Moscow announced on Monday it was expelling a Ukrainian embassy worker, the latest in a wave of diplomatic expulsions that have embroiled Russian and European diplomats, while Kiev vowed to respond in kind.

The expulsion came amid heightened tensions between Moscow and Kiev over an uptick in fighting between Ukraine's army and pro-Russia separatists in eastern Ukraine.

Russia's foreign ministry said in a statement that due to "unfriendly actions taken by the Ukrainian side... an employee of the Ukrainian embassy in Russia was declared persona non grata".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Russia expels Italian diplomat in Moscow">Russia expels Italian diplomat in Moscow</a>

It added that the diplomat, who was not named, must leave Russia by the end of April.

The ministry warned Ukraine that further measures would be taken against embassy staff in Moscow "in the event of continuing hostile actions" against Russian diplomats in Ukraine.

Ukraine's foreign ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko told AFP that "in the near future" Kiev will announce the expulsion of a Russian diplomat.

Nikolenko said that the expulsion of the Ukrainian diplomat is "another provocation of the Russian side...devoid of logic, without any reasons behind it".&nbsp;

Ukraine last week expelled a Russian diplomat in response to Moscow's order for a Ukrainian consul in Russia's second city Saint Petersburg to leave the country.

According to Russia's security agency, the consul was trying to obtain sensitive information from a Russian national.

Recent weeks have seen a wave of expulsions of Russian officials from European countries and the United States over claims of hacking and espionage.

Romania on Monday said it was removing a Russian diplomat in solidarity with the Czech Republic, which recently ordered out 18 Russian embassy staff over a deadly explosion at an ammunition depot in 2014.

Russia earlier Monday expelled an Italian naval attache responding to a similar move by Rome last month in the fallout of a spying scandal.

Kiev has been fighting pro-Russia separatists in its eastern breakaway regions since 2014, following Moscow's annexation of the Crimean peninsula.

At least 31 Ukrainian soldiers have been killed since the start of the year, compared to 50 in all of 2020, while the separatists say 22 of their fighters have died.

Moscow announced on Monday it was expelling a Ukrainian embassy worker, the latest in a wave of diplomatic expulsions that have embroiled Russian and European diplomats, while Kiev vowed to respond in kind.

Moscow announced on Monday it was expelling a Ukrainian embassy worker, the latest in a wave of diplomatic expulsions that have embroiled Russian and European diplomats, while Kiev vowed to respond in kind. The expulsion came amid heightened tensions between Moscow and Kiev over an uptick in fighting between Ukraine's army and pro-Russia separatists in eastern Ukraine. Russia's foreign ministry said in a statement that due to "unfriendly actions taken by the Ukrainian side... an employee of the Ukrainian embassy in Russia was declared persona non grata". Also read: Russia expels Italian diplomat in Moscow It added that the diplomat, who was not named, must leave Russia by the end of April. The ministry warned Ukraine that further measures would be taken against embassy staff in Moscow "in the event of continuing hostile actions" against Russian diplomats in Ukraine. Ukraine's foreign ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko told AFP that "in the near future" Kiev will announce the expulsion of a Russian diplomat. Nikolenko said that the expulsion of the Ukrainian diplomat is "another provocation of the Russian side...devoid of logic, without any reasons behind it". Ukraine last week expelled a Russian diplomat in response to Moscow's order for a Ukrainian consul in Russia's second city Saint Petersburg to leave the country. According to Russia's security agency, the consul was trying to obtain sensitive information from a Russian national. Recent weeks have seen a wave of expulsions of Russian officials from European countries and the United States over claims of hacking and espionage. Romania on Monday said it was removing a Russian diplomat in solidarity with the Czech Republic, which recently ordered out 18 Russian embassy staff over a deadly explosion at an ammunition depot in 2014. Russia earlier Monday expelled an Italian naval attache responding to a similar move by Rome last month in the fallout of a spying scandal. Kiev has been fighting pro-Russia separatists in its eastern breakaway regions since 2014, following Moscow's annexation of the Crimean peninsula. At least 31 Ukrainian soldiers have been killed since the start of the year, compared to 50 in all of 2020, while the separatists say 22 of their fighters have died.

Russia expels Ukrainian diplomat in ongoing spat

The activities of jailed opposition activist Alexey Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) have been restricted on Tuesday by the Moscow City Court within the framework of the claim to label it as an extremist organisation, Russian news agency Sputnik quoted a court spokesman as saying.&nbsp;

"A judge of the Moscow City Court considered the plaintiff's petition to take preliminary protection measures. On April 27, the judge issued a ruling on implementation of preliminary protection measures in the form of a ban on certain activities of the FBK and the Citizens' Rights Protection Foundation NGO [also labelled as a foreign agent]," the spokesman said. 
 
Watch | Jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny says he will end hunger strike 
&nbsp;

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FBK director Ivan Zhdanov said on Twitter that the court had banned the group from posting content on the internet, using state media, organising protests, participating in elections and using bank deposits.

Earlier Tuesday the Moscow city court's press service told reporters a judge had agreed to a "ban on certain activities" for the FBK without clarifying what they were as the case is being heard behind closed doors.

Navalny's organisations are facing an extremist label that would put them on par with the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda, banning their activities in Russia.

On Monday, the Moscow prosecutor's office said it ordered Navalny's nationwide network of regional offices to stop working while the court decided on the request for the designation.

The regional offices said they would stop their operations immediately to protect their employees and supporters.

The FBK routinely releases investigations into alleged graft by officials at all levels of government, often accompanied by YouTube videos.

Navalny's regional offices support his graft investigations and his Smart Voting strategy, which directs voters to cast their ballots for candidates best placed to defeat Kremlin-linked opponents.&nbsp;

The 44-year-old opposition figure was arrested in January after returning to Russia from Germany, where he had spent months recovering from a poisoning attack he blames on President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

He is serving two-and-a-half years in a penal colony outside of Moscow for violating parole terms on old fraud charges he and his allies say are politically motivated.&nbsp;

Authorities have ratcheted up pressure against his allies since his return to Russia, with many top aides having left the country or been placed under house arrest.

(With inputs from agencies)

The activities of jailed opposition activist Alexey Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) have been restricted on Tuesday by the Moscow City Court within the framework of the claim to label it as an extremist organisation, Russian news agency Sputnik quoted a court spokesman as saying.

The activities of jailed opposition activist Alexey Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) have been restricted on Tuesday by the Moscow City Court within the framework of the claim to label it as an extremist organisation, Russian news agency Sputnik quoted a court spokesman as saying. "A judge of the Moscow City Court considered the plaintiff's petition to take preliminary protection measures. On April 27, the judge issued a ruling on implementation of preliminary protection measures in the form of a ban on certain activities of the FBK and the Citizens' Rights Protection Foundation NGO [also labelled as a foreign agent]," the spokesman said. Watch | Jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny says he will end hunger strike FBK director Ivan Zhdanov said on Twitter that the court had banned the group from posting content on the internet, using state media, organising protests, participating in elections and using bank deposits. Earlier Tuesday the Moscow city court's press service told reporters a judge had agreed to a "ban on certain activities" for the FBK without clarifying what they were as the case is being heard behind closed doors. Navalny's organisations are facing an extremist label that would put them on par with the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda, banning their activities in Russia. On Monday, the Moscow prosecutor's office said it ordered Navalny's nationwide network of regional offices to stop working while the court decided on the request for the designation. The regional offices said they would stop their operations immediately to protect their employees and supporters. The FBK routinely releases investigations into alleged graft by officials at all levels of government, often accompanied by YouTube videos. Navalny's regional offices support his graft investigations and his Smart Voting strategy, which directs voters to cast their ballots for candidates best placed to defeat Kremlin-linked opponents. The 44-year-old opposition figure was arrested in January after returning to Russia from Germany, where he had spent months recovering from a poisoning attack he blames on President Vladimir Putin. He is serving two-and-a-half years in a penal colony outside of Moscow for violating parole terms on old fraud charges he and his allies say are politically motivated. Authorities have ratcheted up pressure against his allies since his return to Russia, with many top aides having left the country or been placed under house arrest. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian court restricts activities of Navalny's anti-corruption foundation

The developers of Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine on Tuesday criticised Brazil's refusal to import the jab as politically motivated.

Brazilian health regulator Anvisa on Monday denied requests from several states to receive batches of Sputnik V, saying it did not have the data needed to verify the jab's safety and efficacy.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="COVID-19: Brazil health regulator Anvisa rejects Russia's Sputnik vaccine">COVID-19: Brazil health regulator Anvisa rejects Russia's Sputnik vaccine</a>

"Anvisa's delays in approving Sputnik V are unfortunately of a political nature and have nothing to do with access to information or science," the official Sputnik V Twitter account said.

It pointed to a recent US government report that said Washington had tried to persuade Brazil not to use Sputnik.

"The United States Department of Health, in its 2020 annual report several months ago, publicly stated that the United States health attache 'persuaded Brazil to reject the Russian vaccine against COVID-19,'" the account added.

Anvisa said its experts had flagged "uncertainties" about the jab, which has not yet been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) or the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The Russian vaccine has so far been approved for use in at least 60 countries, including more than 10 in Latin and Central America.

Argentina signed a deal with Russia earlier this month to become the first Latin American country to produce Sputnik V shots, and will aim for full-scale production to start in June.

The Kremlin said Tuesday it needed more information about the Brazilian decision before commenting, adding that it was not in touch with Brazilian authorities on the issue.

But in general, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters: "We are against the use of vaccines as a political tool."

Some Western countries have been wary of Sputnik V -- named after the Soviet-era satellite -- over concerns the Kremlin would use it as a soft power tool to advance its interests.

Moscow registered the jab in August before large-scale clinical trials, but leading medical journal The Lancet has since said it is safe and more than 90 percent effective.

The developers of Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine on Tuesday criticised Brazil's refusal to import the jab as politically motivated. Brazilian health regulator Anvisa on Monday denied requests from several states to receive batches of Sputnik V, saying it did not have the data needed to verify the jab's safety and efficacy.

The developers of Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine on Tuesday criticised Brazil's refusal to import the jab as politically motivated. Brazilian health regulator Anvisa on Monday denied requests from several states to receive batches of Sputnik V, saying it did not have the data needed to verify the jab's safety and efficacy. Also read: COVID-19: Brazil health regulator Anvisa rejects Russia's Sputnik vaccine "Anvisa's delays in approving Sputnik V are unfortunately of a political nature and have nothing to do with access to information or science," the official Sputnik V Twitter account said. It pointed to a recent US government report that said Washington had tried to persuade Brazil not to use Sputnik. "The United States Department of Health, in its 2020 annual report several months ago, publicly stated that the United States health attache 'persuaded Brazil to reject the Russian vaccine against COVID-19,'" the account added. Anvisa said its experts had flagged "uncertainties" about the jab, which has not yet been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) or the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The Russian vaccine has so far been approved for use in at least 60 countries, including more than 10 in Latin and Central America. Argentina signed a deal with Russia earlier this month to become the first Latin American country to produce Sputnik V shots, and will aim for full-scale production to start in June. The Kremlin said Tuesday it needed more information about the Brazilian decision before commenting, adding that it was not in touch with Brazilian authorities on the issue. But in general, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters: "We are against the use of vaccines as a political tool." Some Western countries have been wary of Sputnik V -- named after the Soviet-era satellite -- over concerns the Kremlin would use it as a soft power tool to advance its interests. Moscow registered the jab in August before large-scale clinical trials, but leading medical journal The Lancet has since said it is safe and more than 90 percent effective.

Russia says Brazil's refusal to import Sputnik V is 'political'

Germany on Monday criticised Russia's announcement that it was closing off three areas of the Black Sea for months to foreign warships.&nbsp;

The restrictions came into effect on Saturday evening and were to remain in place through October 31, Russian news agencies reported, citing the country's Defence Ministry.&nbsp;

"Restrictions on the so-called peaceful passage through coastal waters lasting for such a long period of time are without precedent and problematic from an international law perspective," said German Foreign Ministry spokesman Christofer Burger.&nbsp;

"As far as international waters and the coastal waters of illegally annexed Crimea are affected, we consider this to be a breach of international law," he told reporters in Berlin.

“We continue to urgently examine the situation there and also the legal position." According to Russian media reports, the restrictions apply to an area along the Crimean coastline between Sevastopol and Gurzuf, an area near the Kerch Peninsula, and an area near the western tip of Crimea.&nbsp;

The international community refuses to recognise the annexation of the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea, which Russia seized from Ukraine in March 2014. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Germany on Monday criticised Russia's announcement that it was closing off three areas of the Black Sea for months to foreign warships. The restrictions came into effect on Saturday evening and were to remain in place through October 31, Russian news agencies reported, citing the country's Defence Ministry.

