Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said that Moscow values its relationship with Delhi highly and will continue to develop ties.

In response to a WION question during his press conference, Lavrov said, "We value our relationship highly. It is no coincidence that it is a special privilege strategic partnership, and we are going to keep developing and advancing that partnership."

Russian President Putin visited India last month for the annual India-Russia summit. That month also saw the first ever meeting of India's and Russia's defence and foreign ministers, which will be rotated between the two countries.

The Russian foreign minister said President Putin had "very useful negotiations" in Delhi and that both "the President and the Prime Minister (Modi) managed to spend several hours talking and that was a very useful exchange." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-will-take-measures-to-eliminate-threats-if-us-ignores-security-proposals-minister-lavrov-441473">Also read | Russia will take measures to eliminate threats if US ignores security proposals: Minister Lavrov</a> 
 
The main pillars of the two countries' partnership are defence and space.The BrahMos Missile System, as well as the licenced production in India of SU-30 aircraft and T-90 tanks, are examples of such flagship cooperation in the defence sector.

In space cooperation, Russia&nbsp;trained four Indian cosmonauts who will be part of the Gaganyaan mission, India's first manned space mission.

In response to the RIC summit, or Russia, India, and China summit, FM Lavrov referred to the RIC grouping as an&nbsp;"important structure", pointing out that foreign ministers have met "some 20 times since the creation of the RIC." He highlighted that there are "sectoral meetings between ministers, their deputies, and experts on trade, economic, and humanitarian cooperation."

Last year, the foreign ministers of RIC countries met virtually.&nbsp;Leaders of the RIC countries have met on the sidelines of the G20 summit. The last leaders' level meeting at the level of PM Modi, President Xi, and Putin took place on the sidelines of the Osaka G20 summit. But Chinese aggressive action on the line of actual control with India might make the holding of such meetings difficult.

The Russian Foreign minister said, "We see that our Indian and Chinese friends are interested in keeping this format going forward and in developing this format going forward," pointing out that, "I know India and China have a direct dialogue on many issues, including security issues." I know there is a declaration of strategic partnership between India and China, but if "RIC may be useful for strengthening trust and confidence building, this is something we are going to support."

Russian Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov is hopeful for the summit and was the first to talk about the meeting happening this year. For Russia, both India and China have been close allies.&nbsp;

As Lavrov said, "apart from the political significance of this RIC format, the 3 countries are part of a single geographical space, RIC format also deals with economic formats of cooperation which are promising." Russia, China, India are part of the SCO, BRICS groupings.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said that Moscow values its relationship with Delhi highly and will continue to develop ties. In response to a WION question during his press conference, Lavrov said, "We value our relationship highly.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said that Moscow values its relationship with Delhi highly and will continue to develop ties. In response to a WION question during his press conference, Lavrov said, "We value our relationship highly. It is no coincidence that it is a special privilege strategic partnership, and we are going to keep developing and advancing that partnership." Russian President Putin visited India last month for the annual India-Russia summit. That month also saw the first ever meeting of India's and Russia's defence and foreign ministers, which will be rotated between the two countries. The Russian foreign minister said President Putin had "very useful negotiations" in Delhi and that both "the President and the Prime Minister (Modi) managed to spend several hours talking and that was a very useful exchange." Also read | Russia will take measures to eliminate threats if US ignores security proposals: Minister Lavrov The main pillars of the two countries' partnership are defence and space.The BrahMos Missile System, as well as the licenced production in India of SU-30 aircraft and T-90 tanks, are examples of such flagship cooperation in the defence sector. In space cooperation, Russia trained four Indian cosmonauts who will be part of the Gaganyaan mission, India's first manned space mission. In response to the RIC summit, or Russia, India, and China summit, FM Lavrov referred to the RIC grouping as an "important structure", pointing out that foreign ministers have met "some 20 times since the creation of the RIC." He highlighted that there are "sectoral meetings between ministers, their deputies, and experts on trade, economic, and humanitarian cooperation." Last year, the foreign ministers of RIC countries met virtually. Leaders of the RIC countries have met on the sidelines of the G20 summit. The last leaders' level meeting at the level of PM Modi, President Xi, and Putin took place on the sidelines of the Osaka G20 summit. But Chinese aggressive action on the line of actual control with India might make the holding of such meetings difficult. The Russian Foreign minister said, "We see that our Indian and Chinese friends are interested in keeping this format going forward and in developing this format going forward," pointing out that, "I know India and China have a direct dialogue on many issues, including security issues." I know there is a declaration of strategic partnership between India and China, but if "RIC may be useful for strengthening trust and confidence building, this is something we are going to support." Russian Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov is hopeful for the summit and was the first to talk about the meeting happening this year. For Russia, both India and China have been close allies. As Lavrov said, "apart from the political significance of this RIC format, the 3 countries are part of a single geographical space, RIC format also deals with economic formats of cooperation which are promising." Russia, China, India are part of the SCO, BRICS groupings.

We value our relationship with India highly: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to WION

Ukraine on Friday was targeted by a “massive cyber attack” with at least 10 government websites, including the ministry of foreign affairs and education ministry, which ceased functioning.

Though it was unknown from where the cyber attack was launched, officials in the Ukraine government pointed out a “long record” of Russian cyber assaults against Kyiv.

"It's too early to draw conclusions, but there is a long record of Russian (cyber) assaults against Ukraine in the past," the foreign ministry spokesman told Reuters.

The incident follows almost a week after the tense security talks between Moscow and the US and NATO ended in stalemate.

Among the targets of the cyber attack were websites of the ministerial cabinet, the foreign, education, agriculture, emergency, energy, veterans affairs and environment ministries.

Apart from that the websites of the state treasury and the Diia electronic public services platform, where vaccination certificates and electronic passports are stored were also out of service.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-ukraine-tensions-russia-unveils-white-swan-strategic-bomber-444279">Amid Ukraine tensions, Russia unveils ‘White Swan’ strategic bomber</a>

According to reports, suspected Russian hackers left a message on the foreign ministry website.

"Ukrainian! All your personal data was uploaded to the public network. All data on the computer is destroyed, it is impossible to restore it," said a message visible on the hacked government websites, written in Ukrainian, Russian and Polish.

"All information about you has become public, be afraid and expect the worst. This is for your past, present and future."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-enlists-meteorologists-to-predict-russias-ukraine-invasion-plan-report-444048">Biden enlists meteorologists to predict Russia's Ukraine invasion plan: Report</a>

The message reproduced the Ukrainian flag and map crossed out. It mentioned the Ukrainian insurgent army, or UPA, which fought against the Soviet Union during the second world war. There was also a reference to “historical land”.

Russia had warned of possible “catastrophic consequences” if there was no agreement on the proposed security pact, but Kremlin asserted that it had not given up on diplomacy.

Relations between Ukraine and Russia collapsed after Moscow's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the outbreak of war between Kyiv's forces and Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine that same year.

United States on Thursday said Russia might be trying to create a pretext to launch a new military assault on Ukraine, comparing the situation to the circumstances in 2014.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine on Friday was targeted by a “massive cyber attack” with at least 10 government websites, including the ministry of foreign affairs and education ministry, which ceased functioning.

Ukraine on Friday was targeted by a “massive cyber attack” with at least 10 government websites, including the ministry of foreign affairs and education ministry, which ceased functioning. Though it was unknown from where the cyber attack was launched, officials in the Ukraine government pointed out a “long record” of Russian cyber assaults against Kyiv. "It's too early to draw conclusions, but there is a long record of Russian (cyber) assaults against Ukraine in the past," the foreign ministry spokesman told Reuters. The incident follows almost a week after the tense security talks between Moscow and the US and NATO ended in stalemate. Among the targets of the cyber attack were websites of the ministerial cabinet, the foreign, education, agriculture, emergency, energy, veterans affairs and environment ministries. Apart from that the websites of the state treasury and the Diia electronic public services platform, where vaccination certificates and electronic passports are stored were also out of service. Also read | Amid Ukraine tensions, Russia unveils ‘White Swan’ strategic bomber According to reports, suspected Russian hackers left a message on the foreign ministry website. "Ukrainian! All your personal data was uploaded to the public network. All data on the computer is destroyed, it is impossible to restore it," said a message visible on the hacked government websites, written in Ukrainian, Russian and Polish. "All information about you has become public, be afraid and expect the worst. This is for your past, present and future." Also read | Biden enlists meteorologists to predict Russia's Ukraine invasion plan: Report The message reproduced the Ukrainian flag and map crossed out. It mentioned the Ukrainian insurgent army, or UPA, which fought against the Soviet Union during the second world war. There was also a reference to “historical land”. Russia had warned of possible “catastrophic consequences” if there was no agreement on the proposed security pact, but Kremlin asserted that it had not given up on diplomacy. Relations between Ukraine and Russia collapsed after Moscow's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the outbreak of war between Kyiv's forces and Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine that same year. United States on Thursday said Russia might be trying to create a pretext to launch a new military assault on Ukraine, comparing the situation to the circumstances in 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian govt websites fall prey to ‘massive cyber attack’, Russian hand suspected

Here are some of the top stories to start your day: The Biden administration on Wednesday imposed first sanctions on North Koreans linked to ballistic missile programs.

Here are some of the top stories to start your day: The Biden administration on Wednesday imposed first sanctions on North Koreans linked to ballistic missile programs. Also read a report on South China Sea situation as amid tensions, the US State Department in a document hit out against the "unlawful" claims by President Xi Jinping's government. Click on headlines to read the full report: Biden administration imposes first sanctions on North Koreans over missile tests The Biden administration on Wednesday (January 12) imposed first sanctions on North Koreans linked to ballistic missile program after Pyongyang said it conducted the launch of a hypersonic missile. Amid Ukraine tensions, Russia unveils ‘White Swan’ strategic bomber Amid tensions with Ukraine at the border, Russia's defence forces unveiled the new Tupolev Tu-160M strategic missile bomber. The bomber also known as ‘White Swan’ carried out its debut flight from the aerodrome of the Kazan Aviation Enterprise, reports said. What's next for Britain's Prince Andrew as US court denies plea to dismiss sex assault case? A United States judge on Wednesday denied a plea by Britain's Prince Andrew to dismiss a sexual assault lawsuit filed by Virginia Giuffre, as per court documents. China's claims in South China Sea gravely undermines rule of law: US State Department study Amid tensions in the South China Sea with China, the US State Department in a document hit out against the "unlawful" claims by President Xi's government. WATCH | WHO: Omicron variant is dangerous for those who have not been vaccinated yet ×

Morning news brief: US slams China's South China Sea claims, Prince Andrew's sex assault case and more

Russian ambassador to US Anatoly Antonov has said that global democratic forces needed to help restore peace in Kazakhstan instead of destabilising the situation. He took shot at the US by saying that situation in the region had worsened after 'American escape from Afghanistan'

"Kazakhstan has come under attack of radicals manifesting dehumanizing ideologies. Thousands of jihadists and marauders tried to `undermine` the constitutional order. They use weapons against civilians. They keep on inflicting damage to public and private property. I`d like to note that all this is happening after the American escape from Afghanistan and the rapid development of extremist ideas in the region," said Antonov in a statement published on Russian embassy's FB page.

"Today, all democratic forces in the world need to help the Government of Kazakhstan recover from the current turmoil, and try not to deteriorate the situation," Antonov stressed.

He said that unrest in Kazakhstan was assisted by thugs. He further said that it was essential that terrorism in the country is eradicated and order is restored.

Kazakhstan continues to be in the grip of the unrest though situation has marginally improved. On Sunday (January 9), more than 160 people were reported dead by a government-run portal. Out of this, Almaty alone accounts for 103 
&nbsp;

Russian ambassador to US Anatoly Antonov has said that global democratic forces needed to help restore peace in Kazakhstan instead of destabilising the situation.

Russian ambassador to US Anatoly Antonov has said that global democratic forces needed to help restore peace in Kazakhstan instead of destabilising the situation. He took shot at the US by saying that situation in the region had worsened after 'American escape from Afghanistan' "Kazakhstan has come under attack of radicals manifesting dehumanizing ideologies. Thousands of jihadists and marauders tried to `undermine` the constitutional order. They use weapons against civilians. They keep on inflicting damage to public and private property. I`d like to note that all this is happening after the American escape from Afghanistan and the rapid development of extremist ideas in the region," said Antonov in a statement published on Russian embassy's FB page. "Today, all democratic forces in the world need to help the Government of Kazakhstan recover from the current turmoil, and try not to deteriorate the situation," Antonov stressed. He said that unrest in Kazakhstan was assisted by thugs. He further said that it was essential that terrorism in the country is eradicated and order is restored. Kazakhstan continues to be in the grip of the unrest though situation has marginally improved. On Sunday (January 9), more than 160 people were reported dead by a government-run portal. Out of this, Almaty alone accounts for 103

Russian Ambassador in US says democracies must restore peace in Kazakhstan

On Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin blamed Kazakhstan's violent upheaval on damaging domestic and external forces, saying the Russian-led CSTO military alliance will not enable ex-Soviet "colour revolutions" to topple its member states.

By video link, he assured the leaders of the Russian-led Collective Security Treaty Organisation that the deployment of CSTO forces had stopped armed groups from undermining Kazakhstan's power structure.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kazakhstan-unrest-what-sparked-the-protests-and-how-they-will-affect-global-geopolitics-443011">Also read | Kazakhstan unrest: What sparked the protests and how they will affect global geopolitics</a>

"Of course, we understand the events in Kazakhstan are not the first and far from the last attempt to interfere in the internal affairs of our states from the outside," Putin said.

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"The measures taken by the CSTO have clearly shown we will not allow the situation to be rocked at home and will not allow so-called 'colour revolutions' to take place," he said, referring to several popular ex-Soviet uprisings in the last two decades.

During large anti-government protests last week, thousands of people were detained and numerous public buildings were set on fire.

He stated that the CSTO contingent would be withdrawn after their duty was completed and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev determined that they were no longer required.

Watch | Gravitas: Kazakh president issues 'shoot to kill' order

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Watch | Russia angrily responds to Blinken's recent comments over Kazakhstan

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Putin made the remarks during a speech by Tokayev, whom he commended for his bravery.

Order had been restored, but the hunt for "terrorists" was still ongoing, according to the Kazakh leader.

Protests against Tokayev's government and the man he replaced as president, 81-year-old Nursultan Nazarbayev, began over a fuel price hike before erupting into a larger demonstration against Tokayev's administration and the man he replaced as president, Nursultan Nazarbayev.&nbsp;

"The threat to Kazakhstan's statehood arose not because of spontaneous protests and rallies concerning fuel prices. It is because destructive internal and external forces took advantage of the situation, " Putin said.

(With inputs from agencies)

On Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin blamed Kazakhstan's violent upheaval on damaging domestic and external forces, saying the Russian-led CSTO military alliance will not enable ex-Soviet "colour revolutions" to topple its member states.

On Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin blamed Kazakhstan's violent upheaval on damaging domestic and external forces, saying the Russian-led CSTO military alliance will not enable ex-Soviet "colour revolutions" to topple its member states. By video link, he assured the leaders of the Russian-led Collective Security Treaty Organisation that the deployment of CSTO forces had stopped armed groups from undermining Kazakhstan's power structure. Also read | Kazakhstan unrest: What sparked the protests and how they will affect global geopolitics "Of course, we understand the events in Kazakhstan are not the first and far from the last attempt to interfere in the internal affairs of our states from the outside," Putin said. Almost 8,000 people have been arrested around the country after protests sparked by an increase in fuel prices evolved into the country's worst unrest in its 30 years of independence. × "The measures taken by the CSTO have clearly shown we will not allow the situation to be rocked at home and will not allow so-called 'colour revolutions' to take place," he said, referring to several popular ex-Soviet uprisings in the last two decades. During large anti-government protests last week, thousands of people were detained and numerous public buildings were set on fire. He stated that the CSTO contingent would be withdrawn after their duty was completed and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev determined that they were no longer required. Watch | Gravitas: Kazakh president issues 'shoot to kill' order Watch | Russia angrily responds to Blinken's recent comments over Kazakhstan Putin made the remarks during a speech by Tokayev, whom he commended for his bravery. Order had been restored, but the hunt for "terrorists" was still ongoing, according to the Kazakh leader. Protests against Tokayev's government and the man he replaced as president, 81-year-old Nursultan Nazarbayev, began over a fuel price hike before erupting into a larger demonstration against Tokayev's administration and the man he replaced as president, Nursultan Nazarbayev. "The threat to Kazakhstan's statehood arose not because of spontaneous protests and rallies concerning fuel prices. It is because destructive internal and external forces took advantage of the situation, " Putin said. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian-led bloc will stymie any coups, says Putin after Kazakhstan riots

Kazakhstan’s former head of national security intelligence has been arrested on suspicion of treason after he was fired following massive unrest in the country.

