Three 18-year-old female students from the Stroganov Russian State University of Art and Industry in Moscow have been sentenced to 11 months of ‘corrective labour’ after they filmed themselves twerking in front of the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and posted the video on TikTok.&nbsp;The three women were convicted of ‘petty hooliganism’, accused of violating the public order and insulting the public sentiment. Traditional values group Sorok Sorokov have called them an ‘infection’ and they will multiply if ‘left unchecked’.&nbsp;They were also expelled from the university. Vladimir Putin's Russia is trying to promote ‘traditional values’ and has himself attended the cathedral on several occasions. This is part of the broader crackdown under the current Russian government, emphasising conservative, traditional values, where self-expression is considered indecent, irrelevant and non-conforming to the state-endorsed morality.&nbsp;On his visit to Alaska, Putin gifted two Russian Orthodox icons to Archbishop Alexi of the Church of Alaska, where once Tsarist missionaries brought in Catholicism, and in return, Alexi gifted the Russian President an icon of Saint Herman.&nbsp;Similar crackdowns have targeted models who posted LGBTQ+ related content, like an OnlyFans model in Red Square and a couple kissing in public, resulting in public detentions, forced apologies and censorship. &nbsp;

In mid-August, three 18-year-old female students were arrested and sent to the 'Gulag' for making dancing videos in front of the Moscow Cathedral, outlining a broader pattern of crackdown on self-expression and imposing conservative values.

Three 18-year-old female students from the Stroganov Russian State University of Art and Industry in Moscow have been sentenced to 11 months of ‘corrective labour’ after they filmed themselves twerking in front of the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and posted the video on TikTok. The three women were convicted of ‘petty hooliganism’, accused of violating the public order and insulting the public sentiment. Traditional values group Sorok Sorokov have called them an ‘infection’ and they will multiply if ‘left unchecked’. They were also expelled from the university. Vladimir Putin's Russia is trying to promote ‘traditional values’ and has himself attended the cathedral on several occasions. This is part of the broader crackdown under the current Russian government, emphasising conservative, traditional values, where self-expression is considered indecent, irrelevant and non-conforming to the state-endorsed morality. On his visit to Alaska, Putin gifted two Russian Orthodox icons to Archbishop Alexi of the Church of Alaska, where once Tsarist missionaries brought in Catholicism, and in return, Alexi gifted the Russian President an icon of Saint Herman. Similar crackdowns have targeted models who posted LGBTQ+ related content, like an OnlyFans model in Red Square and a couple kissing in public, resulting in public detentions, forced apologies and censorship.

In mid-August, three 18-year-old female students were arrested and sent to the 'Gulag' for making dancing videos in front of the Moscow Cathedral, outlining a broader pattern of crackdown on self-expression and imposing conservative values.

Three Russian students jailed for twerking in front of Moscow Cathedral, nearly a year of ‘corrective labour’ in 'Gulag'

In a phone call, on August 12, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed the North Korean Troops for their “bravery, heroism and self-sacrificing spirit” in helping Russia liberate Krusk from Ukrainian forces. These phone calls come ahead of Putin's scheduled high-security meeting with US President Donald Trump on Friday at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. Russian mouthpiece Sputnik refers to these phone calls as prioritising the Global South leaders. Notably, after meeting with the US envoy led by Witkoff, Russian President Vladimir Putin had phone calls with India’s Modi, China’s Xi, South Africa’s Ramaphosa, Brazil’s Lula, and now North Korea's Kim Jong Un, briefing them on Ukraine talks.&nbsp;According to the Korean Central News Agency, Kim Jong Un thanked Putin for the recognition and pledged that the DPRK would “always remain faithful” and “fully support” all measures taken by Russia under the 2024 Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty. The pact has been a source of grave concern to Washington, Seoul, and NATO allies. The treaty binds the two nations in a military and strategic partnership.&nbsp;“There are a lot of ifs still in the air, but the call suggests there’s a role for Russia, similar to the role South Korea played in 2018, in helping create an opening for US-DPRK relations," said Jenny Town, the Director of the Korea programme at the Stimson Centre, Washington.The call is significant at the precursor of the Alaska Summit, according to Russian media, for the first time, “beyond NATO’s orbit, presidents are meeting multilaterally to talk war and peace”.&nbsp;This is the first time since his reelection as US President Donald Trump is going to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin. The image of Washington's two of the greatest adversaries aligning might not be something Trump was expecting. This does significantly give Putin leverage in diplomatic talks about the ceasefire.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin, ahead of the Alaska Summit, holds a crucial phone call with the DPRK leader Kim Jong Un to brief him on the latest Ukraine talks and lauded the effort of the North Korean troops in the Krusk Region.

In a phone call, on August 12, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed the North Korean Troops for their “bravery, heroism and self-sacrificing spirit” in helping Russia liberate Krusk from Ukrainian forces. These phone calls come ahead of Putin's scheduled high-security meeting with US President Donald Trump on Friday at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. Russian mouthpiece Sputnik refers to these phone calls as prioritising the Global South leaders. Notably, after meeting with the US envoy led by Witkoff, Russian President Vladimir Putin had phone calls with India’s Modi, China’s Xi, South Africa’s Ramaphosa, Brazil’s Lula, and now North Korea's Kim Jong Un, briefing them on Ukraine talks. According to the Korean Central News Agency, Kim Jong Un thanked Putin for the recognition and pledged that the DPRK would “always remain faithful” and “fully support” all measures taken by Russia under the 2024 Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty. The pact has been a source of grave concern to Washington, Seoul, and NATO allies. The treaty binds the two nations in a military and strategic partnership. “There are a lot of ifs still in the air, but the call suggests there’s a role for Russia, similar to the role South Korea played in 2018, in helping create an opening for US-DPRK relations," said Jenny Town, the Director of the Korea programme at the Stimson Centre, Washington. The call is significant at the precursor of the Alaska Summit, according to Russian media, for the first time, “beyond NATO’s orbit, presidents are meeting multilaterally to talk war and peace”. This is the first time since his reelection as US President Donald Trump is going to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin. The image of Washington's two of the greatest adversaries aligning might not be something Trump was expecting. This does significantly give Putin leverage in diplomatic talks about the ceasefire.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, ahead of the Alaska Summit, holds a crucial phone call with the DPRK leader Kim Jong Un to brief him on the latest Ukraine talks and lauded the effort of the North Korean troops in the Krusk Region.

Putin hails North Korean ‘Heroes’ in Kursk, Kim Jong Un vows unshakable alliance ahead of Russia-US summit

Russia is set to conduct a potentially dangerous test for the Burevestnik missile, also known as the SSC-X-9 Skyfall by NATO. This is significant because this is the only known nuclear-powered missile and a speculative or experimental concept. Some analysts called it a ‘flying Chernobyl’. &nbsp;The United States also had a nuclear-powered missile called SLAM or Supersonic Low Altitude Missile system in the 1950s. But it was later discontinued due to being extremely dangerous.Russian Authorities have shut down a 500-kilometre airspace corridor near Novaya Zemlya from August 7 to August 12, covering more than 40000 square km. Images from the satellites suggest intense weeks of preparation at the Pankovo test site. The Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom has deployed ships to the Barents Sea and aircraft to the nearby Rogachevo air base. This is the site where Russia have tested nuclear weapons and technology since 1950, according to <a href="https://www.thebarentsobserver.com/security/rosatom-may-test-reactorpowered-missile-over-the-next-few-days/434546">Barents Observer</a>.&nbsp;Burevetshnik has a theoretically unlimited range owing to the onboard nuclear reactor, and has been seen as President Vladimir Putin's most controversial nuclear weapon project. It can be equipped with both conventional and nuclear warheads. Burevetshnik, also known as Skyfall, can evade current missile defence systems. One potential drawback claimed by experts is its Subsonic speed, which hampers its stealth ability. It can fly at low altitude for longer distances and circumnavigate the globe, evading radar detection. But due to its slow speed, it might be prone to interception.&nbsp;The missile had been under development since 2010 and tested since 2017, with 13 tests showing mixed results, only two being positive. Notably, in 2019, during one test, the missile crashed in the White Sea, killing several scientists and releasing radiation. Experts warn that the test has the potential to scatter radioactive material across vast distances. Norwegian authorities, whose Finnmark region lies less than 1,000 kilometres from the test site, have voiced concern. The US has deployed its WC-135R ‘nuke sniffer’ aircraft to trace radioactivity in the region. Earlier in 2025, the United States decided to start its Golden Dome Project, which is a multi-layer defence system aimed at countering ballistic, hypersonic, and cruise missiles. A global arms race is on, with the new START treaty between the US and Russia set to expire by 2026."The Burevestnik is not a wonder weapon, and the challenges it poses for NATO security are neither new nor unmanageable," said Decker Eveleth from CNA Research Group. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Russia has declared a NOTAM from August  7-12 in the region, and it is preparing for another test for nuclear-powered, radar-evading, unlimited-range, Burevestnik aka SKYFALL missiles. There are concerns about accidents and radioactive emissions.

Russia is set to conduct a potentially dangerous test for the Burevestnik missile, also known as the SSC-X-9 Skyfall by NATO. This is significant because this is the only known nuclear-powered missile and a speculative or experimental concept. Some analysts called it a ‘flying Chernobyl’. The United States also had a nuclear-powered missile called SLAM or Supersonic Low Altitude Missile system in the 1950s. But it was later discontinued due to being extremely dangerous. Russian Authorities have shut down a 500-kilometre airspace corridor near Novaya Zemlya from August 7 to August 12, covering more than 40000 square km. Images from the satellites suggest intense weeks of preparation at the Pankovo test site. The Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom has deployed ships to the Barents Sea and aircraft to the nearby Rogachevo air base. This is the site where Russia have tested nuclear weapons and technology since 1950, according to Barents Observer. Burevetshnik has a theoretically unlimited range owing to the onboard nuclear reactor, and has been seen as President Vladimir Putin's most controversial nuclear weapon project. It can be equipped with both conventional and nuclear warheads. Burevetshnik, also known as Skyfall, can evade current missile defence systems. One potential drawback claimed by experts is its Subsonic speed, which hampers its stealth ability. It can fly at low altitude for longer distances and circumnavigate the globe, evading radar detection. But due to its slow speed, it might be prone to interception. The missile had been under development since 2010 and tested since 2017, with 13 tests showing mixed results, only two being positive. Notably, in 2019, during one test, the missile crashed in the White Sea, killing several scientists and releasing radiation. Experts warn that the test has the potential to scatter radioactive material across vast distances. Norwegian authorities, whose Finnmark region lies less than 1,000 kilometres from the test site, have voiced concern. The US has deployed its WC-135R ‘nuke sniffer’ aircraft to trace radioactivity in the region. Earlier in 2025, the United States decided to start its Golden Dome Project, which is a multi-layer defence system aimed at countering ballistic, hypersonic, and cruise missiles. A global arms race is on, with the new START treaty between the US and Russia set to expire by 2026. "The Burevestnik is not a wonder weapon, and the challenges it poses for NATO security are neither new nor unmanageable," said Decker Eveleth from CNA Research Group.

Russia has declared a NOTAM from August &nbsp;7-12 in the region, and it is preparing for another test for nuclear-powered, radar-evading, unlimited-range, Burevestnik aka SKYFALL missiles. There are concerns about accidents and radioactive emissions.

Russia's nuclear-powered, radar-evading, unlimited-range, Burevestnik aka SKYFALL missile test spark fear of radioactive emission in arctic

In Russia’s&nbsp;Dagestan, a donkey was harnessed and made to zipline. The animal was seen hurriedly moving its limbs as it was mid-air, the video of which has sparked outrage. Reports suggest that it was a bizarre stunt pulled to attract tourists. After public outrage, the police did take cognisance of the matter. As per news outlet RT, the police said they can’t press charges: the animal wasn’t injured, and there’s no way to tell if it was traumatised or had a great time.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Donkey sent down a zipline in Russia&#39;s Dagestan After public outrage, police say they can’t press charges: the animal wasn’t injured, and there’s no way to tell if it was traumatized or had a great time <a href="https://t.co/Ou7My4bXam">pic.twitter.com/Ou7My4bXam</a>&mdash; RT (@RT_com) <a href="https://twitter.com/RT_com/status/1953072301882192040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Many have called out the act of cruelty against the animal. Netizens have posted their opinion online, an X user, Susie wrote, “Not cool. I can tell donkey is not happy.” Livia seconded that with, “The animal did not have a choice. Would they say the same thing if it was a 1 years old baby?”The video makes it evident that the donkey is not having fun, even though it landed safely, that probably is the best part of the entire episode. Which otherwise had every element of it going down south. Another X user wrote, “No injuries, sure — but guessing if it “had fun” isn’t exactly science. Bit over the line.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-bans-zara-ads-for-featuring-unhealthily-thin-models-1754503146174/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-bans-zara-ads-for-featuring-unhealthily-thin-models-1754503146174/embed</a>&nbsp; A discussion on it being a great way to transport animal also emerged amid the backlash. One post read, “Looks like a safe way to transport an animal a great distance in mountainous terrain.” And another added to it, “That’s how it’s done in those parts of the world. Did you notice how far apart the distance between the two locations and height are? That’s how it is and will be.” This episode may have garnered attention as in 2010, a donkey was made to parasail and it was a part of an advertising stunt. The animal was traumatised and regional police spokeswoman Larisa Tuchkova’s quote to news agency AFP was a testimony. She said, "The donkey screamed, and children cried.”

A donkey in Russia was harnessed and made to zipline in Dagestan. The police has taken cognisance of the matter but are unsure if the animal 'was traumatised or had a great time’.

In Russia’s Dagestan, a donkey was harnessed and made to zipline. The animal was seen hurriedly moving its limbs as it was mid-air, the video of which has sparked outrage. Reports suggest that it was a bizarre stunt pulled to attract tourists. After public outrage, the police did take cognisance of the matter. As per news outlet RT, the police said they can’t press charges: the animal wasn’t injured, and there’s no way to tell if it was traumatised or had a great time.

A donkey in Russia was harnessed and made to zipline in Dagestan. The police has taken cognisance of the matter but are unsure if the animal 'was traumatised or had a great time’.

Donkey made to zipline in Russia. Police says, 'no way to tell if it was traumatised or had a great time'

The Russian Foreign Ministry, in a statement on August 4, announced that it “no longer considers itself bound by the previously adopted self-imposed restrictions”. Russia's Former President Medvedev blamed 'NATO's anti-Russian policies'. Notably, the United States had already left the treaty on August 2, 2019, accusing Russia of violating it. Russia continued its self-imposed freeze, and it formally walked out of the deal on Monday.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">⚡️ As the situation evolves with US-made ground-based INF systems being deployed in Europe and the Asia-Pacific, <a href="https://twitter.com/mfa_russia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mfa_russia</a> states that conditions for maintaining a unilateral moratorium on the deployment of similar systems have ceased to exist.<a href="https://t.co/SMrA7xtKlz">https://t.co/SMrA7xtKlz</a> <a href="https://t.co/9wop8YQWVl">pic.twitter.com/9wop8YQWVl</a>&mdash; MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) <a href="https://twitter.com/mfa_russia/status/1952465970318237862?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Dmitry Medvedev, responding to the announcement by the Russian Foreign Ministry, wrote on x, “This is a new reality all our opponents will have to reckon with. Expect further steps.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Russian Foreign Ministry&#39;s statement on the withdrawal of the moratorium on the deployment of medium- and short-range missiles is the result of NATO countries’ anti-Russian policy. This is a new reality all our opponents will have to reckon with. Expect further steps.&mdash; Dmitry Medvedev (@MedvedevRussiaE) <a href="https://twitter.com/MedvedevRussiaE/status/1952452686802198557?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What is the Intermediate Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty? How is it relevant?</h2>Signed in 1987, &nbsp;it was a significant step to control the Cold War era arms infrastructure. The treaty required the “United States and the Soviet Union to eliminate and permanently forswear all of their nuclear and conventional ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges of 500 to 5,500 km.” As a result of the treaty Soviet Union and the United States destroyed 2,692 short, medium and intermediate-range missiles. The United States had already left the treaty during the 1st term of the Trump administration, citing violations from Russia, specifically Russia’s 9M729 missile system, also known as the SSC-8 missiles. The US intelligence had been accusing Russia of violating the treaty since 2014. Russia denied any such violations and had maintained a voluntary freeze on similar systems up until now. &nbsp;However, Russia has reportedly used the Oreshnik missiles on Ukraine in November, and Oreshnik's range is also a supposed violation of the INF treaty. &nbsp;The treaty was the post-Cold War arms control architecture. It was technically a nuclear arms control treaty, even if it applied to conventional ones. Russia cited US action, specifically the deployment of Typhoon missile launchers with Tomahawk cruise missiles in the Philippines and Dark Eagle hypersonic systems used in Australia during the Talisman Sabre drills. Notably, Russia has already withdrawn from the New START (2010) treaty in February 2023, and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) in November 2023. The cancellation of the treaty marks a pivotal moment and the restart of a Cold War-style arms race.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Russia has formally decided to end its participation in the Intermediate Nuclear Forces treaty. Former Russian President blamed NATO for its anti-Russia policy and warned of further steps, without mentioning any specifics. 

The Russian Foreign Ministry, in a statement on August 4, announced that it “no longer considers itself bound by the previously adopted self-imposed restrictions”. Russia's Former President Medvedev blamed 'NATO's anti-Russian policies'. Notably, the United States had already left the treaty on August 2, 2019, accusing Russia of violating it. Russia continued its self-imposed freeze, and it formally walked out of the deal on Monday.

Russia has formally decided to end its participation in the Intermediate Nuclear Forces treaty. Former Russian President blamed NATO for its anti-Russia policy and warned of further steps, without mentioning any specifics.&nbsp;

Russia walks out of cold-war era nuclear arms control agreement, Medvedev blames NATO's 'anti-Russian policies'

Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has issued a stark reminder to US President Donald Trump about Russia's devastating nuclear strike capabilities, including its so-called ‘Doomsday’ systems. The warning came amid escalating rhetoric between world powers. Notably, Trump warned Medvedev to ‘watch his words.’&nbsp;In a post on Truth Social, Trump responded to the remarks of Dmitry Medvedev, saying he was a failure as a President. Medvedv, who is the Deputy Chairman of Russia's Security Council, had been matching Trump's maglomaniac standards in the war of words. He had mocked Trump's ‘ultimatum’ to Russia of 10 days to end the Ukrainian invasion with his eagerness for war.&nbsp;Trump warned that if a ceasefire is not reached within 10 days, he will impose sanctions on Russia and its oil buyers. &nbsp;He said, both Russia and India can go down with their ‘dead economy’. In response, Medvedev reminded Trump about his favourite film, ‘Walking Dead’, recalling the Soviet era, how dangerous the fabled 'Dead Hand' can be.<h2>What is the ‘Dead Hand’?</h2>Dead Hand, also known as the Perimeter, is a Cold War-era semi-automated nuclear retaliation system. It is termed as Russia's ‘Doomsday Device’, it is for a post-apocalyptic scenario. The terrifying purpose of this device is to launch a retaliatory nuclear strike even if the Russian leadership is completely wiped out. The dead hand is designed to detect nuclear strikes through seismic, radiation, and pressure sensors. Then it would check if the Russian hierarchy of command is still functional. If communication from the top leadership is lost and no human input is received, it will automatically trigger a nuclear launch from the missile silos, submarines and mobile launchers at pre-set targets. The machine is the last resort to ensure mutual destruction. The Doomsday Radio is believed to be the communication system for the dead hand; it transmits commands, launch codes to the dead hand. It is an ultra-low-frequency radio system that is designed to survive if all communication systems are destroyed. Together, they make the doomsday system, the last stage of Cold War era deterrence. Even though the reality of Doomsday Radio is debatable, the Dead Hand is real. But much about it is shrouded in mystery.

Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev's war of words with Donald Trump has heated up, and he issued a stark reminder to Donald Trump about the danger of the Russian ‘dead hand’ that can be? 

Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has issued a stark reminder to US President Donald Trump about Russia's devastating nuclear strike capabilities, including its so-called ‘Doomsday’ systems. The warning came amid escalating rhetoric between world powers. Notably, Trump warned Medvedev to ‘watch his words.’ In a post on Truth Social, Trump responded to the remarks of Dmitry Medvedev, saying he was a failure as a President. Medvedv, who is the Deputy Chairman of Russia's Security Council, had been matching Trump's maglomaniac standards in the war of words. He had mocked Trump's ‘ultimatum’ to Russia of 10 days to end the Ukrainian invasion with his eagerness for war. Trump warned that if a ceasefire is not reached within 10 days, he will impose sanctions on Russia and its oil buyers. He said, both Russia and India can go down with their ‘dead economy’. In response, Medvedev reminded Trump about his favourite film, ‘Walking Dead’, recalling the Soviet era, how dangerous the fabled 'Dead Hand' can be. What is the ‘Dead Hand’? Dead Hand, also known as the Perimeter, is a Cold War-era semi-automated nuclear retaliation system. It is termed as Russia's ‘Doomsday Device’, it is for a post-apocalyptic scenario. The terrifying purpose of this device is to launch a retaliatory nuclear strike even if the Russian leadership is completely wiped out. The dead hand is designed to detect nuclear strikes through seismic, radiation, and pressure sensors. Then it would check if the Russian hierarchy of command is still functional. If communication from the top leadership is lost and no human input is received, it will automatically trigger a nuclear launch from the missile silos, submarines and mobile launchers at pre-set targets. The machine is the last resort to ensure mutual destruction. The Doomsday Radio is believed to be the communication system for the dead hand; it transmits commands, launch codes to the dead hand. It is an ultra-low-frequency radio system that is designed to survive if all communication systems are destroyed. Together, they make the doomsday system, the last stage of Cold War era deterrence. Even though the reality of Doomsday Radio is debatable, the Dead Hand is real. But much about it is shrouded in mystery.

Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev's war of words with Donald Trump has heated up, and he issued a stark reminder to Donald Trump about the danger of the Russian ‘dead hand’

Russia's dead hand: What is Medvedev warning Trump about?

Russia's Kamchatka region was hit with a massive earthquake at local time 4:15 am on July 30. Within minutes, a 4-meter-long tsunami has struck the eastern coast, specifically the Kuril Islands. The mayor of the Kuril Islands confirmed that everyone has successfully evacuated to safety, following the tsunami which caused flooding and swept away buildings. &nbsp;Authorities in Japan, Hawaii, Alaska, Mexico, and other coastal regions issued alerts as fears of further shaking and tidal surges spread worldwide. This occasion was the largest earthquake in the region since 1952, when an earthquake of magnitude 9 hit the same subduction zone, triggering a devastating tsunami which spread as far as Hawaii.<h2>What makes Kamchatka a seismic hotspot?</h2>Kamchatka's high seismic activity stems from its proximity to the Pacific Ring of Fire. The region is notorious for its frequent volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. The Kuril–Kamchatka Trench lies on top of the subduction zone where the Pacific Plate is sliding beneath the Okhotsk Plate at a speed of 77-86 mm per year. &nbsp;This process of one plate sliding beneath another is known as Subduction, and it produces huge geological stresses and resulting in massive thrusts or earthquakes.The region also has 160 volcanoes, among which 29 are active and display constant tectonic movements. There had been at least 7 earthquakes of magnitude 8.3 and above since 1900. The deadliest came in 1952 when an earthquake of magnitude 9 hit the region, triggering a trans-Pacific tsunami of height 9.1 meters and killing over 2,300 people.The July 30, 2025, earthquake was generated at a depth of 19–20 km and produced a tsunami wave of 3-5 meters, damaging coastal towns and infrastructure such as schools and hospitals/

Located at the Pacific Ring of Fire, Kamchatka is one of the most observed regions for seismic activity and has produced several damaging earthquakes. Today's earthquake was the largest in magnitude in last 73 years.

Russia's Kamchatka region was hit with a massive earthquake at local time 4:15 am on July 30. Within minutes, a 4-meter-long tsunami has struck the eastern coast, specifically the Kuril Islands. The mayor of the Kuril Islands confirmed that everyone has successfully evacuated to safety, following the tsunami which caused flooding and swept away buildings. Authorities in Japan, Hawaii, Alaska, Mexico, and other coastal regions issued alerts as fears of further shaking and tidal surges spread worldwide. This occasion was the largest earthquake in the region since 1952, when an earthquake of magnitude 9 hit the same subduction zone, triggering a devastating tsunami which spread as far as Hawaii. What makes Kamchatka a seismic hotspot? Kamchatka's high seismic activity stems from its proximity to the Pacific Ring of Fire. The region is notorious for its frequent volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. The Kuril–Kamchatka Trench lies on top of the subduction zone where the Pacific Plate is sliding beneath the Okhotsk Plate at a speed of 77-86 mm per year. This process of one plate sliding beneath another is known as Subduction, and it produces huge geological stresses and resulting in massive thrusts or earthquakes. The region also has 160 volcanoes, among which 29 are active and display constant tectonic movements. There had been at least 7 earthquakes of magnitude 8.3 and above since 1900. The deadliest came in 1952 when an earthquake of magnitude 9 hit the region, triggering a trans-Pacific tsunami of height 9.1 meters and killing over 2,300 people. The July 30, 2025, earthquake was generated at a depth of 19–20 km and produced a tsunami wave of 3-5 meters, damaging coastal towns and infrastructure such as schools and hospitals/

Located at the Pacific Ring of Fire, Kamchatka is one of the most observed regions for seismic activity and has produced several damaging earthquakes. Today's earthquake was the largest in magnitude in the last 73 years.

Kamchatka, Russia earthquake today: The real reason this remote Russian region shakes so often

Months after an earthquake of magnitude 7.7 jolted Myanmar's Sagaing on March 28, 2025, claiming over 5000 lives, another massive earthquake of magnitude 8.8 struck off Russia's far eastern Kamchatka Peninsula on Wednesday (July 30). Later, the powerful quake prompted a tsunami warning in the Pacific Ocean, which triggered evacuations across Russia, Japan, and Hawaii.&nbsp;After the major-to-minor earthquake in the recent past, you might be wondering which countries are frequently hit by massive earthquakes. As you know, when the quake hits, it reshapes landscapes, infrastructure, economies, and lives in seconds.&nbsp;Numerous Asian countries are highly prone to earthquakes. China and Indonesia are experiencing the most seismic activity, and when looked at in relative terms, Japan records the highest number of earthquakes globally.&nbsp;Based on seismic records and NOAA’s data, here is the list of the top 10 countries frequently hit by major earthquakes over the last three decades.<h3>10. Afghanistan</h3>Afghanistan has secured the 10th spot across the world after it endured repeated earthquakes, particularly in its northeastern and central provinces. The Hindu Kush region is a hotspot for seismic and tectonic activity due to the collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates.&nbsp;<h3>9. Mexico</h3>Like many living organisms nestled within the fiery embrace of the Pacific Ocean's Ring of Fire, Mexico has a deep connection with earthquakes. The land is in the range of shifting tectonic plates, making earthquakes frequent in the region.<h3>8. Philippines</h3>With a total of 553 earthquakes and 55 major earthquakes, the Philippines places 8th. This land regularly experiences strong earthquakes due to the Philippine Sea Plate’s interaction with the Eurasian Plate. The most devastating earthquake on this land was in 1990, when Luzon Island was hit by a 7.7 magnitude quake, claiming the lives of 2,412 people.<h3>7. India</h3>India ranks 7th, as the northeast and Himalayan belt are highly earthquake-prone due to continuous seismic activity and tectonic collision with the Eurasian Plate. The 2001 Gujarat earthquake was one of the most devastating earthquakes, which claimed over 20,000 lives.<h3>6. Turkey</h3>Turkey holds the 6th spot in terms of the most earthquakes, as it lies along the North Anatolian Fault, a major east-west fault line that has produced multiple deadly quakes. The 1999 İzmit and the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes are among the most destructive in history. According to official figures, at least 18,373 people died and 48,901 people were injured during the 1999 İzmit earthquake, and the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes claimed over 50,000 lives.<h3>5. United States</h3>The US witnessed the most seismic activity in California and Alaska. The San Andreas Fault is quite popular for coming up with destructive quakes, and Alaska also experiences some of the strongest earthquakes in North America. From 1990 to 2024, the US has experienced a total of 78 massive earthquakes, claiming several lives.<h3>4. Japan</h3>Japan also faces some of the strongest tremors in the world. It is located squarely on the Ring of Fire, which prompts frequent earthquakes. The massive and hazardous quakes on this land include the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, which killed at least 20,000 people. The region has witnessed a total of 98 major earthquakes as of 2024.<h3>3. Iran</h3>Due to its location at the collision zone between the Arabian and Eurasian tectonic plates, Iran is highly prone to earthquakes, securing at 3rd spot. The massive quakes in cities such as Bam in 2003 and Manjil-Rudbar in 1990 have devastated them, claiming several lives and destroying major infrastructure.<h3>2. Indonesia</h3>Indonesia is the most seismically active nation in the world, as it is also situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire, which has been hit by around 1000 earthquakes and 166 massive earthquakes since 1990. The 2004 Sumatra quake and tsunami remain one of the deadliest disasters across the world, as it claimed the lives of over 2 lakh people.<h3>1. China</h3>China tops the list with a total of 186 powerful earthquakes since 1990. Its western and southwestern regions, especially along the Longmenshan and Himalayan fault lines, are a highly seismic zone. The Sichuan earthquake in 2008 and the Tangshan quake in 1976 caused massive loss of life and infrastructure damage. &nbsp;

After several earthquakes in the recent past, you might be wondering which countries are frequently hit by massive earthquakes. Here is the list of the top 10 countries frequently hit by major earthquakes.
 

Months after an earthquake of magnitude 7.7 jolted Myanmar's Sagaing on March 28, 2025, claiming over 5000 lives, another massive earthquake of magnitude 8.8 struck off Russia's far eastern Kamchatka Peninsula on Wednesday (July 30). Later, the powerful quake prompted a tsunami warning in the Pacific Ocean, which triggered evacuations across Russia, Japan, and Hawaii. After the major-to-minor earthquake in the recent past, you might be wondering which countries are frequently hit by massive earthquakes. As you know, when the quake hits, it reshapes landscapes, infrastructure, economies, and lives in seconds. Numerous Asian countries are highly prone to earthquakes. China and Indonesia are experiencing the most seismic activity, and when looked at in relative terms, Japan records the highest number of earthquakes globally. Based on seismic records and NOAA’s data, here is the list of the top 10 countries frequently hit by major earthquakes over the last three decades. 10. Afghanistan Afghanistan has secured the 10th spot across the world after it endured repeated earthquakes, particularly in its northeastern and central provinces. The Hindu Kush region is a hotspot for seismic and tectonic activity due to the collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates. 9. Mexico Like many living organisms nestled within the fiery embrace of the Pacific Ocean's Ring of Fire, Mexico has a deep connection with earthquakes. The land is in the range of shifting tectonic plates, making earthquakes frequent in the region. 8. Philippines With a total of 553 earthquakes and 55 major earthquakes, the Philippines places 8th. This land regularly experiences strong earthquakes due to the Philippine Sea Plate’s interaction with the Eurasian Plate. The most devastating earthquake on this land was in 1990, when Luzon Island was hit by a 7.7 magnitude quake, claiming the lives of 2,412 people. 7. India India ranks 7th, as the northeast and Himalayan belt are highly earthquake-prone due to continuous seismic activity and tectonic collision with the Eurasian Plate. The 2001 Gujarat earthquake was one of the most devastating earthquakes, which claimed over 20,000 lives. 6. Turkey Turkey holds the 6th spot in terms of the most earthquakes, as it lies along the North Anatolian Fault, a major east-west fault line that has produced multiple deadly quakes. The 1999 İzmit and the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes are among the most destructive in history. According to official figures, at least 18,373 people died and 48,901 people were injured during the 1999 İzmit earthquake, and the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes claimed over 50,000 lives. 5. United States The US witnessed the most seismic activity in California and Alaska. The San Andreas Fault is quite popular for coming up with destructive quakes, and Alaska also experiences some of the strongest earthquakes in North America. From 1990 to 2024, the US has experienced a total of 78 massive earthquakes, claiming several lives. 4. Japan Japan also faces some of the strongest tremors in the world. It is located squarely on the Ring of Fire, which prompts frequent earthquakes. The massive and hazardous quakes on this land include the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, which killed at least 20,000 people. The region has witnessed a total of 98 major earthquakes as of 2024. 3. Iran Due to its location at the collision zone between the Arabian and Eurasian tectonic plates, Iran is highly prone to earthquakes, securing at 3rd spot. The massive quakes in cities such as Bam in 2003 and Manjil-Rudbar in 1990 have devastated them, claiming several lives and destroying major infrastructure. 2. Indonesia Indonesia is the most seismically active nation in the world, as it is also situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire, which has been hit by around 1000 earthquakes and 166 massive earthquakes since 1990. The 2004 Sumatra quake and tsunami remain one of the deadliest disasters across the world, as it claimed the lives of over 2 lakh people. 1. China China tops the list with a total of 186 powerful earthquakes since 1990. Its western and southwestern regions, especially along the Longmenshan and Himalayan fault lines, are a highly seismic zone. The Sichuan earthquake in 2008 and the Tangshan quake in 1976 caused massive loss of life and infrastructure damage.

After several earthquakes in the recent past, you might be wondering which countries are frequently hit by massive earthquakes. Here is the list of the top 10 countries frequently hit by major earthquakes. &nbsp;

Shaking the Earth: Top 10 countries most affected by Earthquakes—Where does India stand?

Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev on Monday, in a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), warned US President Donald Trump not to play the 'ultimatum game' and not to go down the ‘Sleepy Joe road’! Every threat of ultimatum is considered from Russia's side as a step towards war.&nbsp;“Each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war. Not between Russia and Ukraine, but with his own country. Don't go down the Sleepy Joe road!” wrote Medvedev.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Trump&#39;s playing the ultimatum game with Russia: 50 days or 10… He should remember 2 things: 1. Russia isn&#39;t Israel or even Iran. 2. Each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war. Not between Russia and Ukraine, but with his own country. Don&#39;t go down the Sleepy Joe road!&mdash; Dmitry Medvedev (@MedvedevRussiaE) <a href="https://twitter.com/MedvedevRussiaE/status/1949870764938711343?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Dmitry Medvedev, who is known for his evocative comments, has drawn a reaction from US Senator Lindsey Graham. He was quick to defend US President Donald Trump's position to end the war.In a reply to Medvedev's post, he wrote, “You and your customers will soon be sadly mistaken. You will also soon see that Joe Biden is no longer president. Get to the peace table.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">To those in Russia who believe that President Trump is not serious about ending the bloodbath between Russia and Ukraine: You and your customers will soon be sadly mistaken. You will also soon see that Joe Biden is no longer president. Get to the peace table. <a href="https://t.co/IRWk9I0Ljf">https://t.co/IRWk9I0Ljf</a>&mdash; Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) <a href="https://twitter.com/LindseyGrahamSC/status/1949938809095016804?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

US President Donald had earlier in the month given a 50-day ultimatum to Russia to end hostilities with Ukraine. But Trump was growing impatient at Russia's reluctance to negotiate a peace. On Monday, he reduced the time frame from 50 days to a 10-12-day period.&nbsp;"I've spoken to President Putin a lot, I've gotten along with him very well," he said, adding that Putin “goes out and starts launching rockets into some city, like Kyiv, and kills a lot of people in a nursing home or whatever, you have bodies lying all over the street.”The US had threatened to impose a 100 per cent tariff on Russia and its trading partners unless an agreement on resolving the Ukraine conflict was achieved within 50 days. The US had also continued to send weapons to Kyiv as long as the EU vows to pay for it.&nbsp;

Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has hit out at US President Donald Trump, saying Russia is neither Israel nor Iran, and it is not afraid of any ultimatum from anyone.

Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev on Monday, in a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), warned US President Donald Trump not to play the 'ultimatum game' and not to go down the ‘Sleepy Joe road’! Every threat of ultimatum is considered from Russia's side as a step towards war. “Each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war. Not between Russia and Ukraine, but with his own country. Don't go down the Sleepy Joe road!” wrote Medvedev.

Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has hit back at US President Donald Trump, saying Russia is neither Israel nor Iran, and it is not afraid of any ultimatum from anyone.

Russia unfazed by Trump's ultimatum – 'Every threat is a step towards war'

Rescuers found no survivors at the site where an Antonov An-24 plane crashed in Russia's far eastern Amur region on Thursday. "A ground rescue team from the Russian emergencies ministry is surveying the scene of the incident and conducting search operations. As of now, there are no survivors," said the authorities. The plane was carrying about 50 people. The Antonov An-24 plane was nearly 50 years old, manufactured in the Soviet Union era. The plane crashed in a forested area.&nbsp;The plane was owned by a Siberia-based airline called Angara. The Russian aircraft's tail number showed it was built in 1976. Before the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, it used to be operated by Aeroflot. The plane was travelling from Blagoveshchensk to Tynda, an important railway station in the region.&nbsp;43 passengers, including five children and six crew members, were on board the plane. The fuselage of the aircraft, as seen from a helicopter, was on fire.&nbsp;&nbsp;Angara airline, based in the Siberian city of Irkutsk, operates 10 An-24s built between 1972 and 1976. These planes are called flying tractors.&nbsp;An-24s are propeller-driven planes. They are reliable planes, rugged enough to withstand the harsh weather conditions of Siberia. They can operate with ease in sub-zero temperatures and can land on uneven runways.&nbsp;The cost of repairing these planes has increased over the years because of Western sanctions against Russia. Many of these planes are due for retirement from service. However, airlines are keeping them in their inventory because there are no replacements as of now. They are waiting for the replacement of An-24, Landoga, whose production will not begin until 2027.&nbsp;Russia has taken steps to switch from Soviet aircraft to modern jets in recent years, but ageing light aircraft are still widely used in far-flung regions.&nbsp;Weather conditions at the time of the incident were poor, Angara Airlines CEO Sergei Salamanov told Russia's REN TV channel. "The commander made the decision to carry out the flight," he was quoted as saying.

Rescuers found no survivors at the site where an Antonov An-24 plane crashed in Russia's far eastern Amur region on Thursday.

Rescuers found no survivors at the site where an Antonov An-24 plane crashed in Russia's far eastern Amur region on Thursday. "A ground rescue team from the Russian emergencies ministry is surveying the scene of the incident and conducting search operations. As of now, there are no survivors," said the authorities. The plane was carrying about 50 people. The Antonov An-24 plane was nearly 50 years old, manufactured in the Soviet Union era. The plane crashed in a forested area. The plane was owned by a Siberia-based airline called Angara. The Russian aircraft's tail number showed it was built in 1976. Before the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, it used to be operated by Aeroflot. The plane was travelling from Blagoveshchensk to Tynda, an important railway station in the region. 43 passengers, including five children and six crew members, were on board the plane. The fuselage of the aircraft, as seen from a helicopter, was on fire. Angara airline, based in the Siberian city of Irkutsk, operates 10 An-24s built between 1972 and 1976. These planes are called flying tractors. An-24s are propeller-driven planes. They are reliable planes, rugged enough to withstand the harsh weather conditions of Siberia. They can operate with ease in sub-zero temperatures and can land on uneven runways. The cost of repairing these planes has increased over the years because of Western sanctions against Russia. Many of these planes are due for retirement from service. However, airlines are keeping them in their inventory because there are no replacements as of now. They are waiting for the replacement of An-24, Landoga, whose production will not begin until 2027. Russia has taken steps to switch from Soviet aircraft to modern jets in recent years, but ageing light aircraft are still widely used in far-flung regions. Weather conditions at the time of the incident were poor, Angara Airlines CEO Sergei Salamanov told Russia's REN TV channel. "The commander made the decision to carry out the flight," he was quoted as saying.

