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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

North Korea leader Kim Jong-un and Russia's Minister of Natural Resources and Ecology, Alexander Kozlov, met in Pyongyang on Monday (Nov 18), as the two nations continue to deepen ties. State-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that discussions focused on "cooperation in trade, economy, science and technology."

In parallel, a delegation from a Russian military academy also arrived in the North Korean capital, although, as per AFP, their agenda was shrouded in secrecy.&nbsp;

These visits by Russian delegations come as both countries recently ratified a strategic partnership treaty.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjc9oaSweeJAxXuzzgGHSBaGFoQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-incredibly-concerned-by-north-korea-troops-in-russia-confirms-10000-soldiers-have-joined-ukraine-war-775668" jsname="YKoRaf" rel="noopener" target="_blank">US 'incredibly concerned' by North Korea troops in Russia, confirms 10,000 soldiers have joined Ukraine war</a>

<h2>Russia-North Korea ties</h2>

During his meeting with Kozlov, Kim declared that ties between the two nations "have reached a new strategic level".&nbsp;

Noting the new treaty between his nation and Moscow, the North Korean leader said that the meeting with Kozlov was aimed at "further promoting" trade as well as "scientific and technological exchange."

<h2>North Korea and Ukraine War &nbsp;</h2>

Claims by the US and South Korea allege that North Korea has sent over 10,000 troops to bolster Russia's efforts in Ukraine, with analysts suggesting Pyongyang is leveraging the conflict to secure advanced weaponry and battlefield experience for its military. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjc9oaSweeJAxXuzzgGHSBaGFoQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-ratifies-historic-defence-pact-with-russia-strengthening-military-ties-775499" jsname="YKoRaf" rel="noopener" target="_blank">North Korea ratifies historic defence pact with Russia, strengthening military ties</a> 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Experts also suggest that North Korea may be recalibrating its foreign policy using the Ukraine conflict. While Russia Traditionally reliant on China, Pyongyang is now positioning itself as a key player in Moscow's wartime economy, supplying manpower, weapons, and potentially even labour. &nbsp;

Experts speculate that this evolving relationship may grant North Korea access to Russia's vast reserves of oil, gas, and other natural resources.&nbsp;

Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui recently reinforced this alliance during her visit to Moscow, vowing her country would "stand firmly by our Russian comrades until victory day" and labelling Russia's campaign in Ukraine a "sacred struggle".

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea leader Kim Jong-un and Russia's Minister of Natural Resources and Ecology, Alexander Kozlov, met in Pyongyang on Monday (Nov 18), as the two nations continue to deepen ties.

North Korea leader Kim Jong-un and Russia's Minister of Natural Resources and Ecology, Alexander Kozlov, met in Pyongyang on Monday (Nov 18), as the two nations continue to deepen ties. State-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that discussions focused on "cooperation in trade, economy, science and technology." In parallel, a delegation from a Russian military academy also arrived in the North Korean capital, although, as per AFP, their agenda was shrouded in secrecy. These visits by Russian delegations come as both countries recently ratified a strategic partnership treaty. Also read | US 'incredibly concerned' by North Korea troops in Russia, confirms 10,000 soldiers have joined Ukraine war Russia-North Korea ties During his meeting with Kozlov, Kim declared that ties between the two nations "have reached a new strategic level". Noting the new treaty between his nation and Moscow, the North Korean leader said that the meeting with Kozlov was aimed at "further promoting" trade as well as "scientific and technological exchange." North Korea and Ukraine War Claims by the US and South Korea allege that North Korea has sent over 10,000 troops to bolster Russia's efforts in Ukraine, with analysts suggesting Pyongyang is leveraging the conflict to secure advanced weaponry and battlefield experience for its military. Also read | North Korea ratifies historic defence pact with Russia, strengthening military ties Experts also suggest that North Korea may be recalibrating its foreign policy using the Ukraine conflict. While Russia Traditionally reliant on China, Pyongyang is now positioning itself as a key player in Moscow's wartime economy, supplying manpower, weapons, and potentially even labour. Experts speculate that this evolving relationship may grant North Korea access to Russia's vast reserves of oil, gas, and other natural resources. Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui recently reinforced this alliance during her visit to Moscow, vowing her country would "stand firmly by our Russian comrades until victory day" and labelling Russia's campaign in Ukraine a "sacred struggle". (With inputs from agencies)

Kim Jong-un hails 'strategic level' partnership as Russian delegations visit North Korea

Russia on Sunday (Nov 17) launched one of the largest air strikes on Ukraine, which as per Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky consisted of 210 missiles and drones, all allegedly targeting civilian infrastructure.

Taking to X, Zelensky said,&nbsp;"This morning began with one of the largest Russian strikes on Ukraine. 210 missiles and drones, including aeroballistic and hypersonic missiles, as well as dozens of Shahed drones, were launched. All of them targeted civilian infrastructure—critical facilities like power plants and transformers."

Ukrainian officials have described the attack as one of the largest since the war began. The attack consisted of 120 missiles and 90 drones, including advanced aeroballistic and hypersonic missiles, reports AFP. The assault forced power cuts in Kyiv and two eastern regions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russia-targets-ukraine-with-one-of-the-largest-aerial-attacks-says-kyiv-776828">Ukraine war: Russia targets Ukraine with one of the largest aerial attacks, says Kyiv</a>

Slamming Russian President Vladimir Putin, Zelensky added that he "drowns the world in his rhetoric, but his only true message is written in destruction and death, delivered through every missile and drone Russia sends."

<h2>Civilian tragedy in Sumy &nbsp;</h2>

In Ukraine's northeastern region of Sumy, on Sunday, a Russian missile strike on a multi-story residential building killed 10 people, including two children, and injured 52 others.

Calling attention to the attack, Zelensky in his X post said: "This evening, a Russian missile hit a nine-story residential building. There are confirmed fatalities, including children. Many people are wounded."

The president of the war-torn nation added that while emergency services are on the scene and are doing everything to save lives, "what is still missing—and desperately needed—is the principled reaction of the world to this evil."

He urged global leaders meeting at the G20 Summit to act decisively and said: "These days, leaders of the G20 are meeting. The entire world needs them not to turn a blind eye to Russia’s continued terror. Only when the world reacts decisively can the situation change. Russia has involved North Korea in its war—and the reaction has been weak."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-zelensky-says-conflict-will-end-sooner-once-trump-becomes-us-president-776658">Ukraine war: Zelensky says conflict will 'end sooner' once Trump becomes US president</a>

With the Ukraine war about to complete 1,000 days, Zelensky noted: "Russia has continued its terror for nearly 1,000 days—and the world’s decisions are still delayed." &nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This morning began with one of the largest Russian strikes on Ukraine. 210 missiles and drones, including aeroballistic and hypersonic missiles, as well as dozens of Shahed drones, were launched. All of them targeted civilian infrastructure—critical facilities like power plants… <a href="https://t.co/PriNcqjJ8C">pic.twitter.com/PriNcqjJ8C</a>
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1858247147537199168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Global outcry &nbsp;</h2>

The international community swiftly condemned the attacks. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, arriving in Brazil for the G20 Summit, called the assault "horrible" and reaffirmed the bloc’s unwavering support for Ukraine, especially in energy recovery efforts. &nbsp;

"We have seen the horrible, horrible attacks this night of Russia against Ukraine, destroying civil energy infrastructure and costing an incredible amount of human lives," she told Brazil's Globo News in an interview.

Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, called the attack on "energy and critical civilian infrastructure" a violation of international humanitarian law.

"Directing attacks against civilians and civilian objects is prohibited by international humanitarian law. Any such attacks are unacceptable and must end immediately."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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

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

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

The United States on Tuesday (Nov 12) expressed concern over North Korea's decision to supply troops to Russia “to continue their brutal war against Ukraine”.

During a daily press briefing, State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel confirmed that thousands of North Korean troops in Russia have started “engaging in combat operations” alongside Russian forces on the Ukraine border.

This comes as Russia and North Korea both ratified a historic defence pact, deepening their mutual support and military cooperation. This treaty would see the two nations provide each other military support “without delay” if either nation comes under attack.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-ratifies-historic-defence-pact-with-russia-strengthening-military-ties-775499">North Korea ratifies historic defence pact with Russia, strengthening military ties</a>

<h2>US concerned by Russia-North Korea's deepening ties</h2>

When asked about Russian President Vladimir Putin's rationalisation of the dispatch of North Korean troops by signing a military treaty, Patel said, “We are incredibly concerned by Russia’s decision to turn to the DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea — North Korea's official name) to supply soldiers to continue their brutal war against Ukraine”.

“Today I can confirm that over 10,000 DPRK soldiers have been sent to eastern Russia, and most of them have moved to the far western Kursk Oblast, where they have begun engaging in combat operations with Russian forces,” he said.

The State Department spokesperson further revealed that the Russian forces have trained their North Korean counterparts in “UAV and basic infantry operations, including trench clearing, which are critical skills for frontline operations”.

“The United States is consulting closely with our allies and partners and other countries in the region on the implications of this, on these developments,” he added.

<div>
Also read | <a class="WlydOe" data-sb="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-and-north-korea-deeen-ties-with-mutual-defence-treaty-774921&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj1jqmItNaJAxXlTGwGHUqSM0EQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE&amp;usg=AOvVaw13wvDdiP9nGdXBKhF9Vrzk" data-ved="2ahUKEwj1jqmItNaJAxXlTGwGHUqSM0EQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-and-north-korea-deeen-ties-with-mutual-defence-treaty-774921" jsname="YKoRaf">Russia and North Korea deepen ties with mutual defence treaty</a>
</div>

<h2>Denuclearisation of North Korea</h2>

When asked about Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov's statement that the concept of North Korea’s denuclearisation is already a closed issue, Patel said “complete denuclearisation” of the Korean Peninsula remains the “cornerstone” of the US approach to the DPRK.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Tuesday (Nov 12) expressed concern over North Korea's decision to supply troops to Russia “to continue their brutal war against Ukraine”. During a daily press briefing, State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel confirmed that thousands of North Korean troops in Russia have started “engaging in combat operations” alongside Russian forces on the Ukraine border.

The United States on Tuesday (Nov 12) expressed concern over North Korea's decision to supply troops to Russia “to continue their brutal war against Ukraine”. During a daily press briefing, State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel confirmed that thousands of North Korean troops in Russia have started “engaging in combat operations” alongside Russian forces on the Ukraine border. This comes as Russia and North Korea both ratified a historic defence pact, deepening their mutual support and military cooperation. This treaty would see the two nations provide each other military support “without delay” if either nation comes under attack. Also read | North Korea ratifies historic defence pact with Russia, strengthening military ties US concerned by Russia-North Korea's deepening ties When asked about Russian President Vladimir Putin's rationalisation of the dispatch of North Korean troops by signing a military treaty, Patel said, “We are incredibly concerned by Russia’s decision to turn to the DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea — North Korea's official name) to supply soldiers to continue their brutal war against Ukraine”. “Today I can confirm that over 10,000 DPRK soldiers have been sent to eastern Russia, and most of them have moved to the far western Kursk Oblast, where they have begun engaging in combat operations with Russian forces,” he said. The State Department spokesperson further revealed that the Russian forces have trained their North Korean counterparts in “UAV and basic infantry operations, including trench clearing, which are critical skills for frontline operations”. “The United States is consulting closely with our allies and partners and other countries in the region on the implications of this, on these developments,” he added. Also read | Russia and North Korea deepen ties with mutual defence treaty Denuclearisation of North Korea When asked about Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov's statement that the concept of North Korea’s denuclearisation is already a closed issue, Patel said “complete denuclearisation” of the Korean Peninsula remains the “cornerstone” of the US approach to the DPRK. (With inputs from agencies)

US 'incredibly concerned' by North Korea troops in Russia, confirms 10,000 soldiers have joined Ukraine war

Russia on Wednesday (Nov 13) escalated its assault on Ukraine, launching a barrage of drones and missiles, marking its first combined aerial attack on the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv in over two months.

This escalation comes amid critical developments on the battlefield, with Russian forces advancing in eastern Ukraine and fresh concerns about the future of American aid to Kyiv following Republican candidate Donald Trump’s election victory.

<h2>Moscow's attack</h2>

The pre-dawn barrage sent explosions echoing across Kyiv and saw residents seeking shelter in an underground metro station.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-incredibly-concerned-by-north-korea-troops-in-russia-confirms-10000-soldiers-have-joined-ukraine-war-775668">US 'incredibly concerned' by North Korea troops in Russia, confirms 10,000 soldiers have joined Ukraine war</a>

Kyiv officials reported one injury in the suburb of Brovary, where debris from a downed drone struck a man. Emergency crews released images of firefighters extinguishing flames at various impact sites.

Simultaneously, the southern Ukrainian region of Kherson, which Russia claims as part of its territory, faced a separate drone attack, resulting in the death of a 52-year-old woman, according to the region's governor. Air raid alarms in Kyiv began sounding around 04:30 GMT, warning of an impending missile strike.

“As missiles were approaching Kyiv, the enemy simultaneously launched a ballistic missile attack on the capital. The enemy attack ended with another drone strike,” said the city authorities.

Just a day earlier, a Russian strike on President Volodymyr Zelensky’s hometown claimed the lives of a young mother and her three children.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-un-official-describes-gaza-as-wasteland-of-rubble-says-civilians-face-daily-cruelty-at-israels-hands-775770">Top UN official describes Gaza as 'wasteland of rubble' says civilians face 'daily cruelty' at Israel's hands</a>

Before that, last week, both Russia and Ukraine launched record overnight drone strikes against each other.

Ukraine, for months, has been urgently calling for more air defence systems from Western allies to counter these increasingly aggressive attacks by Russia. However, now with Trump's win in the United States the aid which Kyiv has been receiving from the US is in peril, as the president-elect has been known to call the assistance a drain on American resources.

(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&nbsp;and&nbsp;videos.

Russia on Wednesday (Nov 13) escalated its assault on Ukraine, launching a barrage of drones and missiles, marking its first combined aerial attack on the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv in over two months.

Russia on Wednesday (Nov 13) escalated its assault on Ukraine, launching a barrage of drones and missiles, marking its first combined aerial attack on the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv in over two months. This escalation comes amid critical developments on the battlefield, with Russian forces advancing in eastern Ukraine and fresh concerns about the future of American aid to Kyiv following Republican candidate Donald Trump’s election victory. Moscow's attack The pre-dawn barrage sent explosions echoing across Kyiv and saw residents seeking shelter in an underground metro station. Also read | US 'incredibly concerned' by North Korea troops in Russia, confirms 10,000 soldiers have joined Ukraine war Kyiv officials reported one injury in the suburb of Brovary, where debris from a downed drone struck a man. Emergency crews released images of firefighters extinguishing flames at various impact sites. Simultaneously, the southern Ukrainian region of Kherson, which Russia claims as part of its territory, faced a separate drone attack, resulting in the death of a 52-year-old woman, according to the region's governor. Air raid alarms in Kyiv began sounding around 04:30 GMT, warning of an impending missile strike. “As missiles were approaching Kyiv, the enemy simultaneously launched a ballistic missile attack on the capital. The enemy attack ended with another drone strike,” said the city authorities. Just a day earlier, a Russian strike on President Volodymyr Zelensky’s hometown claimed the lives of a young mother and her three children. Also read | Top UN official describes Gaza as 'wasteland of rubble' says civilians face 'daily cruelty' at Israel's hands Before that, last week, both Russia and Ukraine launched record overnight drone strikes against each other. Ukraine, for months, has been urgently calling for more air defence systems from Western allies to counter these increasingly aggressive attacks by Russia. However, now with Trump's win in the United States the aid which Kyiv has been receiving from the US is in peril, as the president-elect has been known to call the assistance a drain on American resources. (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.

