95 per cent of marine life along seafloor has mysteriously perished at Avacha Bay at Russia's pacific coast. The cause of the mass death of marine animals is yet to be ascertained. Images of the ecological disaster went viral on social media over the last weekend. The images show hundreds of dead fish, sea urchins, octopuses that were washed ashore on Khalaktyrsky beach in Russia's Kamchatka region.

The Moscow Times reported that the authorities attributed this to man-made pollution, under-sea volcanic eruption or other natural phenomenon.

The disaster is expected to have an effect on the local ecology. Scientists investigating the developments have warned the authorities that a domino effect was possible as large fish and organisms, who depend on the dead fauna for food are likely to suffer. This, in turn, may have a further effect on marine foodchains thereby exacerbating the impact. The scientists told The Moscow Times that they suspected that the contaminated area was bigger than the one they examined.

A special commission is being set up to examine whether pesticide leak from military facilities was responsible for this.

As per reports, local surfers and fishermen caught first hint as they complained of eye pain, sore throat and vomitting after going into the waters.

Meanwhile, Greenpeace has been reported as saying that its tests revealed four times the normal levels of petroleum in the waters of Khalaktyrsky beach

95 per cent of marine life along seafloor has mysteriously perished at Avacha Bay at Russia's pacific coast. The cause of the mass death of marine animals is yet to be ascertained.

95 per cent of marine life along seafloor has mysteriously perished at Avacha Bay at Russia's pacific coast. The cause of the mass death of marine animals is yet to be ascertained. Images of the ecological disaster went viral on social media over the last weekend. The images show hundreds of dead fish, sea urchins, octopuses that were washed ashore on Khalaktyrsky beach in Russia's Kamchatka region. The Moscow Times reported that the authorities attributed this to man-made pollution, under-sea volcanic eruption or other natural phenomenon. The disaster is expected to have an effect on the local ecology. Scientists investigating the developments have warned the authorities that a domino effect was possible as large fish and organisms, who depend on the dead fauna for food are likely to suffer. This, in turn, may have a further effect on marine foodchains thereby exacerbating the impact. The scientists told The Moscow Times that they suspected that the contaminated area was bigger than the one they examined. A special commission is being set up to examine whether pesticide leak from military facilities was responsible for this. As per reports, local surfers and fishermen caught first hint as they complained of eye pain, sore throat and vomitting after going into the waters. Meanwhile, Greenpeace has been reported as saying that its tests revealed four times the normal levels of petroleum in the waters of Khalaktyrsky beach

Russia disaster: 95 per cent of sea-floor marine life killed in Avacha Bay, cause unknown

An environmental disaster of a yet-to-be-determined cause is looming over Russia's eastern Kamchatka region as locals of the area report encountering dozens of dead sea animals

Russia: Dozens of dead sea animals found

Russia has said that it is working with India for "common approaches" for development in pacific and Indian ocean, even as both celebrate 20 years of establishment of "strategic partnership". Both sides signed the “Declaration on the India-Russia Strategic Partnership” in October 2000 during the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin that year.

Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev speaking on the occasion said, "strategic partners means to proceed from the unity of destinies and to form common approaches and views on common on issues directly connected to the existence of our countries and peoples".

Explaining,"These include jointly finding solutions to problem....working out common approaches to the vision of regional development: in Pacific and Indian Oceans, or in Persian Gulf."

The comments assume significance even as India and the United States are working on Indo-Pacific concept, which New Delhi has also raised with Moscow.&nbsp;

The Russian envoy mentioned how both countries are jointly dealing with "Covid-19 pandemic, countering new challenges and threats-- terrorism, drug trafficking, transnational organized crime, attempts to rewrite the history of the Great Victory".

Amid the COVID crisis, India had sent hydroxychloroquine used in the treatment of the disease to Russia. Russia is sending its COVID vaccine Sputnik V to India, but subject to regulatory approval in the country.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-journalist-dies-after-setting-herself-on-fire-332243">Russian journalist dies after setting herself on fire</a>

This year also marks 10 years since India and Russia elevated the relationship to the level of “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.&nbsp;

The envoy said, "Special and privileged partnership" can be described by "unprecedented, unparalleled level of confidence" and "it means a situation when partner’s views, opinions, positions are by default embedded in Moscow’s or New Delhi’s approaches to key problems of the day or to key problems of developing our bilateral relations."

Adding," future of Eurasia and other regions of the world belongs to this partnership"

Last month saw both Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar visited Moscow for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meets. In November, Russia as the host is expected to host a virtual meeting of SCO and BRICS head of state.

Russia has said that it is working with India for "common approaches" for development in pacific and Indian ocean, even as both celebrate 20 years of establishment of "strategic partnership".

