The world is currently witnessing two devastating wars. The war between Israel and Hamas and the war between Russia and Ukraine. In a new update. UK and other northern European allies have announced a new military support package for Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine war: Package worth $123 MN aims to assist Ukraine's armed forces

Russian President Vladimir Putin ramps up his nuclear rhetoric. During his speech on Thursday at the Annual Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi, Putin announced that Russia has successfully carried out the test of a new generation nuclear-powered cruise missile. And further suggested that the country could resume nuclear testing for the first time in more than three decades.

Russian President Putin makes keynote speech in Sochi

Russia has reportedly withdrawn the bulk of its Black Sea Fleet from its main naval base in Crimea. Well according to a Wall Street Journal report three attacked submarines and two frigates have been withdrawn to other ports in Russia and Crimea.

Russia moving ships from Crimea port: Report

Russia experienced the largest drone assault on its own territory since the start of the war with Ukraine. The attack was reportedly carried out by Ukrainian forces in retaliation for Russian aggression.

Russia sees biggest drone assault on its own territory

<p>Drunk recruits. Insubordinate soldiers. Convicts.</p>

<p>They're among hundreds of military and civilian offenders who've been pressed into Russian penal units known as "Storm-Z" squads and sent to the frontlines in Ukraine this year, according to 13 people with knowledge of the matter, including five fighters in the units.</p>

<p>Few live to tell their tale, the people said.</p>

<p>"Storm fighters, they're just meat," said one regular soldier from army unit no. 40318 who was deployed near the fiercely contested city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine in May and June.</p>

<p>He said he'd given medical treatment to a group of six or seven wounded Storm-Z fighters on the battlefield, disobeying an order from a commander - whose name he didn't know - to leave the men. He said he didn't know why the commander gave the order, but claimed that it typified how Storm-Z fighters were considered of lesser value than ordinary troops by officers.</p>

<p>The soldier, who requested anonymity because he feared prosecution in Russia for publicly discussing the war, said he had sympathy for the men's plight: "If the commandants catch anyone with the smell of alcohol on their breath, then they immediately send them to the Storm squads."</p>

<p>When contacted by Reuters, an officer at unit no. 40318 declined to comment on Storm-Z and ended the call. The Kremlin referred Reuters questions to the Russian defence ministry, which didn't respond to a request for comment.</p>

<p>Russian state-controlled media has reported that Storm-Z squads exist, that they took part in intense battles and some of their members received medals for bravery, but it has not disclosed how they are formed, or the losses they take.</p>

<p>Reuters is the first news organisation to compile a comprehensive account of how the squads are put together and deployed, by speaking to multiple sources with direct knowledge of what is happening.</p>

<p>Like the soldier from unit no. 40318, the 13 people interviewed - who also include four relatives of Storm-Z members as well as three soldiers in regular units who interacted with the squads - all requested anonymity, citing fear of reprisals. Reuters verified the identities of all the fighters involved using criminal records, social media accounts, or by speaking to their fellow serviceman and their families.</p>

<p>The penal squads, each about 100-150 strong and embedded within regular army units, have typically been sent to the most exposed parts of the front and often sustain heavy losses, according to Reuters interviews with the people, who identified at least five Storm-Z teams fighting to repel a Ukrainian counteroffensive in the east and south.</p>

<p>Three of the five Storm-Z fighters interviewed by Reuters, and the relatives of three other Storm-Z fighters, described nightmarish engagements that saw much of their squads wiped out.</p>

<p>One fighter, with a conviction for theft who was recruited from prison, said all but 15 of the 120 men in his unit embedded with the 237th regiment were killed or wounded in fighting near Bakhmut in June.</p>

<p>The deployment of such squads marks a departure for Russia in Ukraine: while the Wagner mercenary group - now being disbanded after a June mutiny - sent convicts to fight on the frontline, the Storm-Z units come under the direct command of the defence ministry.</p>

<p>The squads also combine convicts who volunteer to fight in exchange for the promise of a pardon with regular soldiers being punished for disciplinary breaches, the people interviewed said.</p>

<p>The Storm-Z squads are useful to the Russian defence ministry because they can be deployed as expendable infantry, according to Conflict Intelligence Team, an independent organisation that's tracking the war. "The Storm fighters are just sent to the most dangerous parts of the front, in defence and in attack," the group, which was founded in Russia, told Reuters.</p>

<p>While the Russian defence ministry has never acknowledged creating Storm-Z units, the first reports of their existence emerged in April when the Institute for the Study of War, a U.S.-based think-tank, cited what it said appeared to be a leaked Russian military report on the formation of the squads.</p>

<p>Reuters wasn't able to determine how many soldiers in total are serving in the units, though the interviews with the people familiar with the matter point to at least several hundred Storm-Z fighters currently being deployed on the frontline.</p>

<p>Wagner had about 25,000 fighters engaged in the conflict, its late leader Yevgeny Prigozhin said at the time of his June mutiny.</p>

<p>President Vladimir Putin made reference to convicts fighting in the regular army on Friday. At a televised meeting with a small group of regular Russian servicemen, he said he was aware that two of their comrades, former prison inmates, had been killed in action. "They gave their lives for the motherland and have fully absolved themselves of their guilt," said Putin, adding that the convicts' families would be given help, without elaborating.</p>

<p>There is historical precedent for military offenders being pressed into fighting units; in 1942, when the Red Army was retreating from a Nazi advance, Soviet leader Josef Stalin ordered soldiers who panicked or left their posts into "punishment battalions" deployed to the most dangerous parts of the front, according to a decree he signed.</p>

<p>Ukraine's government has said it also releases some convicts if they agree to fight in the war.</p>

<h2><strong>From custody to carnage</strong></h2>

<p>Storm-Z is an unofficial term used by Russian troops, combining a term for assault troops with the letter Z, adopted by the military as a symbol of their invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>Artyom Shchikin, a 29-year-old from the Mordovia region in central Russia, was serving a two-year sentence for robbery handed down in December 2021 when defence ministry recruiters came to his jail asking if inmates wanted to go and fight in Ukraine, according to court records and two of his relatives.</p>

<p>He signed up because, even though he was scheduled for release in December this year, he wanted to wipe clean his criminal record plus earn money so his family could renovate their home, his family members said. Three Storm-Z fighters said they were offered wages of about 200,000 roubles ($2,000) per month, though said they had been paid roughly half that amount, on average.</p>

<p>By May this year, Shchikin was assigned to a penal unit within the 291st Guards Motorised Rifle Regiment and deployed to the Zaporizhzhia region in southern Ukraine, where Kyiv's forces are trying to break through Russian defences, the relatives added.</p>

<p>An official with the regimental headquarters didn't respond to Reuters questions.</p>

<p>Vladimir Rogov, an official in the Russian-installed administration in Zaporizhzhia who gives regular online updates about the conflict, has posted on Telegram that the 291st regiment was fighting in the region throughout the summer. Rogov didn't respond to a Reuters request for comment.</p>

<p>Shchikin's relatives last heard from him on June 18.</p>

<p>Days later, his unit's positions came under Ukrainian fire, the relatives said, citing conversations with two survivors from Shchikin's squad. Three comrades who had been in a trench with him were killed, another had his hand torn off, while Shchikin himself is missing, the relatives said. His body hasn't been recovered.</p>

<p>Shchikin's relatives said when they asked the defence ministry for answers about his fate, it either didn't respond or didn't give any definitive answers.</p>

<p>"They were from a Storm unit. For them, no one is going to be in a rush," said one relative.</p>

<p>Reuters was unable to independently confirm the relatives' account of events.</p>

<h2><strong>Drunk on duty, using drugs</strong></h2>

<p>While convicts form the core of the penal squads, some regular soldiers have been assigned to them as punishment for breaking discipline, according to two soldiers who said members of their units had been transferred in this way, as well as a Storm-Z fighter called Igor, a convict jailed for attempted murder.</p>

<p>The two soldiers, including the one from unit no. 40318, said officers had sent soldiers to Storm-Z for being drunk on duty, for using drugs, and for refusing to carry out orders.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Truck-mounted Caesar Howitzers for Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>According to Russian legislation on military discipline, a soldier can only be transferred to a penal unit if convicted by a military court. None of the people who told Reuters of soldiers being sent to Storm-Z said the men had participated in a court hearing. Contacted last week, the soldier from unit no. 40318 said there were no court hearings involved in such transfers, and Igor, the Storm-Z fighter, said he had no knowledge of court hearings having taken place.</p>

<p>The Geneva convention, a set of international rules of war, doesn't cover soldiers being punished by their own side.</p>

<h2><strong>Revolt of Storm-Z fighters</strong></h2>

<p>One group of about 20 Storm-Z fighters in Zaporizhzhia, who were part of unit number 22179, decided they'd had enough of their treatment, refused an order to go back to the frontline, and recorded a June 28 video complaining about their treatment. Reuters called numbers listed for the unit, but they were out of operation.</p>

<p>"On the frontline, where we've been, we did not get deliveries of ammunition. We did not get water or food. The injured were not taken away: still now the dead are rotting," said a fighter in the video, whom Reuters was unable to identify.</p>

<p>"We're given dreadful orders that are not even worth carrying out," he added. "We refuse to continue carrying out combat missions."</p>

<p>Reuters established the identities of two of the fighters involved in the revolt, and spoke to a relative of each man who corroborated the account in the video, which was published on June 28 by Gulagu.net, a France-based campaign group for Russian prisoners' rights, and reviewed by Reuters.</p>

<p>After the video was published, military police officers beat up the two fighters, and others in their squad, as punishment for their revolt, the two relatives said. Since then, they said the two fighters had told them that conditions had improved but they did not know when the men would be allowed to quit the military.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/burger-king-continues-to-remain-open-in-russia-even-after-pledge-to-exit-642085"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Burger King continues to remain open in Russia even after pledge to exit</strong></a></p>

<p>Russian officials have made no public comment about the incident, and the defence ministry didn't reply to Reuters queries.</p>

<p>The family member of one of the soldiers in the revolt, a man from Siberia who had volunteered to join Storm-Z from prison, said she dreaded news from the front.</p>

<p>"My God, let this end soon," she said of the war.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>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</strong></em></p>

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Drunk recruits. Insubordinate soldiers. Convicts. They're among hundreds of military and civilian offenders who've been pressed into Russian penal units known as "Storm-Z" squads and sent to the frontlines in Ukraine this year, according to 13 people with knowledge of the matter, including five fighters in the units.