Russia escalates attack on Ukraine, hits Kyiv with major drone and missile strikes

Russia passed a controversial legislation banning "Western propaganda" of choosing not to have children on Tuesday (Nov 12).&nbsp;

Calling the decision of not having children a "Western liberal idea", members of Russian parliament&nbsp;Duma&nbsp;passed the third and final draft of the legislation.&nbsp;

The ban comes as an effort of Moscow to reverse the demographic slump in the country accentuated by its military offensive on Ukraine. Russia is currently facing an ageing population and low birth rates that are a threat to its economic future.

The bill would apply to materials online, in media, advertising and in films that promote "rejection of childbearing," according to a report by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Calling the advertisements on birth control "destructive content," MPs in the parliament said the bill targets "propaganda" that promotes a "conscious" rejection of having children.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-incredibly-concerned-by-north-korea-troops-in-russia-confirms-10000-soldiers-have-joined-ukraine-war-775668">US 'incredibly concerned' by North Korea troops in Russia, confirms 10,000 soldiers have joined Ukraine war</a>

The bill's authors have said it will not be used as punishment for "a personal choice or lifestyle" but only for promoting such a lifestyle, although it is unclear how they would be differentiating between the two in practice.

Violations would be punishable by fines of up to 400,000 rubles ($4,000) for individuals and up to five million rubles for businesses. The bill also includes a provision to deport foreigners found guilty of disseminating the banned information.

"This is a fateful law. Without children, there will be no country. This ideology will lead to people stopping giving birth to children," said Duma's Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin, as quoted by AFP.&nbsp;

The legislation was about "protecting citizens, primarily the generation growing up, from information spread in the media space that negatively affects the development of personality," said Volodin.&nbsp;

This is "so new generations of our citizens grow up orientated towards traditional family values", he added.

Nina Ostanina, a Communist Party MP who heads the Duma committee on family policy, said the bill aims to "guard our youth from unnecessary ideologies".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-gaza-aid-efforts-in-right-direction-says-us-but-urges-further-action-775661">Israel's Gaza aid efforts in 'right direction,' says US, but urges further action</a>

The legislation will now be considered by the upper house of parliament on November 20, before being sent to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is expected to sign it into law.

This comes on top of Russia’s existing bans on "propaganda" of LGBTQ+ relationships or changing gender.

<h2>Russia's Other Bans&nbsp;</h2>

The Duma also unanimously passed legislation in the third reading banning foreigners living in countries that allow gender reassignment from adopting Russian children.

The bill is aimed at stopping Russian children from being able to legally change gender.

Moscow has long portrayed itself as a bulwark against liberal values, but that trend has hugely accelerated since the Kremlin launched its Ukraine offensive, further rupturing ties with the West.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fox-news-host-israel-supporter-pete-hegseth-to-be-defence-secretary-in-trumps-second-term-775663">Fox News host &amp; Israel supporter Pete Hegseth to be Defence Secretary in Trump's second term</a>

The bill would ban adoption by citizens of countries that authorise "the change of sex by medical intervention, including with the use of medicine", or allow individuals to change their gender on official identity documents.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia passed a controversial legislation banning "Western propaganda" of choosing not to have children on Tuesday (Nov 12). Calling the decision of not having children a "Western liberal idea", members of Russian parliament Duma passed the third and final draft of the legislation.

Russia passed a controversial legislation banning "Western propaganda" of choosing not to have children on Tuesday (Nov 12). Calling the decision of not having children a "Western liberal idea", members of Russian parliament Duma passed the third and final draft of the legislation. The ban comes as an effort of Moscow to reverse the demographic slump in the country accentuated by its military offensive on Ukraine. Russia is currently facing an ageing population and low birth rates that are a threat to its economic future. The bill would apply to materials online, in media, advertising and in films that promote "rejection of childbearing," according to a report by news agency AFP. Calling the advertisements on birth control "destructive content," MPs in the parliament said the bill targets "propaganda" that promotes a "conscious" rejection of having children. Also read | US 'incredibly concerned' by North Korea troops in Russia, confirms 10,000 soldiers have joined Ukraine war The bill's authors have said it will not be used as punishment for "a personal choice or lifestyle" but only for promoting such a lifestyle, although it is unclear how they would be differentiating between the two in practice. Violations would be punishable by fines of up to 400,000 rubles ($4,000) for individuals and up to five million rubles for businesses. The bill also includes a provision to deport foreigners found guilty of disseminating the banned information. "This is a fateful law. Without children, there will be no country. This ideology will lead to people stopping giving birth to children," said Duma's Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin, as quoted by AFP. The legislation was about "protecting citizens, primarily the generation growing up, from information spread in the media space that negatively affects the development of personality," said Volodin. This is "so new generations of our citizens grow up orientated towards traditional family values", he added. Nina Ostanina, a Communist Party MP who heads the Duma committee on family policy, said the bill aims to "guard our youth from unnecessary ideologies". Also read | Israel's Gaza aid efforts in 'right direction,' says US, but urges further action The legislation will now be considered by the upper house of parliament on November 20, before being sent to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is expected to sign it into law. This comes on top of Russia’s existing bans on "propaganda" of LGBTQ+ relationships or changing gender. Russia's Other Bans The Duma also unanimously passed legislation in the third reading banning foreigners living in countries that allow gender reassignment from adopting Russian children. The bill is aimed at stopping Russian children from being able to legally change gender. Moscow has long portrayed itself as a bulwark against liberal values, but that trend has hugely accelerated since the Kremlin launched its Ukraine offensive, further rupturing ties with the West. Also read | Fox News host & Israel supporter Pete Hegseth to be Defence Secretary in Trump's second term The bill would ban adoption by citizens of countries that authorise "the change of sex by medical intervention, including with the use of medicine", or allow individuals to change their gender on official identity documents. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia bans 'Western propaganda' of childless lifestyle, violation would cost $4,000

North Korea has officially ratified a historic defence pact with Russia, deepening their mutual support and military cooperation. This comes as Pyongyang reportedly sent thousands of troops to bolster Moscow’s forces in Ukraine.

<h2>Ratified as a decree</h2>

North Korean state media Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on Tuesday (Nov 12) reported that the deal “was ratified as a decree” of leader Kim Jong Un.

Russia unanimously approved the pact last week, with President Vladimir Putin adding his signature soon after.

“The treaty will take effect from the day when both sides exchanged the ratification instruments,” it added.

Also read | <a class="WlydOe" data-sb="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-and-north-korea-deeen-ties-with-mutual-defence-treaty-774921&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj1jqmItNaJAxXlTGwGHUqSM0EQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE&amp;usg=AOvVaw13wvDdiP9nGdXBKhF9Vrzk" data-ved="2ahUKEwj1jqmItNaJAxXlTGwGHUqSM0EQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-and-north-korea-deeen-ties-with-mutual-defence-treaty-774921" jsname="YKoRaf">Russia and North Korea deepen ties with mutual defence treaty</a>

Kim and Putin initially forged the treaty during Putin's June visit to North Korea, aiming to secure each other’s military support “without delay” if either nation comes under attack, and promising resistance to Western sanctions. Putin called the deal a “breakthrough document.”

This bilateral ratification, as per Hong Min, a senior analyst at the Korea Institute for National Unification means that “Pyongyang and Moscow will claim legitimacy for North Korea's military deployment to Russia, arguing that this action is justified by the ratified treaty between the two”.

“While their treaty does not override UN resolutions prohibiting such cooperation, they will assert its legitimacy based on their agreement,” Hong added.

The treaty, some experts warn, could pave the way for even greater deployments of North Korean soldiers to Russia in the future.

“This raises the prospect of additional, potentially larger deployments of North Korean manpower to Russia in the future.”

Also read | <a class="WlydOe" data-sb="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-soldiers-have-become-porn-addicts-amid-russia-ukraine-war-report-773890&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj1jqmItNaJAxXlTGwGHUqSM0EQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE&amp;usg=AOvVaw242K_AE_eAyGJXl6xBDuKJ" data-ved="2ahUKEwj1jqmItNaJAxXlTGwGHUqSM0EQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-soldiers-have-become-porn-addicts-amid-russia-ukraine-war-report-773890" jsname="YKoRaf">North Korean soldiers have become porn addicts amid Russia-Ukraine war: Report</a>

<h2>Deepening Russia-North Korea ties</h2>

The pact marks a deepening of Russia-North Korea relations, especially since Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

It comes as Western and South Korean sources allege North Korea has supplied Russia with weaponry, with Ukrainian forensic teams claiming to have found North Korean arms at Russian attack sites. Additionally, reports suggest that North Korea has sent thousands of its troops to Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has alleged that a few of the around 11,000 personnel have been involved in combat in Russia's Kursk region. However, Russia has not verified these reports.

Recent reports citing Western intelligence officers also back Zelensky's claims that a small number of North Korean troops are already “in action” inside Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

North Korea has officially ratified a historic defence pact with Russia, deepening their mutual support and military cooperation. This comes as Pyongyang reportedly sent thousands of troops to bolster Moscow’s forces in Ukraine.

North Korea has officially ratified a historic defence pact with Russia, deepening their mutual support and military cooperation. This comes as Pyongyang reportedly sent thousands of troops to bolster Moscow’s forces in Ukraine. Ratified as a decree North Korean state media Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on Tuesday (Nov 12) reported that the deal “was ratified as a decree” of leader Kim Jong Un. Russia unanimously approved the pact last week, with President Vladimir Putin adding his signature soon after. “The treaty will take effect from the day when both sides exchanged the ratification instruments,” it added. Also read | Russia and North Korea deepen ties with mutual defence treaty Kim and Putin initially forged the treaty during Putin's June visit to North Korea, aiming to secure each other’s military support “without delay” if either nation comes under attack, and promising resistance to Western sanctions. Putin called the deal a “breakthrough document.” This bilateral ratification, as per Hong Min, a senior analyst at the Korea Institute for National Unification means that “Pyongyang and Moscow will claim legitimacy for North Korea's military deployment to Russia, arguing that this action is justified by the ratified treaty between the two”. “While their treaty does not override UN resolutions prohibiting such cooperation, they will assert its legitimacy based on their agreement,” Hong added. The treaty, some experts warn, could pave the way for even greater deployments of North Korean soldiers to Russia in the future. “This raises the prospect of additional, potentially larger deployments of North Korean manpower to Russia in the future.” Also read | North Korean soldiers have become porn addicts amid Russia-Ukraine war: Report Deepening Russia-North Korea ties The pact marks a deepening of Russia-North Korea relations, especially since Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. It comes as Western and South Korean sources allege North Korea has supplied Russia with weaponry, with Ukrainian forensic teams claiming to have found North Korean arms at Russian attack sites. Additionally, reports suggest that North Korea has sent thousands of its troops to Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has alleged that a few of the around 11,000 personnel have been involved in combat in Russia's Kursk region. However, Russia has not verified these reports. Recent reports citing Western intelligence officers also back Zelensky's claims that a small number of North Korean troops are already “in action” inside Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea ratifies historic defence pact with Russia, strengthening military ties

Russia and Ukraine both launched an unprecedented exchange of drone attacks overnight — despite a recent call between US president-elect Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin over de-escalation.

Trump’s call with Russian President Vladimir Putin happened on Thursday (Nov 7) but was not reported till now. According to The Washington Post, the call had the president-elect warn Putin of “Washington's sizeable military presence in Europe”.

However, on Sunday (Nov 10) and overnight, both Russia and Ukraine launched record drone assaults.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sizeable-military-presence-in-europe-trump-warns-putin-against-escalating-ukraine-war-775063">Trump warns Putin against escalating Ukraine war in post-election call</a>

<h2>Record drone strikes</h2>

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that Russia unleashed 145 drones in a single night, a historic high for a single night in the war, so far.

“Last night, Russia launched a record 145 Shaheds and other strike drones against Ukraine,” said Zelensky on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This week, our air defense forces have been working day and night to protect Ukraine’s skies from Russian terror. Last night, Russia launched a record 145 Shaheds and other strike drones against Ukraine. Throughout the week, Russia has used more than 800 guided aerial bombs,… <a href="https://t.co/ENhfkUZISX">pic.twitter.com/ENhfkUZISX</a>
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1855557102028161405?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“Throughout the week, Russia has used more than 800 guided aerial bombs, around 600 strike drones, and nearly 20 missiles of various types,” he added.

Urging allies to do more to help his country's defence, the Ukrainian president said, “Such&nbsp;terror cannot be stopped with words, and the killing of children and the loss of loved ones cannot simply be forgotten.”

“Without justice, there is no lasting peace, and it is quite realistic for Ukraine to achieve it,” he remarked.

Moscow also claimed to have intercepted 34 Ukrainian drones targeting the Russian capital on Sunday. This marks Kyiv's largest attempted strike on Moscow since Russia’s offensive began in 2022.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia and Ukraine both launched an unprecedented exchange of drone attacks overnight — despite a recent call between US president-elect Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin over de-escalation.

Russia and Ukraine both launched an unprecedented exchange of drone attacks overnight — despite a recent call between US president-elect Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin over de-escalation. Trump’s call with Russian President Vladimir Putin happened on Thursday (Nov 7) but was not reported till now. According to The Washington Post, the call had the president-elect warn Putin of “Washington's sizeable military presence in Europe”. However, on Sunday (Nov 10) and overnight, both Russia and Ukraine launched record drone assaults. Also read: Trump warns Putin against escalating Ukraine war in post-election call Record drone strikes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that Russia unleashed 145 drones in a single night, a historic high for a single night in the war, so far. “Last night, Russia launched a record 145 Shaheds and other strike drones against Ukraine,” said Zelensky on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter). This week, our air defense forces have been working day and night to protect Ukraine’s skies from Russian terror. Last night, Russia launched a record 145 Shaheds and other strike drones against Ukraine. Throughout the week, Russia has used more than 800 guided aerial bombs,… pic.twitter.com/ENhfkUZISX — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) November 10, 2024 × “Throughout the week, Russia has used more than 800 guided aerial bombs, around 600 strike drones, and nearly 20 missiles of various types,” he added. Urging allies to do more to help his country's defence, the Ukrainian president said, “Such terror cannot be stopped with words, and the killing of children and the loss of loved ones cannot simply be forgotten.” “Without justice, there is no lasting peace, and it is quite realistic for Ukraine to achieve it,” he remarked. Moscow also claimed to have intercepted 34 Ukrainian drones targeting the Russian capital on Sunday. This marks Kyiv's largest attempted strike on Moscow since Russia’s offensive began in 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia and Ukraine exchange record drone strikes despite Trump-Putin call

Ukraine early on Sunday (Nov 9) launched a major drone assault on Moscow targeting the Russian capital with at least 25 drones, in what has been described as one of the largest Ukrainian attacks on the city since the conflict began.

Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin confirmed the drone assault and said that all the drones were downed.

These strikes come as Russia hosted diplomats and officials from approximately 50 African nations at a ministerial conference in Sochi on the Black Sea.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-and-north-korea-deeen-ties-with-mutual-defence-treaty-774921">Russia and North Korea deepen ties with mutual defence treaty</a>

<h2>Russia destroys Ukrainian drones</h2>

Mayor Sobyanin, in a post on Telegram, said,&nbsp;“In all, 25 drones were destroyed”. These drones, he said, were heading for Moscow’s Ramenskoye and Kolomensky districts and Domodedovo city to the southwest — a region with a population of more than 21 million, as per AFP.

Officially, no casualties or damage have been reported. However, reports on social media suggest some structural damage in places.

“According to preliminary information, there is no damage or casualties at the site of the fall of the debris,” Sobyanin added on the Telegram messaging app. “Emergency services are on the sites.”

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-plans-to-introduce-ministry-of-sex-in-russia-amid-drooping-birth-rate-774906">Putin plans to introduce 'ministry of sex' in Russia amid drooping birth rate</a>

The drone attack temporarily halted operations at Moscow’s Domodedovo and Zhukovsky airports.

Russia’s federal air transport agency, Rosaviatsia, in a statement, said that “to ensure the safety of civil aircraft flights, temporary restrictions have been introduced on the operation of the Domodedovo and Zhukovo airports,” starting at 0530 GMT. However, it did not specify how long the restrictions would remain in place.

Ukrainian officials have previously indicated these strikes that often target Russian energy production sites are retaliatory responses to Moscow's bombardments on Ukrainian energy and infrastructure sites since the war’s onset.

Elsewhere, Ukrainian drones reportedly set fire to several non-residential buildings in Russia’s Kaluga and Bryansk regions. Local authorities claim to have neutralised 17 drones over Bryansk.

(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

Ukraine early on Sunday (Nov 9) launched a major drone assault on Moscow targeting the Russian capital with at least 25 drones, in what has been described as one of the largest Ukrainian attacks on the city since the conflict began.

Ukraine early on Sunday (Nov 9) launched a major drone assault on Moscow targeting the Russian capital with at least 25 drones, in what has been described as one of the largest Ukrainian attacks on the city since the conflict began. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin confirmed the drone assault and said that all the drones were downed. These strikes come as Russia hosted diplomats and officials from approximately 50 African nations at a ministerial conference in Sochi on the Black Sea. Also read | Russia and North Korea deepen ties with mutual defence treaty Russia destroys Ukrainian drones Mayor Sobyanin, in a post on Telegram, said, “In all, 25 drones were destroyed”. These drones, he said, were heading for Moscow’s Ramenskoye and Kolomensky districts and Domodedovo city to the southwest — a region with a population of more than 21 million, as per AFP. Officially, no casualties or damage have been reported. However, reports on social media suggest some structural damage in places. “According to preliminary information, there is no damage or casualties at the site of the fall of the debris,” Sobyanin added on the Telegram messaging app. “Emergency services are on the sites.” Also read | Putin plans to introduce 'ministry of sex' in Russia amid drooping birth rate The drone attack temporarily halted operations at Moscow’s Domodedovo and Zhukovsky airports. Russia’s federal air transport agency, Rosaviatsia, in a statement, said that “to ensure the safety of civil aircraft flights, temporary restrictions have been introduced on the operation of the Domodedovo and Zhukovo airports,” starting at 0530 GMT. However, it did not specify how long the restrictions would remain in place. Ukrainian officials have previously indicated these strikes that often target Russian energy production sites are retaliatory responses to Moscow's bombardments on Ukrainian energy and infrastructure sites since the war’s onset. Elsewhere, Ukrainian drones reportedly set fire to several non-residential buildings in Russia’s Kaluga and Bryansk regions. Local authorities claim to have neutralised 17 drones over Bryansk. (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

Moscow hit by largest Ukrainian drone assault since the start of war; Russia says all 25 downed

Russian President Vladimir Putin has officially approved a strategic partnership treaty with North Korea, according to a decree published on Saturday (Nov 9).

The accord, as per a Reuters report, includes a mutual defence clause, which obligates each nation to provide military support to the other in case of an armed attack.

<h2>From treaty to law</h2>

The agreement, signed by Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in June during a summit in Pyongyang, was ratified by both chambers of the Russian parliament and formalised by Putin's decree on Saturday. The treaty was ratified by the upper house of The Knesset this week, while the lower house endorsed it last month.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/forget-crimea-trump-advisor-tells-zelensky-ceding-territory-is-vital-for-peace-in-ukraine-774870">‘Forget Crimea,’ Trump advisor tells Zelensky ceding territory is vital for peace in Ukraine</a>

<h2>Deepening Russia-North Korea ties</h2>

The pact marks a deepening of Russia-North Korea relations, especially since Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

It comes as Western and South Korean sources allege North Korea has supplied Russia with weaponry, with Ukrainian forensic teams claiming to have found North Korean arms at Russian attack sites. Additionally, reports suggest that North Korea has sent thousands of its troops to Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has alleged that a few of the around 11,000 personnel have been involved in combat in Russia's Kursk region. However, Russia has not verified these reports.

Recent reports citing Western intelligence officers also back Zelensky's claims that a small number of North Korean troops are already “in action” inside Ukraine.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-disrupted-gps-signals-from-border-areas-for-second-consecutive-day-seoul-774810">North Korea disrupted GPS signals from border areas for second consecutive day: Seoul</a>

According to the United States, North Korea has sent approximately 10,000 troops to Russia to train and likely fight against Ukraine. Last month, Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh in a statement said the troops are likely being stationed in eastern Russia, potentially reinforcing Russian forces.

“We believe that the DPRK has sent around 10,000 soldiers in total to train in eastern Russia that will probably augment Russian forces near Ukraine over the next several weeks,” Singh told reporters, using the abbreviation for North Korea's official name.

At the time, President Joe Biden slammed the move as “very dangerous,” a sentiment echoed by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who called it a “dangerous expansion of Russia's war”.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin has officially approved a strategic partnership treaty with North Korea, according to a decree published on Saturday (Nov 9). The accord, as per a Reuters report, includes a mutual defence clause, which obligates each nation to provide military support to the other in case of an armed attack.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has officially approved a strategic partnership treaty with North Korea, according to a decree published on Saturday (Nov 9). The accord, as per a Reuters report, includes a mutual defence clause, which obligates each nation to provide military support to the other in case of an armed attack. From treaty to law The agreement, signed by Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in June during a summit in Pyongyang, was ratified by both chambers of the Russian parliament and formalised by Putin's decree on Saturday. The treaty was ratified by the upper house of The Knesset this week, while the lower house endorsed it last month. Also read | ‘Forget Crimea,’ Trump advisor tells Zelensky ceding territory is vital for peace in Ukraine Deepening Russia-North Korea ties The pact marks a deepening of Russia-North Korea relations, especially since Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. It comes as Western and South Korean sources allege North Korea has supplied Russia with weaponry, with Ukrainian forensic teams claiming to have found North Korean arms at Russian attack sites. Additionally, reports suggest that North Korea has sent thousands of its troops to Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has alleged that a few of the around 11,000 personnel have been involved in combat in Russia's Kursk region. However, Russia has not verified these reports. Recent reports citing Western intelligence officers also back Zelensky's claims that a small number of North Korean troops are already “in action” inside Ukraine. Also read | North Korea disrupted GPS signals from border areas for second consecutive day: Seoul According to the United States, North Korea has sent approximately 10,000 troops to Russia to train and likely fight against Ukraine. Last month, Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh in a statement said the troops are likely being stationed in eastern Russia, potentially reinforcing Russian forces. “We believe that the DPRK has sent around 10,000 soldiers in total to train in eastern Russia that will probably augment Russian forces near Ukraine over the next several weeks,” Singh told reporters, using the abbreviation for North Korea's official name. At the time, President Joe Biden slammed the move as “very dangerous,” a sentiment echoed by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who called it a “dangerous expansion of Russia's war”. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia and North Korea deepen ties with mutual defence treaty

Kyiv on Sunday urged Moscow to provide a list of Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) who are ready for exchange after Russia claimed Ukraine was obstructing the swap process.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:67,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1757}">Ukraine spokesperson's statement on Telegram</h2>

Responding to Russia's accusation on Telegram, Ukrainian human rights commissioner Dmytro Lubinets said, "We are always ready to exchange prisoners of war!".

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:209,&quot;w&quot;:805,&quot;h&quot;:33,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1899}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-parliament-approves-first-wartime-tax-hikes-to-shore-up-finances-amid-ongoing-tensions-with-russia-766343">Ukraine’s parliament approves first wartime tax hikes to shore up finances amid ongoing conflict with Russia</a>

Reiterating Kyiv's openness to resuming exchanges, he said that Ukraine was always ready to accept its citizens and instead accused Russia of slowing down the process.

The statement follows recent claims from Russia's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova, who on Saturday (Nov 2) accused Ukraine of essentially sabotaging the process by refusing to take back its detained citizens.&nbsp;

According to Zakharova, Russia had offered to release 935 Ukrainian POWs but said that Ukraine had accepted only 279.

Also on Saturday, Russian Commissioner for Human Rights Tatyana Moskalkova expressed concern that Ukraine had "politicised" the issue and urged both sides to return to constructive dialogue to expedite the exchanges.&nbsp;

"We consider it necessary to return to a constructive dialogue and speed up the exchange of prisoners," the Russian Human Rights Commissioner wrote on Telegram.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-eyes-new-peace-summit-by-year-end-and-wants-russia-to-attend-it-envoy-to-turkey-says-766056">Ukraine eyes new peace summit by year-end and wants Russia to attend it, envoy to Turkey says</a>

POW exchanges between the two warring nations have happened frequently and have been ongoing since Russia's 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The last exchange took place in mid-October, with each side successfully returning 95 prisoners.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Kyiv on Sunday urged Moscow to provide a list of Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) who are ready for exchange after Russia claimed Ukraine was obstructing the swap process.

Kyiv on Sunday urged Moscow to provide a list of Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) who are ready for exchange after Russia claimed Ukraine was obstructing the swap process. Ukraine spokesperson's statement on Telegram Responding to Russia's accusation on Telegram, Ukrainian human rights commissioner Dmytro Lubinets said, "We are always ready to exchange prisoners of war!". Also read | Ukraine’s parliament approves first wartime tax hikes to shore up finances amid ongoing conflict with Russia Reiterating Kyiv's openness to resuming exchanges, he said that Ukraine was always ready to accept its citizens and instead accused Russia of slowing down the process. The statement follows recent claims from Russia's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova, who on Saturday (Nov 2) accused Ukraine of essentially sabotaging the process by refusing to take back its detained citizens. According to Zakharova, Russia had offered to release 935 Ukrainian POWs but said that Ukraine had accepted only 279. Also on Saturday, Russian Commissioner for Human Rights Tatyana Moskalkova expressed concern that Ukraine had "politicised" the issue and urged both sides to return to constructive dialogue to expedite the exchanges. "We consider it necessary to return to a constructive dialogue and speed up the exchange of prisoners," the Russian Human Rights Commissioner wrote on Telegram. Also read | Ukraine eyes new peace summit by year-end and wants Russia to attend it, envoy to Turkey says POW exchanges between the two warring nations have happened frequently and have been ongoing since Russia's 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The last exchange took place in mid-October, with each side successfully returning 95 prisoners. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine calls on Russia to provide POW list, accuses Moscow of slowing down the process

Ukraine on Tuesday (Oct 29) announced a new mobilisation push as reports surfaced of North Korean troops stationed in Russia's Kursk area, with the Pentagon indicating that thousands more Pyongyang soldiers are expected to arrive soon.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:85,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1771}">North Koreans in Ukraine</h2>

Reports citing Western intelligence officers claim that a small number of North Korean troops are already "in action" inside Ukraine.

According to a CNN report citing two officials, "It seems that a good many of them (North Korean troops) are already in action."

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:83,&quot;y&quot;:229,&quot;w&quot;:609,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:116,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1915}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-pentagon-says-north-korea-has-sent-10000-troops-to-back-russia-in-ukraine-war-771516">US ups earlier estimates, claims 10,000 North Korean troops backing Russia in Ukraine war</a>

Talking to South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also highlighted the concerning "internationalisation" of the conflict and the strategic risk posed by North Korean involvement.

"The conclusion is clear: this war is becoming internationalised, extending beyond two countries," said the leader of the war-torn Ukraine.

Yoon, meanwhile, expressed concern about North Korean troops' "unprecedented and dangerous" involvement in the Ukraine war and expressed fears that Pyongyang may gain advanced military technology and combat experience from its alignment with Russia.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:449,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2135}">Ukraine's massive mobilisation</h2>

At home, Ukraine's the Secretary of Ukraine's National Security Council Oleksandr Lytvynenko told Parliament about Kyiv's plans to recruit an additional 160,000 soldiers amid manpower shortages. The recruitment, as per AFP, would unfold over three months.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiSh7inqLWJAxVnRmcHHTsyKqAQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-says-deployment-of-troops-in-russia-wont-breach-international-law-770768" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-says-deployment-of-troops-in-russia-wont-breach-international-law-770768&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiSh7inqLWJAxVnRmcHHTsyKqAQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">North Korea says deployment of troops in Russia won’t breach international law</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:564,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2250}">Russia's latest gains</h2>

Russia forces, as per reports, have seized the mining hub of Selydove in the Donetsk region, where Moscow claims to have taken control of additional villages, including Bogoyavlenka, Girnyk, and Katerynivka. Moscow has reportedly gained over 478 square kilometres in October alone, its largest advance since the early stages of the war. This surge follows the collapse of Ukrainian defences in Avdiivka, a stronghold town, earlier this year.&nbsp;

Ukraine on Tuesday (Oct 29) announced a new mobilisation push as reports surfaced of North Korean troops stationed in Russia's Kursk area, with the Pentagon indicating that thousands more Pyongyang soldiers are expected to arrive soon.

