Sri Lanka's economic collapse in 2022 forced many to seek work abroad. Thousands, including ex-soldiers, took desperate measures, leading them to the war in Ukraine.

Were Sri Lankans fighting in Russia-Ukraine war duped?

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Jun 20) warned South Korea, saying that sending weapons to Ukraine would be a "big mistake". While speaking at a news conference in Vietnam, Putin reacted to a report from Yonhap news earlier on Thursday which said South Korea would review the possibility of supplying weapons to Ukraine in the aftermath of Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un signing a mutual defence pact.&nbsp;

Putin visited North Korea before arriving in Vietnam - a visit which has angered the West.&nbsp;

"With regard to deliveries of lethal weapons to Ukraine to combat zones, this would be a very big mistake. If that happens, then we will take the according decision, which the current leadership of South Korea will probably not like," said Putin, further adding that Seoul had nothing to worry about the pact between Moscow and Pyongyang.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mark-rutte-to-succeed-stoltenberg-as-nato-secretary-general-amid-escalating-global-tensions-733591">Mark Rutte to succeed Stoltenberg as NATO secretary general amid escalating global tensions</a>&nbsp;

"South Korea, the Republic of Korea has nothing to worry about because our military assistance under the treaty we signed only arises if aggression is carried out against one of the signatories. As far as I know, the Republic of Korea is not planning aggression against the DPRK (North Korea)," Putin told reporters.&nbsp;

He warned Seoul against move&nbsp;to supply weapons to Kyiv. Putin said that the supply of lethal weapons to the war zone in Ukraine would be a "very big mistake" and also added he hoped this would not happen.

"And if it does happen, then we will also take appropriate decisions, which are unlikely to please the current leadership of South Korea," added Putin.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-pyongyang-yawn-social-media-buzzes-over-videos-of-bored-putin-at-north-korean-concert-733542">Putin's Pyongyang yawn: Social media buzzes over videos of 'bored' Putin at North Korean concert - See pics</a>&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Putin said he "does not rule out" sending weapons to North Korea and called it repercussions for the West arming Ukraine.&nbsp;

"Those who send these (missiles to Ukraine), think that they are not fighting us, but I said, including in Pyongyang, that we then reserve the right to supply weapons to other regions of the world, with regard to our agreements with the DPRK," Putin said in Vietnam.&nbsp;

"I do not rule this one out," he added.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Russian President Putin gifted pair of hunting dogs&nbsp;

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<h2>Russia considering changing its nuclear doctrine&nbsp;</h2>

Putin also said that Russia was thinking about possible changes to its doctrine on the use of nuclear weapons. The existing doctrine states that Russia may use such weapons in response to a nuclear attack or in the event of a conventional attack that poses an existential threat to the state.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Jun 20) warned South Korea, saying that sending weapons to Ukraine would be a "big mistake". While speaking at a news conference in Vietnam, Putin reacted to a report from Yonhap news earlier on Thursday which said South Korea would review the possibility of supplying weapons to Ukraine in the aftermath of Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un signing a mutual defence pact.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Jun 20) warned South Korea, saying that sending weapons to Ukraine would be a "big mistake". While speaking at a news conference in Vietnam, Putin reacted to a report from Yonhap news earlier on Thursday which said South Korea would review the possibility of supplying weapons to Ukraine in the aftermath of Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un signing a mutual defence pact. Putin visited North Korea before arriving in Vietnam - a visit which has angered the West. "With regard to deliveries of lethal weapons to Ukraine to combat zones, this would be a very big mistake. If that happens, then we will take the according decision, which the current leadership of South Korea will probably not like," said Putin, further adding that Seoul had nothing to worry about the pact between Moscow and Pyongyang. Also read: Mark Rutte to succeed Stoltenberg as NATO secretary general amid escalating global tensions "South Korea, the Republic of Korea has nothing to worry about because our military assistance under the treaty we signed only arises if aggression is carried out against one of the signatories. As far as I know, the Republic of Korea is not planning aggression against the DPRK (North Korea)," Putin told reporters. He warned Seoul against move to supply weapons to Kyiv. Putin said that the supply of lethal weapons to the war zone in Ukraine would be a "very big mistake" and also added he hoped this would not happen. "And if it does happen, then we will also take appropriate decisions, which are unlikely to please the current leadership of South Korea," added Putin. Also read: Putin's Pyongyang yawn: Social media buzzes over videos of 'bored' Putin at North Korean concert - See pics Meanwhile, Putin said he "does not rule out" sending weapons to North Korea and called it repercussions for the West arming Ukraine. "Those who send these (missiles to Ukraine), think that they are not fighting us, but I said, including in Pyongyang, that we then reserve the right to supply weapons to other regions of the world, with regard to our agreements with the DPRK," Putin said in Vietnam. "I do not rule this one out," he added. Watch: Russian President Putin gifted pair of hunting dogs × Russia considering changing its nuclear doctrine Putin also said that Russia was thinking about possible changes to its doctrine on the use of nuclear weapons. The existing doctrine states that Russia may use such weapons in response to a nuclear attack or in the event of a conventional attack that poses an existential threat to the state. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea would be making 'big mistake' if it supplies arms to Ukraine, says Putin

Russia said on Friday (June 21) that it neutralised 114 drones launched by Ukraine overnight, with at least one person killed in the attacks. In a statement, the defence ministry said that Russian anti-aerial defence systems intercepted and destroyed 70 drones over Crimea and the Black Sea, 43 drones over the Krasnodar region, and one drone over Volgograd.

Russia said on Friday (June 21) that it neutralised 114 drones launched by Ukraine overnight, with at least one person killed in the attacks. In a statement, the defence ministry said that Russian anti-aerial defence systems intercepted and destroyed 70 drones over Crimea and the Black Sea, 43 drones over the Krasnodar region, and one drone over Volgograd. The victim killed in the attacks was an employee of a heating station in Krasnodar, according to Regional Governor Venyamin Kondratyev. In a post on Telegram, Regional Governor Kondratyev said the person was killed when a drone struck the facility near the Yuzhny train station. Several administrative buildings at an oil refinery were also damaged in Severski district, he added. Russia ruins seven Ukrainian ammunition depots On Thursday, the Russian defence ministry claimed it ruined seven ammunition depots in Ukraine as well as equipment, including armoured vehicles, infantry fighting vehicles, electronic radar stations, and howitzers. Also read | Data Lab | Ripple effects of Ukraine conflict: Ukrainian military & global defence sector's hiring surge The war between Russia and Ukraine has been going on for more than two years now. In recent months, Ukraine has upped its attacks on Russian territory, targeting energy sites. Russian missile and drone strikes aimed at Ukraine's energy infrastructure have crippled the country's electricity generation capacity and have forced Kyiv to impose rolling blackouts and import electricity from the European Union (EU). Zelensky calls for measures to preserve energy system Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday announced a set of measures to protect his country's energy system, including protection for plants coming under Russian fire and the development of alternative renewable energy sources. "Life in Ukraine must be preserved and that includes in particular energy security," President Zelensky said in his nightly video address. Also watch | Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes × He outlined plans to minimise the effects of such attacks, including a programme for developing solar energy and energy storage facilities and a schedule for critical infrastructure sites to come up with alternative energy sources. The work, he said, must be completed before winter. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: Russia neutralised 114 drones launched by Ukraine overnight

The number of children killed in armed conflicts across the world tripled last year when compared to the year prior, said the United Nations, on Tuesday (Jun 18). The international organisation also said that it faced a $40.8-billion funding shortfall across the globe.&nbsp;

<h2>Death toll in armed conflicts rises</h2>

The UN rights chief Volker Turk, on Tuesday, revealed the disturbing number of civilians being killed in armed conflicts across the world to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.&nbsp;

Overall, the number of civilian deaths in armed conflict soared by 72 per cent in 2023, said the UN rights chief citing the data gathered by his office.&nbsp;

Turk noted how killing and injuring of civilians as well as the destruction of vital infrastructure have become a “daily occurrence”.&nbsp;

“Children shot at. Hospitals bombed. Heavy artillery launched on entire communities. All along with hateful, divisive, and dehumanising rhetoric,” said the UN rights chief.&nbsp;

The data, collected by the OHCHR, “horrifyingly” also indicates “that the proportion of women killed in 2023 doubled and that of children tripled, compared to the year prior,” Turk said.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Unconscionable death and suffering’</h2>

Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem are suffering a drastically worsening human rights environment, alongside “unconscionable death and suffering” in Gaza, the UN rights chief said.&nbsp;

Turk also said he was “appalled by the disregard for international human rights and humanitarian law by parties to the conflict” amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;

According to the UN data, over 120,000 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, have been killed or injured because of Israel’s military operation in the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-at-least-17-palestinians-killed-in-israeli-strike-on-gaza-refugee-camp-732858">&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: At least 17 Palestinians killed in Israeli strike on Gaza refugee camp</a>

The war in Gaza has also drawn focus away from the West Bank, where the Israeli army conducts nearly nightly, often deadly, raids.&nbsp;

Since the beginning of the war in Gaza, in October through mid-June, 528 Palestinians, including 133 children, had been killed by Israeli forces or settlers in the West Bank, said Turk.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, 23 Israelis have been killed in the West Bank and Israel in clashes with or attacks by Palestinians, said the UN rights chief.&nbsp;

Turk went on to talk about the Ukraine war and ongoing conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan and Syria. &nbsp;

The recent wave of Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure has destroyed 68 per cent of the war-torn country’s electricity production capacity, “bringing the system to a dangerous tipping point, especially ahead of winter,” said the UN rights chief.&nbsp;

<h2>Lack of funds</h2>

According to Turk, as of the end of May this year the gap between the humanitarian funding requirements and available resources stood at $40.8 billion, which left appeals funded just 16.1 per cent on average.

On the other hand, the global military expenditure in 2023 was $2.5 trillion, which he said was “the steepest year-on-year increase since 2009”.&nbsp;

“In addition to inflicting unbearable human suffering, war comes with a hefty price tag,” the UN rights chief noted.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The number of children killed in armed conflicts across the world tripled last year when compared to the year prior, said the United Nations, on Tuesday (Jun 18).

The number of children killed in armed conflicts across the world tripled last year when compared to the year prior, said the United Nations, on Tuesday (Jun 18). The international organisation also said that it faced a $40.8-billion funding shortfall across the globe. Death toll in armed conflicts rises The UN rights chief Volker Turk, on Tuesday, revealed the disturbing number of civilians being killed in armed conflicts across the world to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. Overall, the number of civilian deaths in armed conflict soared by 72 per cent in 2023, said the UN rights chief citing the data gathered by his office. Turk noted how killing and injuring of civilians as well as the destruction of vital infrastructure have become a “daily occurrence”. “Children shot at. Hospitals bombed. Heavy artillery launched on entire communities. All along with hateful, divisive, and dehumanising rhetoric,” said the UN rights chief. The data, collected by the OHCHR, “horrifyingly” also indicates “that the proportion of women killed in 2023 doubled and that of children tripled, compared to the year prior,” Turk said. ‘Unconscionable death and suffering’ Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem are suffering a drastically worsening human rights environment, alongside “unconscionable death and suffering” in Gaza, the UN rights chief said. Turk also said he was “appalled by the disregard for international human rights and humanitarian law by parties to the conflict” amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. According to the UN data, over 120,000 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, have been killed or injured because of Israel’s military operation in the Palestinian enclave. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: At least 17 Palestinians killed in Israeli strike on Gaza refugee camp The war in Gaza has also drawn focus away from the West Bank, where the Israeli army conducts nearly nightly, often deadly, raids. Since the beginning of the war in Gaza, in October through mid-June, 528 Palestinians, including 133 children, had been killed by Israeli forces or settlers in the West Bank, said Turk. Meanwhile, 23 Israelis have been killed in the West Bank and Israel in clashes with or attacks by Palestinians, said the UN rights chief. Turk went on to talk about the Ukraine war and ongoing conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan and Syria. The recent wave of Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure has destroyed 68 per cent of the war-torn country’s electricity production capacity, “bringing the system to a dangerous tipping point, especially ahead of winter,” said the UN rights chief. Lack of funds According to Turk, as of the end of May this year the gap between the humanitarian funding requirements and available resources stood at $40.8 billion, which left appeals funded just 16.1 per cent on average. On the other hand, the global military expenditure in 2023 was $2.5 trillion, which he said was “the steepest year-on-year increase since 2009”. “In addition to inflicting unbearable human suffering, war comes with a hefty price tag,” the UN rights chief noted. (With inputs from agencies)

Number of children killed due to armed conflicts tripled in one year: UN

The world is in the midst of the biggest election year in history with a little over half of the population headed to the polls, but it is also facing an uncertain time with the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war as well as the rise in tensions in the Middle East due to the Israel-Hamas conflict.&nbsp;

Amid this chaotic time, a growing number of people are selectively avoiding news calling it depressing, often repetitive and boring, according to a recent global study.&nbsp;

<h2>Selected news avoidance at record-high</h2>

According to a report by Oxford University’s Reuters Institute, as many as four in 10 (39 per cent) people said that they sometimes or often avoid the news.&nbsp;

The annual Reuters Institute Digital News Report noted that while this has been a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/reuters-survey-reveals-people-are-increasingly-avoiding-news-heres-why-498272">growing trend observed for years now</a>, selected news avoidance is at its highest levels ever recorded.&nbsp;

This year’s report is based on the responses collected from a total of 94,943 adults across 47 countries by YouGov in January and February.

The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, as well as the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, may have contributed to some of the record-high levels of news avoidance reported this time around, according to the Reuters Institute report.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-us-nears-notifying-one-of-the-biggest-ever-arms-sales-to-israel-732635">Gaza war: US sets finger to trigger one of the biggest arms sales to Israel</a>

While the overall interest in news has somewhat stabilised this year, as per the report,&nbsp;the number of people who said that they selectively avoid the news was up by three percentage points to 39 per cent. Notably, this number is 10 percentage points higher than it was in 2017.&nbsp;

The reason for this avoidance, as per the report, has not changed. People who say&nbsp;that they sometimes or often selectively avoid the news say it is often repetitive and boring.&nbsp;

However, others told the researchers that the negative nature of the news makes them feel “anxious and powerless.”

“You’ve had the pandemic (and) wars, so it’s a fairly natural reaction for people to turn away from the news, whether it’s to protect their mental health or simply wanting to get on with the rest of their lives,” the report’s lead author Nic Newman told BBC.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, around 39 per cent said that the news is not only depressing but relentless and they feel “worn out” by the amount these days.

<h2>Interest and trust in news</h2>

Notably, the historic election year has reportedly led to an increased interest in the news with notable rises observed in a handful of countries including the United States. However, the long-term trend is mostly down in every country except Finland, according to the report.

Overall, 46 per cent of people across the world said they are very or extremely interested in news.&nbsp;The number is down from the 63 per cent recorded in 2017. Women and young people make up a significant proportion of that decline, the Reuters report noted.