The National Security Committee, or KNB, in a statement on Saturday said that its former chief Karim Masimov – who was fired earlier this week—was detained, along with several other officials.

It refused to provide any further details on the nature of offences committed by Masimov.

Masimov is widely viewed as a close ally of former president and officially designated leader of the nation Nursultan Nazarbayev. He has twice been prime minister and has also served as head of the presidential administration under Nazarbayev.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kazakhstan-unrest-what-sparked-the-protests-and-how-they-will-affect-global-geopolitics-443011">Kazakhstan unrest: What sparked the protests and how they will affect global geopolitics</a>

KNB, a successor to the Soviet-era KGB, is responsible for counterintelligence, the border guards service and anti-terror activities.

Meanwhile, 26 demonstrators were killed in this week’s protest and 18 law enforcement officers have died. More than 4,400 people have been arrested, the Ministry of Internal Affairs said on Saturday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-kazakh-leader-tokayev-discuss-measures-to-restore-order-in-kazakhstan-443183">Putin, Kazakh leader Tokayev discuss measures to ‘restore order’ in Kazakhstan</a>

Public buildings across Kazakhstan were ransacked and torched in the worst violence experienced by the former Soviet republic in 30 years of independence.&nbsp;Russian-backed&nbsp;Collective Security Treaty Organisation&nbsp;sent troops to quell protests following request from&nbsp;Kazakhstan President&nbsp;Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

Security forces appeared to have reclaimed the streets of Kazakhstan’s main city Almaty on Friday after days of violence. The Russian-backed Tokayev said he ordered his troops “to shoot to kill” to put down a countrywide uprising.

The protests in Kazakhstan began in response to fuel hikes but grew to reflect discontent at the government and Nazarbayev, who passed the baton to his successor Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in 2019 and is still believed to hold immense influence in the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

Kazakhstan’s former head of national security intelligence has been arrested on suspicion of treason after he was fired following massive unrest in the country. The National Security Committee, or KNB, in a statement on Saturday said that its former chief Karim Masimov – who was fired earlier this week—was detained, along with several other officials.

Kazakhstan’s former head of national security intelligence has been arrested on suspicion of treason after he was fired following massive unrest in the country. The National Security Committee, or KNB, in a statement on Saturday said that its former chief Karim Masimov – who was fired earlier this week—was detained, along with several other officials. It refused to provide any further details on the nature of offences committed by Masimov. Masimov is widely viewed as a close ally of former president and officially designated leader of the nation Nursultan Nazarbayev. He has twice been prime minister and has also served as head of the presidential administration under Nazarbayev. Also read | Kazakhstan unrest: What sparked the protests and how they will affect global geopolitics KNB, a successor to the Soviet-era KGB, is responsible for counterintelligence, the border guards service and anti-terror activities. Meanwhile, 26 demonstrators were killed in this week’s protest and 18 law enforcement officers have died. More than 4,400 people have been arrested, the Ministry of Internal Affairs said on Saturday. Also read | Putin, Kazakh leader Tokayev discuss measures to ‘restore order’ in Kazakhstan Public buildings across Kazakhstan were ransacked and torched in the worst violence experienced by the former Soviet republic in 30 years of independence. Russian-backed Collective Security Treaty Organisation sent troops to quell protests following request from Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Security forces appeared to have reclaimed the streets of Kazakhstan’s main city Almaty on Friday after days of violence. The Russian-backed Tokayev said he ordered his troops “to shoot to kill” to put down a countrywide uprising. The protests in Kazakhstan began in response to fuel hikes but grew to reflect discontent at the government and Nazarbayev, who passed the baton to his successor Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in 2019 and is still believed to hold immense influence in the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Kazakhstan’s former head of national security intelligence held for treason

An out-of-control Russian Angara A5 heavy-lift rocket stage made an uncontrolled re-entry back to Earth on Wednesday and media reports have stated that it landed in the Pacific Ocean.&nbsp;

On December 27, scientists had conducted a third launch of its new heavy-class Angara rocket from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome in northwestern Russia.&nbsp;

The next-generation Angara-A5 rocket had been launched with a mock payload and the state-run TASS news agency had mentioned that the aim was to test a new upper-stage rocket, called the Persei booster, for the first time.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/chemical-leftovers-from-earths-creation-still-lingering-deep-within-our-planet-study-442513">Chemical leftovers from Earth's creation still lingering deep within our planet: Study</a>

Space agency Roscosmos had congratulated the military-space forces and the entire Russian space industry and called the launch "successful". However, the launcher was prevented from reaching higher than low-Earth orbit after the booster suffered engine failure, as per reports.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the 18th Space Control Squadron, which is a&nbsp;United States Space Force space control unit, confirmed on Wednesday that the re-entry occurred at 4:08pm&nbsp;EST over the South Pacific. No other information is out yet.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/18SPCS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#18SPCS</a> has confirmed the reentry of the IPM 3/PERSEY (#50505, 2021-133A) at 13:08 PDT on 5 Jan, 2022, over the Pacific Ocean. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/spaceflightsafety?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#spaceflightsafety</a>
— 18th Space Control Squadron (@18SPCS) <a href="https://twitter.com/18SPCS/status/1478856999697731584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Most of the debris from space burn up while re-entering Earth's atmosphere and pose lesser harm, however, there are instances when they reach the Earth's surface and it can be dangerous depending on where they land.&nbsp;

Astronomer and satellite tracker Jonathan McDowell, who's based at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, said, "Persei reentry confirmed: 2108 UTC over 121W 14S in the South [Pacific]."&nbsp;

He had previously tweeted, "To be clear, I do NOT regard this object as a significant risk. Reentries for a object with dry mass of about 4 tonnes may see some debris reach the ground, but not much."

The head of the European Space Agency's Space Debris Office, Holger Krag also weighed in on the incident as he gave specifics about the debris.&nbsp;

As quoted by CNN, he said the Russian rocket part had been travelling at 7.5 kilometres per second.&nbsp;

Last year in May, NASA has slammed China after debris from its out-of-control rocket was reportedly crashed into the Indian Ocean.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/this-asteroid-can-make-you-richer-than-a-billionaire-442485">This asteroid can make you richer than a billionaire</a>

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Persei reentry confirmed: 2108 UTC over 121W 14S in the South Pacfici
— Jonathan McDowell (@planet4589) <a href="https://twitter.com/planet4589/status/1478854309861380099?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Here is a beautiful illustration of Persei, with attached conical dummy payload, by master space artist <a href="https://twitter.com/RussianSpaceWeb?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RussianSpaceWeb</a> <a href="https://t.co/zVQYqvjc9v">https://t.co/zVQYqvjc9v</a>
— Jonathan McDowell (@planet4589) <a href="https://twitter.com/planet4589/status/1478799332191125506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Angara rockets - named after a Siberian river flowing out of Lake Baikal - are the first new family of launchers to be built after the collapse of the Soviet Union.

They are designed to replace the Proton rockets that date back to the 1960s and have suffered a series of failures in recent years.&nbsp;

Officials say the heavy-class Angara rocket is more environmentally friendly than its predecessors because it is fuelled by oxygen and kerosene rather than hugely toxic heptyl.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

An out-of-control Russian Angara A5 heavy-lift rocket stage made an uncontrolled re-entry back to Earth on Wednesday and media reports have stated that it landed in the Pacific Ocean.

An out-of-control Russian Angara A5 heavy-lift rocket stage made an uncontrolled re-entry back to Earth on Wednesday and media reports have stated that it landed in the Pacific Ocean. On December 27, scientists had conducted a third launch of its new heavy-class Angara rocket from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome in northwestern Russia. The next-generation Angara-A5 rocket had been launched with a mock payload and the state-run TASS news agency had mentioned that the aim was to test a new upper-stage rocket, called the Persei booster, for the first time. ALSO READ | Chemical leftovers from Earth's creation still lingering deep within our planet: Study Space agency Roscosmos had congratulated the military-space forces and the entire Russian space industry and called the launch "successful". However, the launcher was prevented from reaching higher than low-Earth orbit after the booster suffered engine failure, as per reports. Meanwhile, the 18th Space Control Squadron, which is a United States Space Force space control unit, confirmed on Wednesday that the re-entry occurred at 4:08pm EST over the South Pacific. No other information is out yet. #18SPCS has confirmed the reentry of the IPM 3/PERSEY (#50505, 2021-133A) at 13:08 PDT on 5 Jan, 2022, over the Pacific Ocean. #spaceflightsafety — 18th Space Control Squadron (@18SPCS) January 5, 2022 × Most of the debris from space burn up while re-entering Earth's atmosphere and pose lesser harm, however, there are instances when they reach the Earth's surface and it can be dangerous depending on where they land. Astronomer and satellite tracker Jonathan McDowell, who's based at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, said, "Persei reentry confirmed: 2108 UTC over 121W 14S in the South [Pacific]." He had previously tweeted, "To be clear, I do NOT regard this object as a significant risk. Reentries for a object with dry mass of about 4 tonnes may see some debris reach the ground, but not much." The head of the European Space Agency's Space Debris Office, Holger Krag also weighed in on the incident as he gave specifics about the debris. As quoted by CNN, he said the Russian rocket part had been travelling at 7.5 kilometres per second. Last year in May, NASA has slammed China after debris from its out-of-control rocket was reportedly crashed into the Indian Ocean. ALSO READ | This asteroid can make you richer than a billionaire Persei reentry confirmed: 2108 UTC over 121W 14S in the South Pacfici — Jonathan McDowell (@planet4589) January 5, 2022 × Here is a beautiful illustration of Persei, with attached conical dummy payload, by master space artist @RussianSpaceWeb https://t.co/zVQYqvjc9v — Jonathan McDowell (@planet4589) January 5, 2022 × Angara rockets - named after a Siberian river flowing out of Lake Baikal - are the first new family of launchers to be built after the collapse of the Soviet Union. They are designed to replace the Proton rockets that date back to the 1960s and have suffered a series of failures in recent years. Officials say the heavy-class Angara rocket is more environmentally friendly than its predecessors because it is fuelled by oxygen and kerosene rather than hugely toxic heptyl. (With inputs from agencies)

Part of failed Russian rocket makes uncontrolled re-entry into Earth's atmosphere, crashes

Ukrainian army said on Saturday that one of its soldiers was killed in fighting with pro-Russian separatists. This has come just a day before US President Joe Biden is due to speak with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky. Biden has already warned President Vladimir Putin against invading Ukraine.

In his New Year's Eve address, Zelensky said ending the war in the east remains his "main goal".&nbsp;

"One serviceman of the Joint Forces was fatally wounded," the army said in a statement, adding that separatists had launched three attacks within 24 hours, using grenade launchers and small arms.&nbsp;

The army gave no further details of how the soldier was killed.&nbsp;

Tensions with Moscow have soared in recent months, with Russia massing troops near Ukraine's borders.&nbsp;

The West has accused the Kremlin of planning an invasion.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/the-larger-dimensions-of-the-russia-us-standoff-over-ukraine-441480">The larger dimensions of the Russia–US standoff over Ukraine</a>

This week, Biden held his second phone call with Putin in just over three weeks, threatening Moscow with major economic sanctions should it launch an attack.&nbsp;

The Russian leader said anti-Moscow sanctions would be a "colossal mistake".

On December 22 international monitors said Russia and Ukraine had agreed to restore a ceasefire, but as early as the next day Kiev and separatists accused each other of new violations.&nbsp;

The soldier's death on Saturday was the first since the truce was agreed.&nbsp;

All previous ceasefires -- including the previous truce agreed in July 2020 -- crumbled.&nbsp;

Kiev has been battling a pro-Moscow insurgency in two breakaway regions bordering Russia since 2014, when the Kremlin annexed Ukraine’s Crimean peninsula.&nbsp;

The conflict in eastern Ukraine has so far left more than 13,000 dead.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian army said on Saturday that one of its soldiers was killed in fighting with pro-Russian separatists. This has come just a day before US President Joe Biden is due to speak with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Ukrainian army said on Saturday that one of its soldiers was killed in fighting with pro-Russian separatists. This has come just a day before US President Joe Biden is due to speak with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky. Biden has already warned President Vladimir Putin against invading Ukraine. In his New Year's Eve address, Zelensky said ending the war in the east remains his "main goal". "One serviceman of the Joint Forces was fatally wounded," the army said in a statement, adding that separatists had launched three attacks within 24 hours, using grenade launchers and small arms. The army gave no further details of how the soldier was killed. Tensions with Moscow have soared in recent months, with Russia massing troops near Ukraine's borders. The West has accused the Kremlin of planning an invasion. Also Read | The larger dimensions of the Russia–US standoff over Ukraine This week, Biden held his second phone call with Putin in just over three weeks, threatening Moscow with major economic sanctions should it launch an attack. The Russian leader said anti-Moscow sanctions would be a "colossal mistake". On December 22 international monitors said Russia and Ukraine had agreed to restore a ceasefire, but as early as the next day Kiev and separatists accused each other of new violations. The soldier's death on Saturday was the first since the truce was agreed. All previous ceasefires -- including the previous truce agreed in July 2020 -- crumbled. Kiev has been battling a pro-Moscow insurgency in two breakaway regions bordering Russia since 2014, when the Kremlin annexed Ukraine’s Crimean peninsula. The conflict in eastern Ukraine has so far left more than 13,000 dead. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian soldier killed in fight with pro-Russian separatists

Russia will be forced to take necessary measures to eliminate unacceptable threats if the United States and NATO don’t respond to Moscow’s security proposals, Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov said on Friday.

“If a constructive response does not follow within a reasonable time and the West continues its aggressive line, then Russia will be forced to take all necessary measures to ensure a strategic balance and eliminate unacceptable threats to our security,” Lavrov told news agency Sputnik.

The remarks came hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin and his American counterpart Joe Biden spoke over phone, where the two focused on the security guarantee talks set for early January 2022 amid simmering tensions over Ukraine.

The security guarantees talks will be held in three formats: between Russia and the US in Geneva on 10 January, followed by a Russia-NATO Council meeting on 12 January, and Russia-OSCE consultations on 13 January.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-russia-talks-biden-affirms-sanctions-threat-putin-says-that-would-be-colossal-mistake-441294">US-Russia talks: Biden affirms sanctions threat; Putin says that would be colossal mistake</a>

Lavrov said that Washington and its allies are currently reviewing Russia’s proposals.

Russia had recently sent a draft agreement to&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;and a draft treaty to the United States both on&nbsp;security&nbsp;guarantees in Europe for the Western countries to consider.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-tensions-with-ukraine-russia-inducts-s-550-air-defence-system-report-440960">Also Read:&nbsp;Amid tensions with Ukraine, Russia inducts S-550 air defence system</a>

The security guarantee documents demand that NATO deny membership to Ukraine and other former Soviet countries and roll back its military deployments in Central and Eastern Europe.

However, US and its allies refused to consider Russia's demand on Ukraine, citing NATO’s principle that membership is open to any qualifying country.

