Oil prices were little changed on Wednesday, steadying after Saudi Arabia said it will restore by the end of the month production lost in weekend attacks on its facilities.

Prices plummeted 6 per cent on Tuesday after Saudi Arabia's energy minister said the country had managed to restore oil supplies to customers to where they stood before the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-aramco-pursues-ipo-planning-despite-attack-damage-doubts-250228">attacks</a> on its facilities that shut 5 per cent of global oil output by drawing from its huge inventories.

But tension in the region remained elevated after the United States said it believed the attacks on the world's top oil exporter originated in southwestern Iran. Iran has denied involvement in the strikes.

Brent crude oil futures were flat at $64.55 a barrel by 0732 GMT. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were down 15 cents, or 0.1 per cent, to $59.19 a barrel, after sinking 5.7 per cent on Tuesday.

"Considering limited spare (production) capacity outside Saudi Arabia and risks of renewed attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure, a risk premium is likely to stay on oil prices in the foreseeable future," UBS analysts said in a note.

Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman said on Tuesday that average oil production in September and October would be 9.89 million barrels per day and that the world's top oil exporter would ensure full oil supply commitments to its customers this month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-aramco-trading-arm-wants-refined-products-after-attacks-sources-250148">Saudi Aramco</a> has informed some Asian refiners that it will supply full allocated volumes of crude oil in October, albeit with some changes.

Relations between the United States and Iran have deteriorated since US President Donald Trump pulled out of the Iran nuclear accord last year and reimposed sanctions on its oil exports.

Tehran on Tuesday ruled out talks with Trump.

"The oil market is facing challenging times. Recent attacks on oil facilities in Saudi Arabia have painfully demonstrated the risks to oil supply, which is why short-term price spikes are possible at any time," Commerzbank analyst Carsten Fritsch said.

Still, fundamental supply and demand balances in the oil market are deteriorating, Fritsch added, forecasting Brent oil prices of $60 a barrel next year.

"Demand growth is weakening, oil supply outside OPEC is rising significantly and OPEC+'s production discipline has recently faded," he said.

The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and a number of other producing nations including Russia agreed last year to cut output by 1.2 million bpd to reduce global stocks and prop up prices.

US crude inventories rose by 592,000 barrels in the week ended Sept. 13 to 422.5 million, data from industry group the American Petroleum Institute showed on Tuesday. Analysts had expected a decrease of 2.5 million barrels.

Official US government data will be released later on Wednesday.

Oil prices were little changed on Wednesday, steadying after Saudi Arabia said it will restore by the end of the month production lost in weekend attacks on its facilities.

Oil prices were little changed on Wednesday, steadying after Saudi Arabia said it will restore by the end of the month production lost in weekend attacks on its facilities. Prices plummeted 6 per cent on Tuesday after Saudi Arabia's energy minister said the country had managed to restore oil supplies to customers to where they stood before the attacks on its facilities that shut 5 per cent of global oil output by drawing from its huge inventories. But tension in the region remained elevated after the United States said it believed the attacks on the world's top oil exporter originated in southwestern Iran. Iran has denied involvement in the strikes. Brent crude oil futures were flat at $64.55 a barrel by 0732 GMT. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were down 15 cents, or 0.1 per cent, to $59.19 a barrel, after sinking 5.7 per cent on Tuesday. "Considering limited spare (production) capacity outside Saudi Arabia and risks of renewed attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure, a risk premium is likely to stay on oil prices in the foreseeable future," UBS analysts said in a note. Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman said on Tuesday that average oil production in September and October would be 9.89 million barrels per day and that the world's top oil exporter would ensure full oil supply commitments to its customers this month. Saudi Aramco has informed some Asian refiners that it will supply full allocated volumes of crude oil in October, albeit with some changes. Relations between the United States and Iran have deteriorated since US President Donald Trump pulled out of the Iran nuclear accord last year and reimposed sanctions on its oil exports. Tehran on Tuesday ruled out talks with Trump. "The oil market is facing challenging times. Recent attacks on oil facilities in Saudi Arabia have painfully demonstrated the risks to oil supply, which is why short-term price spikes are possible at any time," Commerzbank analyst Carsten Fritsch said. Still, fundamental supply and demand balances in the oil market are deteriorating, Fritsch added, forecasting Brent oil prices of $60 a barrel next year. "Demand growth is weakening, oil supply outside OPEC is rising significantly and OPEC+'s production discipline has recently faded," he said. The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and a number of other producing nations including Russia agreed last year to cut output by 1.2 million bpd to reduce global stocks and prop up prices. US crude inventories rose by 592,000 barrels in the week ended Sept. 13 to 422.5 million, data from industry group the American Petroleum Institute showed on Tuesday. Analysts had expected a decrease of 2.5 million barrels. Official US government data will be released later on Wednesday.

Oil steadies after Saudi pledges to restore output lost in attacks

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-launches-floating-nuclear-reactor-in-arctic-despite-warnings-244918">Russia's world-first floating nuclear power station</a> on Saturday completed a 5,000-kilometre (3,100-mile) Arctic transfer to the country's far east, the Rosatom nuclear agency said.

"The Akademik Lomonosov floating nuclear plant arrived at Pevek, in the autonomous district of Chukotka," where it is to start operating by year-end once connected to the local electricity grid, Rosatom said.

What will be the world's northernmost nuclear power plant left Murmansk in Russia's far north on August 23 after being loaded with combustible nuclear fuel?

The 21-ton, 144-metre (470 feet) long and 30-metre wide platform, which is designed to meet the energy needs of remote communities, was towed into Pevek by a clutch of vessels.

The station houses two 35-megawatt reactors, more in line with the power of nuclear-powered ice breakers than typical new-generation nuclear plants boasting nearer 1,000 MW capacity.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-floating-nuclear-reactor-ready-for-arctic-operations-environmentalists-concerned-232605">Akademik Lomonosov</a>&nbsp;is to provide energy for around 100,000 people and also power oil platforms as Russia develops extraction of natural resources in a mineral-rich area whose eastern tip is a few dozen kilometres from Alaska.

"It is perhaps a small step towards sustainable development in the Arctic&nbsp;but it's a giant step towards decarbonisation of remote, off-grid zones and a turning point in the global development of small modular nuclear plants," Rosatom head Alexei Likhachev said in a statement.

Environmental groups led by Greenpeace Russia have, however, long criticised the project warning it will have "serious consequences" for a fragile ecosystem in case of storms or accidents.

Greenpeace has warned of the risk of a "nuclear Titanic" and "Chernobyl on ice" and environmental fears were heightened following an August explosion at a nuclear research facility in Russia's far north which saw local radiation levels briefly spike.

The nuclear industry generally has been looking to reinvent itself in a depressed market, notably by producing small-scale, modular reactors with attractive price tags to win over potential new clients.

The industry has been cheered by strong demand notably for nuclear-powered submarines as well as ice-breakers and aircraft carriers, increasingly destined for isolated and infrastructure-poor regions.

Russia's world-first floating nuclear power station on Saturday completed a 5,000-kilometre (3,100-mile) Arctic transfer to the country's far east, the Rosatom nuclear agency said.

Russia's world-first floating nuclear power station on Saturday completed a 5,000-kilometre (3,100-mile) Arctic transfer to the country's far east, the Rosatom nuclear agency said. "The Akademik Lomonosov floating nuclear plant arrived at Pevek, in the autonomous district of Chukotka," where it is to start operating by year-end once connected to the local electricity grid, Rosatom said. What will be the world's northernmost nuclear power plant left Murmansk in Russia's far north on August 23 after being loaded with combustible nuclear fuel? The 21-ton, 144-metre (470 feet) long and 30-metre wide platform, which is designed to meet the energy needs of remote communities, was towed into Pevek by a clutch of vessels. The station houses two 35-megawatt reactors, more in line with the power of nuclear-powered ice breakers than typical new-generation nuclear plants boasting nearer 1,000 MW capacity. The Akademik Lomonosov is to provide energy for around 100,000 people and also power oil platforms as Russia develops extraction of natural resources in a mineral-rich area whose eastern tip is a few dozen kilometres from Alaska. "It is perhaps a small step towards sustainable development in the Arctic but it's a giant step towards decarbonisation of remote, off-grid zones and a turning point in the global development of small modular nuclear plants," Rosatom head Alexei Likhachev said in a statement. Environmental groups led by Greenpeace Russia have, however, long criticised the project warning it will have "serious consequences" for a fragile ecosystem in case of storms or accidents. Greenpeace has warned of the risk of a "nuclear Titanic" and "Chernobyl on ice" and environmental fears were heightened following an August explosion at a nuclear research facility in Russia's far north which saw local radiation levels briefly spike. The nuclear industry generally has been looking to reinvent itself in a depressed market, notably by producing small-scale, modular reactors with attractive price tags to win over potential new clients. The industry has been cheered by strong demand notably for nuclear-powered submarines as well as ice-breakers and aircraft carriers, increasingly destined for isolated and infrastructure-poor regions.

Russia's world-first floating nuclear plant arrives in port

A Taliban delegation held talks with Russian officials in Moscow after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-now-dead-us-taliban-talks-lacked-strategic-vision-248969">US negotiations with the Afghan insurgents</a> collapsed, the Russian foreign ministry said Saturday.

"The Russian president's special representative for Afghanistan ... , Zamir Kabulov, hosted a Taliban delegation in Moscow," a ministry spokesman said, quoted by RIA Novosti state-funded news agency.

No date for the talks was given.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/american-trust-in-pakistan-and-taliban-difficult-to-comprehend-249470">American trust in Pakistan and Taliban difficult to comprehend</a>

"The Russian side stressed the need to relaunch negotiations between the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/wion-edit-us-taliban-talks-cancelled-impact-on-india-248667">United States and the Taliban </a>movement," the spokesman said.

"For their part, the Taliban confirmed their willingness to pursue dialogue with Washington," he added.

Until a week ago expectation had steadily mounted of a US-Taliban deal that would see the US drawdown of troop levels in Afghanistan and the Taliban offer security guarantees to keep extremist groups out.

But last Saturday, Trump revealed he had cancelled an unprecedented meeting between the Taliban and himself in the United States and declared the talks with the militants "dead".

With more than 13,000 US troops still in Afghanistan, Trump has been eager to end America's longest war, launched 18 years ago after the September 11 attacks.

But fears are now growing of increased violence with presidential elections set for September 28 in Afghanistan.

The vote, the fourth since the fall of the Taliban in 2001, has already been delayed twice this year.

Government forces and Taliban have been engaged in heavy exchanges across the nation, with the militants vowing to continue fighting and make the US regret walking away from talks.&nbsp;

Russia has been trying to influence the peace negotiations and staged two meetings in Moscow with Afghan political leaders at the start of the year.

A Taliban delegation held talks with Russian officials in Moscow after US negotiations with the Afghan insurgents collapsed, the Russian foreign ministry said Saturday.

A Taliban delegation held talks with Russian officials in Moscow after US negotiations with the Afghan insurgents collapsed, the Russian foreign ministry said Saturday. "The Russian president's special representative for Afghanistan ... , Zamir Kabulov, hosted a Taliban delegation in Moscow," a ministry spokesman said, quoted by RIA Novosti state-funded news agency. No date for the talks was given. Also read: American trust in Pakistan and Taliban difficult to comprehend "The Russian side stressed the need to relaunch negotiations between the United States and the Taliban movement," the spokesman said. "For their part, the Taliban confirmed their willingness to pursue dialogue with Washington," he added. Until a week ago expectation had steadily mounted of a US-Taliban deal that would see the US drawdown of troop levels in Afghanistan and the Taliban offer security guarantees to keep extremist groups out. But last Saturday, Trump revealed he had cancelled an unprecedented meeting between the Taliban and himself in the United States and declared the talks with the militants "dead". With more than 13,000 US troops still in Afghanistan, Trump has been eager to end America's longest war, launched 18 years ago after the September 11 attacks. But fears are now growing of increased violence with presidential elections set for September 28 in Afghanistan. The vote, the fourth since the fall of the Taliban in 2001, has already been delayed twice this year. Government forces and Taliban have been engaged in heavy exchanges across the nation, with the militants vowing to continue fighting and make the US regret walking away from talks. Russia has been trying to influence the peace negotiations and staged two meetings in Moscow with Afghan political leaders at the start of the year.

Moscow holds talks with Taliban as US peace deal collapses: Russian foreign ministry

Oil slipped to around $60 a barrel on Friday as concern about a slowdown in the global economy and oil demand outweighed hints of progress in the US-China trade dispute.

OPEC and the International Energy Agency (IEA) both issued reports this week pointing to an oil surplus next year, despite a pact by OPEC and its allies, a producer alliance known as OPEC+, to limit supplies. The deal runs until March.

"In order to avoid a price slide and a massive inventory build, OPEC+ would need to implement further voluntary production cuts," said Eugen Weinberg, analyst at Commerzbank.

"The challenge facing OPEC+ is thus likely to become even bigger next year, maintaining the pressure on the oil price."

Benchmark Brent crude was down 20 cents at $60.18 a barrel by 0955 GMT, while<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-briefly-overtakes-saudi-arabia-as-top-oil-exporter-international-energy-agency-249182"> US</a> West Texas Intermediate fell 27 cents to $54.82.

Hopes of progress in the US-China trade dispute lent support. The world's two largest economies are preparing for a new round of talks aimed at curbing the spat and have been making conciliatory gestures, cheering investors.

"Both sides have made further displays of goodwill," said Stephen Brennock of broker PVM. "The upshot is that no further deterioration in the economic environment is expected, hence the downside for oil prices should be limited in the near term."

Brent has traded in a range of nearly $5 this week and is heading for its first weekly loss in five weeks. The US benchmark, similarly volatile, was on track for the first weekly drop in three weeks.

Brent is up 12 per cent in 2019, helped by the deal between the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies including Russia to cut output by 1.2 million barrels per day.