Drunk recruits. Insubordinate soldiers. Convicts. They're among hundreds of military and civilian offenders who've been pressed into Russian penal units known as "Storm-Z" squads and sent to the frontlines in Ukraine this year, according to 13 people with knowledge of the matter, including five fighters in the units. Few live to tell their tale, the people said. "Storm fighters, they're just meat," said one regular soldier from army unit no. 40318 who was deployed near the fiercely contested city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine in May and June. He said he'd given medical treatment to a group of six or seven wounded Storm-Z fighters on the battlefield, disobeying an order from a commander - whose name he didn't know - to leave the men. He said he didn't know why the commander gave the order, but claimed that it typified how Storm-Z fighters were considered of lesser value than ordinary troops by officers. The soldier, who requested anonymity because he feared prosecution in Russia for publicly discussing the war, said he had sympathy for the men's plight: "If the commandants catch anyone with the smell of alcohol on their breath, then they immediately send them to the Storm squads." When contacted by Reuters, an officer at unit no. 40318 declined to comment on Storm-Z and ended the call. The Kremlin referred Reuters questions to the Russian defence ministry, which didn't respond to a request for comment. Russian state-controlled media has reported that Storm-Z squads exist, that they took part in intense battles and some of their members received medals for bravery, but it has not disclosed how they are formed, or the losses they take. Reuters is the first news organisation to compile a comprehensive account of how the squads are put together and deployed, by speaking to multiple sources with direct knowledge of what is happening. Like the soldier from unit no. 40318, the 13 people interviewed - who also include four relatives of Storm-Z members as well as three soldiers in regular units who interacted with the squads - all requested anonymity, citing fear of reprisals. Reuters verified the identities of all the fighters involved using criminal records, social media accounts, or by speaking to their fellow serviceman and their families. The penal squads, each about 100-150 strong and embedded within regular army units, have typically been sent to the most exposed parts of the front and often sustain heavy losses, according to Reuters interviews with the people, who identified at least five Storm-Z teams fighting to repel a Ukrainian counteroffensive in the east and south. Three of the five Storm-Z fighters interviewed by Reuters, and the relatives of three other Storm-Z fighters, described nightmarish engagements that saw much of their squads wiped out. One fighter, with a conviction for theft who was recruited from prison, said all but 15 of the 120 men in his unit embedded with the 237th regiment were killed or wounded in fighting near Bakhmut in June. The deployment of such squads marks a departure for Russia in Ukraine: while the Wagner mercenary group - now being disbanded after a June mutiny - sent convicts to fight on the frontline, the Storm-Z units come under the direct command of the defence ministry. The squads also combine convicts who volunteer to fight in exchange for the promise of a pardon with regular soldiers being punished for disciplinary breaches, the people interviewed said. The Storm-Z squads are useful to the Russian defence ministry because they can be deployed as expendable infantry, according to Conflict Intelligence Team, an independent organisation that's tracking the war. "The Storm fighters are just sent to the most dangerous parts of the front, in defence and in attack," the group, which was founded in Russia, told Reuters. While the Russian defence ministry has never acknowledged creating Storm-Z units, the first reports of their existence emerged in April when the Institute for the Study of War, a U.S.-based think-tank, cited what it said appeared to be a leaked Russian military report on the formation of the squads. Reuters wasn't able to determine how many soldiers in total are serving in the units, though the interviews with the people familiar with the matter point to at least several hundred Storm-Z fighters currently being deployed on the frontline. Wagner had about 25,000 fighters engaged in the conflict, its late leader Yevgeny Prigozhin said at the time of his June mutiny. President Vladimir Putin made reference to convicts fighting in the regular army on Friday. At a televised meeting with a small group of regular Russian servicemen, he said he was aware that two of their comrades, former prison inmates, had been killed in action. "They gave their lives for the motherland and have fully absolved themselves of their guilt," said Putin, adding that the convicts' families would be given help, without elaborating. There is historical precedent for military offenders being pressed into fighting units; in 1942, when the Red Army was retreating from a Nazi advance, Soviet leader Josef Stalin ordered soldiers who panicked or left their posts into "punishment battalions" deployed to the most dangerous parts of the front, according to a decree he signed. Ukraine's government has said it also releases some convicts if they agree to fight in the war. From custody to carnage Storm-Z is an unofficial term used by Russian troops, combining a term for assault troops with the letter Z, adopted by the military as a symbol of their invasion of Ukraine. Artyom Shchikin, a 29-year-old from the Mordovia region in central Russia, was serving a two-year sentence for robbery handed down in December 2021 when defence ministry recruiters came to his jail asking if inmates wanted to go and fight in Ukraine, according to court records and two of his relatives. He signed up because, even though he was scheduled for release in December this year, he wanted to wipe clean his criminal record plus earn money so his family could renovate their home, his family members said. Three Storm-Z fighters said they were offered wages of about 200,000 roubles ($2,000) per month, though said they had been paid roughly half that amount, on average. By May this year, Shchikin was assigned to a penal unit within the 291st Guards Motorised Rifle Regiment and deployed to the Zaporizhzhia region in southern Ukraine, where Kyiv's forces are trying to break through Russian defences, the relatives added. An official with the regimental headquarters didn't respond to Reuters questions. Vladimir Rogov, an official in the Russian-installed administration in Zaporizhzhia who gives regular online updates about the conflict, has posted on Telegram that the 291st regiment was fighting in the region throughout the summer. Rogov didn't respond to a Reuters request for comment. Shchikin's relatives last heard from him on June 18. Days later, his unit's positions came under Ukrainian fire, the relatives said, citing conversations with two survivors from Shchikin's squad. Three comrades who had been in a trench with him were killed, another had his hand torn off, while Shchikin himself is missing, the relatives said. His body hasn't been recovered. Shchikin's relatives said when they asked the defence ministry for answers about his fate, it either didn't respond or didn't give any definitive answers. "They were from a Storm unit. For them, no one is going to be in a rush," said one relative. Reuters was unable to independently confirm the relatives' account of events. Drunk on duty, using drugs While convicts form the core of the penal squads, some regular soldiers have been assigned to them as punishment for breaking discipline, according to two soldiers who said members of their units had been transferred in this way, as well as a Storm-Z fighter called Igor, a convict jailed for attempted murder. The two soldiers, including the one from unit no. 40318, said officers had sent soldiers to Storm-Z for being drunk on duty, for using drugs, and for refusing to carry out orders. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Truck-mounted Caesar Howitzers for Ukraine × According to Russian legislation on military discipline, a soldier can only be transferred to a penal unit if convicted by a military court. None of the people who told Reuters of soldiers being sent to Storm-Z said the men had participated in a court hearing. Contacted last week, the soldier from unit no. 40318 said there were no court hearings involved in such transfers, and Igor, the Storm-Z fighter, said he had no knowledge of court hearings having taken place. The Geneva convention, a set of international rules of war, doesn't cover soldiers being punished by their own side. Revolt of Storm-Z fighters One group of about 20 Storm-Z fighters in Zaporizhzhia, who were part of unit number 22179, decided they'd had enough of their treatment, refused an order to go back to the frontline, and recorded a June 28 video complaining about their treatment. Reuters called numbers listed for the unit, but they were out of operation. "On the frontline, where we've been, we did not get deliveries of ammunition. We did not get water or food. The injured were not taken away: still now the dead are rotting," said a fighter in the video, whom Reuters was unable to identify. "We're given dreadful orders that are not even worth carrying out," he added. "We refuse to continue carrying out combat missions." Reuters established the identities of two of the fighters involved in the revolt, and spoke to a relative of each man who corroborated the account in the video, which was published on June 28 by Gulagu.net, a France-based campaign group for Russian prisoners' rights, and reviewed by Reuters. After the video was published, military police officers beat up the two fighters, and others in their squad, as punishment for their revolt, the two relatives said. Since then, they said the two fighters had told them that conditions had improved but they did not know when the men would be allowed to quit the military. Also read: Burger King continues to remain open in Russia even after pledge to exit Russian officials have made no public comment about the incident, and the defence ministry didn't reply to Reuters queries. The family member of one of the soldiers in the revolt, a man from Siberia who had volunteered to join Storm-Z from prison, said she dreaded news from the front. "My God, let this end soon," she said of the war. 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 WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia's 'Storm-Z' squads: Tale of hundreds of offenders sent to frontlines to fight Ukraine

According to recent reports, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is "keen" to visit India later this year.