Germany on Monday criticised Russia's announcement that it was closing off three areas of the Black Sea for months to foreign warships. The restrictions came into effect on Saturday evening and were to remain in place through October 31, Russian news agencies reported, citing the country's Defence Ministry. "Restrictions on the so-called peaceful passage through coastal waters lasting for such a long period of time are without precedent and problematic from an international law perspective," said German Foreign Ministry spokesman Christofer Burger. "As far as international waters and the coastal waters of illegally annexed Crimea are affected, we consider this to be a breach of international law," he told reporters in Berlin. “We continue to urgently examine the situation there and also the legal position." According to Russian media reports, the restrictions apply to an area along the Crimean coastline between Sevastopol and Gurzuf, an area near the Kerch Peninsula, and an area near the western tip of Crimea. The international community refuses to recognise the annexation of the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea, which Russia seized from Ukraine in March 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany condemns Russian naval restrictions in Black Sea 

Countries across the globe have come together to help India battle resurgence of Covid. More than 300,000 cases have been reported on a daily basis in the country. Moreover, Russia is making news over several developments today. Read this and more in our Top 10 World News.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/international-community-extends-support-to-india-amid-covid-crisis-380550">International community extends support to India amid Covid crisis</a>

<img alt="India" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dbd43186-4f58-4cd6-9585-66be320de670" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/India_0.JPG" />

Here is the list of all the countries that are extending assistance to India which is facing a massive crisis in medical supplies as Covid second wave ravages its cities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-court-may-declare-alexei-navalnys-group-an-extremist-outfit-380534">Russian court may declare Alexei Navalny's group an extremist outfit</a>

<img alt="Navalny" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0927e68d-4921-47d3-be2d-d022777589cb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Navalny_2.JPG" />

Supporters of Alexei Navalny are defiant in the face of the possible ruling

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Alleged shortfall in vaccine deliveries has had EU and AstraZeneca at loggerheads

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Brent crude dropped $1.19, or 1.8%, to $64.92 a barrel by 1014 GMT. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude was down $1.08, or 1.7%, at $61.06 a barrel

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The guidelines call for apps to disclose to users what personal information will be collected and for what purpose, and orders apps not to collect users' personal information without first obtaining consent

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-what-is-medical-oxygen-380556">COVID-19: What is medical oxygen?</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;

<img alt="Oxygen" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c8ad63e8-d18a-478a-89e4-b34d69f1409e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Oxygen.JPG" />

The term ‘medical oxygen’ means high purity oxygen, which is used for medical treatments and developed for use in the human body

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Last month, Rome had announced that it was expelling two Russian officials after an Italian navy captain was caught by police selling confidential military documents to a Russian embassy official

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-under-pressure-over-let-bodies-pile-high-comment-380553"><img alt="Kremlin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dfa3a7d6-3566-4f9e-b8cc-8cd1e726cce7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kremlin_0.JPG" /></a> 
 
In a front-page headline, the Daily Mail newspaper reported Johnson had said he would rather see "bodies pile high in their thousands" than impose a third coronavirus lockdown

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<img alt="Bull run" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b4c5ff0c-7bd4-46b1-91be-3f4eb85e79db" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Bull%20run.JPG" />

The Navarre region, of which Pamplona is the capital, has one of the highest rates of Covid-19 in Spain.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-jumps-onto-moving-car-to-stop-dangerous-driver-in-albania-380544">Man jumps onto moving car to stop dangerous driver in Albania&nbsp;</a>

<img alt="Man jumps" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7ac0100d-581b-4e46-85a3-f76b728da6bb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Man%20jums.JPG" />

In the footage captured by dozens of cameras set up to report the country’s general election, the car’s wheels can be seen screeching as it reverses in circles around the Skanderbeg Square.

Countries across the globe have come together to help India battle resurgence of Covid. More than 300,000 cases have been reported on a daily basis in the country.

Countries across the globe have come together to help India battle resurgence of Covid. More than 300,000 cases have been reported on a daily basis in the country. Moreover, Russia is making news over several developments today. Read this and more in our Top 10 World News. International community extends support to India amid Covid crisis Here is the list of all the countries that are extending assistance to India which is facing a massive crisis in medical supplies as Covid second wave ravages its cities. Russian court may declare Alexei Navalny's group an extremist outfit Supporters of Alexei Navalny are defiant in the face of the possible ruling AstraZeneca says EU legal action over vaccines is 'without merit' Alleged shortfall in vaccine deliveries has had EU and AstraZeneca at loggerheads Oil falls as India's COVID-19 surge dents demand outlook Brent crude dropped $1.19, or 1.8%, to $64.92 a barrel by 1014 GMT. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude was down $1.08, or 1.7%, at $61.06 a barrel Chinese regulators issue draft rules on privacy protection for app users The guidelines call for apps to disclose to users what personal information will be collected and for what purpose, and orders apps not to collect users' personal information without first obtaining consent COVID-19: What is medical oxygen? The term ‘medical oxygen’ means high purity oxygen, which is used for medical treatments and developed for use in the human body Russia expels Italian diplomat in Moscow Last month, Rome had announced that it was expelling two Russian officials after an Italian navy captain was caught by police selling confidential military documents to a Russian embassy official UK PM under pressure over 'let bodies pile high' comment In a front-page headline, the Daily Mail newspaper reported Johnson had said he would rather see "bodies pile high in their thousands" than impose a third coronavirus lockdown Spain's famous Pamplona bull-run cancelled for second year due to pandemic The Navarre region, of which Pamplona is the capital, has one of the highest rates of Covid-19 in Spain. Man jumps onto moving car to stop dangerous driver in Albania In the footage captured by dozens of cameras set up to report the country’s general election, the car’s wheels can be seen screeching as it reverses in circles around the Skanderbeg Square.

Top 10 world news: World supports India amid pandemic, Russia expels Italian diplomat, and more

Russia said on Monday that it was expelling an Italian diplomat as a reponse to "unfriendly" removal of two Russian officials from Rome over espionage scandal. Russian foreign ministry said it had summoned Italian ambassador and had informed him that Russia was declaring Rome's naval attache in Moscow a "persona non grata". The naval attache would have 24 hours to leave the country.

Last month, Rome had announced that it was expelling two Russian officials after an Italian navy captain was caught by police selling confidential military documents to a Russian embassy official.

The navy officer, Walter Biot, worked in the office of the Chief of the Defence Staff, and reportedly passed on dossiers to the Russians in return for 5,000 euros (around $6,000).

Italy immediately condemned expulsion of its naval attache in Moscow. It described it as "unfounded and unjust because it is in retaliation for a legitimate measure taking by the Italian authorities in defence of their own security".

Recent weeks have seen a wave of expulsions of Russian officials from European countries and the United States over claims of hacking and espionage. Tensions have spiralled in particular with Czech Republic.

Prague had accused Russian military intelligence of being behind a deadly explosion at an ammunition depot in 2014

Recent weeks have seen a wave of expulsions of Russian officials from European countries and the United States over claims of hacking and espionage.

Prague expelled 18 Russian diplomats over the allegations and Moscow retaliated by kicking out 20 Czech embassy staff.

Romania said Monday it would expel a Russian diplomat in solidarity with the Czech Republic, following similar decisions taken by Slovakia and the Baltic states.

Russia said on Monday that it was expelling an Italian diplomat as a reponse to "unfriendly" removal of two Russian officials from Rome over espionage scandal. Russian foreign ministry said it had summoned Italian ambassador and had informed him that Russia was declaring Rome's naval attache in Moscow a "persona non grata".

Russia said on Monday that it was expelling an Italian diplomat as a reponse to "unfriendly" removal of two Russian officials from Rome over espionage scandal. Russian foreign ministry said it had summoned Italian ambassador and had informed him that Russia was declaring Rome's naval attache in Moscow a "persona non grata". The naval attache would have 24 hours to leave the country. Last month, Rome had announced that it was expelling two Russian officials after an Italian navy captain was caught by police selling confidential military documents to a Russian embassy official. The navy officer, Walter Biot, worked in the office of the Chief of the Defence Staff, and reportedly passed on dossiers to the Russians in return for 5,000 euros (around $6,000). Italy immediately condemned expulsion of its naval attache in Moscow. It described it as "unfounded and unjust because it is in retaliation for a legitimate measure taking by the Italian authorities in defence of their own security". Recent weeks have seen a wave of expulsions of Russian officials from European countries and the United States over claims of hacking and espionage. Tensions have spiralled in particular with Czech Republic. Prague had accused Russian military intelligence of being behind a deadly explosion at an ammunition depot in 2014 Recent weeks have seen a wave of expulsions of Russian officials from European countries and the United States over claims of hacking and espionage. Prague expelled 18 Russian diplomats over the allegations and Moscow retaliated by kicking out 20 Czech embassy staff. Romania said Monday it would expel a Russian diplomat in solidarity with the Czech Republic, following similar decisions taken by Slovakia and the Baltic states.

Russia expels Italian diplomat in Moscow

Moscow City court is expected to rule on a request from Moscow prosecutor to officially outlaw Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) as an extremist organisation.

FBK is the backbone of Navalny's political movement. The ruling is expected to come in a few days.

If the ruling is delivered, it will give the authorities legal power to arrest and jail Navalny's supporters and block bank accounts just for being activists in the foundation.

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Supporters of Navalny are defiant in the face of the possible ruling.

Leonid Volkov, chief of staff of Navalny's team, said on Sunday the group would continue its work, including investigations into corruption.

"We are not going to give up," Volkov said in an online broadcast. Volkov lives in Lithuania.

Navalny was jailed in February for 2-1/2 years on charges he called politically motivated. On Friday, he said he would start gradually ending a hunger strike after getting medical care.

Navalny's allies have pressed ahead with his "smart voting" strategy, supporting politicians outside of pro-Kremlin United Russia party they believe to be well placed to beat the ruling party candidates and urging Russians to vote for them.

Russians are set to vote in general elections in September.

(With inputs from agencies)

Moscow City court is expected to rule on a request from Moscow prosecutor to officially outlaw Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) as an extremist organisation.

Moscow City court is expected to rule on a request from Moscow prosecutor to officially outlaw Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) as an extremist organisation. FBK is the backbone of Navalny's political movement. The ruling is expected to come in a few days. If the ruling is delivered, it will give the authorities legal power to arrest and jail Navalny's supporters and block bank accounts just for being activists in the foundation. × Supporters of Navalny are defiant in the face of the possible ruling. Leonid Volkov, chief of staff of Navalny's team, said on Sunday the group would continue its work, including investigations into corruption. "We are not going to give up," Volkov said in an online broadcast. Volkov lives in Lithuania. Navalny was jailed in February for 2-1/2 years on charges he called politically motivated. On Friday, he said he would start gradually ending a hunger strike after getting medical care. Navalny's allies have pressed ahead with his "smart voting" strategy, supporting politicians outside of pro-Kremlin United Russia party they believe to be well placed to beat the ruling party candidates and urging Russians to vote for them. Russians are set to vote in general elections in September. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian court may declare Alexei Navalny's group an extremist outfit

Close allies of jailed Alexei Navalny, Russian President Vladimir Putin`s most vocal critic, pledged on Sunday to continue their actions despite the prospect of being outlawed under extremism charges.

Moscow City Court is expected to rule in a few days on a request from a Moscow prosecutor to officially outlaw the backbone of Navalny`s political movement - the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) - on the grounds that it is an extremist group.

Such a ruling, if it happens, would give the authorities the legal power to arrest and jail his supporters and block their bank accounts simply for being activists in the foundation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Navalny says continuing hunger strike despite cough and fever, risks death in prison">Navalny says continuing hunger strike despite cough and fever, risks death in prison</a>

Leonid Volkov, chief of staff of Navalny's team, said on Sunday the group would continue its work, including investigations into corruption.

"We are not going to give up," Volkov said in an online broadcast. Volkov lives in Lithuania.

Navalny was jailed in February for 2-1/2 years on charges he called politically motivated. On Friday, he said, he would start gradually ending a hunger strike after getting medical care.

Navalny's allies have pressed ahead with his "smart voting" strategy, supporting politicians outside of pro-Kremlin United Russia party they believe to be well placed to beat the ruling party candidates and urging Russians to vote for them.

Russians are set to vote in general elections in September.

"We have time, desire and strength to restructure our work, to get the smart voting to the elections and beat the United Russia," said Volkov.

Close allies of jailed Alexei Navalny, Russian President Vladimir Putin`s most vocal critic, pledged on Sunday to continue their actions despite the prospect of being outlawed under extremism charges.