The trust in news, according to the report, remained stable at 40 per cent, four points lower than it was at the height of the pandemic.&nbsp;

<h2>People turn to social media</h2>

According to the report, a majority of the respondents continued to identify platforms including social media, aggregators, and search engines as their main gateway to online news. However, only 22 per cent identified news websites or apps as their main source of online news.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the audience for traditional news sources like newspapers or television has seen a sharp decline.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the report also noted a “strong shift” towards video-based platforms like YouTube and TikTok as well as Instagram. These platforms have become an important source of news since the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

The growing popularity and reach of social media can no longer be ignored, with politicians taking to TikTok and other networks to reach young voters - from the new Argentinian President Javier Milei who runs a successful TikTok account with 2.2 million followers, to US President Joe Biden whose campaign sparked controversy by joining the popular social media app despite it being banned on most devices used by the American government over security concerns.

However, YouTube and Facebook, according to the report remain the most important platforms for online news videos overall with the former being the go-to for those under 25. On the other hand, older viewers continued to watch their videos on news websites.&nbsp;

The report noted that while mainstream media and journalists often lead conversations on X and Facebook, they fail to garner attention on platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok where online influencers and celebrities are prominent.&nbsp;

<h2>Concerns about misinformation,&nbsp;fake news&nbsp;</h2>

While more people have turned to social media for news, a majority of people in this important year of elections have said they are concerned about the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-ai-generated-propaganda-poses-a-real-threat-this-historic-election-year-694344">reliability of the content online</a>.&nbsp;

More than 50 countries across the world with a combined population of 4.2 billion are expected to hold national and/or local elections in 2024, making it the biggest election year in history.&nbsp;

In the US, while interest in news, due to the election, has risen by five percentage points, around 72 per cent of people said they are concerned about what is real and what is fake on the internet when it comes to online news, according to the report.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/warning-labels-on-social-media-vivek-murthy-calls-for-surgeon-generals-warning-label-for-child-safety-732714">Vivek Murthy calls for 'surgeon general's warning label' for child safety</a>

Similarly, in India, where the world’s largest general election recently concluded, 58 per cent of people shared the same concern.&nbsp;

Overall, six in 10 people (59 per cent) said they are concerned about what is real and what is fake on the internet in the context of online news.&nbsp;

<h2>Facebook, X become less popular in India</h2>

According to the annual report, the trust in news in India rose by three percentage points to 41 per cent.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, those surveyed expressed concerns about widespread misinformation via WhatsApp and other social media. Notably, India has the highest number of WhatsApp users in the world.&nbsp;

For young Indians, according to the report, the main source of news is often social media platforms.&nbsp;

Nearly half of respondents use YouTube (54 per cent) and WhatsApp (48 per cent) for news each week. Meanwhile, the popularity of social media platforms like Facebook and X has dropped in India, according to the report.&nbsp;

Furthermore, despite the general decline in news interest, newspapers (40 per cent) and television (46) remained popular platforms for accessing news for the respondents, particularly due to the general elections.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The world is in the midst of the biggest election year in history with a little over half of the population headed to the polls, but it is also facing an uncertain time with the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war as well as the rise in tensions in the Middle East due to the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The world is in the midst of the biggest election year in history with a little over half of the population headed to the polls, but it is also facing an uncertain time with the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war as well as the rise in tensions in the Middle East due to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Amid this chaotic time, a growing number of people are selectively avoiding news calling it depressing, often repetitive and boring, according to a recent global study. Selected news avoidance at record-high According to a report by Oxford University’s Reuters Institute, as many as four in 10 (39 per cent) people said that they sometimes or often avoid the news. The annual Reuters Institute Digital News Report noted that while this has been a growing trend observed for years now, selected news avoidance is at its highest levels ever recorded. This year’s report is based on the responses collected from a total of 94,943 adults across 47 countries by YouGov in January and February. The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, as well as the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, may have contributed to some of the record-high levels of news avoidance reported this time around, according to the Reuters Institute report. Also Read | Gaza war: US sets finger to trigger one of the biggest arms sales to Israel While the overall interest in news has somewhat stabilised this year, as per the report, the number of people who said that they selectively avoid the news was up by three percentage points to 39 per cent. Notably, this number is 10 percentage points higher than it was in 2017. The reason for this avoidance, as per the report, has not changed. People who say that they sometimes or often selectively avoid the news say it is often repetitive and boring. However, others told the researchers that the negative nature of the news makes them feel “anxious and powerless.” “You’ve had the pandemic (and) wars, so it’s a fairly natural reaction for people to turn away from the news, whether it’s to protect their mental health or simply wanting to get on with the rest of their lives,” the report’s lead author Nic Newman told BBC. Meanwhile, around 39 per cent said that the news is not only depressing but relentless and they feel “worn out” by the amount these days. Interest and trust in news Notably, the historic election year has reportedly led to an increased interest in the news with notable rises observed in a handful of countries including the United States. However, the long-term trend is mostly down in every country except Finland, according to the report. Overall, 46 per cent of people across the world said they are very or extremely interested in news. The number is down from the 63 per cent recorded in 2017. Women and young people make up a significant proportion of that decline, the Reuters report noted. The trust in news, according to the report, remained stable at 40 per cent, four points lower than it was at the height of the pandemic. People turn to social media According to the report, a majority of the respondents continued to identify platforms including social media, aggregators, and search engines as their main gateway to online news. However, only 22 per cent identified news websites or apps as their main source of online news. On the other hand, the audience for traditional news sources like newspapers or television has seen a sharp decline. Meanwhile, the report also noted a “strong shift” towards video-based platforms like YouTube and TikTok as well as Instagram. These platforms have become an important source of news since the COVID-19 pandemic. The growing popularity and reach of social media can no longer be ignored, with politicians taking to TikTok and other networks to reach young voters - from the new Argentinian President Javier Milei who runs a successful TikTok account with 2.2 million followers, to US President Joe Biden whose campaign sparked controversy by joining the popular social media app despite it being banned on most devices used by the American government over security concerns. However, YouTube and Facebook, according to the report remain the most important platforms for online news videos overall with the former being the go-to for those under 25. On the other hand, older viewers continued to watch their videos on news websites. The report noted that while mainstream media and journalists often lead conversations on X and Facebook, they fail to garner attention on platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok where online influencers and celebrities are prominent. Concerns about misinformation, fake news While more people have turned to social media for news, a majority of people in this important year of elections have said they are concerned about the reliability of the content online. More than 50 countries across the world with a combined population of 4.2 billion are expected to hold national and/or local elections in 2024, making it the biggest election year in history. In the US, while interest in news, due to the election, has risen by five percentage points, around 72 per cent of people said they are concerned about what is real and what is fake on the internet when it comes to online news, according to the report. Also Read | Vivek Murthy calls for 'surgeon general's warning label' for child safety Similarly, in India, where the world’s largest general election recently concluded, 58 per cent of people shared the same concern. Overall, six in 10 people (59 per cent) said they are concerned about what is real and what is fake on the internet in the context of online news. Facebook, X become less popular in India According to the annual report, the trust in news in India rose by three percentage points to 41 per cent. Meanwhile, those surveyed expressed concerns about widespread misinformation via WhatsApp and other social media. Notably, India has the highest number of WhatsApp users in the world. For young Indians, according to the report, the main source of news is often social media platforms. Nearly half of respondents use YouTube (54 per cent) and WhatsApp (48 per cent) for news each week. Meanwhile, the popularity of social media platforms like Facebook and X has dropped in India, according to the report. Furthermore, despite the general decline in news interest, newspapers (40 per cent) and television (46) remained popular platforms for accessing news for the respondents, particularly due to the general elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: More people are avoiding news, turning to social media for information, finds study

Ukraine&nbsp;President Volodymyr Zelensky said at the end of the peace summit in Switzerland that Kyiv is ready to hold peace talks tomorrow if Moscow pulls out of Ukrainian territory. Meanwhile, nearly 80 countries called for the “territorial integrity” of Ukraine to be the basis for any <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-summit-world-leaders-slam-putins-peace-terms-as-kyiv-aims-for-broad-consensus-to-end-war-732181">peace agreement</a> amid the ongoing war between Moscow and Kyiv.&nbsp;

<h2>Peace talks ‘tomorrow’ if Russia leaves</h2>

Speaking at the end of the two-day summit which saw the participation of world leaders and representatives from more than 90 countries, Zelensky said, “Russia can start negotiations tomorrow if they pull out of our territories.”&nbsp;

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The Ukrainian president’s remarks came in response to a question by BBC asking if Ukraine’s setbacks on the battlefield had forced him to consider diplomatic moves. However, Zelensky said that was not the case and Russia’s presence at negotiations would demonstrate its willingness for peace.

While speaking to the press, the Ukrainian president also thanked the world leaders who attended the summit and hailed the “first steps toward peace”. Zelensky said Kyiv is also in talks with some countries who offered to host a “second peace summit.”

This was after reports that no country came forward to host another such meeting.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian president also said that the participation of world leaders in the summit held at Burgenstock resort shows that the international support for Kyiv, despite Russia’s pressure, is not weakening.&nbsp;

“We are responding to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine not only with a full-scale defence of human life but also with full-scale diplomacy,” said Zelensky.&nbsp;

<h2>Key regional powers, including India, withhold signatures</h2>

Out of the 92 countries which attended the summit, 78 nations called for the “territorial integrity” of Ukraine to be the basis for any peace agreement to stop the ongoing war between Moscow and Kyiv.&nbsp;

The joint communique which capped the two-day conference marked by Russia and China’s absence was signed by more than 80 countries and international organisations.&nbsp;

The final declaration of the summit referred to the Russian invasion as “war,” a label that Moscow has rejected, and calls for Ukraine’s control over the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and its Azov Sea ports to be restored.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-opts-out-of-joint-statement-at-ukraine-peace-summit-emphasises-on-dialogue-diplomacy-732250">&nbsp;India opts out of joint statement at Ukraine Peace Summit, emphasises on dialogue &amp; diplomacy</a>

The final text was signed by the three main European Union institutions and 27 EU member states. However, key regional powers including India, Indonesia, Brazil, Mexico, South Africa and Saudi Arabia withheld their signatures.&nbsp;

The declaration focused on issues of nuclear safety, food security, and the exchange of prisoners, as well as children removed from Ukraine amid the war.&nbsp;

Swiss President Viola Amherd, in her closing remarks, warned that the “road ahead is long and challenging”.

<h2>Russia mocks the summit</h2>

Meanwhile, Russia continued to ridicule the event from afar.&nbsp;

“None of the participants in the ‘peace forum’ knows what he is doing there and what his role is,” said Dmitry Medvedev, Russia’s former president and now deputy chairman of the country’s Security Council.

The summit is “just another ploy to divert everyone’s attention, reverse the cause and effect of the Ukrainian crisis (and) set the discussion on the wrong track,” Russian President Vladimir Putin said last week.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky said at the end of the peace summit in Switzerland that Kyiv is ready to hold peace talks tomorrow if Moscow pulls out of Ukrainian territory.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky said at the end of the peace summit in Switzerland that Kyiv is ready to hold peace talks tomorrow if Moscow pulls out of Ukrainian territory. Meanwhile, nearly 80 countries called for the “territorial integrity” of Ukraine to be the basis for any peace agreement amid the ongoing war between Moscow and Kyiv. Peace talks ‘tomorrow’ if Russia leaves Speaking at the end of the two-day summit which saw the participation of world leaders and representatives from more than 90 countries, Zelensky said, “Russia can start negotiations tomorrow if they pull out of our territories.” The Ukrainian president’s remarks came in response to a question by BBC asking if Ukraine’s setbacks on the battlefield had forced him to consider diplomatic moves. However, Zelensky said that was not the case and Russia’s presence at negotiations would demonstrate its willingness for peace. While speaking to the press, the Ukrainian president also thanked the world leaders who attended the summit and hailed the “first steps toward peace”. Zelensky said Kyiv is also in talks with some countries who offered to host a “second peace summit.” This was after reports that no country came forward to host another such meeting. The Ukrainian president also said that the participation of world leaders in the summit held at Burgenstock resort shows that the international support for Kyiv, despite Russia’s pressure, is not weakening. “We are responding to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine not only with a full-scale defence of human life but also with full-scale diplomacy,” said Zelensky. Key regional powers, including India, withhold signatures Out of the 92 countries which attended the summit, 78 nations called for the “territorial integrity” of Ukraine to be the basis for any peace agreement to stop the ongoing war between Moscow and Kyiv. The joint communique which capped the two-day conference marked by Russia and China’s absence was signed by more than 80 countries and international organisations. The final declaration of the summit referred to the Russian invasion as “war,” a label that Moscow has rejected, and calls for Ukraine’s control over the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and its Azov Sea ports to be restored. Also Read | India opts out of joint statement at Ukraine Peace Summit, emphasises on dialogue & diplomacy The final text was signed by the three main European Union institutions and 27 EU member states. However, key regional powers including India, Indonesia, Brazil, Mexico, South Africa and Saudi Arabia withheld their signatures. The declaration focused on issues of nuclear safety, food security, and the exchange of prisoners, as well as children removed from Ukraine amid the war. Swiss President Viola Amherd, in her closing remarks, warned that the “road ahead is long and challenging”. Russia mocks the summit Meanwhile, Russia continued to ridicule the event from afar. “None of the participants in the ‘peace forum’ knows what he is doing there and what his role is,” said Dmitry Medvedev, Russia’s former president and now deputy chairman of the country’s Security Council. The summit is “just another ploy to divert everyone’s attention, reverse the cause and effect of the Ukrainian crisis (and) set the discussion on the wrong track,” Russian President Vladimir Putin said last week. (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky says will hold peace talks ‘tomorrow’ if Russia leaves Ukrainian territories

World leaders gathered for the two-day Ukraine peace summit at a Swiss Alpine resort over the weekend slammed Russian President Vladimir Putin and the terms he recently set out to stop the war. Kyiv has sought to use the second day of the major summit to pursue a broad consensus on condemning the Russian invasion and underscoring concerns about the human cost of the ongoing war.&nbsp;

<h2>World leaders slam Putin</h2>

Leaders and representatives from more than 90 countries gathered at the Burgenstock resort in a show of support for Kyiv, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sought to rally support for an international agreement around a proposal to end the war that he could present to Russia.&nbsp;

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Ahead of the summit on Friday (Jun 14), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-slams-wests-hypocrisy-sets-out-conditions-for-peace-talks-with-ukraine-731812">Putin slammed the West</a> and accused it of undermining global strategic stability.&nbsp;

He also said that Russia would be ready for ceasefire talks “tomorrow” if Ukrainian troops withdrew from the four regions claimed by Moscow, and Kyiv gave up its plans to join NATO.&nbsp;

“So far, the West has been ignoring our interests. While they forbid Kyiv to negotiate, they hypocritically call on us to start some sort of negotiations. It just looks idiotic,” said the Russian president.&nbsp;

The proposal was swiftly rejected by Kyiv and its allies.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called the Russian president’s plan “propaganda” that effectively suggested that Ukraine “must withdraw from Ukraine.”&nbsp;

Meanwhile, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called it “dictatorial peace.”