Ukraine president Zelensky 'keen' to visit India this year

Russia's mercenary group Wagner is back in the news The Russian President Vladimir Putin met one of the most senior former commanders of the Wagner group and during the meeting, Putin discussed the tactics of using volunteer units in the Ukraine war.

Russia attempt to show Wagner under control? | Putin meets former Wagner commander

Since the war broke out between Russia and Ukraine defensive military assistance has been provided to Kyiv by its allies. Now Moscow has claimed that Washington and London have helped Ukraine orchestrate last week's unprecedented strike.

Moscow alleges US, UK aided Ukraine missile strike in Crimea

Since the war broke out between Russia and Ukraine defensive military assistance has been provided to Kyiv by its allies.

Ukraine: Troops build makeshift lab, use 3D printers to arm drones

<p>One year after the mysterious attack on the Nord Stream pipelines, investigators are still working tirelessly to uncover the truth behind the explosions that rocked the region.</p>

<p>Recent findings from Norwegian scientists have shed new light on the events surrounding the attack, including previously unknown explosions and a potential timeline of events, reported the Guardian.</p>

<h2><strong>Discovery of additional explosions</strong></h2>

<p>Norwegian scientists have provided seismic evidence that adds a significant layer of complexity to the Nord Stream pipeline attack.</p>

<p>Their findings confirm not only the two previously known detonations but also reveal two additional explosions. These new blasts occurred in an area northeast of the Danish Baltic island of Bornholm, approximately seven seconds and 16 seconds after the initial incidents.</p>

<p>The researchers used data from seismic stations across northern Europe and Germany, including the Swedish National Seismic Network and Danish stations on Bornholm.</p>

<p>Through advanced seismic analysis techniques, they were able to pinpoint the exact locations and timings of these explosions. This breakthrough marks a crucial step forward in understanding the attack.</p>

<p>The four explosions were termed&nbsp;as Event S, Event N, Event NA, and the newly discovered events NB and NC. Event S and Event N were identified on September 26, 2022, soon after the attack, with Event S occurring at 02:03:24 (UTC+2) on Nord Stream 2 and Event N at 19:03:50 (UTC+2) on Nord Stream 1. Norsar, Norway’s national data centre&nbsp;for the comprehensive nuclear test ban treaty (CTBT), suggests that more explosions may be hidden within the data.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dutch-spies-warned-cia-of-ukraines-plans-to-blow-up-nord-stream-pipelines-report-604335">Dutch spies warned CIA of Ukraine's plans to blow up Nord Stream pipelines: Report</a></p>

<h2><strong>Suspected perpetrators</strong></h2>

<p>While investigations are ongoing, several theories have emerged regarding the perpetrators of the Nord Stream pipeline attack.</p>

<p>Some officials quoted in the US and German press point towards a Ukrainian-backed group or a pro-Ukrainian faction operating independently from Kyiv's leadership.</p>

<p>Suspicion has also fallen on a rental yacht called the Andromeda, with evidence suggesting Kyiv's involvement.</p>

<p>However, doubts linger over whether a small crew could execute the intricate underwater sabotage.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia to bring up issue of Nord Stream investigation at UNSC</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>US intelligence and Russian ships</strong></h2>

<p>A leaked US defence document indicated that the CIA received information from a European agency three months before the attack, hinting at a Ukrainian special operations mission to sabotage the pipeline.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Scandinavian media reports have highlighted the presence of unidentified Russian ships with deactivated transponders in the vicinity of the explosion sites in the days leading up to the incident.</p>

<p>The Nord Stream pipelines, managed by Nord Stream AG and Nord Stream 2 AG, both majority-owned by Russian state energy giant Gazprom, play a critical role in transporting up to 110 billion cubic meters of gas annually from Russia to Germany. Nord Stream 1 commenced operations in 2012, while Nord Stream 2 was completed in 2021 but never transported gas due to geopolitical opposition.</p>

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One year after the mysterious attack on the Nord Stream pipelines, investigators are still working tirelessly to uncover the truth behind the explosions that rocked the region.

One year after the mysterious attack on the Nord Stream pipelines, investigators are still working tirelessly to uncover the truth behind the explosions that rocked the region. Recent findings from Norwegian scientists have shed new light on the events surrounding the attack, including previously unknown explosions and a potential timeline of events, reported the Guardian. Discovery of additional explosions Norwegian scientists have provided seismic evidence that adds a significant layer of complexity to the Nord Stream pipeline attack. Their findings confirm not only the two previously known detonations but also reveal two additional explosions. These new blasts occurred in an area northeast of the Danish Baltic island of Bornholm, approximately seven seconds and 16 seconds after the initial incidents. The researchers used data from seismic stations across northern Europe and Germany, including the Swedish National Seismic Network and Danish stations on Bornholm. Through advanced seismic analysis techniques, they were able to pinpoint the exact locations and timings of these explosions. This breakthrough marks a crucial step forward in understanding the attack. The four explosions were termed as Event S, Event N, Event NA, and the newly discovered events NB and NC. Event S and Event N were identified on September 26, 2022, soon after the attack, with Event S occurring at 02:03:24 (UTC+2) on Nord Stream 2 and Event N at 19:03:50 (UTC+2) on Nord Stream 1. Norsar, Norway’s national data centre for the comprehensive nuclear test ban treaty (CTBT), suggests that more explosions may be hidden within the data. Also read | Dutch spies warned CIA of Ukraine's plans to blow up Nord Stream pipelines: Report Suspected perpetrators While investigations are ongoing, several theories have emerged regarding the perpetrators of the Nord Stream pipeline attack. Some officials quoted in the US and German press point towards a Ukrainian-backed group or a pro-Ukrainian faction operating independently from Kyiv's leadership. Suspicion has also fallen on a rental yacht called the Andromeda, with evidence suggesting Kyiv's involvement. However, doubts linger over whether a small crew could execute the intricate underwater sabotage. Also watch | Russia to bring up issue of Nord Stream investigation at UNSC US intelligence and Russian ships A leaked US defence document indicated that the CIA received information from a European agency three months before the attack, hinting at a Ukrainian special operations mission to sabotage the pipeline. Meanwhile, Scandinavian media reports have highlighted the presence of unidentified Russian ships with deactivated transponders in the vicinity of the explosion sites in the days leading up to the incident. The Nord Stream pipelines, managed by Nord Stream AG and Nord Stream 2 AG, both majority-owned by Russian state energy giant Gazprom, play a critical role in transporting up to 110 billion cubic meters of gas annually from Russia to Germany. Nord Stream 1 commenced operations in 2012, while Nord Stream 2 was completed in 2021 but never transported gas due to geopolitical opposition. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Scientists reveal crucial discoveries about Nord Stream pipeline blasts. Here's what they found

<p>US&nbsp;President Joe Biden’s administration on Monday imposed new trade restrictions on 11 Chinese and five Russian companies, accusing some of supplying components to make drones for Russia’s war effort in Ukraine.</p>

<p>The Commerce Department, which oversees export policy, added a total of 28 firms, including some Finnish and German companies, to a trade blacklist, making it harder for US&nbsp;suppliers to ship them technology.</p>

<p>Nine of the companies, including China’s Asia Pacific Links Ltd. and Russia’s SMT-iLogic, allegedly took part in a scheme to supply the previously blacklisted Special Technology Center with drone parts for Russia’s Main Intelligence Directorate of the General Staff (GRU).</p>

<p>An investigation by Reuters and iStories, a Russian media outlet, in collaboration with the Royal United Services Institute, a defence think tank in London, last year uncovered a logistical trail that spans the globe and ends at the Orlan drone’s production line, the Special Technology Centre in St. Petersburg, Russia.</p>

<p>The investigation found that Hong Kong-based exporter Asia Pacific Links Ltd. has been among the most important suppliers to Russia’s drone program. The firm, along with import company SMT iLogic, were the target of an earlier round of U.S. sanctions in May.</p>

<p>The companies did not immediately respond to requests for comment.</p>

<p>“We will not hesitate to take swift and meaningful action against those who continue seeking to supply and support Putin’s illegal and immoral war in Ukraine,” the Commerce Department’s export controls chief Alan Estevez said in a statement.</p>

<p>Another six Chinese entities were added for allegedly procuring aerospace parts for the Iran Aircraft Manufacturing Company that are used to make drones used by Iran to attack oil tankers in the Middle East and by Russia in Ukraine, according to the Commerce Department.</p>

<p>The Special Technology Center in St. Petersburg, Russia, which once made a variety of surveillance gadgets for the Russian government and now focuses on drones for the military, was first targeted by U.S. sanctions after former President Barack Obama said it had worked with Russian military intelligence to try to influence the 2016 U.S. presidential election.</p>

<p>The United States has aggressively used a trade blacklist known as the entity list to target China’s tech sector and attempt to stymie Russia’s war in Ukraine.</p>

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US President Joe Biden’s administration on Monday imposed new trade restrictions on 11 Chinese and five Russian companies, accusing some of supplying components to make drones for Russia’s war effort in Ukraine.