The producers are trying to stop inventories from building up and, in a sign, the plan is bearing fruit, US crude oil stocks fell last week to the lowest in nearly a year.

An OPEC+ monitoring committee met this week and secured pledges from<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-hits-six-week-high-on-hopes-of-extended-opec-output-cuts-248741"> OPEC </a>members Nigeria and Iraq to deliver their share of the cut, something they have failed to do so far, but made no progress on possibly deepening the supply curbs.

Some OPEC delegates say the idea of a larger cut for next year is gaining support. But Saudi Arabia's new energy minister said talks on that issue would be left until the next OPEC+ meeting in December.

Oil slipped to around $60 a barrel on Friday as concern about a slowdown in the global economy and oil demand outweighed hints of progress in the US-China trade dispute.

Oil slipped to around $60 a barrel on Friday as concern about a slowdown in the global economy and oil demand outweighed hints of progress in the US-China trade dispute. OPEC and the International Energy Agency (IEA) both issued reports this week pointing to an oil surplus next year, despite a pact by OPEC and its allies, a producer alliance known as OPEC+, to limit supplies. The deal runs until March. "In order to avoid a price slide and a massive inventory build, OPEC+ would need to implement further voluntary production cuts," said Eugen Weinberg, analyst at Commerzbank. "The challenge facing OPEC+ is thus likely to become even bigger next year, maintaining the pressure on the oil price." Benchmark Brent crude was down 20 cents at $60.18 a barrel by 0955 GMT, while US West Texas Intermediate fell 27 cents to $54.82. Hopes of progress in the US-China trade dispute lent support. The world's two largest economies are preparing for a new round of talks aimed at curbing the spat and have been making conciliatory gestures, cheering investors. "Both sides have made further displays of goodwill," said Stephen Brennock of broker PVM. "The upshot is that no further deterioration in the economic environment is expected, hence the downside for oil prices should be limited in the near term." Brent has traded in a range of nearly $5 this week and is heading for its first weekly loss in five weeks. The US benchmark, similarly volatile, was on track for the first weekly drop in three weeks. Brent is up 12 per cent in 2019, helped by the deal between the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies including Russia to cut output by 1.2 million barrels per day. The producers are trying to stop inventories from building up and, in a sign, the plan is bearing fruit, US crude oil stocks fell last week to the lowest in nearly a year. An OPEC+ monitoring committee met this week and secured pledges from OPEC members Nigeria and Iraq to deliver their share of the cut, something they have failed to do so far, but made no progress on possibly deepening the supply curbs. Some OPEC delegates say the idea of a larger cut for next year is gaining support. But Saudi Arabia's new energy minister said talks on that issue would be left until the next OPEC+ meeting in December.

Oil slips towards $60 on demand worries, despite trade hopes

Former US National Security Agency contractor and world-famous whistleblower in exile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-national-security-agency-contractor-edward-snowden-publishing-memoir-240086">Edward Snowden</a>, said that he would return to the United States, only if he could hope for a fair trial there.

Snowden currently lives in Russia and faces charges of breaking confidentiality laws back in the United States.

In a phone interview with National Public Radio, Snowden said that if returned to the United States, he would seek an opportunity to tell a jury why he had leaked classified information to make them understand for themselves whether the materials deserved to be leaked.

"You can't have a fair trial about the disclosure of information unless the jury can evaluate whether it was right or wrong to reveal this information," he said, adding that returning back only to be sentenced would not be a good example for others who are in a similar situation.

According to Snowden, nobody becomes a whistleblower due to a special desire to do so and "no one becomes a whistleblower because it has a happy ending."

Snowden noted that it was not his choice to live in Russia, adding that he had sought asylum in 27 countries. The Russian intelligence services pursued cooperation with him, but he rejected the offer and spent 40 days at the airport.

"If I had played ball, I would have left on Day 1 in a limo; I would have been living in a palace; you would have seen them giving me parades in Red Square ... The reality is this: I had destroyed my access to all the classified material that I provided to journalists before leaving Hong Kong, precisely because I didn't know what was going to happen next," Snowden stressed.

Snowden recalled that he disagreed with Russia's government and President Vladimir Putin on a number of issues.

In 2013, Snowden leaked classified documents that exposed mass surveillance by US authorities around the globe. Snowden fled to Hong Kong, then to Russia, which granted him temporary asylum for one year. In 2014, Snowden received a three-year residence permit to live in Russia, which was later extended until 2020.

Former US National Security Agency contractor and world-famous whistleblower in exile, Edward Snowden, said that he would return to the United States, only if he could hope for a fair trial there.

Former US National Security Agency contractor and world-famous whistleblower in exile, Edward Snowden, said that he would return to the United States, only if he could hope for a fair trial there. Snowden currently lives in Russia and faces charges of breaking confidentiality laws back in the United States. In a phone interview with National Public Radio, Snowden said that if returned to the United States, he would seek an opportunity to tell a jury why he had leaked classified information to make them understand for themselves whether the materials deserved to be leaked. "You can't have a fair trial about the disclosure of information unless the jury can evaluate whether it was right or wrong to reveal this information," he said, adding that returning back only to be sentenced would not be a good example for others who are in a similar situation. According to Snowden, nobody becomes a whistleblower due to a special desire to do so and "no one becomes a whistleblower because it has a happy ending." Snowden noted that it was not his choice to live in Russia, adding that he had sought asylum in 27 countries. The Russian intelligence services pursued cooperation with him, but he rejected the offer and spent 40 days at the airport. "If I had played ball, I would have left on Day 1 in a limo; I would have been living in a palace; you would have seen them giving me parades in Red Square ... The reality is this: I had destroyed my access to all the classified material that I provided to journalists before leaving Hong Kong, precisely because I didn't know what was going to happen next," Snowden stressed. Snowden recalled that he disagreed with Russia's government and President Vladimir Putin on a number of issues. In 2013, Snowden leaked classified documents that exposed mass surveillance by US authorities around the globe. Snowden fled to Hong Kong, then to Russia, which granted him temporary asylum for one year. In 2014, Snowden received a three-year residence permit to live in Russia, which was later extended until 2020.

Would return to US if provided chance for fair trial: Snowden

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-rises-as-saudi-signals-opec-cuts-to-continue-under-new-minister-248572">OPEC</a> on Wednesday cut its forecast for growth in world <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-edges-down-on-lower-demand-outlook-us-china-trade-dispute-242428">oil demand</a> in 2020 due to an economic slowdown, an outlook the producer group said highlighted the need for ongoing efforts to prevent a new glut of crude.

In a monthly report, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-hits-six-week-high-on-hopes-of-extended-opec-output-cuts-248741">oil</a> demand worldwide would expand by 1.08 million barrels per day, 60,000 BPD&nbsp;less than previously estimated, and indicated the market would be in surplus.

The weaker outlook amid a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-china-trade-war-in-10-dates-241155#march-8-2018-tax-on-steel-aluminium-241132">US-China trade war</a>&nbsp;and Brexit could press the case for OPEC and its allies to maintain or adjust their policy of cutting output.

Iraq said ministers would on Thursday discuss whether deeper cuts were needed.

OPEC, in the report, lowered its forecast for world economic growth in 2020 to 3.1 per cent&nbsp;from 3.2 per cent&nbsp;and said next year's increase in oil demand would be outpaced by "strong growth" in supply from rival producers such as the United States.

"This highlights the shared responsibility of all producing countries to support oil market stability to avoid unwanted volatility and a potential relapse into market imbalance," the report said.

OPEC, Russia and other producers have since January&nbsp;1 implemented a deal to cut output by 1.2 million BPD. The alliance, known as OPEC+, in July renewed the pact until March 2020 and a committee reviewing the pact meets on Thursday.

Oil prices pared an earlier gain after the report was released to sit just below $63 a barrel.

Despite the OPEC-led cut, oil has tumbled from April's 2019 peak above $75, pressured by trade concerns and an economic slowdown.

The report said oil inventories in industrialised economies fell in July, a development that could ease OPEC concern over a possible glut.

Even so, stocks in July exceeded the five-year average,&nbsp;a yardstick OPEC watches closely&nbsp;by 36 million barrels.

OPEC and its partners have been limiting supply since 2017, helping to clear a glut that built up in 2014-2016 when producers pumped at will, and revive prices.

The policy has given a sustained boost to US&nbsp;shale and other rival supply, and the report suggests the world will need less OPEC crude next year.

Demand for OPEC crude will average 29.40 million BPD in 2020, OPEC said, down 1.2 million BPD from this year.

OPEC said its oil output in August rose, however, by 136,000 bpd to 29.74 million BPD according to figures the group collects from secondary sources.

It was the first increase this year. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/saudi-arabia-replaces-aramco-chairman-ahead-of-potential-ipo-247313">Saudi Arabia</a>, Iraq and Nigeria boosted supply.

Top exporter Saudi Arabia told OPEC that the kingdom raised August output by just over 200,000 BPD to 9.789 million BPD. Saudi Arabia continues to pump far less than its quota of 10.311 BPD.

Thanks in part to Saudi restraint, producers are still over-complying with the supply-cutting deal. Losses in Iran and Venezuela, two OPEC members facing US sanctions, have widened the supply reduction.

August's increase, however, puts OPEC output further above the 2020 demand forecast.

The report suggests there will be a 2020 supply surplus of 340,000 BPD if OPEC keeps pumping at August's rate and other things remain equal, more than the surplus forecast in last month's report.

OPEC on Wednesday cut its forecast for growth in world oil demand in 2020 due to an economic slowdown, an outlook the producer group said highlighted the need for ongoing efforts to prevent a new glut of crude.

OPEC on Wednesday cut its forecast for growth in world oil demand in 2020 due to an economic slowdown, an outlook the producer group said highlighted the need for ongoing efforts to prevent a new glut of crude. In a monthly report, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries said oil demand worldwide would expand by 1.08 million barrels per day, 60,000 BPD less than previously estimated, and indicated the market would be in surplus. The weaker outlook amid a US-China trade war and Brexit could press the case for OPEC and its allies to maintain or adjust their policy of cutting output. Iraq said ministers would on Thursday discuss whether deeper cuts were needed. OPEC, in the report, lowered its forecast for world economic growth in 2020 to 3.1 per cent from 3.2 per cent and said next year's increase in oil demand would be outpaced by "strong growth" in supply from rival producers such as the United States. "This highlights the shared responsibility of all producing countries to support oil market stability to avoid unwanted volatility and a potential relapse into market imbalance," the report said. OPEC, Russia and other producers have since January 1 implemented a deal to cut output by 1.2 million BPD. The alliance, known as OPEC+, in July renewed the pact until March 2020 and a committee reviewing the pact meets on Thursday. Oil prices pared an earlier gain after the report was released to sit just below $63 a barrel. Despite the OPEC-led cut, oil has tumbled from April's 2019 peak above $75, pressured by trade concerns and an economic slowdown. The report said oil inventories in industrialised economies fell in July, a development that could ease OPEC concern over a possible glut. Even so, stocks in July exceeded the five-year average, a yardstick OPEC watches closely by 36 million barrels. OPEC and its partners have been limiting supply since 2017, helping to clear a glut that built up in 2014-2016 when producers pumped at will, and revive prices. The policy has given a sustained boost to US shale and other rival supply, and the report suggests the world will need less OPEC crude next year. Demand for OPEC crude will average 29.40 million BPD in 2020, OPEC said, down 1.2 million BPD from this year. OPEC said its oil output in August rose, however, by 136,000 bpd to 29.74 million BPD according to figures the group collects from secondary sources. It was the first increase this year. Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Nigeria boosted supply. Top exporter Saudi Arabia told OPEC that the kingdom raised August output by just over 200,000 BPD to 9.789 million BPD. Saudi Arabia continues to pump far less than its quota of 10.311 BPD. Thanks in part to Saudi restraint, producers are still over-complying with the supply-cutting deal. Losses in Iran and Venezuela, two OPEC members facing US sanctions, have widened the supply reduction. August's increase, however, puts OPEC output further above the 2020 demand forecast. The report suggests there will be a 2020 supply surplus of 340,000 BPD if OPEC keeps pumping at August's rate and other things remain equal, more than the surplus forecast in last month's report.

OPEC cuts 2020 oil demand forecast, urges effort to avert a new glut

Oil prices rose on Wednesday after a reported sharp drop in US&nbsp;crude stocks and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-rises-as-saudi-signals-opec-cuts-to-continue-under-new-minister-248572">OPEC</a>&nbsp;member Iraq said the producer group would discuss deepening output cuts amid ongoing demand concerns.

Brent crude gained 52 cents, or 0.8 per cent, to $62.90 a barrel by 1027 GMT, while US&nbsp;West Texas Intermediate rose 60 cents, or 1.1 per cent, to $58 a barrel.

Oil prices have risen more than 7 per cent this&nbsp;month, supported by declines in global inventories and signs of an easing in trade tensions between the United States and China, the world's two largest economies and energy consumers.

Prices rose this week after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-saudi-energy-minister-a-royal-with-decades-of-experience-in-opec-cuts-248719">Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman</a>, Saudi Arabia's new energy minister, said oil policy would not change and said an OPEC deal with Russia and other producers to cut output by 1.2 million barrels per day (BPD) would be maintained.

Iraqi Oil Minister Thamer Ghadhban said the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries would discuss whether to deepen cuts when ministers meet on Thursday.

He said OPEC had discussed cuts of 1.6 million to 1.8 million BPD when considering output curbs last year.

Russia's Energy Minister Alexander Novak said an alliance of OPEC and other producers, known as OPEC+, would discuss global oil demand, but added that there were no fresh proposals to change production cut volumes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-hits-six-week-high-on-hopes-of-extended-opec-output-cuts-248741">OPEC cut</a> its forecast on Wednesday for growth in world oil demand in 2020 by 60,000 BPD to 1.08 million BPD, due to an economic slowdown.

