their 'unprecedented defence' partnership</a>

“As a result of an explosion in the center of Luhansk, seven people were injured,” said Leonid Pasechnik, the head of LNR, on his social media. He also said how the head of the local Interior Ministry, Igor Kornet, the 17-year-old teenager, and four others were in a “serious condition.” Preliminary information suggested that the blast took place during rush hour.&nbsp;

WHO announces closure of Moscow office over the conflict&nbsp;

The World Health Organization’s European office said that they are shutting a specialised WHO office in Moscow and moving its functions to Denmark. This comes after a meeting held on Monday which took place when a group of 30 member states requested a special session back in April.&nbsp;

“Office for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases,” in Moscow with its function will be relocated to Denmark, no later than January 1, 2024, said the health body. The letter sent in April which sought the meeting also noted that the “immediate and long-term health impacts in Ukraine and beyond” due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine remain a “matter of utmost concern”.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The Russian defence ministry, on Monday (May 15) said that it had scrambled a Su-27 fighter jet over the Baltic Sea after one German and one French aircraft attempted to “violate” its air space after it detected them flying towards Moscow.

The Russian defence ministry, on Monday (May 15) said that it had scrambled a Su-27 fighter jet over the Baltic Sea after one German and one French aircraft attempted to “violate” its air space after it detected them flying towards Moscow. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian military hailed its recent advances around Bakhmut after its first successful counterattack against Russian forces. Russia says it scrambled jets In a statement, the Russian defence ministry said that the two aircraft had attempted to “violate” its airspace. It added, “After turning the foreign military planes away from the Russian Federation state border, the Russian fighter returned safely to its airbase.” The two aircraft in question were a P-3C Orion German patrol plane, and French Navy’s anti-submarine patrol aircraft Atlantique 2. However, France and Germany, confirming the incident, said their planes were conducting their regular flights as part of a NATO exercise and acted in accordance with international law. ALSO READ | Ukraine President Zelensky eyes 'jets coalition' during meeting with UK PM Sunak Germany said that its aircraft was on a “surveillance mission over the Baltic Sea” and “flying as per standard” towards Kaliningrad, which is a Russian exclave wedged between Poland and Lithuania. It added, “There was never any intention to enter Russian airspace, these aircraft always keep a safe distance. These flights are routine, and we don't do anything to cause a provocation.” While France also said that their approach in the international airspace over the Baltic Sea was “professional and controlled.” Ukraine hails success in Bakhmut The Ukrainian military hailed its first successful counterattack amid the ongoing conflict against Russia but said that the situation there remains “difficult”. It also cautioned that Moscow has not changed its plan to capture the city and is sending troops to the outskirts of the city. “The Russians have not changed their goals. They are sending assault troops to the outskirts of Bakhmut,” said Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar. “The advance of our troops along the Bakhmut direction is the first success of offensive actions in the defence of Bakhmut,” said Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander of Ground Forces, on messaging app Telegram. He added, “The last few days have shown that we can move forward and destroy the enemy even in such extremely difficult conditions.” ALSO WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Kyiv's forces retake key territory near Bakhmut This comes as the Ukrainian military said last week it had started to push Russian forces back in and around Bakhmut which has witnessed some of the bloodiest battles on the frontlines. Furthermore, Russia later acknowledged that its forces had fallen back from the north of the city. Russia claims downing UK storm shadow missile The Russian defence ministry for the first time also claimed to have downed a long-range Storm Shadow missile fired by Ukrainian forces which they have procured from the United Kingdom. “Air defence systems intercepted seven HARM anti-radar missiles, one Storm Shadow long-range cruise missile,” as well as 10 projectiles fired by HIMARS, said Russian defence ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov during a press briefing as per AFP. Russian official, teen among seven others injured after blast in Russia-controlled Luhansk According to the head of the Russian-backed head of the Luhansk People’s Republic (LNR), at least seven people including a Russian-installed senior official and a teenager were wounded after an explosion took place at the centre of the Russian-controlled Luhansk in eastern Ukraine, on Monday. ALSO READ | US says Iran and Russia expanding their 'unprecedented defence' partnership “As a result of an explosion in the center of Luhansk, seven people were injured,” said Leonid Pasechnik, the head of LNR, on his social media. He also said how the head of the local Interior Ministry, Igor Kornet, the 17-year-old teenager, and four others were in a “serious condition.” Preliminary information suggested that the blast took place during rush hour. WHO announces closure of Moscow office over the conflict The World Health Organization’s European office said that they are shutting a specialised WHO office in Moscow and moving its functions to Denmark. This comes after a meeting held on Monday which took place when a group of 30 member states requested a special session back in April. “Office for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases,” in Moscow with its function will be relocated to Denmark, no later than January 1, 2024, said the health body. The letter sent in April which sought the meeting also noted that the “immediate and long-term health impacts in Ukraine and beyond” due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine remain a “matter of utmost concern”. (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 intercepts NATO jets over Baltic Sea; Ukraine hails first offensive success in Bakhmut

Poland's defence minister said on Monday (May 15) that the country has received the first batch of US-made HIMARS rocket launchers. The country plans to deploy the rocket launchers in the region bordering Russia, Mariusz Blaszczak said.&nbsp;

"This weapon will be deployed in the northeastern part of our country... its task will be to deter the aggressor," Blaszczak told reporters.

The defence ministry had said in March that the long-range precision rocket systems will be stationed at a military unit based in Oslztyn. This is about 80 kilometres from the border with Russia's Kaliningrad enclave.

Blaszczak said the HIMARS launchers would "strengthen the Polish army on the eastern flank of Poland and the eastern flank of the North Atlantic Alliance."

Poland shares borders with Russia as well as Ukraine. Poland staunchly supports Ukraine which is currently being invaded by Russia. In 2019, Poland bought 20 HIMARS from the US. It has now received first delivery of the systems.

But Warsaw has said it has negotiated with the United States to acquire more launchers of that type.

"The US Congress has approved the sale of almost 500 launchers to Poland. These launchers will be brought to Poland as soon as possible," Blaszczak said.&nbsp;

"We want to ensure that under this new, negotiated contract, co-production of HIMARS, both launchers and rockets, takes place in Poland. This is the goal we set for ourselves," he added.&nbsp;

Poland announced a sharp increase in defence spending in late January to four per cent of gross domestic product, with the prime minister saying the country needed to arm itself "faster" in light of Russia's war in Ukraine.

<h2>What is HIMARS?</h2>

HIMARS or M142 High Mobility Artilley Rocket System includes a missile launching system mounted on a five-tonne truck. HIMARS can fire six guided missiles in quick succession. The system has already been supplied to Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that HIMARS has helped change course of the country's war with Russia.

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Poland's defence minister said on Monday (May 15) that the country has received the first batch of US-made HIMARS rocket launchers. The country plans to deploy the rocket launchers in the region bordering Russia, Mariusz Blaszczak said.