US President Joe Biden’s administration on Monday imposed new trade restrictions on 11 Chinese and five Russian companies, accusing some of supplying components to make drones for Russia’s war effort in Ukraine. The Commerce Department, which oversees export policy, added a total of 28 firms, including some Finnish and German companies, to a trade blacklist, making it harder for US suppliers to ship them technology. Nine of the companies, including China’s Asia Pacific Links Ltd. and Russia’s SMT-iLogic, allegedly took part in a scheme to supply the previously blacklisted Special Technology Center with drone parts for Russia’s Main Intelligence Directorate of the General Staff (GRU). An investigation by Reuters and iStories, a Russian media outlet, in collaboration with the Royal United Services Institute, a defence think tank in London, last year uncovered a logistical trail that spans the globe and ends at the Orlan drone’s production line, the Special Technology Centre in St. Petersburg, Russia. The investigation found that Hong Kong-based exporter Asia Pacific Links Ltd. has been among the most important suppliers to Russia’s drone program. The firm, along with import company SMT iLogic, were the target of an earlier round of U.S. sanctions in May. The companies did not immediately respond to requests for comment. “We will not hesitate to take swift and meaningful action against those who continue seeking to supply and support Putin’s illegal and immoral war in Ukraine,” the Commerce Department’s export controls chief Alan Estevez said in a statement. Another six Chinese entities were added for allegedly procuring aerospace parts for the Iran Aircraft Manufacturing Company that are used to make drones used by Iran to attack oil tankers in the Middle East and by Russia in Ukraine, according to the Commerce Department. The Special Technology Center in St. Petersburg, Russia, which once made a variety of surveillance gadgets for the Russian government and now focuses on drones for the military, was first targeted by U.S. sanctions after former President Barack Obama said it had worked with Russian military intelligence to try to influence the 2016 U.S. presidential election. The United States has aggressively used a trade blacklist known as the entity list to target China’s tech sector and attempt to stymie Russia’s war in Ukraine. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US hits Chinese, Russian firms over Moscow military aid

<p>German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has reportedly admitted that Berlin had occasionally sent outdated or almost non-functional military equipment to Ukraine.</p>

<p>"It does not only help to promise, and then you cannot deliver, or deliver things which do not work ... Some of our systems were really old-fashioned," Baerbock said in an interview with US media, according to Sputnik news agency.</p>

<p>“So, because we know and we said that in the beginning, some are not really functioning, when we deliver, it does have to work in the field,” she was quoted as saying.</p>

<h2><strong>Germany second-largest supplier of arms aid to Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Recently, Ukraine had refused to accept a batch of 10 archaic Leopard-1A5 from Germany on the grounds that these tanks required extensive repair work, the German publication Spiegel&nbsp;reported.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian Defence Ministry said that the repair and maintenance work would require spare parts and technical expertise that Kyiv does not have.</p>

<p>Though initially late in responding to Ukraine’s demand for military aid, Germany has slowly become the second-largest contributor of arms aid to Ukraine.</p>

<p>According to the Kiel Institute for the World Economy report, till July 2023, Germany has sent military aid worth $18.9 billion, second only to the United States which has sent $ 46.6 billion worth of arms and military equipment.</p>

<p>In May this year, Berlin pledged to send a military aid package worth 2.7bn euros ($2.95bn), to show “that Germany is serious in its support” for Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>Poland’s tiff with Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>The development comes after Poland, one of the most steadfast allies of Ukraine, refused to provide additional weaponry to Kyiv as a row over Ukrainian grain intensified.</p>

<p>Poland, along with Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia, had banned the imports of Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed and sunflower seeds in a bid to protect their domestic market.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tibetans-seek-autonomy-not-political-separation-from-china-dalai-lama-639609">Tibetans seek autonomy, not political separation from China: Dalai Lama</a></p>

<p>The move angered Ukraine which threatened to sue these countries if they didn’t revoke their decision.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said that his country had decided to prioritise its own defence in the future.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-slams-moodys-hot-humid-claims-over-aadhaars-efficiency-639602">India slams Moody's 'hot, humid' claims over Aadhaar's security</a></p>

<p>“We are no longer transferring weapons to Ukraine because we are now arming Poland with more modern weapons,” he said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In terms of exporting arms to Ukraine for the war, Poland has offered not more than 320 Soviet-era tanks and 14 MiG-29 fighter jets.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has reportedly admitted that Berlin had occasionally sent outdated or almost non-functional military equipment to Ukraine.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has reportedly admitted that Berlin had occasionally sent outdated or almost non-functional military equipment to Ukraine. "It does not only help to promise, and then you cannot deliver, or deliver things which do not work ... Some of our systems were really old-fashioned," Baerbock said in an interview with US media, according to Sputnik news agency. “So, because we know and we said that in the beginning, some are not really functioning, when we deliver, it does have to work in the field,” she was quoted as saying. Germany second-largest supplier of arms aid to Ukraine Recently, Ukraine had refused to accept a batch of 10 archaic Leopard-1A5 from Germany on the grounds that these tanks required extensive repair work, the German publication Spiegel reported. The Ukrainian Defence Ministry said that the repair and maintenance work would require spare parts and technical expertise that Kyiv does not have. Though initially late in responding to Ukraine’s demand for military aid, Germany has slowly become the second-largest contributor of arms aid to Ukraine. According to the Kiel Institute for the World Economy report, till July 2023, Germany has sent military aid worth $18.9 billion, second only to the United States which has sent $ 46.6 billion worth of arms and military equipment. In May this year, Berlin pledged to send a military aid package worth 2.7bn euros ($2.95bn), to show “that Germany is serious in its support” for Ukraine. Poland’s tiff with Ukraine The development comes after Poland, one of the most steadfast allies of Ukraine, refused to provide additional weaponry to Kyiv as a row over Ukrainian grain intensified. Poland, along with Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia, had banned the imports of Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed and sunflower seeds in a bid to protect their domestic market. Also read | Tibetans seek autonomy, not political separation from China: Dalai Lama The move angered Ukraine which threatened to sue these countries if they didn’t revoke their decision. Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said that his country had decided to prioritise its own defence in the future. Also read | India slams Moody's 'hot, humid' claims over Aadhaar's security “We are no longer transferring weapons to Ukraine because we are now arming Poland with more modern weapons,” he said. In terms of exporting arms to Ukraine for the war, Poland has offered not more than 320 Soviet-era tanks and 14 MiG-29 fighter jets. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

German minister admits Berlin sending outdated weapons to Ukraine for Russian war: Report

The ongoing war with Ukraine and the resulting economic sanctions imposed by the West have not deterred Russia from increasing its budget spending. Russia's PM Mikhail Mishustin is all set to increase its spending by at least 25% to nearly 383 billion dollars in 2024. A large part of the increase in spending is expected to go towards the military and the social sector.

Russia to increase spending in 2024

Ukraine has launched a strong and audacious attack Ukrainian forces have targeted the Russian naval base.

Russia's navy HQ hit in Crimea missile attack

The support by the Western nations that are approaching the process of funding and aiding Ukraine in this war is now pretty stuck. This report tells

Are Ukraine's allies abandoning Zelensky?

Has a war fatigue set in among Kyiv's allies?

Ukraine's military said on Friday that its troops have captured a village near Bakhmut, the eastern city that fell into Russian hands in May after being besieged for many months.

Bakhmut has seen the bloodiest battles of the Russia-Ukraine war

A month after the death of Wagner Chief in a plane crash, Kremlin has moved to take direct control of the Wagner group's operations in the Central African Republic. In one of the first indications of what will happen to the late Wagner boss's foreign empire.

What's next for Wagner group in Africa?

<p>Ukraine flagged off a vessel carrying grains from the Black Sea port, defying Russian threats of treating civilian vessels as 'potential military targets.'</p>

<p>"The vessel Resilient Africa with 3,000 tonnes of wheat has left the port of Chornomorsk and is heading towards the Bosphorus," Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kurakov said on social media.</p>

<p>He said that the ship had also entered the Ukrainian port several weeks earlier through the newly-established corridor, alongside one other vessel that would soon depart for Egypt.</p>

<p>Russia had warned of action after it unilaterally pulled out of an agreement in July that had been brokered by the United Nations and Turkey to allow maritime exports from Ukraine.</p>

<p>Since then, Kyiv created a naval corridor that several cargo ships have used. It mainly transports vessels through the Danube River, and road and rail links into Europe.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine: A major producer of grain</strong></h2>

<p>However, due to this, the transport costs have shot up, with some European countries have balked at the consequential local grain prices, and the Danube ports can’t handle the same volume as seaports.</p>

<p>Ukraine is one of the world's major grain producers and mainly grows and exports&nbsp;wheat, corn, and barley.</p>

<p><strong>Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-sacks-six-deputy-defence-ministers-after-new-ministers-appointment-637378">Ukraine sacks six deputy defence ministers after new minister’s appointment</a></p>

<p>Ukraine accounts for 10 per cent of the world wheat market, 15 per cent of the corn market, and 13 per cent of the barley market. With more than 50 % per cent of world trade, it is also the main player in the sunflower oil market, according to the European Commission.</p>

<p><strong>Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/freed-american-calls-on-biden-to-end-irans-vile-path-of-keeping-foreigners-imprisoned-637533">Freed American calls on Biden to end Iran’s ‘vile path’ of keeping foreigners imprisoned</a></p>

<p>According to statistics&nbsp;by the US Department of Agriculture,&nbsp;Ukraine was the world's seventh-largest producer of wheat in 2021/22 with 33 million tonnes.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine drowns Russian drones</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukraine on Tuesday said that its air defence systems downed 27 Shahed drones launched overnight in Russia's latest aerial barrage.</p>

<p>"A total of 30 attack UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) were launched... As a result of combat work, 27 Shaheds were shot down by air defence units," the Ukrainian air force said on social media.</p>

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Ukraine flagged off a vessel carrying grains from the Black Sea port, defying Russian threats of treating civilian vessels as 'potential military targets.' "The vessel Resilient Africa with 3,000 tonnes of wheat has left the port of Chornomorsk and is heading towards the Bosphorus," Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kurakov said on social media.