It indicated the market would be in surplus.

The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) also slashed its demand forecasts this week.

Growing signs of a slowdown were flagged by oil traders and executives attending industry gatherings in Singapore and Abu Dhabi this week.

OPEC has pointed to rising global production next year, particularly in US shale fields, while data from the American Petroleum Institute (API) showed US&nbsp;crude stocks fell last week by 7.2 million barrels, more than twice the amount analysts in a Reuters poll had forecast.

"The API report is quite constructive for the oil market as it points to a tightening domestic oil market in the face of flat production and stronger demand," Dutch bank ING said.

The EIA's official numbers for US&nbsp;inventories will be released at 1430 GMT on Wednesday.

Oil prices rose on Wednesday after a reported sharp drop in US crude stocks and OPEC member Iraq said the producer group would discuss deepening output cuts amid ongoing demand concerns.

Oil prices rose on Wednesday after a reported sharp drop in US crude stocks and OPEC member Iraq said the producer group would discuss deepening output cuts amid ongoing demand concerns. Brent crude gained 52 cents, or 0.8 per cent, to $62.90 a barrel by 1027 GMT, while US West Texas Intermediate rose 60 cents, or 1.1 per cent, to $58 a barrel. Oil prices have risen more than 7 per cent this month, supported by declines in global inventories and signs of an easing in trade tensions between the United States and China, the world's two largest economies and energy consumers. Prices rose this week after Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, Saudi Arabia's new energy minister, said oil policy would not change and said an OPEC deal with Russia and other producers to cut output by 1.2 million barrels per day (BPD) would be maintained. Iraqi Oil Minister Thamer Ghadhban said the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries would discuss whether to deepen cuts when ministers meet on Thursday. He said OPEC had discussed cuts of 1.6 million to 1.8 million BPD when considering output curbs last year. Russia's Energy Minister Alexander Novak said an alliance of OPEC and other producers, known as OPEC+, would discuss global oil demand, but added that there were no fresh proposals to change production cut volumes. OPEC cut its forecast on Wednesday for growth in world oil demand in 2020 by 60,000 BPD to 1.08 million BPD, due to an economic slowdown. It indicated the market would be in surplus. The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) also slashed its demand forecasts this week. Growing signs of a slowdown were flagged by oil traders and executives attending industry gatherings in Singapore and Abu Dhabi this week. OPEC has pointed to rising global production next year, particularly in US shale fields, while data from the American Petroleum Institute (API) showed US crude stocks fell last week by 7.2 million barrels, more than twice the amount analysts in a Reuters poll had forecast. "The API report is quite constructive for the oil market as it points to a tightening domestic oil market in the face of flat production and stronger demand," Dutch bank ING said. The EIA's official numbers for US inventories will be released at 1430 GMT on Wednesday.

International oil prices gain after fall in US stocks

Polish border guards armed with machine guns have boarded Greenpeace's Rainbow Warrior ship, which was blocking a cargo of coal from being unloaded at the port of Gdansk, the environmental group said Tuesday.

The overnight intervention by a special unit was confirmed by a spokeswoman for the Polish border guards, Agnieszka Golias, who added that of the 18 people on board, only two were detained: the captain and one of the activists.

The others were released following identity checks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-power-consumption-from-internet-data-may-result-in-higher-carbon-emissions-study-248605">Greenpeace </a>said in a statement that the Monday operation was meant to call attention to the Polish government's policies that favour using coal&nbsp;a dirty fuel that contributes significantly to global warming.

"Poland must abandon burning coal by 2030," Pawel Szypulski, programme director of Greenpeace Polska, said in the statement referring to the target date for the phasing out of coal use in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-radioactive-isotopes-released-by-missile-test-blast-245818">European Union</a>.

Under the 2015 Paris climate treaty, the EU pledged to reduce its carbon emissions responsible for causing rising<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-picks-borneo-island-for-new-capital-245893"> global temperatures</a> by 40 per cent below 1990 levels by 2030.

Greenpeace activists also painted "stop coal" in large white letters on the side of the cargo vessel carrying the shipment of coal from Mozambique.

Poland's right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) government plans only a gradual reduction in dependence on coal for electricity production, from around 80 per cent today to 60 per cent in 2030.

Poland along with Hungary has rejected an EU bid for zero net greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, insisting this would hamper their economies.

Polish border guards armed with machine guns have boarded Greenpeace's Rainbow Warrior ship, which was blocking a cargo of coal from being unloaded at the port of Gdansk, the environmental group said Tuesday.

Polish border guards armed with machine guns have boarded Greenpeace's Rainbow Warrior ship, which was blocking a cargo of coal from being unloaded at the port of Gdansk, the environmental group said Tuesday. The overnight intervention by a special unit was confirmed by a spokeswoman for the Polish border guards, Agnieszka Golias, who added that of the 18 people on board, only two were detained: the captain and one of the activists. The others were released following identity checks. Greenpeace said in a statement that the Monday operation was meant to call attention to the Polish government's policies that favour using coal a dirty fuel that contributes significantly to global warming. "Poland must abandon burning coal by 2030," Pawel Szypulski, programme director of Greenpeace Polska, said in the statement referring to the target date for the phasing out of coal use in the European Union. Under the 2015 Paris climate treaty, the EU pledged to reduce its carbon emissions responsible for causing rising global temperatures by 40 per cent below 1990 levels by 2030. Greenpeace activists also painted "stop coal" in large white letters on the side of the cargo vessel carrying the shipment of coal from Mozambique. Poland's right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) government plans only a gradual reduction in dependence on coal for electricity production, from around 80 per cent today to 60 per cent in 2030. Poland along with Hungary has rejected an EU bid for zero net greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, insisting this would hamper their economies.

Polish border guards board Greenpeace Rainbow Warrior ship

Oil futures hit a six-week high on Tuesday, rising for a fifth day on optimism that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-rises-as-saudi-signals-opec-cuts-to-continue-under-new-minister-248572">OPEC</a> and other countries may agree to extend production cuts in a bid to support prices.

Brent was up 26 cents, or 0.4 per cent, at $62.85 a barrel by 0349 GMT, while US&nbsp;crude was 27 cents, or 0.5 per cent, higher at $58.12 a barrel. Brent touched its highest since August 1, while US crude rose to the highest since July 31.

US oil gained more than 2 per cent&nbsp;on Monday, while Brent finished the day 1.7 per cent&nbsp;higher as the market reacted to the appointment by Saudi Arabia's king of his son, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, as energy minister on Sunday.

Prince Abdulaziz, a long-time member of the Saudi delegation to the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), said the pillars of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/saudi-arabia-replaces-aramco-chairman-ahead-of-potential-ipo-247313">Saudi Arabia</a>'s policy would not change and a global deal to cut oil production by 1.2 million barrels per day would be maintained.

He added that the so-called OPEC+ alliance, made up of OPEC and non-OPEC countries including Russia, would be in place for the long term.

A meeting of OPEC and OPEC+ countries in Abu Dhabi this week "is stirring up hopes for additional supply cuts," said Stephen Innes, Asia Pacific market strategist at AxiTrader.&nbsp;

Still, Russia's oil output in August exceeded its quota under the OPEC+ agreements.

"Markets will need to see concrete progress on the production front, even as the world's economy slows, to sustain gains," said Jeffrey Halley, senior market analyst at OANDA.

Should oil end Tuesday higher it will be the longest run of gains since late July but headwinds remain as the US-China trade war rumbles on.

Executives at the annual Asia Pacific Petroleum Conference said on Monday they expect oil prices this year to be pressured by uncertainties surrounding the global economy, the US-China trade war and increasing US supplies.

In the United States, crude stockpiles are likely to have fallen for a fourth consecutive week last week, a preliminary Reuters poll showed on Monday. 
Five analysts polled by Reuters estimated, on average, that crude inventories fell 2.6 million barrels in the week to Sept 6.

Oil futures hit a six-week high on Tuesday, rising for a fifth day on optimism that OPEC and other countries may agree to extend production cuts in a bid to support prices.

Oil futures hit a six-week high on Tuesday, rising for a fifth day on optimism that OPEC and other countries may agree to extend production cuts in a bid to support prices. Brent was up 26 cents, or 0.4 per cent, at $62.85 a barrel by 0349 GMT, while US crude was 27 cents, or 0.5 per cent, higher at $58.12 a barrel. Brent touched its highest since August 1, while US crude rose to the highest since July 31. US oil gained more than 2 per cent on Monday, while Brent finished the day 1.7 per cent higher as the market reacted to the appointment by Saudi Arabia's king of his son, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, as energy minister on Sunday. Prince Abdulaziz, a long-time member of the Saudi delegation to the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), said the pillars of Saudi Arabia's policy would not change and a global deal to cut oil production by 1.2 million barrels per day would be maintained. He added that the so-called OPEC+ alliance, made up of OPEC and non-OPEC countries including Russia, would be in place for the long term. A meeting of OPEC and OPEC+ countries in Abu Dhabi this week "is stirring up hopes for additional supply cuts," said Stephen Innes, Asia Pacific market strategist at AxiTrader. Still, Russia's oil output in August exceeded its quota under the OPEC+ agreements. "Markets will need to see concrete progress on the production front, even as the world's economy slows, to sustain gains," said Jeffrey Halley, senior market analyst at OANDA. Should oil end Tuesday higher it will be the longest run of gains since late July but headwinds remain as the US-China trade war rumbles on. Executives at the annual Asia Pacific Petroleum Conference said on Monday they expect oil prices this year to be pressured by uncertainties surrounding the global economy, the US-China trade war and increasing US supplies. In the United States, crude stockpiles are likely to have fallen for a fourth consecutive week last week, a preliminary Reuters poll showed on Monday. Five analysts polled by Reuters estimated, on average, that crude inventories fell 2.6 million barrels in the week to Sept 6.

Oil hits six-week high on hopes of extended OPEC output cuts

Russia and Ukraine carried out a long-awaited <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mh17-suspect-among-prisoners-swapped-by-ukraine-with-russia-dutch-government-248309">prisoner swap</a> on Saturday (September 7). The step could thaw a deep freeze in relations since Moscow's annexation of the Crimea region in 2014.

A Russian aircraft carrying freed Russian prisoners from Kiev landed in Moscow while a Ukrainian plane with released Ukrainian prisoners aboard touched down in Kiev.

<img alt="Ukraine-Russia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dbbfd899-edab-45a9-83d3-563f5a6f81f8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%286%29_2.jpg" />

Relatives of Ukrainian prisoners, included in the Russia-Ukraine prisoner swap, wait for their arrival at Borispil International Airport outside Kiev, Ukraine September 7, 2019. (Reuters Photo)

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump welcomed the Russia-Ukraine prisoner exchange Saturday as a potential step toward peace.

"Russia and Ukraine just swapped large numbers of prisoners. Very good news, perhaps a first giant step to peace. Congratulations to both countries!" Trump tweeted.

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Russia and Ukraine just swapped large numbers of prisoners. Very good news, perhaps a first giant step to peace. Congratulations to both countries!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1170333046672936965?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Ukrainian filmmaker Oleg Sentsov, whose arrest and imprisonment in Russia has been a rallying cry for the entertainment industry and human-rights groups worldwide, has been sent back to Ukraine as part of the exchange.

Sentsov was an outspoken opponent of Ukraine's former pro-Russian government and of Russia's annexation of Crimea. In May 2014, he was arrested by Russian authorities at his home in Crimea, jailed for a year in Moscow, then convicted by a military court of terrorist crimes - charges that critics say were trumped up. Sentsov was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

The Dutch government said that Ukraine has included a man suspected of involvement in the downing of a Malaysia Airlines flight over eastern Ukraine in 2014, which killed 298 people, in the swap with Russia. Volodymyr Tsemakh, whom Ukraine's security service has identified as a former commander of Russian-backed separatist forces in eastern Ukraine, was transferred to Russia in the exchange of prisoners between Moscow and Kiev, the Dutch Foreign Ministry said.

Dutch prosecutors had urged Kiev not to allow Tsemakh to travel to Russia, fearing this could jeopardize the investigation into Flight MH17. He was released on bail by a Ukrainian court on Thursday (September 5).

Russia and Ukraine carried out a long-awaited prisoner swap on Saturday (September 7). The step could thaw a deep freeze in relations since Moscow's annexation of the Crimea region in 2014.

Russia and Ukraine carried out a long-awaited prisoner swap on Saturday (September 7). The step could thaw a deep freeze in relations since Moscow's annexation of the Crimea region in 2014. A Russian aircraft carrying freed Russian prisoners from Kiev landed in Moscow while a Ukrainian plane with released Ukrainian prisoners aboard touched down in Kiev. Relatives of Ukrainian prisoners, included in the Russia-Ukraine prisoner swap, wait for their arrival at Borispil International Airport outside Kiev, Ukraine September 7, 2019. (Reuters Photo) Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump welcomed the Russia-Ukraine prisoner exchange Saturday as a potential step toward peace. "Russia and Ukraine just swapped large numbers of prisoners. Very good news, perhaps a first giant step to peace. Congratulations to both countries!" Trump tweeted. Russia and Ukraine just swapped large numbers of prisoners. Very good news, perhaps a first giant step to peace. Congratulations to both countries! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 7, 2019 × Ukrainian filmmaker Oleg Sentsov, whose arrest and imprisonment in Russia has been a rallying cry for the entertainment industry and human-rights groups worldwide, has been sent back to Ukraine as part of the exchange. Sentsov was an outspoken opponent of Ukraine's former pro-Russian government and of Russia's annexation of Crimea. In May 2014, he was arrested by Russian authorities at his home in Crimea, jailed for a year in Moscow, then convicted by a military court of terrorist crimes - charges that critics say were trumped up. Sentsov was sentenced to 20 years in prison. The Dutch government said that Ukraine has included a man suspected of involvement in the downing of a Malaysia Airlines flight over eastern Ukraine in 2014, which killed 298 people, in the swap with Russia. Volodymyr Tsemakh, whom Ukraine's security service has identified as a former commander of Russian-backed separatist forces in eastern Ukraine, was transferred to Russia in the exchange of prisoners between Moscow and Kiev, the Dutch Foreign Ministry said. Dutch prosecutors had urged Kiev not to allow Tsemakh to travel to Russia, fearing this could jeopardize the investigation into Flight MH17. He was released on bail by a Ukrainian court on Thursday (September 5).