Close allies of jailed Alexei Navalny, Russian President Vladimir Putin`s most vocal critic, pledged on Sunday to continue their actions despite the prospect of being outlawed under extremism charges. Moscow City Court is expected to rule in a few days on a request from a Moscow prosecutor to officially outlaw the backbone of Navalny`s political movement - the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) - on the grounds that it is an extremist group. Such a ruling, if it happens, would give the authorities the legal power to arrest and jail his supporters and block their bank accounts simply for being activists in the foundation. Also read: Navalny says continuing hunger strike despite cough and fever, risks death in prison Leonid Volkov, chief of staff of Navalny's team, said on Sunday the group would continue its work, including investigations into corruption. "We are not going to give up," Volkov said in an online broadcast. Volkov lives in Lithuania. Navalny was jailed in February for 2-1/2 years on charges he called politically motivated. On Friday, he said, he would start gradually ending a hunger strike after getting medical care. Navalny's allies have pressed ahead with his "smart voting" strategy, supporting politicians outside of pro-Kremlin United Russia party they believe to be well placed to beat the ruling party candidates and urging Russians to vote for them. Russians are set to vote in general elections in September. "We have time, desire and strength to restructure our work, to get the smart voting to the elections and beat the United Russia," said Volkov.

Allies of Russia's Navalny defiant in face of possible extremism charges

Czech President Milos Zeman took a rare swipe at Moscow on Sunday, likening two deadly blasts on Czech soil to terror attacks and comparing the Russian suspected culprits to bumbling cartoon characters.&nbsp;

Czech intelligence said last week that it suspected two Russians orchestrated two explosions in a military depot in the Czech Republic's east which killed two people in 2014.

The announcement led Prague to expel 18 Russian diplomats seen as spies while Moscow kicked out 20 Czech embassy staff in retaliation, sending bilateral relations to their lowest point in decades.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Slavia Prague's Kudela banned for 10 games over racism incident">Slavia Prague's Kudela banned for 10 games over racism incident</a>

The alleged agents of Russia's GRU military secret service are the same ones suspected of poisoning former Russian double agent Sergei Skripal and his daughter in Salisbury, England in 2018.

Czech police said the two Russians travelled to the Czech Republic under false identities days before the first blast.

"What were the Russians, Pat and Mat, who are also suspected of having poisoned Skripal, doing on our soil?" President Milos Zeman said on a Sunday TV debate show as he demanded a thorough investigation of the blasts.

"No sovereign country can allow two agents of a foreign country to cause a terror attack on its soil," he added.

Popular Czech cartoon characters Pat and Mat are do-it-yourself enthusiasts whose exploits often end in calamity.&nbsp;

Zeman's comparison came amid reports that the explosions were supposed to have taken place outside the depot to target arms owned by a Bulgarian dealer and possibly heading for Ukraine.

Usually pro-Russian, veteran left-winger Zeman took a week to comment on the allegations against Moscow. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The explosions occurred the same year that Russia triggered tensions with the West by annexing the Crimean peninsula from Ukraine and a conflict broke out between Ukrainian forces and Russia-backed rebels in the east of the country.

Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis, Zeman's ally, has also described the explosions as a "fumbled" terror attack.

Zeman on Sunday also commented on the diplomatic expulsions, saying he could see no reason why "there should be 18 spies" at the Russian embassy.

Prague and Moscow decided to cap the number of diplomats at their respective embassies on Thursday.

Czech President Milos Zeman took a rare swipe at Moscow on Sunday, likening two deadly blasts on Czech soil to terror attacks and comparing the Russian suspected culprits to bumbling cartoon characters.

Czech President Milos Zeman took a rare swipe at Moscow on Sunday, likening two deadly blasts on Czech soil to terror attacks and comparing the Russian suspected culprits to bumbling cartoon characters. Czech intelligence said last week that it suspected two Russians orchestrated two explosions in a military depot in the Czech Republic's east which killed two people in 2014. The announcement led Prague to expel 18 Russian diplomats seen as spies while Moscow kicked out 20 Czech embassy staff in retaliation, sending bilateral relations to their lowest point in decades. Also read: Slavia Prague's Kudela banned for 10 games over racism incident The alleged agents of Russia's GRU military secret service are the same ones suspected of poisoning former Russian double agent Sergei Skripal and his daughter in Salisbury, England in 2018. Czech police said the two Russians travelled to the Czech Republic under false identities days before the first blast. "What were the Russians, Pat and Mat, who are also suspected of having poisoned Skripal, doing on our soil?" President Milos Zeman said on a Sunday TV debate show as he demanded a thorough investigation of the blasts. "No sovereign country can allow two agents of a foreign country to cause a terror attack on its soil," he added. Popular Czech cartoon characters Pat and Mat are do-it-yourself enthusiasts whose exploits often end in calamity. Zeman's comparison came amid reports that the explosions were supposed to have taken place outside the depot to target arms owned by a Bulgarian dealer and possibly heading for Ukraine. Usually pro-Russian, veteran left-winger Zeman took a week to comment on the allegations against Moscow. The explosions occurred the same year that Russia triggered tensions with the West by annexing the Crimean peninsula from Ukraine and a conflict broke out between Ukrainian forces and Russia-backed rebels in the east of the country. Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis, Zeman's ally, has also described the explosions as a "fumbled" terror attack. Zeman on Sunday also commented on the diplomatic expulsions, saying he could see no reason why "there should be 18 spies" at the Russian embassy. Prague and Moscow decided to cap the number of diplomats at their respective embassies on Thursday.

Czech leader takes rare swipe at Russia over 'terror' blasts

Russia announced on Thursday that it was ordering its troop to return to base from the Ukraine border. The troop build-up had strained relations between the two countries that have been uneasy since Russian annexation of Ukraine's Crimean peninsula.

The relief among the investors was apparent as the currencies of both, Russia and Ukraine rose sharply after the announcement. Russia also ended the war games in Crimea.

A confirmed pullout of the troops brought in on top of the permanent contingent will likely be welcomed by Western countries that had been expressing alarm at the prospect of further Russian intervention in eastern Ukraine. Russian-backed separatists have been fighting the Ukrainian government in the region since 2014.

Ukrainian president's spokeswoman said earlier this month that Russia had amassed more than 40,000 troops deployed om Ukraine's eastern border and over 40,000 in Crimea. Around 50,000 of them were new deployments, she said.

Moscow did not provide the exact number of troops but had insisted that the movement of Russian troops was defensive in nature.

In a tweet, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Ukraine "welcomes any steps to decrease the military presence &amp; deescalate the situation in Donbas (eastern Ukraine)", adding "Grateful to international partners for their support".

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said he had ordered troops involved in exercises to return to their bases by May 1, as they had completed what he called an "inspection" in the border area.

"I believe the objectives of the snap inspection have been fully achieved. The troops have demonstrated their ability to provide a credible defence for the country," Shoigu said.

EQUIPMENT LEFT

Military hardware was to be left at a training ground near the city of Voronezh, about six hours' drive from Ukraine, so that it could be used again later this year in another big scheduled exercise.

Hours earlier, Shoigu had attended manoeuvres in Crimea, which Moscow said involved 10,000 troops and more than 40 warships. Russia also announced it had arrested a Ukrainian man in Crimea as a spy.

(With agency inputs)

Russia announced on Thursday that it was ordering its troop to return to base from the Ukraine border. The troop build-up had strained relations between the two countries that have been uneasy since Russian annexation of Ukraine's Crimean peninsula.

Russia announced on Thursday that it was ordering its troop to return to base from the Ukraine border. The troop build-up had strained relations between the two countries that have been uneasy since Russian annexation of Ukraine's Crimean peninsula. The relief among the investors was apparent as the currencies of both, Russia and Ukraine rose sharply after the announcement. Russia also ended the war games in Crimea. A confirmed pullout of the troops brought in on top of the permanent contingent will likely be welcomed by Western countries that had been expressing alarm at the prospect of further Russian intervention in eastern Ukraine. Russian-backed separatists have been fighting the Ukrainian government in the region since 2014. Ukrainian president's spokeswoman said earlier this month that Russia had amassed more than 40,000 troops deployed om Ukraine's eastern border and over 40,000 in Crimea. Around 50,000 of them were new deployments, she said. Moscow did not provide the exact number of troops but had insisted that the movement of Russian troops was defensive in nature. In a tweet, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Ukraine "welcomes any steps to decrease the military presence & deescalate the situation in Donbas (eastern Ukraine)", adding "Grateful to international partners for their support". Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said he had ordered troops involved in exercises to return to their bases by May 1, as they had completed what he called an "inspection" in the border area. "I believe the objectives of the snap inspection have been fully achieved. The troops have demonstrated their ability to provide a credible defence for the country," Shoigu said. EQUIPMENT LEFT Military hardware was to be left at a training ground near the city of Voronezh, about six hours' drive from Ukraine, so that it could be used again later this year in another big scheduled exercise. Hours earlier, Shoigu had attended manoeuvres in Crimea, which Moscow said involved 10,000 troops and more than 40 warships. Russia also announced it had arrested a Ukrainian man in Crimea as a spy. (With agency inputs)

Russia orders its troops back from areas near Ukraine border

Russian opposition leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/alexei-navalny">Alexei Navalny</a> has announced a stop to his hunger strike that he had been carrying out in the prison.

"As Alice from "Wonderland" said: here you have to run to stay put. And to get somewhere, you have to run twice as fast," his post on Instagram read.

"I ran, tried, fell, went on a hunger strike, but all the same, without your help, I just broke my forehead."

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He thanked his supporters and hailed about making 'progress' in the past few months. "With the tremendous support of good people across the country and around the world, we have made tremendous progress," he said.

The announcement has come after doctors advised the Kremlin critic to end his hunger strike as soon as possible, warning he might die if he does not start consuming food and drinks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/doctors-ask-alexei-navalny-to-end-hunger-strike-379435">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/doctors-ask-alexei-navalny-to-end-hunger-strike-379435/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A few days ago, four independent UN experts had also raised concerns about Navalny’s health and urged "for urgent medical treatment abroad" for Navalny. He had been&nbsp;on a hunger strike since March 31.

"We are deeply troubled that Mr Navalny is being kept in conditions that could amount to torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment," the experts added.

The experts were appointed by the United Nations but do not speak on behalf of the organisation.&nbsp;

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny has announced a stop to his hunger strike that he had been carrying out in the prison. "As Alice from "Wonderland" said: here you have to run to stay put.

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny has announced a stop to his hunger strike that he had been carrying out in the prison. "As Alice from "Wonderland" said: here you have to run to stay put. And to get somewhere, you have to run twice as fast," his post on Instagram read. "I ran, tried, fell, went on a hunger strike, but all the same, without your help, I just broke my forehead." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Алексей Навальный (@navalny) × He thanked his supporters and hailed about making 'progress' in the past few months. "With the tremendous support of good people across the country and around the world, we have made tremendous progress," he said. The announcement has come after doctors advised the Kremlin critic to end his hunger strike as soon as possible, warning he might die if he does not start consuming food and drinks. Watch | A few days ago, four independent UN experts had also raised concerns about Navalny’s health and urged "for urgent medical treatment abroad" for Navalny. He had been on a hunger strike since March 31. "We are deeply troubled that Mr Navalny is being kept in conditions that could amount to torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment," the experts added. The experts were appointed by the United Nations but do not speak on behalf of the organisation.

Alexei Navalny announces plans to end his hunger strike

Chernobyl nuclear disaster is worst of its kind in human history. The explosion in the fourth reactor at the nuclear power plant on April, 26, 1986 left swathes of Ukraine and neighbouring Belarus badly contaminated with radiation. This led to the formation of a no man's land within a 30-kilometre (19-mile) radius of the station. Towns, villages were evacuated and the exclusion zone was considered uninhabitable for humans for the next 24,000 years.

But a particular breed of wild horses is flourishing in the exclusion zone.

"It's really a symbol of the reserve and even the exclusion zone in general," said Denys Vyshnevsky, head of the scientific department of the Chernobyl nature reserve created in the area five years ago.

Since the disaster, the area has become a haven for elk, wolves -- and the stocky endangered breed of wild horse native to Asia, Przewalski's horse.

The breed, named after Russian scientist Nikolai Przewalski who discovered it in the Asia expansive Gobi desert, became all but extinct by the middle of the 20th century, partially due to overhunting.

It was reintroduced by scientists to areas of Mongolia, China and Russia as part of preservation efforts. 
In a different program, 30 of the horses were released into the Chernobyl zone in 1998, replacing an extinct horse native to the region, the Tarpan.

The experiment in Ukraine was soon halted but the horses remained and now number around 150 in parts of the exclusion zone. There are another 60 near the border with Belarus.

"Paradoxically, this is a unique opportunity to preserve biodiversity," Vyshnevsky said.