Ukraine flagged off a vessel carrying grains from the Black Sea port, defying Russian threats of treating civilian vessels as 'potential military targets.' "The vessel Resilient Africa with 3,000 tonnes of wheat has left the port of Chornomorsk and is heading towards the Bosphorus," Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kurakov said on social media. He said that the ship had also entered the Ukrainian port several weeks earlier through the newly-established corridor, alongside one other vessel that would soon depart for Egypt. Russia had warned of action after it unilaterally pulled out of an agreement in July that had been brokered by the United Nations and Turkey to allow maritime exports from Ukraine. Since then, Kyiv created a naval corridor that several cargo ships have used. It mainly transports vessels through the Danube River, and road and rail links into Europe. Ukraine: A major producer of grain However, due to this, the transport costs have shot up, with some European countries have balked at the consequential local grain prices, and the Danube ports can’t handle the same volume as seaports. Ukraine is one of the world's major grain producers and mainly grows and exports wheat, corn, and barley. Also read | Ukraine sacks six deputy defence ministers after new minister’s appointment Ukraine accounts for 10 per cent of the world wheat market, 15 per cent of the corn market, and 13 per cent of the barley market. With more than 50 % per cent of world trade, it is also the main player in the sunflower oil market, according to the European Commission. Also read | Freed American calls on Biden to end Iran’s ‘vile path’ of keeping foreigners imprisoned According to statistics by the US Department of Agriculture, Ukraine was the world's seventh-largest producer of wheat in 2021/22 with 33 million tonnes. Ukraine drowns Russian drones Meanwhile, Ukraine on Tuesday said that its air defence systems downed 27 Shahed drones launched overnight in Russia's latest aerial barrage. "A total of 30 attack UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) were launched... As a result of combat work, 27 Shaheds were shot down by air defence units," the Ukrainian air force said on social media. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine defies Russian threat, sets off grain vessel from Black Sea port

<p>At least two people were killed in overnight Russian airstrikes in Ukraine in the southern region of Kherson.</p>

<p>A72-year-old man and an elderly woman lost their lives, while three others were wounded in the Russian attack, Kherson region governor Oleksandr Prokudin said.</p>

<p>The missiles also struck nearby Beryslav town where four people got injured, Prokudin said.</p>

<p>"The occupiers deliberately attacked a crowded place, dropping explosives near the local bus station."</p>

<p>Odesa region governor Oleh Kiper said the Izmail district, home to Danube River ports, where grains are exported, also came under drone attack, but gave no details of any damage to port or grain infrastructure.</p>

<p>He said that 11 drones had been destroyed in attacks on the region and that an unspecified recreational facility in the small city of Vylkove had been hit. A fire there was quickly extinguished, he added.</p>

<p>Neighbouring Mykolaiv region’s governor said that the falling debris caused a fire in an unused building in the Snihurivka community, which was promptly extinguished, and a blast wave damaged nearby buildings.</p>

<p>Russia launched 24 drones at the Ukrainian southern regions of Odesa and Mykolaiv overnight, of which 18 were shot down and 17 cruise missiles were downed overnight over the Dnipropetrov’s Poltava and Khmelnytskyi regions, Ukraine's air force said in a post on Telegram.</p>

<p>It added that all of the 17 missiles were destroyed over the Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava and Khmelnytskyi regions</p>

<h2><strong>Russia says downed three Ukrainian drones </strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Russia’s defence ministry has said its forces downed three Ukrainian drones over southwestern Crimea.</p>

<p>The ministry said air defence systems destroyed one drone at about 9:30 pm on Sunday (Sept 17), an hour after it said its forces downed two Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles in the same area.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-f-35b-plane-suspected-to-be-in-air-after-pilot-safely-ejects-after-mishap-637014">US: F-35B fighter jet goes missing after pilot safely ejects</a></p>

<p>Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Moscow-installed governor of Sevastopol, the largest city in Crimea and a major Black Sea port, said debris from the downed third drone fell over farmland and no damage was done.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-detects-103-chinese-warplanes-near-island-636975">Taiwan detects 103 Chinese warplanes, asks Beijing to stop 'destructive, unilateral action'&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>Earlier, Russia’s defence ministry said air defence systems also destroyed a Ukrainian drone over the Belgorod region.</p>

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At least two people were killed in overnight Russian airstrikes in Ukraine in the southern region of Kherson. A72-year-old man and an elderly woman lost their lives, while three others were wounded in the Russian attack, Kherson region governor Oleksandr Prokudin said.

At least two people were killed in overnight Russian airstrikes in Ukraine in the southern region of Kherson. A72-year-old man and an elderly woman lost their lives, while three others were wounded in the Russian attack, Kherson region governor Oleksandr Prokudin said. The missiles also struck nearby Beryslav town where four people got injured, Prokudin said. "The occupiers deliberately attacked a crowded place, dropping explosives near the local bus station." Odesa region governor Oleh Kiper said the Izmail district, home to Danube River ports, where grains are exported, also came under drone attack, but gave no details of any damage to port or grain infrastructure. He said that 11 drones had been destroyed in attacks on the region and that an unspecified recreational facility in the small city of Vylkove had been hit. A fire there was quickly extinguished, he added. Neighbouring Mykolaiv region’s governor said that the falling debris caused a fire in an unused building in the Snihurivka community, which was promptly extinguished, and a blast wave damaged nearby buildings. Russia launched 24 drones at the Ukrainian southern regions of Odesa and Mykolaiv overnight, of which 18 were shot down and 17 cruise missiles were downed overnight over the Dnipropetrov’s Poltava and Khmelnytskyi regions, Ukraine's air force said in a post on Telegram. It added that all of the 17 missiles were destroyed over the Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava and Khmelnytskyi regions Russia says downed three Ukrainian drones Meanwhile, Russia’s defence ministry has said its forces downed three Ukrainian drones over southwestern Crimea. The ministry said air defence systems destroyed one drone at about 9:30 pm on Sunday (Sept 17), an hour after it said its forces downed two Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles in the same area. Also read | US: F-35B fighter jet goes missing after pilot safely ejects Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Moscow-installed governor of Sevastopol, the largest city in Crimea and a major Black Sea port, said debris from the downed third drone fell over farmland and no damage was done. Also read | Taiwan detects 103 Chinese warplanes, asks Beijing to stop 'destructive, unilateral action' Earlier, Russia’s defence ministry said air defence systems also destroyed a Ukrainian drone over the Belgorod region. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

At least two killed in Russian airstrikes in Ukraine

Russia's position as the top exporter has been bolstered by the country's second-straight record wheat crop, and it has also helped relieve pricing pressures caused by Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Russian wheat flood crushes global prices

A top NATO official has warned that spending more on defence does not automatically lead to greater security. Watch this report to know more.

Top NATO official calls for more private defence system

The 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly this year will discuss many topics including the war in Ukraine. It is likely to be the big topic for the second year in a row. When leaders gather at the UN General Assembly next week, many developing countries are hoping to shine a light on issues important to them including development inflation and climate change.

Zelensky expected to attend UN meet: War to be a big topic of discussion

<p>A discussion from Russian state TV in which an anchor and a lawmaker discuss the "ideal" location for a nuclear strike in Ukraine, went viral on social media across the world, stoking concerns&nbsp;of a potential nuclear attack.</p>

<p>The anchor Vladimir Solovyov and lawmaker Andrey Viktorovich Gurulyov can be heard as part of such discussion on Russian State TV. A video shared on X, formerly Twitter, by Anton Gerashchenko, an advisor to Ukraine's Ministry of Internal Affairs, captured their conversation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the video, the duo specifically suggest a specific location in Ukraine as the "perfect" spot for testing tactical nuclear weapons with a strike while also severely impacting Ukraine's counteroffensive efforts.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In the past weeks, Russian propagandists have returned to the nuclear rhetoric, which has dialed down significantly previously.<br />
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They are starting to discuss using tactical nuclear weapons and devote their whole propaganda shows to discussing small nuclear strikes. They name… <a href="https://t.co/6SpoGVRSgM">pic.twitter.com/6SpoGVRSgM</a></p>
— Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gerashchenko_en/status/1701179550871302395?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The anchor, Solovyov, in the past, has supported both the Crimean annexation and the Russian offensive in Ukraine.</p>

<p>He says that "Robotyne is now an ideal, just an ideal place to use tactical nuclear weapons," referring to a location in Zaporizhia Oblast about 635 km southeast of Kyiv.</p>

<p>Gurulyov, a former deputy commander of the Russian military's Southern Military District, agreed, describing it as "just perfect".</p>

<p>"They're all gathered there, it's perfect. And that's where the offensive grouping may bite the dust. Moreover, [this] is a perfect situation, because in this situation there's a complete absence of enemy reserves, and even with the forces we have we are quite able to advance very well, liberating the Zaporizhzhia [nuclear plant]," he continued.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-shut-down-starlink-satellite-to-thwart-ukrainian-attack-on-russian-fleet-book-claims-633593">Fearing a nuclear war, Elon Musk snipped Starlink services to thwart Ukrainian drone offensive on Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>The duo then went on to explain their rationale, highlighting the strategic significance of Robotyne in the southern sector of the front, where Ukrainian forces have been reportedly making advances.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>The discussion is a reflection of just another alarming step in the Kremlin's increasing threats of nuclear strikes against Ukraine, which have even extended to the countries in the West, including the United Kingdom and the United States.</p>

<p>Earlier, Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia's security council and a close ally of Putin raised concerns by suggesting the possibility of nuclear strikes against the US ahead of the 9/11 anniversary.</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

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A discussion from Russian state TV in which an anchor and a lawmaker discuss the "ideal" location for a nuclear strike in Ukraine, went viral on social media across the world, stoking concerns of a potential nuclear attack.