Russia and Ukraine carry out prisoner swap, Trump calls it first giant step to peace

Ukraine has included a man suspected of involvement in the downing of a Malaysia Airlines flight over eastern Ukraine in 2014, which killed 298 people, in a prisoner swap with Russia, the Dutch government said on Saturday.

Volodymyr Tsemakh, whom Ukraine`s security service has identified as a former commander of Russian-backed separatist forces in eastern Ukraine, was transferred to Russia in an exchange of prisoners between Moscow and Kiev, the Dutch Foreign ministry said.

Dutch prosecutors had urged Kiev not to allow Tsemakh to travel to Russia, fearing this could jeopardise the investigation into Flight MH17. He was released on bail by a Ukrainian court on Thursday.

Ukraine has included a man suspected of involvement in the downing of a Malaysia Airlines flight over eastern Ukraine in 2014, which killed 298 people, in a prisoner swap with Russia, the Dutch government said on Saturday.

Ukraine has included a man suspected of involvement in the downing of a Malaysia Airlines flight over eastern Ukraine in 2014, which killed 298 people, in a prisoner swap with Russia, the Dutch government said on Saturday. Volodymyr Tsemakh, whom Ukraine`s security service has identified as a former commander of Russian-backed separatist forces in eastern Ukraine, was transferred to Russia in an exchange of prisoners between Moscow and Kiev, the Dutch Foreign ministry said. Dutch prosecutors had urged Kiev not to allow Tsemakh to travel to Russia, fearing this could jeopardise the investigation into Flight MH17. He was released on bail by a Ukrainian court on Thursday.

MH17 suspect among prisoners swapped by Ukraine with Russia: Dutch government

A long-awaited exchange of prisoners between Moscow and Kiev has begun, Russian state television reported on Saturday, broadcasting footage of buses leaving a jail in the capital.

"Buses have left the Lefortovo jail within the framework of preparations for a prisoner exchange," the Rossiya 24 news channel said.

AFP journalists at the scene saw two buses with tinted windows leaving the high-security prison in Moscow under a police convoy.

The channel said the buses had arrived at Moscow's Vnukovo airport, where there is a terminal for government flights.

On Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin said the "large-scale" prisoner exchange with Ukraine was being finalised.

The Russian leader said the swap would be "a huge step towards normalising relations" with Kiev.

It would be the first major exchange of prisoners between Ukraine and Russia since the conflict over eastern Ukraine broke out in 2014.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky raised the prospect of a prisoner swap after the comedian-turned-politician swept to power in May.

His election has revived peace efforts, with the leaders of Russia, Ukraine, Germany and France expected to meet this month for talks.&nbsp;

Last week media reports said the prisoner exchange was imminent and some Ukrainian prisoners had been moved to Moscow from their jails.&nbsp;

The apparent preparations then stalled.

It is unclear who will be part of the swap and Moscow has been tight-lipped.

But reports have suggested up to 35 prisoners on both sides could be exchanged.

The head of the defence team for 24 Ukrainian sailors captured by Russia last year said they would be part of the exchange.

"According to my information, they were put on a bus. All 24 of them," Nikolai Polozov told AFP, adding that he expected them to arrive in Ukraine "in the next few hours".

Russia has been holding the sailors since seizing three vessels last November in the most dangerous direct clash between Russia and Ukraine in years.

Among those who could be released by Russia could be film director and activist Oleg Sentsov, 43, who has become Ukraine's most famous political prisoner.&nbsp;

He was arrested in 2014 and has been serving a 20-year sentence in a Russian Arctic penal colony for planning "terrorist attacks" in Moscow-annexed Crimea.

Reports emerged last week that Sentsov had been moved to Moscow.

Ukraine could hand over Kyrylo Vyshynsky, a journalist at Russia's RIA Novosti state news agency who was released on bail late last month pending a trial for "high treason".

A Ukrainian court this week also released from detention a man investigators have described as a key witness in the downing of flight MH17.

The release of Vladimir Tsemakh, an alleged air defence specialist for pro-Russian separatists, prompted concern from the Netherlands that he may avoid questioning.

Some 13,000 people have been killed in Ukraine's conflict with Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine, which broke out shortly after Moscow annexed Crimea in 2014.

A long-awaited exchange of prisoners between Moscow and Kiev has begun, Russian state television reported on Saturday, broadcasting footage of buses leaving a jail in the capital.

A long-awaited exchange of prisoners between Moscow and Kiev has begun, Russian state television reported on Saturday, broadcasting footage of buses leaving a jail in the capital. "Buses have left the Lefortovo jail within the framework of preparations for a prisoner exchange," the Rossiya 24 news channel said. AFP journalists at the scene saw two buses with tinted windows leaving the high-security prison in Moscow under a police convoy. The channel said the buses had arrived at Moscow's Vnukovo airport, where there is a terminal for government flights. On Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin said the "large-scale" prisoner exchange with Ukraine was being finalised. The Russian leader said the swap would be "a huge step towards normalising relations" with Kiev. It would be the first major exchange of prisoners between Ukraine and Russia since the conflict over eastern Ukraine broke out in 2014. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky raised the prospect of a prisoner swap after the comedian-turned-politician swept to power in May. His election has revived peace efforts, with the leaders of Russia, Ukraine, Germany and France expected to meet this month for talks. Last week media reports said the prisoner exchange was imminent and some Ukrainian prisoners had been moved to Moscow from their jails. The apparent preparations then stalled. It is unclear who will be part of the swap and Moscow has been tight-lipped. But reports have suggested up to 35 prisoners on both sides could be exchanged. The head of the defence team for 24 Ukrainian sailors captured by Russia last year said they would be part of the exchange. "According to my information, they were put on a bus. All 24 of them," Nikolai Polozov told AFP, adding that he expected them to arrive in Ukraine "in the next few hours". Russia has been holding the sailors since seizing three vessels last November in the most dangerous direct clash between Russia and Ukraine in years. Among those who could be released by Russia could be film director and activist Oleg Sentsov, 43, who has become Ukraine's most famous political prisoner. He was arrested in 2014 and has been serving a 20-year sentence in a Russian Arctic penal colony for planning "terrorist attacks" in Moscow-annexed Crimea. Reports emerged last week that Sentsov had been moved to Moscow. Ukraine could hand over Kyrylo Vyshynsky, a journalist at Russia's RIA Novosti state news agency who was released on bail late last month pending a trial for "high treason". A Ukrainian court this week also released from detention a man investigators have described as a key witness in the downing of flight MH17. The release of Vladimir Tsemakh, an alleged air defence specialist for pro-Russian separatists, prompted concern from the Netherlands that he may avoid questioning. Some 13,000 people have been killed in Ukraine's conflict with Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine, which broke out shortly after Moscow annexed Crimea in 2014.

Preparations for Russia-Ukraine prisoner exchange underway: Report

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday declined a sprawling sofa kept specially for him at a photo session here and instead chose to sit on a chair along with others.

In a video posted by Railways Minister Piyush Goyal, Modi is being welcomed by officials at the photo session. The Prime Minister was seen opting for the chair over the sofa.

Following this, the officials replaced the comfortable sofa with a simple chair and he took his place for the picture.

"PM Narendra Modi's simplicity was seen today as he got the special arrangement for him removed and opted to sit on a chair along with others in Russia," Goyal tweeted along with the video.

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PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NarendraModi</a> जी की सरलता का उदाहरण आज पुनः देखने को मिला, उन्होंने रूस में अपने लिए की गई विशेष व्यवस्था को हटवा कर अन्य लोगों के साथ सामान्य कुर्सी पर बैठने की इच्छा जाहिर की। <a href="https://t.co/6Rn7eHid6N">pic.twitter.com/6Rn7eHid6N</a>
— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/PiyushGoyal/status/1169617884835803137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The video was widely shared on social media and netizens hailed Modi's gesture.

"What a lovely gesture. There are no words. See the simplicity," a Twitter user said.

"We have a humble and sober Prime Minister who is down to earth," another Twitterer said.

"Modiji's simplicity makes him the most respected n powerful leader in the world fraternity. The conviction, clarity with which he talks n conveys his message. He knows what's best 4 the nation. He's soft 4 good people but very hard 4 those who try to harm the nation. He's truly our PM," a user tweeted.

The Prime Minister was on a two-day visit to Vladivostok to attend the fifth Eastern Economic Forum and participate in the 20th India-Russia annual bilateral summit. 
He arrived back in New Delhi on early Friday morning.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday declined a sprawling sofa kept specially for him at a photo session here and instead chose to sit on a chair along with others.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday declined a sprawling sofa kept specially for him at a photo session here and instead chose to sit on a chair along with others. In a video posted by Railways Minister Piyush Goyal, Modi is being welcomed by officials at the photo session. The Prime Minister was seen opting for the chair over the sofa. Following this, the officials replaced the comfortable sofa with a simple chair and he took his place for the picture. "PM Narendra Modi's simplicity was seen today as he got the special arrangement for him removed and opted to sit on a chair along with others in Russia," Goyal tweeted along with the video. PM @NarendraModi जी की सरलता का उदाहरण आज पुनः देखने को मिला, उन्होंने रूस में अपने लिए की गई विशेष व्यवस्था को हटवा कर अन्य लोगों के साथ सामान्य कुर्सी पर बैठने की इच्छा जाहिर की। pic.twitter.com/6Rn7eHid6N — Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) September 5, 2019 × The video was widely shared on social media and netizens hailed Modi's gesture. "What a lovely gesture. There are no words. See the simplicity," a Twitter user said. "We have a humble and sober Prime Minister who is down to earth," another Twitterer said. "Modiji's simplicity makes him the most respected n powerful leader in the world fraternity. The conviction, clarity with which he talks n conveys his message. He knows what's best 4 the nation. He's soft 4 good people but very hard 4 those who try to harm the nation. He's truly our PM," a user tweeted. The Prime Minister was on a two-day visit to Vladivostok to attend the fifth Eastern Economic Forum and participate in the 20th India-Russia annual bilateral summit. He arrived back in New Delhi on early Friday morning.

Vladivostok: PM Modi refuses sofa, opts for chair during photo session

The head of Russia's central election committee was attacked at night by a masked assailant who climbed into her house and hit her with a taser, Russian police said Friday.

The head of Russia's central election committee was attacked at night by a masked assailant who climbed into her house and hit her with a taser, Russian police said Friday. The attack on 65-year-old Ella Pamfilova, at around 1:30 am (Thursday 2330 GMT) came ahead of contentious regional elections on Sunday, which have prompted large protests in Moscow. Police described the attack in a village outside Moscow as "armed assault," saying the offender "entered the house's conservatory via a window and hit the owner with an electric shocker several times, after which he fled". Pamfilova on Friday took part in a press conference and television footage did not show any visible injuries. She told journalists that she is ok. "I'll survive," she was quoted as saying by Interfax. Police have launched a probe into the attack. State media immediately speculated that the attack could be foul play related to elections for Moscow city parliament, criticised by the opposition after authorities barred most independent candidates from standing. "What was it, a robbery or carrying out of an order to disrupt the election?" asked state-controlled Rossiya 24 channel. Meanwhile, top opposition leader Alexei Navalny claimed that the attack was "fake". Electoral officials including Pamfilova have backed the decision to bar opposition candidates, saying the signatures of supporters they gathered to run were invalid. This led to the biggest political crisis in years, with large protests gathering in the capital since July to demand that the opposition be allowed to run. Following mass detentions, several people have been sentenced to long prison terms for attacking police during the rallies. "I hope the culprits are found quickly," wrote one of the rejected opposition candidates, Lyubov Sobol. "Pamfilova should certainly be put on trial for election falsifications. But I'm against extrajudicial punishment."

Armed assault on Russian election chief: Police

As <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-to-day-2-of-packed-russia-visit-pm-modi-holds-talks-with-japanese-malaysian-counterparts-247669">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> continues with his Russia trip with the focus on strengthening bilateral partnership, WION's Kartikeya Sharma spoke with Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak.

In an exclusive conversation, Novak described the Asia Pacific region as the global driver of the economy and&nbsp;hailed Modi-Putin talks as "very positive".

WION: What sort of energy trends are being witnessed in the Asia Pacific and other parts of the world?

Novak: The Asia Pacific region is the global driver of the economy. It is the driver for the demand of energy sources like carbons and other resources. It is also a driving force behind the investment of new technologies. Russia is ready in partnership with all other countries to invest in large scale projects. 
&nbsp; 
WION: What trends do you see between Russia and India on energy security?

Novak: India and Russia are strategic longstanding partners. Right, now we are in at a new stage of the relationship between the two countries because the leaders of the two countries have set forth new ambitious goals. Both Prime Minister Modi and President Putin are committed to promoting close relationship in the energy field which is the backbone of our interaction. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Is, energy the new bulwark between India Russia relationship?

Novak: Energy is the backbone of trade, economic and investment relations between the two countries including the participation and implementation of Sakhalin 1 project. In the last couple of years, a large number of big projects have been implemented including investments of the Indian companies into the production of oil in Russia. I'm referring to one core field Tassurik field besides Rosneft which invested 12 billion dollars in the acquisition of Essar company in India. New large-scale projects have been implemented as well. India is involved in the production and marketing of gas. 
&nbsp; 
WION: India is looking forward to cooperation IN nuclear field and gas. Do you think gas production has also become one of the driving forces between THE two countries?