Russian plane crash: The Russian An-24 aircraft tail number showed it was constructed in 1976.

Russian plane crash: Why Soviet-era An-24 aircraft called flying tractors?

Harrowing footage of the Russian showing wreckage of the Russian An-24 flight that crashed in the country’s far east region of Amur on Thursday (Jul 24) has surfaced on social media. The short video captures the damaged aircraft engulfed in flames as plumes of smoke emerge in what appears to be a forest. Authorities reported that no survivors were found following a search at the crash site. The plane was carrying 49 people on board and went missing before a rescue helicopter reported spotting its fuselage on a mountainside about 16 kilometres from Tynda.&nbsp;According to the local emergencies ministry, the Antonov An-24 aircraft, operated by a Siberia-based airline, Angara, dropped off the radar screens some kilometres away from its destination, Tynda, a town bordering China. Reports indicated that the passenger plane disappeared during its second landing attempt after it failed to land at the Tynda airport in its first attempt.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;“An Mi-8 helicopter operated by Rosaviatsiya (Russia's civil aviation authority) has spotted the burning fuselage of the aircraft,” Russia's emergencies ministry said, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;The preliminary data has suggested that 43 passengers were on board, including five children, along with six crew members. Authorities said that an investigation has been launched to identify the cause of the tragic incident. Russian news agency TASS reported that the plane crashed due to a crew error amid poor visibility during landing.&nbsp;Earlier, media reported that the plane went missing as air traffic controllers lost contact with the aircraft. “The An-24 plane was flying along the Khabarovsk-Blagoveshchensk-Tynda route. It failed to pass security checks near its final destination. There is no contact with it,” Interfax reported citing emergency services.&nbsp;Developed in the 1950s, the Antonov An-24 is widely used in Russia for both cargo and passenger transport with over 1,000 units produced.

Video shows wreckage of Russian plane that crashed in eastern Russia, killing all 49 on board. The aircraft disappeared from the radar, and its fuselage was spotted engulfed in flames.

Harrowing footage of the Russian showing wreckage of the Russian An-24 flight that crashed in the country’s far east region of Amur on Thursday (Jul 24) has surfaced on social media. The short video captures the damaged aircraft engulfed in flames as plumes of smoke emerge in what appears to be a forest. Authorities reported that no survivors were found following a search at the crash site. The plane was carrying 49 people on board and went missing before a rescue helicopter reported spotting its fuselage on a mountainside about 16 kilometres from Tynda. According to the local emergencies ministry, the Antonov An-24 aircraft, operated by a Siberia-based airline, Angara, dropped off the radar screens some kilometres away from its destination, Tynda, a town bordering China. Reports indicated that the passenger plane disappeared during its second landing attempt after it failed to land at the Tynda airport in its first attempt.

Video shows wreckage of Russian plane that crashed in eastern Russia, killing all 49 on board. The aircraft disappeared from the radar, and its fuselage was spotted engulfed in flames.

Footage captures burning wreckage of crashed Russian plane; all 49 aboard dead | Video

Russia had been under the sanctions from the West as early as the 2010s, specifically after 2014, since the annexation of Crimea. But Chinese President Xi Jinping had been Russia's ally for a long time. On the windy plains of inner Mongolia, in the borders of Russia and China, a dusty town of just 200,000 people is playing an outsized role in the survival of a global pariah.&nbsp;Welcome to Manzhouli, a sleepless border town in China that has quietly transformed into the lifeline of the Russian Economy. Manzhouli, also known as the gateway to the east, &nbsp;is China's largest inland port with direct rail and road links to Russia via the Trans-Siberian and Chinese Eastern Railway. Nearly 60 per cent of all freight flown between the nations is handled by this town. With hundreds of trucks and railcars crossing the border regularly.&nbsp;After Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, it faced severe sanctions from Western nations. But China's staunch support of Russia's economy has helped them survive. Export to China accounts for nearly 6 per cent of the Russian economy.&nbsp;It started as a gateway for raw material; now it accounts for processing them as well. Russian timbers, methanol, rapeseed oil, and liquefied petroleum gas are now being refined in Manzhouli-based industrial hubs. These facilities give Russia a backdoor entry to the Western market.&nbsp;“The raw goods come in, we refine them here, and export them further,” said a local logistics manager quoted by The New York Times. “Everyone benefits. Especially the Russians.”Local authorities have heavily invested in the infrastructure, adding truck lanes, expanding rail yards, and fast-tracking customs technology. The trade has increased 10 per cent Y-o-y, and local revenue from Municipal taxes has crossed &nbsp;¥2 million.Huang Baoqiang, a managing director at a lumber mill in Russia, said they bought large quantities of lumber from Siberia and turned them into bed slats. The US Treasury Department has banned the use of Dollars, but they were able to pay with Rubles and Chinese renminbi through VTB bank. The bank has also faced sanctions from the US and the European Union.When the world is building walls, Manzhouli is building freight lanes. Critics argue that China have positioned itself to sustain Russia in its war with Ukraine. While doing this, it's not only reaping economic dividends but also expanding its geopolitical influence.&nbsp;

This border town in China is sustaining the economy of Russia amid global sanctions. Nearly 6 per cent of Russia’s economy now comes from exports to China, a number equal to another sanctioned state, Iran.

Russia had been under the sanctions from the West as early as the 2010s, specifically after 2014, since the annexation of Crimea. But Chinese President Xi Jinping had been Russia's ally for a long time. On the windy plains of inner Mongolia, in the borders of Russia and China, a dusty town of just 200,000 people is playing an outsized role in the survival of a global pariah. Welcome to Manzhouli, a sleepless border town in China that has quietly transformed into the lifeline of the Russian Economy. Manzhouli, also known as the gateway to the east, is China's largest inland port with direct rail and road links to Russia via the Trans-Siberian and Chinese Eastern Railway. Nearly 60 per cent of all freight flown between the nations is handled by this town. With hundreds of trucks and railcars crossing the border regularly. After Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, it faced severe sanctions from Western nations. But China's staunch support of Russia's economy has helped them survive. Export to China accounts for nearly 6 per cent of the Russian economy. It started as a gateway for raw material; now it accounts for processing them as well. Russian timbers, methanol, rapeseed oil, and liquefied petroleum gas are now being refined in Manzhouli-based industrial hubs. These facilities give Russia a backdoor entry to the Western market. “The raw goods come in, we refine them here, and export them further,” said a local logistics manager quoted by The New York Times. “Everyone benefits. Especially the Russians.” Local authorities have heavily invested in the infrastructure, adding truck lanes, expanding rail yards, and fast-tracking customs technology. The trade has increased 10 per cent Y-o-y, and local revenue from Municipal taxes has crossed ¥2 million. Huang Baoqiang, a managing director at a lumber mill in Russia, said they bought large quantities of lumber from Siberia and turned them into bed slats. The US Treasury Department has banned the use of Dollars, but they were able to pay with Rubles and Chinese renminbi through VTB bank. The bank has also faced sanctions from the US and the European Union. When the world is building walls, Manzhouli is building freight lanes. Critics argue that China have positioned itself to sustain Russia in its war with Ukraine. While doing this, it's not only reaping economic dividends but also expanding its geopolitical influence.

This border town in China is sustaining the economy of Russia amid global sanctions. Nearly 6 per cent of Russia’s economy now comes from exports to China, a number equal to another sanctioned state, Iran.

Struck with Western sanction: This border town in China is quietly fueling Russia's war economy

Russian authorities have reportedly been involving children in the design and testing of drones for the country’s war efforts in Ukraine. This development began nationwide with video games competitions through which the most skilled participants are being recruited by defence companies, an investigator has found.&nbsp;The findings were revealed by the exiled Russian news outlet the Insider, highlighting the growing extent of the Russian government's alleged involvement in dragging the country's youth into the war against Ukraine, with the blurring of the lines between “patriotic” and militarised education that often turn out to be direct participation.&nbsp;“The kids are actively involved in modelling components of systems for various drones,” one of the teenagers told. “I know of several people at least who were modelling UAV [unmanned aerial vehicle] components for major enterprises,” the teenager added, as reported by the Guardian.&nbsp;Vladimir Putin has directed Russia to bolster drone production, which has become a significant part of the war for Russia against Ukraine. As drone battles from both ends constantly change with discoveries of new technologies, with evading electronic jamming systems, Russia is looking for the smartest tech prodigies with the help of youth.<h3>When does the initiative start?</h3>The initiative, launched in 2022, began with a video game called Berloga, in which “intelligent bears” have to defend themselves from bees, sometimes using drones, the investigation revealed. The game, which is played by hundreds of thousands of young Russians, can lead to extra credit in exams at the end of high school for those who succeed in the game.&nbsp;The top-performing participants advance to a higher-level context, including one name as "Big Challenges". This aims to identify talented school students for recruitment by Russian companies, many of whom face international sanctions due to their alleged involvement in the defence sector of the country.&nbsp;Three teenage finalists from the competition working on drone technology were interviewed, who described how the programme operates and revealed that while they were fully aware of the military application of certain projects, but were urged to hide it.&nbsp;“We were forbidden to say that it was needed for the war, and we invented civilian applications. It’s a children’s program … A project must always have a dual purpose, especially when you’re a school student. It’s an unwritten rule I’ve observed at every competition,” said one.&nbsp;Along with small drones, children are also involved in the production of larger drones. Children also revealed working inside military facilities: a 13-year-old explained how he had trained soldiers in drone operations inside a state facility in 2022.&nbsp;

The findings have revealed the growing extent of the alleged involvement of the Russian government in dragging the youth of the country into the war against Ukraine.

Russian authorities have reportedly been involving children in the design and testing of drones for the country’s war efforts in Ukraine. This development began nationwide with video games competitions through which the most skilled participants are being recruited by defence companies, an investigator has found. The findings were revealed by the exiled Russian news outlet the Insider, highlighting the growing extent of the Russian government's alleged involvement in dragging the country's youth into the war against Ukraine, with the blurring of the lines between “patriotic” and militarised education that often turn out to be direct participation. “The kids are actively involved in modelling components of systems for various drones,” one of the teenagers told. “I know of several people at least who were modelling UAV [unmanned aerial vehicle] components for major enterprises,” the teenager added, as reported by the Guardian. Vladimir Putin has directed Russia to bolster drone production, which has become a significant part of the war for Russia against Ukraine. As drone battles from both ends constantly change with discoveries of new technologies, with evading electronic jamming systems, Russia is looking for the smartest tech prodigies with the help of youth. When does the initiative start? The initiative, launched in 2022, began with a video game called Berloga, in which “intelligent bears” have to defend themselves from bees, sometimes using drones, the investigation revealed. The game, which is played by hundreds of thousands of young Russians, can lead to extra credit in exams at the end of high school for those who succeed in the game. The top-performing participants advance to a higher-level context, including one name as "Big Challenges". This aims to identify talented school students for recruitment by Russian companies, many of whom face international sanctions due to their alleged involvement in the defence sector of the country. Three teenage finalists from the competition working on drone technology were interviewed, who described how the programme operates and revealed that while they were fully aware of the military application of certain projects, but were urged to hide it. “We were forbidden to say that it was needed for the war, and we invented civilian applications. It’s a children’s program … A project must always have a dual purpose, especially when you’re a school student. It’s an unwritten rule I’ve observed at every competition,” said one. Along with small drones, children are also involved in the production of larger drones. Children also revealed working inside military facilities: a 13-year-old explained how he had trained soldiers in drone operations inside a state facility in 2022.

The findings have revealed the growing extent of the involvement of the Russian government in dragging the youth of the country into the war against Ukraine.

Kids building war machines? Russia defence firms recruiting children for drone design, reveals report

A freelance journalist working for Russian state newspaper Izvestia has been killed in a drone strike near the Russian-controlled city of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine, according to the publication.
Izvestia claimed that the attack targeted a civilian vehicle on a highway within a Russian-occupied area. Their correspondent Alexander Martemyanov and five other media workers were injured in the incident.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-implements-first-us-congestion-charge-scheme-amid-controversy-8593247">New York becomes first US city to implement congestion charge scheme despite Trump's objection</a>
&ldquo;The Ukrainian army launched a drone strike on a civilian car carrying Izvestia's freelance correspondent Alexander Martemyanov,&rdquo; the outlet wrote on its Telegram channel. They added that the car was &ldquo;far from the line of contact.&rdquo;&nbsp;
The news outlet, which has been blocked by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-diplomats-visit-syria-for-talks-with-de-facto-leader-sharaa-8588093" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">European Union</a> for allegedly spreading Russian propaganda, said that the vehicle was returning from reporting on shelling in the Russian-held city of Gorlivka when it was hit.
Russian officials have accused Ukraine&rsquo;s military of deliberately targeting Martemyanov, describing the attack as an &ldquo;inhuman terrorist act.&rdquo; In a statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said, &ldquo;Without a doubt, media representatives were deliberately chosen as targets for a deadly attack. This is also evidenced by the testimonies of those who survived the attack.&rdquo;
The ministry further called the killing &ldquo;yet another brutal crime in a series of bloody atrocities committed by the Zelensky regime, which openly resorts to terrorist methods to eliminate its ideological opponents.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-vows-retaliation-after-ukraine-fires-us-supplied-atacms-missiles-8591479">Russia vows 'retaliation' after Ukraine fires US-supplied ATACMS missiles</a>
<h2>'All guilty will be brought to inevitable punishment': Russia</h2>
Moscow has called on international organisations, including UNESCO, to respond to the incident. &ldquo;We demand that yet another brutal murder of a Russian war correspondent receive an appropriate response from Audrey Azoulay (UNESCO head), as prescribed by her mandate,&rdquo; said Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry.&nbsp;
Zakharova criticised <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-unesco-listed-rubab-faces-extinction-amid-talibans-music-ban-in-afghanistan-8575450">UNESCO</a> for failing to acknowledge Russian journalists who have been killed. She claimed that a recent draft report by the organisation&rsquo;s Director-General on journalist safety lacked any mention of Russian media reporters who have died. She accused UNESCO of being complicit in &ldquo;terrorist attacks&rdquo; through &ldquo;political distortions and statistical manipulations.&rdquo;
&ldquo;All those guilty of the crime against Russian journalists will be identified and brought to inevitable punishment,&rdquo; Zakharova added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: “The Ukrainian army launched a drone strike on a civilian car carrying Izvestia's freelance correspondent Alexander Martemyanov,” the outlet wrote on its Telegram channel. 

A freelance journalist working for Russian state newspaper Izvestia has been killed in a drone strike near the Russian-controlled city of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine, according to the publication. Izvestia claimed that the attack targeted a civilian vehicle on a highway within a Russian-occupied area. Their correspondent Alexander Martemyanov and five other media workers were injured in the incident. Also read: New York becomes first US city to implement congestion charge scheme despite Trump's objection “The Ukrainian army launched a drone strike on a civilian car carrying Izvestia's freelance correspondent Alexander Martemyanov,” the outlet wrote on its Telegram channel. They added that the car was “far from the line of contact.” The news outlet, which has been blocked by the European Union for allegedly spreading Russian propaganda, said that the vehicle was returning from reporting on shelling in the Russian-held city of Gorlivka when it was hit. Russian officials have accused Ukraine’s military of deliberately targeting Martemyanov, describing the attack as an “inhuman terrorist act.” In a statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said, “Without a doubt, media representatives were deliberately chosen as targets for a deadly attack. This is also evidenced by the testimonies of those who survived the attack.” The ministry further called the killing “yet another brutal crime in a series of bloody atrocities committed by the Zelensky regime, which openly resorts to terrorist methods to eliminate its ideological opponents.” Also read: Russia vows 'retaliation' after Ukraine fires US-supplied ATACMS missiles 'All guilty will be brought to inevitable punishment': Russia Moscow has called on international organisations, including UNESCO, to respond to the incident. “We demand that yet another brutal murder of a Russian war correspondent receive an appropriate response from Audrey Azoulay (UNESCO head), as prescribed by her mandate,” said Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry. Zakharova criticised UNESCO for failing to acknowledge Russian journalists who have been killed. She claimed that a recent draft report by the organisation’s Director-General on journalist safety lacked any mention of Russian media reporters who have died. She accused UNESCO of being complicit in “terrorist attacks” through “political distortions and statistical manipulations.” “All those guilty of the crime against Russian journalists will be identified and brought to inevitable punishment,” Zakharova added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Inhuman terrorist act': Moscow accuses Ukraine of 'deliberately' killing Russian journalist in drone strike

The breakaway Moldovan region of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-urges-citizens-including-annexed-ukrainians-to-vote-as-moldova-accuses-russia-of-breaking-laws-699893">Transdniestria</a> cut heating and hot water supplies to households on Wednesday after Russia stopped supplying gas via Ukraine.
"There is no heating or hot water," an employee of local energy company Tirasteploenergo told Reuters by phone from Tiraspol, the main city of the breakaway territory. She said she did not know how long the situation would last.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-gazprom-to-cut-gas-supplies-to-moldova-from-jan-1-8574242">Russia's Gazprom to cut gas supplies to Moldova from Jan 1</a>
<h2>Transit deal between Russia and Ukraine expires&nbsp;</h2>
Transdniestria is a pro-Russian entity that split from the rest of Moldova after the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-it-may-consider-own-options-if-us-resumes-nuclear-testing-under-trumps-watch-8570852">Soviet Union</a> collapsed in 1991. It was receiving Russian gas via Ukraine, but that supply route was halted on Wednesday with the expiry of a transit deal between the two warring countries.
A statement on the energy company's website said the heating cuts took effect at 7 a.m. local time on Wednesday (Jan 1), but some facilities, such as hospitals, were exempt.
It urged residents to dress warmly, gather family members together in a single room, hang blankets or thick curtains over windows and balcony doors, and use electric heaters.
"It is forbidden to use gas or electric stoves to heat the apartment&mdash;this can lead to tragedy," the company said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-kyiv-halts-russian-gas-flow-to-europe-calls-it-historic-8583058">Ukraine war: Kyiv halts Russian gas flow to Europe, calls it 'historic'</a>
Transdniestria has existed generally peacefully side by side with Moldova since a brief post-Soviet war in 1992. Some 1,500 Russian troops are stationed there.
The local parliament last month sent an appeal to the Kremlin and the Russian parliament to reach a new agreement with Ukraine to enable gas supplies to continue. Moscow said at the time it would protect its citizens and soldiers in Transdniestria.
Until the expiry of its gas transit deal with Ukraine, Russia was supplying Moldova with about 2 billion cubic metres of gas per year, pumped via Transdniestria.
Moldova accuses Russia of exploiting its energy dependence on Moscow in order to destabilise the country, something Moscow denies.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

World: Transdniestria, a pro-Russian entity that split from Moldova after the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, was receiving Russian gas via Ukraine, but that supply route was halted on Wednesday.