A discussion from Russian state TV in which an anchor and a lawmaker discuss the "ideal" location for a nuclear strike in Ukraine, went viral on social media across the world, stoking concerns of a potential nuclear attack. The anchor Vladimir Solovyov and lawmaker Andrey Viktorovich Gurulyov can be heard as part of such discussion on Russian State TV. A video shared on X, formerly Twitter, by Anton Gerashchenko, an advisor to Ukraine's Ministry of Internal Affairs, captured their conversation. In the video, the duo specifically suggest a specific location in Ukraine as the "perfect" spot for testing tactical nuclear weapons with a strike while also severely impacting Ukraine's counteroffensive efforts. In the past weeks, Russian propagandists have returned to the nuclear rhetoric, which has dialed down significantly previously. They are starting to discuss using tactical nuclear weapons and devote their whole propaganda shows to discussing small nuclear strikes. They name… pic.twitter.com/6SpoGVRSgM — Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) September 11, 2023 × The anchor, Solovyov, in the past, has supported both the Crimean annexation and the Russian offensive in Ukraine. He says that "Robotyne is now an ideal, just an ideal place to use tactical nuclear weapons," referring to a location in Zaporizhia Oblast about 635 km southeast of Kyiv. Gurulyov, a former deputy commander of the Russian military's Southern Military District, agreed, describing it as "just perfect". "They're all gathered there, it's perfect. And that's where the offensive grouping may bite the dust. Moreover, [this] is a perfect situation, because in this situation there's a complete absence of enemy reserves, and even with the forces we have we are quite able to advance very well, liberating the Zaporizhzhia [nuclear plant]," he continued. Also read | Fearing a nuclear war, Elon Musk snipped Starlink services to thwart Ukrainian drone offensive on Russia The duo then went on to explain their rationale, highlighting the strategic significance of Robotyne in the southern sector of the front, where Ukrainian forces have been reportedly making advances. What does it mean? The discussion is a reflection of just another alarming step in the Kremlin's increasing threats of nuclear strikes against Ukraine, which have even extended to the countries in the West, including the United Kingdom and the United States. Earlier, Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia's security council and a close ally of Putin raised concerns by suggesting the possibility of nuclear strikes against the US ahead of the 9/11 anniversary. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Video: Pro-Kremlin men discuss location of 'perfect' nuclear strike in Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin greeting North Korean leader Kim Jong Un meeting at Vostochny Cosmodrome, shaking hands.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un meets Russian President Vladimir Putin

After a sharp devaluation of the rouble highlighted Moscow's vulnerability to financial shocks from the conflict in Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin indicated that Russia is avoiding severe measures for the time being as a reaction to economic instability. Putin claimed Russia could handle the situation without imposing stricter capital restrictions or confiscating private assets at an investment gathering on Tuesday, just before his meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

Russia's Rouble roils war economy

<p>Starlink CEO Elon Musk reportedly tried to shut down Ukrainian access to its satellite communications network when Kyiv's forces were attempting to attack the Russian fleet off the Crimea coast last year, according to an excerpt from a biography written by Walter Isaacson titled <em>Elon Musk</em>.</p>

<p>Musk told the biographer that he was worried about being dragged into the war and ordered engineers to turn off the satellites as he feared that the attack would amount to “mini Pearl Harbor” and lead to a Russian nuclear retaliation.</p>

<p>According to the book, which is set to be released next week, after Musk disconnected the satellites, Ukrainian drones “lost connectivity and washed ashore harmlessly”, reported CNN.</p>

<p>“How am I in this war?” Musk told the writer, who has previously published biographies of Steve Jobs and Henry Kissinger.</p>

<p>“Starlink was not meant to be involved in wars. It was so people can watch Netflix and chill and get online for school and do good peaceful things, not drone strikes.”</p>

<h2><strong>Starlink may soon offer internet services in India</strong></h2>

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<h2><strong>Despite Ukraine's request, Musk remained adamant&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The author further claimed in his book that Ukraine’s former deputy prime minister Mykhailo Fedorov “begged” Musk to restore access to the satellites. But the billionaire denied the request, saying that the drone attack was “going too far and inviting strategic defeat.”</p>

<p>More than 20,000 Starlink terminals were donated by Musk to Ukraine after Russia destroyed much of the country’s infrastructure at the beginning of the war in February 2022.</p>

<p>Last October, Musk wrote to the Pentagon to say that it could no longer afford to continue funding the service and asked the Biden administration to cover the cost, which he estimated to be in hundreds of millions of dollars, CNN revealed at the time.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/record-breaking-rain-batters-hong-kong-and-chinese-city-shenzhen-633526">Record-breaking rain batters Hong Kong and Chinese city Shenzhen</a></p>

<p>Earlier this year, the US and European governments negotiated a deal with Musk, paying for another 100,000 Starlink satellite dishes to be sent to Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-moves-out-troops-conducts-precautionary-repositioning-of-forces-in-niger-633488">US moves out troops, conducts 'precautionary' repositioning of forces in Niger</a></p>

<p>It’s unknown whether the Tesla CEO has reconsidered his fears over nuclear war after receiving&nbsp;such a large bulk order.</p>

<h2><strong>Musk responds</strong></h2>

<p>After a user, Mario Nawfal — a self-described combination of entrepreneur, business influencer and “citizen journalist” — shared the excerpts from the book on social media platform X, Musk said that had he acceded&nbsp;to the Ukrainian government’s request, SpaceX would have faced retaliation.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to Sevastopol.<br />
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The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor.<br />
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If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and…</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1699917639043404146?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>“There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to Sevastopol. The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor. If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and conflict escalation,” he said in response to the post on X.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
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Starlink CEO Elon Musk reportedly tried to shut down Ukrainian access to its satellite communications network when Kyiv's forces were attempting to attack the Russian fleet off the Crimea coast last year, according to an excerpt from a biography written by Walter Isaacson titled Elon Musk.

Starlink CEO Elon Musk reportedly tried to shut down Ukrainian access to its satellite communications network when Kyiv's forces were attempting to attack the Russian fleet off the Crimea coast last year, according to an excerpt from a biography written by Walter Isaacson titled Elon Musk. Musk told the biographer that he was worried about being dragged into the war and ordered engineers to turn off the satellites as he feared that the attack would amount to “mini Pearl Harbor” and lead to a Russian nuclear retaliation. According to the book, which is set to be released next week, after Musk disconnected the satellites, Ukrainian drones “lost connectivity and washed ashore harmlessly”, reported CNN. “How am I in this war?” Musk told the writer, who has previously published biographies of Steve Jobs and Henry Kissinger. “Starlink was not meant to be involved in wars. It was so people can watch Netflix and chill and get online for school and do good peaceful things, not drone strikes.” Starlink may soon offer internet services in India Despite Ukraine's request, Musk remained adamant The author further claimed in his book that Ukraine’s former deputy prime minister Mykhailo Fedorov “begged” Musk to restore access to the satellites. But the billionaire denied the request, saying that the drone attack was “going too far and inviting strategic defeat.” More than 20,000 Starlink terminals were donated by Musk to Ukraine after Russia destroyed much of the country’s infrastructure at the beginning of the war in February 2022. Last October, Musk wrote to the Pentagon to say that it could no longer afford to continue funding the service and asked the Biden administration to cover the cost, which he estimated to be in hundreds of millions of dollars, CNN revealed at the time. Also read | Record-breaking rain batters Hong Kong and Chinese city Shenzhen Earlier this year, the US and European governments negotiated a deal with Musk, paying for another 100,000 Starlink satellite dishes to be sent to Ukraine. Also read | US moves out troops, conducts 'precautionary' repositioning of forces in Niger It’s unknown whether the Tesla CEO has reconsidered his fears over nuclear war after receiving such a large bulk order. Musk responds After a user, Mario Nawfal — a self-described combination of entrepreneur, business influencer and “citizen journalist” — shared the excerpts from the book on social media platform X, Musk said that had he acceded to the Ukrainian government’s request, SpaceX would have faced retaliation. There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to Sevastopol. The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor. If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and… — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) September 7, 2023 × “There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to Sevastopol. The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor. If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and conflict escalation,” he said in response to the post on X. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Fearing a nuclear war, Elon Musk snipped Starlink services to thwart Ukrainian drone offensive on Russia

<p>Ukraine on Friday (Sept. 8) slammed Russia for conducting “sham elections” in Crimea, saying that it was a futile exercise and would have no legal standing.</p>

<p>Russia is holding elections in territories now controlled by it but that originally belong to Ukraine, including Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson.</p>

<p>Ukrainian foreign ministry said in a statement that the elections “grossly violate the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine” as well as international law.</p>

<p>“Russia’s sham elections in the temporarily occupied territories are null and void. They will not have any legal consequences and will not lead to a change in the status of the Ukrainian territories captured by the Russian army,” the statement added.</p>

<h2><strong>Kyiv demands support from the international community</strong></h2>

<p>Along with denouncing elections in Crimea and occupied territories, Ukraine also urged the international community to take note of the developments and not to recognise the results.</p>