Ukraine on Tuesday (Oct 29) announced a new mobilisation push as reports surfaced of North Korean troops stationed in Russia's Kursk area, with the Pentagon indicating that thousands more Pyongyang soldiers are expected to arrive soon. North Koreans in Ukraine Reports citing Western intelligence officers claim that a small number of North Korean troops are already "in action" inside Ukraine. According to a CNN report citing two officials, "It seems that a good many of them (North Korean troops) are already in action." Also read | US ups earlier estimates, claims 10,000 North Korean troops backing Russia in Ukraine war Talking to South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also highlighted the concerning "internationalisation" of the conflict and the strategic risk posed by North Korean involvement. "The conclusion is clear: this war is becoming internationalised, extending beyond two countries," said the leader of the war-torn Ukraine. Yoon, meanwhile, expressed concern about North Korean troops' "unprecedented and dangerous" involvement in the Ukraine war and expressed fears that Pyongyang may gain advanced military technology and combat experience from its alignment with Russia. Ukraine's massive mobilisation At home, Ukraine's the Secretary of Ukraine's National Security Council Oleksandr Lytvynenko told Parliament about Kyiv's plans to recruit an additional 160,000 soldiers amid manpower shortages. The recruitment, as per AFP, would unfold over three months. Also read | North Korea says deployment of troops in Russia won’t breach international law Russia's latest gains Russia forces, as per reports, have seized the mining hub of Selydove in the Donetsk region, where Moscow claims to have taken control of additional villages, including Bogoyavlenka, Girnyk, and Katerynivka. Moscow has reportedly gained over 478 square kilometres in October alone, its largest advance since the early stages of the war. This surge follows the collapse of Ukrainian defences in Avdiivka, a stronghold town, earlier this year.

Kyiv launches new mobilisation drive amid reports of North Korean troops 'in action' in Ukraine

The United States on Monday (Oct 28) said that North Korea has sent approximately 10,000 troops to Russia to train. Pentagon's latest assessment triples its previous estimate of 3,000&nbsp;North Korean personnel in Russia.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:85,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1922}">North Korean troops to augment Russia in Ukraine War: US</h2>

According to Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh, the troops are likely being stationed in eastern Russia, potentially reinforcing Russian forces.&nbsp;

"We believe that the DPRK has sent around 10,000 soldiers in total to train in eastern Russia that will probably augment Russian forces near Ukraine over the next several weeks," Singh told reporters, using the abbreviation for North Korea's official name.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:247,&quot;w&quot;:571,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2084}" data-ved="2ahUKEwi969-60LKJAxW3TWwGHRRbA_QQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-says-deployment-of-troops-in-russia-wont-breach-international-law-770768" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-says-deployment-of-troops-in-russia-wont-breach-international-law-770768&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi969-60LKJAxW3TWwGHRRbA_QQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE">North Korea says deployment of troops in Russia won’t breach international law</a>

President Joe Biden slammed the move as "very dangerous," a sentiment echoed by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who called it a "dangerous expansion of Russia's war".

Rutte said that it was evidence of Russian President Vladimir Putin's "growing desperation." He said that Russia's mounting losses, with over 600,000 casualties reported since 2022, have increased the Kremlin's reliance on foreign allies for support.

Speaking in Brussels, following a briefing with South Korean officials, Rutte also confirmed that North Korea troops have been deployed in Russia's western Kursk region, where Ukrainian forces launched offensives this year.

"The deepening military cooperation between Russia and North Korea is a threat to both the Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic security," he said.

Meanwhile, EU President Ursula von der Leyen said that North Korea's involvement represents "a significant escalation of the war against Ukraine and threatens global peace."

In a phone call with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, she said: "The EU's response to this development will centre on cooperation with the Republic of Korea and other like-minded partners."

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:615,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2452}">Why is North Korea sending troops to Russia?</h2>

Experts suggest that North Korea is looking to acquire advanced Russian military technology—ranging from surveillance satellites to submarines—and security assurances from Moscow in exchange.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:710,&quot;w&quot;:678,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2547}" data-ved="2ahUKEwi969-60LKJAxW3TWwGHRRbA_QQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreans-deployed-alongside-russian-troops-to-fight-with-ukraine-kremlin-rejects-fake-claims-766328" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreans-deployed-alongside-russian-troops-to-fight-with-ukraine-kremlin-rejects-fake-claims-766328&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi969-60LKJAxW3TWwGHRRbA_QQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">North Koreans deployed alongside Russian troops to fight against Ukraine; Kremlin rejects claims as ‘fake’</a>

This comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday warned that North Korea could soon expand its personnel in Russia to around 12,000 soldiers.

Taking to X, Zelensky's chief of staff Andriy Yermak said: "This is an escalation. Sanctions alone are not enough. We need weapons and a clear plan to prevent North Korea's expanded involvement in the war in Europe."

<div bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:876,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:190,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2713}" class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:116,&quot;y&quot;:887,&quot;w&quot;:505,&quot;h&quot;:169,&quot;abs_x&quot;:149,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2724}" class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:121,&quot;y&quot;:887,&quot;w&quot;:495,&quot;h&quot;:169,&quot;abs_x&quot;:154,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2724}" class="twitter-tweet">
Today, Russia brings in North Korea; next, it could broaden their engagement, and then other autocratic regimes may see that they can get away with this and come to fight against NATO. 
 
The enemy understands strength. Our allies have this strength.
— Andriy Yermak (@AndriyYermak) <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:448,&quot;y&quot;:1015,&quot;w&quot;:100,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:481,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2852}" href="https://twitter.com/AndriyYermak/status/1850875706097512610?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:710,&quot;y&quot;:877,&quot;w&quot;:20,&quot;h&quot;:20,&quot;abs_x&quot;:743,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2714}" class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Today, Russia brings in North Korea; next, it could broaden their engagement, and then other autocratic regimes may see that they can get away with this and come to fight against NATO," he warned, adding&nbsp;"The enemy understands strength. Our allies have this strength."

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Monday (Oct 28) said that North Korea has sent approximately 10,000 troops to Russia to train. Pentagon's latest assessment triples its previous estimate of 3,000 North Korean personnel in Russia.

The United States on Monday (Oct 28) said that North Korea has sent approximately 10,000 troops to Russia to train. Pentagon's latest assessment triples its previous estimate of 3,000 North Korean personnel in Russia. North Korean troops to augment Russia in Ukraine War: US According to Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh, the troops are likely being stationed in eastern Russia, potentially reinforcing Russian forces. "We believe that the DPRK has sent around 10,000 soldiers in total to train in eastern Russia that will probably augment Russian forces near Ukraine over the next several weeks," Singh told reporters, using the abbreviation for North Korea's official name. Also read | North Korea says deployment of troops in Russia won’t breach international law President Joe Biden slammed the move as "very dangerous," a sentiment echoed by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who called it a "dangerous expansion of Russia's war". Rutte said that it was evidence of Russian President Vladimir Putin's "growing desperation." He said that Russia's mounting losses, with over 600,000 casualties reported since 2022, have increased the Kremlin's reliance on foreign allies for support. Speaking in Brussels, following a briefing with South Korean officials, Rutte also confirmed that North Korea troops have been deployed in Russia's western Kursk region, where Ukrainian forces launched offensives this year. "The deepening military cooperation between Russia and North Korea is a threat to both the Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic security," he said. Meanwhile, EU President Ursula von der Leyen said that North Korea's involvement represents "a significant escalation of the war against Ukraine and threatens global peace." In a phone call with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, she said: "The EU's response to this development will centre on cooperation with the Republic of Korea and other like-minded partners." Why is North Korea sending troops to Russia? Experts suggest that North Korea is looking to acquire advanced Russian military technology—ranging from surveillance satellites to submarines—and security assurances from Moscow in exchange. Also read | North Koreans deployed alongside Russian troops to fight against Ukraine; Kremlin rejects claims as ‘fake’ This comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday warned that North Korea could soon expand its personnel in Russia to around 12,000 soldiers. Taking to X, Zelensky's chief of staff Andriy Yermak said: "This is an escalation. Sanctions alone are not enough. We need weapons and a clear plan to prevent North Korea's expanded involvement in the war in Europe." Today, Russia brings in North Korea; next, it could broaden their engagement, and then other autocratic regimes may see that they can get away with this and come to fight against NATO. The enemy understands strength. Our allies have this strength. — Andriy Yermak (@AndriyYermak) October 28, 2024 × "Today, Russia brings in North Korea; next, it could broaden their engagement, and then other autocratic regimes may see that they can get away with this and come to fight against NATO," he warned, adding "The enemy understands strength. Our allies have this strength." (With inputs from agencies)

US ups earlier estimates, claims 10,000 North Korean troops backing Russia in Ukraine war

Ukraine on Thursday (Oct 24) claimed that Russian forces have executed four Ukrainian PoWs (Prisoner of War) captured in the eastern Donetsk region. This is the latest war crime allegation against Moscow since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war over two years ago.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:85,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1771}">Four Ukrainian servicemen executed, claims Kyiv</h2>

The Ukrainian prosecutor general's office in a statement, posted on its website, said that four Ukrainian servicemen fighting in the national guard had been captured by Russia on October 6 near the Donetsk region town of Selydove.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:197,&quot;w&quot;:691,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1883}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-confirms-north-korea-has-troops-in-russia-says-they-legitimate-targets-if-fight-in-ukraine-770244">US confirms North Korea has troops in Russia, says they 'legitimate' targets if fight in Ukraine</a>

"According to operational data, on October 6, 2024, four soldiers of the National Guard of Ukraine performed service and combat tasks at positions in the Selydove area. Around 1:00 p.m., the occupying forces launched an assault on the fortifications, during which they captured our defenders. Later, representatives of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation recorded the interrogation of the wounded, unarmed National Guardsmen on video."

"The next day, the Defence Forces regained their lost positions and found the bodies of the killed Ukrainian servicemen during a search operation," added the prosecutor's statement.

Kyiv said that a war crime probe had been launched into the incident and said it was a "gross violation" of the Geneva Conventions.

"The killing of prisoners of war is a gross violation of the Geneva Conventions and is classified as a serious international crime," added the statement.

Moscow is yet to respond to the claims by Kyiv.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/putin-calls-for-alternative-international-payment-system-to-combat-dollar-dominance-at-brics-meeting-770280">Putin calls for alternative international payment system to combat dollar dominance at Brics meeting</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:566,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2252}">Russia-Ukraine war and war crimes</h2>

Previously, in March 2023, a video of Moscow executing a PoW had gone viral.

In it, a captured Ukrainian soldier could be seen shouting "Glory to Ukraine" moments before being executed by a Russian shooting squad.

Since the start of the war, both Russia and Ukraine have charged each other with committing war crimes. The United Nations, as per&nbsp;AFP, has also stated that it has documented several incidents of violations of international humanitarian law against prisoners of war on both sides. This includes cases of summary execution of both Russian and Ukrainian prisoners.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine on Thursday (Oct 24) claimed that Russian forces have executed four Ukrainian PoWs (Prisoner of War) captured in the eastern Donetsk region. This is the latest war crime allegation against Moscow since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war over two years ago.

Ukraine on Thursday (Oct 24) claimed that Russian forces have executed four Ukrainian PoWs (Prisoner of War) captured in the eastern Donetsk region. This is the latest war crime allegation against Moscow since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war over two years ago. Four Ukrainian servicemen executed, claims Kyiv The Ukrainian prosecutor general's office in a statement, posted on its website, said that four Ukrainian servicemen fighting in the national guard had been captured by Russia on October 6 near the Donetsk region town of Selydove. Also read | US confirms North Korea has troops in Russia, says they 'legitimate' targets if fight in Ukraine "According to operational data, on October 6, 2024, four soldiers of the National Guard of Ukraine performed service and combat tasks at positions in the Selydove area. Around 1:00 p.m., the occupying forces launched an assault on the fortifications, during which they captured our defenders. Later, representatives of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation recorded the interrogation of the wounded, unarmed National Guardsmen on video." "The next day, the Defence Forces regained their lost positions and found the bodies of the killed Ukrainian servicemen during a search operation," added the prosecutor's statement. Kyiv said that a war crime probe had been launched into the incident and said it was a "gross violation" of the Geneva Conventions. "The killing of prisoners of war is a gross violation of the Geneva Conventions and is classified as a serious international crime," added the statement. Moscow is yet to respond to the claims by Kyiv. Also read | Putin calls for alternative international payment system to combat dollar dominance at Brics meeting Russia-Ukraine war and war crimes Previously, in March 2023, a video of Moscow executing a PoW had gone viral. In it, a captured Ukrainian soldier could be seen shouting "Glory to Ukraine" moments before being executed by a Russian shooting squad. Since the start of the war, both Russia and Ukraine have charged each other with committing war crimes. The United Nations, as per AFP, has also stated that it has documented several incidents of violations of international humanitarian law against prisoners of war on both sides. This includes cases of summary execution of both Russian and Ukrainian prisoners. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv accuses Moscow of executing four prisoners of war in Donetsk; alleges war crime

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has labelled the United States' recent statements about its readiness for nuclear talks with Russia, China, and North Korea without any preconditions a "deception".

In remarks published by the news outlet Argumenty I Fakty, Lavrov said, "The call to talk about strategic stability, about control over nuclear weapons without preconditions, is a deception."

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:118,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1803}">What 'without preconditions' means</h2>

The Russian foreign minister, as per Reuters,&nbsp;questioned, "What does 'without preconditions' mean?".

"This means that the Americans reserve the right to declare us an enemy in their doctrinal documents," he stated.&nbsp;

His comment comes as the United States in a note to Japanese organisation Nihon Hidankyo said it stood "ready to engage in talks with Russia, China, and North Korea without preconditions to reduce the nuclear threat".

Nihon Hidankyo is a grassroots movement of atomic bomb survivors from Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which won this year's Nobel Peace Prize.

Lavrov alleged that the White House statement is a front for America's broader goal of inflicting a "strategic defeat" on Russia on the battlefield.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:411,&quot;w&quot;:501,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2096}" data-ved="2ahUKEwiRwI3F4J6JAxXnumMGHW2KJigQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-targets-key-russian-explosives-plant-in-overnight-drone-strike-769178" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-targets-key-russian-explosives-plant-in-overnight-drone-strike-769178&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiRwI3F4J6JAxXnumMGHW2KJigQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">Ukraine targets key Russian explosives plant in overnight drone strike</a>

Lavrov also mentioned that Russia is closely following the US presidential election campaigns of both candidates, Republican former president Donald Trump and Democrat Vice President Kamala Harris.&nbsp;

"We are ready to work with any administration that the American people ultimately choose, but only if such a conversation is mutually respectful and equal," he said.

Lavrov expressed doubts that such a dialogue would be restored soon.

"We are currently monitoring the election campaign in the US, and at the moment we do not see any signs that we will return to such a conversation."

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:645,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2330}">Ukraine war</h2>

The Ukraine-Russia war, now over two years old, has heightened tensions between Russia and the West. Moscow calls its incursion into Ukraine a "special military operation," and has accused the US and NATO of waging a hybrid war by supporting Kyiv. In response, Ukraine and its allies have called the invasion as an act of unprovoked imperialistic attempt to grab land.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has labelled the United States' recent statements about its readiness for nuclear talks with Russia, China, and North Korea without any preconditions a "deception".