The United States,&nbsp;represented by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-ukraine-peace-summit-us-vice-prez-harris-announces-over-15-billion-in-aid-for-kyiv-732128">Vice President Kamala Harris</a> – a decision that had riled Kyiv – said that Putin is essentially calling for surrender.&nbsp;

She added, “Let nothing about the end of this war be decided without Ukraine.”&nbsp;

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, on Saturday, said Putin “made a mistake” by not attending the summit considering half of the United Nations was present.&nbsp;

“And the fact that Putin yesterday came out with this silly peace proposal shows you that he is clearly panicking. So that’s good news,” Rutte told reporters.&nbsp;

<h2>Kyiv seeks broad consensus</h2>

Most countries gathered have voiced strong support for Ukraine and demanded peace, while others have criticised Russia’s exclusion from the summit and warned Kyiv that it might need to compromise if it wanted to end the war.

The summit, which did not see participation from China and was called a waste of time by Russia, comes as Ukrainian forces have faced a series of setbacks on the frontline and the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza has diverted the world’s attention from Kyiv.&nbsp;

A draft of the final summit declaration seen by Reuters refers to the Russian invasion as “war,” a label that Moscow has rejected, and calls for Ukraine’s control over the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and its Azov Sea ports to be restored.

The talks on Sunday (Jun 16), will be focused on pursuing a joint position on the need for nuclear and food security, and the return of prisoners of war and children removed from Ukraine amid the war.&nbsp;

The draft communique, dated June 13, calls for all illegally deported children sent to Russia and Russian-occupied territory to be returned. It remains to be seen how many countries will back a final joint declaration.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

World leaders gathered for the two-day Ukraine peace summit at a Swiss Alpine resort over the weekend slammed Russian President Vladimir Putin and the terms he recently set out to stop the war.

World leaders gathered for the two-day Ukraine peace summit at a Swiss Alpine resort over the weekend slammed Russian President Vladimir Putin and the terms he recently set out to stop the war. Kyiv has sought to use the second day of the major summit to pursue a broad consensus on condemning the Russian invasion and underscoring concerns about the human cost of the ongoing war. World leaders slam Putin Leaders and representatives from more than 90 countries gathered at the Burgenstock resort in a show of support for Kyiv, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sought to rally support for an international agreement around a proposal to end the war that he could present to Russia. Ahead of the summit on Friday (Jun 14), Putin slammed the West and accused it of undermining global strategic stability. He also said that Russia would be ready for ceasefire talks “tomorrow” if Ukrainian troops withdrew from the four regions claimed by Moscow, and Kyiv gave up its plans to join NATO. “So far, the West has been ignoring our interests. While they forbid Kyiv to negotiate, they hypocritically call on us to start some sort of negotiations. It just looks idiotic,” said the Russian president. The proposal was swiftly rejected by Kyiv and its allies. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called the Russian president’s plan “propaganda” that effectively suggested that Ukraine “must withdraw from Ukraine.” Meanwhile, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called it “dictatorial peace.” The United States, represented by Vice President Kamala Harris – a decision that had riled Kyiv – said that Putin is essentially calling for surrender. She added, “Let nothing about the end of this war be decided without Ukraine.” Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, on Saturday, said Putin “made a mistake” by not attending the summit considering half of the United Nations was present. “And the fact that Putin yesterday came out with this silly peace proposal shows you that he is clearly panicking. So that’s good news,” Rutte told reporters. Kyiv seeks broad consensus Most countries gathered have voiced strong support for Ukraine and demanded peace, while others have criticised Russia’s exclusion from the summit and warned Kyiv that it might need to compromise if it wanted to end the war. The summit, which did not see participation from China and was called a waste of time by Russia, comes as Ukrainian forces have faced a series of setbacks on the frontline and the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza has diverted the world’s attention from Kyiv. A draft of the final summit declaration seen by Reuters refers to the Russian invasion as “war,” a label that Moscow has rejected, and calls for Ukraine’s control over the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and its Azov Sea ports to be restored. The talks on Sunday (Jun 16), will be focused on pursuing a joint position on the need for nuclear and food security, and the return of prisoners of war and children removed from Ukraine amid the war. The draft communique, dated June 13, calls for all illegally deported children sent to Russia and Russian-occupied territory to be returned. It remains to be seen how many countries will back a final joint declaration. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine summit: World leaders slam Putin’s peace terms as Kyiv seeks broad consensus to end war

The ambassadors of the European Union, on Friday (Jun 14) agreed to formally start accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova, said the Belgian EU presidency. The agreement comes amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, and accusations that Moscow is planning to destabilise the government in Chisinau.&nbsp;

<h2>EU agrees ‘in principle’</h2>

Belgium, which holds the six-month rotating presidency of the EU, said that the decision should be officially cleared following the finance and economy ministers' meeting next Friday (Jun 21), reported Reuters.&nbsp;

“Ambassadors agreed in principle on the negotiating frameworks for the accession negotiations of Ukraine and Moldova,” said the Belgian presidency in a post on X. It added that the first intergovernmental conferences will take place on June 25.

The agreement came ahead of the Ukraine peace summit which will take place in the Swiss mountain top resort of Buergenstoc over the weekend in a bid to end the ongoing war between Kyiv and Moscow.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-slams-wests-hypocrisy-sets-out-conditions-for-peace-talks-with-ukraine-731812">Putin slams West's 'hypocrisy', sets out conditions for peace talks with Ukraine</a>

The announcement also comes a week after the EU Commission said both countries met all the criteria for accession negotiations formally to begin. The criteria included efforts to curb the power of oligarchs and better ensure the rights of ethnic minorities.

Ukraine and its neighbouring Moldova had applied to join the 27-nation bloc shortly after the beginning of the Russian invasion in 2022.&nbsp;

However, Hungary, which has close ties to Russia, as well as the new right-wing government in the Netherlands could derail the move. All 27 EU member nations must unanimously agree to formally start the accession negotiations, which could go on for years.&nbsp;

The EU Commission and Belgium had been keen on reaching an agreement before Hungary took over the rotating presidency from July 1 for the next six months. Belgium’s presidency ends on June 30.&nbsp;

Charles Michel, president of the European Council, took to X and welcomed the agreement and said that he looks forward to the first intergovernmental conferences with both, Kyiv and Chisinau.&nbsp;

He added, “We keep our promises and we will support you along the way to membership”.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine and Moldova’s long road to EU membership</h2>

The beginning of the negotiations would lead both Ukraine and Moldova to the start of what is likely to be a years-long process of reforms before they can become members of the 27-nation bloc.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-us-and-canada-accuse-russia-of-interfering-in-moldovan-elections-731567">UK, US, and Canada accuse Russia of interfering in Moldovan elections</a>

Officials in Moldova have repeatedly accused the Kremlin of seeking to destabilise the country, particularly since Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

The United States, Britain, and Canada, on Thursday (Jun 13) accused Russia of carrying out a plot to sway the outcome of the Moldovan presidential election which will take place in October.&nbsp;

According to a statement by the US State Department, Russia is working to exacerbate societal tensions and foment negative perceptions of the West as well as the incumbent government of pro-Western Moldovan President Maia Sandu.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The ambassadors of the European Union, on Friday (Jun 14) agreed to formally start accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova, said the Belgian EU presidency.

The ambassadors of the European Union, on Friday (Jun 14) agreed to formally start accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova, said the Belgian EU presidency. The agreement comes amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, and accusations that Moscow is planning to destabilise the government in Chisinau. EU agrees ‘in principle’ Belgium, which holds the six-month rotating presidency of the EU, said that the decision should be officially cleared following the finance and economy ministers' meeting next Friday (Jun 21), reported Reuters. “Ambassadors agreed in principle on the negotiating frameworks for the accession negotiations of Ukraine and Moldova,” said the Belgian presidency in a post on X. It added that the first intergovernmental conferences will take place on June 25. The agreement came ahead of the Ukraine peace summit which will take place in the Swiss mountain top resort of Buergenstoc over the weekend in a bid to end the ongoing war between Kyiv and Moscow. Also Read | Putin slams West's 'hypocrisy', sets out conditions for peace talks with Ukraine The announcement also comes a week after the EU Commission said both countries met all the criteria for accession negotiations formally to begin. The criteria included efforts to curb the power of oligarchs and better ensure the rights of ethnic minorities. Ukraine and its neighbouring Moldova had applied to join the 27-nation bloc shortly after the beginning of the Russian invasion in 2022. However, Hungary, which has close ties to Russia, as well as the new right-wing government in the Netherlands could derail the move. All 27 EU member nations must unanimously agree to formally start the accession negotiations, which could go on for years. The EU Commission and Belgium had been keen on reaching an agreement before Hungary took over the rotating presidency from July 1 for the next six months. Belgium’s presidency ends on June 30. Charles Michel, president of the European Council, took to X and welcomed the agreement and said that he looks forward to the first intergovernmental conferences with both, Kyiv and Chisinau. He added, “We keep our promises and we will support you along the way to membership”. Ukraine and Moldova’s long road to EU membership The beginning of the negotiations would lead both Ukraine and Moldova to the start of what is likely to be a years-long process of reforms before they can become members of the 27-nation bloc. Also Read | UK, US, and Canada accuse Russia of interfering in Moldovan elections Officials in Moldova have repeatedly accused the Kremlin of seeking to destabilise the country, particularly since Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The United States, Britain, and Canada, on Thursday (Jun 13) accused Russia of carrying out a plot to sway the outcome of the Moldovan presidential election which will take place in October. According to a statement by the US State Department, Russia is working to exacerbate societal tensions and foment negative perceptions of the West as well as the incumbent government of pro-Western Moldovan President Maia Sandu. (With inputs from agencies)

European Union agrees 'in principle' on starting membership talks with Ukraine, Moldova

US Vice President Kamala Harris announced on Saturday (Jun 15) more than $1.5 billion in new aid for Ukraine in the war against Russia. The new aid is mainly for its energy sector and humanitarian assistance. Harris said the aid included $500 million in new funding for energy assistance.&nbsp;

Another $324 million previously announced USAID funding would also be redirected to address emergency energy needs. The new package, from USAID and the State Department, also includes more than $379 million in humanitarian assistance.

Harris is among over 100 leaders and the presidents or heads of the EU, South American, Middle East and Asian countries, who are gathered in Switzerland on Saturday to discuss a peace plan for Ukraine. But, Russia and China's absence is noted.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-blames-china-for-enabling-ukraine-war-threatens-sanctions-732001">G7 blames China for enabling Ukraine war, threatens sanctions</a>&nbsp;

In a statement, Harris said, "This funding will repair energy infrastructure damaged in the war, expand power generation, encourage private sector investment, and protect energy infrastructure."&nbsp;

"These efforts will help Ukraine respond to Russia's latest attacks on Ukraine&nbsp;energy infrastructure by supporting repair and recovery, improving Ukraine's resilience to energy supply disruptions, and laying the groundwork to repair and expand Ukraine's energy system," the statement further read.&nbsp;

Harris said in her statement that this will "help address urgent needs of refugees, internally displaced persons, and conflict-affected communities impacted by Russia's brutal war against the Ukrainian people".&nbsp;

The State Department, with the support of Congress, will provide another $300 million in Ukrainian civilian security assistance, she added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-agrees-in-principle-on-starting-membership-talks-with-ukraine-moldova-731903">European Union agrees 'in principle' on starting membership talks with Ukraine, Moldova</a>&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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<h2>Putin's fresh demand for peace&nbsp;</h2>

The aid was announced a day after Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Moscow would be ready for such talks "tomorrow" if Ukrainian troops withdrew from the Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, Donetsk and Luhansk regions, and also gave up plans to join NATO.&nbsp;

Putin slammed the 'selfish' and 'arrogant' Western powers for bringing the world "unacceptably close" to the point of "no return" as he addressed the Russian Foreign Ministry meeting.&nbsp;

He criticised the actions of the United States and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). He also accused the West of undermining global strategic stability.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

US Vice President Kamala Harris announced on Saturday (Jun 15) more than $1.5 billion in new aid for Ukraine in the war against Russia. The new aid is mainly for its energy sector and humanitarian assistance.

US Vice President Kamala Harris announced on Saturday (Jun 15) more than $1.5 billion in new aid for Ukraine in the war against Russia. The new aid is mainly for its energy sector and humanitarian assistance. Harris said the aid included $500 million in new funding for energy assistance. Another $324 million previously announced USAID funding would also be redirected to address emergency energy needs. The new package, from USAID and the State Department, also includes more than $379 million in humanitarian assistance. Harris is among over 100 leaders and the presidents or heads of the EU, South American, Middle East and Asian countries, who are gathered in Switzerland on Saturday to discuss a peace plan for Ukraine. But, Russia and China's absence is noted. Also read: G7 blames China for enabling Ukraine war, threatens sanctions In a statement, Harris said, "This funding will repair energy infrastructure damaged in the war, expand power generation, encourage private sector investment, and protect energy infrastructure." "These efforts will help Ukraine respond to Russia's latest attacks on Ukraine energy infrastructure by supporting repair and recovery, improving Ukraine's resilience to energy supply disruptions, and laying the groundwork to repair and expand Ukraine's energy system," the statement further read. Harris said in her statement that this will "help address urgent needs of refugees, internally displaced persons, and conflict-affected communities impacted by Russia's brutal war against the Ukrainian people". The State Department, with the support of Congress, will provide another $300 million in Ukrainian civilian security assistance, she added. Also read: European Union agrees 'in principle' on starting membership talks with Ukraine, Moldova Watch this report: × Putin's fresh demand for peace The aid was announced a day after Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Moscow would be ready for such talks "tomorrow" if Ukrainian troops withdrew from the Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, Donetsk and Luhansk regions, and also gave up plans to join NATO. Putin slammed the 'selfish' and 'arrogant' Western powers for bringing the world "unacceptably close" to the point of "no return" as he addressed the Russian Foreign Ministry meeting. He criticised the actions of the United States and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). He also accused the West of undermining global strategic stability. 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 (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine war: US announces over $1.5bn more US energy, humanitarian aid for Kyiv

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Jun 14) slammed the 'selfish' and 'arrogant' Western powers for bringing the world "unacceptably close" to the point of "no return".&nbsp;Putin addressed the Russian Foreign Ministry meeting as he criticised the actions of the United States and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). He accused the West of undermining global strategic stability. &nbsp;

"So far, the West has been ignoring our interests. While they forbid Kyiv to negotiate, they hypocritically call on us to start some sort of negotiations. It just looks idiotic," Putin said during the address.&nbsp;

He also said that Russia would be ready for such talks "tomorrow" if Ukrainian troops withdrew from the Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, Donetsk and Luhansk regions, and also gave up its plans to join NATO.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-reiterates-wont-pardon-son-hunter-biden-id-abide-by-the-jury-decision-731644">Joe Biden reiterates won't pardon son Hunter Biden: 'I'd abide by the jury decision'</a>&nbsp;

"As soon as they declare in Kyiv that they are ready for such a decision and begin a real withdrawal of troops from these regions, and also officially announce the abandonment of their plans to join NATO - on our side, immediately, literally at the same minute, an order will follow to cease fire and begin negotiations," Putin said.&nbsp;

"I repeat, we will do this immediately. Naturally, we will simultaneously guarantee the unhindered and safe withdrawal of Ukrainian units and formations," he added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-g7-leaders-sing-happy-birthday-to-german-chancellor-olaf-scholz-731793">Watch: G7 leaders sing 'Happy Birthday' to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;G7 Summit Italy: Biden vows to support Ukraine 'until they prevail this war'&nbsp;

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<h2>NATO's response to Putin's proposal&nbsp;</h2>

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg responded by slamming&nbsp;the peace talks conditions, calling them a proposal for "more aggression, more occupation".&nbsp;

"This is not a proposal made in good faith. This is a proposal that actually means that Russia should achieve their war aims, by expecting that Ukrainians should give up significantly more land than Russia has been able to occupy so far," Stoltenberg told reporters following a meeting of defence ministers in Brussels.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ukraine rejected Putin's "conditions" to halt the full-scale military offensive which was launched by Russia in February 2022. Kyiv has been trying to corral international support at a major peace summit in Switzerland this weekend.&nbsp;

Both nations have not engaged in any direct peace talks since the first weeks of Russia's campaign when it was advancing on the Ukrainian capital.&nbsp;

Ukraine has called for the full withdrawal of Russian troops from its internationally recognised territory, including the annexed Crimean peninsula, as part of any peace deal.&nbsp;

Notably,&nbsp;Russia claimed to have annexed the four regions in 2022, despite not having full control over any of them.&nbsp;The regional capitals of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia are still in Ukrainian hands.