They agreed, however, to hold talks with Russia to discuss its concerns.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia will be forced to take necessary measures to eliminate unacceptable threats if the United States and NATO don’t respond to Moscow’s security proposals, Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov said on Friday.

Russia will be forced to take necessary measures to eliminate unacceptable threats if the United States and NATO don’t respond to Moscow’s security proposals, Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov said on Friday. “If a constructive response does not follow within a reasonable time and the West continues its aggressive line, then Russia will be forced to take all necessary measures to ensure a strategic balance and eliminate unacceptable threats to our security,” Lavrov told news agency Sputnik. The remarks came hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin and his American counterpart Joe Biden spoke over phone, where the two focused on the security guarantee talks set for early January 2022 amid simmering tensions over Ukraine. The security guarantees talks will be held in three formats: between Russia and the US in Geneva on 10 January, followed by a Russia-NATO Council meeting on 12 January, and Russia-OSCE consultations on 13 January. Also read | US-Russia talks: Biden affirms sanctions threat; Putin says that would be colossal mistake Lavrov said that Washington and its allies are currently reviewing Russia’s proposals. Russia had recently sent a draft agreement to NATO and a draft treaty to the United States both on security guarantees in Europe for the Western countries to consider. Also Read: Amid tensions with Ukraine, Russia inducts S-550 air defence system The security guarantee documents demand that NATO deny membership to Ukraine and other former Soviet countries and roll back its military deployments in Central and Eastern Europe. However, US and its allies refused to consider Russia's demand on Ukraine, citing NATO’s principle that membership is open to any qualifying country. They agreed, however, to hold talks with Russia to discuss its concerns. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia will take measures to eliminate threats if US ignores security proposals: Minister Lavrov

Russia test-fired around 10 new Tsirkon (Zircon) hypersonic cruise missiles from a frigate, Interfax news agency reported on Friday. The report added that two more were test-fired from a submarine.&nbsp;

"The Project 22350, Admiral Gorshkov, successfully conducted a series of tests of the hypersonic Zirkon missile, a total of about 10 launches," Interfax quoted the northern fleet.&nbsp;

"The Project 885, Severodvinsk, a Yasen class nuclear-power submarine, conducted two test firing of Zirkon missiles," it added.&nbsp;

Last week, Russia had confirmed that the military successfully fired a simultaneous salvo of its Zircon hypersonic missiles. Russia has carried out a number of successful tests of its Zircon hypersonic cruise missile.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-russia-talks-biden-affirms-sanctions-threat-putin-says-that-would-be-colossal-mistake-441294">US-Russia talks: Biden affirms sanctions threat; Putin says that would be colossal mistake</a>

However, it was the first time that Russian authorities reported a successful simultaneous launch test of several Zircon missiles. Now, looks like more details of the launch have emerged.&nbsp;

Last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin lauded the weapon as part of a new generation of unrivalled arms systems. He had called it "a big event in the country's life". He added that this was "a substantial step" in increasing Russia's defence capabilities.

Russia, the United States, France and China have all been experimenting with so-called hypersonic glide vehicles — defined as reaching speeds of at least Mach 5.

The launch was confirmed amid escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine. During his latest telephonic conversation with US President Joe Biden, he said new sanctions risked a "complete rupture".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Biden "made clear that the United States and its allies and partners will respond decisively if Russia further invades Ukraine," Press Secretary Jen Psaki said in a statement after Biden's 50-minute call with the Russian leader. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia test-fired around 10 new Tsirkon (Zircon) hypersonic cruise missiles from a frigate, Interfax news agency reported on Friday. The report added that two more were test-fired from a submarine.

Russia test-fired around 10 new Tsirkon (Zircon) hypersonic cruise missiles from a frigate, Interfax news agency reported on Friday. The report added that two more were test-fired from a submarine. "The Project 22350, Admiral Gorshkov, successfully conducted a series of tests of the hypersonic Zirkon missile, a total of about 10 launches," Interfax quoted the northern fleet. "The Project 885, Severodvinsk, a Yasen class nuclear-power submarine, conducted two test firing of Zirkon missiles," it added. Last week, Russia had confirmed that the military successfully fired a simultaneous salvo of its Zircon hypersonic missiles. Russia has carried out a number of successful tests of its Zircon hypersonic cruise missile. ALSO READ | US-Russia talks: Biden affirms sanctions threat; Putin says that would be colossal mistake However, it was the first time that Russian authorities reported a successful simultaneous launch test of several Zircon missiles. Now, looks like more details of the launch have emerged. Last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin lauded the weapon as part of a new generation of unrivalled arms systems. He had called it "a big event in the country's life". He added that this was "a substantial step" in increasing Russia's defence capabilities. Russia, the United States, France and China have all been experimenting with so-called hypersonic glide vehicles — defined as reaching speeds of at least Mach 5. The launch was confirmed amid escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine. During his latest telephonic conversation with US President Joe Biden, he said new sanctions risked a "complete rupture". Meanwhile, Biden "made clear that the United States and its allies and partners will respond decisively if Russia further invades Ukraine," Press Secretary Jen Psaki said in a statement after Biden's 50-minute call with the Russian leader. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia's new hypersonic Tsirkon missile was fired from frigate, submarine; new details emerge

The United States on Tuesday expressed caution over upbeat comments by Iran and Russia about talks in Vienna to salvage the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, saying it was still too soon to say if Tehran had returned to the negotiations with a constructive approach. 
 
Iran and Russia both gave upbeat views on Tuesday about talks that kicked off this week to salvage Tehran`s 2015 nuclear deal with global powers, although Western nations have said the negotiations are going too slowly. 
 
Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said a deal was possible in the near future if other parties showed "good faith" while Russian envoy Mikhail Ulyanov said a working group was making "indisputable progress" in the eighth round of talks. 
 
Speaking at a telephonic press briefing, State Department spokesperson Ned Price said there was some progress in the last round of talks but it was too soon to tell whether Tehran, in the current round, returned to the table to build on those gains. 
 
"It`s really too soon to tell whether Iran has returned with a more constructive approach to this round," Price said. "We are now assessing, in the course of these talks, whether the Iranians came back with an agenda of new issues or preliminary solutions to the ones already presented," Price said. 
 
The original agreement lifted sanctions against Tehran in exchange for restrictions on its atomic activities but Donald Trump pulled Washington out of the deal in 2018, a year after he became U.S president. Iran later breached many of the deal`s nuclear restrictions and kept pushing well beyond them. 
 
The latest round of indirect talks between Iran and the United States resumed on Monday in Vienna, with Tehran focused on getting U.S. sanctions lifted again, as they were under the original bargain, despite scant progress on reining in its atomic activities. 
 
Iran refuses to meet U.S. officials directly, meaning other parties to the deal besides the United States and Iran --- Russia, China, France, Britain, Germany and the European Union -- must shuttle between the two sides. 
 
The seventh round of talks, the first under Iran`s new hardline President Ebrahim Raisi, ended 11 days ago after some new Iranian demands were added to a working text. 
 
"The Vienna talks are headed in a good direction," Iranian Minister Amirabdollahian said in comments to reporters broadcast by state media. "We believe that if other parties continue the round of talks which just started with good faith, reaching a good agreement for all parties is possible." 
 
The U.S. delegation, led by Special Envoy Rob Malley, will be in a better position in the coming days to determine whether Iran has to come to the latest round of talks with a `fundamentally different position," Price said. 
 
Iran insists all U.S. sanctions must be lifted before steps are taken on the nuclear side, while Western negotiators say nuclear and sanctions steps must be balanced in the agreement, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. 
 
URGENT NEGOTIATIONS 
 
European negotiators also said some technical progress had been made in the last round of talks to accommodate Iranian requests, but warned that the parties only had weeks, not months, to salvage the deal. 
 
France, Germany and the United Kingdom said in a statement on Tuesday that technical progress had been made in the last round and the parties now needed to fully focus on the key outstanding issues, particularly nuclear and sanctions. 
 
They said while they were not setting an artificial deadline, there were weeks not months left to strike a deal. 
 
"The negotiation is urgent - and our teams are here to work swiftly and in good faith towards getting a deal." 
 
Ulyanov, the Russian envoy, said on Tuesday that a working group was making progress. "Sanctions lifting is being actively discussed in informal settings," he wrote on Twitter. 
 
The 2015 deal extended the time Iran would need to obtain enough fissile material for a nuclear bomb - if it chose to - to at least a year from about two to three months. Most experts say that time is now less than before the deal, although Iran says it only wants to master nuclear technology for civil uses. 
 
Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said Israel would not automatically oppose a nuclear deal but world powers must take a firmer position. 
 
Israel says it will never allow Iran to get nuclear weapons and that all options are on the table. Israeli leaders have said that a nuclear Iran would pose an existential threat to Israel.

The United States on Tuesday expressed caution over upbeat comments by Iran and Russia about talks in Vienna to salvage the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, saying it was still too soon to say if Tehran had returned to the negotiations with a constructive approach.

The United States on Tuesday expressed caution over upbeat comments by Iran and Russia about talks in Vienna to salvage the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, saying it was still too soon to say if Tehran had returned to the negotiations with a constructive approach. Iran and Russia both gave upbeat views on Tuesday about talks that kicked off this week to salvage Tehran`s 2015 nuclear deal with global powers, although Western nations have said the negotiations are going too slowly. Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said a deal was possible in the near future if other parties showed "good faith" while Russian envoy Mikhail Ulyanov said a working group was making "indisputable progress" in the eighth round of talks. Speaking at a telephonic press briefing, State Department spokesperson Ned Price said there was some progress in the last round of talks but it was too soon to tell whether Tehran, in the current round, returned to the table to build on those gains. "It`s really too soon to tell whether Iran has returned with a more constructive approach to this round," Price said. "We are now assessing, in the course of these talks, whether the Iranians came back with an agenda of new issues or preliminary solutions to the ones already presented," Price said. The original agreement lifted sanctions against Tehran in exchange for restrictions on its atomic activities but Donald Trump pulled Washington out of the deal in 2018, a year after he became U.S president. Iran later breached many of the deal`s nuclear restrictions and kept pushing well beyond them. The latest round of indirect talks between Iran and the United States resumed on Monday in Vienna, with Tehran focused on getting U.S. sanctions lifted again, as they were under the original bargain, despite scant progress on reining in its atomic activities. Iran refuses to meet U.S. officials directly, meaning other parties to the deal besides the United States and Iran --- Russia, China, France, Britain, Germany and the European Union -- must shuttle between the two sides. The seventh round of talks, the first under Iran`s new hardline President Ebrahim Raisi, ended 11 days ago after some new Iranian demands were added to a working text. "The Vienna talks are headed in a good direction," Iranian Minister Amirabdollahian said in comments to reporters broadcast by state media. "We believe that if other parties continue the round of talks which just started with good faith, reaching a good agreement for all parties is possible." The U.S. delegation, led by Special Envoy Rob Malley, will be in a better position in the coming days to determine whether Iran has to come to the latest round of talks with a `fundamentally different position," Price said. Iran insists all U.S. sanctions must be lifted before steps are taken on the nuclear side, while Western negotiators say nuclear and sanctions steps must be balanced in the agreement, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. URGENT NEGOTIATIONS European negotiators also said some technical progress had been made in the last round of talks to accommodate Iranian requests, but warned that the parties only had weeks, not months, to salvage the deal. France, Germany and the United Kingdom said in a statement on Tuesday that technical progress had been made in the last round and the parties now needed to fully focus on the key outstanding issues, particularly nuclear and sanctions. They said while they were not setting an artificial deadline, there were weeks not months left to strike a deal. "The negotiation is urgent - and our teams are here to work swiftly and in good faith towards getting a deal." Ulyanov, the Russian envoy, said on Tuesday that a working group was making progress. "Sanctions lifting is being actively discussed in informal settings," he wrote on Twitter. The 2015 deal extended the time Iran would need to obtain enough fissile material for a nuclear bomb - if it chose to - to at least a year from about two to three months. Most experts say that time is now less than before the deal, although Iran says it only wants to master nuclear technology for civil uses. Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said Israel would not automatically oppose a nuclear deal but world powers must take a firmer position. Israel says it will never allow Iran to get nuclear weapons and that all options are on the table. Israeli leaders have said that a nuclear Iran would pose an existential threat to Israel.

US sounds caution against optimism by Iran, Russia over nuclear talks

Germany’s new chancellor, Olaf Scholz, did not have to wait long after taking office to be asked about Nord Stream 2. An undersea Russia-to-Germany gas pipeline, the project has inflamed anger in Washington and European capitals at a time when tensions with Moscow are running high.

Scholz’s coalition government includes the Green Party, whose members are sharp critics of Nord Stream 2. He surprised many by taking the same stance as his immediate predecessor, Angela Merkel, who championed the pipeline as a business venture essential for the success of Germany’s industrial base.

“Nord Stream 2 is a private-sector project,” the new German chancellor told reporters. The ultimate decision over approval of the pipeline, he said, will be made by “an agency in Germany, completely nonpolitically.”

But it’s not that simple. With thousands of Russian troops massing on the border with Ukraine and a threat of possible U.S. sanctions against the pipeline, the future of Nord Stream 2 remains anything but certain.

Adding to the problem are natural gas prices in Europe, which have broken records in recent weeks because supplies are tight. These prices are soaring while half of Germany’s six remaining nuclear reactors are being taken offline and winter is settling in, driving up demand. Nord Stream 2 was initiated in 2015 to help avoid such energy crunches — now it appears to be exacerbating them instead.

Then there are the pressures within Scholz’s own government, where leaders from the Greens have made remarks that support the European and U.S. push for Germany to use the pipeline as leverage against President Vladimir Putin of Russia.

Despite all of the conflicts, observers believe the $11 billion pipeline, designed to deliver Russian gas while bypassing countries in Russia’s former sphere of influence, will come online once it passes a final bureaucratic hurdle — certification from the German regulator.

“I think that ultimately it will be certified, but there could be conditions attached to it related to continued transit access across Ukraine,” said Katja Yafimava, a senior research fellow at the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies. “I think that politics will play a role, potentially quite a big role.”

As its name indicates, Nord Stream 2 runs alongside the original Nord Stream pipeline, which began operation in 2012. Unlike the older line, Nord Stream 2 is wholly owned by Gazprom, Russia’s giant state-owned energy company.

Germany’s European partners are most concerned about a potential loss of billions in annual transit fees for Ukraine and other countries with pipelines once Nord Stream 2 goes online. The United States views the project as a threat to European security, handing Putin an easy way to exert influence over a part of the world where Americans enjoy strategic partnerships.

“The United States sees the Nord Stream 2 pipeline as a Russian geopolitical project that undermines the energy security and the national security of a significant part of the Euro-Atlantic community,” Karen Donfried, the assistant secretary of state for Europe, recently told reporters.

Critics in Washington, led by Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, have repeatedly sought to penalize companies involved in the pipeline project to prevent it from coming online. The Senate recently agreed to hold a vote in January over Nord Stream sanctions in return for Cruz’s agreeing not to obstruct the approval of dozens of President Joe Biden’s nominees to State Department and Treasury Department posts.

Russia is Europe’s chief supplier of natural gas, but this year import volumes remain lower than average. Analysts said Russia had been meeting the volumes of gas agreed to in contracts, but appeared reluctant to offer European customers any further supplies. This is a critical problem because Europe needs the gas. Storage facilities entered the winter with unusually low levels of the fuel — partly because of increased global demand and a cold snap earlier in the year — and prices have soared.

“Russia has been saying that it is delivering everything according to its contracts, which looks correct,” said James Waddell, head of the European gas division at Energy Aspects in London. “But what they are not doing is selling supplementary gas in volumes that we have seen in previous years.”

Russia may be motivated by its animosity toward Ukraine’s leadership. For years Soviet-era pipelines in Ukraine have served as the main corridor into Europe for Russian gas, generating billions in transit fee revenue for the government in Kyiv. If Nord Stream 2 were up and running, with its capacity of 55 billion cubic meters of gas a year, Gazprom would be able to sell additional gas to European customers without paying transit fees to Ukraine.