Novak: India is already a big consumer of Russian gas. There is joint participation with Gasprom. Last year, it supplied 1 million tons of LNG to India. This year Novatek has signed a memorandum of cooperation for the marketing of LNG with two Indian companies. We are always happy to see Indian companies participate in the development of LNG in Russia in the context of the construction of energy plants since it is the strategic goal of the Russian federation. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Can India-Russia relationship be taken to the next level now?

Novak: I'm in close contact with my colleague Dharmendra Pradhan in India. On August 29 he was in Moscow and we had an opportunity to compare the implementation of key and large-scale projects in Russia so that we can achieve goals put forward by the leaders of both countries. On the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum, three documents were signed between the ministries of both the countries. The first document to be signed was a programme of cooperation in the area of oil and gas. The second one was on the promotion of gas motor fuel in India and the third was the cooperation of two countries in the power sector. These are mainstream directions in which we are going to move forward. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Do you feel that chemistry between Prime Minister Modi and President Putin has redefined Russia-India relationship?

Novak: Indeed, the relations between the two countries have reached high-level thanks to the personal touch established by Prime Minister Modi and President Putin. In this economic forum, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is our main guest. On Wednesday, both the leaders had a productive meeting. It was very positive. It will give new impetus to the promotion of bilateral ties between both the countries.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi continues with his Russia trip with the focus on strengthening bilateral partnership, WION's Kartikeya Sharma spoke with Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi continues with his Russia trip with the focus on strengthening bilateral partnership, WION's Kartikeya Sharma spoke with Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak. In an exclusive conversation, Novak described the Asia Pacific region as the global driver of the economy and hailed Modi-Putin talks as "very positive". WION: What sort of energy trends are being witnessed in the Asia Pacific and other parts of the world? Novak: The Asia Pacific region is the global driver of the economy. It is the driver for the demand of energy sources like carbons and other resources. It is also a driving force behind the investment of new technologies. Russia is ready in partnership with all other countries to invest in large scale projects. WION: What trends do you see between Russia and India on energy security? Novak: India and Russia are strategic longstanding partners. Right, now we are in at a new stage of the relationship between the two countries because the leaders of the two countries have set forth new ambitious goals. Both Prime Minister Modi and President Putin are committed to promoting close relationship in the energy field which is the backbone of our interaction. WION: Is, energy the new bulwark between India Russia relationship? Novak: Energy is the backbone of trade, economic and investment relations between the two countries including the participation and implementation of Sakhalin 1 project. In the last couple of years, a large number of big projects have been implemented including investments of the Indian companies into the production of oil in Russia. I'm referring to one core field Tassurik field besides Rosneft which invested 12 billion dollars in the acquisition of Essar company in India. New large-scale projects have been implemented as well. India is involved in the production and marketing of gas. WION: India is looking forward to cooperation IN nuclear field and gas. Do you think gas production has also become one of the driving forces between THE two countries? Novak: India is already a big consumer of Russian gas. There is joint participation with Gasprom. Last year, it supplied 1 million tons of LNG to India. This year Novatek has signed a memorandum of cooperation for the marketing of LNG with two Indian companies. We are always happy to see Indian companies participate in the development of LNG in Russia in the context of the construction of energy plants since it is the strategic goal of the Russian federation. WION: Can India-Russia relationship be taken to the next level now? Novak: I'm in close contact with my colleague Dharmendra Pradhan in India. On August 29 he was in Moscow and we had an opportunity to compare the implementation of key and large-scale projects in Russia so that we can achieve goals put forward by the leaders of both countries. On the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum, three documents were signed between the ministries of both the countries. The first document to be signed was a programme of cooperation in the area of oil and gas. The second one was on the promotion of gas motor fuel in India and the third was the cooperation of two countries in the power sector. These are mainstream directions in which we are going to move forward. WION: Do you feel that chemistry between Prime Minister Modi and President Putin has redefined Russia-India relationship? Novak: Indeed, the relations between the two countries have reached high-level thanks to the personal touch established by Prime Minister Modi and President Putin. In this economic forum, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is our main guest. On Wednesday, both the leaders had a productive meeting. It was very positive. It will give new impetus to the promotion of bilateral ties between both the countries.

'Energy cooperation is backbone of Indo-Russian relationship,' Russian Energy Minister tells WION 

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-russia-against-outside-influence-in-internal-matters-of-any-nation-modi-247605">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>, on the sidelines of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-russia-against-outside-influence-in-internal-matters-of-any-nation-modi-247605">India-Russia Summit</a> and Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), held bilaterals with world leaders including Japanese and Malaysian counterparts and the president of Mongolia.&nbsp;

In a press briefing, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Thursday touched upon the details of the three engagements.&nbsp;

Japanese PM Shinzo Abe and PM Modi discussed Africa and strengthening ties in trade, defence and economy between the two countries.&nbsp;

According to MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, "A global partnership reinforced by robust bilateral ties PM @narendramodi met with PM @AbeShinzo on the margins of 5th EEF in #Vladivostok. Discussed deepening multi-faceted ties in economic, defense &amp; security, start-up &amp; 5G areas and exchanged views on regional situation," he tweeted.

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Foreign Secy on PM Modi-Japan's PM meeting: It's (Indo-Pacific) an issue on which Japan-India share similar views. PM Abe spoke of free&amp;open Indo-Pacific &amp; imp.of bilateral coop,on economic side&amp;in terms of people-to-people relations to build secure&amp;prosperous Indo-Pacific region <a href="https://t.co/WWuq5gtlz3">pic.twitter.com/WWuq5gtlz3</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1169451501086863361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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This is the third meeting between Modi and Abe in a period of three months. In June, the two leaders held talks at the G-20 Summit in Osaka while they again met at the G7 Summit in Biarritz in August.

"Continuous engagement for concrete bilateral ties. Prime Ministers @AbeShinzo and @narendramodi meet in Vladivostok. This meeting comes after leaders interacted at the G-20 Summit in Osaka and @G7 in Biarritz. A wide range of subjects are being discussed in today`s meeting," a tweet from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) read.

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Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on PM Modi's meeting with PM of Malaysia: Prime Minister Modi raised the issue of Zakir Naik's extradition. Both the parties have decided that our officials will stay in contact regarding the matter and it is an important issue for us. <a href="https://t.co/Av84Rds4p3">pic.twitter.com/Av84Rds4p3</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1169450609747136512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Regional trade cooperation was taken up with Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad. Malaysia conveyed its position against any form terror and stated that officials from both the countries are in touch regarding the matter of Zakir Naik's extradition.&nbsp;

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Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale: Both leaders have agreed that the first 2+2 Ministerial meeting i.e. the Foreign and Defence Ministers of the two countries will have a meeting preferably before this Annual Summit. <a href="https://t.co/SWUtCzrbnX">pic.twitter.com/SWUtCzrbnX</a>
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With the Mongolian President, PM Modi talked about boosting people-to-people connect and the cultural, spiritual connection between the two nations. The leaders&nbsp;also discussed ways to tackle air pollution. India will be taking up the project of building a major oil refinery in Mongolia to meet the country's needs.&nbsp;

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Foreign Secy Vijay Gokhale: A lot of discussion was on bilateral relationship with particular emphasis on the forthcoming visit of Japanese Prime Minister to India for the Annual Summit that would take place sometime in December. Dates will be negotiated &amp; announced in due course <a href="https://t.co/qZdBgH44V6">https://t.co/qZdBgH44V6</a> <a href="https://t.co/OKZuDQ4zL0">pic.twitter.com/OKZuDQ4zL0</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1169448430818619393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The prime minister is slated to have a packed schedule on the second day of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-president-putin-hold-bilateral-talks-in-vladivostok-exchange-several-mous-247560">Russia visit</a> today. To begin with, he will attend the plenary session of EEF, visit India Pavillion and will take part in a series of bilaterals with &nbsp;Russia. PM Modi is on a two-day visit to Vladivostok for participating in the 20th India-Russia annual bilateral summit and fifth edition of the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF).

Modi, along with Putin, will address the summit as the chief guest later today. This is the Prime Minister's maiden visit to the Russian Far East region. He will head for India later in the evening.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the sidelines of the India-Russia Summit and Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), held bilaterals with world leaders including Japanese and Malaysian counterparts and the president of Mongolia.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the sidelines of the India-Russia Summit and Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), held bilaterals with world leaders including Japanese and Malaysian counterparts and the president of Mongolia. In a press briefing, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Thursday touched upon the details of the three engagements. Japanese PM Shinzo Abe and PM Modi discussed Africa and strengthening ties in trade, defence and economy between the two countries. According to MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, "A global partnership reinforced by robust bilateral ties PM @narendramodi met with PM @AbeShinzo on the margins of 5th EEF in #Vladivostok. Discussed deepening multi-faceted ties in economic, defense & security, start-up & 5G areas and exchanged views on regional situation," he tweeted. Foreign Secy on PM Modi-Japan's PM meeting: It's (Indo-Pacific) an issue on which Japan-India share similar views. PM Abe spoke of free&open Indo-Pacific & imp.of bilateral coop,on economic side&in terms of people-to-people relations to build secure&prosperous Indo-Pacific region pic.twitter.com/WWuq5gtlz3 — ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2019 × This is the third meeting between Modi and Abe in a period of three months. In June, the two leaders held talks at the G-20 Summit in Osaka while they again met at the G7 Summit in Biarritz in August. "Continuous engagement for concrete bilateral ties. Prime Ministers @AbeShinzo and @narendramodi meet in Vladivostok. This meeting comes after leaders interacted at the G-20 Summit in Osaka and @G7 in Biarritz. A wide range of subjects are being discussed in today`s meeting," a tweet from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) read. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on PM Modi's meeting with PM of Malaysia: Prime Minister Modi raised the issue of Zakir Naik's extradition. Both the parties have decided that our officials will stay in contact regarding the matter and it is an important issue for us. pic.twitter.com/Av84Rds4p3 — ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2019 × Regional trade cooperation was taken up with Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad. Malaysia conveyed its position against any form terror and stated that officials from both the countries are in touch regarding the matter of Zakir Naik's extradition. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale: Both leaders have agreed that the first 2+2 Ministerial meeting i.e. the Foreign and Defence Ministers of the two countries will have a meeting preferably before this Annual Summit. pic.twitter.com/SWUtCzrbnX — ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2019 × With the Mongolian President, PM Modi talked about boosting people-to-people connect and the cultural, spiritual connection between the two nations. The leaders also discussed ways to tackle air pollution. India will be taking up the project of building a major oil refinery in Mongolia to meet the country's needs. Foreign Secy Vijay Gokhale: A lot of discussion was on bilateral relationship with particular emphasis on the forthcoming visit of Japanese Prime Minister to India for the Annual Summit that would take place sometime in December. Dates will be negotiated & announced in due course https://t.co/qZdBgH44V6 pic.twitter.com/OKZuDQ4zL0 — ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2019 × The prime minister is slated to have a packed schedule on the second day of Russia visit today. To begin with, he will attend the plenary session of EEF, visit India Pavillion and will take part in a series of bilaterals with Russia. PM Modi is on a two-day visit to Vladivostok for participating in the 20th India-Russia annual bilateral summit and fifth edition of the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF). Modi, along with Putin, will address the summit as the chief guest later today. This is the Prime Minister's maiden visit to the Russian Far East region. He will head for India later in the evening. (With inputs from ANI)

Ahead to day-2 of packed Russia visit, PM Modi holds talks with Japanese and Malaysian counterparts

Russia has offered submarines to India for navy's Project 75(I) on the basis of an intergovernmental agreement. It was suggested during the delegation-level meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-extends-1-billion-line-of-credit-for-development-of-russias-far-east-pm-modi-247730">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>.

Under the project, India plans to indigenously construct six submarines for the Indian Navy at a cost of over Rs 40,000 crores.

In June, New Delhi had issued an Expression of Interest(s) for the shortlisting of potential Indian Strategic Partners (SPs) for the construction of conventional submarines for P-75(I) project of the Indian Navy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-in-vladivostok-india-extends-1-billion-credit-line-to-russias-far-east-247757">Moscow</a> has proposed a joint design, prototype construction with full intellectual property rights which will be shared equally. It has offered to jointly develop the AIP (air-independent propulsion) for the submarine but based on the progress that DRDO has already made.

Russia, however, did not offer the fifth-generation fighter Su-57 that was showcased at MAKS airshow. A Russian government source said, "We are not offering it to anyone".

India has ordered $14.5 billion worth of weapons from Russia, an announcement was made by Moscow after the 20th India-Russia Summit on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Russia's chief of federal service for military-technical cooperation, Dmitry Shugayev, was quoted by Russian news agency TASS as saying, "Last year and today saw the emergence of a tremendous portfolio of contracts in contrast to all previous years, $14.5 billion. This is an impressive figure, it’s a real breakthrough".

14 government MoUs were exchanged on Wednesday out of which 4 were in the energy sector, 5 in the economic sector, 2 in the infrastructure sector and one intergovernmental agreement to produce spare parts for Russian origin military equipment. 
&nbsp;

Russia has offered submarines to India for navy's Project 75(I) on the basis of an intergovernmental agreement. It was suggested during the delegation-level meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Russia has offered submarines to India for navy's Project 75(I) on the basis of an intergovernmental agreement. It was suggested during the delegation-level meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Under the project, India plans to indigenously construct six submarines for the Indian Navy at a cost of over Rs 40,000 crores. In June, New Delhi had issued an Expression of Interest(s) for the shortlisting of potential Indian Strategic Partners (SPs) for the construction of conventional submarines for P-75(I) project of the Indian Navy. Moscow has proposed a joint design, prototype construction with full intellectual property rights which will be shared equally. It has offered to jointly develop the AIP (air-independent propulsion) for the submarine but based on the progress that DRDO has already made. Russia, however, did not offer the fifth-generation fighter Su-57 that was showcased at MAKS airshow. A Russian government source said, "We are not offering it to anyone". India has ordered $14.5 billion worth of weapons from Russia, an announcement was made by Moscow after the 20th India-Russia Summit on Wednesday. Russia's chief of federal service for military-technical cooperation, Dmitry Shugayev, was quoted by Russian news agency TASS as saying, "Last year and today saw the emergence of a tremendous portfolio of contracts in contrast to all previous years, $14.5 billion. This is an impressive figure, it’s a real breakthrough". 14 government MoUs were exchanged on Wednesday out of which 4 were in the energy sector, 5 in the economic sector, 2 in the infrastructure sector and one intergovernmental agreement to produce spare parts for Russian origin military equipment.