<p>On Thursday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken condemned the “sham elections”, saying that they were “illegitimate”.<br />
<br />
Responding to Blinken’s allegations, the Russian embassy in the US said that the US was meddling in Russia’s internal affairs.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia- Ukraine war: Sergei Surovikin 'seen in first photo' since Wagner mutiny</strong></p>

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<p>Blinken had earlier said that Russia’s actions went “against UN Charter principles like respect for state sovereignty and territorial integrity, which underpin global security and stability.”</p>

<p>He also added that the US will never recognise Russia’s claims to any of Ukraine’s sovereign territory.</p>

<h2><strong>More about elections</strong></h2>

<p>Russia is conducting elections in areas of Ukraine it annexed last year. In the four regions, governors installed by the Kremlin are seeking full terms of office in the polls, which will conclude on September&nbsp;10.</p>

<p>Some residents showed up for the polls on Thursday, and flashed their Russian passports to officials deployed at the polling booths. Many people have fled the area fearing massive violence and brutality.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The exiled mayor of Mariupol, now controlled by Russia, was quoted as saying by Reuters that the elections were taking place with no voter lists and candidate lists.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-claims-russian-strike-kills-at-least-16-in-east-ukraine-market-632988"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Zelensky claims Russian strike kills at least 17 in east Ukraine market</strong></a></p>

<p>"It is clear that there is no trust from the people toward this process, which should be called a sham election," he said in an interview in&nbsp;Kyiv, adding that he expected a repeat of what he said had happened in annexation votes last year.</p>

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Ukraine on Friday (Sept. 8) slammed Russia for conducting “sham elections” in Crimea, saying that it was a futile exercise and would have no legal standing. Russia is holding elections in territories now controlled by it but that originally belong to Ukraine, including Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson.

Ukraine on Friday (Sept. 8) slammed Russia for conducting “sham elections” in Crimea, saying that it was a futile exercise and would have no legal standing. Russia is holding elections in territories now controlled by it but that originally belong to Ukraine, including Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson. Ukrainian foreign ministry said in a statement that the elections “grossly violate the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine” as well as international law. “Russia’s sham elections in the temporarily occupied territories are null and void. They will not have any legal consequences and will not lead to a change in the status of the Ukrainian territories captured by the Russian army,” the statement added. Kyiv demands support from the international community Along with denouncing elections in Crimea and occupied territories, Ukraine also urged the international community to take note of the developments and not to recognise the results. On Thursday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken condemned the “sham elections”, saying that they were “illegitimate”. Responding to Blinken’s allegations, the Russian embassy in the US said that the US was meddling in Russia’s internal affairs. Watch: Russia- Ukraine war: Sergei Surovikin 'seen in first photo' since Wagner mutiny × Blinken had earlier said that Russia’s actions went “against UN Charter principles like respect for state sovereignty and territorial integrity, which underpin global security and stability.” He also added that the US will never recognise Russia’s claims to any of Ukraine’s sovereign territory. More about elections Russia is conducting elections in areas of Ukraine it annexed last year. In the four regions, governors installed by the Kremlin are seeking full terms of office in the polls, which will conclude on September 10. Some residents showed up for the polls on Thursday, and flashed their Russian passports to officials deployed at the polling booths. Many people have fled the area fearing massive violence and brutality. The exiled mayor of Mariupol, now controlled by Russia, was quoted as saying by Reuters that the elections were taking place with no voter lists and candidate lists. Also read: Zelensky claims Russian strike kills at least 17 in east Ukraine market "It is clear that there is no trust from the people toward this process, which should be called a sham election," he said in an interview in Kyiv, adding that he expected a repeat of what he said had happened in annexation votes last year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine and US condemn ‘sham elections’ in Crimea, Russia decries ‘meddling’

<p>Russia has covered their combat aircraft with car tyres in a bid to blunt any possible Ukrainian drone attacks in their military fields, a move that has been described as ‘bizarre’ and ‘unusual’.</p>

<p>The development was confirmed by CNN which cited satellite images taken by Maxar Technologies purportedly showing two Tu-95 strategic bombers with car tires on top of the airframes at the Engels Airbase, deep inside Russia.</p>

<p>Engels is one of Russia’s crucial airbases, serving as the home base for the 121st and 184th Heavy Bomber Aviation Regiments. It is reportedly responsible for operating the Russian Aerospace Forces’ Tu-160M Blackjack and Tu-95M Bear strategic bombers, respectively.</p>

<p>It is believed that increased drone and missile attacks by Ukraine forced Russia to this unusual approach.</p>

<p>On December 5, 2022, the base faced an attack in the early hours, in which two Tu-95s were damaged. On December 26, 2022, another attack on the Engels airbase claimed the lives of three Russian Armed Forces officers.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Brace yourselves, because russians have once again showcased unparalleled innovation. What you are looking at is a satellite image featuring a TU-95 strategic bomber covered with car tires. According to them, this should protect strategic bombers from drones <a href="https://t.co/ZjDDzRPOWf">pic.twitter.com/ZjDDzRPOWf</a></p>
— Tatarigami_UA (@Tatarigami_UA) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tatarigami_UA/status/1698302027552436366?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Crude attempt to deter attacks</strong></h2>

<p>Experts argue that this is just a crude attempt at not only adding an extra layer of protection but also to reduce the visibility of the aircraft at night.</p>

<p>“It may reduce the thermal signature for exposed strategic aviation assets placed on airfield aprons, but they will still be observable under infrared cameras,” Francisco Serra-Martins of drone manufacturer One Way Aerospace told CNN.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian forces have been using drones manufactured by One Way Aerospace.</p>

<p>Echoing similar sentiments, another expert argued that it may have little to no impact.</p>

<p>“While it seems pretty goofy, they seem to be trying to do the best they can to up-armour the planes that are otherwise sitting ducks. Whether it works depends on what the warhead is on the missile/drone,” Steffan Watkins, an open-source research consultant who tracks aircraft and ships, told CNN.</p>

<p>A NATO military official, on the condition of anonymity, confirmed to CNN that the alliance was aware of this use of tyres.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-tests-covid-negative-all-set-to-visit-india-for-g20-632768">US President Joe Biden tests Covid negative, all set to visit India on Sept 7 for G20 Summit</a></p>

<p>“We believe it’s meant to protect against drones,” the official told CNN. “We don’t know if this will have any effect.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigerian-president-might-lose-power-even-before-g20-convenes-in-delhi-632886">Nigerian president might lose power even before G20 convenes in Delhi</a></p>

<p>Notably, this is not the first time that Russia resorted to such an unconventional method to safeguard its military assets against Ukrainian attacks.</p>

<p>In one instance, the Russian Navy applied paint&nbsp;to the front and rear sections of its Admiral Grigorovich-class frigates due to the persistent maritime drone attacks on these warships while anchored in the harbour in the Black Sea.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russia has covered their combat aircraft with car tyres in a bid to blunt any possible Ukrainian drone attacks in their military fields, a move that has been described as ‘bizarre’ and ‘unusual’.

Russia has covered their combat aircraft with car tyres in a bid to blunt any possible Ukrainian drone attacks in their military fields, a move that has been described as ‘bizarre’ and ‘unusual’. The development was confirmed by CNN which cited satellite images taken by Maxar Technologies purportedly showing two Tu-95 strategic bombers with car tires on top of the airframes at the Engels Airbase, deep inside Russia. Engels is one of Russia’s crucial airbases, serving as the home base for the 121st and 184th Heavy Bomber Aviation Regiments. It is reportedly responsible for operating the Russian Aerospace Forces’ Tu-160M Blackjack and Tu-95M Bear strategic bombers, respectively. It is believed that increased drone and missile attacks by Ukraine forced Russia to this unusual approach. On December 5, 2022, the base faced an attack in the early hours, in which two Tu-95s were damaged. On December 26, 2022, another attack on the Engels airbase claimed the lives of three Russian Armed Forces officers. Brace yourselves, because russians have once again showcased unparalleled innovation. What you are looking at is a satellite image featuring a TU-95 strategic bomber covered with car tires. According to them, this should protect strategic bombers from drones pic.twitter.com/ZjDDzRPOWf — Tatarigami_UA (@Tatarigami_UA) September 3, 2023 × Crude attempt to deter attacks Experts argue that this is just a crude attempt at not only adding an extra layer of protection but also to reduce the visibility of the aircraft at night. “It may reduce the thermal signature for exposed strategic aviation assets placed on airfield aprons, but they will still be observable under infrared cameras,” Francisco Serra-Martins of drone manufacturer One Way Aerospace told CNN. The Ukrainian forces have been using drones manufactured by One Way Aerospace. Echoing similar sentiments, another expert argued that it may have little to no impact. “While it seems pretty goofy, they seem to be trying to do the best they can to up-armour the planes that are otherwise sitting ducks. Whether it works depends on what the warhead is on the missile/drone,” Steffan Watkins, an open-source research consultant who tracks aircraft and ships, told CNN. A NATO military official, on the condition of anonymity, confirmed to CNN that the alliance was aware of this use of tyres. Also read | US President Joe Biden tests Covid negative, all set to visit India on Sept 7 for G20 Summit “We believe it’s meant to protect against drones,” the official told CNN. “We don’t know if this will have any effect.” Also read | Nigerian president might lose power even before G20 convenes in Delhi Notably, this is not the first time that Russia resorted to such an unconventional method to safeguard its military assets against Ukrainian attacks. In one instance, the Russian Navy applied paint to the front and rear sections of its Admiral Grigorovich-class frigates due to the persistent maritime drone attacks on these warships while anchored in the harbour in the Black Sea. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia uses car tyres to cover military aircraft to deter Ukrainian drone attacks: Report