For German businesses, the pipeline is needed to ensure a reliable energy flow, as the country prepares to take its last three nuclear power generators offline. The matter also became more urgent for Germany after the new government announced its intention to bring forward the date to exit coal by eight years, to 2030.

The need is especially acute in the southern German states, home to industrial giants like BASF chemicals, automaker Daimler and conglomerate Siemens. Renewable energy from wind turbines is plentiful in the north, and the government has pledged to speed up construction of high-voltage power lines to carry that power to the south, but resistance from the public has hampered progress.

“We need a secure supply of gas security, despite all of the clear political differences with Russia,” said Siegfried Russwurm, president of the Federation of German Industries. He urged the new government not to mix business with politics, pointing out that Russia began supplying West Germany with natural gas during the Cold War, when the two countries sat on opposite sides of the Iron Curtain.

“There are issues we can approach together; there are issues where we can work together despite points of difference; and there are points where we disagree,” Russwurm said, adding that energy supply belonged in the first category.

For now, the company that owns the pipeline, which is based in Switzerland but wholly owned by Gazprom, is busy setting up a subsidiary in Germany, as demanded by the German regulator to bring the pipeline in line with European Union law. Jochen Homann, the president of the Federal Network Agency, said this month that he did not expect his agency to grant approval before the second half of 2022.

After that, the ball will be passed to Brussels, where officials at the European Commission then have two months — which can be extended by an additional two months — to reach their own opinion on the pipeline. Although the commission’s decision is nonbinding, the German regulator is expected to take it into account, which could add several months.

The idea of Nord Stream 2 is that it act as an insurance policy in times of high gas prices or an energy crunch, said Jacopo Maria Pepe, a researcher in energy and climate infrastructure at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs.

But he warned that while stopping the pipeline would send a clear diplomatic message to Russia, it could risk Germany’s position as the strongest power in Europe. It could also cost Berlin the respect it needs from Moscow as the Germans support Ukraine with diplomatic efforts and economic investment, which was worth $49 billion in 2020.

“If we will still need gas, we still need Russia,” Pepe said. “There is no way to escape this reality.”

Germany’s new chancellor, Olaf Scholz, did not have to wait long after taking office to be asked about Nord Stream 2. An undersea Russia-to-Germany gas pipeline, the project has inflamed anger in Washington and European capitals at a time when tensions with Moscow are running high.

Germany’s new chancellor, Olaf Scholz, did not have to wait long after taking office to be asked about Nord Stream 2. An undersea Russia-to-Germany gas pipeline, the project has inflamed anger in Washington and European capitals at a time when tensions with Moscow are running high. Scholz’s coalition government includes the Green Party, whose members are sharp critics of Nord Stream 2. He surprised many by taking the same stance as his immediate predecessor, Angela Merkel, who championed the pipeline as a business venture essential for the success of Germany’s industrial base. “Nord Stream 2 is a private-sector project,” the new German chancellor told reporters. The ultimate decision over approval of the pipeline, he said, will be made by “an agency in Germany, completely nonpolitically.” But it’s not that simple. With thousands of Russian troops massing on the border with Ukraine and a threat of possible U.S. sanctions against the pipeline, the future of Nord Stream 2 remains anything but certain. Adding to the problem are natural gas prices in Europe, which have broken records in recent weeks because supplies are tight. These prices are soaring while half of Germany’s six remaining nuclear reactors are being taken offline and winter is settling in, driving up demand. Nord Stream 2 was initiated in 2015 to help avoid such energy crunches — now it appears to be exacerbating them instead. Then there are the pressures within Scholz’s own government, where leaders from the Greens have made remarks that support the European and U.S. push for Germany to use the pipeline as leverage against President Vladimir Putin of Russia. Despite all of the conflicts, observers believe the $11 billion pipeline, designed to deliver Russian gas while bypassing countries in Russia’s former sphere of influence, will come online once it passes a final bureaucratic hurdle — certification from the German regulator. “I think that ultimately it will be certified, but there could be conditions attached to it related to continued transit access across Ukraine,” said Katja Yafimava, a senior research fellow at the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies. “I think that politics will play a role, potentially quite a big role.” As its name indicates, Nord Stream 2 runs alongside the original Nord Stream pipeline, which began operation in 2012. Unlike the older line, Nord Stream 2 is wholly owned by Gazprom, Russia’s giant state-owned energy company. Germany’s European partners are most concerned about a potential loss of billions in annual transit fees for Ukraine and other countries with pipelines once Nord Stream 2 goes online. The United States views the project as a threat to European security, handing Putin an easy way to exert influence over a part of the world where Americans enjoy strategic partnerships. “The United States sees the Nord Stream 2 pipeline as a Russian geopolitical project that undermines the energy security and the national security of a significant part of the Euro-Atlantic community,” Karen Donfried, the assistant secretary of state for Europe, recently told reporters. Critics in Washington, led by Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, have repeatedly sought to penalize companies involved in the pipeline project to prevent it from coming online. The Senate recently agreed to hold a vote in January over Nord Stream sanctions in return for Cruz’s agreeing not to obstruct the approval of dozens of President Joe Biden’s nominees to State Department and Treasury Department posts. Russia is Europe’s chief supplier of natural gas, but this year import volumes remain lower than average. Analysts said Russia had been meeting the volumes of gas agreed to in contracts, but appeared reluctant to offer European customers any further supplies. This is a critical problem because Europe needs the gas. Storage facilities entered the winter with unusually low levels of the fuel — partly because of increased global demand and a cold snap earlier in the year — and prices have soared. “Russia has been saying that it is delivering everything according to its contracts, which looks correct,” said James Waddell, head of the European gas division at Energy Aspects in London. “But what they are not doing is selling supplementary gas in volumes that we have seen in previous years.” Russia may be motivated by its animosity toward Ukraine’s leadership. For years Soviet-era pipelines in Ukraine have served as the main corridor into Europe for Russian gas, generating billions in transit fee revenue for the government in Kyiv. If Nord Stream 2 were up and running, with its capacity of 55 billion cubic meters of gas a year, Gazprom would be able to sell additional gas to European customers without paying transit fees to Ukraine. For German businesses, the pipeline is needed to ensure a reliable energy flow, as the country prepares to take its last three nuclear power generators offline. The matter also became more urgent for Germany after the new government announced its intention to bring forward the date to exit coal by eight years, to 2030. The need is especially acute in the southern German states, home to industrial giants like BASF chemicals, automaker Daimler and conglomerate Siemens. Renewable energy from wind turbines is plentiful in the north, and the government has pledged to speed up construction of high-voltage power lines to carry that power to the south, but resistance from the public has hampered progress. “We need a secure supply of gas security, despite all of the clear political differences with Russia,” said Siegfried Russwurm, president of the Federation of German Industries. He urged the new government not to mix business with politics, pointing out that Russia began supplying West Germany with natural gas during the Cold War, when the two countries sat on opposite sides of the Iron Curtain. “There are issues we can approach together; there are issues where we can work together despite points of difference; and there are points where we disagree,” Russwurm said, adding that energy supply belonged in the first category. For now, the company that owns the pipeline, which is based in Switzerland but wholly owned by Gazprom, is busy setting up a subsidiary in Germany, as demanded by the German regulator to bring the pipeline in line with European Union law. Jochen Homann, the president of the Federal Network Agency, said this month that he did not expect his agency to grant approval before the second half of 2022. After that, the ball will be passed to Brussels, where officials at the European Commission then have two months — which can be extended by an additional two months — to reach their own opinion on the pipeline. Although the commission’s decision is nonbinding, the German regulator is expected to take it into account, which could add several months. The idea of Nord Stream 2 is that it act as an insurance policy in times of high gas prices or an energy crunch, said Jacopo Maria Pepe, a researcher in energy and climate infrastructure at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs. But he warned that while stopping the pipeline would send a clear diplomatic message to Russia, it could risk Germany’s position as the strongest power in Europe. It could also cost Berlin the respect it needs from Moscow as the Germans support Ukraine with diplomatic efforts and economic investment, which was worth $49 billion in 2020. “If we will still need gas, we still need Russia,” Pepe said. “There is no way to escape this reality.”

Germany wants its Russian pipeline. German allies aren’t sure it’s a good idea.

Russia’s oldest human rights group which was founded in 1980s to document the political suppressions under the Soviet Union was ordered to closed down by the country’s Supreme Court.

The court ordered the closure of the Memorial International under Russia’s controversial “foreign agent” law, which has targeted dozens of NGOs and media outlets who were perceived as critical of the government.

About 100 supporters of the organisation had gathered outside the court on Tuesday,&nbsp;with many chanting “shame” after the verdict was delivered. Police made several arrests, according to reports.

The NGO tweeted images of police carrying away a protester.

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Задерживали сегодня в том числе так <a href="https://t.co/S8CmmtOmbb">pic.twitter.com/S8CmmtOmbb</a>
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The designation “foreign agent” is used on those organisations who receive funding from abroad.

The memorial had been working to recover the memory of the millions of innocent people executed, imprisoned or persecuted in the Soviet era.

In court, prosecutor Alexei Zhafyarov labelled the Memorial as “public threat” which was distorting history.

He also accused the group of being in the pay of the West to focus attention on Soviet crimes instead of highlighting a “glorious past”.

Judge Alla Nazarova ordered that the organisation be closed for “repeated and gross” violations of Russia’s foreign agent laws.

Apart from that, various other organists run by the group, including Memorial International Historical, Educational, Charitable, and Human Rights Society, and “its regional branches and other structural units”, have been ordered to shut down.

Genri Reznik, a lawyer who represented Memorial on Tuesday, told the Guardian that decision reeked of politics, adding that the hearing reminded him of the Soviet show trials of the 1930s.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia’s oldest human rights group which was founded in 1980s to document the political suppressions under the Soviet Union was ordered to closed down by the country’s Supreme Court.

Russia’s oldest human rights group which was founded in 1980s to document the political suppressions under the Soviet Union was ordered to closed down by the country’s Supreme Court. The court ordered the closure of the Memorial International under Russia’s controversial “foreign agent” law, which has targeted dozens of NGOs and media outlets who were perceived as critical of the government. About 100 supporters of the organisation had gathered outside the court on Tuesday, with many chanting “shame” after the verdict was delivered. Police made several arrests, according to reports. The NGO tweeted images of police carrying away a protester. Задерживали сегодня в том числе так pic.twitter.com/S8CmmtOmbb — Memorial (@MemorialMoscow) December 28, 2021 × The designation “foreign agent” is used on those organisations who receive funding from abroad. The memorial had been working to recover the memory of the millions of innocent people executed, imprisoned or persecuted in the Soviet era. In court, prosecutor Alexei Zhafyarov labelled the Memorial as “public threat” which was distorting history. He also accused the group of being in the pay of the West to focus attention on Soviet crimes instead of highlighting a “glorious past”. Judge Alla Nazarova ordered that the organisation be closed for “repeated and gross” violations of Russia’s foreign agent laws. Apart from that, various other organists run by the group, including Memorial International Historical, Educational, Charitable, and Human Rights Society, and “its regional branches and other structural units”, have been ordered to shut down. Genri Reznik, a lawyer who represented Memorial on Tuesday, told the Guardian that decision reeked of politics, adding that the hearing reminded him of the Soviet show trials of the 1930s. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian Supreme Court shuts down country’s oldest human rights group Memorial International

Russia will hold talks with North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) in Brussels on security guarantees after US-Russia talks in Geneva, said Russian news agency TASS. The news agency quoted Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov.

"Following the meeting in Geneva, the event is likely to be organized in Brussels with NATO, the arrangements and other details are being worked out," he said, as quoted by TASS.

Tensions are high between Russia and the West over Russian military buildup along its border with Ukraine. Although Russia maintains that it does not plan to invade Ukraine, it maintains that Ukraine's manoeuvres pose a threat to Russia. This is being seen as a reason Russia can potentially use to invade Ukraine.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-says-its-jets-scrambled-hundreds-of-times-against-russia-in-2021-to-guard-allies-airspace-440595">NATO says its jets scrambled hundreds of times against Russia in 2021 to guard allies’ airspace</a>

Russia is dead against Ukraine's inclusion in NATO grouping. Russia perceives such an inclusion to be a move against its influence in the region. Ukraine was part of Soviet Russia. Russia President Vladimir Putin has already said that inclusion of Ukraine in NATO is unacceptable. He was speaking at a press conference last week.

NATO on Tuesday (December 28) said that it had to scramble fighter jets hundreds of times this year to defend member-states' airspace from Russia.

The West-led military alliance said that 290 of around 370 total missions were flown in 2021 in response to the activities of Russian aircraft.

Russia will hold talks with North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) in Brussels on security guarantees after US-Russia talks in Geneva, said Russian news agency TASS.

Russia will hold talks with North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) in Brussels on security guarantees after US-Russia talks in Geneva, said Russian news agency TASS. The news agency quoted Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov. "Following the meeting in Geneva, the event is likely to be organized in Brussels with NATO, the arrangements and other details are being worked out," he said, as quoted by TASS. Tensions are high between Russia and the West over Russian military buildup along its border with Ukraine. Although Russia maintains that it does not plan to invade Ukraine, it maintains that Ukraine's manoeuvres pose a threat to Russia. This is being seen as a reason Russia can potentially use to invade Ukraine. Also Read | NATO says its jets scrambled hundreds of times against Russia in 2021 to guard allies’ airspace Russia is dead against Ukraine's inclusion in NATO grouping. Russia perceives such an inclusion to be a move against its influence in the region. Ukraine was part of Soviet Russia. Russia President Vladimir Putin has already said that inclusion of Ukraine in NATO is unacceptable. He was speaking at a press conference last week. NATO on Tuesday (December 28) said that it had to scramble fighter jets hundreds of times this year to defend member-states' airspace from Russia. The West-led military alliance said that 290 of around 370 total missions were flown in 2021 in response to the activities of Russian aircraft.

Russia-NATO talks to take place after Moscow-Washington huddle in Geneva: Report

The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) on Tuesday said that it had to scramble fighter jets hundreds of times this year to counter Russian warplanes near its member&nbsp;countries’ borders in northwest Europe.

The West-led military alliance said that 290 of around 370 total missions were flown in 2021 in response to the activities of Russian aircraft.

“Generally, intercepts occurred without incident as NATO planes take off to identify the approaching aircraft and escort it out of the area. Very few intercepted flights entered allied airspace,” a statement from NATO said.

NATO intercept flights are a routine occurrence. But despite high tensions between NATO and Moscow over the activities of Russian armed forces near Ukraine’s borders in recent months, the number of Russia-linked intercepts decreased this year, reported news agency AP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-warns-nato-against-inclusion-of-finland-sweden-440093">Russia warns NATO against inclusion of Finland, Sweden</a>

“NATO fighter jets are on duty around the clock, ready to take off in case of unverified flights near the airspace of our Allies,” said NATO spokesperson Oana Lungescu.

“NATO is vigilant, and we will always do what it takes to protect and defend all Allies.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-sends-proposal-to-hold-talks-with-russia-report-440216">NATO sends proposal to hold talks with Russia: Report</a>

Most of the intercepts in 2021 occurred in the Baltic region, where NATO operates an air-policing mission for Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. NATO has similar missions for Albania, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Slovenia.