Russia offers joint development of submarines to India 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday once again reiterated Indian position that the consensus created in Vladivostok with Russian President Vladimir Putin was that sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected and that there should be no interference in the internal affairs of the country.&nbsp;

On the lighter note, PM Modi said that "President Putin invited me before the elections, reposing the same confidence which people of India did during the elections".&nbsp;

“He had faith in me as people of India,” said Narendra Modi. Asserting beginning of a new relationship, the prime minister announced that he is extending <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-extends-1-billion-line-of-credit-for-development-of-russias-far-east-pm-modi-247730">$1 billion credit line to the Far East region of Russia</a>. 
&nbsp; 
He also said that it is also happening for the first time and also announced that he has invited all 11 governors of the Russian Far East to India. Prime minister Modi said that initiatives taken by India in the Far East ARE an expression of economic diplomacy. 
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Prime Minister looked deeply satisfied with his engagement with President Putin and thanked him for spending time with him. PM Modi emphasised that Putin on the first day of his visit was with him till 1 am. 
&nbsp; 
The prime minister also said that there is immense love for the people of India in Russia and dimensions have been added to the Indo-Russian relationship.&nbsp;

PM also said that we have set ambitious targets and India and Russia will deepen cooperation in Space and deep-sea exploration.&nbsp;

He also emphasised on Vladivostok-Chennai sea connection and said that it will connect big markets. PM also said that he is very happy as more than 150 private businessmen from India participated in the Forum and their memorandum of understandings (MoUs) have surpassed that of the public enterprises. Since there has been a lot of focus on Russian forests, Prime Minister Modi reemphasised that "we take from nature only what is required".

 
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday once again reiterated Indian position that the consensus created in Vladivostok with Russian President Vladimir Putin was that sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected and that there should be no interference in the internal affairs of the country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday once again reiterated Indian position that the consensus created in Vladivostok with Russian President Vladimir Putin was that sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected and that there should be no interference in the internal affairs of the country. On the lighter note, PM Modi said that "President Putin invited me before the elections, reposing the same confidence which people of India did during the elections". “He had faith in me as people of India,” said Narendra Modi. Asserting beginning of a new relationship, the prime minister announced that he is extending $1 billion credit line to the Far East region of Russia. He also said that it is also happening for the first time and also announced that he has invited all 11 governors of the Russian Far East to India. Prime minister Modi said that initiatives taken by India in the Far East ARE an expression of economic diplomacy. Prime Minister looked deeply satisfied with his engagement with President Putin and thanked him for spending time with him. PM Modi emphasised that Putin on the first day of his visit was with him till 1 am. The prime minister also said that there is immense love for the people of India in Russia and dimensions have been added to the Indo-Russian relationship. PM also said that we have set ambitious targets and India and Russia will deepen cooperation in Space and deep-sea exploration. He also emphasised on Vladivostok-Chennai sea connection and said that it will connect big markets. PM also said that he is very happy as more than 150 private businessmen from India participated in the Forum and their memorandum of understandings (MoUs) have surpassed that of the public enterprises. Since there has been a lot of focus on Russian forests, Prime Minister Modi reemphasised that "we take from nature only what is required".

PM Modi in Vladivostok: India extends $1 billion credit line to Russia's Far East

PM Modi's day-1 in Russia: Visit to shipbuilding complex, Judo championship and more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-an-aim-to-attract-business-investment-opportunities-pm-modi-to-embark-on-russia-visit-tomorrow-247344">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday met Russian President Vladimir Putin. The two leaders left for a visit to&nbsp;Zvezda ship-building complex.

PM Modi arrived in Russia's Far-Eastern city of Vladivostok on Wednesday to participate in the 20th India-Russia annual summit and the fifth meeting of the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF).

PM Modi received a guard of honour at the Vladivostok International Airport in the presence of Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov.

During the three-day visit, the Prime Minister is scheduled to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in which the two leaders will discuss bilateral, regional, and international issues of mutual interest.

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Vladivostok: Prime Minister Narendra Modi departs for Zvezda ship-building complex along with Russian President Vladimir Putin. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://t.co/02Dqbjzo0r">pic.twitter.com/02Dqbjzo0r</a>
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Following this, the two sides will sign agreements in the fields of defence, trade, investments, industrial cooperation, energy and connectivity corridors.

In his departure statement ahead of his visit to Russia, the prime minister said that strong bilateral partnership is complemented by a desire to promote a multi-polar world and the two countries should cooperate extensively in the strategic fields of defence, civil nuclear energy and peaceful uses of space.&nbsp;

The prime minister was welcomed by the Indian diaspora at Russia's Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU) in Vladivostok on Wednesday.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday met Russian President Vladimir Putin. The two leaders left for a visit to Zvezda ship-building complex. PM Modi arrived in Russia's Far-Eastern city of Vladivostok on Wednesday to participate in the 20th India-Russia annual summit and the fifth meeting of the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday met Russian President Vladimir Putin. The two leaders left for a visit to Zvezda ship-building complex. PM Modi arrived in Russia's Far-Eastern city of Vladivostok on Wednesday to participate in the 20th India-Russia annual summit and the fifth meeting of the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF). PM Modi received a guard of honour at the Vladivostok International Airport in the presence of Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov. During the three-day visit, the Prime Minister is scheduled to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in which the two leaders will discuss bilateral, regional, and international issues of mutual interest. Vladivostok: Prime Minister Narendra Modi departs for Zvezda ship-building complex along with Russian President Vladimir Putin. #Russia pic.twitter.com/02Dqbjzo0r — ANI (@ANI) September 4, 2019 × Following this, the two sides will sign agreements in the fields of defence, trade, investments, industrial cooperation, energy and connectivity corridors. In his departure statement ahead of his visit to Russia, the prime minister said that strong bilateral partnership is complemented by a desire to promote a multi-polar world and the two countries should cooperate extensively in the strategic fields of defence, civil nuclear energy and peaceful uses of space. The prime minister was welcomed by the Indian diaspora at Russia's Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU) in Vladivostok on Wednesday.

PM Modi meets Russian President Vladimir Putin, departs for Zvezda ship-building complex

A 19-year-old American tourist arrested in Russia while carrying marijuana for personal medical use could face up to three years in prison in the country known for its harsh drug policy.

Audrey Elise Lorber had 19 grams (over half an ounce) of cannabis and a medical use permit with her when she was searched in Pulkovo airport in Saint Petersburg, the city's courts press service said this week.

She was arrested and charged with possession.&nbsp;

Lorber "kept the narcotic substance for her personal use" but the US use permit "is not valid on Russian territory," according to the press service.

She remains in custody pending a hearing at a district court in Russia's second-largest city.

Lorber is a film student from New York who was in Russia with her mother on a tourist visit, according to local media, referring to her social media accounts.

It is not the first case of nationals from countries where cannabis is legal being arrested in Russia for possession.

Naama Issachar, a 25-year-old Israeli-American, has been in custody for over four months on charges of smuggling nine grams of cannabis into Russia.&nbsp;

According to Israeli media, the drugs were found in her checked luggage while she was transferring flights from India to Israel at Sheremetyevo airport.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, a court in Khimki outside Moscow ruled to extend Issachar's pre-trial detention to September 25. A Change.org petition to free her has gathered over 5,000 signatures.

Russia's drug policy is notoriously punitive and the global trend toward legalising marijuana has not had any effect on the country's laws.

A 19-year-old American tourist arrested in Russia while carrying marijuana for personal medical use could face up to three years in prison in the country known for its harsh drug policy.

A 19-year-old American tourist arrested in Russia while carrying marijuana for personal medical use could face up to three years in prison in the country known for its harsh drug policy. Audrey Elise Lorber had 19 grams (over half an ounce) of cannabis and a medical use permit with her when she was searched in Pulkovo airport in Saint Petersburg, the city's courts press service said this week. She was arrested and charged with possession. Lorber "kept the narcotic substance for her personal use" but the US use permit "is not valid on Russian territory," according to the press service. She remains in custody pending a hearing at a district court in Russia's second-largest city. Lorber is a film student from New York who was in Russia with her mother on a tourist visit, according to local media, referring to her social media accounts. It is not the first case of nationals from countries where cannabis is legal being arrested in Russia for possession. Naama Issachar, a 25-year-old Israeli-American, has been in custody for over four months on charges of smuggling nine grams of cannabis into Russia. According to Israeli media, the drugs were found in her checked luggage while she was transferring flights from India to Israel at Sheremetyevo airport. On Tuesday, a court in Khimki outside Moscow ruled to extend Issachar's pre-trial detention to September 25. A Change.org petition to free her has gathered over 5,000 signatures. Russia's drug policy is notoriously punitive and the global trend toward legalising marijuana has not had any effect on the country's laws.

US teen arrested in Russia over medical marijuana

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-arrives-in-russia-on-three-day-visit-247476">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Tuesday said that India and Russia need to take advantage of the low production cost in India to produce military equipment under joint venture framework at cheaper rates for the third-world nations.

"Today, provided that technologies are transferred, the production of military equipment can be cheap in India. And we will be able to supply these weapons to third countries at very low prices. India and Russia need to take advantage of this opportunity," Modi said in an interview to TASS.

The Prime Minister said that Indo-Russian partnership has extended beyond the framework of military and technical cooperation, as manifested in the help extended by Moscow to train Indian astronauts for the Gaganyaan project.

"Information technologies are developing well in India and we are making success in the space sphere. Now, as we are cultivating the Gaganyaan project ("Sky Vehicle" - India's first manned spacecraft), Russia will help us train our astronauts. This cooperation is not limited to just military and technical and related fields. It goes beyond this framework," the Indian premier said.

Modi expressed hope that his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum will give a new impetus to bilateral ties between the two countries.

"I am confident that this visit will give a new vector, new energy and a new impetus to the relations between our countries," he said.

India and Russia are expected to sign numerous agreements in the fields of defence, trade, investments, industrial cooperation, energy and connectivity corridors at the 20th Annual Summit between the two countries.

In his departure statement ahead of his visit to Russia, Modi had said that strong bilateral partnership is complemented by a desire to promote a multi-polar world and the two countries cooperate extensively in the strategic fields of defence, civil nuclear energy and peaceful uses of space.

The Prime Minister arrived in Russia`s Far-Eastern city of Vladivostok earlier today.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that India and Russia need to take advantage of the low production cost in India to produce military equipment under joint venture framework at cheaper rates for the third-world nations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that India and Russia need to take advantage of the low production cost in India to produce military equipment under joint venture framework at cheaper rates for the third-world nations. "Today, provided that technologies are transferred, the production of military equipment can be cheap in India. And we will be able to supply these weapons to third countries at very low prices. India and Russia need to take advantage of this opportunity," Modi said in an interview to TASS. The Prime Minister said that Indo-Russian partnership has extended beyond the framework of military and technical cooperation, as manifested in the help extended by Moscow to train Indian astronauts for the Gaganyaan project. "Information technologies are developing well in India and we are making success in the space sphere. Now, as we are cultivating the Gaganyaan project ("Sky Vehicle" - India's first manned spacecraft), Russia will help us train our astronauts. This cooperation is not limited to just military and technical and related fields. It goes beyond this framework," the Indian premier said. Modi expressed hope that his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum will give a new impetus to bilateral ties between the two countries. "I am confident that this visit will give a new vector, new energy and a new impetus to the relations between our countries," he said. India and Russia are expected to sign numerous agreements in the fields of defence, trade, investments, industrial cooperation, energy and connectivity corridors at the 20th Annual Summit between the two countries. In his departure statement ahead of his visit to Russia, Modi had said that strong bilateral partnership is complemented by a desire to promote a multi-polar world and the two countries cooperate extensively in the strategic fields of defence, civil nuclear energy and peaceful uses of space. The Prime Minister arrived in Russia`s Far-Eastern city of Vladivostok earlier today.

PM Modi bats for India-Russia collaboration to produce low cost military equipment

Energy and connectivity dominated the agenda during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/focus-on-economic-relations-india-looking-to-invest-in-russian-oil-fields-foreign-secretary-vijay-gokhale-247568">20th India Russia annual summit</a> that happened in Russia's far eastern city of Vladivostok. Key announcements were made on energy and a proposal has been made to have a full-fledged maritime route that serves as a link between Chennai and Vladivostok.

Both sides agreed on a five-year road map in the energy sector with focus on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/a-friend-and-supporter-russia-has-always-given-importance-to-strengthening-ties-with-india-pm-modi-247541">Indian investment in Russian oil fields</a> and transportation of energy to India and Russian investment in the downstream energy sector in India. New Delhi is looking to invest in Russian oil fields in eastern clusters and sourcing LNG.

Both leaders had a "warm and very very productive meeting with PM Modi calling Russia as a reliable partner and a special friend and President Putin talked about taking India Russia ties to new heights," foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said.

During the joint press conference after the bilateral meet, PM Modi said: "The India-Russia friendship is not restricted to their respective capital cities. We have put people at the core of this relationship".

Watch Video:

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Russian President Putin said, "I would underscore India is Russia’s key strategic partner. Mr. Modi and I have kept a personal touch."