The breakaway Moldovan region of Transdniestria cut heating and hot water supplies to households on Wednesday after Russia stopped supplying gas via Ukraine. "There is no heating or hot water," an employee of local energy company Tirasteploenergo told Reuters by phone from Tiraspol, the main city of the breakaway territory. She said she did not know how long the situation would last. Also read: Russia's Gazprom to cut gas supplies to Moldova from Jan 1 Transit deal between Russia and Ukraine expires Transdniestria is a pro-Russian entity that split from the rest of Moldova after the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991. It was receiving Russian gas via Ukraine, but that supply route was halted on Wednesday with the expiry of a transit deal between the two warring countries. A statement on the energy company's website said the heating cuts took effect at 7 a.m. local time on Wednesday (Jan 1), but some facilities, such as hospitals, were exempt. It urged residents to dress warmly, gather family members together in a single room, hang blankets or thick curtains over windows and balcony doors, and use electric heaters. "It is forbidden to use gas or electric stoves to heat the apartment—this can lead to tragedy," the company said. Also read: Ukraine war: Kyiv halts Russian gas flow to Europe, calls it 'historic' Transdniestria has existed generally peacefully side by side with Moldova since a brief post-Soviet war in 1992. Some 1,500 Russian troops are stationed there. The local parliament last month sent an appeal to the Kremlin and the Russian parliament to reach a new agreement with Ukraine to enable gas supplies to continue. Moscow said at the time it would protect its citizens and soldiers in Transdniestria. Until the expiry of its gas transit deal with Ukraine, Russia was supplying Moldova with about 2 billion cubic metres of gas per year, pumped via Transdniestria. Moldova accuses Russia of exploiting its energy dependence on Moscow in order to destabilise the country, something Moscow denies. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Moldova's breakaway region Transdniestria faces heating cuts as Russia halts gas supply

Kazan, Russia
Ukraine on Saturday (Dec 21) launched a drone attack deep inside Russia, hitting several residential high-rise buildings in the city of Kazan.
According to media reports, the strike was carried out using Kamikaze drones.
A video of the strike, purportedly shot by eyewitnesses, shows the drones hitting a residential building head on, in what some users have labelled as a '9/11-style' attack.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russia-launches-barrage-of-missiles-on-kyiv-killing-1-and-cutting-heating-to-numerous-buildings-785532">Russia launches barrage of missiles on Kyiv, damaging six diplomatic missions</a>
Watch the dramatic video here. Viewer discretion is advised.
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? SHOCKING VIDEO: Drone SLAMS into Kazan Skyline! ???
Watch as this rogue drone CRASHES into a high-rise in Kazan, Russia! No reports on injuries yet, but the footage is INTENSE! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KazanDroneStrike?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KazanDroneStrike</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BreakingNews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BreakingNews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://t.co/gkBBXPBfAP">pic.twitter.com/gkBBXPBfAP</a>
— WarNewsDaily??? (@XNews24_7) <a href="https://twitter.com/XNews24_7/status/1870368058969350381?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Emergency services deployed</h2>
According to a TASS report, emergency services were dispatched to the sites of the attack.
As of now, there are no reports of casualties from the attack. Reports circulating on Telegram suggest that residents were being evacuated from the impacted buildings.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-mass-rape-youll-die-alone-like-a-dog-daughter-caroline-tells-convicted-rapist-dominique-pelicot-785505">France mass rape: 'You’ll die alone like a dog,' daughter Caroline tells convicted rapist Dominique Pélicot</a>
This attack comes hours after the Russian Defence Ministry on its Telegram channel reported that its air defences shot down one "Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle over the Republic of Tatarstan," whose capital is Kazan. 
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Videos of the strike purportedly show the drones hitting a residential building head on, in what some users have labelled a '9/11-style attack'



Kazan, Russia Ukraine on Saturday (Dec 21) launched a drone attack deep inside Russia, hitting several residential high-rise buildings in the city of Kazan. According to media reports, the strike was carried out using Kamikaze drones. A video of the strike, purportedly shot by eyewitnesses, shows the drones hitting a residential building head on, in what some users have labelled as a '9/11-style' attack. Also read | Russia launches barrage of missiles on Kyiv, damaging six diplomatic missions Watch the dramatic video here. Viewer discretion is advised. ? SHOCKING VIDEO: Drone SLAMS into Kazan Skyline! ??? Watch as this rogue drone CRASHES into a high-rise in Kazan, Russia! No reports on injuries yet, but the footage is INTENSE! #KazanDroneStrike #BreakingNews #Russia #Ukraine pic.twitter.com/gkBBXPBfAP — WarNewsDaily??? (@XNews24_7) December 21, 2024 × Emergency services deployed According to a TASS report, emergency services were dispatched to the sites of the attack. As of now, there are no reports of casualties from the attack. Reports circulating on Telegram suggest that residents were being evacuated from the impacted buildings. Also read | France mass rape: 'You’ll die alone like a dog,' daughter Caroline tells convicted rapist Dominique Pélicot This attack comes hours after the Russian Defence Ministry on its Telegram channel reported that its air defences shot down one "Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle over the Republic of Tatarstan," whose capital is Kazan. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Video: Ukraine hits Russian residential high-rises in Kazan. Dramatic visuals show '9/11-style attack'

Ukraine on Saturday (Dec 21) launched a drone attack deep inside&nbsp;Russia, hitting several residential high-rise buildings in the city of Kazan.

According to media reports, the strike was carried out using Kamikaze drones.

A video of the strike,&nbsp;purportedly shot by eyewitnesses, shows the drones hitting a residential building head on, in what some users have labelled as a '9/11-style' attack.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russia-launches-barrage-of-missiles-on-kyiv-killing-1-and-cutting-heating-to-numerous-buildings-785532">Russia launches barrage of missiles on Kyiv, damaging six diplomatic missions</a>

Watch the dramatic video here. Viewer discretion is advised.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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🚨 SHOCKING VIDEO: Drone SLAMS into Kazan Skyline! 🚁🔥👇 
Watch as this rogue drone CRASHES into a high-rise in Kazan, Russia! No reports on injuries yet, but the footage is INTENSE! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KazanDroneStrike?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KazanDroneStrike</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BreakingNews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BreakingNews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://t.co/gkBBXPBfAP">pic.twitter.com/gkBBXPBfAP</a>
— WarNewsDaily🪖🚨🪖 (@XNews24_7) <a href="https://twitter.com/XNews24_7/status/1870368058969350381?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Emergency services deployed</h2>

According to a TASS report, emergency services were dispatched to the sites of the attack.

As of now, there are no reports of casualties from the attack. Reports circulating on Telegram suggest that residents were being evacuated from the impacted buildings.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-mass-rape-youll-die-alone-like-a-dog-daughter-caroline-tells-convicted-rapist-dominique-pelicot-785505">France mass rape: 'You’ll die alone like a dog,' daughter Caroline tells convicted rapist Dominique Pélicot</a>

This attack comes hours after the Russian Defence Ministry on its Telegram channel reported that its air defences shot down one "Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle over the Republic of Tatarstan," whose capital is Kazan.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos&nbsp;and&nbsp;videos.

Ukraine on Saturday (Dec 21) launched a drone attack deep inside Russia, hitting several residential high-rise buildings in the city of Kazan. According to media reports, the strike was carried out using Kamikaze drones.

Ukraine on Saturday (Dec 21) launched a drone attack deep inside Russia, hitting several residential high-rise buildings in the city of Kazan. According to media reports, the strike was carried out using Kamikaze drones. A video of the strike, purportedly shot by eyewitnesses, shows the drones hitting a residential building head on, in what some users have labelled as a '9/11-style' attack. Also read | Russia launches barrage of missiles on Kyiv, damaging six diplomatic missions Watch the dramatic video here. Viewer discretion is advised. 🚨 SHOCKING VIDEO: Drone SLAMS into Kazan Skyline! 🚁🔥👇 Watch as this rogue drone CRASHES into a high-rise in Kazan, Russia! No reports on injuries yet, but the footage is INTENSE! #KazanDroneStrike #BreakingNews #Russia #Ukraine pic.twitter.com/gkBBXPBfAP — WarNewsDaily🪖🚨🪖 (@XNews24_7) December 21, 2024 × Emergency services deployed According to a TASS report, emergency services were dispatched to the sites of the attack. As of now, there are no reports of casualties from the attack. Reports circulating on Telegram suggest that residents were being evacuated from the impacted buildings. Also read | France mass rape: 'You’ll die alone like a dog,' daughter Caroline tells convicted rapist Dominique Pélicot This attack comes hours after the Russian Defence Ministry on its Telegram channel reported that its air defences shot down one "Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle over the Republic of Tatarstan," whose capital is Kazan. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Dec 19) voiced his support for French President Emmanuel Macron's idea to potentially deploy Western troops in Ukraine if and when Ukraine-Russia war ends. However, he said that the initiative needed to be fleshed out.

"If we are talking about a contingent, we need to be specific — how many, what they will do if there is aggression from Russia," he said. "The main thing is that this is not some artificial story, we need effective mechanisms."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;at a press conference commented that he should've launched a full scale Russian invasion of Ukraine earlier.

"Knowing what's happening now, back in 2022, I would've thought the decision ought to have been taken earlier. We ought to have started getting ready for those developments and the special military operation before."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/create-more-passionate-content-putin-pitches-for-alternatives-to-porn-785435">‘Create more passionate content,’ Putin pitches for alternatives to porn</a>

This comes as Kyiv's European allies as per reports are seriously considering the deployment of their troops in the event of a deal with Russia to stop Ukraine war happens.

<h2>EU leaders discuss potential deployment</h2>

Originally, when Macron said he can't rule out Western troop deployment, EU leaders had responded with a resounding "no". However, now they are willing to consider it.

As per a Washington Post report, European leaders on Wednesday (Dec 18) discussed the prospect of boots on the ground when NATO Chief Mark Rutte hosted European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Brussels.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-putin-praises-jaishankars-brics-isnt-anti-western-stance-calls-modi-a-warm-ally-785405">Putin praises Jaishankar’s ‘BRICS isn’t anti-Western’ stance; calls Modi a ‘warm ally’</a>

The idea is being floated as world leaders brace for US President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House. Citing officials in the know, the Post reported that Trump is interested in the idea too, but it remains unclear if the incoming US administration will support such an arrangement.

Camille Grand, a former NATO assistant secretary general, in a statement said that "At the moment, it’s really about trying to think out loud what could be more acceptable for the Ukrainians".

According to Grand, a post-war troop deployment deal could also help make clear to Russia that "they shouldn’t restart the conflict, and to the Americans that the Europeans have skin in this game and that we mean it".

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Dec 19) voiced his support for French President Emmanuel Macron's idea to potentially deploy Western troops in Ukraine if and when Ukraine-Russia war ends.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Dec 19) voiced his support for French President Emmanuel Macron's idea to potentially deploy Western troops in Ukraine if and when Ukraine-Russia war ends. However, he said that the initiative needed to be fleshed out. "If we are talking about a contingent, we need to be specific — how many, what they will do if there is aggression from Russia," he said. "The main thing is that this is not some artificial story, we need effective mechanisms." Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin at a press conference commented that he should've launched a full scale Russian invasion of Ukraine earlier. "Knowing what's happening now, back in 2022, I would've thought the decision ought to have been taken earlier. We ought to have started getting ready for those developments and the special military operation before." Also read | ‘Create more passionate content,’ Putin pitches for alternatives to porn This comes as Kyiv's European allies as per reports are seriously considering the deployment of their troops in the event of a deal with Russia to stop Ukraine war happens. EU leaders discuss potential deployment Originally, when Macron said he can't rule out Western troop deployment, EU leaders had responded with a resounding "no". However, now they are willing to consider it. As per a Washington Post report, European leaders on Wednesday (Dec 18) discussed the prospect of boots on the ground when NATO Chief Mark Rutte hosted European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Brussels. Also read | Putin praises Jaishankar’s ‘BRICS isn’t anti-Western’ stance; calls Modi a ‘warm ally’ The idea is being floated as world leaders brace for US President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House. Citing officials in the know, the Post reported that Trump is interested in the idea too, but it remains unclear if the incoming US administration will support such an arrangement. Camille Grand, a former NATO assistant secretary general, in a statement said that "At the moment, it’s really about trying to think out loud what could be more acceptable for the Ukrainians". According to Grand, a post-war troop deployment deal could also help make clear to Russia that "they shouldn’t restart the conflict, and to the Americans that the Europeans have skin in this game and that we mean it". (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky voices support for Western troop deployment in Ukraine, Putin says should've invaded earlier

Brussels, Belgium
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Dec 19) voiced his support for French President Emmanuel Macron's idea to potentially deploy Western troops in Ukraine if and when Ukraine-Russia war ends. However, he said that the initiative needed to be fleshed out.
"If we are talking about a contingent, we need to be specific — how many, what they will do if there is aggression from Russia," he said. "The main thing is that this is not some artificial story, we need effective mechanisms." 
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin at a press conference commented that he should've launched a full scale Russian invasion of Ukraine earlier.
"Knowing what's happening now, back in 2022, I would've thought the decision ought to have been taken earlier. We ought to have started getting ready for those developments and the special military operation before."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/create-more-passionate-content-putin-pitches-for-alternatives-to-porn-785435">‘Create more passionate content,’ Putin pitches for alternatives to porn</a>
This comes as Kyiv's European allies as per reports are seriously considering the deployment of their troops in the event of a deal with Russia to stop Ukraine war happens.
<h2>EU leaders discuss potential deployment</h2>
Originally, when Macron said he can't rule out Western troop deployment, EU leaders had responded with a resounding "no". However, now they are willing to consider it.
As per a Washington Post report, European leaders on Wednesday (Dec 18) discussed the prospect of boots on the ground when NATO Chief Mark Rutte hosted European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Brussels.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-putin-praises-jaishankars-brics-isnt-anti-western-stance-calls-modi-a-warm-ally-785405">Putin praises Jaishankar’s ‘BRICS isn’t anti-Western’ stance; calls Modi a ‘warm ally’</a>
The idea is being floated as world leaders brace for US President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House. Citing officials in the know, the Post reported that Trump is interested in the idea too, but it remains unclear if the incoming US administration will support such an arrangement.
Camille Grand, a former NATO assistant secretary general, in a statement said that "At the moment, it’s really about trying to think out loud what could be more acceptable for the Ukrainians".
According to Grand, a post-war troop deployment deal could also help make clear to Russia that "they shouldn’t restart the conflict, and to the Americans that the Europeans have skin in this game and that we mean it".
(With inputs from agencies)

"If we are talking about a contingent, we need to be specific — how many, what they will do if there is aggression from Russia," he said adding, "The main thing is that this is not some artificial story, we need effective mechanisms"



Brussels, Belgium Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Dec 19) voiced his support for French President Emmanuel Macron's idea to potentially deploy Western troops in Ukraine if and when Ukraine-Russia war ends. However, he said that the initiative needed to be fleshed out. "If we are talking about a contingent, we need to be specific — how many, what they will do if there is aggression from Russia," he said. "The main thing is that this is not some artificial story, we need effective mechanisms." Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin at a press conference commented that he should've launched a full scale Russian invasion of Ukraine earlier. "Knowing what's happening now, back in 2022, I would've thought the decision ought to have been taken earlier. We ought to have started getting ready for those developments and the special military operation before." Also read | ‘Create more passionate content,’ Putin pitches for alternatives to porn This comes as Kyiv's European allies as per reports are seriously considering the deployment of their troops in the event of a deal with Russia to stop Ukraine war happens. EU leaders discuss potential deployment Originally, when Macron said he can't rule out Western troop deployment, EU leaders had responded with a resounding "no". However, now they are willing to consider it. As per a Washington Post report, European leaders on Wednesday (Dec 18) discussed the prospect of boots on the ground when NATO Chief Mark Rutte hosted European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Brussels. Also read | Putin praises Jaishankar’s ‘BRICS isn’t anti-Western’ stance; calls Modi a ‘warm ally’ The idea is being floated as world leaders brace for US President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House. Citing officials in the know, the Post reported that Trump is interested in the idea too, but it remains unclear if the incoming US administration will support such an arrangement. Camille Grand, a former NATO assistant secretary general, in a statement said that "At the moment, it’s really about trying to think out loud what could be more acceptable for the Ukrainians". According to Grand, a post-war troop deployment deal could also help make clear to Russia that "they shouldn’t restart the conflict, and to the Americans that the Europeans have skin in this game and that we mean it". (With inputs from agencies)

Moscow, Russia
<meta content="uuidFsNYcJcEOTQU" name="uuid"/>
Russian President Vladimir Putin held his annual end-of-year press conference in Moscow on Thursday (December 19). Known for covering various issues during these marathon events, Putin spoke on the economy, and the war in Ukraine.
Talking about US-president elect Donald Trump, Putin said that he hasn't spoken to him in over four years and is not sure when he will meet or speak with him next. "I am ready to meet him if he wants it," he said.
Addressing a question about Syria's former president, Bashar al-Assad, Putin said that he hasn't "seen President Assad yet" - but plans to do so. "And I will have a conversation with him. We're adults. We understand," Putin said.
<h2>Russia’s economy remains a focus</h2>
Putin began by discussing the state of the Russian economy, saying, "Everything stands and falls with the economy." Despite inflation running at 9.3%, he claimed the Russian economy is performing well, pointing to growth in wages and real disposable income.  
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-targets-pakistans-ballistic-missile-programme-slaps-sanctions-on-four-entities-785188">US targets Pakistan’s missile programme, slaps sanctions on four entities</a>
However, he acknowledged challenges, with inflation being a major concern. "Inflation, however, is a worrying sign," he said, though he described the situation overall as "stable." He also mentioned that the unemployment rate was record-low at 2.3%.
When asked how the economy continues to function amid challenges, Putin said, "When everything is stable, we are bored, but when something major happens, when bullets are flying around — we are scared."
<h2>Putin on the war in Ukraine: “Victory is nearer”</h2>
On the war in Ukraine, referred to by the Kremlin as a "special military operation", Putin was asked if victory was closer. In response, he had two individuals hold up a banner behind him, reportedly signed by a Russian marine brigade.
He said that the situation in Ukraine is "changing drastically" and claimed Russian forces are "regaining territory" daily. "Warfare is complicated," he said, "but we are getting closer to solving our primary tasks of the special operation."
Putin said he could not predict when his forces would regain full control of the western Kursk region, the area where Ukraine launched a shock offensive in August. "We will absolutely kick them out. Absolutely. It can't be any other way. But the question of a specific date, I'm sorry, I cannot say right now," he said.
Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine's Zelensky Held Talks With NATO Chief
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Putin also addressed questions from the audience regarding the rebuilding of areas affected by fighting. Viewers asked when the region (Kursk) would be "liberated," when residents could return, and whether infrastructure and homes would be reconstructed.
"It makes no military sense for Ukraine to enter the Kursk region," he said, adding, "For sure, we will get rid of them." However, he avoided giving a specific timeline, adding that announcing a date could pressure troops to take unnecessary risks.
He told the audience that once the situation stabilises, all infrastructure, including schools, kindergartens, and roads, would be rebuilt. "There is no shadow of a doubt about it," Putin said, adding that citizens who lost homes during the fighting would receive compensation.
(With inputs from agencies)
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Putin said that the situation in Ukraine is "changing drastically" and claimed Russian forces are "regaining territory" daily. "Warfare is complicated," he said, "but we are getting closer to solving our primary tasks of the special operation."