“Across Europe, over 60 NATO jets are on high alert at all times, ready to respond to unannounced military flights, as well as to civilian aircraft losing communication with air-traffic controllers for any reason – which could range from technical problems to hijacking,” NATO said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) on Tuesday said that it had to scramble fighter jets hundreds of times this year to counter Russian warplanes near its member countries’ borders in northwest Europe.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) on Tuesday said that it had to scramble fighter jets hundreds of times this year to counter Russian warplanes near its member countries’ borders in northwest Europe. The West-led military alliance said that 290 of around 370 total missions were flown in 2021 in response to the activities of Russian aircraft. “Generally, intercepts occurred without incident as NATO planes take off to identify the approaching aircraft and escort it out of the area. Very few intercepted flights entered allied airspace,” a statement from NATO said. NATO intercept flights are a routine occurrence. But despite high tensions between NATO and Moscow over the activities of Russian armed forces near Ukraine’s borders in recent months, the number of Russia-linked intercepts decreased this year, reported news agency AP. Also read | Russia warns NATO against inclusion of Finland, Sweden “NATO fighter jets are on duty around the clock, ready to take off in case of unverified flights near the airspace of our Allies,” said NATO spokesperson Oana Lungescu. “NATO is vigilant, and we will always do what it takes to protect and defend all Allies.” Also read | NATO sends proposal to hold talks with Russia: Report Most of the intercepts in 2021 occurred in the Baltic region, where NATO operates an air-policing mission for Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. NATO has similar missions for Albania, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Slovenia. “Across Europe, over 60 NATO jets are on high alert at all times, ready to respond to unannounced military flights, as well as to civilian aircraft losing communication with air-traffic controllers for any reason – which could range from technical problems to hijacking,” NATO said. (With inputs from agencies)

NATO says its jets scrambled hundreds of times against Russia in 2021 to guard allies’ airspace

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Monday that Russian diplomats, along with military officials will take part in talks with the US next month. He said that talks will focus on list of security guarantees that Russia wants from the US. Lavrov made the comments in an interview. It was livestreamed on his ministry's website.

Lavrov said that the talks would take place immediately after Russia's new year holidays. January 10 is the first official day of working in new year in Russia.

West is alarmed over Russia's buildup of troops along Ukraine border. Though Russia says it will not invade Ukraine, it is constantly saying that it is facing threat from its neighbour. This is perceived by many as Russian attempts to create a pretext for inavsion.

Russia is fiercely opposed to Ukraine's inclusion in North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated this stance in media interaction few days ago.

On Sunday, it was reported by Russia's Tass news agency that the country was considering a proposal for dialogue it received from NATO. This proposal is separate from any that may pertain to Russian talks with the US. As per the report, NATO proposal suggested that the talks begin on January 12.

Last week, Russia unveiled its wish list of security proposals. The list includes demand that NATO give up any military activity in Eastern Europe and Ukraine.

The United States, the European Union and the Group of Seven have all warned Putin that he will face "massive consequences" including tough economic sanctions in the event of any new Russian aggression.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Monday that Russian diplomats, along with military officials will take part in talks with the US next month. He said that talks will focus on list of security guarantees that Russia wants from the US.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Monday that Russian diplomats, along with military officials will take part in talks with the US next month. He said that talks will focus on list of security guarantees that Russia wants from the US. Lavrov made the comments in an interview. It was livestreamed on his ministry's website. Lavrov said that the talks would take place immediately after Russia's new year holidays. January 10 is the first official day of working in new year in Russia. West is alarmed over Russia's buildup of troops along Ukraine border. Though Russia says it will not invade Ukraine, it is constantly saying that it is facing threat from its neighbour. This is perceived by many as Russian attempts to create a pretext for inavsion. Russia is fiercely opposed to Ukraine's inclusion in North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated this stance in media interaction few days ago. On Sunday, it was reported by Russia's Tass news agency that the country was considering a proposal for dialogue it received from NATO. This proposal is separate from any that may pertain to Russian talks with the US. As per the report, NATO proposal suggested that the talks begin on January 12. Last week, Russia unveiled its wish list of security proposals. The list includes demand that NATO give up any military activity in Eastern Europe and Ukraine. The United States, the European Union and the Group of Seven have all warned Putin that he will face "massive consequences" including tough economic sanctions in the event of any new Russian aggression. (With inputs from agencies)

US-Russia talks to begin next month: Lavrov

Russia is considering a NATO proposal to talk over its security concerns, said TASS news agency as it quoted Russian foreign ministry on Sunday. Currently, tension between Russia and Ukraine has western world on the edge. Russia has beefed up its military presence along its border with Ukraine.

Last week, Russia unveiled its wish list of security proposals. The list includes demand that NATO give up any military activity in Eastern Europe and Ukraine.

"We have already received this (NATO) offer, and we are considering it," TASS quoted the foreign ministry as saying.

The United States and Ukraine say Russia may be preparing an invasion of its ex-Soviet neighbour. Russia denies that and says it is Ukraine`s growing relationship with NATO that has caused the standoff to escalate. It has compared it to the 1962 Cuban missile crisis, when the world came to the brink of nuclear war.

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President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday Russia wanted to avoid conflict but needed an "immediate" response from the United States and its allies to its demands for security guarantees. Moscow has said it expects talks with U.S. officials on the subject to start in January in Geneva.

U.S. President Joe Biden`s administration has said some of Russia`s security proposals are obviously unacceptable, but that Washington will respond with more concrete ideas on the format of any talks.

In an interview on CBS` "Face The Nation" television show, Vice President Kamala Harris said Washington has been in direct conversations with Moscow about the issue and reiterated the U.S. commitment to Ukraine`s territorial integrity.

"We`ve been very clear that we are prepared to issue sanctions like you`ve not seen before," Harris said, but declined to elaborate on the specifics of the sanctions. 
The United States, the European Union and the Group of Seven have all warned Putin that he will face "massive consequences" including tough economic sanctions in the event of any new Russian aggression.

The Kremlin`s demands contain elements - such as an effective Russian veto on future NATO membership for Ukraine - that the West has already ruled out.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia is considering a NATO proposal to talk over its security concerns, said TASS news agency as it quoted Russian foreign ministry on Sunday. Currently, tension between Russia and Ukraine has western world on the edge.

Russia is considering a NATO proposal to talk over its security concerns, said TASS news agency as it quoted Russian foreign ministry on Sunday. Currently, tension between Russia and Ukraine has western world on the edge. Russia has beefed up its military presence along its border with Ukraine. Last week, Russia unveiled its wish list of security proposals. The list includes demand that NATO give up any military activity in Eastern Europe and Ukraine. "We have already received this (NATO) offer, and we are considering it," TASS quoted the foreign ministry as saying. The United States and Ukraine say Russia may be preparing an invasion of its ex-Soviet neighbour. Russia denies that and says it is Ukraine`s growing relationship with NATO that has caused the standoff to escalate. It has compared it to the 1962 Cuban missile crisis, when the world came to the brink of nuclear war. Also Read | Russia warns NATO against inclusion of Finland, Sweden President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday Russia wanted to avoid conflict but needed an "immediate" response from the United States and its allies to its demands for security guarantees. Moscow has said it expects talks with U.S. officials on the subject to start in January in Geneva. U.S. President Joe Biden`s administration has said some of Russia`s security proposals are obviously unacceptable, but that Washington will respond with more concrete ideas on the format of any talks. In an interview on CBS` "Face The Nation" television show, Vice President Kamala Harris said Washington has been in direct conversations with Moscow about the issue and reiterated the U.S. commitment to Ukraine`s territorial integrity. "We`ve been very clear that we are prepared to issue sanctions like you`ve not seen before," Harris said, but declined to elaborate on the specifics of the sanctions. The United States, the European Union and the Group of Seven have all warned Putin that he will face "massive consequences" including tough economic sanctions in the event of any new Russian aggression. The Kremlin`s demands contain elements - such as an effective Russian veto on future NATO membership for Ukraine - that the West has already ruled out. (With inputs from agencies)

NATO sends proposal to hold talks with Russia: Report

Russia's state-run energy giant Gazprom on Saturday (local time) rejected allegations of Russia limiting gas supply to Europe. The company&nbsp;criticised Germany's resale of gas to Poland.

Earlier this week, Poland accused Moscow of stopping gas supply deliveries via Yamal-Europe pipeline. The pipeline sends Russian gas to Western Europe. Poland accused Garprom of 'manipulation'.

The pipeline was operating in reverse mode this week, sending gas from Germany to Poland, public data showed, as European gas prices ticked up.

President Vladimir Putin on Friday denied that the flow direction was a political move and said that Poland had "sidelined" Russia in managing the pipeline.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-warns-nato-against-inclusion-of-finland-sweden-440093">Russia warns NATO against inclusion of Finland, Sweden</a>

"All accusations against Russia and Gazprom that we are not supplying enough gas to the European market are absolutely groundless and unacceptable and untrue," Gazprom spokesman Sergei Kupriyanov said late Saturday, calling the accusations "lies".&nbsp;

He said some buyers of Russian gas, in particular Germany and France, have not made additional orders, and slammed the reverse flow of gas that came as "winter is just beginning" as "not the most rational decision."&nbsp;

"I don't even want to talk about the price of such reverse supplies. These prices are significantly higher than the prices for contract volumes set by Gazprom, he said in an interview on state television.

"All problems in Western Europe have been created by themselves and there is no need to blame Gazprom for this. It is better to look in the mirror."&nbsp;

Western countries have for weeks accused Russia of limiting gas deliveries to put pressure on Europe amid tensions over the Ukraine conflict and to push through the controversial Nord Stream 2 pipeline set to ship Russian gas to Germany.

Germany's energy ministry, for its part, on Sunday poured cold water on accusations of Russia withholding deliveries.&nbsp;

"Long-term supply contracts, including the Russian ones, are being adhered to and the long-term quantities of gas are arriving in Germany," the ministry told AFP.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia's state-run energy giant Gazprom on Saturday (local time) rejected allegations of Russia limiting gas supply to Europe. The company criticised Germany's resale of gas to Poland.

Russia's state-run energy giant Gazprom on Saturday (local time) rejected allegations of Russia limiting gas supply to Europe. The company criticised Germany's resale of gas to Poland. Earlier this week, Poland accused Moscow of stopping gas supply deliveries via Yamal-Europe pipeline. The pipeline sends Russian gas to Western Europe. Poland accused Garprom of 'manipulation'. The pipeline was operating in reverse mode this week, sending gas from Germany to Poland, public data showed, as European gas prices ticked up. President Vladimir Putin on Friday denied that the flow direction was a political move and said that Poland had "sidelined" Russia in managing the pipeline. Also Read | Russia warns NATO against inclusion of Finland, Sweden "All accusations against Russia and Gazprom that we are not supplying enough gas to the European market are absolutely groundless and unacceptable and untrue," Gazprom spokesman Sergei Kupriyanov said late Saturday, calling the accusations "lies". He said some buyers of Russian gas, in particular Germany and France, have not made additional orders, and slammed the reverse flow of gas that came as "winter is just beginning" as "not the most rational decision." "I don't even want to talk about the price of such reverse supplies. These prices are significantly higher than the prices for contract volumes set by Gazprom, he said in an interview on state television. "All problems in Western Europe have been created by themselves and there is no need to blame Gazprom for this. It is better to look in the mirror." Western countries have for weeks accused Russia of limiting gas deliveries to put pressure on Europe amid tensions over the Ukraine conflict and to push through the controversial Nord Stream 2 pipeline set to ship Russian gas to Germany. Germany's energy ministry, for its part, on Sunday poured cold water on accusations of Russia withholding deliveries. "Long-term supply contracts, including the Russian ones, are being adhered to and the long-term quantities of gas are arriving in Germany," the ministry told AFP. (With inputs from agencies)

Not withholding gas supplies to Europe, says Russia

Russia's foreign ministry has warned against the inclusion of Finland and Sweden in the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO).

According to Maria Zakharova, the ministry’s spokeswoman, ''The persistent attempts by NATO to draw those countries into the orbit of its interests and opportunistic policies haven’t gone unnoticed by Russia.''

“It’s quite obvious that Finland and Sweden joining NATO … would have serious military and political consequences that would require an adequate response from the Russian side,” she highlighted.

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''The policy of not being part of any alliances, traditionally pursued by Stockholm and Helsinki, is viewed by Moscow as an important factor in ensuring stability in northern Europe,'' Zakharova added.

It comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin had said NATO had "brazenly tricked" the country with successive waves of expansion since the Cold War.

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Moscow says the expansion of NATO threatens Russia and has contravened assurances given to it as the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991.

It has presented the West with sweeping security demands, saying NATO must not admit new members and seeking to bar the United States from establishing new bases in former Soviet republics.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-cannot-dictate-to-nato-says-germany-438184">Also read |&nbsp;Russia cannot 'dictate' to NATO, says Germany</a>

Speaking about Moscow’s proposals, Zakharova reiterated that ''ruling out the expansion of NATO and the deployment of weapon systems that threaten our security near the Russian borders are going to be the main, key issues at the upcoming talks with the US and NATO.''

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday to discuss concerns about Russia’s military build-up on the borders of Ukraine, the US State Department said.

"They discussed NATO’s dual-track approach to Russia, noting the alliance remains ready for meaningful dialogue with Russia while standing united to defend and protect allies," the State Department said on Thursday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia's foreign ministry has warned against the inclusion of Finland and Sweden in the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). According to Maria Zakharova, the ministry’s spokeswoman, ''The persistent attempts by NATO to draw those countries into the orbit of its interests and opportunistic policies haven’t gone unnoticed by Russia.

Russia's foreign ministry has warned against the inclusion of Finland and Sweden in the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). According to Maria Zakharova, the ministry’s spokeswoman, ''The persistent attempts by NATO to draw those countries into the orbit of its interests and opportunistic policies haven’t gone unnoticed by Russia.'' “It’s quite obvious that Finland and Sweden joining NATO … would have serious military and political consequences that would require an adequate response from the Russian side,” she highlighted. ''The policy of not being part of any alliances, traditionally pursued by Stockholm and Helsinki, is viewed by Moscow as an important factor in ensuring stability in northern Europe,'' Zakharova added. It comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin had said NATO had "brazenly tricked" the country with successive waves of expansion since the Cold War. Also see | Rebel-held regions of eastern Ukraine are growing closer to Russia Moscow says the expansion of NATO threatens Russia and has contravened assurances given to it as the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991. It has presented the West with sweeping security demands, saying NATO must not admit new members and seeking to bar the United States from establishing new bases in former Soviet republics. Also read | Russia cannot 'dictate' to NATO, says Germany Speaking about Moscow’s proposals, Zakharova reiterated that ''ruling out the expansion of NATO and the deployment of weapon systems that threaten our security near the Russian borders are going to be the main, key issues at the upcoming talks with the US and NATO.'' US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday to discuss concerns about Russia’s military build-up on the borders of Ukraine, the US State Department said. "They discussed NATO’s dual-track approach to Russia, noting the alliance remains ready for meaningful dialogue with Russia while standing united to defend and protect allies," the State Department said on Thursday. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia warns NATO against inclusion of Finland, Sweden

A day after imposing massive fines on Meta and Goggle over failure to delete illegal content, Russia has now blocked the website of the OVD-Info protest-monitoring group after the court ruling. The group has documented anti-Kremlin protests for years.&nbsp;

For the unversed, OVD-Info is an independent Russian human rights media project aimed at combating political persecution. However, Russia is on a spree to crackdown on dissent.&nbsp;

On Saturday (December 25), OVD-Info said that Russia's communication watchdog had blocked its website earlier this week. The monitoring group is also known for providing legal support to victims of political persecution.&nbsp;

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While informing the ruling, the group tweeted, "At the moment, we have not received a notice and do not know the reason for being blocked."

It is important to note that a Roskomnadzor registry of blocked websites showed that a Moscow region court had issued a ruling dated December 20 to "limit" access to the site.&nbsp;

However, later Saturday, Russian news agencies cited Roskomnadzor as confirming that it had blocked OVD-Info's website, as reported by AFP.&nbsp;

The Moscow region court had ruled that the group's activities were aimed at promoting "terrorism and extremism" in Russia.

Roskomnadzor added that it had sent "demands" to social media networks to "delete the organisation's accounts".

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Meta and Google fined

Meta, formerly known as Facebook, has been slapped with a massive fine on Friday (December 24) by a Moscow court for failing to remove content that is deemed illegal.&nbsp;

The court's press service revealed on a messaging app Telegram that Meta has been fined $27 million. The court also informed that it has imposed a fine of $98 million on Google.&nbsp;

A day after imposing massive fines on Meta and Goggle over failure to delete illegal content, Russia has now blocked the website of the OVD-Info protest-monitoring group after the court ruling.