Under the right conditions, the Ukrainian herd could eventually increase to 300 or even 500 animals, said Sergiy Zhyla, Senior Researcher, Chernobyl Biosphere Reserve.

Researchers at the Prague zoo participating in the conservation efforts now say the global population of Przewalski's horses has grown to some 2,700.

Following the success in Chernobyl, there is discussion over introducing other endangered species to Ukraine's zone.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chernobyl nuclear disaster is worst of its kind in human history. The explosion in the fourth reactor at the nuclear power plant on April, 26, 1986 left swathes of Ukraine and neighbouring Belarus badly contaminated with radiation.

Chernobyl nuclear disaster is worst of its kind in human history. The explosion in the fourth reactor at the nuclear power plant on April, 26, 1986 left swathes of Ukraine and neighbouring Belarus badly contaminated with radiation. This led to the formation of a no man's land within a 30-kilometre (19-mile) radius of the station. Towns, villages were evacuated and the exclusion zone was considered uninhabitable for humans for the next 24,000 years. But a particular breed of wild horses is flourishing in the exclusion zone. "It's really a symbol of the reserve and even the exclusion zone in general," said Denys Vyshnevsky, head of the scientific department of the Chernobyl nature reserve created in the area five years ago. Since the disaster, the area has become a haven for elk, wolves -- and the stocky endangered breed of wild horse native to Asia, Przewalski's horse. The breed, named after Russian scientist Nikolai Przewalski who discovered it in the Asia expansive Gobi desert, became all but extinct by the middle of the 20th century, partially due to overhunting. It was reintroduced by scientists to areas of Mongolia, China and Russia as part of preservation efforts. In a different program, 30 of the horses were released into the Chernobyl zone in 1998, replacing an extinct horse native to the region, the Tarpan. The experiment in Ukraine was soon halted but the horses remained and now number around 150 in parts of the exclusion zone. There are another 60 near the border with Belarus. "Paradoxically, this is a unique opportunity to preserve biodiversity," Vyshnevsky said. Under the right conditions, the Ukrainian herd could eventually increase to 300 or even 500 animals, said Sergiy Zhyla, Senior Researcher, Chernobyl Biosphere Reserve. Researchers at the Prague zoo participating in the conservation efforts now say the global population of Przewalski's horses has grown to some 2,700. Following the success in Chernobyl, there is discussion over introducing other endangered species to Ukraine's zone. (With inputs from agencies)

Wild horses thrive in Chernobyl's radiation-hit exclusion zone

Russia on Friday began the drawdown of troops that were running drills near Ukraine borders, said the Russian defence ministry. This is likely to calm heightened tensions between Russia and the West over Moscow's troop buildup on Russia-Ukraine border.

"Military units and formations are currently marching to railway loading stations and airfields, and loading onto landing ships, railway platforms and military transport aircraft," the ministry said in a statement carried by Russian news agencies.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Thursday that tens of thousands of Russian troops deployed to southern and western Russia for exercise would be returning to their bases.

The Russian buildup came as fighting between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russia eastern separatists increased in last few months.

Both NATO and Kiev welcomed Russia's announcement of the drawdown, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky saying "the reduction of troops on our border proportionally reduces tension".

A NATO official said any "de-escalation by Russia" would be important, adding: "NATO remains vigilant and we will continue to closely monitor Russia's unjustified military buildup in and around Ukraine."

The United States had said it was "looking for action" on the troop withdrawal.

Uptick in separatist conflict

Hours after the end to the exercises was announced, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Zelensky was welcome in Moscow anytime to discuss bilateral relations, but that the Ukrainian leader should discuss the surge in fighting with separatist leaders.

Russia said it had sent tens of thousands of troops to the country's south and west and to Crimea, which Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014, for a series of military drills.

It also ramped up military exercises in the Black Sea earlier this week, with more than 20 Russian warships participating in joint drills with air force fighter jets.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Friday began the drawdown of troops that were running drills near Ukraine borders, said the Russian defence ministry. This is likely to calm heightened tensions between Russia and the West over Moscow's troop buildup on Russia-Ukraine border.

Russia on Friday began the drawdown of troops that were running drills near Ukraine borders, said the Russian defence ministry. This is likely to calm heightened tensions between Russia and the West over Moscow's troop buildup on Russia-Ukraine border. "Military units and formations are currently marching to railway loading stations and airfields, and loading onto landing ships, railway platforms and military transport aircraft," the ministry said in a statement carried by Russian news agencies. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Thursday that tens of thousands of Russian troops deployed to southern and western Russia for exercise would be returning to their bases. The Russian buildup came as fighting between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russia eastern separatists increased in last few months. Both NATO and Kiev welcomed Russia's announcement of the drawdown, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky saying "the reduction of troops on our border proportionally reduces tension". A NATO official said any "de-escalation by Russia" would be important, adding: "NATO remains vigilant and we will continue to closely monitor Russia's unjustified military buildup in and around Ukraine." The United States had said it was "looking for action" on the troop withdrawal. Uptick in separatist conflict Hours after the end to the exercises was announced, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Zelensky was welcome in Moscow anytime to discuss bilateral relations, but that the Ukrainian leader should discuss the surge in fighting with separatist leaders. Russia said it had sent tens of thousands of troops to the country's south and west and to Crimea, which Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014, for a series of military drills. It also ramped up military exercises in the Black Sea earlier this week, with more than 20 Russian warships participating in joint drills with air force fighter jets. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia begins withdrawing troops from Ukraine borders

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has announced a 10-day 'non-working' period to contain the widespread <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;pandemic in the country.

Observing a surge in the coronavirus cases, Putin backed the proposal for the 'non-working' period which will start next month and is expected to break the chain of rising cases of the deadly virus.

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"If you think that it's necessary, let's do it. Today I'll sign the relevant decree," Putin said in a televised meeting where a proposal for the same was presented to him from the head of Rospotrebnadzor, Anna Popova.

The decision has come a day after Putin claimed Russia is aiming for herd immunity against the coronavirus by the autumn and hailed the medical experts for the vaccine rollout.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cannot-ape-putin-explains-why-he-chose-to-get-vaccinated-in-private-373949">'Cannot ape': Putin explains why he chose to get vaccinated in private</a>

"Vaccination is now of paramount importance... to allow herd immunity to develop in the fall," he said during his annual state of the nation address.

"Our scientists have made a real breakthrough. Now Russia has three reliable vaccines against the coronavirus," he added.

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has announced a 10-day 'non-working' period to contain the widespread coronavirus pandemic in the country. Observing a surge in the coronavirus cases, Putin backed the proposal for the 'non-working' period which will start next month and is expected to break the chain of rising cases of the deadly virus.

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has announced a 10-day 'non-working' period to contain the widespread coronavirus pandemic in the country. Observing a surge in the coronavirus cases, Putin backed the proposal for the 'non-working' period which will start next month and is expected to break the chain of rising cases of the deadly virus. Also read | Germany in talks with Russia to buy 30 million Sputnik V jabs "If you think that it's necessary, let's do it. Today I'll sign the relevant decree," Putin said in a televised meeting where a proposal for the same was presented to him from the head of Rospotrebnadzor, Anna Popova. The decision has come a day after Putin claimed Russia is aiming for herd immunity against the coronavirus by the autumn and hailed the medical experts for the vaccine rollout. Also read | 'Cannot ape': Putin explains why he chose to get vaccinated in private "Vaccination is now of paramount importance... to allow herd immunity to develop in the fall," he said during his annual state of the nation address. "Our scientists have made a real breakthrough. Now Russia has three reliable vaccines against the coronavirus," he added.

Putin declares 10-day 'non-working period' in Russia amid coronavirus surge

Ukraine&nbsp;on Wednesday urged&nbsp;Western&nbsp;allies&nbsp;to show they were prepared to punish Moscow with&nbsp;new&nbsp;sanctions, including kicking&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;out of the global SWIFT payments system, to deter the Kremlin from resorting to more&nbsp;military&nbsp;force against&nbsp;Ukraine.

In an interview with Reuters, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said while Kyiv had no&nbsp;new&nbsp;information indicating that&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;had decided to take&nbsp;new&nbsp;military&nbsp;action against&nbsp;Ukraine, it was important for the&nbsp;West&nbsp;to&nbsp;act&nbsp;now&nbsp;to prevent that happening.

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Ukraine&nbsp;is trying to shore up international support in its standoff with Moscow over a build-up of&nbsp;Russian troops on its eastern border and in Crimea.

"I have no information to state that the decision to launch a&nbsp;military&nbsp;operation against&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;has already been taken. So it can go in either direction&nbsp;now," Kuleba said.

"And this is why the reaction of the&nbsp;West, the consolidated reaction of the&nbsp;West, is so important&nbsp;now, to prevent Putin ... from making that decision."

Kyiv and Moscow have traded blame for a collapse in the ceasefire in the eastern Donbass region, where Ukrainian troops have battled&nbsp;Russian-backed forces in a conflict Kyiv says has killed 14,000 people since 2014.

Kuleba said he asked Washington to supply "powerful means of electronic warfare" to counter&nbsp;Russia's capacity to jam Ukrainian communications when he met US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken last week.

He also revealed he had urged a meeting of European Union foreign ministers on Monday to consider "banning&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;from SWIFT" as part of a package of&nbsp;new&nbsp;economic sanctions if&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;escalated the situation.

Western diplomacy had helped restrain&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;but everything "will depend on whether they're ready to ... follow their words with deeds," Kuleba said.

He said&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;had not received a response from the Kremlin to President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's invitation to his&nbsp;Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Tuesday for talks in the Donbass conflict zone.

Putin on Wednesday warned the&nbsp;West&nbsp;not to cross&nbsp;Russia's "red lines", saying Moscow would respond swiftly and harshly to any provocations.

"I read the message of President Putin the following way: 'we will be crossing your red lines, but you are not allowed to cross our red lines, and we will be defining where our red lines are,'" Kuleba said.

Ukraine on Wednesday urged Western allies to show they were prepared to punish Moscow with new sanctions, including kicking Russia out of the global SWIFT payments system, to deter the Kremlin from resorting to more military force against Ukraine.

Ukraine on Wednesday urged Western allies to show they were prepared to punish Moscow with new sanctions, including kicking Russia out of the global SWIFT payments system, to deter the Kremlin from resorting to more military force against Ukraine. In an interview with Reuters, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said while Kyiv had no new information indicating that Russia had decided to take new military action against Ukraine, it was important for the West to act now to prevent that happening. Ukraine is trying to shore up international support in its standoff with Moscow over a build-up of Russian troops on its eastern border and in Crimea. "I have no information to state that the decision to launch a military operation against Ukraine has already been taken. So it can go in either direction now," Kuleba said. "And this is why the reaction of the West, the consolidated reaction of the West, is so important now, to prevent Putin ... from making that decision." Kyiv and Moscow have traded blame for a collapse in the ceasefire in the eastern Donbass region, where Ukrainian troops have battled Russian-backed forces in a conflict Kyiv says has killed 14,000 people since 2014. Kuleba said he asked Washington to supply "powerful means of electronic warfare" to counter Russia's capacity to jam Ukrainian communications when he met US Secretary of State Antony Blinken last week. He also revealed he had urged a meeting of European Union foreign ministers on Monday to consider "banning Russia from SWIFT" as part of a package of new economic sanctions if Russia escalated the situation. Western diplomacy had helped restrain Russia but everything "will depend on whether they're ready to ... follow their words with deeds," Kuleba said. He said Ukraine had not received a response from the Kremlin to President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's invitation to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Tuesday for talks in the Donbass conflict zone. Putin on Wednesday warned the West not to cross Russia's "red lines", saying Moscow would respond swiftly and harshly to any provocations. "I read the message of President Putin the following way: 'we will be crossing your red lines, but you are not allowed to cross our red lines, and we will be defining where our red lines are,'" Kuleba said.

Ukraine to allies: West must act now to ensure no new Russia military offensive

Russian space agency Roscosmos on Tuesday said that it hoped to launch its own space station in 2025. Moscow is considering withdrawing from the International Space Station programme. Dmitry Rogozin, chief of Roscosmos said work had already begun on the first module of the new space station.&nbsp;

"The first core module of the new Russian orbital station is in the works," Rogozin said in a statement on messaging app Telegram.&nbsp;

He said Russia's Energia space corporation was aiming to have the module "ready for launch" in 2025 and released a video of Energia staff at work.

The announcement came with tensions soaring over espionage claims, a Russian troop build-up along Ukraine's borders and the deteriorating health of President Vladimir Putin's imprisoned critic Alexei Navalny.

International Space Station (ISS) which is currently in orbit is one of the most ambitious international collaborations in human history.