Russia has said that it is working with India for "common approaches" for development in pacific and Indian ocean, even as both celebrate 20 years of establishment of "strategic partnership". Both sides signed the “Declaration on the India-Russia Strategic Partnership” in October 2000 during the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin that year. Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev speaking on the occasion said, "strategic partners means to proceed from the unity of destinies and to form common approaches and views on common on issues directly connected to the existence of our countries and peoples". Explaining,"These include jointly finding solutions to problem....working out common approaches to the vision of regional development: in Pacific and Indian Oceans, or in Persian Gulf." The comments assume significance even as India and the United States are working on Indo-Pacific concept, which New Delhi has also raised with Moscow. The Russian envoy mentioned how both countries are jointly dealing with "Covid-19 pandemic, countering new challenges and threats-- terrorism, drug trafficking, transnational organized crime, attempts to rewrite the history of the Great Victory". Amid the COVID crisis, India had sent hydroxychloroquine used in the treatment of the disease to Russia. Russia is sending its COVID vaccine Sputnik V to India, but subject to regulatory approval in the country. Also Read | Russian journalist dies after setting herself on fire This year also marks 10 years since India and Russia elevated the relationship to the level of “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. The envoy said, "Special and privileged partnership" can be described by "unprecedented, unparalleled level of confidence" and "it means a situation when partner’s views, opinions, positions are by default embedded in Moscow’s or New Delhi’s approaches to key problems of the day or to key problems of developing our bilateral relations." Adding," future of Eurasia and other regions of the world belongs to this partnership" Last month saw both Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar visited Moscow for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meets. In November, Russia as the host is expected to host a virtual meeting of SCO and BRICS head of state.

Working on common approaches with India in Pacific, Indian Ocean: Russia

Russia has registered 7,523 new cases of the coronavirus disease over the preceding 24 hours, up from 7,212 a day earlier, which brings the cumulative total to 1,143,571, the federal response center said on Saturday.

The largest increase was identified in Moscow, the Russian capital, where 1,792 new positive tests were registered. Additionally, 232 new cases were identified in St. Petersburg and 204 more were found in the Moscow region.

The response center also reported 169 coronavirus-related fatalities over the last 24 hours, which brings the total death toll to 20,225, and 6,004 people were confirmed to have recovered from the disease over the last day, bringing the total number of discharges to 940,150.

Saturday`s rise to the case total is the largest observed in Russia since June, and the head of the national public health watchdog Anna Popova said that the increase in the number of new positive tests was due to residents not abiding by the country`s epidemiological recommendations.

"We are seeing growth, we already sense it. It is more pronounced and begun in the last days of August ... First of all, it is connected with the fact that people are not complying with requirements.

Therefore, the main task today is not to return to fear or scaring people, but to call on people to be alert to prevent new infections," Popova said during an appearance on Russia`s Rossiya 1 broadcaster.

Popova added that public health officials had expected to see a rise in new cases with the onset of the influenza season at the start of fall.Sergei Sobyanin, the mayor of Moscow, on Friday issued new recommendations amid the rising number of new cases in the Russian capital.&nbsp;

Senior citizens and those with chronic health conditions have been asked to remain at home and large companies have been requested to transfer employees to remote work wherever possible.

Russia has registered 7,523 new cases of the coronavirus disease over the preceding 24 hours, up from 7,212 a day earlier, which brings the cumulative total to 1,143,571, the federal response center said on Saturday.

Russia has registered 7,523 new cases of the coronavirus disease over the preceding 24 hours, up from 7,212 a day earlier, which brings the cumulative total to 1,143,571, the federal response center said on Saturday. The largest increase was identified in Moscow, the Russian capital, where 1,792 new positive tests were registered. Additionally, 232 new cases were identified in St. Petersburg and 204 more were found in the Moscow region. The response center also reported 169 coronavirus-related fatalities over the last 24 hours, which brings the total death toll to 20,225, and 6,004 people were confirmed to have recovered from the disease over the last day, bringing the total number of discharges to 940,150. Saturday`s rise to the case total is the largest observed in Russia since June, and the head of the national public health watchdog Anna Popova said that the increase in the number of new positive tests was due to residents not abiding by the country`s epidemiological recommendations. "We are seeing growth, we already sense it. It is more pronounced and begun in the last days of August ... First of all, it is connected with the fact that people are not complying with requirements. Therefore, the main task today is not to return to fear or scaring people, but to call on people to be alert to prevent new infections," Popova said during an appearance on Russia`s Rossiya 1 broadcaster. Popova added that public health officials had expected to see a rise in new cases with the onset of the influenza season at the start of fall.Sergei Sobyanin, the mayor of Moscow, on Friday issued new recommendations amid the rising number of new cases in the Russian capital. Senior citizens and those with chronic health conditions have been asked to remain at home and large companies have been requested to transfer employees to remote work wherever possible.

Russia COVID-19 cases total rises by 7,523 to 1,143,571

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday offered to provide its coronavirus vaccine free-of-cost&nbsp;to United Nations staff all over the world. He made the proposal during his pre-recorded address to United Nations General Assembly. Putin called Russian-developed coronavirus vaccine Sputnik-V 'safe, reliable and effective'

"Russia is ready to provide the UN with all the necessary qualified assistance, in particular, we are offering to provide our vaccine, free of charge, for the voluntary vaccination of the staff of the UN and its offices. We have received requests from our UN colleagues in this respect, and we will respond to those," said Putin.

Sputnik-V vaccine has been developed by Gamaleya Institute in Russia. The vaccine has cleared Phase-2 trials. It is yet to clear Phase-3.

Although there have been claims from the Russian side that Sputnik-V prompts sufficient antibody response against coronavirus infection, critics remain skeptical about the vaccine. Mass trials of Sputnik-V vaccine have not been carried out but high ranking officials and ministers in the Russian Government have been given doses.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-death-toll-in-united-states-passes-200000-trump-blames-china-at-unga-329553">COVID-19: Death toll in United States passes 200,000; Trump blames China at UNGA</a>

Putin's own daughter has also been administered the vaccine but which of his two daughters was given the vaccine was a mystery when the news broke.