A day after imposing massive fines on Meta and Goggle over failure to delete illegal content, Russia has now blocked the website of the OVD-Info protest-monitoring group after the court ruling. The group has documented anti-Kremlin protests for years. For the unversed, OVD-Info is an independent Russian human rights media project aimed at combating political persecution. However, Russia is on a spree to crackdown on dissent. On Saturday (December 25), OVD-Info said that Russia's communication watchdog had blocked its website earlier this week. The monitoring group is also known for providing legal support to victims of political persecution. ALSO READ | Russian President Vladimir Putin says Western diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics is a mistake While informing the ruling, the group tweeted, "At the moment, we have not received a notice and do not know the reason for being blocked." It is important to note that a Roskomnadzor registry of blocked websites showed that a Moscow region court had issued a ruling dated December 20 to "limit" access to the site. However, later Saturday, Russian news agencies cited Roskomnadzor as confirming that it had blocked OVD-Info's website, as reported by AFP. The Moscow region court had ruled that the group's activities were aimed at promoting "terrorism and extremism" in Russia. Roskomnadzor added that it had sent "demands" to social media networks to "delete the organisation's accounts". ALSO READ | Amid row with Ukraine, Russia tests Tsirkon hypersonic missile system Meta and Google fined Meta, formerly known as Facebook, has been slapped with a massive fine on Friday (December 24) by a Moscow court for failing to remove content that is deemed illegal. The court's press service revealed on a messaging app Telegram that Meta has been fined $27 million. The court also informed that it has imposed a fine of $98 million on Google.

Russia blocks website of protest monitoring group for allegedly promoting 'terrorism and extremism'

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (December 20) held a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin and&nbsp;the two leaders discussed enhancing India-Russia cooperation.&nbsp;

It was a follow-up of&nbsp;bilateral discussions between India and Russia&nbsp;after Putin's visit&nbsp;on December 6, when PM Modi hosted him in the Indian capital Delhi for the 21st annual India-Russia Summit.&nbsp;

The Indian prime minister informed about the telephonic call on his official Twitter account as he wrote, "Spoke with my friend, President Putin, to follow up on our discussions during his recent visit to India."

"We agreed on the way forward for enhancing India-Russia cooperation, including in supply of fertilizers. We also discussed recent international developments," PM Modi added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/key-takeaways-of-modi-putin-summit-anti-terror-fight-covid-19-s-400-deal-434710">Key takeaways of Modi-Putin summit: Anti-terror fight, COVID-19, S-400 deal</a>

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Spoke with my friend, President Putin, to follow up on our discussions during his recent visit to India. We agreed on the way forward for enhancing India-Russia cooperation, including in supply of fertilizers. We also discussed recent international developments. <a href="https://twitter.com/KremlinRussia_E?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KremlinRussia_E</a>
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Also, the office of the Russian President informed that both the leaders exchanged views on the situation in the "Asia-Pacific" region, adding that they also discussed practical aspects of implementing the agreements finalised during Putin's visit to India.

"Vladimir Putin warmly thanked Narendra Modi for the hospitality extended to the Russian delegation during the high-level visit to New Delhi on December 6," Kremlin said in a statement.&nbsp;

"A mutual disposition was expressed for the further all-round development of relations of a particularly privileged strategic partnership between Russia and India," the statement added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gift-from-gujarat-pm-narendra-modi-gives-exquisite-agate-bowls-to-russian-president-vladimir-putin-434688">Gift from Gujarat: PM Narendra Modi gives exquisite Agate Bowls to Russian President Vladimir Putin</a>

A Russian official as quoted by PTI said, "They discussed practical aspects of implementing the agreements reached at the talks and expressed mutual intent for the further multifaceted development of relations of the special and privileged strategic partnership between Russia and India."

Both the leaders also congratulated each other for the upcoming New Year holidays and also agreed to intensify bilateral contacts in various areas.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (December 20) held a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin and the two leaders discussed enhancing India-Russia cooperation.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (December 20) held a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin and the two leaders discussed enhancing India-Russia cooperation. It was a follow-up of bilateral discussions between India and Russia after Putin's visit on December 6, when PM Modi hosted him in the Indian capital Delhi for the 21st annual India-Russia Summit. The Indian prime minister informed about the telephonic call on his official Twitter account as he wrote, "Spoke with my friend, President Putin, to follow up on our discussions during his recent visit to India." "We agreed on the way forward for enhancing India-Russia cooperation, including in supply of fertilizers. We also discussed recent international developments," PM Modi added. ALSO READ | Key takeaways of Modi-Putin summit: Anti-terror fight, COVID-19, S-400 deal Spoke with my friend, President Putin, to follow up on our discussions during his recent visit to India. We agreed on the way forward for enhancing India-Russia cooperation, including in supply of fertilizers. We also discussed recent international developments. @KremlinRussia_E — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 20, 2021 × Also, the office of the Russian President informed that both the leaders exchanged views on the situation in the "Asia-Pacific" region, adding that they also discussed practical aspects of implementing the agreements finalised during Putin's visit to India. "Vladimir Putin warmly thanked Narendra Modi for the hospitality extended to the Russian delegation during the high-level visit to New Delhi on December 6," Kremlin said in a statement. "A mutual disposition was expressed for the further all-round development of relations of a particularly privileged strategic partnership between Russia and India," the statement added. ALSO READ | Gift from Gujarat: PM Narendra Modi gives exquisite Agate Bowls to Russian President Vladimir Putin A Russian official as quoted by PTI said, "They discussed practical aspects of implementing the agreements reached at the talks and expressed mutual intent for the further multifaceted development of relations of the special and privileged strategic partnership between Russia and India." Both the leaders also congratulated each other for the upcoming New Year holidays and also agreed to intensify bilateral contacts in various areas.

Indian PM Modi, Russian President Putin speak on phone about developing bilateral ties

In a major boost to the country`s air defence capabilities, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is deploying the first squadron of the S-400 air defence missile system in the western Punjab sector.

"The first squadron is being deployed in the Punjab sector. The batteries of the first squadron would be capable of taking care of aerial threats from both Pakistan and China," government sources told ANI.

Parts of the Russian missile system had started reaching India earlier this month and the unit is expected to be operationalized in the next few weeks, they said.

The S-400 air defence system was contracted for by India in a deal worth around Rs 35,000 crore and five squadrons would be provided to India for tacking air threats from up to 400 km.

The first squadron deliveries are expected to be complete by the end of this year. Sources said the equipment is being brought to India through both sea and air routes.

Sources said after the first squadron is deployed, the Air Force would start focusing on the Eastern borders along with providing resources for training of personnel within the country. Indian Air Force officers and personnel have trained in Russia on the system.

The air defence system would give India an edge in South Asian skies as they would be able to take out enemy aircraft and cruise missiles from a 400 km distance.

The S-400 missile defence system is equipped with four different missiles which can engage enemy aircraft, ballistic missiles, and AWACS planes at 400 km, 250 km, the medium-range 120 km and the short-range 40 km.

Due to tough bargaining and negotiations, India managed to bring down the S-400 price by almost a billion dollars, sources said.&nbsp;

In a major boost to the country`s air defence capabilities, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is deploying the first squadron of the S-400 air defence missile system in the western Punjab sector.

In a major boost to the country`s air defence capabilities, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is deploying the first squadron of the S-400 air defence missile system in the western Punjab sector. "The first squadron is being deployed in the Punjab sector. The batteries of the first squadron would be capable of taking care of aerial threats from both Pakistan and China," government sources told ANI. Parts of the Russian missile system had started reaching India earlier this month and the unit is expected to be operationalized in the next few weeks, they said. The S-400 air defence system was contracted for by India in a deal worth around Rs 35,000 crore and five squadrons would be provided to India for tacking air threats from up to 400 km. The first squadron deliveries are expected to be complete by the end of this year. Sources said the equipment is being brought to India through both sea and air routes. Sources said after the first squadron is deployed, the Air Force would start focusing on the Eastern borders along with providing resources for training of personnel within the country. Indian Air Force officers and personnel have trained in Russia on the system. The air defence system would give India an edge in South Asian skies as they would be able to take out enemy aircraft and cruise missiles from a 400 km distance. The S-400 missile defence system is equipped with four different missiles which can engage enemy aircraft, ballistic missiles, and AWACS planes at 400 km, 250 km, the medium-range 120 km and the short-range 40 km. Due to tough bargaining and negotiations, India managed to bring down the S-400 price by almost a billion dollars, sources said.

India deploys first S-400 air defence system in Punjab sector, to take care of aerial threats from China, Pak

Germany came out strongly against Russia on Sunday and said that Moscow could not 'dictate' to Russia. German Defence Minister Christine Lambrecht's statement came even as tensions are high between Russia and the West over conflict in Ukraine.

Lambrecht spoke during a visit to Lithuania.

"We have to resolve the tense situation we are in now both diplomatically and with credible deterrence," Lambrecht told reporters.

"We have to talk with each other, which means discussing the proposals that Russia has put forward. That is right and important," she added at Lithuania's Rukla military base.

"But it cannot be that Russia dictates to NATO partners how they position themselves."

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Lithuania, along with its Baltic neighbours Estonia and Latvia is worried about security after Russia's deployment of troops along the border with Ukraine. All of these countries were part of erstwhile Soviet Russia.

The trip is Lambrecht's first since being named defence minister, after new German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Social Democrats formed a coalition government with the Greens and the liberal FDP earlier this month.

Lambrecht met with her Lithuanian counterpart Arvydas Anusauskas, who said that "Russia has mobilised forces in the Kaliningrad region that are ten times larger than the battalion deployed in Rukla."

"In this situation, Russia's demands that weaken the security of our countries are simply impossible to implement. I think they need to be rejected," he told reporters.

Around 550 German troops are stationed at Lithuania's Rukla military base as Germany leads the multinational battalion in the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

Germany came out strongly against Russia on Sunday and said that Moscow could not 'dictate' to Russia. German Defence Minister Christine Lambrecht's statement came even as tensions are high between Russia and the West over conflict in Ukraine.

Germany came out strongly against Russia on Sunday and said that Moscow could not 'dictate' to Russia. German Defence Minister Christine Lambrecht's statement came even as tensions are high between Russia and the West over conflict in Ukraine. Lambrecht spoke during a visit to Lithuania. "We have to resolve the tense situation we are in now both diplomatically and with credible deterrence," Lambrecht told reporters. "We have to talk with each other, which means discussing the proposals that Russia has put forward. That is right and important," she added at Lithuania's Rukla military base. "But it cannot be that Russia dictates to NATO partners how they position themselves." Also Read | Defense contractor tried to give classified information to Russia, US says Lithuania, along with its Baltic neighbours Estonia and Latvia is worried about security after Russia's deployment of troops along the border with Ukraine. All of these countries were part of erstwhile Soviet Russia. The trip is Lambrecht's first since being named defence minister, after new German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Social Democrats formed a coalition government with the Greens and the liberal FDP earlier this month. Lambrecht met with her Lithuanian counterpart Arvydas Anusauskas, who said that "Russia has mobilised forces in the Kaliningrad region that are ten times larger than the battalion deployed in Rukla." "In this situation, Russia's demands that weaken the security of our countries are simply impossible to implement. I think they need to be rejected," he told reporters. Around 550 German troops are stationed at Lithuania's Rukla military base as Germany leads the multinational battalion in the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia cannot 'dictate' to NATO, says Germany

Facebook has paid USD 229,643 in fines in Russia over content Moscow deemed illegal, Interfax news agency has reported. There is looming threat of larger fines over the tech giant.

Meta and Alphabet, parent companies of Facebook and Google respectively face a court case next week. &nbsp;They face allegations of violation of Russian legislation. A fine equal to their annual revenue in Russia may be imposed.

Reuters said that Facebook did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Sunday.

Russia in October sent state bailiffs to enforce the collection of 17 million roubles in fines imposed on Facebook. Interfax said there were no more enforcement proceedings against the company as of Sunday, citing the federal bailiff service's database.

Moscow has increased pressure on large tech firms this year in a campaign that critics characterise as an attempt by the Russian authorities to exert tighter control over the internet, something they say threatens to stifle individual and corporate freedom.

Interfax said messaging app Telegram has also paid 15 million roubles in fines.

Telegram did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

(With inputs from agencies)

Facebook has paid USD 229,643 in fines in Russia over content Moscow deemed illegal, Interfax news agency has reported. There is looming threat of larger fines over the tech giant.

Facebook has paid USD 229,643 in fines in Russia over content Moscow deemed illegal, Interfax news agency has reported. There is looming threat of larger fines over the tech giant. Meta and Alphabet, parent companies of Facebook and Google respectively face a court case next week. They face allegations of violation of Russian legislation. A fine equal to their annual revenue in Russia may be imposed. Reuters said that Facebook did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Sunday. Russia in October sent state bailiffs to enforce the collection of 17 million roubles in fines imposed on Facebook. Interfax said there were no more enforcement proceedings against the company as of Sunday, citing the federal bailiff service's database. Moscow has increased pressure on large tech firms this year in a campaign that critics characterise as an attempt by the Russian authorities to exert tighter control over the internet, something they say threatens to stifle individual and corporate freedom. Interfax said messaging app Telegram has also paid 15 million roubles in fines. Telegram did not immediately respond to a request for comment. (With inputs from agencies)

Facebook pays fine in Russia over content deemed illegal

From updates on the Russia-Ukraine situation to the latest on COVID-19 cases worldwide. Also read why Tesla has been hit by a lawsuit. And do not miss our explainer on what is Russia's draft treaty on security guarantees. Clicks on the links to read the full report

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-kamala-harris-admits-biden-admin-failed-to-see-omicron-variant-coming-437918">US Vice President Kamala Harris admits Biden admin ‘failed to see Omicron variant coming’</a> 
US Vice President Kamala Harris has acknowledged that the Biden administration couldn’t anticipate the emergence of variants like Omicron and Delta. Speaking to Los Angeles Times newspaper on the Covid situation in the country, Harris on Friday said, “We didn't see Delta coming…We didn't see Omicron coming. And that's the nature of what this, this awful virus has been, which as it turns out, has mutations and variants.”

<img alt="Kamala Harris" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="00a4b064-2ed2-4e30-851b-170de7b8dc8d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kamala%20Harris_0.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-ukraine-crisis-kremlin-says-tensions-between-russia-and-us-not-at-lowest-point-yet-437956">Amid Ukraine crisis, Kremlin says tensions between Russia and US not at lowest point yet</a> 
Despite tensions simmering between the US-led NATO allies and Russia over Ukraine, Moscow believes that their relations with Washington are not at their lowest point yet. According to Interfax news agency, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov on Saturday said that Kremlin needed stable and predictable relations with Washington.&nbsp;

<img alt="Russia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="28bc38b4-05da-4846-b153-4c0c37a047c1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Russia%20%283%29.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-at-least-14-people-dead-several-injured-in-powerful-gas-explosion-in-karachi-437932">Pakistan: At least 14 people dead, several injured in powerful gas explosion in Karachi</a> 
At least fourteen people were killed and several others were injured in a powerful gas explosion in Pakistan's Sindh province on Saturday (December 18) as reported by DAWN, citing a statement issued by Sindh Home Department Secretary Qazi Shahid Pervaiz. The blast took place near Karachi's Paracha Chowk in the Shershah area.&nbsp;

<img alt="Pakistan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e9da4367-4f4a-41d1-ac9d-a3c61c3f0fa2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Karachi%20%282%29.jpg" />

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Russia submitted a draft document on legal security guarantees to the Biden administration to "ensure the security of the Russian Federation and member states of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO)." The Russian foreign ministry said it "provided detailed explanations regarding the logic of the Russian approach."