Poland's defence minister said on Monday (May 15) that the country has received the first batch of US-made HIMARS rocket launchers. The country plans to deploy the rocket launchers in the region bordering Russia, Mariusz Blaszczak said. "This weapon will be deployed in the northeastern part of our country... its task will be to deter the aggressor," Blaszczak told reporters. The defence ministry had said in March that the long-range precision rocket systems will be stationed at a military unit based in Oslztyn. This is about 80 kilometres from the border with Russia's Kaliningrad enclave. Blaszczak said the HIMARS launchers would "strengthen the Polish army on the eastern flank of Poland and the eastern flank of the North Atlantic Alliance." Poland shares borders with Russia as well as Ukraine. Poland staunchly supports Ukraine which is currently being invaded by Russia. In 2019, Poland bought 20 HIMARS from the US. It has now received first delivery of the systems. But Warsaw has said it has negotiated with the United States to acquire more launchers of that type. "The US Congress has approved the sale of almost 500 launchers to Poland. These launchers will be brought to Poland as soon as possible," Blaszczak said. "We want to ensure that under this new, negotiated contract, co-production of HIMARS, both launchers and rockets, takes place in Poland. This is the goal we set for ourselves," he added. Poland announced a sharp increase in defence spending in late January to four per cent of gross domestic product, with the prime minister saying the country needed to arm itself "faster" in light of Russia's war in Ukraine. What is HIMARS? HIMARS or M142 High Mobility Artilley Rocket System includes a missile launching system mounted on a five-tonne truck. HIMARS can fire six guided missiles in quick succession. The system has already been supplied to Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that HIMARS has helped change course of the country's war with Russia. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Poland gets first HIMARS launchers, will deploy near border with Russia

Germany's defence ministry on Saturday announced that they are preparing the country's biggest yet military aid package for Ukraine, which is worth 2.7 billion euros ($2.95 billion) ahead of President Volodymyr Zelensky's trip to Berlin.

"We all hope for a rapid end to this terrible war by Russia against the Ukrainian people, but unfortunately this is not in sight," said Defence Minister Boris Pistorius in a statement.

"This is why Germany will supply all the help that it can, for as long as necessary," he added.

Welcoming the weapons package from Germany, which includes 30 additional Leopard-1 tanks, Marder armoured vehicles, air-defence systems and surveillance drones, Kyiv said that Moscow may now not see a victory in the war.

President Zelensky's adviser Mykhailo Podolyak said the new arms package of Germany indicates that Russia was "bound to lose and sit on the bench of historical shame."

Increasingly powerful weapons have been delivered by the Western allies to Ukraine though they have still not given advanced fighter jets which Zelensky has requested.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-delivers-long-range-storm-shadow-cruise-missiles-to-ukraine-591384">UK delivers long-range ‘Storm Shadow’ cruise missiles to Ukraine</a>

<h2>Kyiv says 'moving forward' along Bakhmut front line</h2>

Ukraine's senior military commander on Saturday said that Kyiv's forces are advancing along part of the Bakhmut front line against Russian forces.

"Our soldiers are moving forward in some areas of the front, and the enemy is losing equipment and manpower," said the commander of the Ukrainian ground forces Oleksandr Syrskyi on social media.

Kyiv on Friday stated it had re-captured swathes of the area near Bakhmut, although Moscow insisted that the attack was repelled along a broad stretch of the front line.

WATCH | Russia acknowledges retreat north of Bakhmut, Wagner boss calls it a 'rout'

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<h2>Kyiv using UK missiles to hit 'civilian targets', alleges Moscow</h2>

Moscow on Saturday said that British long-range missiles are being used by Kyiv to hit civilian sites in the eastern city of Lugansk where six children have been injured.

On Friday evening, the defence ministry said that two civilian enterprises have been hit by Ukraine's armed forces, adding: "Storm Shadow air-to-air missiles supplied to the Kyiv regime by Great Britain were used for the strike, despite London's declarations that these weapons would not be used against civilian targets.”

This week, the UK government announced that it would send Storm Shadow missiles, which made it the first nation to provide longer-range weapons to Kyiv, in what Russia said is "an extremely hostile step".

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<section>
(With inputs from agencies)

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Germany's defence ministry on Saturday announced that they are preparing the country's biggest yet military aid package for Ukraine, which is worth 2.7 billion euros ($2.

Germany's defence ministry on Saturday announced that they are preparing the country's biggest yet military aid package for Ukraine, which is worth 2.7 billion euros ($2.95 billion) ahead of President Volodymyr Zelensky's trip to Berlin. "We all hope for a rapid end to this terrible war by Russia against the Ukrainian people, but unfortunately this is not in sight," said Defence Minister Boris Pistorius in a statement. "This is why Germany will supply all the help that it can, for as long as necessary," he added. Welcoming the weapons package from Germany, which includes 30 additional Leopard-1 tanks, Marder armoured vehicles, air-defence systems and surveillance drones, Kyiv said that Moscow may now not see a victory in the war. President Zelensky's adviser Mykhailo Podolyak said the new arms package of Germany indicates that Russia was "bound to lose and sit on the bench of historical shame." Increasingly powerful weapons have been delivered by the Western allies to Ukraine though they have still not given advanced fighter jets which Zelensky has requested. ALSO READ | UK delivers long-range ‘Storm Shadow’ cruise missiles to Ukraine Kyiv says 'moving forward' along Bakhmut front line Ukraine's senior military commander on Saturday said that Kyiv's forces are advancing along part of the Bakhmut front line against Russian forces. "Our soldiers are moving forward in some areas of the front, and the enemy is losing equipment and manpower," said the commander of the Ukrainian ground forces Oleksandr Syrskyi on social media. Kyiv on Friday stated it had re-captured swathes of the area near Bakhmut, although Moscow insisted that the attack was repelled along a broad stretch of the front line. WATCH | Russia acknowledges retreat north of Bakhmut, Wagner boss calls it a 'rout' Kyiv using UK missiles to hit 'civilian targets', alleges Moscow Moscow on Saturday said that British long-range missiles are being used by Kyiv to hit civilian sites in the eastern city of Lugansk where six children have been injured. On Friday evening, the defence ministry said that two civilian enterprises have been hit by Ukraine's armed forces, adding: "Storm Shadow air-to-air missiles supplied to the Kyiv regime by Great Britain were used for the strike, despite London's declarations that these weapons would not be used against civilian targets.” This week, the UK government announced that it would send Storm Shadow missiles, which made it the first nation to provide longer-range weapons to Kyiv, in what Russia said is "an extremely hostile step". (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

'Moscow bound to lose', says Kyiv after Germany announces biggest arms package

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held talks at the Vatican with Pope Francis, who had stated in late April that the Holy See is working on a peace mission which aims to end the war with Russia.

During their 40-minute private&nbsp;audience,&nbsp;Zelensky and Pope Francis&nbsp;discussed the need to help "innocent victims" of the conflict, stated the Vatican.

They talked about issues relating to "the humanitarian and political situation in Ukraine caused by the ongoing war", read a Vatican statement.

Zelensky was assured by the 86-year-old pontiff "of his constant prayers, witnessed by his many public appeals and continuous invocation to the Lord for peace since February last year", when Ukraine was invaded by&nbsp;Russia.

"Together they agreed on the need to continue humanitarian efforts to support the population. The pope stressed, in particular, the urgent need for 'human gestures' towards the most fragile people, innocent victims of the conflict," the statement read.&nbsp;

Zelensky appealed to the pope to "join" Kyiv's 10-point peace plan. Talking about the 19,500 children which Kyiv estimates have been taken to&nbsp;Russia or Russian-occupied Crimea from February 2022,&nbsp;Zelensky tweeted, "We must make every effort to return them home." He added that&nbsp;he had discussed the issue&nbsp;with the pope.