In his UN speech, Putin said Russia was open to co-operation with respect to Sputnik-V vaccine.

"I would like to reiterate that we are completely open to partner relations and willing to cooperate. In this context, we are proposing to hold an online high-level conference shortly for countries interested in cooperation in the development of anti-coronavirus vaccines," he added

Putin outlined Russia`s active contribution to global and regional counter-COVID-19 efforts, saying the country provided assistance to most affected nations both bilaterally and within multilateral formats. He called on the need to "qualitatively strengthen" the capability of the World Health Organisation (WHO).

"...We first of all take into account the central coordinating role of the WHO, which is part of the UN system. We believe it essential to qualitatively strengthen WHO capability. This work has already begun, and Russia is genuinely motivated to engage in it," the Russian President remarked.

(With agency inputs)

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday offered to provide its coronavirus vaccine free-of-cost to United Nations staff all over the world. He made the proposal during his pre-recorded address to United Nations General Assembly.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday offered to provide its coronavirus vaccine free-of-cost to United Nations staff all over the world. He made the proposal during his pre-recorded address to United Nations General Assembly. Putin called Russian-developed coronavirus vaccine Sputnik-V 'safe, reliable and effective' "Russia is ready to provide the UN with all the necessary qualified assistance, in particular, we are offering to provide our vaccine, free of charge, for the voluntary vaccination of the staff of the UN and its offices. We have received requests from our UN colleagues in this respect, and we will respond to those," said Putin. Sputnik-V vaccine has been developed by Gamaleya Institute in Russia. The vaccine has cleared Phase-2 trials. It is yet to clear Phase-3. Although there have been claims from the Russian side that Sputnik-V prompts sufficient antibody response against coronavirus infection, critics remain skeptical about the vaccine. Mass trials of Sputnik-V vaccine have not been carried out but high ranking officials and ministers in the Russian Government have been given doses. Also Read | COVID-19: Death toll in United States passes 200,000; Trump blames China at UNGA Putin's own daughter has also been administered the vaccine but which of his two daughters was given the vaccine was a mystery when the news broke. In his UN speech, Putin said Russia was open to co-operation with respect to Sputnik-V vaccine. "I would like to reiterate that we are completely open to partner relations and willing to cooperate. In this context, we are proposing to hold an online high-level conference shortly for countries interested in cooperation in the development of anti-coronavirus vaccines," he added Putin outlined Russia`s active contribution to global and regional counter-COVID-19 efforts, saying the country provided assistance to most affected nations both bilaterally and within multilateral formats. He called on the need to "qualitatively strengthen" the capability of the World Health Organisation (WHO). "...We first of all take into account the central coordinating role of the WHO, which is part of the UN system. We believe it essential to qualitatively strengthen WHO capability. This work has already begun, and Russia is genuinely motivated to engage in it," the Russian President remarked. (With agency inputs)

Russia offers to give free coronavirus vaccine for UN staff across globe

Russia&nbsp;on Monday&nbsp;kicked off its large-scale week-long Caucasus 2020 (Kavkaz 2020) military exercises along with&nbsp;China, Belarus, Pakistan and several other countries.

The military exercises in&nbsp;Kavkaz this year&nbsp;are expected to focus on combating cruise missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles, the&nbsp;Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Footage?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Footage</a> The foreign military taking part in the on-coming <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kavkaz2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kavkaz2020</a> strategic command &amp; control exercise are about to finish their relocation to the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SouthernMD?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SouthernMD</a> of Russia. Upon arrival, everyone of them takes mandatory <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> tests <a href="https://t.co/SPca0aTwrC">https://t.co/SPca0aTwrC</a> <a href="https://t.co/pQjMhqjMpn">pic.twitter.com/pQjMhqjMpn</a>
— Минобороны России (@mod_russia) <a href="https://twitter.com/mod_russia/status/1306236639509962753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The drills, led by Chief of the General Staff Army General Valery Gerasimov, will take place at several firing ranges and airfields in southern&nbsp;Russia.

The navy part of the drills in both the Black Sea and Caspian Sea will be joined by the Iranian navy, the ministry said.

The defence ministry also said that the exercises will involve around 1,000 military personnel from Armenia, Belarus, China, Myanmar and Pakistan. The exercises will be observed by representatives of Azerbaijan, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Sri-Lanka.

Russia&nbsp;said the drills will involve around 80,000 personnel including&nbsp;Russian missile defence and navy units, as well as officers of the&nbsp;Russian Emergencies Ministry and the&nbsp;Russian Guard.

According to the ministry, the drills will also feature up to 250 tanks, 450 military personnel carriers and 200 artillery systems.

Russia on Monday kicked off its large-scale week-long Caucasus 2020 (Kavkaz 2020) military exercises along with China, Belarus, Pakistan and several other countries.

Russia on Monday kicked off its large-scale week-long Caucasus 2020 (Kavkaz 2020) military exercises along with China, Belarus, Pakistan and several other countries. The military exercises in Kavkaz this year are expected to focus on combating cruise missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles, the Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement. #Footage The foreign military taking part in the on-coming #Kavkaz2020 strategic command & control exercise are about to finish their relocation to the #SouthernMD of Russia. Upon arrival, everyone of them takes mandatory #COVID19 tests https://t.co/SPca0aTwrC pic.twitter.com/pQjMhqjMpn — Минобороны России (@mod_russia) September 16, 2020 × The drills, led by Chief of the General Staff Army General Valery Gerasimov, will take place at several firing ranges and airfields in southern Russia. The navy part of the drills in both the Black Sea and Caspian Sea will be joined by the Iranian navy, the ministry said. The defence ministry also said that the exercises will involve around 1,000 military personnel from Armenia, Belarus, China, Myanmar and Pakistan. The exercises will be observed by representatives of Azerbaijan, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Sri-Lanka. Russia said the drills will involve around 80,000 personnel including Russian missile defence and navy units, as well as officers of the Russian Emergencies Ministry and the Russian Guard. According to the ministry, the drills will also feature up to 250 tanks, 450 military personnel carriers and 200 artillery systems.