Moscow, Russia Russian President Vladimir Putin held his annual end-of-year press conference in Moscow on Thursday (December 19). Known for covering various issues during these marathon events, Putin spoke on the economy, and the war in Ukraine. Talking about US-president elect Donald Trump, Putin said that he hasn't spoken to him in over four years and is not sure when he will meet or speak with him next. "I am ready to meet him if he wants it," he said. Addressing a question about Syria's former president, Bashar al-Assad, Putin said that he hasn't "seen President Assad yet" - but plans to do so. "And I will have a conversation with him. We're adults. We understand," Putin said. Russia’s economy remains a focus Putin began by discussing the state of the Russian economy, saying, "Everything stands and falls with the economy." Despite inflation running at 9.3%, he claimed the Russian economy is performing well, pointing to growth in wages and real disposable income. Also read: US targets Pakistan’s missile programme, slaps sanctions on four entities However, he acknowledged challenges, with inflation being a major concern. "Inflation, however, is a worrying sign," he said, though he described the situation overall as "stable." He also mentioned that the unemployment rate was record-low at 2.3%. When asked how the economy continues to function amid challenges, Putin said, "When everything is stable, we are bored, but when something major happens, when bullets are flying around — we are scared." Putin on the war in Ukraine: “Victory is nearer” On the war in Ukraine, referred to by the Kremlin as a "special military operation", Putin was asked if victory was closer. In response, he had two individuals hold up a banner behind him, reportedly signed by a Russian marine brigade. He said that the situation in Ukraine is "changing drastically" and claimed Russian forces are "regaining territory" daily. "Warfare is complicated," he said, "but we are getting closer to solving our primary tasks of the special operation." Putin said he could not predict when his forces would regain full control of the western Kursk region, the area where Ukraine launched a shock offensive in August. "We will absolutely kick them out. Absolutely. It can't be any other way. But the question of a specific date, I'm sorry, I cannot say right now," he said. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine's Zelensky Held Talks With NATO Chief Putin also addressed questions from the audience regarding the rebuilding of areas affected by fighting. Viewers asked when the region (Kursk) would be "liberated," when residents could return, and whether infrastructure and homes would be reconstructed. "It makes no military sense for Ukraine to enter the Kursk region," he said, adding, "For sure, we will get rid of them." However, he avoided giving a specific timeline, adding that announcing a date could pressure troops to take unnecessary risks. He told the audience that once the situation stabilises, all infrastructure, including schools, kindergartens, and roads, would be rebuilt. "There is no shadow of a doubt about it," Putin said, adding that citizens who lost homes during the fighting would receive compensation. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Russian President Putin says he 'will have a conversation' with ousted Syrian President Assad soon

Russian President Vladimir Putin held his annual end-of-year press conference in Moscow on Thursday (December 19). Known for covering various issues during these marathon events, Putin spoke on the economy, and the war in Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin held his annual end-of-year press conference in Moscow on Thursday (December 19). Known for covering various issues during these marathon events, Putin spoke on the economy, and the war in Ukraine. Talking about US-president elect Donald Trump, Putin said that he hasn't spoken to him in over four years and is not sure when he will meet or speak with him next. "I am ready to meet him if he wants it," he said. Addressing a question about Syria's former president, Bashar al-Assad, Putin said that he hasn't "seen President Assad yet" - but plans to do so. "And I will have a conversation with him. We're adults. We understand," Putin said. Russia’s economy remains a focus Putin began by discussing the state of the Russian economy, saying, "Everything stands and falls with the economy." Despite inflation running at 9.3%, he claimed the Russian economy is performing well, pointing to growth in wages and real disposable income. Also read: US targets Pakistan’s missile programme, slaps sanctions on four entities However, he acknowledged challenges, with inflation being a major concern. "Inflation, however, is a worrying sign," he said, though he described the situation overall as "stable." He also mentioned that the unemployment rate was record-low at 2.3%. When asked how the economy continues to function amid challenges, Putin said, "When everything is stable, we are bored, but when something major happens, when bullets are flying around — we are scared." Putin on the war in Ukraine: “Victory is nearer” On the war in Ukraine, referred to by the Kremlin as a "special military operation", Putin was asked if victory was closer. In response, he had two individuals hold up a banner behind him, reportedly signed by a Russian marine brigade. He said that the situation in Ukraine is "changing drastically" and claimed Russian forces are "regaining territory" daily. "Warfare is complicated," he said, "but we are getting closer to solving our primary tasks of the special operation." Putin said he could not predict when his forces would regain full control of the western Kursk region, the area where Ukraine launched a shock offensive in August. "We will absolutely kick them out. Absolutely. It can't be any other way. But the question of a specific date, I'm sorry, I cannot say right now," he said. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine's Zelensky Held Talks With NATO Chief Putin also addressed questions from the audience regarding the rebuilding of areas affected by fighting. Viewers asked when the region (Kursk) would be "liberated," when residents could return, and whether infrastructure and homes would be reconstructed. "It makes no military sense for Ukraine to enter the Kursk region," he said, adding, "For sure, we will get rid of them." However, he avoided giving a specific timeline, adding that announcing a date could pressure troops to take unnecessary risks. He told the audience that once the situation stabilises, all infrastructure, including schools, kindergartens, and roads, would be rebuilt. "There is no shadow of a doubt about it," Putin said, adding that citizens who lost homes during the fighting would receive compensation. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

The United States on Monday (Dec 2) announced a fresh military aid package worth $725 million for Ukraine, amid fears that the incoming president Donald Trump will cut off all support to Kyiv. The new military aid includes a second tranche of landmines and anti-air and anti-armour weapons.

<h2>What does the aid package include?</h2>

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a statement said that the package was part of the Joe Biden administration's efforts "to ensure Ukraine has the capabilities it needs to defend itself against Russian aggression."

AFP news aegncy, citing Blinken reported that the military aid package includes anti-personnel landmines, ammunition for HIMARS precision rocket launchers, Stinger missiles, counter-drone systems, anti-armour weapons and artillery ammunition.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-biden-slams-hamass-campaign-of-cruelty-expresses-outrage-over-us-israeli-soldiers-death-780979">Israel-Hamas war: Biden slams 'Hamas's campaign of cruelty,' expresses outrage over US-Israeli soldier's death</a>

This is the second shipment of landmines Washington is sending to Kyiv. Last month, in a major policy shift, the US announced its first shipment of landmines.

"Between now and mid-January, we will deliver hundreds of thousands of additional artillery rounds, thousands of additional rockets, and other critical capabilities to help Ukraine defend its freedom and independence," said National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in a statement.

<h2>The future of US aid to Ukraine</h2>

With less than two months until Trump's inauguration, the Biden administration is racing to ensure Ukraine receives the necessary support to fend off Russian advances. Trump has repeatedly criticised US assistance to Ukraine, claiming he could broker a ceasefire quickly, which has led to concerns in Kyiv and Europe about the future of American aid.

Pentagon spokesperson Major General Pat Ryder confirmed that all remaining US funding for Ukraine would be used before Biden’s term ends.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-chancellor-scholz-makes-surprise-visit-to-war-torn-ukraine-pledges-aid-780903">German chancellor Scholz makes surprise visit to war-torn Ukraine, pledges aid</a>

"At the president's direction, we will spend every dollar that Congress has appropriated for Ukraine and to replenish our stockpiles," he told journalists.

Previously, he revealed that $6.8 billion was still available from US stockpiles and an additional $2.2 billion is earmarked for procurement from defence contractors.

Since Russia launched its special military operation against Ukraine in February 2022, the US has emerged as one of Kyiv's key military backers, committing over $60 billion in weapons, ammunition and other security aid.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Monday (Dec 2) announced a fresh military aid package worth $725 million for Ukraine, amid fears that the incoming president Donald Trump will cut off all support to Kyiv.

The United States on Monday (Dec 2) announced a fresh military aid package worth $725 million for Ukraine, amid fears that the incoming president Donald Trump will cut off all support to Kyiv. The new military aid includes a second tranche of landmines and anti-air and anti-armour weapons. What does the aid package include? US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a statement said that the package was part of the Joe Biden administration's efforts "to ensure Ukraine has the capabilities it needs to defend itself against Russian aggression." AFP news aegncy, citing Blinken reported that the military aid package includes anti-personnel landmines, ammunition for HIMARS precision rocket launchers, Stinger missiles, counter-drone systems, anti-armour weapons and artillery ammunition. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Biden slams 'Hamas's campaign of cruelty,' expresses outrage over US-Israeli soldier's death This is the second shipment of landmines Washington is sending to Kyiv. Last month, in a major policy shift, the US announced its first shipment of landmines. "Between now and mid-January, we will deliver hundreds of thousands of additional artillery rounds, thousands of additional rockets, and other critical capabilities to help Ukraine defend its freedom and independence," said National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in a statement. The future of US aid to Ukraine With less than two months until Trump's inauguration, the Biden administration is racing to ensure Ukraine receives the necessary support to fend off Russian advances. Trump has repeatedly criticised US assistance to Ukraine, claiming he could broker a ceasefire quickly, which has led to concerns in Kyiv and Europe about the future of American aid. Pentagon spokesperson Major General Pat Ryder confirmed that all remaining US funding for Ukraine would be used before Biden’s term ends. Also read | German chancellor Scholz makes surprise visit to war-torn Ukraine, pledges aid "At the president's direction, we will spend every dollar that Congress has appropriated for Ukraine and to replenish our stockpiles," he told journalists. Previously, he revealed that $6.8 billion was still available from US stockpiles and an additional $2.2 billion is earmarked for procurement from defence contractors. Since Russia launched its special military operation against Ukraine in February 2022, the US has emerged as one of Kyiv's key military backers, committing over $60 billion in weapons, ammunition and other security aid. (With inputs from agencies)

US announces $725mn in military aid for Ukraine as Biden extends last-ditch support before Trump inauguration

Ukraine has already lost 40 per cent of the territory it occupied in Russia's Kursk Oblast in a major offensive in August this year, news agency Reuters reported citing Kyiv military sources on Saturday (Nov 23). Owing to a massive wave of Russia's counter-offensive, Kyiv has faced a major setback in the region.&nbsp;

Russia is now said to have prepared about 60,000 men to take Kursk back in its entirety, reportedly involving troops from North Korea.

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"At most, we controlled about 1,376 square kilometres (531 square miles), now of course this territory is smaller. The enemy is increasing its counterattacks," Reuters quoted the source as saying.&nbsp;"Now we control approximately 800 square kilometres (309 square miles). We will hold this territory for as long as is militarily appropriate."

The Kursk offensive by Ukraine was the first territorial incursion Russia witnessed since the Second World War. The biggest objective of the offensive was to thwart Russian advances in eastern Ukraine and force Russia to pull troops back to focus on defending its own territories.

However, despite Ukrainian forces managing to occupy a considerable chunk of Russian territory in Kursk, Moscow's&nbsp;troops continued making advances in Ukraine.

<h2>Russia's rapid advances in eastern Ukraine</h2>

Reuters quoted the source as saying that the Ukrainian position in&nbsp;the Kurakhove region was the most volatile, where Russian forces were making advances of&nbsp;200-300 meters (yards) a day and had managed to break through in some areas with armoured vehicles backed by anti-drone defences.

The source said that there are over half a million Russian troops currently fighting in Ukraine, with Russia expected to reinforce them with almost 200,000 additional troops in the coming days. Russia has not confirmed these numbers so far.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Ukraine has already lost 40 per cent of the territory it occupied in Russia's Kursk Oblast in a major offensive in August this year, news agency Reuters reported citing Kyiv military sources on Saturday (Nov 23).

Ukraine has already lost 40 per cent of the territory it occupied in Russia's Kursk Oblast in a major offensive in August this year, news agency Reuters reported citing Kyiv military sources on Saturday (Nov 23). Owing to a massive wave of Russia's counter-offensive, Kyiv has faced a major setback in the region. Russia is now said to have prepared about 60,000 men to take Kursk back in its entirety, reportedly involving troops from North Korea. Also read: ‘There is no countermeasure,’ Putin hails Russia’s Oreshnik missile; orders serial production "At most, we controlled about 1,376 square kilometres (531 square miles), now of course this territory is smaller. The enemy is increasing its counterattacks," Reuters quoted the source as saying. "Now we control approximately 800 square kilometres (309 square miles). We will hold this territory for as long as is militarily appropriate." The Kursk offensive by Ukraine was the first territorial incursion Russia witnessed since the Second World War. The biggest objective of the offensive was to thwart Russian advances in eastern Ukraine and force Russia to pull troops back to focus on defending its own territories. However, despite Ukrainian forces managing to occupy a considerable chunk of Russian territory in Kursk, Moscow's troops continued making advances in Ukraine. Russia's rapid advances in eastern Ukraine Reuters quoted the source as saying that the Ukrainian position in the Kurakhove region was the most volatile, where Russian forces were making advances of 200-300 meters (yards) a day and had managed to break through in some areas with armoured vehicles backed by anti-drone defences. The source said that there are over half a million Russian troops currently fighting in Ukraine, with Russia expected to reinforce them with almost 200,000 additional troops in the coming days. Russia has not confirmed these numbers so far. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

'Enemy is increasing counterattacks,' Ukraine loses 40% of Russia's Kursk: Report

A Western official on Thursday (Nov 21) denied a claim by Ukraine that Russia had launched an&nbsp;intercontinental ballistic missile from its southern Astrakhan region, saying it was a ballistic missile.

“It was instead a ballistic missile, which was aimed at Dnipro, in Ukraine’s southeast," the western official was quoted as saying by ABC News.

The reported strike&nbsp;comes&nbsp;in a possible retaliation to Ukraine's use of US and British missiles to strike targets inside Russia this week. Moscow had, for months, warned that the use of American missiles to strike inside its borders would be seen as a major escalation.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-us-embassy-in-kyiv-shuts-down-amid-looming-airstrike-threat-777618">Russia-Ukraine war: US embassy in Kyiv shuts down amid looming airstrike threat</a>

<h2>What did the Russian ICBM target?</h2>

As per a statement by the Ukraine Air Force, the latest Russian attack targeted enterprises and critical infrastructure in Ukraine's central-eastern city of Dnipro.&nbsp;

"In particular, an intercontinental ballistic missile was launched from the Astrakhan region of the Russian Federation," the statement said, without mentioning what kind of ICMB was used in the attack.

The air force said that it had downed six Russian Kh-101 cruise missiles, but did not elaborate on whether the ICMB was downed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/an-analysis-of-putins-potential-choices-will-russia-resort-to-nuke-weapons-777647">Will Russia resort&nbsp;to using Nuclear weapons?&nbsp;An analysis of Putin's potential choices</a>

A rehabilitation centre, homes, and an industrial enterprise were damaged by Russian airstrikes in Dnipro, according to the regional head.

"Two people were wounded — a 57-year-old man was treated on the scene and a 42-year-old woman was hospitalised," said the official, Sergiy Lysak, as reported by AFP.

A rehab centre for disabled people was damaged in the attack, but no injuries were reported. Nine garages and an industrial facility were also damaged, said Lysak. He added that strikes on Kryvyi Rih, west of Dnipro, injured two other people, who were transported to a hospital, an administrative building was destroyed, and two residential buildings were damaged.

<h2>What are ICMBs?</h2>

Intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) are missiles that can travel a long range of over 5,500 km (3,418 miles), which means they can strike targets virtually anywhere in the world. These missiles can carry conventional weapons as well as nuclear warheads.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Western official on Thursday (Nov 21) denied a claim by Ukraine that Russia had launched an intercontinental ballistic missile from its southern Astrakhan region, saying it was a ballistic missile.

A Western official on Thursday (Nov 21) denied a claim by Ukraine that Russia had launched an intercontinental ballistic missile from its southern Astrakhan region, saying it was a ballistic missile. “It was instead a ballistic missile, which was aimed at Dnipro, in Ukraine’s southeast," the western official was quoted as saying by ABC News. The reported strike comes in a possible retaliation to Ukraine's use of US and British missiles to strike targets inside Russia this week. Moscow had, for months, warned that the use of American missiles to strike inside its borders would be seen as a major escalation. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: US embassy in Kyiv shuts down amid looming airstrike threat What did the Russian ICBM target? As per a statement by the Ukraine Air Force, the latest Russian attack targeted enterprises and critical infrastructure in Ukraine's central-eastern city of Dnipro. "In particular, an intercontinental ballistic missile was launched from the Astrakhan region of the Russian Federation," the statement said, without mentioning what kind of ICMB was used in the attack. The air force said that it had downed six Russian Kh-101 cruise missiles, but did not elaborate on whether the ICMB was downed. Also read | Will Russia resort to using Nuclear weapons? An analysis of Putin's potential choices A rehabilitation centre, homes, and an industrial enterprise were damaged by Russian airstrikes in Dnipro, according to the regional head. "Two people were wounded — a 57-year-old man was treated on the scene and a 42-year-old woman was hospitalised," said the official, Sergiy Lysak, as reported by AFP. A rehab centre for disabled people was damaged in the attack, but no injuries were reported. Nine garages and an industrial facility were also damaged, said Lysak. He added that strikes on Kryvyi Rih, west of Dnipro, injured two other people, who were transported to a hospital, an administrative building was destroyed, and two residential buildings were damaged. What are ICMBs? Intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) are missiles that can travel a long range of over 5,500 km (3,418 miles), which means they can strike targets virtually anywhere in the world. These missiles can carry conventional weapons as well as nuclear warheads. (With inputs from agencies)

'It was a ballistic missile,' Western official rejects Ukraine's ICBM claim against Russia

US President Joe Biden has reportedly authorised the transfer of anti-personnel landmines to Ukraine. This comes after Biden, recently, allowed Ukraine to use long-range US missiles for strikes within Russian territory.

<h2>'Nonpersistent' landmines</h2>

As per a Washington Post report citing unnamed US officials, the newly authorised land mines are described as "nonpersistent," which means they are designed to self-destruct or deactivate within a set timeframe to minimise risks to civilians.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-amid-shifting-political-winds-zelensky-warns-ukraine-will-lose-without-us-aid-777517">Russia-Ukraine war:&nbsp;Amid shifting political winds Zelensky warns Ukraine 'will lose' without US aid</a>

Ukrainian officials have reportedly pledged to restrict their use to non-populated areas, focusing on the embattled eastern front where Russian forces have gained significant ground. &nbsp;

"Russia is attacking Ukrainian lines in the east with waves of troops, regardless of the casualties that they're suffering," one of the officials told WP adding "So the Ukrainians are obviously taking losses, and more towns and cities are at risk of falling. These mines were made specifically to combat exactly this."

"When they're used in concert with the other munitions that we already are providing Ukraine, the intent is that they will contribute to a more effective defense," they explained.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-putin-approves-nuclear-strikes-on-non-nuclear-states-777334" target="_blank">Russia-Ukraine war: Putin signs decree allowing nuclear strikes on non-nuclear states</a>

<h2>Ethical and diplomatic backlash &nbsp;</h2>

The decision has reignited global debate over the use of anti-personnel landmines. While neither the United States nor Russia is one of the 164 signatories of the Ottawa Convention, aka the Mine Ban Treaty, that prohibits the deployment and transfer of antipersonnel mines, Ukraine is.

Human Rights Watch denounced the decision, calling it "shocking and devastating," and Deputy Director Mary Wareham cautioned that even "nonpersistent" mines endanger civilians, hinder cleanup, and cannot always be safely deactivated.

Furthermore,&nbsp;the deployment of US-supplied anti-personnel mines could influence other nations to reconsider their stances on the Ottawa Convention. Earlier this year, the Baltic States like Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia debated leaving the treaty to strengthen their defences against Russian aggression, but ultimately opted to reinforce antitank measures instead.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden has reportedly authorised the transfer of anti-personnel landmines to Ukraine. This comes after Biden, recently, allowed Ukraine to use long-range US missiles for strikes within Russian territory.

US President Joe Biden has reportedly authorised the transfer of anti-personnel landmines to Ukraine. This comes after Biden, recently, allowed Ukraine to use long-range US missiles for strikes within Russian territory. 'Nonpersistent' landmines As per a Washington Post report citing unnamed US officials, the newly authorised land mines are described as "nonpersistent," which means they are designed to self-destruct or deactivate within a set timeframe to minimise risks to civilians. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Amid shifting political winds Zelensky warns Ukraine 'will lose' without US aid Ukrainian officials have reportedly pledged to restrict their use to non-populated areas, focusing on the embattled eastern front where Russian forces have gained significant ground. "Russia is attacking Ukrainian lines in the east with waves of troops, regardless of the casualties that they're suffering," one of the officials told WP adding "So the Ukrainians are obviously taking losses, and more towns and cities are at risk of falling. These mines were made specifically to combat exactly this." "When they're used in concert with the other munitions that we already are providing Ukraine, the intent is that they will contribute to a more effective defense," they explained. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Putin signs decree allowing nuclear strikes on non-nuclear states Ethical and diplomatic backlash The decision has reignited global debate over the use of anti-personnel landmines. While neither the United States nor Russia is one of the 164 signatories of the Ottawa Convention, aka the Mine Ban Treaty, that prohibits the deployment and transfer of antipersonnel mines, Ukraine is. Human Rights Watch denounced the decision, calling it "shocking and devastating," and Deputy Director Mary Wareham cautioned that even "nonpersistent" mines endanger civilians, hinder cleanup, and cannot always be safely deactivated. Furthermore, the deployment of US-supplied anti-personnel mines could influence other nations to reconsider their stances on the Ottawa Convention. Earlier this year, the Baltic States like Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia debated leaving the treaty to strengthen their defences against Russian aggression, but ultimately opted to reinforce antitank measures instead. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden approves anti-personnel land mines for Ukraine amid escalating conflict with Russia: Report

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Nov 19) signed a decree allowing Moscow to use nuclear weapons against a non-nuclear state, receiving backing from nuclear powers.