Pope Francis has repeatedly called for peace in Ukraine after it was invaded by Russia in February 2022 and has offered to play the role of mediator with Moscow, although it did not yield any public results.

"An important visit for approaching victory of Ukraine!" tweeted Zelensky shortly after he reached Rome, which marks his first visit to EU and NATO member Italy since Ukraine has been invaded by Russia in February 2022.

Security was tightened in Rome for Zelensky's visit which started with a formal welcome by President Sergio Mattarella at the Quirinale Palace as more than 100 people gathered nearby holding Ukrainian flags.

<h2>Italy extends military and financial support to Ukraine</h2>

Italy's leaders on Saturday promised Ukraine's Zelensky complete military and financial backing and reiterated their support for the country's EU membership bid as President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Rome for the first time after the war began.

Zelensky held talks with Italy's President Sergio Mattarella and then Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni before heading to the Vatican for meeting Pope Francis.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-set-to-meet-pope-as-germany-announces-more-arms-for-ukraine-592061">Zelensky set to meet Pope as Germany announces more arms for Ukraine</a>

Both Meloni and Mattarella ensured full support of Italy in terms of military, financial, humanitarian and reconstruction aid to Ukraine in the short and long period.

Meloni held a press conference with Zelensky after her meeting, where she criticised Russia's "brutal and unjust aggression" and pledged support to Ukraine for "as long as is necessary”, further appealing to Russia to immediately withdraw.

"You can't achieve peace through a surrender," she stated, echoing Mattarella's previous comment. "It would be a very grave precedent for all nations of the world,” she added.

She further emphasised Italy's support for Ukraine's membership of the European Union and the "intensification" of a partnership with NATO.

WATCH | Russia acknowledges retreat north of Bakhmut, Wagner boss calls it a 'rout'

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While heading towards the presidential palace, Zelensky's motorcade passed by small groups of people who held Ukrainian flags. A signboard was held by one person condemning Russia.

Zelensky went to Rome onboard an Italian government plane which was escorted by fighter jets over Italian airspace. On Sunday, he will be travelling to Germany.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held talks at the Vatican with Pope Francis, who had stated in late April that the Holy See is working on a peace mission which aims to end the war with Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held talks at the Vatican with Pope Francis, who had stated in late April that the Holy See is working on a peace mission which aims to end the war with Russia. During their 40-minute private audience, Zelensky and Pope Francis discussed the need to help "innocent victims" of the conflict, stated the Vatican. They talked about issues relating to "the humanitarian and political situation in Ukraine caused by the ongoing war", read a Vatican statement. Zelensky was assured by the 86-year-old pontiff "of his constant prayers, witnessed by his many public appeals and continuous invocation to the Lord for peace since February last year", when Ukraine was invaded by Russia. "Together they agreed on the need to continue humanitarian efforts to support the population. The pope stressed, in particular, the urgent need for 'human gestures' towards the most fragile people, innocent victims of the conflict," the statement read. Zelensky appealed to the pope to "join" Kyiv's 10-point peace plan. Talking about the 19,500 children which Kyiv estimates have been taken to Russia or Russian-occupied Crimea from February 2022, Zelensky tweeted, "We must make every effort to return them home." He added that he had discussed the issue with the pope. Pope Francis has repeatedly called for peace in Ukraine after it was invaded by Russia in February 2022 and has offered to play the role of mediator with Moscow, although it did not yield any public results. "An important visit for approaching victory of Ukraine!" tweeted Zelensky shortly after he reached Rome, which marks his first visit to EU and NATO member Italy since Ukraine has been invaded by Russia in February 2022. Security was tightened in Rome for Zelensky's visit which started with a formal welcome by President Sergio Mattarella at the Quirinale Palace as more than 100 people gathered nearby holding Ukrainian flags. Italy extends military and financial support to Ukraine Italy's leaders on Saturday promised Ukraine's Zelensky complete military and financial backing and reiterated their support for the country's EU membership bid as President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Rome for the first time after the war began. Zelensky held talks with Italy's President Sergio Mattarella and then Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni before heading to the Vatican for meeting Pope Francis. ALSO READ | Zelensky set to meet Pope as Germany announces more arms for Ukraine Both Meloni and Mattarella ensured full support of Italy in terms of military, financial, humanitarian and reconstruction aid to Ukraine in the short and long period. Meloni held a press conference with Zelensky after her meeting, where she criticised Russia's "brutal and unjust aggression" and pledged support to Ukraine for "as long as is necessary”, further appealing to Russia to immediately withdraw. "You can't achieve peace through a surrender," she stated, echoing Mattarella's previous comment. "It would be a very grave precedent for all nations of the world,” she added. She further emphasised Italy's support for Ukraine's membership of the European Union and the "intensification" of a partnership with NATO. WATCH | Russia acknowledges retreat north of Bakhmut, Wagner boss calls it a 'rout' While heading towards the presidential palace, Zelensky's motorcade passed by small groups of people who held Ukrainian flags. A signboard was held by one person condemning Russia. Zelensky went to Rome onboard an Italian government plane which was escorted by fighter jets over Italian airspace. On Sunday, he will be travelling to Germany. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Zelensky asks Pope Francis to 'join' Kyiv's peace plan as Italy reiterates its support

The United States envoy to South Africa, on Thursday (May 11), accused the country of supplying weapons to Russia amid its invasion of Ukraine despite the country’s neutral stance. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa calls the allegations “disappointing” in a strongly worded statement.&nbsp;

What did the US envoy say?

The US ambassador to South Africa, Reuben Brigety, in a press conference, said that Washington believes Pretoria had sent weapons and ammunition aboard the Russian freighter that docked at a Cape Town naval base in December. “We are confident that weapons were loaded onto that vessel and I would bet my life on the accuracy of that assertion,” said Brigety.&nbsp;

Washington has noted the docking of a Russian cargo ship Lady R in Simon’s Town between December 6 and December 8, 2022, “which we are confident uploaded weapons, ammunition … as it made its way back to Russia,” said the US envoy to South Africa. He added, “The arming of Russia by South Africa...is fundamentally unacceptable.”

He also spoke about how senior US officials have “profound concerns” about South Africa not respecting its professed stance of non-alignment and neutrality over the Russia-Ukraine conflict, adding that this “does not suggest to us the actions of a non-aligned country,” as quoted by Reuters. &nbsp;

“The arming of the Russians is extremely serious, and we do not consider this issue to be resolved,” said Brigety. Notably, South Africa is one of Russia’s most important allies on the continent, however, it has said that it is impartial to the conflict and has abstained from voting on several UN resolutions in connection with the ongoing war.&nbsp; 
 
How has South Africa responded?

Following these allegations, president Ramaphosa’s office hit back and called it “disappointing” that the US envoy had “adopted a counter-productive public posture”.&nbsp;

“The Ambassador’s remarks undermine the spirit of cooperation and partnership that characterised the recent engagements between US government officials and a South African official delegation,” said Ramaphosa’s spokesman Vincent Magwenya, in a statement.&nbsp;

He added, that while there is no evidence provided to support these allegations by the US, “the government has undertaken to institute an independent enquiry to be led by a retired judge.”&nbsp;

Earlier this year, South Africa also held a joint military exercise with Russia and China which the US and other countries in the West expressed concerns about. Additionally, a sanctioned Russian military cargo plane landed at an air force base in the middle of the night to deliver what defence authorities described as “diplomatic mail.” 
 