Kavkaz 2020: Russia hosts military drills in south with China, Belarus, Pakistan

Two European laboratories corroborated the findings that the Soviet-era military grade nerve agent was used on the Kremlin critic

'Foreign labs confirm Russian leader Alexei Navalny poisoned with Novichok', claims Germany

Russians vote on September 13 in regional elections that will be scrutinised for signs of discontent with the ruling United Russia party following the suspected poisoning of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny.

Regional election in Russia: Test of Kremlin party's grip on power | World News

Local poll viewed as dry run for 2021 Parliamentary election in Russia

An elegant complex of red-brick buildings, the "Proletarka" in the Russian city of Tver was designed as model housing for workers. But a century later, its impoverished residents are living in squalor.

Russia: Soviet housing complex survives in appalling condition

Russian President Vladimir Putin opened a newly constructed part of Tavrida road in the annexed&nbsp;Crimea&nbsp;on Thursday.

Putin took a ride on the new road together with the main technical expert of the constructor company. In one of his comments, Putin suggested that the road should be equipped with more turnoffs for those who come to the seaside.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-drives-car-in-annexed-crimea-during-rare-trip-outside-moscow-323667/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The construction of Tavrida road, linking main&nbsp;Crimean cities, was launched in 2017 and its total length is estimated slightly over 250 km.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
During his working visit to Crimea, Vladimir Putin took part in the launch of motor traffic on the finished sections of the Taurida motorway <a href="https://t.co/1M0NDQPHl3">https://t.co/1M0NDQPHl3</a> <a href="https://t.co/umnUjmuui9">pic.twitter.com/umnUjmuui9</a>
— President of Russia (@KremlinRussia_E) <a href="https://twitter.com/KremlinRussia_E/status/1299024760962252803?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Since the beginning of the novel coronavirus outbreak in March, Vladimir Putin worked in Kremlin or Novo-Ogaryovo, rarely left Moscow.

In July he revealed the World War II memorial near the city of Rzhev, about 200 km from the Russian capital, and visited the&nbsp;Crimean port of Kerch.

Moscow annexed&nbsp;Crimea&nbsp;from Ukraine in 2014, drawing sanctions and sending relations with the West to post-Cold War lows.

Russia has spent heavily to integrate&nbsp;Crimea&nbsp;into its territory, and it has been the focus of espionage and military tensions since its annexation.

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said on Thursday that Putin's visit to&nbsp;Crimea&nbsp;was an act of violation of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Russian President Vladimir Putin opened a newly constructed part of Tavrida road in the annexed Crimea on Thursday. Putin took a ride on the new road together with the main technical expert of the constructor company.

Russian President Vladimir Putin opened a newly constructed part of Tavrida road in the annexed Crimea on Thursday. Putin took a ride on the new road together with the main technical expert of the constructor company. In one of his comments, Putin suggested that the road should be equipped with more turnoffs for those who come to the seaside. The construction of Tavrida road, linking main Crimean cities, was launched in 2017 and its total length is estimated slightly over 250 km. During his working visit to Crimea, Vladimir Putin took part in the launch of motor traffic on the finished sections of the Taurida motorway https://t.co/1M0NDQPHl3 pic.twitter.com/umnUjmuui9 — President of Russia (@KremlinRussia_E) August 27, 2020 × Since the beginning of the novel coronavirus outbreak in March, Vladimir Putin worked in Kremlin or Novo-Ogaryovo, rarely left Moscow. In July he revealed the World War II memorial near the city of Rzhev, about 200 km from the Russian capital, and visited the Crimean port of Kerch. Moscow annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014, drawing sanctions and sending relations with the West to post-Cold War lows. Russia has spent heavily to integrate Crimea into its territory, and it has been the focus of espionage and military tensions since its annexation. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said on Thursday that Putin's visit to Crimea was an act of violation of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Putin drives car in annexed Crimea during rare trip outside Moscow

On Saturday, Russian politician, opposition leader & top Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny and his team arrived at Berlin's hospital for treatment after 'suspected poisoning'.

On Saturday, Navalny arrived at Berlin's hospital for treatment after 'suspected poisoning'

Alexei Navalny has reached Germany for medical treatment. Germany is demanding clarification over poisoning claims. Navalny is in a coma after a suspected poisoning.

Navalny 'Poisoned': Germany demands clarification over poisoning claims

Indian envoy to Russia D. Bala Venkatesh Varma has said that China wanted to get "unilateral advantage" on the ground and that is why engaged in clashes at the Line of actual LAC in Eastern Ladakh.&nbsp;

Speaking to a Russian TV channel, Envoy Venkatesh Varma said, "We have always wanted good relations with China. Unfortunately, this year, China has attempted to change the status quo on the ground in a manner that gives a unilateral advantage to China. We have said that we are open to dialogue. But, we are also firm in our resolve to protect our sovereignty and territorial integrity."