This contentious decree comes as the Russia-Ukraine conflict reaches the grim milestone of 1000 days of war and as the United States allows&nbsp;Kyiv to use long-range missiles to strike military targets inside Russia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-war-comes-sweden-finland-issue-survival-guides-as-threat-of-ww3-looms-777185">‘If War Comes’: Sweden, Finland issue survival guides as threat of WW3 looms</a>

<h2>Kremlin defends decision</h2>

In a statement, the Kremlin defended the decree, labelling it as "necessary".

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov in a statement&nbsp;said that Russia&nbsp;broadening its rules for the use of nuclear weapons was a "necessary" response to what the country considers&nbsp;Western threats to its security.

"It was necessary to bring our principles in line with the current situation," he told reporters shortly after the Russian President&nbsp;signed the decree easing the conditions under which Moscow would consider launching a nuclear attack.

He also warned&nbsp;that the use of western non-nuclear missiles by the Ukrainian armed forces against the Russian Federation under the new doctrine could lead to a nuclear response.

<h2>Zelensky asks allies to 'push harder'</h2>

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged Europe to "push Russia harder" as the Ukraine war marks its, 1000th day.&nbsp;

Vowing that Ukraine will never give in to Russia's aggression, Zelensky&nbsp;told a special session of the European Parliament "The more time he (Russian President Vladimir Putin) has, the worse the conditions become".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-amid-shifting-political-winds-zelensky-warns-ukraine-will-lose-without-us-aid-777517">Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky warns Ukraine 'will lose' without US aid</a>

Tuesday marks the 1,000 days since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began on 24 February 2022. Zelensky warned that Putin "[would] not stop on his own" and urged that Russia be pushed towards a "just peace".

He added that the deployment of North Korean troops was a significant sign that Russia wanted to escalate the conflict.&nbsp;

"While some European leaders think about some elections, or something like this, at Ukraine's expense, Putin is focused on winning this war," he warned.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Nov 19) signed a decree allowing Moscow to use nuclear weapons against a non-nuclear state, receiving backing from nuclear powers.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Nov 19) signed a decree allowing Moscow to use nuclear weapons against a non-nuclear state, receiving backing from nuclear powers. This contentious decree comes as the Russia-Ukraine conflict reaches the grim milestone of 1000 days of war and as the United States allows Kyiv to use long-range missiles to strike military targets inside Russia. Also read | ‘If War Comes’: Sweden, Finland issue survival guides as threat of WW3 looms Kremlin defends decision In a statement, the Kremlin defended the decree, labelling it as "necessary". Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov in a statement said that Russia broadening its rules for the use of nuclear weapons was a "necessary" response to what the country considers Western threats to its security. "It was necessary to bring our principles in line with the current situation," he told reporters shortly after the Russian President signed the decree easing the conditions under which Moscow would consider launching a nuclear attack. He also warned that the use of western non-nuclear missiles by the Ukrainian armed forces against the Russian Federation under the new doctrine could lead to a nuclear response. Zelensky asks allies to 'push harder' Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged Europe to "push Russia harder" as the Ukraine war marks its, 1000th day. Vowing that Ukraine will never give in to Russia's aggression, Zelensky told a special session of the European Parliament "The more time he (Russian President Vladimir Putin) has, the worse the conditions become". Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky warns Ukraine 'will lose' without US aid Tuesday marks the 1,000 days since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began on 24 February 2022. Zelensky warned that Putin "[would] not stop on his own" and urged that Russia be pushed towards a "just peace". He added that the deployment of North Korean troops was a significant sign that Russia wanted to escalate the conflict. "While some European leaders think about some elections, or something like this, at Ukraine's expense, Putin is focused on winning this war," he warned. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine war: Putin signs decree allowing nuke strikes on nuclear power backed states

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a stark warning: without continued US military aid, Ukraine's ability to withstand Russia's ongoing invasion is at grave risk. In an interview with Fox News on Tuesday (Nov 19), Zelensky admitted, "If they cut (the aid), we will — I think we will lose".&nbsp;

"We will fight. We have our production, but it's not enough to prevail. And I think it's not enough to survive," he added.&nbsp;

The President of the war-torn nation also highlighted the critical importance of US-Ukraine unity, describing it as the foundation of Ukraine's resilience.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-putin-approves-nuclear-strikes-on-non-nuclear-states-777334">Russia-Ukraine war: Putin signs decree allowing nuclear strikes on non-nuclear states</a>

Describing the "unity" between Ukraine and the United States as "most important," he once again praised Trump. Zelensky said that the incoming US president could influence Russian President Vladimir Putin "because he is much more stronger than Putin."

He said that the Russian president "can be willing and end this war, but it also depends on the United States of America much more. Putin is weaker than the United States of America."

Previously, he said that Russia's war against his country would "end sooner" once Donald Trump assumes office as the President of the United States.

<h2>US-Ukraine alliance faces uncertainty &nbsp;</h2>

Since the beginning of Russia's "special military operation" in February 2022, the US has been an important ally for Kyiv, with the current Biden administration channelling billions in military and humanitarian aid to bolster Ukraine's defences. However, the impending inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump has introduced an element of uncertainty into the mix.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-urges-allies-to-push-russia-harder-as-war-crosses-1000th-day-warns-putin-will-not-stop-on-his-own-777438">Zelensky urges allies to 'push Russia harder' as war crosses 1000th day, warns Putin will not stop on his own</a>

Trump has been vocal throughout his campaign and before about his scepticism of&nbsp;US funnelling billions into supporting Kyiv. The Republican leader has repeatedly referred to the assistance as a drain on American resources and has pledged to end the war swiftly—but has provided few details about his plan to do so. &nbsp;

The debate over US involvement in the Ukraine War has recently&nbsp;intensified with President Joe Biden's approval for Ukraine to use long-range US missiles for strikes within Russian territory. The move, while celebrated by Kyiv, has been criticised by Trump's allies, who accused the incumbent president of a dangerous escalation.

Meanwhile, after Biden's approval, Russia has&nbsp;upped the stakes by allowing the use of nuclear weapons against a non-nuclear state&nbsp;receiving backing from nuclear powers.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a stark warning: without continued US military aid, Ukraine's ability to withstand Russia's ongoing invasion is at grave risk.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a stark warning: without continued US military aid, Ukraine's ability to withstand Russia's ongoing invasion is at grave risk. In an interview with Fox News on Tuesday (Nov 19), Zelensky admitted, "If they cut (the aid), we will — I think we will lose". "We will fight. We have our production, but it's not enough to prevail. And I think it's not enough to survive," he added. The President of the war-torn nation also highlighted the critical importance of US-Ukraine unity, describing it as the foundation of Ukraine's resilience. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Putin signs decree allowing nuclear strikes on non-nuclear states Describing the "unity" between Ukraine and the United States as "most important," he once again praised Trump. Zelensky said that the incoming US president could influence Russian President Vladimir Putin "because he is much more stronger than Putin." He said that the Russian president "can be willing and end this war, but it also depends on the United States of America much more. Putin is weaker than the United States of America." Previously, he said that Russia's war against his country would "end sooner" once Donald Trump assumes office as the President of the United States. US-Ukraine alliance faces uncertainty Since the beginning of Russia's "special military operation" in February 2022, the US has been an important ally for Kyiv, with the current Biden administration channelling billions in military and humanitarian aid to bolster Ukraine's defences. However, the impending inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump has introduced an element of uncertainty into the mix. Also read | Zelensky urges allies to 'push Russia harder' as war crosses 1000th day, warns Putin will not stop on his own Trump has been vocal throughout his campaign and before about his scepticism of US funnelling billions into supporting Kyiv. The Republican leader has repeatedly referred to the assistance as a drain on American resources and has pledged to end the war swiftly—but has provided few details about his plan to do so. The debate over US involvement in the Ukraine War has recently intensified with President Joe Biden's approval for Ukraine to use long-range US missiles for strikes within Russian territory. The move, while celebrated by Kyiv, has been criticised by Trump's allies, who accused the incumbent president of a dangerous escalation. Meanwhile, after Biden's approval, Russia has upped the stakes by allowing the use of nuclear weapons against a non-nuclear state receiving backing from nuclear powers. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine war | Amid shifting political winds Zelensky warns Ukraine 'will lose' without US aid

Russia’s nuclear doctrine is a set of guidelines that the country follows regarding when and how it might use nuclear weapons. These rules help outline the circumstances under which Moscow would consider using its nuclear arsenal. The doctrine says Russia can use its large nuclear weapons stockpile if it faces any aggression that seriously threatens the country’s sovereignty or territorial integrity.&nbsp;

On November 19, a new open-ended guideline—a rule or guideline without a fixed end date or clear limitations on its scope—was introduced, following an update approved by President Vladimir Putin just two days after the United States declared it would ease restrictions on Ukraine’s use of long-range weapons. The earlier version of the doctrine set much stricter conditions for nuclear retaliation, allowing it only if Russia’s survival was at risk.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-approves-antipersonnel-land-mines-for-ukraine-amid-escalating-conflict-with-russia-report-777545">Biden approves anti-personnel land mines for Ukraine amid escalating conflict with Russia: Report</a>

The revision, clearly referring to Ukraine and its Western allies, stated that an attack using conventional missiles, drones, or aircraft by a non-nuclear country, backed by a nuclear-armed nation, could justify a nuclear response. The update also extends Russia’s nuclear protection to Belarus, meaning Belarus will now be defended under Russia’s nuclear policies.&nbsp;

For quite some time, hardliners in Moscow have been pushing President Putin to consider lowering the threshold for using nuclear weapons. Their argument is that Russia should respond more aggressively to the military and financial assistance Ukraine is receiving from the West. This support includes advanced weapons, such as Storm Shadow missiles from Britain and France, which Ukraine has used to strike important Russian targets, such as the Black Sea fleet’s headquarters in Crimea, an area Russia currently occupies.&nbsp;

The situation seemed to escalate when President Joe Biden, after months of hesitation, finally approved the use of American ATACMS missiles by Ukraine. These missiles allow Ukraine to target areas deep inside Russian territory. In response, Putin warned that this decision would mean NATO is essentially ‘at war’ with Russia.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-us-embassy-in-kyiv-shuts-down-amid-looming-airstrike-threat-777618">Russia-Ukraine war: US embassy in Kyiv shuts down amid looming airstrike threat</a>

After many months of warnings that were not backed up with real action, Russia’s new strategy could be seen as another empty threat by Western leaders. Over time, the West has pushed the limits set by Putin and found they could cross these ‘red lines’ without facing serious repercussions. This makes it seem Russia’s threats may not be as strong as they first appeared.&nbsp;

On the first day of the war, Putin warned that any interference would bring consequences “like nothing you’ve ever seen before”. However, since then, the West has provided Ukraine with over $100 billion in aid and significantly boosted its military support.&nbsp;

Despite this, the move marks a major change in Russia’s nuclear policy. It now leaves more room for interpretation when deciding what counts as a threat to the country’s ‘sovereignty or territorial integrity’. Putin did not see Ukraine’s attack on the Kursk region as a serious threat to Russia’s survival or his leadership. However, he seems to view the ATACMS missile strikes on Russian territory as a much bigger concern that could pose a significant risk to the country or his rule.&nbsp;

<h2>Higher Risk of Russia Using N-Weapons?&nbsp;</h2>

Russia has announced that it has moved some of its nuclear missiles to Belarus and strengthened its already large military forces in Kaliningrad, a small Russian region located between Poland and Lithuania in the Baltic area. In response, neighbouring Poland said it was ready to host NATO nuclear weapons. Putin also stated that Russia’s updated nuclear policy would now cover Belarus, its closest ally, under its nuclear protection.&nbsp;

Putin has claimed that Russia’s nuclear weapons are more advanced than those of the US and stressed that ‘weapons are made to be used’. Putin has also warned that, if NATO troops are sent to Ukraine, it could lead to a nuclear war. But, so far, this situation has not arisen.&nbsp;

In September, Russia’s nuclear forces faced a setback when an intercontinental ballistic missile, which Putin had once described as unstoppable, exploded in its silo during a test launch, creating a crater about 60 metres wide at the missile’s launch silo at the Plesetsk Cosmodrome in northern Russia. The RS-28 Sarmat, called Satan II in the West, was one of the ‘super-weapons’ Putin had introduced in 2018.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-amid-shifting-political-winds-zelensky-warns-ukraine-will-lose-without-us-aid-777517">Russia-Ukraine war | Amid shifting political winds Zelensky warns Ukraine 'will lose' without US aid</a>

Although President Biden had previously stated that Russia’s nuclear threats were serious, Putin’s repeated warnings without any follow-through have lessened the impact of his words. NATO has consistently stated that there is no evidence showing Russia is getting ready to use its nuclear weapons. Warnings of a nuclear war from Moscow officials, especially from Dmitry Medvedev—Russia’s former prime minister and president, now deputy head of the national security council—are mostly seen by the West as attempts to discourage NATO from supporting Ukraine, rather than actual serious threats.&nbsp;

Still, Washington remains cautious about the risk of escalation. In August, John Kirby, the White House National Security Adviser, reportedly said they were always concerned about the possibility that the conflict in Ukraine could escalate and spread across Europe.&nbsp;

In November, reports revealed that former British prime minister Liz Truss was deeply worried in October 2022 that Putin may launch a nuclear attack. In the final days of her time as prime minister, officials were even checking weather maps and preparing for potential radiation cases in the UK. One of the toughest challenges for Western governments is trying to figure out what Putin is thinking.&nbsp;

In recent years, talk about nuclear weapons has become so common in Russia that it may make it easier, mentally, for them to consider actually using them. There are also worries about Putin’s mental state. Gleb Pavlovsky, a former Kremlin adviser who passed away last year, said after the Ukraine war began that Putin’s mindset had worsened during his time in power. Pavlovsky said Putin was now “reacting to the pictures in his own head”.&nbsp;

<h2>Why Putin May Consider Using N-Weapons&nbsp;</h2>

Faced with the possibility of a long, drawn-out war, Putin, who has full control over Russia’s large stockpile of tactical nuclear weapons, may decide that only a powerful strike using the most dangerous weapon he has could prevent Russia from facing defeat and disgrace. Tactical nuclear weapons are smaller nuclear bombs designed for use on battlefields to target specific military objectives, rather than destroying large areas, such as cities, or causing widespread devastation.&nbsp;

In Putin’s view, a serious threat to his rule, rather than to Russia as a whole, could be enough for him to consider using nuclear weapons against Ukraine or the West. Putin will celebrate 25 years in power on New Year’s Eve, and his supporters have depicted him as the symbol of Russia, itself. According to media reports, Vyacheslav Volodin, speaker of the Russian parliament, went on record to say that, if Putin exists, Russia exists. No Putin, no Russia!&nbsp;

From a Western perspective, it would not make much sense for Russia to use nuclear weapons. Tactical nuclear weapons, which have a shorter range and less power, would cause massive destruction but would not necessarily give Putin a quick victory. Using strategic nuclear weapons, which can completely destroy entire cities, would almost definitely trigger a huge response from the West and could even lead to a Third World War.&nbsp;

Putin may not care about the lives of Ukrainian civilians, but would he really be willing to doom his own young children—whose existence was revealed this month—to spending years in a nuclear bunker deep in Siberia? For Putin, using nuclear weapons could be his way of challenging the West. His message would, possibly, be: “Because you keep supplying Kyiv with more advanced weapons to attack Russian forces, I have no other option.”&nbsp;

Leaked military documents obtained by the Financial Times in February showed Russia had prepared plans to use tactical nuclear weapons early in a conflict with a major power. This is part of a strategy aimed at creating fear and pressure. The documents described possible situations where Russia would use nuclear strikes in response to an invasion. They also mentioned other goals, such as preventing other countries from using force, stopping military conflicts from getting worse, and making Russia’s navy stronger.&nbsp;

The collection of 29 secret documents, created between 2008 and 2014, when Putin was either president or prime minister, is still believed to be relevant to Russia’s current military strategy. These files suggest a much lower threshold for using tactical nuclear weapons than Russian officials have publicly acknowledged.&nbsp;

<h2>What Prevents the Use of Tactical N-Weapons?&nbsp;</h2>

There are two main reasons: the first is China. President Xi has publicly declared and, possibly, privately warned Putin that nuclear weapons should never be used. China is a key strategic partner for Russia and their alliance has strengthened significantly since the start of the war in Ukraine. The Chinese leader has never criticized his Russian counterpart for the invasion of Ukraine. However, despite their growing partnership, China has not provided military assistance to Russia so far.&nbsp;

He is also working to present himself as a peacemaker, aiming to negotiate a solution that could end the war through diplomacy. This effort not only seeks to resolve the conflict, but also helps him enhance his image and influence on the international stage. Putin understands that, if he decides to launch a nuclear attack—even a small one—it could seriously harm, or even completely ruin, his partnership with China.&nbsp;

Interestingly, the secret documents mentioned earlier show that Moscow harbours a strong mistrust of China. They even outline possible scenarios where Russia may use nuclear weapons if China were to invade. Although the two countries have grown into strong allies since those plans were made, with China’s financial backing helping Russia cope with Western sanctions after the Ukraine war, Russia has still been strengthening its defences in the east.&nbsp;

In a military simulation, Russia planned how it might respond to a potential attack by China. In this scenario, Russia was referred to as the ‘Northern Federation’, while China was called ‘the South’. The exercise imagined a situation where China launched an invasion and prepared to send a second wave of troops. To stop this, Russia considered the use of a small, tactical nuclear strike.&nbsp;

It is important to note that this was purely a theoretical exercise and not an actual event. However, it highlights how nations, even allies, sometimes prepare for worst-case scenarios to safeguard their interests. The document states the commander-in-chief has ordered the use of nuclear weapons if the enemy sends in additional troops and ‘the South’ poses a serious threat of advancing further towards the main target.&nbsp;

The second reason is how the US and NATO may react. Putin may convince himself that using nuclear weapons in Ukraine will not trigger a nuclear or military response from the West. This is because Ukraine is not a NATO member and is not protected under Article 5 of NATO’s founding treaty, which guarantees mutual defence for its members. This means that, if any member of NATO is attacked, it is treated as an attack on the entire alliance.&nbsp;

The US has warned that, if Putin uses nuclear weapons in Ukraine, it would lead to ‘catastrophic consequences’ for Russia. The exact nature of these consequences has not been clearly explained. However, it raises the question of whether it could result in a direct conflict between NATO and Russia. Before considering the use of nuclear weapons, Putin must carefully think about this potential risk.&nbsp;

<h2>Has there been any change?&nbsp;</h2>

Easing restrictions on the use of ATACMS is the latest step in a series of increasing military support from Western countries. The weapons supplied by the US-led coalition of 50 countries have significantly boosted Ukraine’s military strength and firepower. American F-16 fighter jets are already in action, and Ukraine has used advanced American missiles to target Putin’s forces, including Russian troops gathered near border areas.&nbsp;

Donald Trump’s election in the US may have marked the end of the seemingly endless supply of weapons. He has promised to end the war within 24 hours of assuming office. Some believe he may pressure Zelensky into negotiations by threatening to stop all US aid. Trump has often criticized NATO, stating he would allow Russia to act freely against member-countries that fail to meet their spending commitments.&nbsp;

Last year, Putin took a significant step that seemed to be preparation for a possible nuclear attack by sending the first set of tactical nuclear systems to Belarus, a neighbouring country allied with Russia. This marked the first time since the Soviet Union’s collapse in 1991 that Moscow had stationed nuclear missiles outside its borders.&nbsp;

<h2>Could Russia Deploy N-Weapons in Space?&nbsp;</h2>

As attention moves away from the immediate threat of using nuclear weapons on the battlefield, there are rising concerns that Putin may already be thinking about placing a nuclear device in Earth’s orbit. Putin has a strong fascination with advanced weapons, which is clear from his open support for hypersonic missiles, as well as nuclear-powered cruise missiles and torpedoes that are said to have unlimited range.&nbsp;

Putting nuclear devices into orbit—in clear violation of the 1967 Outer Space Treaty which Russia has signed—possibly to target America’s satellite systems, would showcase Russia’s increasing military aggression and turn space into a new area of conflict. This would push the US to create and deploy new defence systems in space, further escalating the arms race between the major powers and making it even more dangerous.&nbsp;

Countries, such as Russia, China, India, North Korea and Iran, are investing heavily in space technology, particularly in weapons that can target satellites. This poses a serious risk to America’s global satellite communication network, which is essential for the US military’s navigation, precision attacks and overall command and control systems.&nbsp;

<h2>What Are Russia’s Current N-Capabilities?&nbsp;</h2>

Russia still has a powerful nuclear arsenal, even though it has signed several arms control treaties since the Cold War ended. The Federation of American Scientists says Russia’s N-weapons stockpile, the world’s largest, comprises 5,580 warheads. Some of these are tactical nuclear weapons meant for use on the battlefield, while others are built to wipe out entire cities.&nbsp;

In 2023, Putin announced that Russia would withdraw from its last nuclear arms control agreement with the US, the New Start treaty, which was the last arms control agreement between Moscow and Washington. It was designed to limit the number of long-range nuclear missiles, warheads and launch systems that both countries could have, aiming to reduce the risk of a nuclear arms race. Earlier, President Trump had withdrawn from a treaty on intermediate-range weapons, claiming Russia had violated its terms.&nbsp;

By stepping away from this agreement, Russia is no longer obligated to follow these restrictions. This decision could lead to an increase in nuclear weapons and heighten tensions between the two nations, raising concerns about global security and stability. The move marks a significant shift in efforts to control nuclear arms and maintain balance between the world’s two largest nuclear powers.&nbsp;

Putin’s decision to suspend Russia’s participation in the treaty does not mean Russia cannot rejoin it before it expires in 2026. However, the Kremlin has made it clear that it will not discuss a new nuclear agreement as long as NATO continues to supply weapons to Ukraine.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Russia’s nuclear doctrine is a set of guidelines that the country follows regarding when and how it might use nuclear weapons. These rules help outline the circumstances under which Moscow would consider using its nuclear arsenal.