The ISS was launched in 1998 with co-operation between Russia, the US, Japan, Canada and the European Space Agency.

Russia's Deputy Prime Minister Yury Borisov said in recent days that Moscow was considering whether to leave the ISS programme from 2025 because of the station's age.

However, Roscosmos said on Monday that a decision on quitting the ISS had not yet been made.

"When we make a decision we will start negotiations with our partners on forms and conditions of cooperation beyond 2024," the space agency told AFP in a statement.

Russia lost its monopoly for manned flights to the ISS last year after the first successful mission of US company Space X.

Despite its much-lauded history -- Russia this month marked the 60th anniversary of Yuri Gagarin becoming the first person in orbit -- the country's space programme has struggled in recent years.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian space agency Roscosmos on Tuesday said that it hoped to launch its own space station in 2025. Moscow is considering withdrawing from the International Space Station programme.

Russian space agency Roscosmos on Tuesday said that it hoped to launch its own space station in 2025. Moscow is considering withdrawing from the International Space Station programme. Dmitry Rogozin, chief of Roscosmos said work had already begun on the first module of the new space station. "The first core module of the new Russian orbital station is in the works," Rogozin said in a statement on messaging app Telegram. He said Russia's Energia space corporation was aiming to have the module "ready for launch" in 2025 and released a video of Energia staff at work. The announcement came with tensions soaring over espionage claims, a Russian troop build-up along Ukraine's borders and the deteriorating health of President Vladimir Putin's imprisoned critic Alexei Navalny. International Space Station (ISS) which is currently in orbit is one of the most ambitious international collaborations in human history. The ISS was launched in 1998 with co-operation between Russia, the US, Japan, Canada and the European Space Agency. Russia's Deputy Prime Minister Yury Borisov said in recent days that Moscow was considering whether to leave the ISS programme from 2025 because of the station's age. However, Roscosmos said on Monday that a decision on quitting the ISS had not yet been made. "When we make a decision we will start negotiations with our partners on forms and conditions of cooperation beyond 2024," the space agency told AFP in a statement. Russia lost its monopoly for manned flights to the ISS last year after the first successful mission of US company Space X. Despite its much-lauded history -- Russia this month marked the 60th anniversary of Yuri Gagarin becoming the first person in orbit -- the country's space programme has struggled in recent years. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia to launch its own space station in 2025

Opposition leader Alexei Navalny is fighting for life in Russia for over three weeks. Navanly has been on a hunger strike and his health has deteriorated over the weekend. &nbsp;

Navalny's doctor warned that he could die 'at any moment'. Alexei Navalny is the most prominent critic of Vladimir Putin in Russia. &nbsp;

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Navalny is in jail since March and has also been on a hunger strike. Reports say prison authorities refused to provide him with adequate medical care for an acute leg and back pain. So, Navalny went on a hunger strike and his condition worsened. &nbsp;

On Sunday, his doctors tried to visit him in prison but they were denied access. On Monday, Navalny was transferred to a hospital in another jail. &nbsp;

Opposition leaders have spoken up for him. Nearly a dozen politicians in Russia have published an open letter to President Putin. They hold Putin personally responsible for the life of Navalny. Moscow has neither responded nor expressed any concern. &nbsp;

The situation is escalating. Navalny's allies have announced rallies across Russia on Wednesday. They've started a petition and said if 500,000 supporters sign it, they will launch street protests again. As of Sunday, the petition was 50,000 signatures shy of its target.&nbsp;

Navalny's health could lead to an international showdown. The European Union has told Russia that Navalny must receive medical aid. The United States is considering sanctions. US national security advisor Jake Sullivan has issued a statement. He says the Biden administration is weighing options to punish Russia if Navalny dies in prison. &nbsp;

Navalny perhaps knew what was coming in January. He said, he had no plans to commit suicide in prison as his life hangs in the balance. &nbsp;

Information about Navalny's health remains scarce. The Russian penitential system has released a statement, saying that the Kremlin critic was moved for 'treatment with vitamins'. Russian authorities say Navalny's health is satisfactory. The West is watching him closely. &nbsp;

Opposition leader Alexei Navalny is fighting for life in Russia for over three weeks. Navanly has been on a hunger strike and his health has deteriorated over the weekend.

Opposition leader Alexei Navalny is fighting for life in Russia for over three weeks. Navanly has been on a hunger strike and his health has deteriorated over the weekend. Navalny's doctor warned that he could die 'at any moment'. Alexei Navalny is the most prominent critic of Vladimir Putin in Russia. Navalny is in jail since March and has also been on a hunger strike. Reports say prison authorities refused to provide him with adequate medical care for an acute leg and back pain. So, Navalny went on a hunger strike and his condition worsened. On Sunday, his doctors tried to visit him in prison but they were denied access. On Monday, Navalny was transferred to a hospital in another jail. Opposition leaders have spoken up for him. Nearly a dozen politicians in Russia have published an open letter to President Putin. They hold Putin personally responsible for the life of Navalny. Moscow has neither responded nor expressed any concern. The situation is escalating. Navalny's allies have announced rallies across Russia on Wednesday. They've started a petition and said if 500,000 supporters sign it, they will launch street protests again. As of Sunday, the petition was 50,000 signatures shy of its target. Navalny's health could lead to an international showdown. The European Union has told Russia that Navalny must receive medical aid. The United States is considering sanctions. US national security advisor Jake Sullivan has issued a statement. He says the Biden administration is weighing options to punish Russia if Navalny dies in prison. Navalny perhaps knew what was coming in January. He said, he had no plans to commit suicide in prison as his life hangs in the balance. Information about Navalny's health remains scarce. The Russian penitential system has released a statement, saying that the Kremlin critic was moved for 'treatment with vitamins'. Russian authorities say Navalny's health is satisfactory. The West is watching him closely.

World watches closely as Navalny fights for life in Russia  

Russia's penitentiary service said on Monday it was transferring ailing Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny to a prison hospital, as the EU warned it would hold Moscow responsible for the state of his health.

The United States on Sunday threatened Russia with "consequences" if President Vladimir Putin's most prominent domestic opponent dies in jail.&nbsp;

Navalny launched a hunger strike three weeks ago and his private doctors warned over the weekend he could pass away at "any minute".&nbsp;

Russia's prison service, which has barred Navalny's own medical team from visiting him, said its doctors had decided to move him to a medical facility at another penal colony outside Moscow.

But it insisted the anti-corruption campaigner's condition was "satisfactory", and said he was taking vitamin supplements as part of medical treatment.

Fears over Navalny's fate have further worsened relations between Moscow and the West, already strained over a Russian troop build-up along the border with Ukraine and a diplomatic row with EU member state the Czech Republic.

As the European Union's 27 foreign ministers held virtual talks Monday, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said the bloc held the Russian authorities responsible for Navalny's health.

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas added that the EU would be watching closely to see that Navalny was getting the medical care he needed.

And Britain's foreign minister Dominic Raab tweeted that Russia "must grant him immediate access to independent medical care &amp; release him from his politically motivated imprisonment".

Russia dismisses protests

The Kremlin has dismissed the outcry from foreign leaders over the condition of the 44-year-old, who last year came close to death after being poisoned with the nerve agent Novichok.

"The health of convicts in the Russia Federation cannot and should not be a topic concerning them," Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

Navalny was arrested in Russia in January after returning from treatment in Germany for the nerve agent poisoning in August, which he says was carried out by Moscow -- an accusation denied by Putin's administration.

Sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison for embezzlement -- charges he says are politically motivated -- Navalny began a hunger strike on March 31 demanding medical treatment for back pain and numbness to his hands and legs.

The EU in October imposed sanctions on six Russian officials over the nerve agent attack, and in February added another four individuals over Navalny's arrest and sentencing.

Navalny's supporters have called for major protests across Russia on Wednesday to demand his release, the rallies scheduled just hours after Putin delivers his state-of-the-nation address.

Russian police -- who detained thousands during earlier protests over Navalny's initial jailing -- warned people not to demonstrate, saying officers would take "all necessary measures to maintain law and order".

Also on Monday, Russia's anti-monopoly regulator said it was investigating YouTube for making "biased" decisions about comment moderation on the video social media platform which Navalny has often used for calls to protest.&nbsp;

Navalny's spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh tweeted on Monday that she had received an email from YouTube notifying her that Russia's media regulator had ordered the company to delete a video calling for Wednesday's protest.

'Red lines'

The fraught ties with Russia dominated the agenda as EU foreign ministers held their regular monthly meeting.&nbsp; 
They held talks with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba over the Russian troop build-up along the country's eastern border and the surge in fighting with Russian-backed separatists.

Borrell said more than 150,000 Russian troops were now massed along Ukraine's borders and in the annexed Crimea peninsula.&nbsp;

However Borrell refused to give a source for that number and Monday evening the online text of his speech was updated changing the number to 100,000, with an asterix noting it was a correction.

Kiev has been battling Moscow-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine since 2014 and fighting intensified early this year, effectively shredding a ceasefire agreed last July.

On Twitter, Kuleba proposed more sanctions "to discourage Moscow from further escalation".

Lithuania's Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis argued the EU should show it was willing to impose sanctions if Moscow crosses any more "red lines".

But Borrell said there were currently no proposals for new sanctions.

EU foreign ministers are also set to be briefed on the new tensions between Russia and the Czech Republic.

Moscow on Sunday ordered 20 Czech diplomats to leave the country, a day after Prague announced it was expelling 18 Russian diplomats identified as agents of the SVR and GRU security services.

Czech authorities accused them of involvement in a 2014 explosion on its soil at a military ammunition warehouse that killed two people.

Czech police said they were seeking two Russians in connection with the explosion -- and that the photos in the passports they carried matched those used by suspects in the poisoning of former Russian double agent Sergei Skripal in Britain in 2018.

The EU said in a statement it "stands in full support and solidarity with the Czech Republic and deplores Russia's response to expel 20 Czech diplomats".

"The European Union is deeply concerned about the repeating negative pattern of dangerous malign behaviour by Russia in Europe," it added.

Russia's penitentiary service said on Monday it was transferring ailing Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny to a prison hospital, as the EU warned it would hold Moscow responsible for the state of his health.

Russia's penitentiary service said on Monday it was transferring ailing Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny to a prison hospital, as the EU warned it would hold Moscow responsible for the state of his health. The United States on Sunday threatened Russia with "consequences" if President Vladimir Putin's most prominent domestic opponent dies in jail. Navalny launched a hunger strike three weeks ago and his private doctors warned over the weekend he could pass away at "any minute". Russia's prison service, which has barred Navalny's own medical team from visiting him, said its doctors had decided to move him to a medical facility at another penal colony outside Moscow. But it insisted the anti-corruption campaigner's condition was "satisfactory", and said he was taking vitamin supplements as part of medical treatment. Fears over Navalny's fate have further worsened relations between Moscow and the West, already strained over a Russian troop build-up along the border with Ukraine and a diplomatic row with EU member state the Czech Republic. As the European Union's 27 foreign ministers held virtual talks Monday, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said the bloc held the Russian authorities responsible for Navalny's health. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas added that the EU would be watching closely to see that Navalny was getting the medical care he needed. And Britain's foreign minister Dominic Raab tweeted that Russia "must grant him immediate access to independent medical care & release him from his politically motivated imprisonment". Russia dismisses protests The Kremlin has dismissed the outcry from foreign leaders over the condition of the 44-year-old, who last year came close to death after being poisoned with the nerve agent Novichok. "The health of convicts in the Russia Federation cannot and should not be a topic concerning them," Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. Navalny was arrested in Russia in January after returning from treatment in Germany for the nerve agent poisoning in August, which he says was carried out by Moscow -- an accusation denied by Putin's administration. Sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison for embezzlement -- charges he says are politically motivated -- Navalny began a hunger strike on March 31 demanding medical treatment for back pain and numbness to his hands and legs. The EU in October imposed sanctions on six Russian officials over the nerve agent attack, and in February added another four individuals over Navalny's arrest and sentencing. Navalny's supporters have called for major protests across Russia on Wednesday to demand his release, the rallies scheduled just hours after Putin delivers his state-of-the-nation address. Russian police -- who detained thousands during earlier protests over Navalny's initial jailing -- warned people not to demonstrate, saying officers would take "all necessary measures to maintain law and order". Also on Monday, Russia's anti-monopoly regulator said it was investigating YouTube for making "biased" decisions about comment moderation on the video social media platform which Navalny has often used for calls to protest. Navalny's spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh tweeted on Monday that she had received an email from YouTube notifying her that Russia's media regulator had ordered the company to delete a video calling for Wednesday's protest. 'Red lines' The fraught ties with Russia dominated the agenda as EU foreign ministers held their regular monthly meeting. They held talks with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba over the Russian troop build-up along the country's eastern border and the surge in fighting with Russian-backed separatists. Borrell said more than 150,000 Russian troops were now massed along Ukraine's borders and in the annexed Crimea peninsula. However Borrell refused to give a source for that number and Monday evening the online text of his speech was updated changing the number to 100,000, with an asterix noting it was a correction. Kiev has been battling Moscow-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine since 2014 and fighting intensified early this year, effectively shredding a ceasefire agreed last July. On Twitter, Kuleba proposed more sanctions "to discourage Moscow from further escalation". Lithuania's Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis argued the EU should show it was willing to impose sanctions if Moscow crosses any more "red lines". But Borrell said there were currently no proposals for new sanctions. EU foreign ministers are also set to be briefed on the new tensions between Russia and the Czech Republic. Moscow on Sunday ordered 20 Czech diplomats to leave the country, a day after Prague announced it was expelling 18 Russian diplomats identified as agents of the SVR and GRU security services. Czech authorities accused them of involvement in a 2014 explosion on its soil at a military ammunition warehouse that killed two people. Czech police said they were seeking two Russians in connection with the explosion -- and that the photos in the passports they carried matched those used by suspects in the poisoning of former Russian double agent Sergei Skripal in Britain in 2018. The EU said in a statement it "stands in full support and solidarity with the Czech Republic and deplores Russia's response to expel 20 Czech diplomats". "The European Union is deeply concerned about the repeating negative pattern of dangerous malign behaviour by Russia in Europe," it added.