South Africa summons US envoy 
 
South Africa's Foreign Ministry also summoned the&nbsp;US ambassador on Friday following the allegations and said he apologised for the remarks and Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor has&nbsp;also discussed the issue with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. 
 
After the talks, Brigety took to Twitter and wrote that he was&nbsp;grateful for the opportunity to speak with Pandor and "correct any misimpressions left by my public remarks." The&nbsp;South African Foreign Ministry also issued a statement, later Friday, and said that&nbsp;Brigety "admitted that he crossed a line" and&nbsp;"apologized unreservedly."

South Africa’s vow to probe allegations a ‘welcome step’&nbsp;

During a briefing on Thursday, the US State Department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel without repeating the allegations told reporters that Washington had serious concerns about the docking of the ship at a South African naval port.&nbsp;

US officials had also raised those concerns directly with multiple South African officials, he added. “The deeply concerning piece of this is the docking of a sanctioned Russian vessel at a South African naval port,” said Patel.&nbsp;

Addressing the promise of an investigation into the US envoy’s allegations, the state department deputy spokesperson said, “It certainly would be a welcome step.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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The United States envoy to South Africa, on Thursday (May 11), accused the country of supplying weapons to Russia amid its invasion of Ukraine despite the country’s neutral stance.

The United States envoy to South Africa, on Thursday (May 11), accused the country of supplying weapons to Russia amid its invasion of Ukraine despite the country’s neutral stance. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa calls the allegations “disappointing” in a strongly worded statement. What did the US envoy say? The US ambassador to South Africa, Reuben Brigety, in a press conference, said that Washington believes Pretoria had sent weapons and ammunition aboard the Russian freighter that docked at a Cape Town naval base in December. “We are confident that weapons were loaded onto that vessel and I would bet my life on the accuracy of that assertion,” said Brigety. Washington has noted the docking of a Russian cargo ship Lady R in Simon’s Town between December 6 and December 8, 2022, “which we are confident uploaded weapons, ammunition … as it made its way back to Russia,” said the US envoy to South Africa. He added, “The arming of Russia by South Africa...is fundamentally unacceptable.” He also spoke about how senior US officials have “profound concerns” about South Africa not respecting its professed stance of non-alignment and neutrality over the Russia-Ukraine conflict, adding that this “does not suggest to us the actions of a non-aligned country,” as quoted by Reuters. “The arming of the Russians is extremely serious, and we do not consider this issue to be resolved,” said Brigety. Notably, South Africa is one of Russia’s most important allies on the continent, however, it has said that it is impartial to the conflict and has abstained from voting on several UN resolutions in connection with the ongoing war. How has South Africa responded? Following these allegations, president Ramaphosa’s office hit back and called it “disappointing” that the US envoy had “adopted a counter-productive public posture”. “The Ambassador’s remarks undermine the spirit of cooperation and partnership that characterised the recent engagements between US government officials and a South African official delegation,” said Ramaphosa’s spokesman Vincent Magwenya, in a statement. He added, that while there is no evidence provided to support these allegations by the US, “the government has undertaken to institute an independent enquiry to be led by a retired judge.” Earlier this year, South Africa also held a joint military exercise with Russia and China which the US and other countries in the West expressed concerns about. Additionally, a sanctioned Russian military cargo plane landed at an air force base in the middle of the night to deliver what defence authorities described as “diplomatic mail.” South Africa summons US envoy South Africa's Foreign Ministry also summoned the US ambassador on Friday following the allegations and said he apologised for the remarks and Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor has also discussed the issue with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. After the talks, Brigety took to Twitter and wrote that he was grateful for the opportunity to speak with Pandor and "correct any misimpressions left by my public remarks." The South African Foreign Ministry also issued a statement, later Friday, and said that Brigety "admitted that he crossed a line" and "apologized unreservedly." South Africa’s vow to probe allegations a ‘welcome step’ During a briefing on Thursday, the US State Department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel without repeating the allegations told reporters that Washington had serious concerns about the docking of the ship at a South African naval port. US officials had also raised those concerns directly with multiple South African officials, he added. “The deeply concerning piece of this is the docking of a sanctioned Russian vessel at a South African naval port,” said Patel. Addressing the promise of an investigation into the US envoy’s allegations, the state department deputy spokesperson said, “It certainly would be a welcome step.” (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.

US envoy accuses South Africa of supplying arms to Russia; Pretoria fumes over allegations

Russia, on Friday (May 12) acknowledged that some of its forces had fallen back from the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut following a new Ukrainian offensive. Russia-installed officials in the eastern Ukrainian region of Luhansk said that missiles fired by Kyiv hit two disused factories and several houses in the main city. It also injured six children and a Russian parliamentarian, said Leonid Pasechnik, head of the region.&nbsp;

Russia acknowledges retreat in parts of Bakhmut

Moscow had previously insisted it had repelled an attack along the frontlines and denied Ukraine had made any breakthroughs there, adding on Friday that it had repelled Kyiv’s forces along more than 95 kilometres.&nbsp;

Russian Defence Ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov later said that Ukraine had launched an assault north of Bakhmut with more than 1,000 troops and up to 40 tanks, which if confirmed, would mark the biggest counteroffensive by Kyiv since November.&nbsp;

According to Konashenkov, Russian troops repelled 26 attacks but fell back to regroup in more favourable positions near the Berkhivka reservoir northwest of Bakhmut.&nbsp;

This comes as the head of Russia’s Wagner mercenary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, who has been leading Moscow’s attack in Bakhmut, accused the Russian army of “fleeing” from around the eastern Ukraine city.&nbsp;

Addressing the defence ministry spokesman’s remarks, Prigozhin said, “What Konashenkov described, unfortunately, is called ‘a rout’ and not a regrouping,” as quoted by Reuters. He has also claimed that the north and south flanks, guarded by regular Russian troops, were crumbling; which Moscow has since denied.&nbsp;

Prigozhin also accused Russia’s leadership of downplaying the gravity of the situation and that “the flanks are failing, the front is collapsing”. He added, “For this reason, we must stop lying immediately,” said the Wagner chief in a video statement released on social media.&nbsp;

Ukrainian missiles hit parts of Luhansk: Russia-installed officials

According to the Russian-installed official,&nbsp;Pasechnik, head of the region annexed by Russia last year, six children had been injured. Russian officials in the region also said a member of the State Duma (lower house of Russia’s parliament), Viktor Volodatsky, was also injured.&nbsp; 
 
In a post on Telegram, authorities in Luhansk said two Ukrainian-made “grom” tactical missiles have damaged or destroyed administrative buildings at a packaging plant and a factory producing cleaning materials, in the main city which is about 100 kilometres behind the frontlines.

Ukraine claims parts of Bakhmut

Kyiv, on Friday, said that it had retaken swathes of ground near the frontline Ukrainian city of Bakhmut and has witnessed some of the bloodiest battles amid the ongoing conflict. “In three days of counter-offensive activity, the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the Bakhmut sector have liberated 17.3 sq. km (6.6 sq. miles) of territory,” said Serhiy Cherevatyi, spokesman for the “east” group of Ukrainian forces, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

In his nightly address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russians were “already internally ready for defeat. They have already lost this war in their minds”. So far, both sides have reported massive gains for Ukraine in the six months, however, Kyiv is yet to confirm if the long-planned counteroffensive has officially begun.&nbsp;

In an interview, earlier this week, Zelensky said Kyiv needed more time for equipment to arrive for the offensive while Prigozhin called that deceptive and has previously claimed that the Ukrainian offensive has already begun.&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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Russia, on Friday (May 12) acknowledged that some of its forces had fallen back from the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut following a new Ukrainian offensive. Russia-installed officials in the eastern Ukrainian region of Luhansk said that missiles fired by Kyiv hit two disused factories and several houses in the main city.