Remembering former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee, PM Modi said,"In 2000 when the first summit happened President Putin was still the president of Russia while I was the Gujarat chief minister who accompanied then PM of India Atalji."

The recent legislative changes by New Delhi on removing the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir also came up during Putin-Modi meet.

Addressing the situation, PM Modi said that India and Russia are against outside influence in internal matters of any nation.&nbsp;

Responding to a WION question, foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said,"Yes indeed this issue did come up. The PM explained to President Putin at length about the rationale behind the government's decision. The PM also explained the manner in which false and misleading information was given on this matter and PM Modi thanked Russia and President Putin for his very clear and strong support to India on this issue. They overall had useful exchange and it is our understanding Russia stands very firmly behind India on this matter."

Remember Russia was the first permanent five members of the United Nations security council to call the August, 5 decision by the Indian government on J&amp;K as an internal issue. 
&nbsp; 
During the talks, pharma, trade in local currency, shipbuilding and agriculture especially in export of rice, dairy products from India was discussed. PM Modi flagged the need for ease in visa processing for Indian businessmen in Russia.

The two governments exchanged fourteen MoUs out of which four were in the energy sector, five in the economic sector and two in the infrastructure sector and one inter-governmental agreement to produce spare parts for Russian origin military equipment. More than 30 commercial private India-Russia MoUs were also agreed upon including WION-Sputnik agreement.&nbsp;

In a special gesture on Wednesday morning, President Putin took PM Modi by boat to “Zvezda” shipbuilding complex where the two leaders spent two hours together.

On Thursday, PM Modi will address the Eastern Economic Forum where he has been invited as one of the chief guests and he will have bilateral talks with his Japanese, Malaysian and Mongolian counterparts. Before he leaves, he along with President Putin will visit a judo championship.&nbsp;

Energy and connectivity dominated the agenda during the 20th India Russia annual summit that happened in Russia's far eastern city of Vladivostok. Key announcements were made on energy and a proposal has been made to have a full-fledged maritime route that serves as a link between Chennai and Vladivostok.

Energy and connectivity dominated the agenda during the 20th India Russia annual summit that happened in Russia's far eastern city of Vladivostok. Key announcements were made on energy and a proposal has been made to have a full-fledged maritime route that serves as a link between Chennai and Vladivostok. Both sides agreed on a five-year road map in the energy sector with focus on Indian investment in Russian oil fields and transportation of energy to India and Russian investment in the downstream energy sector in India. New Delhi is looking to invest in Russian oil fields in eastern clusters and sourcing LNG. Both leaders had a "warm and very very productive meeting with PM Modi calling Russia as a reliable partner and a special friend and President Putin talked about taking India Russia ties to new heights," foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said. During the joint press conference after the bilateral meet, PM Modi said: "The India-Russia friendship is not restricted to their respective capital cities. We have put people at the core of this relationship". Watch Video: Russian President Putin said, "I would underscore India is Russia’s key strategic partner. Mr. Modi and I have kept a personal touch." Remembering former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee, PM Modi said,"In 2000 when the first summit happened President Putin was still the president of Russia while I was the Gujarat chief minister who accompanied then PM of India Atalji." The recent legislative changes by New Delhi on removing the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir also came up during Putin-Modi meet. Addressing the situation, PM Modi said that India and Russia are against outside influence in internal matters of any nation. Responding to a WION question, foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said,"Yes indeed this issue did come up. The PM explained to President Putin at length about the rationale behind the government's decision. The PM also explained the manner in which false and misleading information was given on this matter and PM Modi thanked Russia and President Putin for his very clear and strong support to India on this issue. They overall had useful exchange and it is our understanding Russia stands very firmly behind India on this matter." Remember Russia was the first permanent five members of the United Nations security council to call the August, 5 decision by the Indian government on J&K as an internal issue. During the talks, pharma, trade in local currency, shipbuilding and agriculture especially in export of rice, dairy products from India was discussed. PM Modi flagged the need for ease in visa processing for Indian businessmen in Russia. The two governments exchanged fourteen MoUs out of which four were in the energy sector, five in the economic sector and two in the infrastructure sector and one inter-governmental agreement to produce spare parts for Russian origin military equipment. More than 30 commercial private India-Russia MoUs were also agreed upon including WION-Sputnik agreement. In a special gesture on Wednesday morning, President Putin took PM Modi by boat to “Zvezda” shipbuilding complex where the two leaders spent two hours together. On Thursday, PM Modi will address the Eastern Economic Forum where he has been invited as one of the chief guests and he will have bilateral talks with his Japanese, Malaysian and Mongolian counterparts. Before he leaves, he along with President Putin will visit a judo championship.

India, Russia against outside influence in internal matters of any nation: Modi

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-zvezda-shipbuilding-complex-pm-modi-gets-glimpse-of-russias-exemplary-shipbuilding-prowess-247512">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Wednesday held bilateral talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin shortly after arriving in Vladivostok, Russia.

The prime minister thanked Russian President Vladimir Putin and his government for conferring country's highest civilian award - guard of honour - and said that it was an honour for him to visit Russia and meet the president for the third time this year.&nbsp;

PM Modi spoke about his day with the Russian president and their visit to the Zvezda shipbuilding complex.

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PM: Russia is an integral friend &amp; trustworthy partner of India. You've personally focussed on expanding our special &amp; privileged strategic partnership. As 2 integral friends, wé've met regularly. I've spoken to you over telephone on several issues, I've never felt any hesitation <a href="https://t.co/FkLlQJMw7s">pic.twitter.com/FkLlQJMw7s</a>
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"This exhibits the new dimension to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-bats-for-india-russia-collaboration-to-produce-low-cost-military-equipment-247479">strategic cooperation between our countries</a>. I am excited to be part of the 20th edition of the India-Russia Summit," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

The prime minister added that he is humbled by the welcome of the Russian people.&nbsp;

"This meet exhibits the friendly ties between our countries, it is a matter of pride for 1.3 billion Indians," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

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PM Modi in Russia: You've announced that I'll be awarded with Russia's highest civilian award. I express my gratitude to you &amp; people of Russia. This demonstrates the friendly relations between the people of our 2 countries. It's a matter of honour for the 1.3 billion Indians. <a href="https://t.co/lnIPv1NQjV">pic.twitter.com/lnIPv1NQjV</a>
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Describing Russia as a friend and a nation that has supported India, the prime minister stated that Russia has personally given importance to bolstering its strategic partnership with India.

"Some very important talks are due to take place at the Summit which should further strengthen our ties and take all aspects of our ties - like defence, nuclear energy, space - &nbsp;to new heights," he said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday paid a visit to the 'Zvezda' Shipbuilding Complex with an aim to learn about Russia's exemplary capabilities in the shipbuilding sector as well as explore possibilities of cooperation in this area.

PM Modi arrived in Vladivostok, Russia earlier today, on a two-day visit, to hold talks with Putin on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum to give a new impetus to bilateral ties between India and Russia.

India and Russia are expected to sign numerous agreements in the fields of defence, trade, investments, industrial cooperation, energy and connectivity corridors at the 20th Annual Summit between the two countries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday held bilateral talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin shortly after arriving in Vladivostok, Russia. The prime minister thanked Russian President Vladimir Putin and his government for conferring country's highest civilian award - guard of honour - and said that it was an honour for him to visit Russia and meet the president for the third time this year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday held bilateral talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin shortly after arriving in Vladivostok, Russia. The prime minister thanked Russian President Vladimir Putin and his government for conferring country's highest civilian award - guard of honour - and said that it was an honour for him to visit Russia and meet the president for the third time this year. PM Modi spoke about his day with the Russian president and their visit to the Zvezda shipbuilding complex. PM: Russia is an integral friend & trustworthy partner of India. You've personally focussed on expanding our special & privileged strategic partnership. As 2 integral friends, wé've met regularly. I've spoken to you over telephone on several issues, I've never felt any hesitation pic.twitter.com/FkLlQJMw7s — ANI (@ANI) September 4, 2019 × "This exhibits the new dimension to strategic cooperation between our countries. I am excited to be part of the 20th edition of the India-Russia Summit," PM Modi said. The prime minister added that he is humbled by the welcome of the Russian people. "This meet exhibits the friendly ties between our countries, it is a matter of pride for 1.3 billion Indians," PM Modi said. PM Modi in Russia: You've announced that I'll be awarded with Russia's highest civilian award. I express my gratitude to you & people of Russia. This demonstrates the friendly relations between the people of our 2 countries. It's a matter of honour for the 1.3 billion Indians. pic.twitter.com/lnIPv1NQjV — ANI (@ANI) September 4, 2019 × Describing Russia as a friend and a nation that has supported India, the prime minister stated that Russia has personally given importance to bolstering its strategic partnership with India. "Some very important talks are due to take place at the Summit which should further strengthen our ties and take all aspects of our ties - like defence, nuclear energy, space - to new heights," he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday paid a visit to the 'Zvezda' Shipbuilding Complex with an aim to learn about Russia's exemplary capabilities in the shipbuilding sector as well as explore possibilities of cooperation in this area. PM Modi arrived in Vladivostok, Russia earlier today, on a two-day visit, to hold talks with Putin on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum to give a new impetus to bilateral ties between India and Russia. India and Russia are expected to sign numerous agreements in the fields of defence, trade, investments, industrial cooperation, energy and connectivity corridors at the 20th Annual Summit between the two countries.

A friend and supporter, Russia has given importance to strengthening ties with India: PM Modi 

The Vikram Lander successfully separated from Chandrayaan-2&nbsp;on Monday, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said.

The Chandrayaan-2 orbiter continues to orbit the Moon in its existing orbit.

The Vikram Lander is currently located in an orbit of 119 km x 127 km, ISRO further said.

The next maneuver is scheduled on September 3.

Yesterday, Chandrayaan-2 successfully performed it's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fifth-and-final-lunar-bound-orbit-maneuver-for-chandrayaan-2-performed-successfully-isro-247032https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fifth-and-final-lunar-bound-orbit-maneuver-for-chandrayaan-2-performed-successfully-isro-247032">final and fifth lunar bound orbit maneuver</a> using the onboard propulsion system.

Chandrayaan-2 will explore a region of the moon where no mission has ever set foot.

Watch:&nbsp;Chandrayaan-2 captures first image of Moon

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The spacecraft consists of an orbiter, a lander, and a rover together referred to as "composite body".

This mission will make India the fourth country after the US, Russia, and China to carry out a soft landing on the moon.

The mission took off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on July 22.&nbsp;

The Vikram Lander successfully separated from Chandrayaan-2 on Monday, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said. The Chandrayaan-2 orbiter continues to orbit the Moon in its existing orbit.

The Vikram Lander successfully separated from Chandrayaan-2 on Monday, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said. The Chandrayaan-2 orbiter continues to orbit the Moon in its existing orbit. The Vikram Lander is currently located in an orbit of 119 km x 127 km, ISRO further said. The next maneuver is scheduled on September 3. Yesterday, Chandrayaan-2 successfully performed it's final and fifth lunar bound orbit maneuver using the onboard propulsion system. Chandrayaan-2 will explore a region of the moon where no mission has ever set foot. Watch: Chandrayaan-2 captures first image of Moon The spacecraft consists of an orbiter, a lander, and a rover together referred to as "composite body". This mission will make India the fourth country after the US, Russia, and China to carry out a soft landing on the moon. The mission took off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on July 22.

Vikram Lander successfully separated from Chandrayaan-2: ISRO

The Russian military said the United States carried out airstrikes in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/air-strikes-stop-in-syrias-idlib-after-truce-announced-246820/amp">Syria's Idlib </a>de-escalation zone in breach of previous agreements, inflicting numerous casualties and endangering a ceasefire, Russian news agencies reported on Sunday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-announces-government-ceasefire-in-syrias-idlib-from-saturday-246696">Russia announces government ceasefire in Syria's Idlib from Saturday</a>

TASS news agency, citing the Russian defence ministry, said the United States had forewarned neither Russia nor Turkey about the strikes. It added that Russian and Syrian warplanes had not carried out raids in the region recently.

On Saturday the US Central Command, part of the Department of Defense, had said that US forces struck an al Qaeda facility north of Idlib in Syria in an attack aimed at the organisation's leadership.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said airstrikes pounded bases belonging to jihadist fighters in Syria's northwest. The UK-based monitor said the strikes, near the town of Maarat Misrin in Idlib province, killed more than 40 militants, including some commanders.

Interfax news agency cited Russian military as saying that the United States carried out airstrikes in the region between Maarat Misrin and Kafer Haya in Idlib on Saturday.

US airstrikes have hit a number of Nusra commanders in northwest Syria in recent years.

Russia's defence ministry on Friday said that Syrian government forces would carry out a unilateral ceasefire in the de-escalation zone on Saturday morning.

The Russian military said the United States carried out airstrikes in Syria's Idlib de-escalation zone in breach of previous agreements, inflicting numerous casualties and endangering a ceasefire, Russian news agencies reported on Sunday.

The Russian military said the United States carried out airstrikes in Syria's Idlib de-escalation zone in breach of previous agreements, inflicting numerous casualties and endangering a ceasefire, Russian news agencies reported on Sunday. Also read: Russia announces government ceasefire in Syria's Idlib from Saturday TASS news agency, citing the Russian defence ministry, said the United States had forewarned neither Russia nor Turkey about the strikes. It added that Russian and Syrian warplanes had not carried out raids in the region recently. On Saturday the US Central Command, part of the Department of Defense, had said that US forces struck an al Qaeda facility north of Idlib in Syria in an attack aimed at the organisation's leadership. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said airstrikes pounded bases belonging to jihadist fighters in Syria's northwest. The UK-based monitor said the strikes, near the town of Maarat Misrin in Idlib province, killed more than 40 militants, including some commanders. Interfax news agency cited Russian military as saying that the United States carried out airstrikes in the region between Maarat Misrin and Kafer Haya in Idlib on Saturday. US airstrikes have hit a number of Nusra commanders in northwest Syria in recent years. Russia's defence ministry on Friday said that Syrian government forces would carry out a unilateral ceasefire in the de-escalation zone on Saturday morning.