Russia moves Navalny to prison hospital after Western pressure

The Czech Republic said on Monday Russia's eviction of 20 Czech embassy employees in response to Prague's expulsion of 18 Russian staff was a stronger than expected reaction and the government will consider further steps.&nbsp;

Acting Czech Foreign Minister Jan Hamacek said he had asked fellow European Union foreign ministers for 'an expression of solidarity' at a video conference on Monday.&nbsp;

"I expect that also on the basis of this..., we will learn about more expressions of support and it will be up to member states if they add some concrete decisions."&nbsp;

The central European country ordered the Russian diplomats out on Saturday, saying it suspected Russian intelligence was involved in explosions at an ammunition depot in October and December 2014.&nbsp;

"The reaction (by Russia) is stronger than we had expected, it is more diplomats than the number of intelligence officers we expelled," Hamacek told a televised news conference.&nbsp;

"I will meet the prime minister and discuss whether and when it will be needed to take some further steps from the Czech side."&nbsp;

The Czech government has said it has reasonable suspicion that two Russian intelligence agents accused of a nerve agent poisoning in Britain in 2018 were behind the ammunition depot blasts four years before that killed two people. &nbsp;

Russia's Foreign Ministry criticised Prague's decision not to disclose all details of the investigation to Moscow, describing the affair as a blow to bilateral relations.&nbsp;

"This is proof that this whole story is a fabricated, dirty, disgusting fake," RIA news agency cited Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova as saying.&nbsp;

The row is the biggest between Prague and Moscow since the end of decades of Soviet domination of central and eastern European countries in 1989.&nbsp;

The Kremlin, commenting on the allegations that Russian intelligence was involved in the explosions and on the subsequent diplomatic expulsions, called the Czech Republic's actions 'provocative and unfriendly'.&nbsp;

The Czech Foreign Ministry said the Russian Embassy in Prague had 129 diplomats and other personnel, and two regional consulates - about twice the size of the Czech Embassy in Moscow, which the Russian countermeasure left severely hit.&nbsp;

The Czech Republic said on Monday Russia's eviction of 20 Czech embassy employees in response to Prague's expulsion of 18 Russian staff was a stronger than expected reaction and the government will consider further steps.

The Czech Republic said on Monday Russia's eviction of 20 Czech embassy employees in response to Prague's expulsion of 18 Russian staff was a stronger than expected reaction and the government will consider further steps. Acting Czech Foreign Minister Jan Hamacek said he had asked fellow European Union foreign ministers for 'an expression of solidarity' at a video conference on Monday. "I expect that also on the basis of this..., we will learn about more expressions of support and it will be up to member states if they add some concrete decisions." The central European country ordered the Russian diplomats out on Saturday, saying it suspected Russian intelligence was involved in explosions at an ammunition depot in October and December 2014. "The reaction (by Russia) is stronger than we had expected, it is more diplomats than the number of intelligence officers we expelled," Hamacek told a televised news conference. "I will meet the prime minister and discuss whether and when it will be needed to take some further steps from the Czech side." The Czech government has said it has reasonable suspicion that two Russian intelligence agents accused of a nerve agent poisoning in Britain in 2018 were behind the ammunition depot blasts four years before that killed two people. Russia's Foreign Ministry criticised Prague's decision not to disclose all details of the investigation to Moscow, describing the affair as a blow to bilateral relations. "This is proof that this whole story is a fabricated, dirty, disgusting fake," RIA news agency cited Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova as saying. The row is the biggest between Prague and Moscow since the end of decades of Soviet domination of central and eastern European countries in 1989. The Kremlin, commenting on the allegations that Russian intelligence was involved in the explosions and on the subsequent diplomatic expulsions, called the Czech Republic's actions 'provocative and unfriendly'. The Czech Foreign Ministry said the Russian Embassy in Prague had 129 diplomats and other personnel, and two regional consulates - about twice the size of the Czech Embassy in Moscow, which the Russian countermeasure left severely hit.

Diplomat ousters: Czechs say Russian retaliation stronger than expected, seek EU solidarity 

Russia has concentrated more than 150,000 troops on Ukraine's border and in annexed Crimea, the EU's top diplomat Josep Borrell said on Monday after EU foreign ministers were briefed by Ukraine's foreign minister.&nbsp;

"It is more than 150,000 Russian troops massing on the Ukrainian borders and in Crimea. The risk of further escalation is evident," Borrell said, declining to give a source for the figure.&nbsp;

He said no new economic sanctions or expulsions of Russian diplomats were planned for the time being, despite saying that the military build-up on Ukraine's borders was the largest ever.&nbsp;

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, after addressing EU foreign ministers, called on the EU to impose new sanctions on Russia.&nbsp;

Tensions between Moscow and Kyiv have been rising amid the military build-up and clashes in eastern Ukraine between the army and pro-Russian separatists.&nbsp;

Earlier, Russia reinforced its naval presence in the Black Sea and sent two warships. These warships transited the Bosphorus on Saturday along with 15 smaller vessels. These monoeuvres have come at a time when Russia-Ukraine relations are strained over Russian military presence on its border with the country.&nbsp;

Moscow calls the huge troop buildup a temporary defensive exercise.&nbsp;

The Russian warships that transited the Bosphorus are Ropucha-class landing ships from Russia's Northern fleet. The ships are capable of carrying tanks and troops for the coastal assault.&nbsp;

More Russian naval reinforcements in the form of two more landing ships, this time from Russia's Baltic Fleet, are expected to imminently transit the Bosphorus.&nbsp;

The RIA news agency on Saturday also reported that 15 smaller vessels from Russia's Caspian Flotilla have completed their transfer to the Black Sea as part of an exercise.&nbsp;

In a further sign of heightened tensions in the region, a ship carrying logistics trucks and equipment for NATO forces in Romania transited the Bosphorus on Friday evening. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Russia has concentrated more than 150,000 troops on Ukraine's border and in annexed Crimea, the EU's top diplomat Josep Borrell said on Monday after EU foreign ministers were briefed by Ukraine's foreign minister.

Russia has concentrated more than 150,000 troops on Ukraine's border and in annexed Crimea, the EU's top diplomat Josep Borrell said on Monday after EU foreign ministers were briefed by Ukraine's foreign minister. "It is more than 150,000 Russian troops massing on the Ukrainian borders and in Crimea. The risk of further escalation is evident," Borrell said, declining to give a source for the figure. He said no new economic sanctions or expulsions of Russian diplomats were planned for the time being, despite saying that the military build-up on Ukraine's borders was the largest ever. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, after addressing EU foreign ministers, called on the EU to impose new sanctions on Russia. Tensions between Moscow and Kyiv have been rising amid the military build-up and clashes in eastern Ukraine between the army and pro-Russian separatists. Earlier, Russia reinforced its naval presence in the Black Sea and sent two warships. These warships transited the Bosphorus on Saturday along with 15 smaller vessels. These monoeuvres have come at a time when Russia-Ukraine relations are strained over Russian military presence on its border with the country. Moscow calls the huge troop buildup a temporary defensive exercise. The Russian warships that transited the Bosphorus are Ropucha-class landing ships from Russia's Northern fleet. The ships are capable of carrying tanks and troops for the coastal assault. More Russian naval reinforcements in the form of two more landing ships, this time from Russia's Baltic Fleet, are expected to imminently transit the Bosphorus. The RIA news agency on Saturday also reported that 15 smaller vessels from Russia's Caspian Flotilla have completed their transfer to the Black Sea as part of an exercise. In a further sign of heightened tensions in the region, a ship carrying logistics trucks and equipment for NATO forces in Romania transited the Bosphorus on Friday evening. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia amassed over 150,000 troops along Ukraine border, says top EU diplomat Borrell  

The United States said on Sunday it stood with the Czech Republic after it expelled Russia diplomats and accused Moscow of being behind an explosion at a Czech ammunition dump.

"The U.S. stands with the Czech Republic in its firm response against Russia’s subversive actions on Czech soil," said State Department spokesman Ned Price in a statement on Twitter.

"We must act firmly in response to Russian actions that compromise the territorial integrity, energy security, or critical infrastructure of our allies and partners."

The United States said on Sunday it stood with the Czech Republic after it expelled Russia diplomats and accused Moscow of being behind an explosion at a Czech ammunition dump.

The United States said on Sunday it stood with the Czech Republic after it expelled Russia diplomats and accused Moscow of being behind an explosion at a Czech ammunition dump. "The U.S. stands with the Czech Republic in its firm response against Russia’s subversive actions on Czech soil," said State Department spokesman Ned Price in a statement on Twitter. "We must act firmly in response to Russian actions that compromise the territorial integrity, energy security, or critical infrastructure of our allies and partners."

US stands with Czech Republic's response to 'Russia's subversive actions'

Eleven Russian politicians signed an open letter demanding an independent doctor be immediately allowed to see Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, news channel CNN reported.

These 11 politicians represent several regional parliaments of Russia.

According to CNN, the letter states that "You, the President of the Russian Federation, personally bear responsibility for the life of Navalny on the territory of the Russian Federation, including in prison facilities". 
 
Watch | Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny ‘could die at any moment: Doctors

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kremlin-critic-alexei-navalny-could-die-at-any-moment-doctors-378509/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The US&nbsp;on Sunday warned Russia of consequences if Navalny died in prison. Doctors have said on Saturday that the jailed politician can die "any minute". Aides have called for nationwide protests to ensure there was no harm to Navalny's life. Navalny is currently on a hunger strike inside the jail.

US President Joe Biden's National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that Washington had warned the Kremlin that it would be "held accountable by the international community" if Navalny died. Sullivan added that Kremlin was told, "that there will be consequences if Mr Navalny dies."

Biden had said on Saturday that Navalny's plight was "totally, totally unfair, totally inappropriate".

(With inputs from agencies)

Eleven Russian politicians signed an open letter demanding an independent doctor be immediately allowed to see Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, news channel CNN reported.

Eleven Russian politicians signed an open letter demanding an independent doctor be immediately allowed to see Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, news channel CNN reported. These 11 politicians represent several regional parliaments of Russia. According to CNN, the letter states that "You, the President of the Russian Federation, personally bear responsibility for the life of Navalny on the territory of the Russian Federation, including in prison facilities". Watch | Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny ‘could die at any moment: Doctors The US on Sunday warned Russia of consequences if Navalny died in prison. Doctors have said on Saturday that the jailed politician can die "any minute". Aides have called for nationwide protests to ensure there was no harm to Navalny's life. Navalny is currently on a hunger strike inside the jail. US President Joe Biden's National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that Washington had warned the Kremlin that it would be "held accountable by the international community" if Navalny died. Sullivan added that Kremlin was told, "that there will be consequences if Mr Navalny dies." Biden had said on Saturday that Navalny's plight was "totally, totally unfair, totally inappropriate". (With inputs from agencies)

Health of Navalny threatens his life: Russian politicians to President Vladimir Putin

Russia expelled 20 Czech diplomats on Sunday in retaliation for a slew of diplomatic expulsions by Prague and gave the affected officials just over 24 hours to leave the country.

The Czech Republic had expelled 18 Russian diplomats the previous day saying that two alleged Russian spies accused of a nerve agent poisoning in Britain in 2018 were behind a deadly explosion at a Czech ammunition depot four years earlier.