Ties between New Delhi and Beijing suffered its most serious blow in decades after the Galwan incident of June 15 in which India lost 20 of its soldiers and China also suffered casualty but never came with a figure.

Envoy explained that while India wants normal relations with China, normalization can happen only once there is "full disengagement and de-escalation on the border, and peace and tranquillity on the border areas have been restored". He also said the disengagement process has "not yet completed, but through dialogue, we hope to resolve these issues."

On the ban on Chinese apps, the envoy said India expects "these companies to follow the rules and regulations of India, especially with regard to digital security and privacy of individual information."

The journalist also asked when can Russians go back to Goa, to which the envoy said, "Main difficulty now is the lack of international flights...But we look forward to welcoming them with double warmth next year in the next tourist season".

Goa has been a popular destination for Russian tourist.&nbsp;

Indian envoy to Russia D. Bala Venkatesh Varma has said that China wanted to get "unilateral advantage" on the ground and that is why engaged in clashes at the Line of actual LAC in Eastern Ladakh.

Indian envoy to Russia D. Bala Venkatesh Varma has said that China wanted to get "unilateral advantage" on the ground and that is why engaged in clashes at the Line of actual LAC in Eastern Ladakh. Speaking to a Russian TV channel, Envoy Venkatesh Varma said, "We have always wanted good relations with China. Unfortunately, this year, China has attempted to change the status quo on the ground in a manner that gives a unilateral advantage to China. We have said that we are open to dialogue. But, we are also firm in our resolve to protect our sovereignty and territorial integrity." Ties between New Delhi and Beijing suffered its most serious blow in decades after the Galwan incident of June 15 in which India lost 20 of its soldiers and China also suffered casualty but never came with a figure. Envoy explained that while India wants normal relations with China, normalization can happen only once there is "full disengagement and de-escalation on the border, and peace and tranquillity on the border areas have been restored". He also said the disengagement process has "not yet completed, but through dialogue, we hope to resolve these issues." On the ban on Chinese apps, the envoy said India expects "these companies to follow the rules and regulations of India, especially with regard to digital security and privacy of individual information." The journalist also asked when can Russians go back to Goa, to which the envoy said, "Main difficulty now is the lack of international flights...But we look forward to welcoming them with double warmth next year in the next tourist season". Goa has been a popular destination for Russian tourist.

China wanted to get unilateral advantage on ground, says Indian envoy to Russia

Russian opposition politician Alexei Navalny said on July 20 that he would shut down his Anti-Corruption Foundation due to hefty court fines imposed over one of its investigations, but would try to re-launch it under a new name. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny shuts anti-corruption foundation

Navalny shuts anti-corruption foundation: Protests demanding Putin's resignation

Russia police on Friday raided one of the offices of main opposition leader Alexei Navalny as critics accuse Putin government of increasing efforts to stiffle dissent.&nbsp;

Alexander Golovach, a lawyer working for Navalny's Anti-Corruption Fund (FBK), shared a video on social media of cops arriving at their offices in southern Moscow.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-britain-canada-accuse-russia-of-hacking-covid-19-vaccine-research-313873">US, Britain, Canada accuse Russia of hacking Covid-19 vaccine research</a>

Navalny said he had been banned from leaving Moscow due to a new criminal case registered against him.&nbsp;

He added the ban was imposed on him to prevent his campaigning across the country ahead of the regional polls in September.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fact-check-has-russia-really-found-coronavirus-vaccine-313073">Fact-check: Has Russia really found coronavirus vaccine?</a>

The 44-year-old said he was being interrogated as part of a new investigation for suspected slander over comments he made on social media.&nbsp;

The Investigative Committee, which probes important cases, in June suspected Navalny of defaming a World War II veteran.&nbsp;

Navalny's offices have been constantly raided by Russian enforcement agencies and several criminal probes were made against him.&nbsp;

Recently, Kremlin critics slammed the Russian government of ramping up its efforts to bury critcism after President Vladimir Putin won a mandate to amend Constitution that will open the door for him to stay im power until 2036.

This week Moscow police detained about 150 people who participate in the city centre march against the constitutional amendments.

(With AFP inputs) 
&nbsp;

Russia police on Friday raided one of the offices of main opposition leader Alexei Navalny as critics accuse Putin government of increasing efforts to stiffle dissent.

Russia police on Friday raided one of the offices of main opposition leader Alexei Navalny as critics accuse Putin government of increasing efforts to stiffle dissent. Alexander Golovach, a lawyer working for Navalny's Anti-Corruption Fund (FBK), shared a video on social media of cops arriving at their offices in southern Moscow. Also read | US, Britain, Canada accuse Russia of hacking Covid-19 vaccine research Navalny said he had been banned from leaving Moscow due to a new criminal case registered against him. He added the ban was imposed on him to prevent his campaigning across the country ahead of the regional polls in September. Also read | Fact-check: Has Russia really found coronavirus vaccine? The 44-year-old said he was being interrogated as part of a new investigation for suspected slander over comments he made on social media. The Investigative Committee, which probes important cases, in June suspected Navalny of defaming a World War II veteran. Navalny's offices have been constantly raided by Russian enforcement agencies and several criminal probes were made against him. Recently, Kremlin critics slammed the Russian government of ramping up its efforts to bury critcism after President Vladimir Putin won a mandate to amend Constitution that will open the door for him to stay im power until 2036. This week Moscow police detained about 150 people who participate in the city centre march against the constitutional amendments. (With AFP inputs)

Russia: Police raid prominent opposition leader's office

Russian prosecutors on Wednesday said they were conducting an inspection of a facility supposed to&nbsp;treat acid runoff from an abandoned Urals mine after photographs emerged of streams running orange.&nbsp;

A bright-orange landscape near the disused copper-sulphide mine close to the village of Lyovikha in the Urals was seen in drone footage shared on social media.