Russia’s nuclear doctrine is a set of guidelines that the country follows regarding when and how it might use nuclear weapons. These rules help outline the circumstances under which Moscow would consider using its nuclear arsenal. The doctrine says Russia can use its large nuclear weapons stockpile if it faces any aggression that seriously threatens the country’s sovereignty or territorial integrity. On November 19, a new open-ended guideline—a rule or guideline without a fixed end date or clear limitations on its scope—was introduced, following an update approved by President Vladimir Putin just two days after the United States declared it would ease restrictions on Ukraine’s use of long-range weapons. The earlier version of the doctrine set much stricter conditions for nuclear retaliation, allowing it only if Russia’s survival was at risk. Also read | Biden approves anti-personnel land mines for Ukraine amid escalating conflict with Russia: Report The revision, clearly referring to Ukraine and its Western allies, stated that an attack using conventional missiles, drones, or aircraft by a non-nuclear country, backed by a nuclear-armed nation, could justify a nuclear response. The update also extends Russia’s nuclear protection to Belarus, meaning Belarus will now be defended under Russia’s nuclear policies. For quite some time, hardliners in Moscow have been pushing President Putin to consider lowering the threshold for using nuclear weapons. Their argument is that Russia should respond more aggressively to the military and financial assistance Ukraine is receiving from the West. This support includes advanced weapons, such as Storm Shadow missiles from Britain and France, which Ukraine has used to strike important Russian targets, such as the Black Sea fleet’s headquarters in Crimea, an area Russia currently occupies. The situation seemed to escalate when President Joe Biden, after months of hesitation, finally approved the use of American ATACMS missiles by Ukraine. These missiles allow Ukraine to target areas deep inside Russian territory. In response, Putin warned that this decision would mean NATO is essentially ‘at war’ with Russia. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: US embassy in Kyiv shuts down amid looming airstrike threat After many months of warnings that were not backed up with real action, Russia’s new strategy could be seen as another empty threat by Western leaders. Over time, the West has pushed the limits set by Putin and found they could cross these ‘red lines’ without facing serious repercussions. This makes it seem Russia’s threats may not be as strong as they first appeared. On the first day of the war, Putin warned that any interference would bring consequences “like nothing you’ve ever seen before”. However, since then, the West has provided Ukraine with over $100 billion in aid and significantly boosted its military support. Despite this, the move marks a major change in Russia’s nuclear policy. It now leaves more room for interpretation when deciding what counts as a threat to the country’s ‘sovereignty or territorial integrity’. Putin did not see Ukraine’s attack on the Kursk region as a serious threat to Russia’s survival or his leadership. However, he seems to view the ATACMS missile strikes on Russian territory as a much bigger concern that could pose a significant risk to the country or his rule. Higher Risk of Russia Using N-Weapons? Russia has announced that it has moved some of its nuclear missiles to Belarus and strengthened its already large military forces in Kaliningrad, a small Russian region located between Poland and Lithuania in the Baltic area. In response, neighbouring Poland said it was ready to host NATO nuclear weapons. Putin also stated that Russia’s updated nuclear policy would now cover Belarus, its closest ally, under its nuclear protection. Putin has claimed that Russia’s nuclear weapons are more advanced than those of the US and stressed that ‘weapons are made to be used’. Putin has also warned that, if NATO troops are sent to Ukraine, it could lead to a nuclear war. But, so far, this situation has not arisen. In September, Russia’s nuclear forces faced a setback when an intercontinental ballistic missile, which Putin had once described as unstoppable, exploded in its silo during a test launch, creating a crater about 60 metres wide at the missile’s launch silo at the Plesetsk Cosmodrome in northern Russia. The RS-28 Sarmat, called Satan II in the West, was one of the ‘super-weapons’ Putin had introduced in 2018. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war | Amid shifting political winds Zelensky warns Ukraine 'will lose' without US aid Although President Biden had previously stated that Russia’s nuclear threats were serious, Putin’s repeated warnings without any follow-through have lessened the impact of his words. NATO has consistently stated that there is no evidence showing Russia is getting ready to use its nuclear weapons. Warnings of a nuclear war from Moscow officials, especially from Dmitry Medvedev—Russia’s former prime minister and president, now deputy head of the national security council—are mostly seen by the West as attempts to discourage NATO from supporting Ukraine, rather than actual serious threats. Still, Washington remains cautious about the risk of escalation. In August, John Kirby, the White House National Security Adviser, reportedly said they were always concerned about the possibility that the conflict in Ukraine could escalate and spread across Europe. In November, reports revealed that former British prime minister Liz Truss was deeply worried in October 2022 that Putin may launch a nuclear attack. In the final days of her time as prime minister, officials were even checking weather maps and preparing for potential radiation cases in the UK. One of the toughest challenges for Western governments is trying to figure out what Putin is thinking. In recent years, talk about nuclear weapons has become so common in Russia that it may make it easier, mentally, for them to consider actually using them. There are also worries about Putin’s mental state. Gleb Pavlovsky, a former Kremlin adviser who passed away last year, said after the Ukraine war began that Putin’s mindset had worsened during his time in power. Pavlovsky said Putin was now “reacting to the pictures in his own head”. Why Putin May Consider Using N-Weapons Faced with the possibility of a long, drawn-out war, Putin, who has full control over Russia’s large stockpile of tactical nuclear weapons, may decide that only a powerful strike using the most dangerous weapon he has could prevent Russia from facing defeat and disgrace. Tactical nuclear weapons are smaller nuclear bombs designed for use on battlefields to target specific military objectives, rather than destroying large areas, such as cities, or causing widespread devastation. In Putin’s view, a serious threat to his rule, rather than to Russia as a whole, could be enough for him to consider using nuclear weapons against Ukraine or the West. Putin will celebrate 25 years in power on New Year’s Eve, and his supporters have depicted him as the symbol of Russia, itself. According to media reports, Vyacheslav Volodin, speaker of the Russian parliament, went on record to say that, if Putin exists, Russia exists. No Putin, no Russia! From a Western perspective, it would not make much sense for Russia to use nuclear weapons. Tactical nuclear weapons, which have a shorter range and less power, would cause massive destruction but would not necessarily give Putin a quick victory. Using strategic nuclear weapons, which can completely destroy entire cities, would almost definitely trigger a huge response from the West and could even lead to a Third World War. Putin may not care about the lives of Ukrainian civilians, but would he really be willing to doom his own young children—whose existence was revealed this month—to spending years in a nuclear bunker deep in Siberia? For Putin, using nuclear weapons could be his way of challenging the West. His message would, possibly, be: “Because you keep supplying Kyiv with more advanced weapons to attack Russian forces, I have no other option.” Leaked military documents obtained by the Financial Times in February showed Russia had prepared plans to use tactical nuclear weapons early in a conflict with a major power. This is part of a strategy aimed at creating fear and pressure. The documents described possible situations where Russia would use nuclear strikes in response to an invasion. They also mentioned other goals, such as preventing other countries from using force, stopping military conflicts from getting worse, and making Russia’s navy stronger. The collection of 29 secret documents, created between 2008 and 2014, when Putin was either president or prime minister, is still believed to be relevant to Russia’s current military strategy. These files suggest a much lower threshold for using tactical nuclear weapons than Russian officials have publicly acknowledged. What Prevents the Use of Tactical N-Weapons? There are two main reasons: the first is China. President Xi has publicly declared and, possibly, privately warned Putin that nuclear weapons should never be used. China is a key strategic partner for Russia and their alliance has strengthened significantly since the start of the war in Ukraine. The Chinese leader has never criticized his Russian counterpart for the invasion of Ukraine. However, despite their growing partnership, China has not provided military assistance to Russia so far. He is also working to present himself as a peacemaker, aiming to negotiate a solution that could end the war through diplomacy. This effort not only seeks to resolve the conflict, but also helps him enhance his image and influence on the international stage. Putin understands that, if he decides to launch a nuclear attack—even a small one—it could seriously harm, or even completely ruin, his partnership with China. Interestingly, the secret documents mentioned earlier show that Moscow harbours a strong mistrust of China. They even outline possible scenarios where Russia may use nuclear weapons if China were to invade. Although the two countries have grown into strong allies since those plans were made, with China’s financial backing helping Russia cope with Western sanctions after the Ukraine war, Russia has still been strengthening its defences in the east. In a military simulation, Russia planned how it might respond to a potential attack by China. In this scenario, Russia was referred to as the ‘Northern Federation’, while China was called ‘the South’. The exercise imagined a situation where China launched an invasion and prepared to send a second wave of troops. To stop this, Russia considered the use of a small, tactical nuclear strike. It is important to note that this was purely a theoretical exercise and not an actual event. However, it highlights how nations, even allies, sometimes prepare for worst-case scenarios to safeguard their interests. The document states the commander-in-chief has ordered the use of nuclear weapons if the enemy sends in additional troops and ‘the South’ poses a serious threat of advancing further towards the main target. The second reason is how the US and NATO may react. Putin may convince himself that using nuclear weapons in Ukraine will not trigger a nuclear or military response from the West. This is because Ukraine is not a NATO member and is not protected under Article 5 of NATO’s founding treaty, which guarantees mutual defence for its members. This means that, if any member of NATO is attacked, it is treated as an attack on the entire alliance. The US has warned that, if Putin uses nuclear weapons in Ukraine, it would lead to ‘catastrophic consequences’ for Russia. The exact nature of these consequences has not been clearly explained. However, it raises the question of whether it could result in a direct conflict between NATO and Russia. Before considering the use of nuclear weapons, Putin must carefully think about this potential risk. Has there been any change? Easing restrictions on the use of ATACMS is the latest step in a series of increasing military support from Western countries. The weapons supplied by the US-led coalition of 50 countries have significantly boosted Ukraine’s military strength and firepower. American F-16 fighter jets are already in action, and Ukraine has used advanced American missiles to target Putin’s forces, including Russian troops gathered near border areas. Donald Trump’s election in the US may have marked the end of the seemingly endless supply of weapons. He has promised to end the war within 24 hours of assuming office. Some believe he may pressure Zelensky into negotiations by threatening to stop all US aid. Trump has often criticized NATO, stating he would allow Russia to act freely against member-countries that fail to meet their spending commitments. Last year, Putin took a significant step that seemed to be preparation for a possible nuclear attack by sending the first set of tactical nuclear systems to Belarus, a neighbouring country allied with Russia. This marked the first time since the Soviet Union’s collapse in 1991 that Moscow had stationed nuclear missiles outside its borders. Could Russia Deploy N-Weapons in Space? As attention moves away from the immediate threat of using nuclear weapons on the battlefield, there are rising concerns that Putin may already be thinking about placing a nuclear device in Earth’s orbit. Putin has a strong fascination with advanced weapons, which is clear from his open support for hypersonic missiles, as well as nuclear-powered cruise missiles and torpedoes that are said to have unlimited range. Putting nuclear devices into orbit—in clear violation of the 1967 Outer Space Treaty which Russia has signed—possibly to target America’s satellite systems, would showcase Russia’s increasing military aggression and turn space into a new area of conflict. This would push the US to create and deploy new defence systems in space, further escalating the arms race between the major powers and making it even more dangerous. Countries, such as Russia, China, India, North Korea and Iran, are investing heavily in space technology, particularly in weapons that can target satellites. This poses a serious risk to America’s global satellite communication network, which is essential for the US military’s navigation, precision attacks and overall command and control systems. What Are Russia’s Current N-Capabilities? Russia still has a powerful nuclear arsenal, even though it has signed several arms control treaties since the Cold War ended. The Federation of American Scientists says Russia’s N-weapons stockpile, the world’s largest, comprises 5,580 warheads. Some of these are tactical nuclear weapons meant for use on the battlefield, while others are built to wipe out entire cities. In 2023, Putin announced that Russia would withdraw from its last nuclear arms control agreement with the US, the New Start treaty, which was the last arms control agreement between Moscow and Washington. It was designed to limit the number of long-range nuclear missiles, warheads and launch systems that both countries could have, aiming to reduce the risk of a nuclear arms race. Earlier, President Trump had withdrawn from a treaty on intermediate-range weapons, claiming Russia had violated its terms. By stepping away from this agreement, Russia is no longer obligated to follow these restrictions. This decision could lead to an increase in nuclear weapons and heighten tensions between the two nations, raising concerns about global security and stability. The move marks a significant shift in efforts to control nuclear arms and maintain balance between the world’s two largest nuclear powers. Putin’s decision to suspend Russia’s participation in the treaty does not mean Russia cannot rejoin it before it expires in 2026. However, the Kremlin has made it clear that it will not discuss a new nuclear agreement as long as NATO continues to supply weapons to Ukraine. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Will Russia resort to using Nuclear weapons? An analysis of Putin's potential choices

The US Embassy in Kyiv on Wednesday (Nov 20) announced its closure, citing intelligence about a significant and imminent airstrike. In a statement, the embassy instructed staff to shelter in place and urged US citizens to prepare for immediate action if air raid alarms sound.&nbsp;

"The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv has received specific information of a potential significant air attack on November 20," said the US&nbsp;Embassy in Kyiv on its website.

"Out of an abundance of caution, the embassy will be closed, and embassy employees are being instructed to shelter in place."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-approves-antipersonnel-land-mines-for-ukraine-amid-escalating-conflict-with-russia-report-777545">Biden approves anti-personnel land mines for Ukraine amid escalating conflict with Russia: Report</a>

"The US Embassy recommends US citizens be prepared to immediately shelter in the event an air alert is announced," it added.

This warning comes after Ukraine deployed US-supplied ATACMS missiles, targeting Russian territory. In an announcement that coincided with&nbsp;the 1000th day of the Ukraine war,&nbsp;Washington this week said it had cleared a long-standing Ukrainian request — for Ukraine to use ATACMS against military targets inside Russia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-amid-shifting-political-winds-zelensky-warns-ukraine-will-lose-without-us-aid-777517" target="_blank">Russia-Ukraine war:&nbsp;Amid shifting political winds Zelensky warns Ukraine 'will lose' without US aid</a>

<h2>Russia warns it will respond</h2>

After Ukraine fired longer-range US missiles — a first in the nearly three-year war&nbsp;—&nbsp;Russia on Tuesday (Nov 19) had warned&nbsp;that it would respond.

Speaking at a&nbsp;press conference at the G20 summit in Brazil,&nbsp;Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that Ukraine's strike on Russia's Bryansk region, which used ATACMS missiles (a reference to the US-supplied Army Tactical Missile System)&nbsp;showed Western countries wanted to "escalate" the conflict.

"We will be taking this as a qualitatively new phase of the Western war against Russia. And we will react accordingly," warned Lavrov.

Washington this week said it had cleared Ukraine to use ATACMS against military targets inside Russia -- a long-standing Ukrainian request.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US Embassy in Kyiv on Wednesday (Nov 20) announced its closure, citing intelligence about a significant and imminent airstrike. In a statement, the embassy instructed staff to shelter in place and urged US citizens to prepare for immediate action if air raid alarms sound.

The US Embassy in Kyiv on Wednesday (Nov 20) announced its closure, citing intelligence about a significant and imminent airstrike. In a statement, the embassy instructed staff to shelter in place and urged US citizens to prepare for immediate action if air raid alarms sound. "The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv has received specific information of a potential significant air attack on November 20," said the US Embassy in Kyiv on its website. "Out of an abundance of caution, the embassy will be closed, and embassy employees are being instructed to shelter in place." Also read | Biden approves anti-personnel land mines for Ukraine amid escalating conflict with Russia: Report "The US Embassy recommends US citizens be prepared to immediately shelter in the event an air alert is announced," it added. This warning comes after Ukraine deployed US-supplied ATACMS missiles, targeting Russian territory. In an announcement that coincided with the 1000th day of the Ukraine war, Washington this week said it had cleared a long-standing Ukrainian request — for Ukraine to use ATACMS against military targets inside Russia. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Amid shifting political winds Zelensky warns Ukraine 'will lose' without US aid Russia warns it will respond After Ukraine fired longer-range US missiles — a first in the nearly three-year war — Russia on Tuesday (Nov 19) had warned that it would respond. Speaking at a press conference at the G20 summit in Brazil, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that Ukraine's strike on Russia's Bryansk region, which used ATACMS missiles (a reference to the US-supplied Army Tactical Missile System) showed Western countries wanted to "escalate" the conflict. "We will be taking this as a qualitatively new phase of the Western war against Russia. And we will react accordingly," warned Lavrov. Washington this week said it had cleared Ukraine to use ATACMS against military targets inside Russia -- a long-standing Ukrainian request. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine war: US embassy in Kyiv shuts down amid looming airstrike threat

The war in Ukraine after 1000 days is edging ever closer to a potentially catastrophic escalation as recent decisions from both the United States and Russia highlight the increasing risks of a broader conflict. US&nbsp;President Joe Biden has reportedly approved the use of US-supplied long-range missiles to Ukraine, despite significant concerns that this could provoke a harsh reaction from Russia. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree updating Russia's nuclear doctrine, signalling a more aggressive posture in the event of a conventional attack by non-nuclear nation supported by nuclear country. Ukraine was quick to encash Biden’s nod by targeting the Bryans (Russia) by firing six ATACM missiles, Russia is yet to respond, which brings the war to a crucial moment that could reshape the course of international geopolitical tensions in the coming months.&nbsp;

<h2>Biden’s Decision: A Risky Gamble &nbsp;</h2>

President Biden’s authorisation to supply Ukraine with long-range missiles, such as the ATACMS, to target Russian infrastructure has sparked heated debates among military analysts. While the official word from the White House and Pentagon remains unconfirmed, U.S. media reports suggest that Biden has given the green light for these weapons to be used in the ongoing conflict. The logic being given is the involvement of North Korean troops to support Russia was an escalation, which demanded US to concede to Ukrainian demand of such permission to boost its firepower and sagging morale. It is believed that firing these weapons requires expertise and guidance system of USA, which Russians presume as direct involvement of NATO in kinetic, contact war demanding appropriate response.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-approves-antipersonnel-land-mines-for-ukraine-amid-escalating-conflict-with-russia-report-777545">Biden approves antipersonnel land mines for Ukraine amid escalating conflict with Russia: Report</a>