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has labelled the United States' recent statements about its readiness for nuclear talks with Russia, China, and North Korea without any preconditions a "deception". In remarks published by the news outlet Argumenty I Fakty, Lavrov said, "The call to talk about strategic stability, about control over nuclear weapons without preconditions, is a deception." What 'without preconditions' means The Russian foreign minister, as per Reuters, questioned, "What does 'without preconditions' mean?". "This means that the Americans reserve the right to declare us an enemy in their doctrinal documents," he stated. His comment comes as the United States in a note to Japanese organisation Nihon Hidankyo said it stood "ready to engage in talks with Russia, China, and North Korea without preconditions to reduce the nuclear threat". Nihon Hidankyo is a grassroots movement of atomic bomb survivors from Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which won this year's Nobel Peace Prize. Lavrov alleged that the White House statement is a front for America's broader goal of inflicting a "strategic defeat" on Russia on the battlefield. Also read | Ukraine targets key Russian explosives plant in overnight drone strike Lavrov also mentioned that Russia is closely following the US presidential election campaigns of both candidates, Republican former president Donald Trump and Democrat Vice President Kamala Harris. "We are ready to work with any administration that the American people ultimately choose, but only if such a conversation is mutually respectful and equal," he said. Lavrov expressed doubts that such a dialogue would be restored soon. "We are currently monitoring the election campaign in the US, and at the moment we do not see any signs that we will return to such a conversation." Ukraine war The Ukraine-Russia war, now over two years old, has heightened tensions between Russia and the West. Moscow calls its incursion into Ukraine a "special military operation," and has accused the US and NATO of waging a hybrid war by supporting Kyiv. In response, Ukraine and its allies have called the invasion as an act of unprovoked imperialistic attempt to grab land. (With inputs from agencies)

Sergei Lavrov slams US nuclear talks proposal, labels it 'strategic deception'

Ukraine said on Sunday it had targeted a crucial Russian explosives factory, located about 750 kilometres (470 miles) from the border, in an overnight drone attack.

Kyiv has repeatedly launched drone attacks deep into Russian territory, seeking to hit energy and military sites that it says are key to supplying Moscow's invading army.

A source in the SBU security services told AFP its drones had struck the Sverdlov explosives factory in Dzerzhinsk, just outside the Russian city of Nizhny Novgorod.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:164,&quot;w&quot;:706,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1849}" data-ved="2ahUKEwiI0pL-1ZyJAxWdzzgGHaErG8AQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-sanctions-on-chinese-companies-for-helping-russia-make-drones-to-attack-ukraine-768491" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-sanctions-on-chinese-companies-for-helping-russia-make-drones-to-attack-ukraine-768491&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiI0pL-1ZyJAxWdzzgGHaErG8AQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE">US imposes sanctions on Chinese companies for helping Russia make drones to attack Ukraine</a>

Russian officials confirmed drones had targeted the area but said the attack had been foiled.

"Air defences and electronic warfare means repelled a drone attack on the territory of the Dzerzhinsk industrial zone," Nizhny Novgorod regional governor Gleb Nikitin said on Telegram.

"Four employees of the fire station, located on the territory of the industrial enterprise, received light shrapnel wounds," he added.

The United States and European Union have sanctioned the Sverdlov plant, one of Russia's largest manufacturers of military explosives.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi1rIKI1pyJAxXN4jgGHbGwHbk4ChDF9AEoAHoECBAQAQ" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-accuses-west-of-swaying-georgia-election-campaign-by-blatant-attempts-767741" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-accuses-west-of-swaying-georgia-election-campaign-by-blatant-attempts-767741&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi1rIKI1pyJAxXN4jgGHbGwHbk4ChDF9AEoAHoECBAQAQ">Kremlin accuses West of swaying Georgia election campaign by 'blatant attempts'</a>

Footage posted on Russian social media showed a large explosion in the area and small drones being downed by air defence systems.

AFP could not immediately verify the footage.

Kyiv did not say what damage, if any, the attack inflicted on the plant's production capabilities.

Moscow's defence ministry said earlier it had downed 110 Ukrainian drones that had been fired at its territory overnight, the largest attempted aerial barrage by Ukraine in two weeks.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:559,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2244}">Drone attacks&nbsp;</h2>

Russia also launched a wave of attacks on Ukraine.

Kyiv said they targeted residential areas.

At least 17 people, including a first responder, were wounded in an attack on the Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rig, the state emergency services said.

Russia also attacked an energy facility in the northeastern Sumy region, the regional power operator Sumyoblenergo said on Telegram, knocking out electricity for more than 37,000 consumers.

Ukraine is bracing for its toughest winter of the war yet.

Russia has destroyed swathes of its generating capacity and continues to strike energy sites, at a time when temperatures have dropped towards freezing across the country.

Separately, Russian aviation authorities temporarily closed the Kazan airport, around 1,000 kilometres from the Ukraine border, on Sunday morning, citing air safety concerns.

The Rosaviatsia agency did not provide a reason for the suspension of flights, although such restrictions are typically imposed when there are reports of Ukrainian drone attacks in the area.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to meet the leaders of China, Brazil and Turkey in the city later this week for the BRICS summit, the biggest gathering of Moscow's allies and partners inside the country since it invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

Ukraine said on Sunday it had targeted a crucial Russian explosives factory, located about 750 kilometres (470 miles) from the border, in an overnight drone attack.

Ukraine said on Sunday it had targeted a crucial Russian explosives factory, located about 750 kilometres (470 miles) from the border, in an overnight drone attack. Kyiv has repeatedly launched drone attacks deep into Russian territory, seeking to hit energy and military sites that it says are key to supplying Moscow's invading army. A source in the SBU security services told AFP its drones had struck the Sverdlov explosives factory in Dzerzhinsk, just outside the Russian city of Nizhny Novgorod. Also read | US imposes sanctions on Chinese companies for helping Russia make drones to attack Ukraine Russian officials confirmed drones had targeted the area but said the attack had been foiled. "Air defences and electronic warfare means repelled a drone attack on the territory of the Dzerzhinsk industrial zone," Nizhny Novgorod regional governor Gleb Nikitin said on Telegram. "Four employees of the fire station, located on the territory of the industrial enterprise, received light shrapnel wounds," he added. The United States and European Union have sanctioned the Sverdlov plant, one of Russia's largest manufacturers of military explosives. Also read | Kremlin accuses West of swaying Georgia election campaign by 'blatant attempts' Footage posted on Russian social media showed a large explosion in the area and small drones being downed by air defence systems. AFP could not immediately verify the footage. Kyiv did not say what damage, if any, the attack inflicted on the plant's production capabilities. Moscow's defence ministry said earlier it had downed 110 Ukrainian drones that had been fired at its territory overnight, the largest attempted aerial barrage by Ukraine in two weeks. Drone attacks Russia also launched a wave of attacks on Ukraine. Kyiv said they targeted residential areas. At least 17 people, including a first responder, were wounded in an attack on the Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rig, the state emergency services said. Russia also attacked an energy facility in the northeastern Sumy region, the regional power operator Sumyoblenergo said on Telegram, knocking out electricity for more than 37,000 consumers. Ukraine is bracing for its toughest winter of the war yet. Russia has destroyed swathes of its generating capacity and continues to strike energy sites, at a time when temperatures have dropped towards freezing across the country. Separately, Russian aviation authorities temporarily closed the Kazan airport, around 1,000 kilometres from the Ukraine border, on Sunday morning, citing air safety concerns. The Rosaviatsia agency did not provide a reason for the suspension of flights, although such restrictions are typically imposed when there are reports of Ukrainian drone attacks in the area. Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to meet the leaders of China, Brazil and Turkey in the city later this week for the BRICS summit, the biggest gathering of Moscow's allies and partners inside the country since it invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ukraine targets key Russian explosives plant in overnight drone strike

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (Oct 13) accused North Korea of sending thousands of its soldiers to fight alongside Russia in the war and appealed for more support to prevent "a bigger war".

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:67,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1757}">Zelensky's appeal</h2>

In his nightly address, Zelensky stressed that the alliance represents more than just a weapons exchange.&nbsp;

"We see that the alliance between Russia and such regimes as the North Korean one is getting stronger," he said.

"This is not just about the transfer of weapons, this is in fact about the transfer of people from North Korea to the armed forces of the occupiers," added the Ukrainian president.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-slams-new-us-oil-sanctions-calls-them-illegal-and-unjustified-767029">Iran slams new US oil sanctions, calls them ‘illegal and unjustified’</a>

He emphasised the need for Ukraine's partners to offer more long-range capabilities and consistent military support.

"It is obvious that under such conditions our relationship with our partners needs to evolve," he said, adding "The front line needs more support. We are talking about more long-range capabilities for Ukraine and more sustained supplies for our forces rather than a simple list of military hardware."

"It is about increasing the pressure on the aggressor, which will be stronger for Russia than they can withstand. And it is about preventing a bigger war."

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:375,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2065}">South Korea raises alarm&nbsp;</h2>

South Korean officials have also raised alarms about the "high possibility" of North Korean troop involvement, a claim dismissed by the Kremlin as "fake news."&nbsp;

On Thursday (Oct 10), Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov when asked by the press if North Korea was sending its troops to fight in Ukraine said,&nbsp;"This looks like another bit of fake news."

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:517,&quot;w&quot;:700,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2207}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kamala-harriss-remarks-on-putin-as-murderous-dictator-exposes-us-view-of-world-says-kremlin-766938">Kamala Harris calls Putin 'murderous dictator', Kremlin says her remarks expose US view of world</a>

Zelensky's remarks come after a series of high-profile visits to European capitals, where he sought additional aid. Meanwhile, on the ground, Russian forces continue their advance in eastern Ukraine, claiming another village near the strategic city of Pokrovsk, with the situation in the region described as "very difficult" by Kyiv.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (Oct 13) accused North Korea of sending thousands of its soldiers to fight alongside Russia in the war and appealed for more support to prevent "a bigger war".

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (Oct 13) accused North Korea of sending thousands of its soldiers to fight alongside Russia in the war and appealed for more support to prevent "a bigger war". Zelensky's appeal In his nightly address, Zelensky stressed that the alliance represents more than just a weapons exchange. "We see that the alliance between Russia and such regimes as the North Korean one is getting stronger," he said. "This is not just about the transfer of weapons, this is in fact about the transfer of people from North Korea to the armed forces of the occupiers," added the Ukrainian president. Also read | Iran slams new US oil sanctions, calls them ‘illegal and unjustified’ He emphasised the need for Ukraine's partners to offer more long-range capabilities and consistent military support. "It is obvious that under such conditions our relationship with our partners needs to evolve," he said, adding "The front line needs more support. We are talking about more long-range capabilities for Ukraine and more sustained supplies for our forces rather than a simple list of military hardware." "It is about increasing the pressure on the aggressor, which will be stronger for Russia than they can withstand. And it is about preventing a bigger war." South Korea raises alarm South Korean officials have also raised alarms about the "high possibility" of North Korean troop involvement, a claim dismissed by the Kremlin as "fake news." On Thursday (Oct 10), Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov when asked by the press if North Korea was sending its troops to fight in Ukraine said, "This looks like another bit of fake news." Also read | Kamala Harris calls Putin 'murderous dictator', Kremlin says her remarks expose US view of world Zelensky's remarks come after a series of high-profile visits to European capitals, where he sought additional aid. Meanwhile, on the ground, Russian forces continue their advance in eastern Ukraine, claiming another village near the strategic city of Pokrovsk, with the situation in the region described as "very difficult" by Kyiv. (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky accuses North Korea of sending troops to aid Russia, calls for more military support from 'partners'

Ukraine's Parliament has approved&nbsp;the first major wartime tax increases on Thursday to shore up finances as war with Russia drags on with no end in sight.

Yaroslav Zhelezniak, a lawmaker from the Holos party, said 247 of 450 deputies in the Verkhovna Rada approved the increase.

Ukraine spends the bulk of its revenue on funding its army, and the current level of taxation has been insufficient to cover rising defence spending, which has boomed since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, the finance ministry said.

Foreign financial aid remains vital for Ukraine to be able to balance its budget in the coming year.

Since the start of Russia's invasion, Ukraine has received nearly $100 billion in Western economic aid, which helps to pay pensions, public sector wages and other social spending.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreans-deployed-alongside-russian-troops-to-fight-with-ukraine-kremlin-rejects-fake-claims-766328">North Koreans deployed alongside Russian troops to fight with Ukraine; Kremlin rejects 'fake' claims</a>

Kyiv needs another $12 billion by the end of 2024 to spend on defence. Next year's budget deficit is expected to total about $38 billion.

The new law includes an increase in war tax from 1.5% to 5% for residents, higher taxes for individual entrepreneurs and small businesses, a 50% tax on banks' profits, and a 25% tax on the profits of financial companies.

Iryna Geraschenko, a lawmaker from the opposition European Solidarity party, said the new taxes would apply retroactively from the start of October.

It was not immediately clear how much additional money would be raised after lawmakers introduced a number of amendments during the debates, which were closed to the public for wartime security reasons.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/isis-linked-5-israelis-arrested-for-plotting-car-bombing-in-tel-aviv-mall-766322">IS-linked 5 Israelis arrested for plotting car-bombing in Tel Aviv mall</a>

The legislation still needs to be signed by President Volodymyr Zelensky before it enters force.

In addition to the new taxes, the government has increased its borrowing on the domestic market and restructured Ukraine's foreign debt, saving $11.4 billion over the next three years.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ukraine's Parliament has approved the first major wartime tax increases on Thursday to shore up finances as war with Russia drags on with no end in sight. Yaroslav Zhelezniak, a lawmaker from the Holos party, said 247 of 450 deputies in the Verkhovna Rada approved the increase.