<img alt="Russia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c2b8bfa4-afb3-4c9a-98df-c7091f06f275" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Russia%20%284%29.jpg" />

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Electric car producer Tesla has been hit by a lawsuit because of tweets by CEO Elon Musk. Famous for making eye-popping statements on social media, Musk had asked in a poll on Twitter if people thought he should sell 10 percent of his stake in Tesla.&nbsp;

<img alt="Elon Musk" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d9aef695-74ef-4b69-9ea6-839a3aec44a8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Elon%20Musk%20%282%29_0.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-aircraft-carrier-enters-pacific-amid-tensions-with-taiwan-437904">Chinese aircraft carrier enters Pacific amid tensions with Taiwan</a> 
According to reports, China sent an aircraft carrier battle group through the Pacific Ocean amid tensions with Taiwan. Japan's defence ministry had said China had sent the Liaoning aircraft carrier along with Nanchang destroyer including a supply ship.

<img alt="Pacific Ocean" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="78aa0496-a19c-4201-989c-4dc9100d74f4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Pacific%20Ocean.jpg" />

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The world has already faced the lethal Delta variant and is currently facing the latest Omicron variant, which is quite new for the scientists to understand its nature and mutations. But what if the Delta and Omicron variants combine? Will it create a super strain of COVID-19?&nbsp;

<img alt="COVID-19" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72cc4291-92cd-4456-afd4-0baac3b719e5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Omicron%20Variant%20%282%29.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-introduces-drastic-changes-in-hong-kongs-election-437988">China introduces drastic changes in Hong Kong's election</a> 
China has introduced drastic changes in elections for Hong Kong’s Legislative Council. Voters in the Chinese finance hub will pick new lawmakers under rules that have cut the number of directly elected seats in the legislature to 20 from a total of 90 seats.

<img alt="China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e7db8685-8509-4dfd-97ef-77103bf5c24c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/China_2.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-cabinet-secretary-simon-case-distances-himself-from-christmas-party-investigation-437958">UK Cabinet Secretary Simon Case distances himself from Christmas party investigation</a> 
UK Cabinet Secretary Simon Case has removed himself from the role of the head of the committee that is probing the alleged claims of parties held in Downing Street during last Christmas. "To ensure the ongoing investigation retains public confidence the cabinet secretary has recused himself for the remainder of the process," said a statement from the office.

<img alt="Simon Case" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ba543c10-2717-4bca-81de-f3a61146d9a0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Simon%20Case.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/49-year-old-italian-man-nabbed-with-1-mn-child-pornography-files-437959">49-year-old Italian man nabbed with 1 mn child pornography files</a> 
In a bizarre incident, a 49-year-old man has been arrested by Italian police on Saturday for possession of over one million files of child pornography. The man, who is a musician in the coastal city of Ancona in Italy's Marche region, had numerous photographs and videos, depicting children in objectionable acts with adults. &nbsp;

<img alt="Italy" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73867dfb-7155-48d5-a225-37a033409dbe" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Italy.jpg" />

From updates on the Russia-Ukraine situation to the latest on COVID-19 cases worldwide. Also read why Tesla has been hit by a lawsuit. And do not miss our explainer on what is Russia's draft treaty on security guarantees.

From updates on the Russia-Ukraine situation to the latest on COVID-19 cases worldwide. Also read why Tesla has been hit by a lawsuit. And do not miss our explainer on what is Russia's draft treaty on security guarantees. Clicks on the links to read the full report US Vice President Kamala Harris admits Biden admin ‘failed to see Omicron variant coming’ US Vice President Kamala Harris has acknowledged that the Biden administration couldn’t anticipate the emergence of variants like Omicron and Delta. Speaking to Los Angeles Times newspaper on the Covid situation in the country, Harris on Friday said, “We didn't see Delta coming…We didn't see Omicron coming. And that's the nature of what this, this awful virus has been, which as it turns out, has mutations and variants.” Amid Ukraine crisis, Kremlin says tensions between Russia and US not at lowest point yet Despite tensions simmering between the US-led NATO allies and Russia over Ukraine, Moscow believes that their relations with Washington are not at their lowest point yet. According to Interfax news agency, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov on Saturday said that Kremlin needed stable and predictable relations with Washington. Pakistan: At least 14 people dead, several injured in powerful gas explosion in Karachi At least fourteen people were killed and several others were injured in a powerful gas explosion in Pakistan's Sindh province on Saturday (December 18) as reported by DAWN, citing a statement issued by Sindh Home Department Secretary Qazi Shahid Pervaiz. The blast took place near Karachi's Paracha Chowk in the Shershah area. Explainer: Putin's red line-What is Russia's draft treaty on security guarantees? Russia submitted a draft document on legal security guarantees to the Biden administration to "ensure the security of the Russian Federation and member states of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO)." The Russian foreign ministry said it "provided detailed explanations regarding the logic of the Russian approach." Electric car making company Tesla hit by lawsuit over tweets by CEO Elon Musk Electric car producer Tesla has been hit by a lawsuit because of tweets by CEO Elon Musk. Famous for making eye-popping statements on social media, Musk had asked in a poll on Twitter if people thought he should sell 10 percent of his stake in Tesla. Chinese aircraft carrier enters Pacific amid tensions with Taiwan According to reports, China sent an aircraft carrier battle group through the Pacific Ocean amid tensions with Taiwan. Japan's defence ministry had said China had sent the Liaoning aircraft carrier along with Nanchang destroyer including a supply ship. Can Omicron and Delta unite to create an even worse COVID-19 variant? Expert has the answer The world has already faced the lethal Delta variant and is currently facing the latest Omicron variant, which is quite new for the scientists to understand its nature and mutations. But what if the Delta and Omicron variants combine? Will it create a super strain of COVID-19? China introduces drastic changes in Hong Kong's election China has introduced drastic changes in elections for Hong Kong’s Legislative Council. Voters in the Chinese finance hub will pick new lawmakers under rules that have cut the number of directly elected seats in the legislature to 20 from a total of 90 seats. UK Cabinet Secretary Simon Case distances himself from Christmas party investigation UK Cabinet Secretary Simon Case has removed himself from the role of the head of the committee that is probing the alleged claims of parties held in Downing Street during last Christmas. "To ensure the ongoing investigation retains public confidence the cabinet secretary has recused himself for the remainder of the process," said a statement from the office. 49-year-old Italian man nabbed with 1 mn child pornography files In a bizarre incident, a 49-year-old man has been arrested by Italian police on Saturday for possession of over one million files of child pornography. The man, who is a musician in the coastal city of Ancona in Italy's Marche region, had numerous photographs and videos, depicting children in objectionable acts with adults.

Top 10 World News: Biden admin 'failed to see' Omicron variant, Kremlin on Russia-US tensions

A Ukrainian soldier deployed to the frontline in country's east said on Wednesday that he didn't think that Russians would invade Ukraine. Soldiers said they remained calm but were ready for worst case scenario.

Serviceman Serhiy, who serves in the village of Travneve in the Donetsk region, told Reuters he doubts the Russians will invade Ukrainian territory.

Serhiy's fellow soldier, who identified himself by nom-de-guerre Camomile, said the army is ready to repel any attack.

A senior Ukrainian security official said on Wednesday that Russia has made no move to withdraw troops it has amassed at the border with Ukraine but there is no sign that a Russian invasion is imminent.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-rejects-russian-attempts-to-thwart-ukraines-nato-ambitions-437531">West rejects Russian attempts to thwart Ukraine's NATO ambitions</a>

Oleksiy Danilov, Secretary of Ukraine's Security and Defence Council, told Reuters in an interview that Russia had 92,000 troops at the frontier but would need many more if it were to invade Ukraine.

Russia says it suspects Ukraine of gearing up to take back the breakaway regions by force, which Kyiv in turn denies.

Ukrainian government forces have been fighting Russian-backed separatists since 2014.

Ukraine and the West have periodically accused Moscow, despite its denials, of sending weapons and servicemen to support the separatists.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Ukrainian soldier deployed to the frontline in country's east said on Wednesday that he didn't think that Russians would invade Ukraine. Soldiers said they remained calm but were ready for worst case scenario.

A Ukrainian soldier deployed to the frontline in country's east said on Wednesday that he didn't think that Russians would invade Ukraine. Soldiers said they remained calm but were ready for worst case scenario. Serviceman Serhiy, who serves in the village of Travneve in the Donetsk region, told Reuters he doubts the Russians will invade Ukrainian territory. Serhiy's fellow soldier, who identified himself by nom-de-guerre Camomile, said the army is ready to repel any attack. A senior Ukrainian security official said on Wednesday that Russia has made no move to withdraw troops it has amassed at the border with Ukraine but there is no sign that a Russian invasion is imminent. Also Read | West rejects Russian attempts to thwart Ukraine's NATO ambitions Oleksiy Danilov, Secretary of Ukraine's Security and Defence Council, told Reuters in an interview that Russia had 92,000 troops at the frontier but would need many more if it were to invade Ukraine. Russia says it suspects Ukraine of gearing up to take back the breakaway regions by force, which Kyiv in turn denies. Ukrainian government forces have been fighting Russian-backed separatists since 2014. Ukraine and the West have periodically accused Moscow, despite its denials, of sending weapons and servicemen to support the separatists. (With inputs from agencies)

Unlikely that Russians will advance, says Ukrainian soldier in east

Close on the heels of Putin's foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov mentioning about Russia, India and China summit at leaders level in the near future, the Russian envoy in Delhi has stated that the summit can happen "in near future. This is my professional and personal expectations" with preference for in-person meet.

In response to a WION question, Russian envoy Nikolay Kudashev, said, "The recent Russian Indian summit in New Delhi on December 6 was very successful. Multiple issues were raised. Receiving inputs from Moscow, coming from the Presidential inner circle, namely from his assistant on foreign policy Yuri Ushakov, the sides are currently discussing idea of holding the trilateral, Russia, India and China. This could be expected in nearest future. I do share this news with pride." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-conferred-with-highest-civilian-honour-of-bhutan-heres-what-you-should-know-437675" hreflang="en">Indian PM Modi conferred with highest civilian honour of Bhutan. Here's what you should know</a>

Asked if it will happen virtually or in person, he said, "It’s too pre mature to say, but anyways, what is important, what matters is it takes place first. Naturally our preference and sincere expectation would be that the three leaders could meet physically." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Russian President Putin was in India on December 6 for the annual India-Russia summit. Later, he had a virtual meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping as well. India-China ties have been in tatters since Galwan incident last year. It saw Chinese aggressive action at Line of Actual Control with India, leading to death of 20 Indian soldiers. China later confirmed that it lost four of its soldiers, a figure that is doubted given the track record of Chinese government on giving out data. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/under-presumption-of-kittens-indian-farmer-rescues-leopard-cubs-437696" hreflang="en">Under presumption of ‘kittens’, Indian farmer rescues leopard cubs</a>

India and Russia share close ties with defence being the main pillar of partnership. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Yury Borisov recently said that India may be the first buyer of the S500 air defence system. The Russian envoy when asked about the development, said, "Our latest military technology is always open to you. As far as specific targets are concerned, you better raise with military. Our armaments, achievements or technology is always open to you." &nbsp;&nbsp;

The comments of the Russian Deputy PM come as India is getting delivery of S400 systems. The contract for the system was signed during President Putin's India visit in 2018 and deliveries started this month. But there are worries over US CAATSA sanctions on India. Washington is mum as of now if New Delhi will be sanctioned over S400 deal or not.

Close on the heels of Putin's foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov mentioning about Russia, India and China summit at leaders level in the near future, the Russian envoy in Delhi has stated that the summit can happen "in near future.

Close on the heels of Putin's foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov mentioning about Russia, India and China summit at leaders level in the near future, the Russian envoy in Delhi has stated that the summit can happen "in near future. This is my professional and personal expectations" with preference for in-person meet. In response to a WION question, Russian envoy Nikolay Kudashev, said, "The recent Russian Indian summit in New Delhi on December 6 was very successful. Multiple issues were raised. Receiving inputs from Moscow, coming from the Presidential inner circle, namely from his assistant on foreign policy Yuri Ushakov, the sides are currently discussing idea of holding the trilateral, Russia, India and China. This could be expected in nearest future. I do share this news with pride." Also Read: Indian PM Modi conferred with highest civilian honour of Bhutan. Here's what you should know Asked if it will happen virtually or in person, he said, "It’s too pre mature to say, but anyways, what is important, what matters is it takes place first. Naturally our preference and sincere expectation would be that the three leaders could meet physically." Russian President Putin was in India on December 6 for the annual India-Russia summit. Later, he had a virtual meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping as well. India-China ties have been in tatters since Galwan incident last year. It saw Chinese aggressive action at Line of Actual Control with India, leading to death of 20 Indian soldiers. China later confirmed that it lost four of its soldiers, a figure that is doubted given the track record of Chinese government on giving out data. Also Read: Under presumption of ‘kittens’, Indian farmer rescues leopard cubs India and Russia share close ties with defence being the main pillar of partnership. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Yury Borisov recently said that India may be the first buyer of the S500 air defence system. The Russian envoy when asked about the development, said, "Our latest military technology is always open to you. As far as specific targets are concerned, you better raise with military. Our armaments, achievements or technology is always open to you." The comments of the Russian Deputy PM come as India is getting delivery of S400 systems. The contract for the system was signed during President Putin's India visit in 2018 and deliveries started this month. But there are worries over US CAATSA sanctions on India. Washington is mum as of now if New Delhi will be sanctioned over S400 deal or not.

Preference for Russia, India, China in-person summit : Russian envoy Nikolay Kudashev

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin conducted a virtual meeting on Wednesday, China Central Television (CCTV) reported.

Xi Jinping expressed&nbsp;gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin for safeguarding China-Russia relations against attempts by other powers to destabilise them.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin reminded his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, that Russia-Beijing ties are an example of how state relations should grow in the twenty-first century.

"I am glad to have the opportunity to be in direct communication with you. This allows us to thoroughly discuss the development of Russian-Chinese relations, comprehensive partnership, and strategic interaction. I consider these relations to be a real model of interstate cooperation in the 21st century," Putin said during the online meeting. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-accuses-us-of-inciting-violence-and-instigating-confrontation-436817">Also read | China accuses US of 'inciting violence' and 'instigating confrontation'</a>

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that he expects his next meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, to take place in February 2022 in Beijing during the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics. 
 
Watch | Gravitas: Russia's Vladimir Putin attempts an outreach to India

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-russias-vladimir-putin-attempts-an-outreach-to-india-434724/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Dear friend, distinguished Chairman Xi Jinping, I hope that next February we will finally be able to meet in person in Beijing. As we agreed, we will hold negotiations with you, then we will participate in the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympic Games," Putin said during the online meeting.

Putin also said that he is sure Beijing Olympics will be held "at the highest level," adding that Moscow is against the politicization of sports. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin conducted a virtual meeting on Wednesday, China Central Television (CCTV) reported. Xi Jinping expressed gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin for safeguarding China-Russia relations against attempts by other powers to destabilise them.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin conducted a virtual meeting on Wednesday, China Central Television (CCTV) reported. Xi Jinping expressed gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin for safeguarding China-Russia relations against attempts by other powers to destabilise them. On Wednesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin reminded his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, that Russia-Beijing ties are an example of how state relations should grow in the twenty-first century. "I am glad to have the opportunity to be in direct communication with you. This allows us to thoroughly discuss the development of Russian-Chinese relations, comprehensive partnership, and strategic interaction. I consider these relations to be a real model of interstate cooperation in the 21st century," Putin said during the online meeting. Also read | China accuses US of 'inciting violence' and 'instigating confrontation' Russian President Vladimir Putin said that he expects his next meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, to take place in February 2022 in Beijing during the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics. Watch | Gravitas: Russia's Vladimir Putin attempts an outreach to India "Dear friend, distinguished Chairman Xi Jinping, I hope that next February we will finally be able to meet in person in Beijing. As we agreed, we will hold negotiations with you, then we will participate in the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympic Games," Putin said during the online meeting. Putin also said that he is sure Beijing Olympics will be held "at the highest level," adding that Moscow is against the politicization of sports. (With inputs from agencies)

Xi thanks Putin for standing against attempts to undermine China-Russia relations

Russia has vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution which sought to formally link climate change and global security challenges. The resolution was supported by a majority of UN member states.