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

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Jun 14) slammed the 'selfish' and 'arrogant' Western powers for bringing the world "unacceptably close" to the point of "no return".

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Jun 14) slammed the 'selfish' and 'arrogant' Western powers for bringing the world "unacceptably close" to the point of "no return". Putin addressed the Russian Foreign Ministry meeting as he criticised the actions of the United States and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). He accused the West of undermining global strategic stability. "So far, the West has been ignoring our interests. While they forbid Kyiv to negotiate, they hypocritically call on us to start some sort of negotiations. It just looks idiotic," Putin said during the address. He also said that Russia would be ready for such talks "tomorrow" if Ukrainian troops withdrew from the Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, Donetsk and Luhansk regions, and also gave up its plans to join NATO. Also read: Joe Biden reiterates won't pardon son Hunter Biden: 'I'd abide by the jury decision' "As soon as they declare in Kyiv that they are ready for such a decision and begin a real withdrawal of troops from these regions, and also officially announce the abandonment of their plans to join NATO - on our side, immediately, literally at the same minute, an order will follow to cease fire and begin negotiations," Putin said. "I repeat, we will do this immediately. Naturally, we will simultaneously guarantee the unhindered and safe withdrawal of Ukrainian units and formations," he added. Also read: Watch: G7 leaders sing 'Happy Birthday' to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz Watch: G7 Summit Italy: Biden vows to support Ukraine 'until they prevail this war' × NATO's response to Putin's proposal NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg responded by slamming the peace talks conditions, calling them a proposal for "more aggression, more occupation". "This is not a proposal made in good faith. This is a proposal that actually means that Russia should achieve their war aims, by expecting that Ukrainians should give up significantly more land than Russia has been able to occupy so far," Stoltenberg told reporters following a meeting of defence ministers in Brussels. Meanwhile, Ukraine rejected Putin's "conditions" to halt the full-scale military offensive which was launched by Russia in February 2022. Kyiv has been trying to corral international support at a major peace summit in Switzerland this weekend. Both nations have not engaged in any direct peace talks since the first weeks of Russia's campaign when it was advancing on the Ukrainian capital. Ukraine has called for the full withdrawal of Russian troops from its internationally recognised territory, including the annexed Crimean peninsula, as part of any peace deal. Notably, Russia claimed to have annexed the four regions in 2022, despite not having full control over any of them. The regional capitals of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia are still in Ukrainian hands. 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 (With inputs from agencies)

Putin slams West's 'hypocrisy', sets out conditions for peace talks with Ukraine

Since the Ukraine conflict became a NATO proxy war against Russia, there have been frequent reports that the Ukrainian armed forces are planning to use chemical weapons. The Russian defence ministry has repeatedly warned that the Kyiv regime is planning a false flag operation using chemical weapons during Moscow’s ongoing special military operation in Ukraine.

Denis Pushilin, head of the Donetsk People’s Republic, recently announced that the Ukrainian forces have used chemical weapons in the Artemovsk (Bakhmut) and Ugledar areas on the frontlines in Donbass, reports Sputnik, a Russian media house. Pushilin’s adviser, Yan Gagin, added that the Ukrainian side had been using chemical weapons for some time. He mentioned that substances causing nausea, choking and coughing were sprayed from special containers mounted on drones.

But what exactly are chemical weapons, and are they banned internationally? A chemical weapon is any harmful chemical that can cause death, injury, incapacitation, or sensory irritation. These chemicals can be delivered using such systems as artillery shells, rockets, or ballistic missiles. These are considered weapons of mass destruction.

Nerve Agents (sarin, soman, VX): These are considered the most deadly chemical weapons because they can severely damage the central nervous system, leading to death if inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Venomous Agent X, or VX, is a highly toxic nerve agent used as a chemical weapon

Blister Agents (sulfur mustard, nitrogen mustard, lewisite): These chemicals can cause severe burns and blisters on the skin

Choking Agents (phosgene, chlorine, chloropicrin): When inhaled, these agents directly affect the respiratory system, causing respiratory failure

Blood Agents (hydrogen chloride, cyanogen chloride, cyanide): These interfere with the body’s ability to use and transport oxygen through the bloodstream. Small amounts of cyanide might have no effect, but higher concentrations can cause dizziness, weakness, nausea and very strong exposure can lead to severe toxicity and rapid death

Psychotomimetic Agents (BZ): These affect mental health, causing hallucinations and other symptoms related to the disruption of higher nervous functions. BZ, or 3-Quinuclidinyl Benzilate, is a chemical compound that acts as a psychotomimetic agent

Irritant Agents (CS, CR): Also known as riot-control agents, these compounds cause temporary incapacitation by irritating the eyes (leading to tears and blepharospasm) and the upper respiratory tract. They are commonly known as tear gases. CS, or 2-chlorobenzalmalononitrile, and CR/ dibenzoxazepine are chemical compounds used as irritant agents, commonly known as tear gases

<h2>Who was the first to use chemical weapons in warfare?</h2>

Although the German forces were the first to use phosgene on the battlefield during World War I (1914-1918), this choking agent became the main chemical weapon for the Allies. Phosgene caused 85% of chemical weapons-related deaths during WWI.

The first major use of deadly chemical weapons happened during the Second Battle of Ypres on April 22, 1915. The Germans attacked French, Canadian and Algerian troops with chlorine gas released from canisters, which the wind carried toward the Allied trenches. This attack resulted in about 5,000 deaths.

<h2>Are chemical weapons banned?</h2>

The widespread and deadly use of chemical weapons during WWI led to international efforts to ban their use and production. The two main documents addressing chemical weapons are the 1925 Geneva Protocol and the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).

The Geneva Protocol, drafted and signed in June 1925 at the Conference for the Supervision of the International Trade in Arms and Ammunition, prohibits the use of chemical weapons. However, it does not regulate the production, research, or stockpiling of these weapons; nor does it address their use in internal conflicts. Interest in eliminating existing stockpiles of chemical weapons led to the creation of a stronger agreement—the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), in the early-1990s.

The CWC, officially known as the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on their Destruction, is an arms control treaty. It is managed by the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) based in The Hague and came into effect on April 29, 1997. The convention aims to ‘eliminate an entire category of weapons of mass destruction by banning the development, production, acquisition, stockpiling, retention, transfer, or use of chemical weapons by member countries’.

By December 31, 2022, 99% of the world’s declared chemical weapons stockpiles had been destroyed under the CWC. Currently, 193 countries are parties to the convention. Israel has signed, but not ratified the CWC, while Egypt, North Korea and South Sudan have neither signed nor joined the agreement.

<h2>Defence against chemical weapons</h2>

On the battlefield, the first and most crucial defence against chemical weapons is personal protection, such as gas masks and protective clothing, along with collective protection shelters. For civilian populations, who usually lack personal protective equipment and shelters, the best response to a chemical weapons threat is to have well-trained emergency response teams. These teams should be able to identify chemical agents, decontaminate affected areas and people and coordinate rescue operations.&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.)

Since the Ukraine conflict became a NATO proxy war against Russia, there have been frequent reports that the Ukrainian armed forces are planning to use chemical weapons.

Since the Ukraine conflict became a NATO proxy war against Russia, there have been frequent reports that the Ukrainian armed forces are planning to use chemical weapons. The Russian defence ministry has repeatedly warned that the Kyiv regime is planning a false flag operation using chemical weapons during Moscow’s ongoing special military operation in Ukraine. Denis Pushilin, head of the Donetsk People’s Republic, recently announced that the Ukrainian forces have used chemical weapons in the Artemovsk (Bakhmut) and Ugledar areas on the frontlines in Donbass, reports Sputnik, a Russian media house. Pushilin’s adviser, Yan Gagin, added that the Ukrainian side had been using chemical weapons for some time. He mentioned that substances causing nausea, choking and coughing were sprayed from special containers mounted on drones. But what exactly are chemical weapons, and are they banned internationally? A chemical weapon is any harmful chemical that can cause death, injury, incapacitation, or sensory irritation. These chemicals can be delivered using such systems as artillery shells, rockets, or ballistic missiles. These are considered weapons of mass destruction. Nerve Agents (sarin, soman, VX): These are considered the most deadly chemical weapons because they can severely damage the central nervous system, leading to death if inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Venomous Agent X, or VX, is a highly toxic nerve agent used as a chemical weapon Blister Agents (sulfur mustard, nitrogen mustard, lewisite): These chemicals can cause severe burns and blisters on the skin Choking Agents (phosgene, chlorine, chloropicrin): When inhaled, these agents directly affect the respiratory system, causing respiratory failure Blood Agents (hydrogen chloride, cyanogen chloride, cyanide): These interfere with the body’s ability to use and transport oxygen through the bloodstream. Small amounts of cyanide might have no effect, but higher concentrations can cause dizziness, weakness, nausea and very strong exposure can lead to severe toxicity and rapid death Psychotomimetic Agents (BZ): These affect mental health, causing hallucinations and other symptoms related to the disruption of higher nervous functions. BZ, or 3-Quinuclidinyl Benzilate, is a chemical compound that acts as a psychotomimetic agent Irritant Agents (CS, CR): Also known as riot-control agents, these compounds cause temporary incapacitation by irritating the eyes (leading to tears and blepharospasm) and the upper respiratory tract. They are commonly known as tear gases. CS, or 2-chlorobenzalmalononitrile, and CR/ dibenzoxazepine are chemical compounds used as irritant agents, commonly known as tear gases Who was the first to use chemical weapons in warfare? Although the German forces were the first to use phosgene on the battlefield during World War I (1914-1918), this choking agent became the main chemical weapon for the Allies. Phosgene caused 85% of chemical weapons-related deaths during WWI. The first major use of deadly chemical weapons happened during the Second Battle of Ypres on April 22, 1915. The Germans attacked French, Canadian and Algerian troops with chlorine gas released from canisters, which the wind carried toward the Allied trenches. This attack resulted in about 5,000 deaths. Are chemical weapons banned? The widespread and deadly use of chemical weapons during WWI led to international efforts to ban their use and production. The two main documents addressing chemical weapons are the 1925 Geneva Protocol and the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). The Geneva Protocol, drafted and signed in June 1925 at the Conference for the Supervision of the International Trade in Arms and Ammunition, prohibits the use of chemical weapons. However, it does not regulate the production, research, or stockpiling of these weapons; nor does it address their use in internal conflicts. Interest in eliminating existing stockpiles of chemical weapons led to the creation of a stronger agreement—the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), in the early-1990s. The CWC, officially known as the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on their Destruction, is an arms control treaty. It is managed by the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) based in The Hague and came into effect on April 29, 1997. The convention aims to ‘eliminate an entire category of weapons of mass destruction by banning the development, production, acquisition, stockpiling, retention, transfer, or use of chemical weapons by member countries’. By December 31, 2022, 99% of the world’s declared chemical weapons stockpiles had been destroyed under the CWC. Currently, 193 countries are parties to the convention. Israel has signed, but not ratified the CWC, while Egypt, North Korea and South Sudan have neither signed nor joined the agreement. Defence against chemical weapons On the battlefield, the first and most crucial defence against chemical weapons is personal protection, such as gas masks and protective clothing, along with collective protection shelters. For civilian populations, who usually lack personal protective equipment and shelters, the best response to a chemical weapons threat is to have well-trained emergency response teams. These teams should be able to identify chemical agents, decontaminate affected areas and people and coordinate rescue operations. (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.)

Chemical weapons: Double standard? Ukraine's alleged use ignored by West

The United States on Wednesday (Jun 12) announced a new wave of sanctions against Russia amid the ongoing Ukraine war. The sanctions are aimed at restricting Moscow's financial system and its access to products and services needed to sustain military production. More than 300 targets are on the list, including the Moscow Exchange.&nbsp; 
 
The list of sanctions mentioned third-party firms and entities, including dozens of suppliers of electronics in China, the Middle East, Africa, Europe and the Caribbean.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-oil-surplus-to-hit-millions-of-barrels-daily-by-2030-amid-slowing-demand-rising-production-731144">Global oil surplus to hit millions of barrels daily by 2030 amid slowing demand, rising production</a>

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said, "Today's actions strike at their remaining avenues for international materials and equipment, including their reliance on critical supplies from third countries." 
 
"We are increasing the risk for financial institutions dealing with Russia's war economy and eliminating paths for evasion, and diminishing Russia's ability to benefit from access to foreign technology, equipment, software, and IT services," she added. 
 
Yellen further said, "We are increasing the risk for financial institutions dealing with Russia's war economy and eliminating paths for evasion, and diminishing Russia's ability to benefit from access to foreign technology, equipment software, and IT services."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-publicly-hugs-son-hunter-after-latters-conviction-on-federal-gun-charges-731140">Hunter gets hug from father Joe Biden after being convicted on federal gun charges</a>&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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<h2>Russia slams sanctions</h2>

Immediately after the announcement, Russia said&nbsp;it will respond to the "aggressive" sanctions that have&nbsp;ahead of G7 leaders' talks this week in Italy, Russia's foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova was quoted as saying by the state-run TASS news agency, "As always in such cases, Russia will not leave such aggressive actions unanswered."

The US Treasury is also expanding its definition of Russia's "military-industrial base". So far, international banks may face sanctions for assisting Russia's defence industry, but the latest move&nbsp;broadens the scope of secondary measures to include all Russian people and businesses that have previously been targeted by US sanctions. 
 