Some analysts highlighted the potential for this move to escalate the conflict, warning that "Biden has lost the election and has nothing more to lose from the decision, which only furthers the cause of fighting Russia till the last Ukrainian standing" to help out its deep state/arms lobby and hoping to save an embarrassment for Democrats if Ukrainian defences crumble before Trumps Presidency. With Ukraine’s use of these missiles to strike Russian territory now, a significant Russian military response can be expected, which can create conditions of involving the U.S. directly in hostilities with Russia. &nbsp;

Politically, domestically, Biden's decision could also be viewed as an effort to entangle future U.S. administration under President elect Donald Trump in war, derailing his election promise of ending it. Interestingly neither White House nor Pentagon, nor President Zelensky have openly declared the decision, perhaps to maintain deniability to tone down Russian retaliation.&nbsp;

Since Ukraine is likely to bear the brunt of any Russian retaliation resulting from such decisions, some NATO nations that support Ukraine believe they have little to lose militarily if Ukraine escalates its conflict with Russia as long as their soldiers are not engaged in combat and do not receive body bags. They believe that in order to keep Zelensky's defences from collapsing until early 2025 or to put him in a position where he can engage in meaningful discussions, it is crucial to provide him with continuous military and financial support as well as to raise his morale. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-putin-approves-nuclear-strikes-on-non-nuclear-states-777334" target="_blank">Russia-Ukraine war: Putin signs decree allowing nuclear strikes on non-nuclear states</a>

<h2>Miscalculations and Battlefield Realities&nbsp;</h2>

The Biden administration's decision to send long-range weapons to Ukraine seems to have been driven by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's persistent demands for more advanced weaponry to push back Russian forces, however, it might be a calculated risk/miscalculation on two counts depending on Russian response.&nbsp;

First, by supplying long-range missiles with potential NATO guidance, the U.S. is effectively defying President Putin’s warnings. Earlier in ongoing war there were occasions when Putin did not follow up his threats of escalation when battle tanks and F-16 aircrafts were supplied to Ukraine; hence, Biden’s advisers feel that Putin may not follow up with nuclear options or striking some NATO target. &nbsp;

Second, the use of long-range missiles may not be a game-changer on the battlefield. While these missiles could damage Russian infrastructure, they are unlikely to alter the fundamental dynamics of the war, where Russian forces have been making steady territorial gains in the east and south of Ukraine. The use of advanced weapons, while symbolically important for Ukraine, may not be enough to reverse Russia's momentum or lead to a decisive shift in the conflict's trajectory; hence, may not provoke a violent response of the magnitude that NATO can’t handle. Ukraine is short of trained manpower to hold on to its frontline and standoff strike weapons can’t compensate for this weakness. &nbsp;

<h2>Putin’s Nuclear Doctrine: A Dangerous New Path&nbsp;</h2>

As tensions rise, President Putin has also taken steps to reinforce Russia's military posture. In a move that signals an increasing willingness to use nuclear weapons in response to conventional aggression, Putin signed a decree updating Russia's nuclear doctrine. The decree includes several key provisions that could fundamentally alter the strategic calculus in the region.&nbsp;

Under the new doctrine, nuclear deterrence is explicitly aimed not only at individual adversary states but also at military coalitions—especially those that possess nuclear weapons. Crucially, the doctrine now considers the participation of nuclear states in supporting a non-nuclear state's aggression against Russia as grounds for considering the conflict a "joint attack." This update marks a significant shift in Russia's stance, emphasizing that any attack on Russia by a non-nuclear state—if supported by a nuclear power—could trigger a nuclear response.&nbsp;

Furthermore, the updated doctrine asserts that nuclear deterrence will be in effect at all times: in peacetime, during periods of immediate threat, and in wartime, right up until the potential use of nuclear weapons. These revisions suggest that Putin's government is willing to escalate the conflict further, with nuclear retaliation now seen as a legitimate response to conventional attacks supported by nuclear powers, such as NATO. Maintaining a strong, battle-ready nuclear arsenal has been a part of Russian strategy and it has invested heavily in it. &nbsp;

<h2>The Impending Escalation&nbsp;</h2>

The risk of escalation is now clearer than ever. In the coming months, both Russia and Ukraine are likely to continue jockeying for advantage before the new year. Ukrainian forces are focused on resisting further Russian territorial advances, particularly in areas like Kursk and Donbas, where Russia has made notable gains. On the other hand, Russia is aiming to solidify its control over critical areas and create conditions that make Ukraine's NATO membership virtually impossible.&nbsp;

Russia continues to ramp up its offensive, launching missile and drone barrages targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure, cracking Ukrainian defences in intense attrition warfare. Ukraine is boosting its firepower by using U.S.-supplied long-range missiles, the most recent incident saw Ukraine firing six ATACMS missiles at the Russian Bryansk region. While five of the missiles were intercepted by Russia’s advanced S-400 and Pantsir air-defence systems, one missile was damaged and its fragments caused a fire at a military facility. This attack, while not decisive, underscores the growing risks of a broader conflict as both sides trade blows on the battlefield. &nbsp;

<h2>NATO’s Strategic Blind Spot?&nbsp;</h2>

The broader question remains: Has NATO truly thought through the long-term implications of its support for Ukraine? Apparently the alliance may not have adequately considered the ultimate goals of the conflict, particularly in terms of conflict termination and avoiding direct confrontation with Russia. The prospect of a prolonged, protracted war could endanger Europe’s stability and security in ways that have not been fully accounted for.&nbsp;

For Russia, the objectives are relatively clearer: solidifying territorial gains in eastern Ukraine, securing the Donbass region, and preventing Ukraine's NATO accession. For the West, the stakes are higher, as NATO’s involvement risks a direct clash with Russia. As both sides continue to escalate, the international community must be prepared for the possibility of even intensified war—and the potential for a nuclear confrontation that could impact the world in a catastrophic manner, that no one would like imagine.&nbsp;

As the war completes thousand days to get into the final months of 2024, the risk of escalation remains ever-present. Ukraine’s use of U.S. long-range missiles can trigger a strong Russian response, while Putin’s nuclear doctrine update has created a dangerous new path toward the potential use of nuclear weapons, reminding of Cuban missile crisis. How deeply these decisions will plunge the opposing sides further into war risking humanity, remains to be seen, but the clock is ticking, with peace remaining a distant dream.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

The war in Ukraine after 1000 days is edging ever closer to a potentially catastrophic escalation as recent decisions from both the United States and Russia highlight the increasing risks of a broader conflict.

The war in Ukraine after 1000 days is edging ever closer to a potentially catastrophic escalation as recent decisions from both the United States and Russia highlight the increasing risks of a broader conflict. US President Joe Biden has reportedly approved the use of US-supplied long-range missiles to Ukraine, despite significant concerns that this could provoke a harsh reaction from Russia. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree updating Russia's nuclear doctrine, signalling a more aggressive posture in the event of a conventional attack by non-nuclear nation supported by nuclear country. Ukraine was quick to encash Biden’s nod by targeting the Bryans (Russia) by firing six ATACM missiles, Russia is yet to respond, which brings the war to a crucial moment that could reshape the course of international geopolitical tensions in the coming months. Biden’s Decision: A Risky Gamble President Biden’s authorisation to supply Ukraine with long-range missiles, such as the ATACMS, to target Russian infrastructure has sparked heated debates among military analysts. While the official word from the White House and Pentagon remains unconfirmed, U.S. media reports suggest that Biden has given the green light for these weapons to be used in the ongoing conflict. The logic being given is the involvement of North Korean troops to support Russia was an escalation, which demanded US to concede to Ukrainian demand of such permission to boost its firepower and sagging morale. It is believed that firing these weapons requires expertise and guidance system of USA, which Russians presume as direct involvement of NATO in kinetic, contact war demanding appropriate response. Also read | Biden approves antipersonnel land mines for Ukraine amid escalating conflict with Russia: Report Some analysts highlighted the potential for this move to escalate the conflict, warning that "Biden has lost the election and has nothing more to lose from the decision, which only furthers the cause of fighting Russia till the last Ukrainian standing" to help out its deep state/arms lobby and hoping to save an embarrassment for Democrats if Ukrainian defences crumble before Trumps Presidency. With Ukraine’s use of these missiles to strike Russian territory now, a significant Russian military response can be expected, which can create conditions of involving the U.S. directly in hostilities with Russia. Politically, domestically, Biden's decision could also be viewed as an effort to entangle future U.S. administration under President elect Donald Trump in war, derailing his election promise of ending it. Interestingly neither White House nor Pentagon, nor President Zelensky have openly declared the decision, perhaps to maintain deniability to tone down Russian retaliation. Since Ukraine is likely to bear the brunt of any Russian retaliation resulting from such decisions, some NATO nations that support Ukraine believe they have little to lose militarily if Ukraine escalates its conflict with Russia as long as their soldiers are not engaged in combat and do not receive body bags. They believe that in order to keep Zelensky's defences from collapsing until early 2025 or to put him in a position where he can engage in meaningful discussions, it is crucial to provide him with continuous military and financial support as well as to raise his morale. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Putin signs decree allowing nuclear strikes on non-nuclear states Miscalculations and Battlefield Realities The Biden administration's decision to send long-range weapons to Ukraine seems to have been driven by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's persistent demands for more advanced weaponry to push back Russian forces, however, it might be a calculated risk/miscalculation on two counts depending on Russian response. First, by supplying long-range missiles with potential NATO guidance, the U.S. is effectively defying President Putin’s warnings. Earlier in ongoing war there were occasions when Putin did not follow up his threats of escalation when battle tanks and F-16 aircrafts were supplied to Ukraine; hence, Biden’s advisers feel that Putin may not follow up with nuclear options or striking some NATO target. Second, the use of long-range missiles may not be a game-changer on the battlefield. While these missiles could damage Russian infrastructure, they are unlikely to alter the fundamental dynamics of the war, where Russian forces have been making steady territorial gains in the east and south of Ukraine. The use of advanced weapons, while symbolically important for Ukraine, may not be enough to reverse Russia's momentum or lead to a decisive shift in the conflict's trajectory; hence, may not provoke a violent response of the magnitude that NATO can’t handle. Ukraine is short of trained manpower to hold on to its frontline and standoff strike weapons can’t compensate for this weakness. Putin’s Nuclear Doctrine: A Dangerous New Path As tensions rise, President Putin has also taken steps to reinforce Russia's military posture. In a move that signals an increasing willingness to use nuclear weapons in response to conventional aggression, Putin signed a decree updating Russia's nuclear doctrine. The decree includes several key provisions that could fundamentally alter the strategic calculus in the region. Under the new doctrine, nuclear deterrence is explicitly aimed not only at individual adversary states but also at military coalitions—especially those that possess nuclear weapons. Crucially, the doctrine now considers the participation of nuclear states in supporting a non-nuclear state's aggression against Russia as grounds for considering the conflict a "joint attack." This update marks a significant shift in Russia's stance, emphasizing that any attack on Russia by a non-nuclear state—if supported by a nuclear power—could trigger a nuclear response. Furthermore, the updated doctrine asserts that nuclear deterrence will be in effect at all times: in peacetime, during periods of immediate threat, and in wartime, right up until the potential use of nuclear weapons. These revisions suggest that Putin's government is willing to escalate the conflict further, with nuclear retaliation now seen as a legitimate response to conventional attacks supported by nuclear powers, such as NATO. Maintaining a strong, battle-ready nuclear arsenal has been a part of Russian strategy and it has invested heavily in it. The Impending Escalation The risk of escalation is now clearer than ever. In the coming months, both Russia and Ukraine are likely to continue jockeying for advantage before the new year. Ukrainian forces are focused on resisting further Russian territorial advances, particularly in areas like Kursk and Donbas, where Russia has made notable gains. On the other hand, Russia is aiming to solidify its control over critical areas and create conditions that make Ukraine's NATO membership virtually impossible. Russia continues to ramp up its offensive, launching missile and drone barrages targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure, cracking Ukrainian defences in intense attrition warfare. Ukraine is boosting its firepower by using U.S.-supplied long-range missiles, the most recent incident saw Ukraine firing six ATACMS missiles at the Russian Bryansk region. While five of the missiles were intercepted by Russia’s advanced S-400 and Pantsir air-defence systems, one missile was damaged and its fragments caused a fire at a military facility. This attack, while not decisive, underscores the growing risks of a broader conflict as both sides trade blows on the battlefield. NATO’s Strategic Blind Spot? The broader question remains: Has NATO truly thought through the long-term implications of its support for Ukraine? Apparently the alliance may not have adequately considered the ultimate goals of the conflict, particularly in terms of conflict termination and avoiding direct confrontation with Russia. The prospect of a prolonged, protracted war could endanger Europe’s stability and security in ways that have not been fully accounted for. For Russia, the objectives are relatively clearer: solidifying territorial gains in eastern Ukraine, securing the Donbass region, and preventing Ukraine's NATO accession. For the West, the stakes are higher, as NATO’s involvement risks a direct clash with Russia. As both sides continue to escalate, the international community must be prepared for the possibility of even intensified war—and the potential for a nuclear confrontation that could impact the world in a catastrophic manner, that no one would like imagine. As the war completes thousand days to get into the final months of 2024, the risk of escalation remains ever-present. Ukraine’s use of U.S. long-range missiles can trigger a strong Russian response, while Putin’s nuclear doctrine update has created a dangerous new path toward the potential use of nuclear weapons, reminding of Cuban missile crisis. How deeply these decisions will plunge the opposing sides further into war risking humanity, remains to be seen, but the clock is ticking, with peace remaining a distant dream. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Rising Tensions: Biden’s Long-Range Missiles for Ukraine and Putin’s Nuclear Doctrine Update 

Russia on Sunday (Nov 17) launched one of the largest air strikes on Ukraine, which as per Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky consisted of 210 missiles and drones, all allegedly targeting civilian infrastructure.

Taking to X, Zelensky said,&nbsp;"This morning began with one of the largest Russian strikes on Ukraine. 210 missiles and drones, including aeroballistic and hypersonic missiles, as well as dozens of Shahed drones, were launched. All of them targeted civilian infrastructure—critical facilities like power plants and transformers."

Ukrainian officials have described the attack as one of the largest since the war began. The attack consisted of 120 missiles and 90 drones, including advanced aeroballistic and hypersonic missiles, reports AFP. The assault forced power cuts in Kyiv and two eastern regions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russia-targets-ukraine-with-one-of-the-largest-aerial-attacks-says-kyiv-776828">Ukraine war: Russia targets Ukraine with one of the largest aerial attacks, says Kyiv</a>

Slamming Russian President Vladimir Putin, Zelensky added that he "drowns the world in his rhetoric, but his only true message is written in destruction and death, delivered through every missile and drone Russia sends."

<h2>Civilian tragedy in Sumy &nbsp;</h2>

In Ukraine's northeastern region of Sumy, on Sunday, a Russian missile strike on a multi-story residential building killed 10 people, including two children, and injured 52 others.

Calling attention to the attack, Zelensky in his X post said: "This evening, a Russian missile hit a nine-story residential building. There are confirmed fatalities, including children. Many people are wounded."

The president of the war-torn nation added that while emergency services are on the scene and are doing everything to save lives, "what is still missing—and desperately needed—is the principled reaction of the world to this evil."

He urged global leaders meeting at the G20 Summit to act decisively and said: "These days, leaders of the G20 are meeting. The entire world needs them not to turn a blind eye to Russia’s continued terror. Only when the world reacts decisively can the situation change. Russia has involved North Korea in its war—and the reaction has been weak."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-zelensky-says-conflict-will-end-sooner-once-trump-becomes-us-president-776658">Ukraine war: Zelensky says conflict will 'end sooner' once Trump becomes US president</a>

With the Ukraine war about to complete 1,000 days, Zelensky noted: "Russia has continued its terror for nearly 1,000 days—and the world’s decisions are still delayed." &nbsp;

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This morning began with one of the largest Russian strikes on Ukraine. 210 missiles and drones, including aeroballistic and hypersonic missiles, as well as dozens of Shahed drones, were launched. All of them targeted civilian infrastructure—critical facilities like power plants… <a href="https://t.co/PriNcqjJ8C">pic.twitter.com/PriNcqjJ8C</a>
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1858247147537199168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Global outcry &nbsp;</h2>

The international community swiftly condemned the attacks. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, arriving in Brazil for the G20 Summit, called the assault "horrible" and reaffirmed the bloc’s unwavering support for Ukraine, especially in energy recovery efforts. &nbsp;

"We have seen the horrible, horrible attacks this night of Russia against Ukraine, destroying civil energy infrastructure and costing an incredible amount of human lives," she told Brazil's Globo News in an interview.

Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, called the attack on "energy and critical civilian infrastructure" a violation of international humanitarian law.

"Directing attacks against civilians and civilian objects is prohibited by international humanitarian law. Any such attacks are unacceptable and must end immediately."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Sunday (Nov 17) launched one of the largest air strikes on Ukraine, which as per Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky consisted of 210 missiles and drones, all allegedly targeting civilian infrastructure.

Russia on Sunday (Nov 17) launched one of the largest air strikes on Ukraine, which as per Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky consisted of 210 missiles and drones, all allegedly targeting civilian infrastructure. Taking to X, Zelensky said, "This morning began with one of the largest Russian strikes on Ukraine. 210 missiles and drones, including aeroballistic and hypersonic missiles, as well as dozens of Shahed drones, were launched. All of them targeted civilian infrastructure—critical facilities like power plants and transformers." Ukrainian officials have described the attack as one of the largest since the war began. The attack consisted of 120 missiles and 90 drones, including advanced aeroballistic and hypersonic missiles, reports AFP. The assault forced power cuts in Kyiv and two eastern regions. Also read | Ukraine war: Russia targets Ukraine with one of the largest aerial attacks, says Kyiv Slamming Russian President Vladimir Putin, Zelensky added that he "drowns the world in his rhetoric, but his only true message is written in destruction and death, delivered through every missile and drone Russia sends." Civilian tragedy in Sumy In Ukraine's northeastern region of Sumy, on Sunday, a Russian missile strike on a multi-story residential building killed 10 people, including two children, and injured 52 others. Calling attention to the attack, Zelensky in his X post said: "This evening, a Russian missile hit a nine-story residential building. There are confirmed fatalities, including children. Many people are wounded." The president of the war-torn nation added that while emergency services are on the scene and are doing everything to save lives, "what is still missing—and desperately needed—is the principled reaction of the world to this evil." He urged global leaders meeting at the G20 Summit to act decisively and said: "These days, leaders of the G20 are meeting. The entire world needs them not to turn a blind eye to Russia’s continued terror. Only when the world reacts decisively can the situation change. Russia has involved North Korea in its war—and the reaction has been weak." Also read | Ukraine war: Zelensky says conflict will 'end sooner' once Trump becomes US president With the Ukraine war about to complete 1,000 days, Zelensky noted: "Russia has continued its terror for nearly 1,000 days—and the world’s decisions are still delayed." This morning began with one of the largest Russian strikes on Ukraine. 210 missiles and drones, including aeroballistic and hypersonic missiles, as well as dozens of Shahed drones, were launched. All of them targeted civilian infrastructure—critical facilities like power plants… pic.twitter.com/PriNcqjJ8C — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) November 17, 2024 × Global outcry The international community swiftly condemned the attacks. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, arriving in Brazil for the G20 Summit, called the assault "horrible" and reaffirmed the bloc’s unwavering support for Ukraine, especially in energy recovery efforts. "We have seen the horrible, horrible attacks this night of Russia against Ukraine, destroying civil energy infrastructure and costing an incredible amount of human lives," she told Brazil's Globo News in an interview. Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, called the attack on "energy and critical civilian infrastructure" a violation of international humanitarian law. "Directing attacks against civilians and civilian objects is prohibited by international humanitarian law. Any such attacks are unacceptable and must end immediately." (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky slams Russia's 'destruction and death' after largest air strike on Ukraine

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