Russia says US strikes Syria's Idlib, puts ceasefire at risk: Reports

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-walks-out-of-europe-rights-body-as-russia-returns-230295">Ukraine</a> on Friday denied reports that a prisoner swap with Russia was underway, as announced earlier by some Russian media and a Ukrainian official.

"The process for the mutual release of prisoners is continuing. Information about its completion is not true," the Ukrainian presidency said in a post on Facebook.

Speculation has spread in recent days that a prisoner swap was imminent and reports surfaced overnight that it had begun.

Some reports were based on a report on Facebook by Ukraine's new prosecutor-general Ruslan Ryaboshapka suggesting the swap had started.&nbsp;

Russian media outlets retracted a report of the swap and apologised.

"This is not the first time we have seen information chaos caused by... unconfirmed information," the presidency said, warning against "misinformation" and urging people not to "play with society's emotions".

"Nobody is flying anywhere," Valentyn Rybin, a lawyer for several of the Russian and Ukrainian nationals held by Ukraine and mooted for the swap. Some of his clients are still in prison, he said.

"Let's be patient and not have any false starts," he said in a video posted on his Facebook page.

Russian news agencies reported on Thursday that Oleg Sentsov, a Ukrainian filmmaker serving a 20-year jail term in Russia, had been moved to Moscow ahead of a possible prisoner swap.

That came a day after Ukraine released Russian state media journalist Kyrylo Vyshynsky pending his treason trial.

However, Sentsov's lawyer Dmitry Dinze told AFP he had "no information" on the matter.&nbsp;

Vyshynsky remained in Kiev on Friday, his lawyer said.

On Friday there was still no official statement regarding Sentsov's whereabouts. Russian prison monitors who attempted to see him in a Moscow jail said they failed.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky whose election earlier this year has raised hopes of a reduction in tensions with Russia proposed an exchange of Sentsov and Vyshynsky a few weeks ago.

Some 13,000 people have been killed in Ukraine's conflict with Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine, which broke out shortly after Moscow annexed Crimea in 2014.

A prisoner exchange could be a key first step in easing tensions between Kiev and Moscow.

Ukraine on Friday denied reports that a prisoner swap with Russia was underway, as announced earlier by some Russian media and a Ukrainian official. "The process for the mutual release of prisoners is continuing.

Ukraine on Friday denied reports that a prisoner swap with Russia was underway, as announced earlier by some Russian media and a Ukrainian official. "The process for the mutual release of prisoners is continuing. Information about its completion is not true," the Ukrainian presidency said in a post on Facebook. Speculation has spread in recent days that a prisoner swap was imminent and reports surfaced overnight that it had begun. Some reports were based on a report on Facebook by Ukraine's new prosecutor-general Ruslan Ryaboshapka suggesting the swap had started. Russian media outlets retracted a report of the swap and apologised. "This is not the first time we have seen information chaos caused by... unconfirmed information," the presidency said, warning against "misinformation" and urging people not to "play with society's emotions". "Nobody is flying anywhere," Valentyn Rybin, a lawyer for several of the Russian and Ukrainian nationals held by Ukraine and mooted for the swap. Some of his clients are still in prison, he said. "Let's be patient and not have any false starts," he said in a video posted on his Facebook page. Russian news agencies reported on Thursday that Oleg Sentsov, a Ukrainian filmmaker serving a 20-year jail term in Russia, had been moved to Moscow ahead of a possible prisoner swap. That came a day after Ukraine released Russian state media journalist Kyrylo Vyshynsky pending his treason trial. However, Sentsov's lawyer Dmitry Dinze told AFP he had "no information" on the matter. Vyshynsky remained in Kiev on Friday, his lawyer said. On Friday there was still no official statement regarding Sentsov's whereabouts. Russian prison monitors who attempted to see him in a Moscow jail said they failed. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky whose election earlier this year has raised hopes of a reduction in tensions with Russia proposed an exchange of Sentsov and Vyshynsky a few weeks ago. Some 13,000 people have been killed in Ukraine's conflict with Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine, which broke out shortly after Moscow annexed Crimea in 2014. A prisoner exchange could be a key first step in easing tensions between Kiev and Moscow.

Ukraine denies reports of prisoner swap with Russia

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-un-envoy-meets-unga-president-discusses-kashmir-issue-245943">The United Nations</a> said Friday it will help evacuate civilians from an "abysmal" Syrian desert camp near the border with Jordan, after a mission last week determined who wanted to leave.

"We are ready to facilitate" evacuations from the Rukban camp, said Panos Moumtzis, the UN's Syria humanitarian chief.&nbsp;

"We want to make sure it happens voluntarily," he told AFP during an interview in Beirut, describing the situation in the settlement as "abysmal".&nbsp;

According to the UN official, around 12,700 people remain in the isolated Rukban camp near a base used by the US-led coalition fighting the Islamic State group.

The Syrian government and key backer Russia said in February they had opened corridors out of the camp, calling on residents to leave.

More than half of the original population has left in the past months, the United Nations says.

The UN and the Syrian Arab Red Crescent sent a mission to the camp last week to determine how many people remained inside and who wanted to leave, the UN official said.&nbsp;

"A little bit more than a third of them want to leave," Moumtzis said.&nbsp;

"The vast majority want to go into government-held areas and some others want to go to the north," held by the opposition, he added.&nbsp;

But the UN is not able to provide protection guarantees after civilians quit the camp, he said.

Some 47 per cent of surveyed camp residents said they wanted to stay, citing reasons including "security concerns" and "fear of detention".

Rights groups have warned that civilians returning to government-held territory have faced detention and conscription.

Those fleeing to the rebel-held north might face violence in the Idlib region, where Russian and regime bombardment has killed more than 950 people since April.&nbsp;

Although Rukban has not received aid since February, the latest UN mission did not deliver any relief items beyond "a minimal number of health supplies", Moumtzis said.

But last week's visit is only the first part of a "two-step" plan the second of which will involve aid delivery, according to the UN official.

"The next mission I hope very quickly will go back and deliver the desperately needed assistance," he said, without providing a specific date.

Conditions inside Rukban are dire, with many surviving on just one simple meal a day, often the bread and olive oil or yoghurt, according to one resident.

The United Nations said Friday it will help evacuate civilians from an "abysmal" Syrian desert camp near the border with Jordan, after a mission last week determined who wanted to leave.

The United Nations said Friday it will help evacuate civilians from an "abysmal" Syrian desert camp near the border with Jordan, after a mission last week determined who wanted to leave. "We are ready to facilitate" evacuations from the Rukban camp, said Panos Moumtzis, the UN's Syria humanitarian chief. "We want to make sure it happens voluntarily," he told AFP during an interview in Beirut, describing the situation in the settlement as "abysmal". According to the UN official, around 12,700 people remain in the isolated Rukban camp near a base used by the US-led coalition fighting the Islamic State group. The Syrian government and key backer Russia said in February they had opened corridors out of the camp, calling on residents to leave. More than half of the original population has left in the past months, the United Nations says. The UN and the Syrian Arab Red Crescent sent a mission to the camp last week to determine how many people remained inside and who wanted to leave, the UN official said. "A little bit more than a third of them want to leave," Moumtzis said. "The vast majority want to go into government-held areas and some others want to go to the north," held by the opposition, he added. But the UN is not able to provide protection guarantees after civilians quit the camp, he said. Some 47 per cent of surveyed camp residents said they wanted to stay, citing reasons including "security concerns" and "fear of detention". Rights groups have warned that civilians returning to government-held territory have faced detention and conscription. Those fleeing to the rebel-held north might face violence in the Idlib region, where Russian and regime bombardment has killed more than 950 people since April. Although Rukban has not received aid since February, the latest UN mission did not deliver any relief items beyond "a minimal number of health supplies", Moumtzis said. But last week's visit is only the first part of a "two-step" plan the second of which will involve aid delivery, according to the UN official. "The next mission I hope very quickly will go back and deliver the desperately needed assistance," he said, without providing a specific date. Conditions inside Rukban are dire, with many surviving on just one simple meal a day, often the bread and olive oil or yoghurt, according to one resident.

United Nations to 'facilitate' evacuations from Syria desert camp

In a bid to expand military outreach Trump launches US Space Warfare Command

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-drop-troop-level-but-permanent-presence-to-remain-in-afghanistan-trump-246453">Donald Trump</a> established on Thursday the United States Space Command, a program that was first established during the height of the Cold War.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-chinas-plans-to-disrupt-gps-through-asat-in-2020-beyond-206321">In pics: How China plans to disrupt GPS through ASAT in 2020 &amp; beyond</a> 
&nbsp;

Trump announced in the Rose Garden, flanked by US Vice President Mike Pence, Defense Secretary Mike Esper and the newly appointed head of Space Command, US Air Force General John Raymond.

Trump said Space Command would "defend America's vital interests in space, the next war-fighting domain."

Watch: Trump inches closer to a 'space force'

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&nbsp;

"Our adversaries are weaponizing Earth's orbits with new technology targeting American satellites that are critical to both battlefield operations and our way of life at home. Our freedom to operate in space is also essential to detecting and destroying any missile launched against the United States," said Trump.

Space Command was originally established in 1985 by the Air Force to coordinate defense efforts amid the Cold War. In 2002, Space Command was merged into the unified Strategic Command to focus on the US-led invasion of Afghanistan.

Trump added that Space Command would be followed by the establishment of the Space Force, " the sixth branch of the United States Armed Forces," he said.&nbsp;

Creating a new military branch requires congressional approval and the House and Senate are expected to take up the issue when they return from their August recess.

US President Donald Trump established on Thursday the United States Space Command, a program that was first established during the height of the Cold War. In pics: How China plans to disrupt GPS through ASAT in 2020 & beyond Trump announced in the Rose Garden, flanked by US Vice President Mike Pence, Defense Secretary Mike Esper and the newly appointed head of Space Command, US Air Force General John Raymond.

US President Donald Trump established on Thursday the United States Space Command, a program that was first established during the height of the Cold War. In pics: How China plans to disrupt GPS through ASAT in 2020 & beyond Trump announced in the Rose Garden, flanked by US Vice President Mike Pence, Defense Secretary Mike Esper and the newly appointed head of Space Command, US Air Force General John Raymond. Trump said Space Command would "defend America's vital interests in space, the next war-fighting domain." Watch: Trump inches closer to a 'space force' × "Our adversaries are weaponizing Earth's orbits with new technology targeting American satellites that are critical to both battlefield operations and our way of life at home. Our freedom to operate in space is also essential to detecting and destroying any missile launched against the United States," said Trump. Space Command was originally established in 1985 by the Air Force to coordinate defense efforts amid the Cold War. In 2002, Space Command was merged into the unified Strategic Command to focus on the US-led invasion of Afghanistan. Trump added that Space Command would be followed by the establishment of the Space Force, " the sixth branch of the United States Armed Forces," he said. Creating a new military branch requires congressional approval and the House and Senate are expected to take up the issue when they return from their August recess.

Donald Trump establishes US Space Command, says space to be 'next war-fighting domain'

Continuing the series of back to back visits from India to Russia in the last fortnight, India's energy minister Dharmendra Pradhan will be in Moscow starting Thursday for a two-day visit.&nbsp;

Earlier this week India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar was in Moscow and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval visited too.&nbsp;

Pradhan will meet Russian energy minister Alexander Novak and will review energy sector cooperation. He will be accompanied by heads of state-owned oil companies like Indian Oil Corporation.

"Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas &amp; Steel together with Russian Energy Minister will participate in an Energy Dialogue with Russian and Indian Oil &amp; Gas and Steel Companies.", a release from the petroleum ministry said.

Both sides are working towards the realisation of an "energy bridge" and Indian companies have invested more than $5.5 billion in Russian oil and gas sector. ONGC Videsh ltd along with Oil India and IOCL have invested in Vankor Field in eastern Siberia.

Other than that, energy minister will also talk about cooperation in oil and gas, steel and coal sectors. This will be his first overseas’ visit since his assumption of office.&nbsp;

Dharmendra Pradhan will also hold a meeting with Yury Trutnev, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation or President's envoy to Far Eastern Federal District.

Energy will be key topics of discussion when Prime Minister Narendra Modi will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Vladivostok for the Eastern Economic Forum and annual India-Russia summit.

Continuing the series of back to back visits from India to Russia in the last fortnight, India's energy minister Dharmendra Pradhan will be in Moscow starting Thursday for a two-day visit.

Continuing the series of back to back visits from India to Russia in the last fortnight, India's energy minister Dharmendra Pradhan will be in Moscow starting Thursday for a two-day visit. Earlier this week India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar was in Moscow and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval visited too. Pradhan will meet Russian energy minister Alexander Novak and will review energy sector cooperation. He will be accompanied by heads of state-owned oil companies like Indian Oil Corporation. "Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas & Steel together with Russian Energy Minister will participate in an Energy Dialogue with Russian and Indian Oil & Gas and Steel Companies.", a release from the petroleum ministry said. Both sides are working towards the realisation of an "energy bridge" and Indian companies have invested more than $5.5 billion in Russian oil and gas sector. ONGC Videsh ltd along with Oil India and IOCL have invested in Vankor Field in eastern Siberia. Other than that, energy minister will also talk about cooperation in oil and gas, steel and coal sectors. This will be his first overseas’ visit since his assumption of office. Dharmendra Pradhan will also hold a meeting with Yury Trutnev, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation or President's envoy to Far Eastern Federal District. Energy will be key topics of discussion when Prime Minister Narendra Modi will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Vladivostok for the Eastern Economic Forum and annual India-Russia summit.

India's energy minister Dharmendra Pradhan on two-day visit to Russia

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