Ukraine's Parliament has approved the first major wartime tax increases on Thursday to shore up finances as war with Russia drags on with no end in sight. Yaroslav Zhelezniak, a lawmaker from the Holos party, said 247 of 450 deputies in the Verkhovna Rada approved the increase. Ukraine spends the bulk of its revenue on funding its army, and the current level of taxation has been insufficient to cover rising defence spending, which has boomed since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, the finance ministry said. Foreign financial aid remains vital for Ukraine to be able to balance its budget in the coming year. Since the start of Russia's invasion, Ukraine has received nearly $100 billion in Western economic aid, which helps to pay pensions, public sector wages and other social spending. Also Read | North Koreans deployed alongside Russian troops to fight with Ukraine; Kremlin rejects 'fake' claims Kyiv needs another $12 billion by the end of 2024 to spend on defence. Next year's budget deficit is expected to total about $38 billion. The new law includes an increase in war tax from 1.5% to 5% for residents, higher taxes for individual entrepreneurs and small businesses, a 50% tax on banks' profits, and a 25% tax on the profits of financial companies. Iryna Geraschenko, a lawmaker from the opposition European Solidarity party, said the new taxes would apply retroactively from the start of October. It was not immediately clear how much additional money would be raised after lawmakers introduced a number of amendments during the debates, which were closed to the public for wartime security reasons. Also Read | IS-linked 5 Israelis arrested for plotting car-bombing in Tel Aviv mall The legislation still needs to be signed by President Volodymyr Zelensky before it enters force. In addition to the new taxes, the government has increased its borrowing on the domestic market and restructured Ukraine's foreign debt, saving $11.4 billion over the next three years. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ukraine’s parliament approves first wartime tax hikes to shore up finances amid ongoing conflict with Russia

When Ukrainian forces stormed across the border with Russia in August, they set two historic milestones. It was the first time since World War Two that a foreign army had thrust into Russia. &nbsp;

It was also the first time that a non-nuclear country had carried out a major incursion into the territory of a nuclear superpower, a country that has the world’s biggest nuclear arsenal. It was an operation that threw doubt over what military strategists call nuclear deterrence theory. &nbsp;

That theory dates back to 1949, when the Soviet Union detonated its first atomic bomb in 1949, four years after the first and so far only use of nuclear weapons—the American bombs that destroyed the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and killed more than 200,000 people, mostly civilians. &nbsp;

The Soviet test of its bomb prompted countries from Asia, Europe, and the Middle East to pursue nuclear weapons of their own. Over the decades, the nuclear club grew to nine—the United States, Russia, Britain, France, China, India, Pakistan, North Korea and Israel. &nbsp;

While there have been limited military conflicts between nuclear-armed countries—India has had borders skirmishes with Pakistan and China—none have used nuclear weapons. That restraint has roots in a Cold War concept developed by the US and then Soviet Union—MAD, short for Mutually Assured Destruction. &nbsp;

The awesome power of nuclear arsenals led to the assumption that no country fielding only conventional weapons would strike into the territory of a nuclear power. &nbsp;

Ukraine put that belief to the test on August 6, when more than 10,000 Ukrainian troops backed by tanks and armoured vehicles stormed into Russia’s Kursk region and seized roughly 1,250 square kilometres of Russian territory. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said his troops had taken control of 92 settlements in the first two weeks of the assault. &nbsp;

Since Russia launched an unprovoked all-out war on Ukraine in February 2022, President Vladimir Putin has issued veiled threats to use tactical nuclear weapons in the conflict. In June, Russia and its neighbour and close ally Belarus carried out exercises to simulate the deployment of such weapons. &nbsp;

They are designed for battlefield use, unlike strategic weapons developed for vast distances, such as from Russia to the United States or one of its European allies. Though they are not as powerful as strategic weapons, the battlefield versions match the destructive power of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombs. &nbsp;

According to published Russian military doctrine, a threat to the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity would justify the use of nuclear weapons. Apparently, Ukrainian control of a sizeable chunk of the Kursk region does not qualify. &nbsp;

Oddly, Kremlin propaganda has refrained from reminding citizens of the outside role Kursk played in what Russians call the Great Patriotic War against Nazi Germany. &nbsp;

The battle of Kursk, in July and August 1943, was the largest tank battle in history, involving 6,000 tanks, close to two million soldiers, and 4,000 aircraft. It ended with a German defeat and was a turning point, a few months after the famous Battle of Stalingrad, in the war the Nazis lost in 1945. &nbsp;

No tactical nuclear weapon&nbsp;has been used since the beginning of the nuclear age, partly because of the risk of triggering a full-sale nuclear war, partly because of deadly radiation that would cause long-term health damage to survivors, partly because of radioactive fallout that would contaminate air, soil, water, and the food supply, experts say. &nbsp;

Last month’s Ukrainian thrust into Kursk had several military objectives—force Russia to redeploy units from grinding battles in the east of the country, seize territory and take prisoners that might be used for bargaining leverage in possible future peace negotiations, and show the Russian population that the war Putin started could hurt them inside their own country. &nbsp;

But the operation also carried a message for the administration of US&nbsp;President Joe Biden—you have been wrong in hesitating and delaying the supply of sophisticated weapons for fear of escalating the conflict by crossing a Russian "red line." In a speech on August 19, Zelensky called American fears of Russian red lines "a naïve, illusory concept." &nbsp;

American military and economic aid to Ukraine has been a contentious subject, with former US President Donald Trump and many of his Republican backers opposed and Democrats firmly in favour. &nbsp;

Wrangling in Congress led to a four-month pause in supplies and a halt on a $61 billion aid package providing for artillery, air defence systems and missiles. &nbsp;

None of them have sufficient range to strike deep into Russia and hit the air bases and supply depots Russia has been using for a devastating attack on Ukraine’s infrastructure. Zelensky’s calls for longer-range missiles have been rebuffed, again, for fears that their supply would draw the US&nbsp;more deeply into the conflict. &nbsp;

Russia’s nuclear warnings have come against the background of what some experts are calling a new nuclear arms race at a time of major arms control setbacks. Last year, Russia suspended its participation in the 2010 Treaty on Measures for the Reduction and Limitation of Strategic Nuclear Arms, better known as New START. &nbsp;

That is bound to expire in February 2026, by which time there will be no major treaty limits on the number of strategic weapons the United States and Russia deploy. China, whose nuclear arsenal is growing rapidly, halted nuclear arms control talks with the United States in July in protest of US&nbsp;arms sales to Taiwan. &nbsp;

While China lags far behind the US&nbsp;and Russia, its nuclear arsenal is now the world’s third-largest. It is estimated at around 500 warheads, a number expected to double before the end of the decade. &nbsp;

Relations between China and Russia have grown so close that a statement was released at the end of a summit in Washington to mark the 75th anniversary of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). The statement termed the government of Beijing a decisive enabler of Russia's war on Ukraine.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Which helps explain Biden’s caution on dealing with the largest conflict in Europe since World War II. The present constellation of forces makes telling the difference between a serious red line and a bluff, a tricky business. &nbsp;

When Ukrainian forces stormed across the border with Russia in August, they set two historic milestones. It was the first time since World War Two that a foreign army had thrust into Russia.

When Ukrainian forces stormed across the border with Russia in August, they set two historic milestones. It was the first time since World War Two that a foreign army had thrust into Russia. It was also the first time that a non-nuclear country had carried out a major incursion into the territory of a nuclear superpower, a country that has the world’s biggest nuclear arsenal. It was an operation that threw doubt over what military strategists call nuclear deterrence theory. That theory dates back to 1949, when the Soviet Union detonated its first atomic bomb in 1949, four years after the first and so far only use of nuclear weapons—the American bombs that destroyed the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and killed more than 200,000 people, mostly civilians. The Soviet test of its bomb prompted countries from Asia, Europe, and the Middle East to pursue nuclear weapons of their own. Over the decades, the nuclear club grew to nine—the United States, Russia, Britain, France, China, India, Pakistan, North Korea and Israel. While there have been limited military conflicts between nuclear-armed countries—India has had borders skirmishes with Pakistan and China—none have used nuclear weapons. That restraint has roots in a Cold War concept developed by the US and then Soviet Union—MAD, short for Mutually Assured Destruction. The awesome power of nuclear arsenals led to the assumption that no country fielding only conventional weapons would strike into the territory of a nuclear power. Ukraine put that belief to the test on August 6, when more than 10,000 Ukrainian troops backed by tanks and armoured vehicles stormed into Russia’s Kursk region and seized roughly 1,250 square kilometres of Russian territory. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said his troops had taken control of 92 settlements in the first two weeks of the assault. Since Russia launched an unprovoked all-out war on Ukraine in February 2022, President Vladimir Putin has issued veiled threats to use tactical nuclear weapons in the conflict. In June, Russia and its neighbour and close ally Belarus carried out exercises to simulate the deployment of such weapons. They are designed for battlefield use, unlike strategic weapons developed for vast distances, such as from Russia to the United States or one of its European allies. Though they are not as powerful as strategic weapons, the battlefield versions match the destructive power of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombs. According to published Russian military doctrine, a threat to the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity would justify the use of nuclear weapons. Apparently, Ukrainian control of a sizeable chunk of the Kursk region does not qualify. Oddly, Kremlin propaganda has refrained from reminding citizens of the outside role Kursk played in what Russians call the Great Patriotic War against Nazi Germany. The battle of Kursk, in July and August 1943, was the largest tank battle in history, involving 6,000 tanks, close to two million soldiers, and 4,000 aircraft. It ended with a German defeat and was a turning point, a few months after the famous Battle of Stalingrad, in the war the Nazis lost in 1945. No tactical nuclear weapon has been used since the beginning of the nuclear age, partly because of the risk of triggering a full-sale nuclear war, partly because of deadly radiation that would cause long-term health damage to survivors, partly because of radioactive fallout that would contaminate air, soil, water, and the food supply, experts say. Last month’s Ukrainian thrust into Kursk had several military objectives—force Russia to redeploy units from grinding battles in the east of the country, seize territory and take prisoners that might be used for bargaining leverage in possible future peace negotiations, and show the Russian population that the war Putin started could hurt them inside their own country. But the operation also carried a message for the administration of US President Joe Biden—you have been wrong in hesitating and delaying the supply of sophisticated weapons for fear of escalating the conflict by crossing a Russian "red line." In a speech on August 19, Zelensky called American fears of Russian red lines "a naïve, illusory concept." American military and economic aid to Ukraine has been a contentious subject, with former US President Donald Trump and many of his Republican backers opposed and Democrats firmly in favour. Wrangling in Congress led to a four-month pause in supplies and a halt on a $61 billion aid package providing for artillery, air defence systems and missiles. None of them have sufficient range to strike deep into Russia and hit the air bases and supply depots Russia has been using for a devastating attack on Ukraine’s infrastructure. Zelensky’s calls for longer-range missiles have been rebuffed, again, for fears that their supply would draw the US more deeply into the conflict. Russia’s nuclear warnings have come against the background of what some experts are calling a new nuclear arms race at a time of major arms control setbacks. Last year, Russia suspended its participation in the 2010 Treaty on Measures for the Reduction and Limitation of Strategic Nuclear Arms, better known as New START. That is bound to expire in February 2026, by which time there will be no major treaty limits on the number of strategic weapons the United States and Russia deploy. China, whose nuclear arsenal is growing rapidly, halted nuclear arms control talks with the United States in July in protest of US arms sales to Taiwan. While China lags far behind the US and Russia, its nuclear arsenal is now the world’s third-largest. It is estimated at around 500 warheads, a number expected to double before the end of the decade. Relations between China and Russia have grown so close that a statement was released at the end of a summit in Washington to mark the 75th anniversary of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). The statement termed the government of Beijing a decisive enabler of Russia's war on Ukraine. Which helps explain Biden’s caution on dealing with the largest conflict in Europe since World War II. The present constellation of forces makes telling the difference between a serious red line and a bluff, a tricky business.

Ukraine's thrust into Russia up-ends assumptions on nuclear war  

President Vladimir Putin on Monday ordered the regular size of the Russian army to be increased by 180,000 troops to 1.5 million active servicemen in a move that would make it the second largest in the world after China's.

In a decree published on the Kremlin's website, Putin ordered the overall size of the armed forces to be increased to 2.38 million people, of which he said 1.5 million should be active servicemen.

According to data from the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), a leading military think tank, such an increase would see Russia leapfrog the United States and India in terms of the number of active combat soldiers it has at its disposal and be second only to China in size. The IISS said Beijing has just over 2 million active duty service personnel.

The move, the third time Putin has expanded the army's ranks since sending his military into Ukraine in February 2022, comes as Russian forces push forward in eastern Ukraine on parts of a vast 1,000 km (627-mile) frontline and try to eject Ukrainian forces from Russia's Kursk region.

Although Russia has a population more than three times larger than Ukraine's and has been successfully recruiting volunteers on lucrative contracts to fight in Ukraine, it has - like Kyiv's forces - been sustaining heavy battlefield losses, and there is no sign of the war ending anytime soon.

Both sides say the exact size of their losses is a military secret.

Andrei Kartapolov, chairman of Russia's lower house of parliament's defence committee, said the increase in active troop numbers was part of a plan to overhaul the armed forces and gradually increase their size to match what he described as the current international situation and the behaviour of "our former foreign partners."

"For example, we now need to form new structures and military units to ensure security in the north-west (of Russia) since Finland, with which we border, has joined the NATO bloc," Kartapolov told Parlamentskaya Gazeta, the Russian parliament's in-house newspaper.

"And in order to carry out this process, we need to increase the number of troops."

<h2>Third increase since 2022</h2>

Putin since 2022 had previously ordered two official increases in the number of combat troops - by 137,000 and 170,000 respectively.

In addition, Russia mobilised over 300,000 soldiers in September and October 2022 in an exercise which prompted tens of thousands of draft-age men to flee the country.

The Kremlin has said that no new mobilisation is planned for now, however, and that the idea is to continue to rely on volunteers signing up to fight in Ukraine.

Dara Massicot, an expert in the Russian military at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace think tank, questioned whether Moscow was ready to foot the bill for the increase in active servicemen.

"There are ways to staff a standing 1.5 million force but the Kremlin will not like them if they are truly grappling with what that requires," Massicot wrote on X.

"Are they really able to boost the defense budget to sustain procurement AND this requirement?"

Massicot, who has released a report on Russia's drive to regenerate its army, said Moscow could take the unpopular and difficult decision of expanding the draft size or change the law to allow more women to work in the military to reach such a goal.

"Look for signs that this is a real initiative to recruit and expand, and not a kind of show to intimidate others. The current volunteer method is working but has strains. This (the expansion) means more expense/strain," she said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

President Vladimir Putin on Monday ordered the regular size of the Russian army to be increased by 180,000 troops to 1.5 million active servicemen in a move that would make it the second largest in the world after China's.