In Moscow, Russia’s foreign ministry summoned the Czech ambassador over Prague’s expulsion of 18 Russian diplomats.

The United States and Poland came out in solidarity with the Czech Republic’s decision to expel Russian diplomats and accused Moscow of being behind an explosion at a Czech ammunition dump in 2014.

“The US stands with the Czech Republic in its firm response against Russia’s subversive actions on Czech soil,” said State Department spokesman Ned Price in a statement on Twitter.

“We must act firmly in response to Russian actions that compromise the territorial integrity, energy security, or critical infrastructure of our allies and partners.”

In Warsaw, the foreign ministry said in a statement that Poland fully supported Czech Republic’s decision to expel Russian diplomats.

“Allied solidarity and quick action make us strong. Poland fully supports the decisions on the expulsion of the Russian diplomats involved in the explosion in the ammunition depot in 2014,” the ministry said on Twitter.

Russia expelled 20 Czech diplomats on Sunday in retaliation for a slew of diplomatic expulsions by Prague and gave the affected officials just over 24 hours to leave the country.

Russia expelled 20 Czech diplomats on Sunday in retaliation for a slew of diplomatic expulsions by Prague and gave the affected officials just over 24 hours to leave the country. The Czech Republic had expelled 18 Russian diplomats the previous day saying that two alleged Russian spies accused of a nerve agent poisoning in Britain in 2018 were behind a deadly explosion at a Czech ammunition depot four years earlier. In Moscow, Russia’s foreign ministry summoned the Czech ambassador over Prague’s expulsion of 18 Russian diplomats. The United States and Poland came out in solidarity with the Czech Republic’s decision to expel Russian diplomats and accused Moscow of being behind an explosion at a Czech ammunition dump in 2014. “The US stands with the Czech Republic in its firm response against Russia’s subversive actions on Czech soil,” said State Department spokesman Ned Price in a statement on Twitter. “We must act firmly in response to Russian actions that compromise the territorial integrity, energy security, or critical infrastructure of our allies and partners.” In Warsaw, the foreign ministry said in a statement that Poland fully supported Czech Republic’s decision to expel Russian diplomats. “Allied solidarity and quick action make us strong. Poland fully supports the decisions on the expulsion of the Russian diplomats involved in the explosion in the ammunition depot in 2014,” the ministry said on Twitter.

Russia expels 20 Czech diplomats in retaliation for Prague expulsions

Ukrainian soldiers gearing up to repel Russian attack, if any, along the border. Although international pressure is increasing on Russia, Ukrainian soldiers say that they ready to counter any situation.

"We should only count on ourselves," Taras Mykytsey, a 52-year-old soldier, told AFP in the frontline village of Zaytseve north of the separatist stronghold Donetsk.

The separatists, who have carved out two "People's Republics" in eastern Ukraine, are backed by Russia.

"While we are waiting for something to be sent to us, Putin will not wait," added Mykytsey, sporting a helmet and a bulletproof vest.

Yuriy, a 29-year-old senior sergeant based near the town of Shchastya in the neighbouring Lugansk region, struck a similar note, saying he did not expect Western boots on the ground any time soon.

"What foreign country would want to send its people to their death?" he said.

Yuriy, who declined to give his last name, added that the Russian president would not buckle.

Faced with the largest deployment of Russian troops on Ukraine's borders since 2014, President Volodymyr Zelensky has requested more tangible help from the West, but many Ukrainian troops say they know they are on their own. The soldiers are sceptical that US sanctions and NATO warnings would have any effect on Russia.

US President Joe Biden has pledged his "unwavering support" to Zelensky, and Washington this week hit Moscow with new sanctions over US election interference and other hostile activity.

After talks in Paris on Friday with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel, the Ukranian leader called for a four-way summit with Putin and the resumption of a ceasefire upended by a recent spate of clashes between Kiev troops and the separatists.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian soldiers gearing up to repel Russian attack, if any, along the border. Although international pressure is increasing on Russia, Ukrainian soldiers say that they ready to counter any situation.

Ukrainian soldiers gearing up to repel Russian attack, if any, along the border. Although international pressure is increasing on Russia, Ukrainian soldiers say that they ready to counter any situation. "We should only count on ourselves," Taras Mykytsey, a 52-year-old soldier, told AFP in the frontline village of Zaytseve north of the separatist stronghold Donetsk. The separatists, who have carved out two "People's Republics" in eastern Ukraine, are backed by Russia. "While we are waiting for something to be sent to us, Putin will not wait," added Mykytsey, sporting a helmet and a bulletproof vest. Yuriy, a 29-year-old senior sergeant based near the town of Shchastya in the neighbouring Lugansk region, struck a similar note, saying he did not expect Western boots on the ground any time soon. "What foreign country would want to send its people to their death?" he said. Yuriy, who declined to give his last name, added that the Russian president would not buckle. Faced with the largest deployment of Russian troops on Ukraine's borders since 2014, President Volodymyr Zelensky has requested more tangible help from the West, but many Ukrainian troops say they know they are on their own. The soldiers are sceptical that US sanctions and NATO warnings would have any effect on Russia. US President Joe Biden has pledged his "unwavering support" to Zelensky, and Washington this week hit Moscow with new sanctions over US election interference and other hostile activity. After talks in Paris on Friday with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel, the Ukranian leader called for a four-way summit with Putin and the resumption of a ceasefire upended by a recent spate of clashes between Kiev troops and the separatists. (With inputs from agencies)

Ready to repel Russia, say Ukrainian troops

Alexei Navalny, the jailed Kremlin critic can 'die any minute' as a result of his rapidly deteriorating health, doctors warned on Saturday. They have urged immediate access to Navalny. He is on a hunger strike since March 31 to demand proper medical treatment for back pain and numbness in his legs and hands. He was jailed in February.

Navalny's personal doctor Anastasia Vasilyeva and three more doctors including cardiologist Yaroslav Ashikhmin have asked prison officials to grant them immediate access.

"Our patient can die any minute," Ashikhmin said on Facebook on Saturday, pointing to the opposition politician's high potassium levels and saying Navalny should be moved to intensive care.&nbsp;

"Fatal arrhythmia can develop any minute."&nbsp;

In August last year, Navalny survived poisoning with Novichok nerve agent. He has blamed the poisoning attempt on Kremlin.

'Alexei is dying'

Navalny's spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh, who accompanied him when he collapsed on a plane after the poisoning in August, said the situation was critical again.

"Alexei is dying," she said on Facebook. "With his condition it's a matter of days."

She said she felt like she was "on that plane again, only this time it's landing in slow motion", pointing out that access to Navalny was restricted and few Russians were aware of what was actually going on with him in prison.

Alexei Navalny, the jailed Kremlin critic can 'die any minute' as a result of his rapidly deteriorating health, doctors warned on Saturday. They have urged immediate access to Navalny.

Alexei Navalny, the jailed Kremlin critic can 'die any minute' as a result of his rapidly deteriorating health, doctors warned on Saturday. They have urged immediate access to Navalny. He is on a hunger strike since March 31 to demand proper medical treatment for back pain and numbness in his legs and hands. He was jailed in February. Navalny's personal doctor Anastasia Vasilyeva and three more doctors including cardiologist Yaroslav Ashikhmin have asked prison officials to grant them immediate access. "Our patient can die any minute," Ashikhmin said on Facebook on Saturday, pointing to the opposition politician's high potassium levels and saying Navalny should be moved to intensive care. "Fatal arrhythmia can develop any minute." In August last year, Navalny survived poisoning with Novichok nerve agent. He has blamed the poisoning attempt on Kremlin. 'Alexei is dying' Navalny's spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh, who accompanied him when he collapsed on a plane after the poisoning in August, said the situation was critical again. "Alexei is dying," she said on Facebook. "With his condition it's a matter of days." She said she felt like she was "on that plane again, only this time it's landing in slow motion", pointing out that access to Navalny was restricted and few Russians were aware of what was actually going on with him in prison.

Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny can 'die any minute', say doctors

The United States on Sunday warned Russia of consequences if Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny died in prison. Doctors have said on Saturday that the jailed politician can die "any minute". Aides of Navalny have called for nationwide protests to ensure there was no harm to Navalny's life. Navalny is currently on a hunger strike inside the jail.

US President Joe Biden's National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that Washington had warned the Kremlin that it would be "held accountable by the international community" if Navalny died. Sullivan added that Kremlin was told "that there will be consequences if Mr Navalny dies."

Biden had said on Saturday that Navalny's plight was "totally, totally unfair, totally inappropriate".

On Sunday, France, Germany and the European Union (EU) joined growing chorus over Navalny's plight. EU foreign ministers are going to discuss the situation on Monday.

Russia has increasingly found itself cornered on many global issues. It is facing heat for its troop buildup near border with Ukraine. US has expelled Russian diplomats alleging Russian interference in US Election. Condition of Alexei Navalny may prove to be another front for Russia to face the global political heat.

Call for Nationwide protests in Russia

Navalny's team on Sunday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalny-aides-call-for-protests-to-save-his-life-378419">called for massive protests across Russia</a> on Wednesday evening, just hours after Putin is set to deliver his state of nation address.

"It's time to act. We are talking not just about Navalny's freedom but his life," Navalny's right-hand man Leonid Volkov said on Facebook.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalny-aides-call-for-protests-to-save-his-life-378419">Alexei Navalny aides call for protests to save his life</a>

Volkov said Wednesday's rally could become a decisive battle against "absolute evil" or Russia's last opposition rally for years to come.

"Call on all your acquaintances and take to central squares," wrote Volkov, who heads Navalny's regional offices, adding that the protests should be massive.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Sunday warned Russia of consequences if Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny died in prison. Doctors have said on Saturday that the jailed politician can die "any minute".

The United States on Sunday warned Russia of consequences if Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny died in prison. Doctors have said on Saturday that the jailed politician can die "any minute". Aides of Navalny have called for nationwide protests to ensure there was no harm to Navalny's life. Navalny is currently on a hunger strike inside the jail. US President Joe Biden's National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that Washington had warned the Kremlin that it would be "held accountable by the international community" if Navalny died. Sullivan added that Kremlin was told "that there will be consequences if Mr Navalny dies." Biden had said on Saturday that Navalny's plight was "totally, totally unfair, totally inappropriate". On Sunday, France, Germany and the European Union (EU) joined growing chorus over Navalny's plight. EU foreign ministers are going to discuss the situation on Monday. Russia has increasingly found itself cornered on many global issues. It is facing heat for its troop buildup near border with Ukraine. US has expelled Russian diplomats alleging Russian interference in US Election. Condition of Alexei Navalny may prove to be another front for Russia to face the global political heat. Call for Nationwide protests in Russia Navalny's team on Sunday called for massive protests across Russia on Wednesday evening, just hours after Putin is set to deliver his state of nation address. "It's time to act. We are talking not just about Navalny's freedom but his life," Navalny's right-hand man Leonid Volkov said on Facebook. Also Read | Alexei Navalny aides call for protests to save his life Volkov said Wednesday's rally could become a decisive battle against "absolute evil" or Russia's last opposition rally for years to come. "Call on all your acquaintances and take to central squares," wrote Volkov, who heads Navalny's regional offices, adding that the protests should be massive. (With inputs from agencies)

US warns Russia of 'consequences' if Alexei Navalny dies

Kurdish authorities in northeast Syria on Sunday handed over 34 orphaned children, whose parents were suspected of belonging to the Islamic State group, to a Russian delegation to be repatriated.

An AFP correspondent in the city of Qamishli said the children aged between three and 14 were handed over to a delegation headed by the Russian president's envoy for children's rights, Anna Kuznetsova.

Moscow has now repatriated at least 169 such children, Fener al-Kait of the Syrian Kurds' foreign affairs department told AFP on the sidelines of a handover ceremony.

He said other departures to the Russian Federation of orphaned children would follow from northeast Syria.

Moscow has also been repatriating children abandoned in Iraq since the collapse of the jihadists' "caliphate" straddling both Arab states.

Syria's Kurds have repeatedly urged the international community to repatriate foreign nationals held in crowded camps in northeast Syria.

Their calls have largely fallen on deaf ears with only limited numbers, mostly children, allowed to return home so far.

Kurdish authorities in northeast Syria on Sunday handed over 34 orphaned children, whose parents were suspected of belonging to the Islamic State group, to a Russian delegation to be repatriated.