This means that international financial institutions might face sanctions for performing transactions involving any blacklisted person or designated Russian banks such as VTB or Sberbank, with the list of vulnerable targets rising from over 1,000 to about 4,500.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The United States on Wednesday (Jun 12) announced a new wave of sanctions against Russia amid the ongoing Ukraine war. The sanctions are aimed at restricting Moscow's financial system and its access to products and services needed to sustain military production.

The United States on Wednesday (Jun 12) announced a new wave of sanctions against Russia amid the ongoing Ukraine war. The sanctions are aimed at restricting Moscow's financial system and its access to products and services needed to sustain military production. More than 300 targets are on the list, including the Moscow Exchange. The list of sanctions mentioned third-party firms and entities, including dozens of suppliers of electronics in China, the Middle East, Africa, Europe and the Caribbean. Also read: Global oil surplus to hit millions of barrels daily by 2030 amid slowing demand, rising production Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said, "Today's actions strike at their remaining avenues for international materials and equipment, including their reliance on critical supplies from third countries." "We are increasing the risk for financial institutions dealing with Russia's war economy and eliminating paths for evasion, and diminishing Russia's ability to benefit from access to foreign technology, equipment, software, and IT services," she added. Yellen further said, "We are increasing the risk for financial institutions dealing with Russia's war economy and eliminating paths for evasion, and diminishing Russia's ability to benefit from access to foreign technology, equipment software, and IT services." Also read: Hunter gets hug from father Joe Biden after being convicted on federal gun charges Watch this report: × Russia slams sanctions Immediately after the announcement, Russia said it will respond to the "aggressive" sanctions that have ahead of G7 leaders' talks this week in Italy, Russia's foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova was quoted as saying by the state-run TASS news agency, "As always in such cases, Russia will not leave such aggressive actions unanswered." The US Treasury is also expanding its definition of Russia's "military-industrial base". So far, international banks may face sanctions for assisting Russia's defence industry, but the latest move broadens the scope of secondary measures to include all Russian people and businesses that have previously been targeted by US sanctions. This means that international financial institutions might face sanctions for performing transactions involving any blacklisted person or designated Russian banks such as VTB or Sberbank, with the list of vulnerable targets rising from over 1,000 to about 4,500. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: US unveils new sanctions targeting Russia, Moscow vows 'aggressive' response

A Russian nuclear-powered submarine will visit Havana next week, Cuba's communist authorities said on Thursday (Jun 6). The sub will not be carrying nuclear weapons, but the move has reminded the world of the infamous 1962 Cuban missile crisis.&nbsp;

Cuba's Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces said in a statement that the nuclear submarine Kazan and three other Russian naval vessels, including the missile frigate Admiral Gorshkov, an oil tanker and a salvage tug, will dock in the Cuban capital from June 12-17.&nbsp;

"None of the vessels is carrying nuclear weapons, so their stopover in our country does not represent a threat to the region," the ministry said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-spy-arrested-in-russia-after-macrons-fighter-jet-support-to-ukraine-729606">French 'spy' arrested in Russia following Macron's fighter jets offer to Ukraine</a>&nbsp;

Despite the ministry's clarification that the vessels will not carry nuclear weapons, the unusual deployment has alarmed the West, especially the United States as the Russian military is going to be so close to America. Although, so far, there's no official comment from the US.&nbsp;

The deployment has been announced amid tensions between Moscow and the West over the war in Ukraine, with Russian President Vladimir Putin recently unleashing a slew of new nuclear threats.

Putin responded to the decision by the US and its European allies to allow Ukraine to attack some Russian territory using their weapons, especially long-range missiles.&nbsp;

The Russian president suggested he could provide arms to countries to hit Western targets as he&nbsp;revives nuclear threat once again.&nbsp;

Last month, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel met with his Russian counterpart for the annual May 9 military parade on Red Square outside the Kremlin. Both nations have come closer since a 2022 meeting between Diaz-Canel and Putin.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-succession-plan-out-daughters-appear-at-key-economic-summit-to-support-father-729587">Putin succession plan out? Daughters appear at key economic summit to support father</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Do we know about the 1962 Cuban missile crisis?</h2>

The Cuban missile crisis was a major confrontation between the US and the then-Soviet Union that brought the world to the brink of nuclear war.&nbsp;

The crisis erupted in 1962, which lasted over a month, when the Soviet Union responded to a US missile deployment in Turkey by sending ballistic missiles to Cuba. Then, the Soviet Union, formerly Russia, also included Ukraine.&nbsp;

In 1960, the former premier of the Soviet Union Nikita Khrushchev promised to defend Cuba with Soviet arms, assuming that the US would not prevent the installation of medium- and intermediate-range ballistic missiles in Cuba.&nbsp;

The incident escalated to a level when the world feared a catastrophic nuclear attack. And if launched from Cuba, such missiles could reportedly hit much of the eastern US within a few minutes.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Russia accuses Kyiv of using US&nbsp;ATACMS missiles to hit civilian targets in Luhansk&nbsp;

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Claims and counterclaims continued until then US President John F Kennedy intervened. He was busy with the elections, but when he learned about the installations, he consulted security advisors. He even received suggestions that the US should launch an air strike.&nbsp;

But he decided to place a naval "quarantine," or blockade, on Cuba to prevent further Soviet shipments of missiles. He issued a warning that US forces would seize "offensive weapons and associated material" if Soviet vessels tried to deliver them to Cuba.&nbsp;

The crisis was eventually averted, Soviet ships altered their course and moved away from the quarantined zone, with Khrushchev later in the year informing Kennedy that the missiles already in Cuba would be returned to the Soviet Union and work on the missile sites would be halted.&nbsp;

Some reports have even mentioned that Kennedy had secretly promised to withdraw the nuclear-armed missiles from Turkey and that he committed the US would never invade Cuba.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A Russian nuclear-powered submarine will visit Havana next week, Cuba's communist authorities said on Thursday (Jun 6). The sub will not be carrying nuclear weapons, but the move has reminded the world of the infamous 1962 Cuban missile crisis.

A Russian nuclear-powered submarine will visit Havana next week, Cuba's communist authorities said on Thursday (Jun 6). The sub will not be carrying nuclear weapons, but the move has reminded the world of the infamous 1962 Cuban missile crisis. Cuba's Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces said in a statement that the nuclear submarine Kazan and three other Russian naval vessels, including the missile frigate Admiral Gorshkov, an oil tanker and a salvage tug, will dock in the Cuban capital from June 12-17. "None of the vessels is carrying nuclear weapons, so their stopover in our country does not represent a threat to the region," the ministry said. Also read: French 'spy' arrested in Russia following Macron's fighter jets offer to Ukraine Despite the ministry's clarification that the vessels will not carry nuclear weapons, the unusual deployment has alarmed the West, especially the United States as the Russian military is going to be so close to America. Although, so far, there's no official comment from the US. The deployment has been announced amid tensions between Moscow and the West over the war in Ukraine, with Russian President Vladimir Putin recently unleashing a slew of new nuclear threats. Putin responded to the decision by the US and its European allies to allow Ukraine to attack some Russian territory using their weapons, especially long-range missiles. The Russian president suggested he could provide arms to countries to hit Western targets as he revives nuclear threat once again. Last month, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel met with his Russian counterpart for the annual May 9 military parade on Red Square outside the Kremlin. Both nations have come closer since a 2022 meeting between Diaz-Canel and Putin. Also read: Putin succession plan out? Daughters appear at key economic summit to support father Do we know about the 1962 Cuban missile crisis? The Cuban missile crisis was a major confrontation between the US and the then-Soviet Union that brought the world to the brink of nuclear war. The crisis erupted in 1962, which lasted over a month, when the Soviet Union responded to a US missile deployment in Turkey by sending ballistic missiles to Cuba. Then, the Soviet Union, formerly Russia, also included Ukraine. In 1960, the former premier of the Soviet Union Nikita Khrushchev promised to defend Cuba with Soviet arms, assuming that the US would not prevent the installation of medium- and intermediate-range ballistic missiles in Cuba. The incident escalated to a level when the world feared a catastrophic nuclear attack. And if launched from Cuba, such missiles could reportedly hit much of the eastern US within a few minutes. Watch: Russia accuses Kyiv of using US ATACMS missiles to hit civilian targets in Luhansk × Claims and counterclaims continued until then US President John F Kennedy intervened. He was busy with the elections, but when he learned about the installations, he consulted security advisors. He even received suggestions that the US should launch an air strike. But he decided to place a naval "quarantine," or blockade, on Cuba to prevent further Soviet shipments of missiles. He issued a warning that US forces would seize "offensive weapons and associated material" if Soviet vessels tried to deliver them to Cuba. The crisis was eventually averted, Soviet ships altered their course and moved away from the quarantined zone, with Khrushchev later in the year informing Kennedy that the missiles already in Cuba would be returned to the Soviet Union and work on the missile sites would be halted. Some reports have even mentioned that Kennedy had secretly promised to withdraw the nuclear-armed missiles from Turkey and that he committed the US would never invade Cuba. (With inputs from agencies)

Cuban crisis 2.0? Russian nuclear sub to dock in Cuba after USA's Ukraine misadventure

Russian hackers have claimed responsibility for a recent cyber attack on a Spanish defence firm that is refurbishing Leopard tanks for delivery to war-torn Ukraine, the news agency Reuters reported on Wednesday (June 5).

Russian hackers have claimed responsibility for a recent cyber attack on a Spanish defence firm that is refurbishing Leopard tanks for delivery to war-torn Ukraine, the news agency Reuters reported on Wednesday (June 5). American aerospace and defence company General Dynamics had said that its subsidiary in Spain- called Santa Barbara Systems- was targeted in an attempted cyberattack (on its website) "that was detected immediately and has not compromised any of the company's systems." Also read | Russian group behind ‘very serious’ ransomware attack that impacted London hospital services The subsidiary temporarily disconnected its website until an ongoing investigation concluded. "The company's sensitive data remains well-protected," a spokesperson for General Dynamics told Reuters. The hacking group behind the cyberattack The NoName hacking group from Russia claimed responsibility for the cyber attack. In a post on Telegram, NoName said, "We sent our DDoS (distributed denial-of-service) missiles against websites in russophobic Spain." Also watch | Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes × The group has often directed such actions against countries that support Ukraine. A warning Santa Barbara assembles heavy vehicles such as Leopard tanks and artillery equipment for the Spanish army. The firm has also been involved in refurbishing Spain's mothballed Leopard tanks for delivery to the Ukrainian army. A spokesperson for General Dynamics in Spain told Reuters that the country's national cybersecurity institute had warned Santa Barbara in the past few days about the possibility of such a cyberattack. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian hackers claim cyberattack on Spanish defence firm that is refurbishing Leopard tanks for Ukraine

Ukrainian forces on Monday (June 3) said that they have successfully struck a Russian S-300 missile system with the help of Western-supplied weapons in the Russian territory.

“It burns beautifully. It’s a Russian S-300. On Russian territory. The first days after permission to use Western weapons on enemy territory,” Ukrainian government minister Iryna Vereshchuk wrote on Facebook, along with a picture which purportedly showed the strike.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-advances-in-ukraines-kharkiv-region-to-create-buffer-zone-720105">New front opens in Russia-Ukraine war as Moscow launches surprise offensive</a>

The strikes took place days after United States President Joe Biden allowed Ukraine to carry out limited strikes&nbsp;while making use of US weapons in Russian territory near Kharkiv after various European nations removed restrictions on how they could use the weapons.

It remains unclear if Ukraine used the US-supplied weapons in the strike.

<h2>US stops Ukraine from unleashing most formidable munition&nbsp;</h2>

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised US President Joe Biden for allowing some strikes in Russian territory as a “step forward” which will help the army in defending the embattled Kharkiv region.

Some experts have raised questions over whether the new freedom will help Ukraine significantly bolster its ability to repel Russia's invasion.

However, as per military analysts that may not be the case because the United States has been firmly standing in not permitting Ukraine to use the most formidable munition against Russia, which is the long-range missiles called ATACMS. This missile is capable of hitting targets 300 kilometres (nearly 200 miles) away.

Ukraine is allowed to use only shorter-range missiles known as GMLRSl. These missiles have a range of around 70 kilometres (around 40 miles).

Watch:&nbsp;Russia's spacecraft tails US spy satellite

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Russia has already faced Ukrainian strikes with the use of Western weapons on territory captured by them.

The occupied Crimea has been frequently targeted by Ukraine after it was annexed by Russia using UK-provided “Storm Shadow” missiles in 2014.

In late 2022, Ukraine also launched strikes on Kharkiv and Kherson in an attempt to liberate the regions occupied by Russia in the early weeks of the war.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian forces on Monday (June 3) said that they have successfully struck a Russian S-300 missile system with the help of Western-supplied weapons in the Russian territory.

Ukrainian forces on Monday (June 3) said that they have successfully struck a Russian S-300 missile system with the help of Western-supplied weapons in the Russian territory. “It burns beautifully. It’s a Russian S-300. On Russian territory. The first days after permission to use Western weapons on enemy territory,” Ukrainian government minister Iryna Vereshchuk wrote on Facebook, along with a picture which purportedly showed the strike. Also Read: New front opens in Russia-Ukraine war as Moscow launches surprise offensive The strikes took place days after United States President Joe Biden allowed Ukraine to carry out limited strikes while making use of US weapons in Russian territory near Kharkiv after various European nations removed restrictions on how they could use the weapons. It remains unclear if Ukraine used the US-supplied weapons in the strike. US stops Ukraine from unleashing most formidable munition Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised US President Joe Biden for allowing some strikes in Russian territory as a “step forward” which will help the army in defending the embattled Kharkiv region. Some experts have raised questions over whether the new freedom will help Ukraine significantly bolster its ability to repel Russia's invasion. However, as per military analysts that may not be the case because the United States has been firmly standing in not permitting Ukraine to use the most formidable munition against Russia, which is the long-range missiles called ATACMS. This missile is capable of hitting targets 300 kilometres (nearly 200 miles) away. Ukraine is allowed to use only shorter-range missiles known as GMLRSl. These missiles have a range of around 70 kilometres (around 40 miles). Watch: Russia's spacecraft tails US spy satellite Russia has already faced Ukrainian strikes with the use of Western weapons on territory captured by them. The occupied Crimea has been frequently targeted by Ukraine after it was annexed by Russia using UK-provided “Storm Shadow” missiles in 2014. In late 2022, Ukraine also launched strikes on Kharkiv and Kherson in an attempt to liberate the regions occupied by Russia in the early weeks of the war. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine uses Western weapons to strike missile systems in Russian territory

France is investigating suspected Russian interference after five full-sized coffins covered with the French tricolour were found at the Eiffel Tower over the weekend. Three people were arrested on Monday (Jun 3) after the coffins with the words “French soldiers from Ukraine” written on them were found near the Eiffel Tower.&nbsp;

<h2>What we know about the incident</h2>

Three men were seen arriving in a van near the Eiffel Tower around 9:00 am (local time) on Saturday (Jun 1). The police later found coffins allegedly placed by them containing sacks of plaster.&nbsp;

The three men were formally put under investigation on Monday. Each of the coffins, as per reports, was inscribed with the words “French soldiers in the Ukraine”.&nbsp;

It is believed that the inscription is referring to French President Emmanuel Macron’s statement who raised the possibility of sending Western troops to Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia. Moscow has since called the suggestion “dangerous”. Media reports citing sources suggested that Paris will soon&nbsp;send military trainers to Kyiv.&nbsp;

The French police quickly arrested the driver allegedly involved in the incident who said that he had been paid around $44 by two others to transport the coffins. He told the police he had arrived in Paris only the day before from Bulgaria.