President Vladimir Putin on Monday ordered the regular size of the Russian army to be increased by 180,000 troops to 1.5 million active servicemen in a move that would make it the second largest in the world after China's. In a decree published on the Kremlin's website, Putin ordered the overall size of the armed forces to be increased to 2.38 million people, of which he said 1.5 million should be active servicemen. According to data from the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), a leading military think tank, such an increase would see Russia leapfrog the United States and India in terms of the number of active combat soldiers it has at its disposal and be second only to China in size. The IISS said Beijing has just over 2 million active duty service personnel. The move, the third time Putin has expanded the army's ranks since sending his military into Ukraine in February 2022, comes as Russian forces push forward in eastern Ukraine on parts of a vast 1,000 km (627-mile) frontline and try to eject Ukrainian forces from Russia's Kursk region. Although Russia has a population more than three times larger than Ukraine's and has been successfully recruiting volunteers on lucrative contracts to fight in Ukraine, it has - like Kyiv's forces - been sustaining heavy battlefield losses, and there is no sign of the war ending anytime soon. Both sides say the exact size of their losses is a military secret. Andrei Kartapolov, chairman of Russia's lower house of parliament's defence committee, said the increase in active troop numbers was part of a plan to overhaul the armed forces and gradually increase their size to match what he described as the current international situation and the behaviour of "our former foreign partners." "For example, we now need to form new structures and military units to ensure security in the north-west (of Russia) since Finland, with which we border, has joined the NATO bloc," Kartapolov told Parlamentskaya Gazeta, the Russian parliament's in-house newspaper. "And in order to carry out this process, we need to increase the number of troops." Third increase since 2022 Putin since 2022 had previously ordered two official increases in the number of combat troops - by 137,000 and 170,000 respectively. In addition, Russia mobilised over 300,000 soldiers in September and October 2022 in an exercise which prompted tens of thousands of draft-age men to flee the country. The Kremlin has said that no new mobilisation is planned for now, however, and that the idea is to continue to rely on volunteers signing up to fight in Ukraine. Dara Massicot, an expert in the Russian military at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace think tank, questioned whether Moscow was ready to foot the bill for the increase in active servicemen. "There are ways to staff a standing 1.5 million force but the Kremlin will not like them if they are truly grappling with what that requires," Massicot wrote on X. "Are they really able to boost the defense budget to sustain procurement AND this requirement?" Massicot, who has released a report on Russia's drive to regenerate its army, said Moscow could take the unpopular and difficult decision of expanding the draft size or change the law to allow more women to work in the military to reach such a goal. "Look for signs that this is a real initiative to recruit and expand, and not a kind of show to intimidate others. The current volunteer method is working but has strains. This (the expansion) means more expense/strain," she said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Putin orders Russian army to become second largest after China's at 1.5 million-strong

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Ukraine has put India in the spotlight as a potential peacemaker. While Delhi may soon play a larger role in finding a solution to Europe's long war, it is important that its actions are based on correct assumptions and an understanding of what different peace could mean for Europe and its own interests.&nbsp;

<h2>What kind of peace?&nbsp;</h2>

2.5 years after Russia's aggression against Ukraine, the war is becoming more protracted and a new consensus is emerging that it will end at the negotiating table rather than on the battlefield. This strengthens the position of India - which has always held this view and has good relations with both sides of the conflict - as a possible mediator. While Poland and many Western countries welcome Prime Minister Modi's warnings that "this is not an era for war" and his continued calls for dialogue and diplomacy, we must be fully aware that not every end to this war will be acceptable and celebrated by all. What matters is the kind of peace we seek. How this war ends will have a profound impact on Europe's security architecture and India's strategic interests.&nbsp;

Ukraine and its Western allies still hope that the final settlement of this war will uphold the principles of territorial integrity and sovereignty of states. For them, a lasting peace would require at least a return to the pre-February 2022 situation. Officially, Ukraine still maintains that negotiations must be based on President Zelensky's 10-point plan. Therefore, the Polish-Indian Strategic Partnership Declaration emphasised the call for a 'just' peace, and President Zelensky offered India to host the next peace summit, but on the condition that the declaration from the previous summit in Switzerland be signed.&nbsp;

This scenario could be achieved in two main ways. Either Putin is defeated militarily or he is persuaded to change his mind and withdraw his troops from Ukraine. But more and more people doubt that either option is realistic. &nbsp;

But a negotiated settlement also carries many risks. For Ukraine, any deal on Russia's terms would undermine its statehood, complicate its reconstruction and threaten its very existence. Ukraine needs a peace treaty, not an act of surrender. Europe needs reassurance that Russia will not resume its war against Ukraine or any other member of the European Union or NATO after a few years' pause as it replenishes its arsenal. Every country needs a guarantee that changing borders by force is not an accepted form of modern international behaviour. It will be a mammoth task to negotiate an agreement that is not seen as a victory for an aggressor.&nbsp;

<h2>What if Russia wins?&nbsp;</h2>

This means that Russia can win both on the battlefield and through negotiations. But both solutions would be detrimental not only to the security of Ukraine and Europe but also to India's core strategic interests. If anyone in India is hoping for a Russian victory, they should be careful what they wish for. This would hurt India in three ways:&nbsp;

First, it would send a signal that a great power can openly violate the sovereignty of its neighbour, seize its territory on any pretext and walk away with impunity. This would not only legitimise the flagrant violation of international norms and principles for which India stands, but could also encourage other powers, including in Asia, to follow suit.&nbsp;

Second, it would strain the West's relationship with Russia for the foreseeable future, pushing it further into the arms of China. Without a withdrawal from Ukraine, there can be no return to business as usual in Europe-Russia relations. Russia, cut off from Western markets and possibly under continued sanctions, would have to rely even more on its only partner - China. If India's neutrality in the Russian-Ukrainian war was intended to give Russia an alternative and help it distance itself from China, allowing a Russian victory would have the opposite effect - cementing the Sino-Russian alliance. &nbsp;

Finally, it would undermine US credibility in the Indo-Pacific and weaken all the networks and mechanisms (including QUAD) built up over the years to counterbalance and contain China's rise in the region. With less appetite across Asia to share the fate of Ukraine, the US would find it harder to provide security. Chinese dominance could be more imminent. &nbsp;

<h2>Can Ukraine win?&nbsp;</h2>

But this scenario is based on the calculation that Ukraine is doomed to failure. I would argue, however, that such a possibility is based on a number of false assumptions about the ongoing war. Three of them stand out. &nbsp;

The first is that Russia is invincible. The Poles would be the first to remind you that this is not true, as they were one of the few in history to conquer Moscow in 1612. Poland also defeated the Bolshevik Russian army at the Battle of the Vistula in 1920, which halted the march of Communism into Western Europe and which the British historian Norman Davis has named one of the 18 most important battles in human history. Russia lost a war with Japan in 1905 and again in Afghanistan in 1989. It took the Afghans almost a decade, but they not only repelled the invasion, they also helped to bring about the collapse of the Soviet Union. It proves that even a nuclear Russia can be defeated, although it may take time and possibly a change of leadership in the Kremlin. It will take great courage and a strong will to fight, which the Ukrainians have. It would also require continued foreign military and economic support and the international isolation of Russia. But can Ukraine get any more foreign support?&nbsp;

This brings us to the second misconception widely held in India: that US support for Ukraine will not last much longer after Presidential elections in November this year that may bring back Donald Trump to the White House. Yet, I would say that whoever wins, it is highly unlikely that the US will abandon Ukraine. Not out of morality or some kind of sympathy for the victim. But because continued support for Ukraine serves vital American strategic and security interests.&nbsp;

First, there is business. Of the more than $51 billion in military aid sent to Ukraine, most has gone back to the American defence industry, bringing revenue and jobs to American voters. Second, it is strategic. If the US sees China as its main threat (which it does), why hand victory to China's main ally on a silver platter? Finally, it is security, because it helps to reduce the military arsenals not only of Russia, but also of North Korea and Iran, other main enemies of the US. In fact, the war in Ukraine is costing the US far less in blood and treasure than its 20-year involvement in Afghanistan, yet it is yielding far greater benefits in all dimensions. Therefore, no matter who wins the November elections, he or she may like to continue military aid to Ukraine (possibly in a different form, such as on the basis of a lend-lease agreement), while leaving economic support to European partners.&nbsp;

And here we come to the third misunderstanding of the war in Ukraine. Many in India believe that growing war fatigue in Europe will strengthen anti-war populists and undermine the will to continue supporting Ukraine. But after two and a half years of conflict, we do not see this in the polls or at the ballot box. In fact, pan-continental elections to the European Parliament have returned the very same forces that had vowed to support Ukraine "for as long as it takes". Elections in France and the UK have not turned Europe inwards as many predicted, while the new pro-European government in Poland has redoubled efforts to mobilise resources to rearm Europe and increase support for Ukraine. The European Union and its members have already pledged €77 billion to Ukraine and have already secured a further €50 billion over the next five years. Europe will continue to help Ukraine fight Russian aggression because it fears it could be next. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Europe and India have a common interest in ending the war?&nbsp;</h2>

While a new phase of the war in Ukraine opens up more space for diplomacy, it is still very likely that it will last for years, with negative consequences for Europe and the Global South. Nevertheless, it seems that the final resolution will be dictated by developments on the battlefield. And for all the pessimism, any outcome is still possible. So, as India prepares to play a greater diplomatic role, it must tread carefully lest it help hand Russia a victory in the guise of a 'peace deal'. Not because of Western expectations, but because it would not be in India's own interests.&nbsp;

Apart from the strategic reasons outlined above, it is also not good for India to allow colonial war to succeed. It may be due to a historical misunderstanding of Russia that many Indians do not see the aggression against Ukraine for what it is - a futile attempt to remake an empire. It is true that during the Cold War the Soviet Union supported the decolonisation process, acting in its own interests of competition with the US. But many in the global South overlook the fact that Russia colonised many nations in Europe and Asia in the past. Instead of fighting European colonialism, it was one of the driving forces behind it. The only difference was that the Russian invading armies arrived by land rather than by sea. Now Russia wants to turn back the clock and reverse the process of decolonisation. In 1991, Russia accepted the independence of Ukraine within its current borders and now claims that this was a mistake. It is as if Britain had a change of heart and wanted to take back its former colonies in India.&nbsp;

It is easy to understand why India has so far refrained from condemning Russia's aggression - it has good historical, security, energy and ideological reasons. But at the same time, while Russia is part of India's past, the West is its future. It is the US or Europe, not Russia, that can provide India with the strategic assets it needs to fuel its growth - be it capital and technology, or foreign markets for Indian goods and labour, or advanced weaponry and diplomatic support on the global stage. But as long as India enjoys a relationship of trust with Russia, it could use it to help its friend out of this senseless war.&nbsp;

Paradoxically, India and the West share a long-term interest when it comes to Russia. Both are concerned about the growing Sino-Russian alliance, and a prolonged war in Ukraine does not serve them well. Both would prefer to see non-imperial Russia befriend the West, not China. And that will only be possible if the endgame of the war in Ukraine is acceptable to Ukraine and the West. The world would appreciate India helping to negotiate not just any peace, but the 'just' peace. And that is what makes India's task so difficult.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Ukraine has put India in the spotlight as a potential peacemaker. While Delhi may soon play a larger role in finding a solution to Europe's long war, it is important that its actions are based on correct assumptions and an understanding of what different peace could mean for Europe and its own interests.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Ukraine has put India in the spotlight as a potential peacemaker. While Delhi may soon play a larger role in finding a solution to Europe's long war, it is important that its actions are based on correct assumptions and an understanding of what different peace could mean for Europe and its own interests. What kind of peace? 2.5 years after Russia's aggression against Ukraine, the war is becoming more protracted and a new consensus is emerging that it will end at the negotiating table rather than on the battlefield. This strengthens the position of India - which has always held this view and has good relations with both sides of the conflict - as a possible mediator. While Poland and many Western countries welcome Prime Minister Modi's warnings that "this is not an era for war" and his continued calls for dialogue and diplomacy, we must be fully aware that not every end to this war will be acceptable and celebrated by all. What matters is the kind of peace we seek. How this war ends will have a profound impact on Europe's security architecture and India's strategic interests. Ukraine and its Western allies still hope that the final settlement of this war will uphold the principles of territorial integrity and sovereignty of states. For them, a lasting peace would require at least a return to the pre-February 2022 situation. Officially, Ukraine still maintains that negotiations must be based on President Zelensky's 10-point plan. Therefore, the Polish-Indian Strategic Partnership Declaration emphasised the call for a 'just' peace, and President Zelensky offered India to host the next peace summit, but on the condition that the declaration from the previous summit in Switzerland be signed. This scenario could be achieved in two main ways. Either Putin is defeated militarily or he is persuaded to change his mind and withdraw his troops from Ukraine. But more and more people doubt that either option is realistic. But a negotiated settlement also carries many risks. For Ukraine, any deal on Russia's terms would undermine its statehood, complicate its reconstruction and threaten its very existence. Ukraine needs a peace treaty, not an act of surrender. Europe needs reassurance that Russia will not resume its war against Ukraine or any other member of the European Union or NATO after a few years' pause as it replenishes its arsenal. Every country needs a guarantee that changing borders by force is not an accepted form of modern international behaviour. It will be a mammoth task to negotiate an agreement that is not seen as a victory for an aggressor. What if Russia wins? This means that Russia can win both on the battlefield and through negotiations. But both solutions would be detrimental not only to the security of Ukraine and Europe but also to India's core strategic interests. If anyone in India is hoping for a Russian victory, they should be careful what they wish for. This would hurt India in three ways: First, it would send a signal that a great power can openly violate the sovereignty of its neighbour, seize its territory on any pretext and walk away with impunity. This would not only legitimise the flagrant violation of international norms and principles for which India stands, but could also encourage other powers, including in Asia, to follow suit. Second, it would strain the West's relationship with Russia for the foreseeable future, pushing it further into the arms of China. Without a withdrawal from Ukraine, there can be no return to business as usual in Europe-Russia relations. Russia, cut off from Western markets and possibly under continued sanctions, would have to rely even more on its only partner - China. If India's neutrality in the Russian-Ukrainian war was intended to give Russia an alternative and help it distance itself from China, allowing a Russian victory would have the opposite effect - cementing the Sino-Russian alliance. Finally, it would undermine US credibility in the Indo-Pacific and weaken all the networks and mechanisms (including QUAD) built up over the years to counterbalance and contain China's rise in the region. With less appetite across Asia to share the fate of Ukraine, the US would find it harder to provide security. Chinese dominance could be more imminent. Can Ukraine win? But this scenario is based on the calculation that Ukraine is doomed to failure. I would argue, however, that such a possibility is based on a number of false assumptions about the ongoing war. Three of them stand out. The first is that Russia is invincible. The Poles would be the first to remind you that this is not true, as they were one of the few in history to conquer Moscow in 1612. Poland also defeated the Bolshevik Russian army at the Battle of the Vistula in 1920, which halted the march of Communism into Western Europe and which the British historian Norman Davis has named one of the 18 most important battles in human history. Russia lost a war with Japan in 1905 and again in Afghanistan in 1989. It took the Afghans almost a decade, but they not only repelled the invasion, they also helped to bring about the collapse of the Soviet Union. It proves that even a nuclear Russia can be defeated, although it may take time and possibly a change of leadership in the Kremlin. It will take great courage and a strong will to fight, which the Ukrainians have. It would also require continued foreign military and economic support and the international isolation of Russia. But can Ukraine get any more foreign support? This brings us to the second misconception widely held in India: that US support for Ukraine will not last much longer after Presidential elections in November this year that may bring back Donald Trump to the White House. Yet, I would say that whoever wins, it is highly unlikely that the US will abandon Ukraine. Not out of morality or some kind of sympathy for the victim. But because continued support for Ukraine serves vital American strategic and security interests. First, there is business. Of the more than $51 billion in military aid sent to Ukraine, most has gone back to the American defence industry, bringing revenue and jobs to American voters. Second, it is strategic. If the US sees China as its main threat (which it does), why hand victory to China's main ally on a silver platter? Finally, it is security, because it helps to reduce the military arsenals not only of Russia, but also of North Korea and Iran, other main enemies of the US. In fact, the war in Ukraine is costing the US far less in blood and treasure than its 20-year involvement in Afghanistan, yet it is yielding far greater benefits in all dimensions. Therefore, no matter who wins the November elections, he or she may like to continue military aid to Ukraine (possibly in a different form, such as on the basis of a lend-lease agreement), while leaving economic support to European partners. And here we come to the third misunderstanding of the war in Ukraine. Many in India believe that growing war fatigue in Europe will strengthen anti-war populists and undermine the will to continue supporting Ukraine. But after two and a half years of conflict, we do not see this in the polls or at the ballot box. In fact, pan-continental elections to the European Parliament have returned the very same forces that had vowed to support Ukraine "for as long as it takes". Elections in France and the UK have not turned Europe inwards as many predicted, while the new pro-European government in Poland has redoubled efforts to mobilise resources to rearm Europe and increase support for Ukraine. The European Union and its members have already pledged €77 billion to Ukraine and have already secured a further €50 billion over the next five years. Europe will continue to help Ukraine fight Russian aggression because it fears it could be next. Europe and India have a common interest in ending the war? While a new phase of the war in Ukraine opens up more space for diplomacy, it is still very likely that it will last for years, with negative consequences for Europe and the Global South. Nevertheless, it seems that the final resolution will be dictated by developments on the battlefield. And for all the pessimism, any outcome is still possible. So, as India prepares to play a greater diplomatic role, it must tread carefully lest it help hand Russia a victory in the guise of a 'peace deal'. Not because of Western expectations, but because it would not be in India's own interests. Apart from the strategic reasons outlined above, it is also not good for India to allow colonial war to succeed. It may be due to a historical misunderstanding of Russia that many Indians do not see the aggression against Ukraine for what it is - a futile attempt to remake an empire. It is true that during the Cold War the Soviet Union supported the decolonisation process, acting in its own interests of competition with the US. But many in the global South overlook the fact that Russia colonised many nations in Europe and Asia in the past. Instead of fighting European colonialism, it was one of the driving forces behind it. The only difference was that the Russian invading armies arrived by land rather than by sea. Now Russia wants to turn back the clock and reverse the process of decolonisation. In 1991, Russia accepted the independence of Ukraine within its current borders and now claims that this was a mistake. It is as if Britain had a change of heart and wanted to take back its former colonies in India. It is easy to understand why India has so far refrained from condemning Russia's aggression - it has good historical, security, energy and ideological reasons. But at the same time, while Russia is part of India's past, the West is its future. It is the US or Europe, not Russia, that can provide India with the strategic assets it needs to fuel its growth - be it capital and technology, or foreign markets for Indian goods and labour, or advanced weaponry and diplomatic support on the global stage. But as long as India enjoys a relationship of trust with Russia, it could use it to help its friend out of this senseless war. Paradoxically, India and the West share a long-term interest when it comes to Russia. Both are concerned about the growing Sino-Russian alliance, and a prolonged war in Ukraine does not serve them well. Both would prefer to see non-imperial Russia befriend the West, not China. And that will only be possible if the endgame of the war in Ukraine is acceptable to Ukraine and the West. The world would appreciate India helping to negotiate not just any peace, but the 'just' peace. And that is what makes India's task so difficult.