According to local media, the Sverdlovsk regional government had asked for the mine to be sealed but Moscow refused on the grounds that there were still valuable resources there.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-arctic-turned-red-after-russia-caused-worst-fuel-spill-303713">How Arctic turned red after Russia caused worst fuel spill</a>

Environmentalist Andrei Volegov, who chairs a local NGO Ecopravo, said on Facebook that the polluted water was supposed to be neutralised in a technical "pond" but that the pond overflows during heavy rains.

Volegov had alerted prosecutors to the situation last year and received a reply that the company in charge of the pollutants was not properly funded and could not purchase enough lime to neutralise the acid, according to a letter he published.

A major spill of fuel oil in the Arctic last month raised the profile of industrial pollution in&nbsp;Russia, where companies are often punished with only small fines and hazardous waste can be left unaddressed for years due to bureaucracy.

&nbsp;

Russian prosecutors on Wednesday said they were conducting an inspection of a facility supposed to treat acid runoff from an abandoned Urals mine after photographs emerged of streams running orange.

Russian prosecutors on Wednesday said they were conducting an inspection of a facility supposed to treat acid runoff from an abandoned Urals mine after photographs emerged of streams running orange. A bright-orange landscape near the disused copper-sulphide mine close to the village of Lyovikha in the Urals was seen in drone footage shared on social media. According to local media, the Sverdlovsk regional government had asked for the mine to be sealed but Moscow refused on the grounds that there were still valuable resources there. Also see: How Arctic turned red after Russia caused worst fuel spill Environmentalist Andrei Volegov, who chairs a local NGO Ecopravo, said on Facebook that the polluted water was supposed to be neutralised in a technical "pond" but that the pond overflows during heavy rains. Volegov had alerted prosecutors to the situation last year and received a reply that the company in charge of the pollutants was not properly funded and could not purchase enough lime to neutralise the acid, according to a letter he published. A major spill of fuel oil in the Arctic last month raised the profile of industrial pollution in Russia, where companies are often punished with only small fines and hazardous waste can be left unaddressed for years due to bureaucracy.

Russia launches investigation for pollution after streams run orange

Protest in Moscow against reforms that could keep Putin in power till 2036

In a first for the Russian Navy, an all-female navy crew carried out patrols on the Black Sea on Friday in preparation for Russia's Navy Day celebrations later this month.

WION Dispatch: In a first for Russian Navy, All-female crew embarks on Black Sea patrol

Tens of thousands of protesters marched through the eastern Russian city of Khabarovsk on Saturday in support of a popular local governor arrested this week for allegedly ordering several murders.

A court in Moscow on Friday ruled to hold 50-year-old Sergei Furgal for two months pending trial for the murders of several businessmen 15 years ago, as he vehemently denied any involvement.

Furgal's nationalist Liberal-Democratic Party has thrown its weight behind the governor, and on Saturday said some "35,000 people came out to the streets" in Khabarovsk to protest his arrest.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-regional-governor-sergei-frugal-arrested-on-murder-charges-311914">Russia: Regional governor Sergei Frugal arrested on murder charges</a>

The local branch of supporters of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny said the protest attracted up to 40 thousand people, calling it an "absolute record for our region."

Smaller rallies were held in other cities in Khabarovsk region, reports said.

Popularly elected in 2018, Furgal embarrassed the ruling United Russia party, securing 70 percent of the vote.

His sudden arrest came just days after President Vladimir Putin,&nbsp;who has been in power for two decades,&nbsp;won a landslide ballot on constitutional reforms that could allow him to extend his rule until 2036.

Over 40,000 people have now signed a petition demanding Furgal's release.

Tens of thousands of protesters marched through the eastern Russian city of Khabarovsk on Saturday in support of a popular local governor arrested this week for allegedly ordering several murders.

Tens of thousands of protesters marched through the eastern Russian city of Khabarovsk on Saturday in support of a popular local governor arrested this week for allegedly ordering several murders. A court in Moscow on Friday ruled to hold 50-year-old Sergei Furgal for two months pending trial for the murders of several businessmen 15 years ago, as he vehemently denied any involvement. Furgal's nationalist Liberal-Democratic Party has thrown its weight behind the governor, and on Saturday said some "35,000 people came out to the streets" in Khabarovsk to protest his arrest. Also read| Russia: Regional governor Sergei Frugal arrested on murder charges The local branch of supporters of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny said the protest attracted up to 40 thousand people, calling it an "absolute record for our region." Smaller rallies were held in other cities in Khabarovsk region, reports said. Popularly elected in 2018, Furgal embarrassed the ruling United Russia party, securing 70 percent of the vote. His sudden arrest came just days after President Vladimir Putin, who has been in power for two decades, won a landslide ballot on constitutional reforms that could allow him to extend his rule until 2036. Over 40,000 people have now signed a petition demanding Furgal's release.

Massive protests in Russia after famous governor's arrest

Russian firefighters have been seeding clouds to bring down rain over wildfires raging in Siberia, the authorities said on Friday.