Russia, on Friday (May 12) acknowledged that some of its forces had fallen back from the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut following a new Ukrainian offensive. Russia-installed officials in the eastern Ukrainian region of Luhansk said that missiles fired by Kyiv hit two disused factories and several houses in the main city. It also injured six children and a Russian parliamentarian, said Leonid Pasechnik, head of the region. Russia acknowledges retreat in parts of Bakhmut Moscow had previously insisted it had repelled an attack along the frontlines and denied Ukraine had made any breakthroughs there, adding on Friday that it had repelled Kyiv’s forces along more than 95 kilometres. Russian Defence Ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov later said that Ukraine had launched an assault north of Bakhmut with more than 1,000 troops and up to 40 tanks, which if confirmed, would mark the biggest counteroffensive by Kyiv since November. According to Konashenkov, Russian troops repelled 26 attacks but fell back to regroup in more favourable positions near the Berkhivka reservoir northwest of Bakhmut. This comes as the head of Russia’s Wagner mercenary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, who has been leading Moscow’s attack in Bakhmut, accused the Russian army of “fleeing” from around the eastern Ukraine city. Addressing the defence ministry spokesman’s remarks, Prigozhin said, “What Konashenkov described, unfortunately, is called ‘a rout’ and not a regrouping,” as quoted by Reuters. He has also claimed that the north and south flanks, guarded by regular Russian troops, were crumbling; which Moscow has since denied. Prigozhin also accused Russia’s leadership of downplaying the gravity of the situation and that “the flanks are failing, the front is collapsing”. He added, “For this reason, we must stop lying immediately,” said the Wagner chief in a video statement released on social media. Ukrainian missiles hit parts of Luhansk: Russia-installed officials According to the Russian-installed official, Pasechnik, head of the region annexed by Russia last year, six children had been injured. Russian officials in the region also said a member of the State Duma (lower house of Russia’s parliament), Viktor Volodatsky, was also injured. In a post on Telegram, authorities in Luhansk said two Ukrainian-made “grom” tactical missiles have damaged or destroyed administrative buildings at a packaging plant and a factory producing cleaning materials, in the main city which is about 100 kilometres behind the frontlines. Ukraine claims parts of Bakhmut Kyiv, on Friday, said that it had retaken swathes of ground near the frontline Ukrainian city of Bakhmut and has witnessed some of the bloodiest battles amid the ongoing conflict. “In three days of counter-offensive activity, the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the Bakhmut sector have liberated 17.3 sq. km (6.6 sq. miles) of territory,” said Serhiy Cherevatyi, spokesman for the “east” group of Ukrainian forces, as quoted by Reuters. In his nightly address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russians were “already internally ready for defeat. They have already lost this war in their minds”. So far, both sides have reported massive gains for Ukraine in the six months, however, Kyiv is yet to confirm if the long-planned counteroffensive has officially begun. In an interview, earlier this week, Zelensky said Kyiv needed more time for equipment to arrive for the offensive while Prigozhin called that deceptive and has previously claimed that the Ukrainian offensive has already begun. (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.

Several reported injured after Ukrainian missiles strike in Luhansk; Russia admits retreat north of Bakhmut

Armenia, on Friday (May 12), said Azerbaijani troops killed one Armenian soldier in border clashes. This comes a day after Azerbaijan said one of its soldiers was killed as new clashes have erupted between the two countries along the border for a second straight day. These clashes have threatened to derail the European Union-led peace talks which are scheduled to take place over the weekend.&nbsp;

Recent clashes

According to reports, troops from Azerbaijan and Armenia exchanged fire with weapons including mortars and drones on their joint border, on Friday, after the clashes a day prior which were the latest in a series of border flare-ups. Both sides said they were acting in self-defence and blamed the other for shooting first.&nbsp;

Addressing the latest skirmish, Armenia’s Defence Ministry said that its forces came under fire with mortars and small arms near the village of Sotk, near the border. It added drones were also deployed. “In the wake of enemy fire, the Armenian side has one killed in action and one wounded,” said the ministry, adding that “the intensity of fighting has decreased”.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Azerbaijan’s Defence Ministry said, “Armenian armed forces opened fire from trench mortars on Azerbaijani positions” at the border. It also reported that it managed to cut short a drone attack by Armenia on its positions in the Kalbajar district.&nbsp;

Peace talks in Brussels&nbsp;

These clashes come ahead of a meeting set to take place in Brussels, on Sunday, between Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azeri President Ilham Aliyev which will be led by European Council President Charles Michel.&nbsp;

According to the EU, rival leaders have also agreed to jointly meet the leaders of France and Germany on the sidelines of a European summit in Moldova in June. The EU-led effort follows Washington’s as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had invited Azerbaijani and Armenian foreign ministers to the United States for talks, earlier this month.&nbsp;

Rise in tensions

The tensions between the two former Soviet states have escalated after Azerbaijan, last month, set up a checkpoint on the only land route between Armenia and the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh enclave.&nbsp;

The move has since sparked outrage from its arch-rival Yerevan which has called it a “gross violation” of the 2020 ceasefire agreement. Azerbaijan said that it set up the checkpoint in the disputed region after claims of border shootings by both Azeri and Armenian forces.&nbsp;

The two countries have fought two wars in the last three decades or so over the disputed territory which is recognised as part of Azerbaijan but populated mainly by ethnic Armenians. The conflict in 2020 ended after a Russia-brokered ceasefire. As a part of that agreement, Azerbaijan is required to guarantee safe passage on the Lachin corridor which is also patrolled by Moscow’s peacekeepers.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Armenia, on Friday (May 12), said Azerbaijani troops killed one Armenian soldier in border clashes. This comes a day after Azerbaijan said one of its soldiers was killed as new clashes have erupted between the two countries along the border for a second straight day.

Armenia, on Friday (May 12), said Azerbaijani troops killed one Armenian soldier in border clashes. This comes a day after Azerbaijan said one of its soldiers was killed as new clashes have erupted between the two countries along the border for a second straight day. These clashes have threatened to derail the European Union-led peace talks which are scheduled to take place over the weekend. Recent clashes According to reports, troops from Azerbaijan and Armenia exchanged fire with weapons including mortars and drones on their joint border, on Friday, after the clashes a day prior which were the latest in a series of border flare-ups. Both sides said they were acting in self-defence and blamed the other for shooting first. Addressing the latest skirmish, Armenia’s Defence Ministry said that its forces came under fire with mortars and small arms near the village of Sotk, near the border. It added drones were also deployed. “In the wake of enemy fire, the Armenian side has one killed in action and one wounded,” said the ministry, adding that “the intensity of fighting has decreased”. Meanwhile, Azerbaijan’s Defence Ministry said, “Armenian armed forces opened fire from trench mortars on Azerbaijani positions” at the border. It also reported that it managed to cut short a drone attack by Armenia on its positions in the Kalbajar district. Peace talks in Brussels These clashes come ahead of a meeting set to take place in Brussels, on Sunday, between Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azeri President Ilham Aliyev which will be led by European Council President Charles Michel. According to the EU, rival leaders have also agreed to jointly meet the leaders of France and Germany on the sidelines of a European summit in Moldova in June. The EU-led effort follows Washington’s as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had invited Azerbaijani and Armenian foreign ministers to the United States for talks, earlier this month. Rise in tensions The tensions between the two former Soviet states have escalated after Azerbaijan, last month, set up a checkpoint on the only land route between Armenia and the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh enclave. The move has since sparked outrage from its arch-rival Yerevan which has called it a “gross violation” of the 2020 ceasefire agreement. Azerbaijan said that it set up the checkpoint in the disputed region after claims of border shootings by both Azeri and Armenian forces. The two countries have fought two wars in the last three decades or so over the disputed territory which is recognised as part of Azerbaijan but populated mainly by ethnic Armenians. The conflict in 2020 ended after a Russia-brokered ceasefire. As a part of that agreement, Azerbaijan is required to guarantee safe passage on the Lachin corridor which is also patrolled by Moscow’s peacekeepers. (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.