<p>Moscow has been avoiding recruiting Russians to boost its armed forces for the Ukrainian war and is instead recruiting Central Asian migrants and neighbouring countries as soldiers, British intelligence has claimed.</p>

<p>“There are at least 6 million migrants from Central Asia in Russia, which the Kremlin likely sees as potential recruits,” the Defence Ministry said on Sunday (Sept 3) in its latest intelligence update.</p>

<p>The ministry said that Russia wants to avoid another unpopular general mobilisation at all costs before the presidential elections next year.</p>

<p>This move "allows the Kremlin to acquire additional personnel for its war effort in the face of mounting casualties" and "avoid further unpopular domestic mobilization measures in the run-up to the 2024 presidential elections," according to the Ministry.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia looking to plug rising casualties&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Though Russia hasn’t provided any official casualty numbers, US officials last month claimed that Russia's military casualties are nearing 300,000, of which as many as 120,000 are deaths and up to 180,000 are injuries.</p>

<p>Since late June, Russia reportedly put up military advertisements targeting Armenian and Kazakhstani migrants, mainly ethnic Russians from the Kostanay region, offering down payments of 45,000 rubles ($5,140) and starting salaries of 190,000 rubles ($1,973).</p>

<p>Moreover, they are being offered "fast-track citizenship" if they join the fight in Ukraine, with salaries of up to $4,160 on the cards.</p>

<p>There are upwards of six million Central Asian migrants in Russia, all of whom are "potential recruits" in the Kremlin's eyes, the UK MoD said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-launches-fresh-attacks-on-odesa-port-region-ukraine-fights-back-632124">Russia launches fresh attacks on Odesa port region, Ukraine fights back</a></p>

<p>“Exploiting foreign nationals allows the Kremlin to acquire additional personnel for its war effort in the face of increasing losses,” the British Ministry of Defence statement said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-investigation-reveals-no-arms-deal-with-russia-as-claimed-by-us-632156">South Africa: Investigation reveals no arms deal with Russia as claimed by US</a></p>

<p>The British Ministry of Defence releases daily updates on the progress of the Russian war in Ukraine since the start of the conflict, which has been chastised by Moscow accusing London of spreading disinformation.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia continues hiring spree&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>On Sunday, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev said that Moscow recruited some 280,000 people into the army since the start of the year.</p>

<p>“According to data from the Ministry of Defence, 280,000 people have joined the Russian army on contracts from January 1,” Medvedev, the deputy chair of the Russian Security Council said, according to the Tass news agency.</p>

<p>“Part of them were in the reserves, part of them volunteers and other categories,” he added, during a visit to the Far Eastern Russian island of Sakhalin.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

<p><em><strong>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</strong></em></p>

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Moscow has been avoiding recruiting Russians to boost its armed forces for the Ukrainian war and is instead recruiting Central Asian migrants and neighbouring countries as soldiers, British intelligence has claimed.

Moscow has been avoiding recruiting Russians to boost its armed forces for the Ukrainian war and is instead recruiting Central Asian migrants and neighbouring countries as soldiers, British intelligence has claimed. “There are at least 6 million migrants from Central Asia in Russia, which the Kremlin likely sees as potential recruits,” the Defence Ministry said on Sunday (Sept 3) in its latest intelligence update. The ministry said that Russia wants to avoid another unpopular general mobilisation at all costs before the presidential elections next year. This move "allows the Kremlin to acquire additional personnel for its war effort in the face of mounting casualties" and "avoid further unpopular domestic mobilization measures in the run-up to the 2024 presidential elections," according to the Ministry. Russia looking to plug rising casualties Though Russia hasn’t provided any official casualty numbers, US officials last month claimed that Russia's military casualties are nearing 300,000, of which as many as 120,000 are deaths and up to 180,000 are injuries. Since late June, Russia reportedly put up military advertisements targeting Armenian and Kazakhstani migrants, mainly ethnic Russians from the Kostanay region, offering down payments of 45,000 rubles ($5,140) and starting salaries of 190,000 rubles ($1,973). Moreover, they are being offered "fast-track citizenship" if they join the fight in Ukraine, with salaries of up to $4,160 on the cards. There are upwards of six million Central Asian migrants in Russia, all of whom are "potential recruits" in the Kremlin's eyes, the UK MoD said. Also read | Russia launches fresh attacks on Odesa port region, Ukraine fights back “Exploiting foreign nationals allows the Kremlin to acquire additional personnel for its war effort in the face of increasing losses,” the British Ministry of Defence statement said. Also read | South Africa: Investigation reveals no arms deal with Russia as claimed by US The British Ministry of Defence releases daily updates on the progress of the Russian war in Ukraine since the start of the conflict, which has been chastised by Moscow accusing London of spreading disinformation. Russia continues hiring spree On Sunday, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev said that Moscow recruited some 280,000 people into the army since the start of the year. “According to data from the Ministry of Defence, 280,000 people have joined the Russian army on contracts from January 1,” Medvedev, the deputy chair of the Russian Security Council said, according to the Tass news agency. “Part of them were in the reserves, part of them volunteers and other categories,” he added, during a visit to the Far Eastern Russian island of Sakhalin. (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 WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia hiring Central Asian migrants as soldiers to fight in Ukraine War: UK intel

<p>South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said Sunday (Sept. 3) that his nation didn’t send weapons to Russia, citing the results of an independent inquiry led by a retired judge.</p>

<p>Earlier in May, the US ambassador to South Africa Reuben Brigety set the cat among the pigeons by claiming that a Russian cargo ship had docked near Cape Town in December 2022 and loaded weapons to be taken back home.</p>

<p>The accusations sparked a diplomatic row between the US and South Africa and also questioned South Africa’s neutrality in the Russia-Ukraine war.</p>

<h2><strong>Results of the investigation</strong></h2>

<p>In his statement, Ramaphosa said the accusations had several ramifications for South Africa’s global reputation. “The panel found that there was no evidence to support the claim that the ship transported weapons from South Africa destined for Russia," he said in the address to the nation.</p>

<p>"No permit was issued for the export of arms and no arms were exported," he said, adding that the baseless accusations also had a damaging impact on the South African economy.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;South African Police: 16 men and 2 women suspected robbers killed in shootout</strong></p>

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<p>"When all matters are considered, none of the allegations made about the supply of weapons to Russia have proven to be true," Ramaphosa said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/south-african-government-refutes-allegations-of-pm-modi-snub-amid-brics-summit-628477"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;South African govt refutes media report of snub to PM Narendra Modi amid BRICS summit</strong></a></p>

<p>"None of the persons who made these allegations could provide any evidence to support the claims that had been levelled against our country."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Why did the Russian ship dock&nbsp;near Cape Town?</strong></h2>

<p>Ramaphosa mentioned that the vessel had arrived at the naval base to deliver equipment that had been purchased for the South African National Defence Force back in 2018&nbsp;through South Africa's arms procurement entity, Armscor.</p>

<p>He explained that he couldn't disclose the details about the specific equipment unloaded due to concerns that such information might jeopardise critical military missions and endanger the lives of South African soldiers.</p>

<p>In response to the allegations levelled in May, South African authorities had swiftly refuted the accusations, prompting Ramaphosa to initiate an independent inquiry headed by a retired judge.</p>

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South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said Sunday (Sept. 3) that his nation didn’t send weapons to Russia, citing the results of an independent inquiry led by a retired judge.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said Sunday (Sept. 3) that his nation didn’t send weapons to Russia, citing the results of an independent inquiry led by a retired judge. Earlier in May, the US ambassador to South Africa Reuben Brigety set the cat among the pigeons by claiming that a Russian cargo ship had docked near Cape Town in December 2022 and loaded weapons to be taken back home. The accusations sparked a diplomatic row between the US and South Africa and also questioned South Africa’s neutrality in the Russia-Ukraine war. Results of the investigation In his statement, Ramaphosa said the accusations had several ramifications for South Africa’s global reputation. “The panel found that there was no evidence to support the claim that the ship transported weapons from South Africa destined for Russia," he said in the address to the nation. "No permit was issued for the export of arms and no arms were exported," he said, adding that the baseless accusations also had a damaging impact on the South African economy. Watch: South African Police: 16 men and 2 women suspected robbers killed in shootout × "When all matters are considered, none of the allegations made about the supply of weapons to Russia have proven to be true," Ramaphosa said. Also read: South African govt refutes media report of snub to PM Narendra Modi amid BRICS summit "None of the persons who made these allegations could provide any evidence to support the claims that had been levelled against our country." Why did the Russian ship dock near Cape Town? Ramaphosa mentioned that the vessel had arrived at the naval base to deliver equipment that had been purchased for the South African National Defence Force back in 2018 through South Africa's arms procurement entity, Armscor. He explained that he couldn't disclose the details about the specific equipment unloaded due to concerns that such information might jeopardise critical military missions and endanger the lives of South African soldiers. In response to the allegations levelled in May, South African authorities had swiftly refuted the accusations, prompting Ramaphosa to initiate an independent inquiry headed by a retired judge. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

South Africa: Investigation reveals no arms deal with Russia as claimed by US

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