The Russian forestry agency said active work was underway to battle 158 forest fires covering 46,261 hectares as of Friday. Just a few days ago, that area was more than three times larger.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-bounties-top-us-general-vows-response-if-intel-confirmed-312273">Russian bounties: Top US general vows 'response' if intel confirmed</a>

Firefighters were using planes to fire chemicals into the clouds above fires in northern, remote parts of the Krasnoyarsk and Irkutsk regions of Siberia, the agency said.

Sweltering heat and dry weather have helped wildfires spread across the region and into the boreal forest and tundra that blanket northern Russia.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/vladamir-putin-the-modern-day-tsar-no-place-for-opposition-in-russia-311952/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Environmental group Greenpeace, which monitors the spread of wildfires in Russia, confirmed that rain has helped reduce fires in northern Siberia but that others had appeared in the south near the big regional cities of Irkutsk and Krasnoyarsk.

Greenpeace said that 4.62 million hectares of forest had burned across Russia since the start of the year.

States of emergency have been declared in the regions of Krasnoyarsk and Yakutia, and in parts of several other Russian regions.

Scientists say they expect record-breaking temperatures in Siberia - which reached as high as 38 Celsius (more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit) last month, according to reports - will continue to spawn wildfires and cause more greenhouse gases to be released into the air.

Copernicus, the EU's earth observation programme, said that temperatures in Arctic Siberia had soared to a record average for June, more than 5 degrees Celsius (9°F) above normal.

Russian firefighters have been seeding clouds to bring down rain over wildfires raging in Siberia, the authorities said on Friday. The Russian forestry agency said active work was underway to battle 158 forest fires covering 46,261 hectares as of Friday.

Russian firefighters have been seeding clouds to bring down rain over wildfires raging in Siberia, the authorities said on Friday. The Russian forestry agency said active work was underway to battle 158 forest fires covering 46,261 hectares as of Friday. Just a few days ago, that area was more than three times larger. Also read: Russian bounties: Top US general vows 'response' if intel confirmed Firefighters were using planes to fire chemicals into the clouds above fires in northern, remote parts of the Krasnoyarsk and Irkutsk regions of Siberia, the agency said. Sweltering heat and dry weather have helped wildfires spread across the region and into the boreal forest and tundra that blanket northern Russia. Environmental group Greenpeace, which monitors the spread of wildfires in Russia, confirmed that rain has helped reduce fires in northern Siberia but that others had appeared in the south near the big regional cities of Irkutsk and Krasnoyarsk. Greenpeace said that 4.62 million hectares of forest had burned across Russia since the start of the year. States of emergency have been declared in the regions of Krasnoyarsk and Yakutia, and in parts of several other Russian regions. Scientists say they expect record-breaking temperatures in Siberia - which reached as high as 38 Celsius (more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit) last month, according to reports - will continue to spawn wildfires and cause more greenhouse gases to be released into the air. Copernicus, the EU's earth observation programme, said that temperatures in Arctic Siberia had soared to a record average for June, more than 5 degrees Celsius (9°F) above normal.

Russia seeds clouds in Siberia to douse raging wildfires

Russia and China cast vetoes on Tuesday&nbsp;to block the U.N. Security Council from extending its approval of aid deliveries to Syria from Turkey for a year, despite U.N.&nbsp;warnings that the lives of Syrian civilians depend on the cross-border access.

Germany and Belgium, two of the council's non-permanent members, had drafted the resolution, which would have allowed aid to continue to pass through two points on the Turkish border without interference from Damascus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-russia-faces-chinas-ire-over-vladivostok-founding-day-celebrations-310368">Now, Russia faces China's ire over Vladivostok founding day celebrations</a>

The&nbsp;six-year long operation is currently authorized until Friday, so another draft resolution could still be put forward.

Beyond Russia and China, the other 13 council members voted to approve the draft, the diplomats said.

During negotiations, Moscow had asked that the extension be limited to six months, rather than a year, and that it only be allowed at one border crossing, not two, they said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/china-shows-greater-interest-in-syria-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-and-deteriorating-ties-with-the-us-305295">China shows greater interest in Syria amid coronavirus pandemic and deteriorating ties with the US</a>

"The draft resolution has not been adopted," Germany's UN ambassador Christoph Heusgen, the acting president of the body in July, confirmed in a letter to Council members.&nbsp;

Immediately after the vote, Russia proposed its own draft resolution.

Diplomats said Syrian allies Russia and China only want to approve one Turkish crossing for aid access for six months.

It repeats the call for a six-month extension, underlines the improvement in the delivery of humanitarian aid under the control of the Syrian regime, and excludes one of the two entry points into Syria,&nbsp;Bab al-Salam, from the mechanism.

The results of a vote on that resolution will be known on Wednesday.

Authorization for cross-border humanitarian aid has existed since 2014, with periodic extensions.&nbsp;

Russia and China cast vetoes on Tuesday to block the U.N. Security Council from extending its approval of aid deliveries to Syria from Turkey for a year, despite U.