Kurdish authorities in northeast Syria on Sunday handed over 34 orphaned children, whose parents were suspected of belonging to the Islamic State group, to a Russian delegation to be repatriated. An AFP correspondent in the city of Qamishli said the children aged between three and 14 were handed over to a delegation headed by the Russian president's envoy for children's rights, Anna Kuznetsova. Moscow has now repatriated at least 169 such children, Fener al-Kait of the Syrian Kurds' foreign affairs department told AFP on the sidelines of a handover ceremony. He said other departures to the Russian Federation of orphaned children would follow from northeast Syria. Moscow has also been repatriating children abandoned in Iraq since the collapse of the jihadists' "caliphate" straddling both Arab states. Syria's Kurds have repeatedly urged the international community to repatriate foreign nationals held in crowded camps in northeast Syria. Their calls have largely fallen on deaf ears with only limited numbers, mostly children, allowed to return home so far.

Russia repatriates 34 orphans of IS families from Syria

Russia on Sunday said it would retaliate against the Czech government's "unprecedented" decision to expel 18 Russian diplomats identified as secret agents and summoned the Czech ambassador.

"We will take retaliatory measures that will force the authors of this provocation to understand their full responsibility for destroying the basis of normal relations between our countries," the Russian foreign ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

The ministry did not specify which measures would be taken, but called the Czech announcement "absurd".

A source told AFP on Sunday that the Czech ambassador in Russia had been summoned to the foreign ministry.

The Russian foreign ministry did not release any details.

On Saturday, Czech authorities said they would expel 18 Russian diplomats identified by local intelligence as secret agents of the Russian SVR and GRU security services suspected of involvement in a 2014 explosion.

Czech police also said they were seeking two Russians in connection with the blast that killed two people, and who carried passports used by suspects in the attempted poisoning of former Russian double agent Sergei Skripal in 2018.

Moscow called the announcement a "hostile step" and alleged it bore a "trace" of involvement by Washington.

"In their desire to please the United States against the background of recent US sanctions against Russia, Czech authorities in this respect even outdid their masters from across the pond," the ministry added.

Earlier this week the United States announced sanctions and the expulsion of 10 Russian diplomats in retaliation for what Washington said was the Kremlin's US election interference, a massive cyber attack and other hostile activity.

Russia on Sunday said it would retaliate against the Czech government's "unprecedented" decision to expel 18 Russian diplomats identified as secret agents and summoned the Czech ambassador.

Russia on Sunday said it would retaliate against the Czech government's "unprecedented" decision to expel 18 Russian diplomats identified as secret agents and summoned the Czech ambassador. "We will take retaliatory measures that will force the authors of this provocation to understand their full responsibility for destroying the basis of normal relations between our countries," the Russian foreign ministry said in a statement. The ministry did not specify which measures would be taken, but called the Czech announcement "absurd". A source told AFP on Sunday that the Czech ambassador in Russia had been summoned to the foreign ministry. The Russian foreign ministry did not release any details. On Saturday, Czech authorities said they would expel 18 Russian diplomats identified by local intelligence as secret agents of the Russian SVR and GRU security services suspected of involvement in a 2014 explosion. Czech police also said they were seeking two Russians in connection with the blast that killed two people, and who carried passports used by suspects in the attempted poisoning of former Russian double agent Sergei Skripal in 2018. Moscow called the announcement a "hostile step" and alleged it bore a "trace" of involvement by Washington. "In their desire to please the United States against the background of recent US sanctions against Russia, Czech authorities in this respect even outdid their masters from across the pond," the ministry added. Earlier this week the United States announced sanctions and the expulsion of 10 Russian diplomats in retaliation for what Washington said was the Kremlin's US election interference, a massive cyber attack and other hostile activity.

Moscow summons Czech envoy after 'unprecedented' expulsions

The Czech Republic said on Sunday it had informed NATO and European Union allies about suspected Russian involvement in a 2014 ammunition depot explosion and the matter would be addressed at an EU foreign ministers' meeting on Monday.&nbsp;

The central European country expelled 18 Russian embassy staff on Saturday over the issue and said investigations had linked Russian intelligence to the explosion, which killed two people. &nbsp;

Russia's Interfax news agency cited Vladimir Dzhabarov, first deputy head of the Russian upper house's international affairs committee, on Saturday as saying Prague's assertions were absurd and Russia's response should be proportionate.&nbsp;

The expulsions and allegations come at a time of heightened Russian-Western tensions and have triggered the biggest dispute between the Czechs and Russia since the 1989 end of Communist rule, when Prague was under Moscow's domination for decades.&nbsp;

On Sunday, the EU’s executive commission confirmed remarks by acting Czech Foreign Minister Jan Hamacek on Twitter that the dispute would be addressed during a previously schedule EU foreign ministers' video conference on Monday.&nbsp;

Separately, Czech police said they were searching for two men in connection with serious criminal activity, who were carrying Russian passports in the names of Alexander Petrov and Ruslan Boshirov, and that the men were in the country in the days leading up to the 2014 explosion.&nbsp;

Those were the aliases used by two Russian military intelligence (GRU) officers, who British prosecutors charged with the attempted poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia with the nerve agent Novichok in the English city of Salisbury in 2018. Moscow denied involvement in that incident. &nbsp;

The United States and Britain said they stood in full solidarity with the Czech Republic in the dispute with Russia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Czech Republic said on Sunday it had informed NATO and European Union allies about suspected Russian involvement in a 2014 ammunition depot explosion and the matter would be addressed at an EU foreign ministers' meeting on Monday.

The Czech Republic said on Sunday it had informed NATO and European Union allies about suspected Russian involvement in a 2014 ammunition depot explosion and the matter would be addressed at an EU foreign ministers' meeting on Monday. The central European country expelled 18 Russian embassy staff on Saturday over the issue and said investigations had linked Russian intelligence to the explosion, which killed two people. Russia's Interfax news agency cited Vladimir Dzhabarov, first deputy head of the Russian upper house's international affairs committee, on Saturday as saying Prague's assertions were absurd and Russia's response should be proportionate. The expulsions and allegations come at a time of heightened Russian-Western tensions and have triggered the biggest dispute between the Czechs and Russia since the 1989 end of Communist rule, when Prague was under Moscow's domination for decades. On Sunday, the EU’s executive commission confirmed remarks by acting Czech Foreign Minister Jan Hamacek on Twitter that the dispute would be addressed during a previously schedule EU foreign ministers' video conference on Monday. Separately, Czech police said they were searching for two men in connection with serious criminal activity, who were carrying Russian passports in the names of Alexander Petrov and Ruslan Boshirov, and that the men were in the country in the days leading up to the 2014 explosion. Those were the aliases used by two Russian military intelligence (GRU) officers, who British prosecutors charged with the attempted poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia with the nerve agent Novichok in the English city of Salisbury in 2018. Moscow denied involvement in that incident. The United States and Britain said they stood in full solidarity with the Czech Republic in the dispute with Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

EU to discuss alleged Russian link to 2014 blast in Czech Republic 

The Czech government said it will expel 18 Russian that have been identified as secret agent of Russian intelligence service SVR and GRU.

"Eighteen employees of the Russian embassy must leave our republic within 48 hours," Foreign Minister Jan Hamacek told reporters.

Czexh PM Andrej Babis said that authorities had "clear evidence"

"We have good reason to suspect the involvement of GRU officers from unit 29155 in the explosion at the ammunition warehouse in Vrbetice" in the east of the country, Babis said.

He added he had received the information on Friday, without explaining why it had taken so long.

"The explosion led to huge material damage and posed a serious threat to the lives of many local people, but above all it killed two of our fellow citizens, fathers of families," Babis said.

Hamacek, who is the interior minister and also an interim foreign minister after his predecessor was sacked earlier this week, said he was sorry the incident would "fundamentally damage Czech-Russian relations".

"We are in a situation similar to that in Britain following the attempted poisoning in Salisbury in 2018," he said, referring to the case of former Russian double agent Sergei Skripal who survived a nerve agent poisoning in Britain.

Russia denied involvement but some 300 diplomats were sent home in subsequent tit-for-tat expulsions. 
Hamacek said he had summoned Russian ambassador Alexander Zmeyevsky on Saturday evening to tell him about the decision.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Czech government said it will expel 18 Russian that have been identified as secret agent of Russian intelligence service SVR and GRU. "Eighteen employees of the Russian embassy must leave our republic within 48 hours," Foreign Minister Jan Hamacek told reporters.

The Czech government said it will expel 18 Russian that have been identified as secret agent of Russian intelligence service SVR and GRU. "Eighteen employees of the Russian embassy must leave our republic within 48 hours," Foreign Minister Jan Hamacek told reporters. Czexh PM Andrej Babis said that authorities had "clear evidence" "We have good reason to suspect the involvement of GRU officers from unit 29155 in the explosion at the ammunition warehouse in Vrbetice" in the east of the country, Babis said. He added he had received the information on Friday, without explaining why it had taken so long. "The explosion led to huge material damage and posed a serious threat to the lives of many local people, but above all it killed two of our fellow citizens, fathers of families," Babis said. Hamacek, who is the interior minister and also an interim foreign minister after his predecessor was sacked earlier this week, said he was sorry the incident would "fundamentally damage Czech-Russian relations". "We are in a situation similar to that in Britain following the attempted poisoning in Salisbury in 2018," he said, referring to the case of former Russian double agent Sergei Skripal who survived a nerve agent poisoning in Britain. Russia denied involvement but some 300 diplomats were sent home in subsequent tit-for-tat expulsions. Hamacek said he had summoned Russian ambassador Alexander Zmeyevsky on Saturday evening to tell him about the decision. (With inputs from agencies)

Czech Republic expels 18 Russian diplomats over 2014 blast

Russia on Saturday expelled a Ukrainian diplomat who it said was caught "red-handed" trying to obtain sensitive information. Although Russia has detained a number of Ukrainian nationals in recent years, expulsion of a diplomat is rare and is being seen as sign of sharply rising tensions between the two countries.

"A Ukrainian diplomat, a consul of Ukraine's Consulate General in Saint Petersburg, Alexander Sosonyuk, has been detained by Russia's FSB," the security service said in a statement, using the Russian language spelling of his name.

The diplomat was detained on Friday, the security service said. Kiev said the diplomat had spent several hours in detention.

Russian foreign ministry said later on Saturday that it had summoned Ukraine's charge d'affaires Vasyl Pokotylo and told him that the Ukranian diplomat had 72 hours to leave the country "beginning April 19"

"The Russian side pointed to the inadmissibility of such kind of activity," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

Russia's domestic intelligence agency said that Sosnyuk had been caught "red-handed" during a meeting with a Russian national as he sought to receive "classified" information.&nbsp;

"Such activity is not compatible with his diplomatic status and is of clearly hostile nature towards the Russian Federation," the FSB said.

Tensions between Russia and Ukraine have seen sharp escalation in recent weeks. On Saturday, Russia reinforced its naval presence in the Black Sea by sending two warships. These ships are capable of carrying tanks and troops for assault landings.

Ukraine has been accusing Russia of having built up military presence on its borders to destroy "Ukrainian statehood"

Moscow claims that the troop build-up is defensive in nature.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Saturday expelled a Ukrainian diplomat who it said was caught "red-handed" trying to obtain sensitive information. Although Russia has detained a number of Ukrainian nationals in recent years, expulsion of a diplomat is rare and is being seen as sign of sharply rising tensions between the two countries.

Russia on Saturday expelled a Ukrainian diplomat who it said was caught "red-handed" trying to obtain sensitive information. Although Russia has detained a number of Ukrainian nationals in recent years, expulsion of a diplomat is rare and is being seen as sign of sharply rising tensions between the two countries. "A Ukrainian diplomat, a consul of Ukraine's Consulate General in Saint Petersburg, Alexander Sosonyuk, has been detained by Russia's FSB," the security service said in a statement, using the Russian language spelling of his name. The diplomat was detained on Friday, the security service said. Kiev said the diplomat had spent several hours in detention. Russian foreign ministry said later on Saturday that it had summoned Ukraine's charge d'affaires Vasyl Pokotylo and told him that the Ukranian diplomat had 72 hours to leave the country "beginning April 19" "The Russian side pointed to the inadmissibility of such kind of activity," the foreign ministry said in a statement. Russia's domestic intelligence agency said that Sosnyuk had been caught "red-handed" during a meeting with a Russian national as he sought to receive "classified" information. "Such activity is not compatible with his diplomatic status and is of clearly hostile nature towards the Russian Federation," the FSB said. Tensions between Russia and Ukraine have seen sharp escalation in recent weeks. On Saturday, Russia reinforced its naval presence in the Black Sea by sending two warships. These ships are capable of carrying tanks and troops for assault landings. Ukraine has been accusing Russia of having built up military presence on its borders to destroy "Ukrainian statehood" Moscow claims that the troop build-up is defensive in nature. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia expels Ukrainian diplomat after detaining him amid border tensions

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