The two others were later found at Bercy coach station in central Paris where they were reportedly planning to take a bus to Berlin.&nbsp;

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The duo reportedly told the police that they had been paid around $436 to leave the coffins. The two suspects – a German and a Ukrainian – had travelled to France separately.&nbsp;

A report by French newspaper Le Monde citing a memo from the French domestic intelligence service, the DGSE, suggested the operation was coordinated by the Russian intelligence agency, FSB.&nbsp;

Le Monde citing security sources also said that the three men had been in contact with a man suspected of having sprayed red hands on the Paris Shoah Memorial, a Holocaust museum, last month.

<h2>Zelensky’s visit</h2>

The incident near the Eiffel Tower&nbsp;took place days before Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was due in France for the 80th anniversary of D-day which will take place on June 6, when Allied soldiers landed in Normandy to drive out Nazi German forces during World War Two.&nbsp;

The two leaders are expected to hold talks in Paris the next day. Last week, Ukraine’s top commander said he signed paperwork allowing French military instructors to visit Ukrainian training centres soon.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

France is investigating suspected Russian interference after five full-sized coffins covered with the French tricolour were found at the Eiffel Tower over the weekend.

France is investigating suspected Russian interference after five full-sized coffins covered with the French tricolour were found at the Eiffel Tower over the weekend. Three people were arrested on Monday (Jun 3) after the coffins with the words “French soldiers from Ukraine” written on them were found near the Eiffel Tower. What we know about the incident Three men were seen arriving in a van near the Eiffel Tower around 9:00 am (local time) on Saturday (Jun 1). The police later found coffins allegedly placed by them containing sacks of plaster. The three men were formally put under investigation on Monday. Each of the coffins, as per reports, was inscribed with the words “French soldiers in the Ukraine”. It is believed that the inscription is referring to French President Emmanuel Macron’s statement who raised the possibility of sending Western troops to Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia. Moscow has since called the suggestion “dangerous”. Media reports citing sources suggested that Paris will soon send military trainers to Kyiv. The French police quickly arrested the driver allegedly involved in the incident who said that he had been paid around $44 by two others to transport the coffins. He told the police he had arrived in Paris only the day before from Bulgaria. The two others were later found at Bercy coach station in central Paris where they were reportedly planning to take a bus to Berlin. Also Read | Foreign national detained in Romania for throwing molotov cocktail outside Israeli embassy The duo reportedly told the police that they had been paid around $436 to leave the coffins. The two suspects – a German and a Ukrainian – had travelled to France separately. A report by French newspaper Le Monde citing a memo from the French domestic intelligence service, the DGSE, suggested the operation was coordinated by the Russian intelligence agency, FSB. Le Monde citing security sources also said that the three men had been in contact with a man suspected of having sprayed red hands on the Paris Shoah Memorial, a Holocaust museum, last month. Zelensky’s visit The incident near the Eiffel Tower took place days before Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was due in France for the 80th anniversary of D-day which will take place on June 6, when Allied soldiers landed in Normandy to drive out Nazi German forces during World War Two. The two leaders are expected to hold talks in Paris the next day. Last week, Ukraine’s top commander said he signed paperwork allowing French military instructors to visit Ukrainian training centres soon. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian interference suspected after coffins covered in French tricolour found near Eiffel Tower

With the last phase of Lok Sabha polling done and dusted on June 1, the results of&nbsp;exit polls started to roll in. Analysts are scrutinising the data to predict the outcomes and the fate of the political parties in India. In other news, the supporters of former US president Donald Trump, who was convicted on 34 felony counts in the New York Hush money case, have called for riots, revolution, and violent retribution.&nbsp;

Also,&nbsp;Pakistan's government has acknowledged before the Islamabad High Court that Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) is a foreign territory.

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-exit-poll-results-2024-live-updates-bjp-vs-congress-winner-prediction-cvoter-chanakya-axis-727751">Exit Polls give BJP a thumping victory, record third term to PM Modi</a>

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The dance of the world's biggest democracy came alive during the last 80 days of relentless election campaign in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance sought a third consecutive term in power. To deny PM Modi another term in power amid the BJP-led NDA's ambitious goal to win 400 of 543 Lok Sabha seats, top opposition parties banded together as 'INDIA' bloc.

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Russia launched a total of 100 projectiles overnight targeting energy sites across Ukraine in a fresh salvo, the Ukrainian officials said on Saturday (June 1).

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Pakistan's government has acknowledged before the Islamabad High Court that Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) is a foreign territory. The rare admission was made on Friday (May 31) during the hearing of the abduction case of local Kashmiri poet and journalist Ahmed Farhad Shah.&nbsp;

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The supporters of former US president Donald Trump, who was convicted on 34 felony counts in the New York Hush money case, have called for riots, revolution, and violent retribution.

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Friday (May 31) that the Gaza war would not end until the "elimination" of Hamas's capacity to govern and make war.&nbsp;

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Twenty people, including children, drowned in a boat accident&nbsp;in Afghanistan's eastern Nangarhar province on Saturday, a provincial official said in a post on X.&nbsp;Quraishi Badloon, the head of the province's information department, said that the boat sank at 7 am local time in the river in the Basawul area of Momand Dara district.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bengaluru-court-summons-rahul-gandhi-on-june-7-in-defamation-case-filed-by-karnataka-bjp-727814">Bengaluru court summons Rahul Gandhi on June 7 in defamation case filed by Karnataka BJP</a>

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Rahul Gandhi, a top leader of India's opposition Congress party, was asked by a Bengaluru court on Saturday (Jun 1) to appear before it on June 7 in a defamation case filed by a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader.

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South Africa is poised to break three decades of dominance of the party that liberated it from apartheid, as voters, frustrated by joblessness, inequality, and power shortages, reduced the the vote share of&nbsp;African National Congress'&nbsp;(ANC) to 40%.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-dinesh-karthik-retires-from-professional-cricket-pens-heartfelt-note-727808">India’s Dinesh Karthik retires from professional cricket, pens heartfelt note</a>

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Indian keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik announced his retirement from professional cricket on Saturday (June 1). The Tamil Nadu-based star player took to his social media handles to announce his decision to step aside from all forms of games. In a heartfelt note, DK, as most fans call him, thanked his parents, coaches, and wife, Dipika, for being the pillars in his life and contributing immensely to his success.

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Marvel actor Chris Evans has issued a clarification about an old photo of him sighing a weapon that appeared to be a 'bomb'. Evans, who is known for playing the role of Captain America, addressed the viral photo that started resurfacing days after former Republican presidential hopeful Nikki Haley was criticised for writing ‘finish them’ on an artillery shell during her visit to northern Israel amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

With the last phase of Lok Sabha polling done and dusted on June 1, the results of exit polls started to roll in. Analysts are scrutinising the data to predict the outcomes and the fate of the political parties in India.

With the last phase of Lok Sabha polling done and dusted on June 1, the results of exit polls started to roll in. Analysts are scrutinising the data to predict the outcomes and the fate of the political parties in India. In other news, the supporters of former US president Donald Trump, who was convicted on 34 felony counts in the New York Hush money case, have called for riots, revolution, and violent retribution. Also, Pakistan's government has acknowledged before the Islamabad High Court that Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) is a foreign territory. Click on the headlines to read more. Exit Polls give BJP a thumping victory, record third term to PM Modi The dance of the world's biggest democracy came alive during the last 80 days of relentless election campaign in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance sought a third consecutive term in power. To deny PM Modi another term in power amid the BJP-led NDA's ambitious goal to win 400 of 543 Lok Sabha seats, top opposition parties banded together as 'INDIA' bloc. Russia fires barrage of missiles targeting Ukraine’s energy sites Russia launched a total of 100 projectiles overnight targeting energy sites across Ukraine in a fresh salvo, the Ukrainian officials said on Saturday (June 1). ‘PoK is foreign territory’: Pakistan admits in Islamabad High Court Pakistan's government has acknowledged before the Islamabad High Court that Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) is a foreign territory. The rare admission was made on Friday (May 31) during the hearing of the abduction case of local Kashmiri poet and journalist Ahmed Farhad Shah. Trump supporters call for riots, violent retribution following hush money case verdict The supporters of former US president Donald Trump, who was convicted on 34 felony counts in the New York Hush money case, have called for riots, revolution, and violent retribution. Netanyahu says Gaza war will not end until 'elimination' of Hamas Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Friday (May 31) that the Gaza war would not end until the "elimination" of Hamas's capacity to govern and make war. 20 people, including children, drown in boat accident in eastern Afghanistan Twenty people, including children, drowned in a boat accident in Afghanistan's eastern Nangarhar province on Saturday, a provincial official said in a post on X. Quraishi Badloon, the head of the province's information department, said that the boat sank at 7 am local time in the river in the Basawul area of Momand Dara district. Bengaluru court summons Rahul Gandhi on June 7 in defamation case filed by Karnataka BJP Rahul Gandhi, a top leader of India's opposition Congress party, was asked by a Bengaluru court on Saturday (Jun 1) to appear before it on June 7 in a defamation case filed by a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader. South Africa election poised to end three decades of ANC dominance South Africa is poised to break three decades of dominance of the party that liberated it from apartheid, as voters, frustrated by joblessness, inequality, and power shortages, reduced the the vote share of African National Congress' (ANC) to 40%. India’s Dinesh Karthik retires from professional cricket, pens heartfelt note Indian keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik announced his retirement from professional cricket on Saturday (June 1). The Tamil Nadu-based star player took to his social media handles to announce his decision to step aside from all forms of games. In a heartfelt note, DK, as most fans call him, thanked his parents, coaches, and wife, Dipika, for being the pillars in his life and contributing immensely to his success. Did Chris Evans actually sign on a bomb? Actor issues clarification on post Marvel actor Chris Evans has issued a clarification about an old photo of him sighing a weapon that appeared to be a 'bomb'. Evans, who is known for playing the role of Captain America, addressed the viral photo that started resurfacing days after former Republican presidential hopeful Nikki Haley was criticised for writing ‘finish them’ on an artillery shell during her visit to northern Israel amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

Top 10 world news: Exit Polls predict BJP win in India Election 2024; Russia-Ukraine war update; and more

NATO countries bordering Russia, including the three Baltic nations, Finland, Norway, and Poland are planning to develop a “drone wall” system to help defend their borders amid the ongoing war with Ukraine and following a series of “provocations.”

<h2>About the protective ‘drone wall’</h2>

Officials from six NATO countries, Finland, Norway, Poland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania said that they had discussed creating a coordinated system of drones to help defend their collective borders along Russia.&nbsp;

Lithuanian Interior Minister Agne Bilotaite announced the plan after talks with her counterparts from the other Baltic nations as well as Finland, Norway and Poland.&nbsp;

“This is a completely new thing, a drone wall stretching from Norway to Poland, and the goal is to use drones and other technologies to protect our borders,” Bilotaite told news agency BNS.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-urges-biden-and-xi-to-join-upcoming-ukraine-peace-summit-in-switzerland-725549">Zelensky urges Biden and Xi to attend Ukraine peace summit in Switzerland next month</a>

She also spoke about how the countries would not only use physical infrastructure, and surveillance systems but also drones and other technology to protect themselves against “provocations from unfriendly countries and to prevent smuggling.”

Along with drones to monitor the border the six NATO countries will also use anti-drone systems to stop enemy unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).&nbsp;

Estonia’s Interior Minister Lauri Laanemets also noted the importance of UAVs amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

“As we see in the case of Ukraine, there is a constant race between the adversaries to develop technology, and new ways to use drones are continually being found in warfare,” Laanemets said as quoted by The Baltic Times.

<h2>Why now?&nbsp;</h2>

Last year, several European countries, including Finland and Poland, which share a border with Russia accused Moscow of pushing its migrants to destabilise the nations and engage in “hybrid warfare”.&nbsp;

Hybrid attacks deploy non-military measures that tend to have an element of deniability, a method that Russia has been accused of using in European nations. Moscow has repeatedly denied these claims.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, the United States-led alliance issued a sharp warning over “hostile” Russian activity across Europe and called it a threat to Western security.&nbsp;

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In a statement, NATO, on May 2 accused Russia of carrying out “sabotage, acts of violence, cyber and electronic interference, disinformation campaigns, and other hybrid operations.”

Baltic nations have also repeatedly said that Russia has been intentionally jamming GPS navigation systems in their region, causing major disruption in air travel.

Earlier this month, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said that Warsaw has joined the European Sky Shield Initiative, which involves 21 NATO countries which will establish an Iron Dome-like air defence system to take out incoming missiles and drones.

(With inputs from agencies)

NATO countries bordering Russia, including the three Baltic nations, Finland, Norway, and Poland are planning to develop a “drone wall” system to help defend their borders amid the ongoing war with Ukraine and following a series of “provocations.