At least two soldiers killed in clashes on Armenia-Azerbaijan border ahead of peace talks

A 60-year-old Russian woman was given a two-year suspended sentence by a court on Thursday (May 11) for leaving a note at the grave of Russian President Vladimir Putin's parents saying that they had raised "a freak and a murderer", reported multiple news outlets.

The prosecutors had sought three-year suspended sentence for Irina Tsybaneva.

She was charged with desecrating the grave in St Petersburg. The note referred Putin's mother and father as "the parents of a maniac".&nbsp;

"Death to Putin, you raised a freak and a murderer," the note said, urging the deceased parents to "take him with you".

According to SOTA news website, Tsybaneva will not appeal the verdict. Tsybaneva said that she wrote the note after she watched news about the war in Ukraine and "understood that everything is very scary, everything is very sad, and there are many dead", according to another news outlet, Mediazona.

Watch | China to send special Envoy to Ukraine, Russia; to intensify Ukraine 'peace effort'

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Russia had invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The Russian government has been hawkish about any opinion in the country against the war. The crackdown on dissent has been unseen since the Soviet era.

In a different case, a Russian government agency added Artur Smolyaninov to a list of "extremists and terrorists". A former consultant who advised the Ukrainian president's office was added to this list again.

In another case, a Russian military court sentenced a history teacher&nbsp;Nikita Tushkanov&nbsp;from Komi to five and a half&nbsp;years in prison. The sentence was handed for comments he made about explosion of the Kerch bridge which took place last year. Kerch bridge links Ukraine's Russia-annexed Crimean peninsula to mainland Russia.

Alexei Navalny, one of the most prominent critics of Vladimir Putin, is already in jail. He recently reported on Twitter that he had again been kept in solitary confinement punishment cell. He was released from one just days ago.

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A 60-year-old Russian woman was given a two-year suspended sentence by a court on Thursday (May 11) for leaving a note at the grave of Russian President Vladimir Putin's parents saying that they had raised "a freak and a murderer", reported multiple news outlets.

A 60-year-old Russian woman was given a two-year suspended sentence by a court on Thursday (May 11) for leaving a note at the grave of Russian President Vladimir Putin's parents saying that they had raised "a freak and a murderer", reported multiple news outlets. The prosecutors had sought three-year suspended sentence for Irina Tsybaneva. She was charged with desecrating the grave in St Petersburg. The note referred Putin's mother and father as "the parents of a maniac". "Death to Putin, you raised a freak and a murderer," the note said, urging the deceased parents to "take him with you". According to SOTA news website, Tsybaneva will not appeal the verdict. Tsybaneva said that she wrote the note after she watched news about the war in Ukraine and "understood that everything is very scary, everything is very sad, and there are many dead", according to another news outlet, Mediazona. Watch | China to send special Envoy to Ukraine, Russia; to intensify Ukraine 'peace effort' × Russia had invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The Russian government has been hawkish about any opinion in the country against the war. The crackdown on dissent has been unseen since the Soviet era. In a different case, a Russian government agency added Artur Smolyaninov to a list of "extremists and terrorists". A former consultant who advised the Ukrainian president's office was added to this list again. In another case, a Russian military court sentenced a history teacher Nikita Tushkanov from Komi to five and a half years in prison. The sentence was handed for comments he made about explosion of the Kerch bridge which took place last year. Kerch bridge links Ukraine's Russia-annexed Crimean peninsula to mainland Russia. Alexei Navalny, one of the most prominent critics of Vladimir Putin, is already in jail. He recently reported on Twitter that he had again been kept in solitary confinement punishment cell. He was released from one just days ago. 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 ×

You raised a freak and murderer: Russian woman sentenced for note left at grave of Putin's parents

South Africa's foreign ministry released a statement on Friday noting that US ambassador to South Africa, Reuben Brigety had 'apologised' unreservedly and admitted to having crossed a line after he said a Russian ship had picked up weapons from the country last year.

South Africa's foreign ministry released a statement on Friday noting that US ambassador to South Africa, Reuben Brigety had 'apologised' unreservedly and admitted to having crossed a line after he said a Russian ship had picked up weapons from the country last year. Brigety took to Twitter to state he had spoken with the foreign minister Naledi Pandor and corrected misimpressions. "I was grateful for the opportunity to speak with Foreign Minister Pandor this evening and correct any misimpressions left by my public remarks. In our conversation, I reaffirmed the strong partnership between our two countries & the important agenda our Presidents have given us," he tweeted. I was grateful for the opportunity to speak with Foreign Minister Pandor this evening and correct any misimpressions left by my public remarks. In our conversation, I re-affirmed the strong partnership between our two countries & the important agenda our Presidents have given us. — Ambassador Reuben Brigety (@USAmbRSA) May 12, 2023 × South Africa’s head of public diplomacy, Clayson Monyela also confirmed the apology but asked Brigety to make a much docile public apology. "He [Brigety] committed to making the apology public as he has done. I guess his choice of language is the issue. @USAmbRSA you may want to clarify. We are happy with the apology you offered in the meeting but the comments here suggest that more was expected from you. I'll leave that to you." He committed to making the apology public as he has done. I guess his choice of language is the issue. @USAmbRSA you may want to clarify. We are happy with the apology you offered in the meeting but the comments here suggest that more was expected from you. I'll leave that to… https://t.co/v8lNhOedZU — Clayson Monyela (@ClaysonMonyela) May 12, 2023 × WATCH | US ambassador accuse South Africa of supplying arms to Russia × What were the concrete allegations made by the US? On Thursday, Brigety accused the rainbow nation of supplying weapons to Russia amid its invasion of Ukraine despite the country’s neutral stance. Brigety claimed that Pretoria had sent weapons and ammunition aboard the Russian cargo ship Lady R docked at a Cape Town naval base in December last year. “We are confident that weapons were loaded onto that vessel and I would bet my life on the accuracy of that assertion,” said Brigety. “The arming of Russia by South Africa...is fundamentally unacceptable.” He also spoke about how senior US officials have “profound concerns” about South Africa not respecting its professed stance of non-alignment and neutrality over the Russia-Ukraine conflict, adding that this “does not suggest to us the actions of a non-aligned country,” as quoted by Reuters. ALSO READ | US envoy accuses South Africa of supplying arms to Russia; Pretoria fumes over allegations As soon as Brigety made the statement, he invited criticism from the South African government. President Cyril Ramaphosa released a strongly worded statement and called the allegations “disappointing”. “The Ambassador’s remarks undermine the spirit of cooperation and partnership that characterised the recent engagements between US government officials and a South African official delegation,” said Ramaphosa’s spokesman Vincent Magwenya, in a statement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US envoy apologises after alleging South Africa supplied arms to Russia

A special envoy is being sent by China to Russia and Ukraine next week with an aim to finalise a political settlement of the Ukrainian crisis, stated its foreign ministry on Friday.