The draft-resolution, backed by Niger and Ireland called on UN Secretary General Antonio&nbsp;Guterres to "integrate climate-related security risk as a central component into comprehensive conflict-prevention strategies."

Twelve out of 15 members of the security council supported it. India voted against the resolution while China abstained.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiainUNSC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiainUNSC</a> 
 
Today, India🇮🇳 voted against a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNSC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNSC</a> draft resolution that attempted to securitize climate action and undermine the hard-won consensual agreements in Glasgow. 
 
Watch Explanation of Vote by Permanent Representative <a href="https://twitter.com/ambtstirumurti?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ambtstirumurti</a> ⤵️ <a href="https://t.co/jXMLA7lHnM">pic.twitter.com/jXMLA7lHnM</a>
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"India had no option but to vote against" the resolution&nbsp;India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations TS Tirumurti said.

He, however, said that there should be no confusion about India's determination to combat climate change and it "will always support real climate action and serious climate justice."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-votes-against-unsc-draft-resolution-which-sought-to-securitise-climate-action-436687">India votes against UNSC draft resolution which sought to 'securitise' climate action</a>

"We will always speak up for the interests of the developing world, including Africa and the Sahel region. And we will do so at the right place, the UNFCCC," he said.

He also asserted that developed countries must provide climate finance of USD 1 trillion at the earliest, saying it is necessary that climate finance be tracked with the same diligence as climate mitigation.

"The developed countries have fallen well short of their promises," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia has vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution which sought to formally link climate change and global security challenges. The resolution was supported by a majority of UN member states.

Russia has vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution which sought to formally link climate change and global security challenges. The resolution was supported by a majority of UN member states. The draft-resolution, backed by Niger and Ireland called on UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres to "integrate climate-related security risk as a central component into comprehensive conflict-prevention strategies." Twelve out of 15 members of the security council supported it. India voted against the resolution while China abstained. #IndiainUNSC Today, India🇮🇳 voted against a #UNSC draft resolution that attempted to securitize climate action and undermine the hard-won consensual agreements in Glasgow. Watch Explanation of Vote by Permanent Representative @ambtstirumurti ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/jXMLA7lHnM — India at UN, NY (@IndiaUNNewYork) December 13, 2021 × "India had no option but to vote against" the resolution India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations TS Tirumurti said. He, however, said that there should be no confusion about India's determination to combat climate change and it "will always support real climate action and serious climate justice." Also Read | India votes against UNSC draft resolution which sought to 'securitise' climate action "We will always speak up for the interests of the developing world, including Africa and the Sahel region. And we will do so at the right place, the UNFCCC," he said. He also asserted that developed countries must provide climate finance of USD 1 trillion at the earliest, saying it is necessary that climate finance be tracked with the same diligence as climate mitigation. "The developed countries have fallen well short of their promises," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia vetoes UN resolution linking climate change to security threats

Russia on Monday said that it may be forced to deploy nuclear missiles in Europe as a reaction to what it perceives as NATO's plan to do the same.&nbsp;

Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told Russia's RIA news agency in an interview that Moscow would have to take the step if NATO refused to engage with it on preventing such an escalation.

The comments may heighten tensions as West sees Russia to be preparing for an invasion in Ukraine. The US and its allies are warning Moscow against it.&nbsp;

Missiles that Russia has threatened to deploy are Intermediate nuclear missiles.

Intermediate-range nuclear forces (INF) in Europe were banned under a 1987 treaty agreed between Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev and U.S. President Ronald Reagan in what was hailed at the time as a major easing of Cold War tensions. Washington quit the pact in 2019 after complaining for years of alleged Russian violations.

Ryabkov said there were "indirect indications" that NATO was moving closer to re-deploying INF, including its restoration last month of the 56th Artillery Command which operated nuclear-capable Pershing missiles during the Cold War.

'COMPLETE LACK OF TRUST'

"Lack of progress towards a political and diplomatic solution to this problem will lead to our response being of a military and technical military nature," he said.

"That is, it will be a confrontation, this will the next round, the appearance of such resources on our side. Right now there aren't any, we have a unilateral moratorium. We call for NATO and the U.S. to join this moratorium."

NATO says there will be no new US missiles in Europe and it is ready to deter new Russian missiles with a "measured" response that would only involve conventional weapons.

But Ryabkov said Russia had a "complete lack of trust" in NATO.

"They don't permit themselves to do anything that could somehow increase our security - they believe they can act as they need, to their advantage, and we simply have to swallow all this and deal with it. This is not going to continue."

Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Joe Biden held two hours of talks last week on the Ukraine crisis and Moscow's demand for what it calls legally binding security guarantees from the West.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Monday said that it may be forced to deploy nuclear missiles in Europe as a reaction to what it perceives as NATO's plan to do the same. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told Russia's RIA news agency in an interview that Moscow would have to take the step if NATO refused to engage with it on preventing such an escalation.

Russia on Monday said that it may be forced to deploy nuclear missiles in Europe as a reaction to what it perceives as NATO's plan to do the same. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told Russia's RIA news agency in an interview that Moscow would have to take the step if NATO refused to engage with it on preventing such an escalation. The comments may heighten tensions as West sees Russia to be preparing for an invasion in Ukraine. The US and its allies are warning Moscow against it. Missiles that Russia has threatened to deploy are Intermediate nuclear missiles. Intermediate-range nuclear forces (INF) in Europe were banned under a 1987 treaty agreed between Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev and U.S. President Ronald Reagan in what was hailed at the time as a major easing of Cold War tensions. Washington quit the pact in 2019 after complaining for years of alleged Russian violations. Ryabkov said there were "indirect indications" that NATO was moving closer to re-deploying INF, including its restoration last month of the 56th Artillery Command which operated nuclear-capable Pershing missiles during the Cold War. 'COMPLETE LACK OF TRUST' "Lack of progress towards a political and diplomatic solution to this problem will lead to our response being of a military and technical military nature," he said. "That is, it will be a confrontation, this will the next round, the appearance of such resources on our side. Right now there aren't any, we have a unilateral moratorium. We call for NATO and the U.S. to join this moratorium." NATO says there will be no new US missiles in Europe and it is ready to deter new Russian missiles with a "measured" response that would only involve conventional weapons. But Ryabkov said Russia had a "complete lack of trust" in NATO. "They don't permit themselves to do anything that could somehow increase our security - they believe they can act as they need, to their advantage, and we simply have to swallow all this and deal with it. This is not going to continue." Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Joe Biden held two hours of talks last week on the Ukraine crisis and Moscow's demand for what it calls legally binding security guarantees from the West. (With inputs from agencies)

May deploy nuclear missiles in Europe, says Russia

Read the latest information on devastating tornadoes in the United States, UK's warning to Russia over Ukraine situation, Julian Assange's partner revealed that the Wikileaks founder suffered a stroke.&nbsp;

Here are top 10 world news headlines:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-looks-like-a-bomb-has-exploded-survivors-tell-horrifying-experiences-of-deadliest-tornadoes-in-us-436328">'It looks like a bomb has exploded': Survivors tell horrifying experiences of 'deadliest' tornadoes in US</a>

Rescue teams are working in a desperate search for survivors in the aftermath of devastating tornadoes in the United States that left at least 83 people dead and dozens still missing.&nbsp;

At least 30 tornadoes ripped through at least six states late Friday and early Saturday, causing massive destruction of life and property and those who survived are stunned after losing their house and business.

<img alt="tornado" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bfd45895-2038-4bf2-a577-07622421aa19" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kentucky.jpg" />&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-will-face-massive-consequences-over-ukraine-incursion-warns-g7-436311">Russia will face 'massive consequences' over Ukraine incursion, warns G7</a>

Britain's foreign secretary Liz Truss while speaking at the G7 foreign ministers meeting warned that Russia would face "massive consequences in case of an incursion into Ukraine".

Western leaders have sought to put pressure on President Putin after reports claimed Russian troops have been massing troops on Ukraine's border.

<img alt="russia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8ee9ddf9-d14b-46f5-9763-99102a8fc062" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/russia-ukraine.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-looks-like-a-bomb-has-exploded-survivors-tell-horrifying-experiences-of-deadliest-tornadoes-in-us-436328">Assange suffered a stroke in prison during UK court hearing, says fiancee</a>

Julian Assange's partner Stella Moris has said the Wikileaks founder suffered a stroke on the first day of the UK High Court appeal hearing on October 27.

Assange, 50, is holed up in UK's Belmarsh prison. Moris told the press that the stroke could lead to a "major attack".

<img alt="Julian Assange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0e2875f4-1cf3-4a2f-8f0f-a3963e465739" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Julian%20Assange.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/social-media-threat-to-todays-democracy-says-turkey-president-erdogan-436322">Social media threat to today’s democracy, says Turkey President Erdogan</a>

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared today that social media is a "threat to today’s democracy".

“Social media, which was described as a symbol of freedom when it first appeared, has turned into one of the main sources of threat to today’s democracy,” Erodgan said.

<img alt="Tayyip Erdogan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2eb4abc6-58f7-4266-afce-0ac5b4a4674b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Tayyip%20Erdogan.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-naftali-bennett-to-make-historic-visit-to-uae-will-discuss-economic-and-regional-issues-436285">Israeli PM Naftali Bennett to make historic visit to UAE, will discuss economic and regional issues</a>

Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett will depart on his first official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), his office announced in a press release on Sunday (December 12).&nbsp;

The press release noted that Bennett is expected to meet tomorrow with the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed during the historic visit.&nbsp;

<img alt="Naftali Bennett" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="31de2818-4454-4f33-81ce-0b8007f5d4fd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Naftali%20Bennett.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-at-least-3-dead-after-gas-explosion-in-sicily-drone-video-shows-scale-of-devastation-436335">Italy: At least 3 dead after gas explosion in Sicily, drone video shows scale of devastation</a>

Multiple residential buildings collapsed, killing at least three people in Sicily, Italy in a gas explosion on Saturday (December 12). Six people are reportedly missing as search and rescue work is underway.&nbsp;

<img alt="Italy" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d53feaf-f346-483c-be05-ad51bf578b0a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Ravanusa%2C%20Italy.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-foreign-secretary-says-last-chance-for-iran-to-come-to-the-negotiating-table-and-save-nuclear-deal-436316">UK's foreign secretary says 'last chance' for Iran to come to the negotiating table and save nuclear deal</a>

Britain's Foreign Secretary Liz Truss has warned Iran over the nuclear deal as she said resumed talks in Vienna to save the Iran nuclear deal is the Islamic republic's "last chance" to take a "serious" position.&nbsp;

<img alt="Liz Truss" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="543442ef-770a-4c84-99d6-3ed8a70bc06b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Liz%20Truss.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/software-flaw-log4shell-may-be-worst-computer-vulnerability-in-a-decade-436306">Software flaw 'Log4Shell' may be worst computer vulnerability in a decade</a>

In what may be the worst computer vulnerability found in years, the flaw, which is dubbed “Log4Shell”, is risking several organisations around the world. The critical vulnerability, which is present in a widely used software tool, is emerging to be a major threat. &nbsp;

<img alt="Log4Shell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f2e858b2-ebac-4ea0-8a39-213dbae146fc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Log4Shell.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-invites-locals-over-30-to-register-for-booster-jabs-amid-omicron-surge-436239">UK invites locals over 30 to register for booster jabs amid Omicron surge</a>

As the Omicron variant is spreading more rapidly across the country, UK’s National Health Service (NHS) has invited locals aged 30 and above to book their Covid boosters, starting from Monday.

<img alt="Omicron" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4190cbc4-7886-460c-88ed-b0632b72e73b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Omicron.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/max-verstappen-wins-formula-one-world-title-after-beating-lewis-hamilton-to-clinch-abu-dhabi-grand-prix-436341">Max Verstappen wins Formula One world title after beating Lewis Hamilton to clinch Abu Dhabi Grand Prix</a>

Max Verstappen became the first Dutchman ever to win the Formula One world championship title when he won a dramatic season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Sunday.

The Red Bull driver notched up a 10th victory of the season when he took advantage of a second safety car to overtake seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton on the final lap after Nicholas Latifi crashed.

<img alt="Max Verstappen" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="02f770ef-2f1c-4cfb-a479-7bb9fa959878" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Max%20Verstappen_0.jpg" />

Read the latest information on devastating tornadoes in the United States, UK's warning to Russia over Ukraine situation, Julian Assange's partner revealed that the Wikileaks founder suffered a stroke.

Read the latest information on devastating tornadoes in the United States, UK's warning to Russia over Ukraine situation, Julian Assange's partner revealed that the Wikileaks founder suffered a stroke. Here are top 10 world news headlines: 'It looks like a bomb has exploded': Survivors tell horrifying experiences of 'deadliest' tornadoes in US Rescue teams are working in a desperate search for survivors in the aftermath of devastating tornadoes in the United States that left at least 83 people dead and dozens still missing. At least 30 tornadoes ripped through at least six states late Friday and early Saturday, causing massive destruction of life and property and those who survived are stunned after losing their house and business. Russia will face 'massive consequences' over Ukraine incursion, warns G7 Britain's foreign secretary Liz Truss while speaking at the G7 foreign ministers meeting warned that Russia would face "massive consequences in case of an incursion into Ukraine". Western leaders have sought to put pressure on President Putin after reports claimed Russian troops have been massing troops on Ukraine's border. Assange suffered a stroke in prison during UK court hearing, says fiancee Julian Assange's partner Stella Moris has said the Wikileaks founder suffered a stroke on the first day of the UK High Court appeal hearing on October 27. Assange, 50, is holed up in UK's Belmarsh prison. Moris told the press that the stroke could lead to a "major attack". Social media threat to today’s democracy, says Turkey President Erdogan Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared today that social media is a "threat to today’s democracy". “Social media, which was described as a symbol of freedom when it first appeared, has turned into one of the main sources of threat to today’s democracy,” Erodgan said. Israeli PM Naftali Bennett to make historic visit to UAE, will discuss economic and regional issues Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett will depart on his first official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), his office announced in a press release on Sunday (December 12). The press release noted that Bennett is expected to meet tomorrow with the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed during the historic visit. Italy: At least 3 dead after gas explosion in Sicily, drone video shows scale of devastation Multiple residential buildings collapsed, killing at least three people in Sicily, Italy in a gas explosion on Saturday (December 12). Six people are reportedly missing as search and rescue work is underway. UK's foreign secretary says 'last chance' for Iran to come to the negotiating table and save nuclear deal Britain's Foreign Secretary Liz Truss has warned Iran over the nuclear deal as she said resumed talks in Vienna to save the Iran nuclear deal is the Islamic republic's "last chance" to take a "serious" position. Software flaw 'Log4Shell' may be worst computer vulnerability in a decade In what may be the worst computer vulnerability found in years, the flaw, which is dubbed “Log4Shell”, is risking several organisations around the world. The critical vulnerability, which is present in a widely used software tool, is emerging to be a major threat. UK invites locals over 30 to register for booster jabs amid Omicron surge As the Omicron variant is spreading more rapidly across the country, UK’s National Health Service (NHS) has invited locals aged 30 and above to book their Covid boosters, starting from Monday. Max Verstappen wins Formula One world title after beating Lewis Hamilton to clinch Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Max Verstappen became the first Dutchman ever to win the Formula One world championship title when he won a dramatic season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Sunday. The Red Bull driver notched up a 10th victory of the season when he took advantage of a second safety car to overtake seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton on the final lap after Nicholas Latifi crashed.

Top 10 world news: G7 warns Russia over Ukraine, tornado survivors tell horrifying experiences, and more

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