NATO countries bordering Russia, including the three Baltic nations, Finland, Norway, and Poland are planning to develop a “drone wall” system to help defend their borders amid the ongoing war with Ukraine and following a series of “provocations.” About the protective ‘drone wall’ Officials from six NATO countries, Finland, Norway, Poland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania said that they had discussed creating a coordinated system of drones to help defend their collective borders along Russia. Lithuanian Interior Minister Agne Bilotaite announced the plan after talks with her counterparts from the other Baltic nations as well as Finland, Norway and Poland. “This is a completely new thing, a drone wall stretching from Norway to Poland, and the goal is to use drones and other technologies to protect our borders,” Bilotaite told news agency BNS. Also Read | Zelensky urges Biden and Xi to attend Ukraine peace summit in Switzerland next month She also spoke about how the countries would not only use physical infrastructure, and surveillance systems but also drones and other technology to protect themselves against “provocations from unfriendly countries and to prevent smuggling.” Along with drones to monitor the border the six NATO countries will also use anti-drone systems to stop enemy unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Estonia’s Interior Minister Lauri Laanemets also noted the importance of UAVs amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. “As we see in the case of Ukraine, there is a constant race between the adversaries to develop technology, and new ways to use drones are continually being found in warfare,” Laanemets said as quoted by The Baltic Times. Why now? Last year, several European countries, including Finland and Poland, which share a border with Russia accused Moscow of pushing its migrants to destabilise the nations and engage in “hybrid warfare”. Hybrid attacks deploy non-military measures that tend to have an element of deniability, a method that Russia has been accused of using in European nations. Moscow has repeatedly denied these claims. Earlier this month, the United States-led alliance issued a sharp warning over “hostile” Russian activity across Europe and called it a threat to Western security. Also Read | Gaza war: Hamas armed wing launches ‘big missile’ attack on Tel Aviv In a statement, NATO, on May 2 accused Russia of carrying out “sabotage, acts of violence, cyber and electronic interference, disinformation campaigns, and other hybrid operations.” Baltic nations have also repeatedly said that Russia has been intentionally jamming GPS navigation systems in their region, causing major disruption in air travel. Earlier this month, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said that Warsaw has joined the European Sky Shield Initiative, which involves 21 NATO countries which will establish an Iron Dome-like air defence system to take out incoming missiles and drones. (With inputs from agencies)

NATO countries plan to create protective ‘drone wall’ along Russian border

The death toll from a Russian strike on a hardware superstore in the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv rose to 14, said the regional governor, on Sunday (May 26). Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the daylight attack on an “obviously civilian” target.&nbsp;

<h2>Death toll rises to 14</h2>

The death toll from the Russian strike that hit&nbsp;a&nbsp;hardware ‘Epitsentr’, on Saturday&nbsp;(May 25)&nbsp;rose to 14&nbsp;people, said Kharkiv regional governor Oleg Synegubov in a post on Telegram.&nbsp;

"The number of dead has grown to 14," said&nbsp;Synegubov, adding that&nbsp;nearly 200 rescuers worked at the scene.&nbsp;

Earlier, Synegubov had said that six people had “died on the spot,” 40 were wounded and 16 were missing after two guided Russian bombs hit the store. The death toll was later revised to 11.&nbsp;

In a video on the messaging app, Synegubov said that two of those killed “were men who worked in the hypermarket”.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Situation under control in Kharkiv, says Ukraine

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-situation-under-control-in-kharkiv-says-ukraine-725159/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Epitsentr superstore which was located in a residential area of the city, according to the news agency AFP had been gutted, with thick black smoke emerging from the store as firefighters sprayed water on a blaze sparked by the strikes.&nbsp;

"It took more than 16 hours to extinguish the fire in the Kharkiv construction hypermarket caused by targeted Russian strikes," said&nbsp;Interior minister Igor Klymenko in a post on Telegram.&nbsp;

The Epitsentr chain sells household&nbsp;hardware and DIY goods. Lyubov, a cleaner at the store who was still in her uniform, told the news agency that it was all very sudden and recalled how she escaped the building. &nbsp;

“It happened all of a sudden. We didn’t understand at first, everything went dark and everything started falling on our heads,” said Lyubov.&nbsp;

She added, “It was good that my phone lit up, thanks to the flashlight I found where to go, but in front of us everything was burning already.”

Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov said around 120 people had been in the hardware store when the bombs struck.&nbsp;

“The attack targeted the shopping centre, where there were many people – this is clearly terrorism,” said Terekhov.&nbsp;

A report by Russian state news agency TASS citing a security source claimed that the missile strike destroyed a “military store and command post” inside the shopping centre.

<h2>Zelensky condemns ‘vile’ attack</h2>

After the attack on Saturday, the Ukrainian president took to Telegram and condemned the attack on an “obviously civilian” target. He also called the attack “vile” and slammed Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

“Russia struck another brutal blow at our Kharkiv – at a construction hypermarket – on Saturday, right in the middle of the day,” said Zelensky.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-bombs-diy-store-in-ukraines-kharkiv-zelensky-says-over-200-feared-inside-725415">Russia bombs DIY store in Ukraine’s Kharkiv, Zelensky says ‘over 200’ feared inside</a>

He added, “Only madmen like Putin are capable of killing and terrorising people in such a vile way.”&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron also took to X and called the attack “unacceptable.” He added, “France shares the pain of the Ukrainians and remains fully mobilised alongside them.”&nbsp;

<h2>At least 18 injured in separate attack</h2>

Later on Saturday, a missile strike hit a residential building in the centre of the city and injured at least 18 people, said Synegubov.&nbsp;

The missile, according to Reuters, also left a crater several metres deep in the pavement at the foot of the building, which also had a post office, a beauty salon and a cafe.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukrainian attacks kill four in Belgorod region</h2>

While Ukrainian attacks on Saturday in Russia’s Belgorod which is close to the Ukrainian border killed at least four&nbsp;people, said regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov.&nbsp;

Gladkov took to Telegram and said three people were killed in the village of Oktyabrsky in a multiple rocket attack and one man died after being taken to a hospital.

The two shelling incidents, according to the Russian official, also left 12 people injured.&nbsp;

(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.&nbsp;

The death toll from a Russian strike on a hardware superstore in the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv rose to 14, said the regional governor, on Sunday (May 26). Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the daylight attack on an “obviously civilian” target.

The death toll from a Russian strike on a hardware superstore in the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv rose to 14, said the regional governor, on Sunday (May 26). Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the daylight attack on an “obviously civilian” target. Death toll rises to 14 The death toll from the Russian strike that hit a hardware ‘Epitsentr’, on Saturday (May 25) rose to 14 people, said Kharkiv regional governor Oleg Synegubov in a post on Telegram. "The number of dead has grown to 14," said Synegubov, adding that nearly 200 rescuers worked at the scene. Earlier, Synegubov had said that six people had “died on the spot,” 40 were wounded and 16 were missing after two guided Russian bombs hit the store. The death toll was later revised to 11. In a video on the messaging app, Synegubov said that two of those killed “were men who worked in the hypermarket”. WATCH | Situation under control in Kharkiv, says Ukraine Epitsentr superstore which was located in a residential area of the city, according to the news agency AFP had been gutted, with thick black smoke emerging from the store as firefighters sprayed water on a blaze sparked by the strikes. "It took more than 16 hours to extinguish the fire in the Kharkiv construction hypermarket caused by targeted Russian strikes," said Interior minister Igor Klymenko in a post on Telegram. The Epitsentr chain sells household hardware and DIY goods. Lyubov, a cleaner at the store who was still in her uniform, told the news agency that it was all very sudden and recalled how she escaped the building. “It happened all of a sudden. We didn’t understand at first, everything went dark and everything started falling on our heads,” said Lyubov. She added, “It was good that my phone lit up, thanks to the flashlight I found where to go, but in front of us everything was burning already.” Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov said around 120 people had been in the hardware store when the bombs struck. “The attack targeted the shopping centre, where there were many people – this is clearly terrorism,” said Terekhov. A report by Russian state news agency TASS citing a security source claimed that the missile strike destroyed a “military store and command post” inside the shopping centre. Zelensky condemns ‘vile’ attack After the attack on Saturday, the Ukrainian president took to Telegram and condemned the attack on an “obviously civilian” target. He also called the attack “vile” and slammed Russian President Vladimir Putin. “Russia struck another brutal blow at our Kharkiv – at a construction hypermarket – on Saturday, right in the middle of the day,” said Zelensky. Also Read | Russia bombs DIY store in Ukraine’s Kharkiv, Zelensky says ‘over 200’ feared inside He added, “Only madmen like Putin are capable of killing and terrorising people in such a vile way.” French President Emmanuel Macron also took to X and called the attack “unacceptable.” He added, “France shares the pain of the Ukrainians and remains fully mobilised alongside them.” At least 18 injured in separate attack Later on Saturday, a missile strike hit a residential building in the centre of the city and injured at least 18 people, said Synegubov. The missile, according to Reuters, also left a crater several metres deep in the pavement at the foot of the building, which also had a post office, a beauty salon and a cafe. Ukrainian attacks kill four in Belgorod region While Ukrainian attacks on Saturday in Russia’s Belgorod which is close to the Ukrainian border killed at least four people, said regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov. Gladkov took to Telegram and said three people were killed in the village of Oktyabrsky in a multiple rocket attack and one man died after being taken to a hospital. The two shelling incidents, according to the Russian official, also left 12 people injured. (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.

Death toll after Russian strike on hardware store in Kharkiv rises to 14: Ukrainian governor

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Sunday (May 26) called on United States President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping to join the upcoming peace summit in Switzerland as Ukraine struggles to stave off relentless attacks by Russia amid the ongoing war.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine peace summit</h2>

“I am appealing to the leaders of the world who are still aside from the global efforts of the global peace summit: to President Biden, the leader of the United States, and to President Xi, the leader of China,” Zelensky said in a video message, as quoted by AFP.&nbsp;

“Please support the peace summit with your personal leadership and participation,” Zelensky said, adding that the “efforts of the global majority are the best guarantee that all commitments will be fulfilled”.

WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine claims drone strikes damaged Russia's radar station

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-claims-drone-strikes-damaged-russias-radar-station-725559/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The peace summit will take place in the Swiss city of Lucerne on June 15 and 16.&nbsp;

According to the Swiss government, 160 delegations have been invited but Russia will not attend. The Ukrainian president said, “more than 80 countries confirmed they will come”.&nbsp;

The meeting has sought to put international pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin. Meanwhile, Moscow has repeatedly said that it sees no point in the conference.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-after-russian-strike-on-hardware-store-in-kharkiv-rises-to-11-ukrainian-governor-725499">Death toll after Russian strike on hardware store in Kharkiv rises to 11: Ukrainian governor</a>

Zelensky’s comments also come after a report by Reuters citing Russian sources said Putin was ready to stop the ongoing war in Ukraine with a negotiated ceasefire that recognises the current battlefield lines.

However, the Ukrainian president and supporters of Kyiv have said that a ceasefire will only help Russia rearm and regroup.

<h2>Russia-Ukraine war updates</h2>

The peace summit comes as Russia has ramped up attacks on Ukraine amid its ongoing 27-month-old invasion. In recent weeks, Moscow made steady gains on the battlefield and captured several villages in eastern Ukraine.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-bombs-diy-store-in-ukraines-kharkiv-zelensky-says-over-200-feared-inside-725415">Russia bombs DIY store in Ukraine’s Kharkiv, Zelensky says ‘over 200’ feared inside</a>

Russia has also stepped up air strikes on Ukrainian cities and the war-torn country’s energy infrastructure. Earlier this month, Moscow launched more than 70 missiles and drones overnight in one of its largest attacks against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.&nbsp;

The attack on May 7 was directed at facilities in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv and six other cities. This comes as Kyiv has been urging its allies in the West to send more weapons warning that its defence capabilities are running low.

(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.&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Sunday (May 26) called on United States President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping to join the upcoming peace summit in Switzerland as Ukraine struggles to stave off relentless attacks by Russia amid the ongoing war.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Sunday (May 26) called on United States President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping to join the upcoming peace summit in Switzerland as Ukraine struggles to stave off relentless attacks by Russia amid the ongoing war. Ukraine peace summit “I am appealing to the leaders of the world who are still aside from the global efforts of the global peace summit: to President Biden, the leader of the United States, and to President Xi, the leader of China,” Zelensky said in a video message, as quoted by AFP. “Please support the peace summit with your personal leadership and participation,” Zelensky said, adding that the “efforts of the global majority are the best guarantee that all commitments will be fulfilled”. WATCH | Ukraine claims drone strikes damaged Russia's radar station The peace summit will take place in the Swiss city of Lucerne on June 15 and 16. According to the Swiss government, 160 delegations have been invited but Russia will not attend. The Ukrainian president said, “more than 80 countries confirmed they will come”. The meeting has sought to put international pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin. Meanwhile, Moscow has repeatedly said that it sees no point in the conference. Also Read | Death toll after Russian strike on hardware store in Kharkiv rises to 11: Ukrainian governor Zelensky’s comments also come after a report by Reuters citing Russian sources said Putin was ready to stop the ongoing war in Ukraine with a negotiated ceasefire that recognises the current battlefield lines. However, the Ukrainian president and supporters of Kyiv have said that a ceasefire will only help Russia rearm and regroup. Russia-Ukraine war updates The peace summit comes as Russia has ramped up attacks on Ukraine amid its ongoing 27-month-old invasion. In recent weeks, Moscow made steady gains on the battlefield and captured several villages in eastern Ukraine. Also Read | Russia bombs DIY store in Ukraine’s Kharkiv, Zelensky says ‘over 200’ feared inside Russia has also stepped up air strikes on Ukrainian cities and the war-torn country’s energy infrastructure. Earlier this month, Moscow launched more than 70 missiles and drones overnight in one of its largest attacks against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. The attack on May 7 was directed at facilities in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv and six other cities. This comes as Kyiv has been urging its allies in the West to send more weapons warning that its defence capabilities are running low. (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.

Zelensky urges Biden and Xi to attend Ukraine peace summit in Switzerland next month

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (May 25) said that over 200 people were feared inside a DIY superstore which was hit by Russia in the northeastern city of Kharkiv.

"As of now, we know that more than 200 people could have been inside the hypermarket," Zelensky said on Telegram.

He further condemned the daylight attack on an "obviously civilian" target.&nbsp;

This came after Ukrainian officials said that a Russian strike at a hardware superstore in the eastern city of Kharkiv claimed the lives of two and wounded 33 others.

Kharkiv regional governor Oleg Synegubov said that "two Russian guided bombs hit a construction hypermarket".

"Two people were killed. They were men who worked in the hypermarket," Synegubov said in a video posted on Telegram. "The number of wounded has gone up to 33 people," he added in a later post.

The firefighters, as per news agency AFP said that the fire was raging over an area of 10,000 square metres, however, they managed to stop it from spreading.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-nuclear-drills-are-not-an-escalation-questions-zelenskys-legitimacy-as-ukraines-leader-725076">Also read: Putin says nuclear drills are not an escalation, questions Zelensky's legitimacy as Ukraine's leader</a>

<h2>'Only madmen like Putin are capable of killing people': Zelensky&nbsp;</h2>

Zelensky condemned the attack as "vile" and slammed Russian President Vladimir Putin stating that only madmen like him are capable of killing and terrorising people.

"Russia struck another brutal blow at our Kharkiv -- at a construction hypermarket -- on Saturday, right in the middle of the day," Zelensky said.

"Only madmen like Putin are capable of killing and terrorising people in such a vile way," he added.

"There were a lot of workers and shoppers inside," he added.

Kharkiv mayor Igor Terekhov said that as per the owner of the building, 15 people working at the store had not been in contact and around 200 people were present in the store when the strike hit.

He denounced the attack calling it "pure terrorism".