Can India play a role in ending the war in Ukraine? 

Russia's defence ministry on Tuesday said it had captured the town of Krasnogorivka in eastern Ukraine as well as three villages in different parts of the Donetsk region.&nbsp;

The ministry said Russian troops had "liberated" the town and the villages of Grygorivka, Galytsynivka and Vodiane.&nbsp;

The ministry statement used the Russian names for all four settlements.

Krasnogorivka, which had a population before the conflict of 16,000, is in an area where the front line has remained relatively unchanged for weeks.&nbsp;

The town lies some 20 kilometres (32 miles) west of Russian-held Donetsk and had served as a key stronghold for Kyiv.

It became more vulnerable after the fall of nearby Marinka in December 2023 and Avdiivka in February 2024.

Russian troops have been advancing steadily in the Donetsk region in recent weeks and are closing in on the town of Pokrovsk, a vital logistics and transport hub for Ukrainian forces.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin said last week that seizing the Donbas, Ukraine's industrial heartland which includes the Donetsk region, was Russia's "primary objective".

On the back foot in the east, Ukraine last month launched an offensive into Russia's Kursk region, saying it had seized hundreds of square kilometres.&nbsp;

Ukraine has said one of its objectives had been to halt Russian advances in the east by forcing Moscow to redeploy troops.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

Russia's defence ministry on Tuesday said it had captured the town of Krasnogorivka in eastern Ukraine as well as three villages in different parts of the Donetsk region.

Russia's defence ministry on Tuesday said it had captured the town of Krasnogorivka in eastern Ukraine as well as three villages in different parts of the Donetsk region. The ministry said Russian troops had "liberated" the town and the villages of Grygorivka, Galytsynivka and Vodiane. The ministry statement used the Russian names for all four settlements. Krasnogorivka, which had a population before the conflict of 16,000, is in an area where the front line has remained relatively unchanged for weeks. The town lies some 20 kilometres (32 miles) west of Russian-held Donetsk and had served as a key stronghold for Kyiv. It became more vulnerable after the fall of nearby Marinka in December 2023 and Avdiivka in February 2024. Russian troops have been advancing steadily in the Donetsk region in recent weeks and are closing in on the town of Pokrovsk, a vital logistics and transport hub for Ukrainian forces. Russian President Vladimir Putin said last week that seizing the Donbas, Ukraine's industrial heartland which includes the Donetsk region, was Russia's "primary objective". On the back foot in the east, Ukraine last month launched an offensive into Russia's Kursk region, saying it had seized hundreds of square kilometres. Ukraine has said one of its objectives had been to halt Russian advances in the east by forcing Moscow to redeploy troops. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Russia 'liberates' three villages, towns in eastern Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday (Sep 5) that India, China, and Brazil could act as mediators in potential peace talks between his country and Ukraine.

The leader of the warring nation also said that a preliminary agreement reached between Moscow and Kyiv in Istanbul — during the initial weeks of the war that has already stretched for over 2.5 years — could serve as the basis for the talks. The agreement was never implemented.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:131,&quot;w&quot;:682,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1968}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-creators-react-to-doj-allegations-of-russian-propaganda-in-2024-elections-call-themselves-victims-756068">US creators react to DOJ's allegations of Russian propaganda in 2024 elections; call themselves 'victims'</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:185,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2022}">What did Putin say?</h2>

During the plenary session of the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Russia, the Russian president expressed his belief that India and other friendly nations have a sincere interest in resolving all issues with regard to the ongoing war.

"We respect our friends, partners, who, I believe, are sincerely interested in resolving all issues related to this conflict. This is primarily the People's Republic of China, Brazil, India. I am constantly in contact with our colleagues on this issue. And I have no doubt that the leaders of these countries, we have a trusting relationship with them, sincerely strive to help understand all the details of this complex process."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/7-killed-at-least-40-injured-in-russian-air-strike-on-ukraines-lviv-755820">Russian missile strike on Ukraine's Lviv kills 7, injures 40 others</a>

The Russia-Ukraine war started with Putin's announcement of a 'special military operation' on February 24, 2022.

(More to follow)

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday (Sep 5) that India, China, and Brazil could act as mediators in potential peace talks between his country and Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday (Sep 5) that India, China, and Brazil could act as mediators in potential peace talks between his country and Ukraine. The leader of the warring nation also said that a preliminary agreement reached between Moscow and Kyiv in Istanbul — during the initial weeks of the war that has already stretched for over 2.5 years — could serve as the basis for the talks. The agreement was never implemented. Also read | US creators react to DOJ's allegations of Russian propaganda in 2024 elections; call themselves 'victims' What did Putin say? During the plenary session of the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Russia, the Russian president expressed his belief that India and other friendly nations have a sincere interest in resolving all issues with regard to the ongoing war. "We respect our friends, partners, who, I believe, are sincerely interested in resolving all issues related to this conflict. This is primarily the People's Republic of China, Brazil, India. I am constantly in contact with our colleagues on this issue. And I have no doubt that the leaders of these countries, we have a trusting relationship with them, sincerely strive to help understand all the details of this complex process." Also read | Russian missile strike on Ukraine's Lviv kills 7, injures 40 others The Russia-Ukraine war started with Putin's announcement of a 'special military operation' on February 24, 2022. (More to follow)

Russian President Putin says ‘friends’ India, China, Brazil could act as mediators in peace talks with Ukraine

The Finland&nbsp;government is proposing to ban most Russian citizens from buying property in the Nordic country in a move to protect national security, Defence Minister Antti Hakkanen said on Monday.

Relations between Finland and neighbouring Russia have soured since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, which prompted Helsinki to join the NATO military alliance after decades of non-alignment.

The proposed ban on real estate purchases would exempt dual citizens and Russians with permanent residence in Finland or other European Union nations, and is subject to expert consultations before a later vote by parliament.

"The regulations are aimed at preventing possible hostile influences against Finland," Hakkanen told a press conference.

Finland is already monitoring some 3,500 properties in the country linked to Russian owners, the minister said without elaborating.

Helsinki has for some time sought to limit Russian citizens' property acquisitions near strategic locations based on existing regulations, blocking three in October last year and another three in January this year.

Finland, which shares a 1,340 km (830 miles) border with Russia, has shut all crossings between the teo countries and accused the Kremlin of weaponising migration by encouraging Asian and African migrants to seek asylum there.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

The Finland government is proposing to ban most Russian citizens from buying property in the Nordic country in a move to protect national security, Defence Minister Antti Hakkanen said on Monday.

The Finland government is proposing to ban most Russian citizens from buying property in the Nordic country in a move to protect national security, Defence Minister Antti Hakkanen said on Monday. Relations between Finland and neighbouring Russia have soured since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, which prompted Helsinki to join the NATO military alliance after decades of non-alignment. The proposed ban on real estate purchases would exempt dual citizens and Russians with permanent residence in Finland or other European Union nations, and is subject to expert consultations before a later vote by parliament. "The regulations are aimed at preventing possible hostile influences against Finland," Hakkanen told a press conference. Finland is already monitoring some 3,500 properties in the country linked to Russian owners, the minister said without elaborating. Helsinki has for some time sought to limit Russian citizens' property acquisitions near strategic locations based on existing regulations, blocking three in October last year and another three in January this year. Finland, which shares a 1,340 km (830 miles) border with Russia, has shut all crossings between the teo countries and accused the Kremlin of weaponising migration by encouraging Asian and African migrants to seek asylum there. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Finland plans to ban Russians from buying property

Just weeks after Ukraine received the US-made F-16 fighter jets, one of the coveted jets was destroyed in a crash on Monday (Aug 26), according to United States&nbsp;defence officials.

Speaking to Reuters, a US defence official said that Russian fire does not appear to be the cause of the crash. However, it is yet to be determined what caused the crash — pilot error or mechanical failure.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:113,&quot;w&quot;:586,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1953}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/namibia-to-cull-over-700-elephants-hippos-and-other-animals-for-meat-heres-why-754340">Namibia to cull over 700 elephants, hippos and other animals for meat. Here's why</a>

Kyiv has also confirmed the crash and said&nbsp;that the jet crashed while repelling a Russian air strike.

This marks the first reported destruction of an F-16 in Ukraine, just weeks after Kyiv began taking delivery of the supersonic aircraft.

"F-16 fighters of the Armed Forces of Ukraine were used to repel a missile attack on the territory of Ukraine by the Russian Federation, along with units of anti-aircraft missile troops," the Ukrainian army said.

"During the approach to the next target, communication with one of the planes was lost. As it turned out later, the aircraft crashed, killing the pilot," it added. &nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:328,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2168}">F-16 jets in commission</h2>

On Tuesday (August 27), Ukrainian&nbsp;President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the F-16 jets were used to repel the Russian attack on Monday and it showed good results.

Russia had staged a "massive" missile and drone attack against Ukraine, said the war-torn nation's Air Commander. This was followed by another massive attack on Tuesday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:470,&quot;w&quot;:591,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2310}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-nsa-sullivan-meets-chinese-leaders-amid-beijings-disputes-with-taipei-manila-754296">US NSA Sullivan meets Chinese leaders amid Beijing's disputes with Taipei, Manila</a>

While the pilot who died in the crash has not been identified, a unit of Ukraine had earlier said that&nbsp;one of its pilots, Oleksiy Mes, had died in a crash on Monday (Aug 26) while repelling a Russian air attack.

"On 26 August, while repelling a Russian massive combined missile and air strike, Oleksiy destroyed three cruise missiles and one attack drone," said Ukraine's Western air command unit.

"Oleksiy saved Ukrainians from deadly Russian missiles. Unfortunately, at the cost of his own life," it added.

(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&nbsp;and&nbsp;videos.

Just weeks after Ukraine received the US-made F-16 fighter jets, one of the coveted jets was destroyed in a crash on Monday (Aug 26), according to United States defence officials.

Just weeks after Ukraine received the US-made F-16 fighter jets, one of the coveted jets was destroyed in a crash on Monday (Aug 26), according to United States defence officials. Speaking to Reuters, a US defence official said that Russian fire does not appear to be the cause of the crash. However, it is yet to be determined what caused the crash — pilot error or mechanical failure. Also read | Namibia to cull over 700 elephants, hippos and other animals for meat. Here's why Kyiv has also confirmed the crash and said that the jet crashed while repelling a Russian air strike. This marks the first reported destruction of an F-16 in Ukraine, just weeks after Kyiv began taking delivery of the supersonic aircraft. "F-16 fighters of the Armed Forces of Ukraine were used to repel a missile attack on the territory of Ukraine by the Russian Federation, along with units of anti-aircraft missile troops," the Ukrainian army said. "During the approach to the next target, communication with one of the planes was lost. As it turned out later, the aircraft crashed, killing the pilot," it added. F-16 jets in commission On Tuesday (August 27), Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the F-16 jets were used to repel the Russian attack on Monday and it showed good results. Russia had staged a "massive" missile and drone attack against Ukraine, said the war-torn nation's Air Commander. This was followed by another massive attack on Tuesday. Also read | US NSA Sullivan meets Chinese leaders amid Beijing's disputes with Taipei, Manila While the pilot who died in the crash has not been identified, a unit of Ukraine had earlier said that one of its pilots, Oleksiy Mes, had died in a crash on Monday (Aug 26) while repelling a Russian air attack. "On 26 August, while repelling a Russian massive combined missile and air strike, Oleksiy destroyed three cruise missiles and one attack drone," said Ukraine's Western air command unit. "Oleksiy saved Ukrainians from deadly Russian missiles. Unfortunately, at the cost of his own life," it added. (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.

Ukraine's newly acquired American made F-16 fighter jet crashes; one pilot dead