China’s special representative for Eurasian affairs and former ambassador to Moscow, Li Hui, will also visit France, Germany and Poland, said the foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin.&nbsp;

China stated that the government remains neutral in the Russia-Ukraine war but has declared that it shares a ”no limits” relationship with Moscow. China also blames&nbsp;NATO and the United States for provoking the conflict.&nbsp;

A peace plan has been put forward by Beijing for Ukraine that has been largely dismissed by the supporters of the country who state that a resolution can only be reached when Russia ceases its attacks and its troops pull&nbsp;back from the Ukrainian territory.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-says-counteroffensive-yet-to-start-despite-kyivs-gains-at-frontline-591399">Zelensky says counteroffensive yet to start despite Kyiv's gains at frontline</a>

Last month, Chinese leader Xi Jinping spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky over the phone, establishing the stage for the diplomatic push.

“The visit of the Chinese representative to relevant countries expresses China’s commitment to promoting peace and negotiations,” Wang stated at a daily briefing on Friday.

China wishes to prevent an “escalation of the situation,” Wang added. The visit of Li will start next week but the officials have not released details of his&nbsp;schedule.

Previously, Beijing has avoided its involvement in conflicts with other countries but it appears the South Asian country is trying to project itself as a global diplomatic force after it worked as a mediator in talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia in March and arranged talks between the two nations which culminated in the restoration of diplomatic relations after a seven-year break.&nbsp;

China shares friendly ties with Moscow and the nation is also the biggest buyer of Russian gas and oil after the United States and its allies ended most purchases.

China, which considers Russia as a diplomatic partner in opposing the domination of the United States over global affairs, has not criticised Moscow's invasion of Ukraine and has exploited its status as the permanent UN Security Council member to deflect diplomatic attacks made on Russia.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Britain to supply Ukraine with long range cruise missiles

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Wang further confirmed that Wang Yi, the top diplomat of the ruling Communist Party, held talks with US national security adviser Jake Sullivan on Wednesday and Thursday in Vienna, Austria. Wang stated that the two nations had “candid, in-depth, substantive, and constructive discussions” on improving and stabilising bilateral relations.

The relations between China and the United States have hit a historical low, and nosedived further in February after a suspected Chinese spy balloon was shot down by the US when it was spotted flying across the United States and Canada. Because of the incident, &nbsp;US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to Beijing was postponed and has till now not been rescheduled.

(With inputs from agencies)

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<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

A special envoy is being sent by China to Russia and Ukraine next week with an aim to finalise a political settlement of the Ukrainian crisis, stated its foreign ministry on Friday.

A special envoy is being sent by China to Russia and Ukraine next week with an aim to finalise a political settlement of the Ukrainian crisis, stated its foreign ministry on Friday. China’s special representative for Eurasian affairs and former ambassador to Moscow, Li Hui, will also visit France, Germany and Poland, said the foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin. China stated that the government remains neutral in the Russia-Ukraine war but has declared that it shares a ”no limits” relationship with Moscow. China also blames NATO and the United States for provoking the conflict. A peace plan has been put forward by Beijing for Ukraine that has been largely dismissed by the supporters of the country who state that a resolution can only be reached when Russia ceases its attacks and its troops pull back from the Ukrainian territory. ALSO READ | Zelensky says counteroffensive yet to start despite Kyiv's gains at frontline Last month, Chinese leader Xi Jinping spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky over the phone, establishing the stage for the diplomatic push. “The visit of the Chinese representative to relevant countries expresses China’s commitment to promoting peace and negotiations,” Wang stated at a daily briefing on Friday. China wishes to prevent an “escalation of the situation,” Wang added. The visit of Li will start next week but the officials have not released details of his schedule. Previously, Beijing has avoided its involvement in conflicts with other countries but it appears the South Asian country is trying to project itself as a global diplomatic force after it worked as a mediator in talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia in March and arranged talks between the two nations which culminated in the restoration of diplomatic relations after a seven-year break. China shares friendly ties with Moscow and the nation is also the biggest buyer of Russian gas and oil after the United States and its allies ended most purchases. China, which considers Russia as a diplomatic partner in opposing the domination of the United States over global affairs, has not criticised Moscow's invasion of Ukraine and has exploited its status as the permanent UN Security Council member to deflect diplomatic attacks made on Russia. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Britain to supply Ukraine with long range cruise missiles Wang further confirmed that Wang Yi, the top diplomat of the ruling Communist Party, held talks with US national security adviser Jake Sullivan on Wednesday and Thursday in Vienna, Austria. Wang stated that the two nations had “candid, in-depth, substantive, and constructive discussions” on improving and stabilising bilateral relations. The relations between China and the United States have hit a historical low, and nosedived further in February after a suspected Chinese spy balloon was shot down by the US when it was spotted flying across the United States and Canada. Because of the incident, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to Beijing was postponed and has till now not been rescheduled. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China to send special envoy to Russia, Ukraine, other nations to broker peace talks

The Kremlin said on Wednesday (May 10) that Russia was lifting a flight ban with Georgia and President Putin was introducing a visa-free regime. Russia has fought a brief war with Georgia in 2008. Decrees were released on Wednesday declaring the lifting of the flight ban and a 90-day visa-free regime for Georgian citizens from May 15.

Russia banned air travel with Georgia in 2019 after anti-Moscow rallies in the country.

Russia and Georgia share a complicated history. Mikheil Saakashvili, former president of Georgia, is seen as one of Moscow's top enemies. He is now in jail.

In 2008, after years of tensions and Saakashvili's efforts to forge closer ties with the West, Moscow fought a brief but bloody war with Georgia.

However, current authorities in Georgia have been accused by the opposition of forming close ties with the Kremlin in recent years.

Ruling party in Georgia insists that it is committed to Georgia's membership of the European Union (EU) and North Atlantic Treaty Organistaion (NATO). Georgia's membership in these two blocs has been enshrined in its constitution and opinion polls show that 80 per cent of the population&nbsp;supports the country being in these two blocs.

Georgia's pro-EU president immediately slammed Moscow's latest decision.

"Another Russian provocation!" the country's figurehead president, Salome Zourabichvili, said on Twitter.&nbsp;

"Resuming direct flights and lifting (the) visa ban with Georgia is unacceptable as long as Russia continues its aggression on Ukraine and occupies our territory!"

The Kremlin's decrees on Georgia come as Moscow's offensive in Ukraine stretches into its second year.

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The Kremlin said on Wednesday (May 10) that Russia was lifting a flight ban with Georgia and President Putin was introducing a visa-free regime. Russia has fought a brief war with Georgia in 2008.