Russia and China cast vetoes on Tuesday to block the U.N. Security Council from extending its approval of aid deliveries to Syria from Turkey for a year, despite U.N. warnings that the lives of Syrian civilians depend on the cross-border access. Germany and Belgium, two of the council's non-permanent members, had drafted the resolution, which would have allowed aid to continue to pass through two points on the Turkish border without interference from Damascus. Also read: Now, Russia faces China's ire over Vladivostok founding day celebrations The six-year long operation is currently authorized until Friday, so another draft resolution could still be put forward. Beyond Russia and China, the other 13 council members voted to approve the draft, the diplomats said. During negotiations, Moscow had asked that the extension be limited to six months, rather than a year, and that it only be allowed at one border crossing, not two, they said. Also read: China shows greater interest in Syria amid coronavirus pandemic and deteriorating ties with the US "The draft resolution has not been adopted," Germany's UN ambassador Christoph Heusgen, the acting president of the body in July, confirmed in a letter to Council members. Immediately after the vote, Russia proposed its own draft resolution. Diplomats said Syrian allies Russia and China only want to approve one Turkish crossing for aid access for six months. It repeats the call for a six-month extension, underlines the improvement in the delivery of humanitarian aid under the control of the Syrian regime, and excludes one of the two entry points into Syria, Bab al-Salam, from the mechanism. The results of a vote on that resolution will be known on Wednesday. Authorization for cross-border humanitarian aid has existed since 2014, with periodic extensions.

Russia, China veto UN extension of aid deliveries to Syria from Turkey

Russia&nbsp;said on Monday it had stepped up patrols to stop people hunting marmots near its border China and Mongolia after the countries reported possible cases of bubonic plague, which can be carried by the animals.

Authorities in Bayan Nur, a city in the Chinese region of Inner Mongolia, issued a warning on Sunday after a hospital reported a suspected case of the deadly disease.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bubonic-plague-yet-another-plague-originating-from-china-311196" hreflang="en">Bubonic plague: Yet another plague originating from China</a>

The Chinese region forbade the hunting and eating of the large rodents and asked the public to report any suspected cases, as well as any sick or dead marmots.

Neighbouring Mongolia also reported two cases of bubonic plague linked to people eating marmot meat in its western Khovd province last week.

Authorities in&nbsp;Russia's Altai region, which borders Kazakhstan, China and Mongolia, said officials were patrolling the area to enforce a ban on hunting marmots and to warn people about the dangers, TASS news agency reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/7-killer-viruses-that-emerged-in-china-and-ravaged-the-world-311142">In pics: 7 killer viruses that emerged in China and ravaged the world</a>

The local branch of Rospotrebnadzor, the consumer health watchdog, said the cases across the border did not pose a threat to people in Altai, TASS reported.

The bubonic plague, known as the "Black Death" in the Middle Ages, is a highly infectious and often fatal disease that is spread mostly by rodents. Bubonic plague outbreaks have become increasingly rare.

Russia said on Monday it had stepped up patrols to stop people hunting marmots near its border China and Mongolia after the countries reported possible cases of bubonic plague, which can be carried by the animals.

Russia said on Monday it had stepped up patrols to stop people hunting marmots near its border China and Mongolia after the countries reported possible cases of bubonic plague, which can be carried by the animals. Authorities in Bayan Nur, a city in the Chinese region of Inner Mongolia, issued a warning on Sunday after a hospital reported a suspected case of the deadly disease. Also read| Bubonic plague: Yet another plague originating from China The Chinese region forbade the hunting and eating of the large rodents and asked the public to report any suspected cases, as well as any sick or dead marmots. Neighbouring Mongolia also reported two cases of bubonic plague linked to people eating marmot meat in its western Khovd province last week. Authorities in Russia's Altai region, which borders Kazakhstan, China and Mongolia, said officials were patrolling the area to enforce a ban on hunting marmots and to warn people about the dangers, TASS news agency reported. In pics: 7 killer viruses that emerged in China and ravaged the world The local branch of Rospotrebnadzor, the consumer health watchdog, said the cases across the border did not pose a threat to people in Altai, TASS reported. The bubonic plague, known as the "Black Death" in the Middle Ages, is a highly infectious and often fatal disease that is spread mostly by rodents. Bubonic plague outbreaks have become increasingly rare.

Russia cracks down on marmot hunting after outbreaks trigger bubonic plague alert

Russia's opposition is denouncing this week's vote on President Vladimir Putin's constitutional reforms as a joke. The constitutional reforms will keep Vladimir Putin stick to his President's seat until 2036.

Russia's Constitutional Amendments will keep Putin in power until 2036

Russia holds its annual Victory Day parade in Moscow on Wednesday, commemorating the 75th anniversary of Nazi Germany’s capitulation in World War II.

Russia holds a massive show of military might in Moscow

President Vladimir Putin appealed to what he termed Russians' core values on Friday, the country's national day, as he sought to rally support for a vote on constitutional reforms that could potentially keep him in office until 2036.

President Vladimir Putin enthuses confidence ahead of vote

Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin said on Tuesday that Russia’s economic stimulus plan to help the economy recover after the coronavirus outbreak and lockdown

Russia's PM announces 2-year economic stimulus plan

Hundreds of Russian military contractors in Libya were evacuated on Monday after retreating from fighting on the capital's front lines

Russian fighters flown out of Libya after retreat of Haftar militia

The seasonal ice melting in the Yakutia and Krasnoyarsk regions of Russia caused a rise of water level in Siberian rivers, triggering floods in towns and villages.

Russia: Melting glaciers cause massive flooding, no casualties reported so far

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday announced a gradual easing of coronavirus lockdown measures despite a new surge in infections

Russia to begin easing some lockdown measures

russia-news

Russia News, News on Russia News, stories on Russia News, articles on Russia News, Russia News stories at Wion, Russia News news, Russia News latest news

russia news