The Kremlin said on Wednesday (May 10) that Russia was lifting a flight ban with Georgia and President Putin was introducing a visa-free regime. Russia has fought a brief war with Georgia in 2008. Decrees were released on Wednesday declaring the lifting of the flight ban and a 90-day visa-free regime for Georgian citizens from May 15. Russia banned air travel with Georgia in 2019 after anti-Moscow rallies in the country. Russia and Georgia share a complicated history. Mikheil Saakashvili, former president of Georgia, is seen as one of Moscow's top enemies. He is now in jail. In 2008, after years of tensions and Saakashvili's efforts to forge closer ties with the West, Moscow fought a brief but bloody war with Georgia. However, current authorities in Georgia have been accused by the opposition of forming close ties with the Kremlin in recent years. Ruling party in Georgia insists that it is committed to Georgia's membership of the European Union (EU) and North Atlantic Treaty Organistaion (NATO). Georgia's membership in these two blocs has been enshrined in its constitution and opinion polls show that 80 per cent of the population supports the country being in these two blocs. Georgia's pro-EU president immediately slammed Moscow's latest decision. "Another Russian provocation!" the country's figurehead president, Salome Zourabichvili, said on Twitter. "Resuming direct flights and lifting (the) visa ban with Georgia is unacceptable as long as Russia continues its aggression on Ukraine and occupies our territory!" The Kremlin's decrees on Georgia come as Moscow's offensive in Ukraine stretches into its second year. 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 lifts flight ban with Georgia, introduces visa-free regime

Russians celebrated World War II Victory Day as Moscow troops fight on in Ukraine, with President Vladimir Putin's call for "victory" in the ongoing war. Victory Day is marked to commemorate the sacrifices made by the Soviet Union during the "Great Patriotic War"&nbsp;of 1941-45. Records have revealed that around 27 million citizens died.&nbsp;

During the speech, Putin slammed the West, saying that they have "forgotten who defeated the monstrous global evil and the Western elites talk about their exclusivity, playoff people and provoke bloody conflicts, sow Russophobia and aggressive nationalism".&nbsp;

The parade and the speech were aimed at the West, but something else grabbed the headlines globally — a 'lonely' tank. The pared-down parade showcased military hardware, but there was no aviation and a single T-34 tank took part. Some users on social media called it a "lonely" tank.&nbsp;

Army personnel were in ceremonial uniforms and marched through Red Square to the soundtrack of a military brass band. After Putin's speech, a band struck up and the cannon fired a salute. Armoured vehicles and nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles followed later.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> Not a single tank passed through the parade in Moscow, except for the museum T-34, and there were no aircraft either. 
 
What happened? 😉 <a href="https://t.co/NeEiTGSLQC">pic.twitter.com/NeEiTGSLQC</a>
— Getty 🇺🇦 🔜 (@region776) <a href="https://twitter.com/region776/status/1655845622342369280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://t.co/9FLJGxgGgb">https://t.co/9FLJGxgGgb</a> That is one lonely old tank at Russia's Victory Day. <a href="https://t.co/xvcRIQF8oQ">pic.twitter.com/xvcRIQF8oQ</a>
— mrbrown (@mrbrown) <a href="https://twitter.com/mrbrown/status/1655920502672859137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In one year, Russia has approximately lost more than 1,937 tanks in the war. During the parade, a lonely T-34 showed up. 
 
From this to this.... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ukraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RussiaUkraineWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RussiaUkraineWar</a> <a href="https://t.co/e0emLHU1Ix">pic.twitter.com/e0emLHU1Ix</a>
— Bassel Doueik (@bassel_doueik) <a href="https://twitter.com/bassel_doueik/status/1655931731915198465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The West, which claims that Russia is running out of arms and ammunition, mocked Putin for the scaled-back parade, but some experts stated that Russia can't spare tanks and planes for their parade amid the invasion, which started last year on February 24.&nbsp;

Russia has often shown confidence over the victory, and Putin also said that the future of the country "rests on" soldiers fighting in Ukraine.&nbsp;

He further said that the world is at a "turning point", and a "war" was unleashed on Russia. He added: "Today civilisation is again at a decisive turning point. A war has been unleashed against our motherland." He called for Russia to be victorious: "For Russia, for our armed forces, for victory! Hurrah!"&nbsp;

He said, "I am convinced that the experience of solidarity and partnership during the years of struggle against a common threat is a support right now when the world is moving towards multipolarity."&nbsp;

He added that the "West has forgotten who defeated the monstrous global evil and the Western elites talk about their exclusivity, playoff people and provoke bloody conflicts, sow Russophobia and aggressive nationalism".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Russians celebrated World War II Victory Day as Moscow troops fight on in Ukraine, with President Vladimir Putin's call for "victory" in the ongoing war. Victory Day is marked to commemorate the sacrifices made by the Soviet Union during the "Great Patriotic War" of 1941-45.

Russians celebrated World War II Victory Day as Moscow troops fight on in Ukraine, with President Vladimir Putin's call for "victory" in the ongoing war. Victory Day is marked to commemorate the sacrifices made by the Soviet Union during the "Great Patriotic War" of 1941-45. Records have revealed that around 27 million citizens died. During the speech, Putin slammed the West, saying that they have "forgotten who defeated the monstrous global evil and the Western elites talk about their exclusivity, playoff people and provoke bloody conflicts, sow Russophobia and aggressive nationalism". The parade and the speech were aimed at the West, but something else grabbed the headlines globally — a 'lonely' tank. The pared-down parade showcased military hardware, but there was no aviation and a single T-34 tank took part. Some users on social media called it a "lonely" tank. Army personnel were in ceremonial uniforms and marched through Red Square to the soundtrack of a military brass band. After Putin's speech, a band struck up and the cannon fired a salute. Armoured vehicles and nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles followed later. #Russia Not a single tank passed through the parade in Moscow, except for the museum T-34, and there were no aircraft either. What happened? 😉 pic.twitter.com/NeEiTGSLQC — Getty 🇺🇦 🔜 (@region776) May 9, 2023 × https://t.co/9FLJGxgGgb That is one lonely old tank at Russia's Victory Day. pic.twitter.com/xvcRIQF8oQ — mrbrown (@mrbrown) May 9, 2023 × In one year, Russia has approximately lost more than 1,937 tanks in the war. During the parade, a lonely T-34 showed up. From this to this.... #Russia #ukraine #RussiaUkraineWar pic.twitter.com/e0emLHU1Ix — Bassel Doueik (@bassel_doueik) May 9, 2023 × The West, which claims that Russia is running out of arms and ammunition, mocked Putin for the scaled-back parade, but some experts stated that Russia can't spare tanks and planes for their parade amid the invasion, which started last year on February 24. Russia has often shown confidence over the victory, and Putin also said that the future of the country "rests on" soldiers fighting in Ukraine. He further said that the world is at a "turning point", and a "war" was unleashed on Russia. He added: "Today civilisation is again at a decisive turning point. A war has been unleashed against our motherland." He called for Russia to be victorious: "For Russia, for our armed forces, for victory! Hurrah!" He said, "I am convinced that the experience of solidarity and partnership during the years of struggle against a common threat is a support right now when the world is moving towards multipolarity." He added that the "West has forgotten who defeated the monstrous global evil and the Western elites talk about their exclusivity, playoff people and provoke bloody conflicts, sow Russophobia and aggressive nationalism". (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.

Watch: Russia's 'lonely' T-34 tank during Victory Day parade mocked

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