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (May 25) said that over 200 people were feared inside a DIY superstore which was hit by Russia in the northeastern city of Kharkiv.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (May 25) said that over 200 people were feared inside a DIY superstore which was hit by Russia in the northeastern city of Kharkiv. "As of now, we know that more than 200 people could have been inside the hypermarket," Zelensky said on Telegram. He further condemned the daylight attack on an "obviously civilian" target. This came after Ukrainian officials said that a Russian strike at a hardware superstore in the eastern city of Kharkiv claimed the lives of two and wounded 33 others. Kharkiv regional governor Oleg Synegubov said that "two Russian guided bombs hit a construction hypermarket". "Two people were killed. They were men who worked in the hypermarket," Synegubov said in a video posted on Telegram. "The number of wounded has gone up to 33 people," he added in a later post. The firefighters, as per news agency AFP said that the fire was raging over an area of 10,000 square metres, however, they managed to stop it from spreading. Also read: Putin says nuclear drills are not an escalation, questions Zelensky's legitimacy as Ukraine's leader 'Only madmen like Putin are capable of killing people': Zelensky Zelensky condemned the attack as "vile" and slammed Russian President Vladimir Putin stating that only madmen like him are capable of killing and terrorising people. "Russia struck another brutal blow at our Kharkiv -- at a construction hypermarket -- on Saturday, right in the middle of the day," Zelensky said. "Only madmen like Putin are capable of killing and terrorising people in such a vile way," he added. "There were a lot of workers and shoppers inside," he added. Kharkiv mayor Igor Terekhov said that as per the owner of the building, 15 people working at the store had not been in contact and around 200 people were present in the store when the strike hit. He denounced the attack calling it "pure terrorism". (With inputs from agencies)

Russia bombs DIY store in Ukraine’s Kharkiv, Zelensky says ‘over 200’ feared inside

President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (May 23) said that Russia has been taking advantage of Ukraine's lack of air defence systems to launch "brutal" strikes on frontline towns and cities.&nbsp;

In a post on social media, Zelensky said, "Russian terrorists are taking advantage of the fact that Ukraine still lacks sufficient air defence protection and the reliable ability to destroy terrorist launchers exactly where they are located -- near our borders."&nbsp;

Zelensky's remarks came on the day when local authorities said that a Russian missile attack on Ukraine's northeastern city of Kharkiv killed at least six people and wounded at least 11.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-parties-launch-campaigns-as-sunak-surprises-with-early-election-nigel-farage-opts-out-724600">UK parties launch campaigns as Sunak surprises with early election; Nigel Farage opts out</a>&nbsp;

The mayor of Kharkiv and the region's governor said that the attack damaged transport and municipal infrastructure and destroyed a printing house, causing a fire.&nbsp;

Regional police chief Volodymyr Tymoshko told reporters at the scene: "This is a purely civilian site, it is a printworks that prints books."&nbsp;

He also said two missiles had hit the printworks' premises, with one landing nearby.&nbsp;

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According to Oleksandr Filchakov, who is the head of the Kharkiv region prosecutor's office, about 50 people had been in the printworks when it was hit.&nbsp;

Notably, Kharkiv is a hub of Ukraine's publishing industry, but in the past few weeks, it has seen intensified Russian strikes.&nbsp;

Kharkiv city mayor claimed that 15 missiles had been used in the attack, based on preliminary information.&nbsp;

The missile attack also injured seven people in the Kharkiv district, the governor said.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;US shifting stance on weapon usage by Kyiv?&nbsp;

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<h2>Russia claims capture of village&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, Russia on Thursday claimed that it had captured the village of Andriivka in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region.&nbsp;

It is the same region where Kyiv's forces are suffering manpower and ammunition shortages and struggling to hold off Russian attacks.&nbsp;

"Units of the Southern grouping of troops liberated the settlement of Andriivka in the Donetsk People's Republic," the defence ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia warns Britain&nbsp;</h2>

Russia reiterated that it would&nbsp;retaliate with strikes on British targets if UK weapons were used by Ukraine to strike Russian territory.&nbsp;

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters on Thursday that British targets "on Ukraine's territory and beyond its borders" could be hit in such a scenario.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (May 23) said that Russia has been taking advantage of Ukraine's lack of air defence systems to launch "brutal" strikes on frontline towns and cities.

President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (May 23) said that Russia has been taking advantage of Ukraine's lack of air defence systems to launch "brutal" strikes on frontline towns and cities. In a post on social media, Zelensky said, "Russian terrorists are taking advantage of the fact that Ukraine still lacks sufficient air defence protection and the reliable ability to destroy terrorist launchers exactly where they are located -- near our borders." Zelensky's remarks came on the day when local authorities said that a Russian missile attack on Ukraine's northeastern city of Kharkiv killed at least six people and wounded at least 11. Also read: UK parties launch campaigns as Sunak surprises with early election; Nigel Farage opts out The mayor of Kharkiv and the region's governor said that the attack damaged transport and municipal infrastructure and destroyed a printing house, causing a fire. Regional police chief Volodymyr Tymoshko told reporters at the scene: "This is a purely civilian site, it is a printworks that prints books." He also said two missiles had hit the printworks' premises, with one landing nearby. Also read: Thousands gather to bid farewell to Ebrahim Raisi in Iran's Birjand According to Oleksandr Filchakov, who is the head of the Kharkiv region prosecutor's office, about 50 people had been in the printworks when it was hit. Notably, Kharkiv is a hub of Ukraine's publishing industry, but in the past few weeks, it has seen intensified Russian strikes. Kharkiv city mayor claimed that 15 missiles had been used in the attack, based on preliminary information. The missile attack also injured seven people in the Kharkiv district, the governor said. Watch: US shifting stance on weapon usage by Kyiv? × Russia claims capture of village Meanwhile, Russia on Thursday claimed that it had captured the village of Andriivka in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region. It is the same region where Kyiv's forces are suffering manpower and ammunition shortages and struggling to hold off Russian attacks. "Units of the Southern grouping of troops liberated the settlement of Andriivka in the Donetsk People's Republic," the defence ministry said in a statement. Russia warns Britain Russia reiterated that it would retaliate with strikes on British targets if UK weapons were used by Ukraine to strike Russian territory. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters on Thursday that British targets "on Ukraine's territory and beyond its borders" could be hit in such a scenario. 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 (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky claims Russia taking advantage of its 'lack of air defence' by launching brutal strikes

Russia on Tuesday (May 21) announced that its forces have started the first stage of exercises near Ukraine ordered by President Vladimir Putin to simulate preparation for the launch of tactical nuclear weapons, in what Moscow said was a response to Western “threats”.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia begins drills</h2>

Amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, Moscow has repeatedly made veiled threats to use nuclear weapons and boasted about the readiness of its arsenal if it senses an existential threat.

WATCH |&nbsp;Moscow holds nuke drills near Ukraine

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Russia has linked the recent drills to what it calls “militant statements” by Western officials, including the remarks made by French President Emmanuel Macron who floated the possibility of sending European troops to fight Moscow in Ukraine.&nbsp;

The Russian defence ministry said that the drills are taking place in the Southern Military District, which borders and includes parts of Ukraine that Moscow has claimed to annex amid the ongoing war. However, the specific location of the drills remained unclear.&nbsp;

A report by Reuters citing nuclear analysts said that the exercises are designed as a warning signal by Putin to deter the West from getting more involved in the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-has-no-plans-of-capturing-ukraines-kharkiv-forces-creating-buffer-zone-putin-722547">Russia has no plans of capturing Ukraine's Kharkiv, forces creating 'buffer zone': Putin</a>

The drills are designed to test “the readiness of personnel and equipment of non-strategic nuclear weapons combat units to respond and to unconditionally ensure the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Russian state,” said the Russian defence ministry.&nbsp;

It added that they were a “response to provocative statements and threats by certain Western officials.”&nbsp;

The ministry also said that the first stage of the drills involved Iskander and Kinzhal missiles. The exercise also involves Belarus, where Russia said that it had deployed tactical nuclear weapons last year, a development that both Minsk and Moscow confirmed.&nbsp;

<h2>What were the ‘militant statements’?</h2>

Russian officials pointed to statements by the French president about NATO countries not ruling out the possibility of deploying troops to Ukraine as well as a statement by British Foreign Minister David Cameron who said Kyiv had the right to use weapons provided by the United Kingdom to strike targets inside the Russian territory.

Russia also cited the provision of long-range British, French and United States ATACMS missiles to Kyiv.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-to-have-captured-another-village-in-kharkiv-region-ukraine-struggles-on-eastern-front-722910">Russia claims to have captured another village in Kharkiv region</a>

“The exercises are, obviously, a signal in response to discussion of NATO countries’ troops in Ukraine. The most important features are advance announcement and visibility,” Nikolai Sokov, a former Soviet and Russian arms control official, told Reuters.

He also said that the Western militaries will be watching the drills closely in an attempt to draw conclusions about how much warning time they would have before Russia deploys them for real, he added.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, the Russian foreign ministry had said that the drills should send a “sobering signal” to the West and its “puppets” in Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Russia on Tuesday (May 21) announced that its forces have started the first stage of exercises near Ukraine ordered by President Vladimir Putin to simulate preparation for the launch of tactical nuclear weapons, in what Moscow said was a response to Western “threats”.

Russia on Tuesday (May 21) announced that its forces have started the first stage of exercises near Ukraine ordered by President Vladimir Putin to simulate preparation for the launch of tactical nuclear weapons, in what Moscow said was a response to Western “threats”. Russia begins drills Amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, Moscow has repeatedly made veiled threats to use nuclear weapons and boasted about the readiness of its arsenal if it senses an existential threat. WATCH | Moscow holds nuke drills near Ukraine Russia has linked the recent drills to what it calls “militant statements” by Western officials, including the remarks made by French President Emmanuel Macron who floated the possibility of sending European troops to fight Moscow in Ukraine. The Russian defence ministry said that the drills are taking place in the Southern Military District, which borders and includes parts of Ukraine that Moscow has claimed to annex amid the ongoing war. However, the specific location of the drills remained unclear. A report by Reuters citing nuclear analysts said that the exercises are designed as a warning signal by Putin to deter the West from getting more involved in the war in Ukraine. Also Read | Russia has no plans of capturing Ukraine's Kharkiv, forces creating 'buffer zone': Putin The drills are designed to test “the readiness of personnel and equipment of non-strategic nuclear weapons combat units to respond and to unconditionally ensure the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Russian state,” said the Russian defence ministry. It added that they were a “response to provocative statements and threats by certain Western officials.” The ministry also said that the first stage of the drills involved Iskander and Kinzhal missiles. The exercise also involves Belarus, where Russia said that it had deployed tactical nuclear weapons last year, a development that both Minsk and Moscow confirmed. What were the ‘militant statements’? Russian officials pointed to statements by the French president about NATO countries not ruling out the possibility of deploying troops to Ukraine as well as a statement by British Foreign Minister David Cameron who said Kyiv had the right to use weapons provided by the United Kingdom to strike targets inside the Russian territory. Russia also cited the provision of long-range British, French and United States ATACMS missiles to Kyiv. Also Read | Russia claims to have captured another village in Kharkiv region “The exercises are, obviously, a signal in response to discussion of NATO countries’ troops in Ukraine. The most important features are advance announcement and visibility,” Nikolai Sokov, a former Soviet and Russian arms control official, told Reuters. He also said that the Western militaries will be watching the drills closely in an attempt to draw conclusions about how much warning time they would have before Russia deploys them for real, he added. Earlier this month, the Russian foreign ministry had said that the drills should send a “sobering signal” to the West and its “puppets” in Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia begins tactical nuclear drills near Ukraine in response to Western ‘threats’

Moldova's Prime Minister Dorin Recean has recognised India as an “important player on the international scene” and has extended an invitation to Indian students, tourists, and investors to visit his country.&nbsp;

In an interview with our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Chișinău, the Moldovan capital, he praised India's economic growth, stating, “I would like to congratulate India for becoming one of the fastest-growing large economies. This is great for India and for the world as well.”

He emphasised Moldova's enthusiasm of strengthening ties with India, noting “India, we see, is becoming more and more an important player on the international scene. And we are very glad that we open our relationships with India.”&nbsp;

Prime Minister Recean expressed a desire to attract more Indian students to Moldova. He assured that Moldovan universities are gearing up to welcome additional Indian students, with English-speaking teachers, adequate learning facilities, comfortable living conditions, and affordable prices.

The PM also spoke about his country's desire to join the EU, and how it has been hosting many Ukrainian refugees amid the conflict in Ukraine. He said, "Our objective is to be an equal member of the European Union and together as a large union, to be an example for the world on how to develop and how to bring prosperity to people"

Sidhant Sibal: How do you see Moldova's relationship with the European Union evolving in the next few years, and what steps are you taking to strengthen this relationship? Are you hopeful of becoming an EU member?

Dorin Recean: Since the December decision of the Council to open negotiations of the European Union with Moldova, we are preparing legislation. We are preparing the institutions. We're preparing the society in order to make the necessary reforms to become a democratic, resilient democracy so that we qualify for this membership. In October we will have a referendum that will be about exposing this question to the people of Moldova so that they decide on this very important matter. Most of the people in Moldova, the strong majority, are already on board. We want these decisions to be taken and correspondingly be included in our constitution.

Sidhant Sibal: So, there are reports which say that your country has signed a pact with the European Union, a security pact, which will see more military engagement&nbsp;with Brussels. Can you just talk about it? Do you think that it's a change in your stance, in your neutrality stance?

Dorin Recean: In the current environment, Moldova is strengthening its defence capacity, and we understand this not only is the responsibility of Moldova and for the Moldovan society, but also for the region. This is why we have strong cooperation with the European Union but also with other allies and friends in order to strengthen our defence capabilities. We are very next to the war. Moldova actually has 1200 kilometres of border with Ukraine, where Russia is waging a brutal and unjust war against the Ukrainians. And this is why it is our responsibility to protect this border not only for us, but also for our EU member states.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: So you're confirming the signing of the security pact.

Dorin Recean: Yeah, we do have security arrangements and agreements with various countries, so that we can train, we can develop the capabilities and we can also benefit from the acquisitions of defence needs.

Sidhant Sibal: So now coming to the situation you talked about, it's been two years since the situation in Ukraine has been something that has been worrisome for not only Europe, but for the world as well. What has been the stakes for Moldova? How have you been dealing with that?&nbsp;

Dorin Recean: First of all, we have to define clearly, what is this situation in Ukraine and in Ukraine, what we have is a Russian aggression against Ukraine, against our neighbours and obviously, this affects very much, the Moldovan society, the Moldovan economy. And please know that there are also illegally stationed Russian troops here in Moldova in the Transnistrian region. So we are very much impacted by the Russian aggression in Ukraine, but also in other places. Correspondingly, we are strengthening our capabilities, we're strengthening our defence. Now not only in military terms, but also in terms of Russia waging a hybrid war against Moldova, through propaganda, through paid for protest through war, organised squads, squads to attack our police or our institutions. So, I confirm that this is very much affecting Moldova.

Sidhant Sibal: Do you think the work would spread to your country?

Dorin Recean: At this stage, it is not possible, a military escalation but as I said, Russia is waging a hybrid war against us.

Sidhant Sibal: This has also led to a major refugee crisis. Your country is&nbsp;small, and it has hosted a large number of Ukrainian refugees. If you can talk about how your country has been supporting the Ukrainian refugees for the last two years.

Dorin Recean: First of all, I would like to say that I'm very proud of the people of Moldova, when the Russian aggression started in Ukraine in February 2022. It's not only that the Moldova institutions reacted, but immediately also the Moldovan society, people of Moldova reacted, they were going to the to the borders, receiving the refugees that were running out of the Ukraine because of the war mostly children and women and close to one million refugees crossed Moldova back then. At a certain point in time, about 15% of the population were refugees. Currently, we are still hosting almost 100,000 refugees from Ukraine, half of them women, half of them children, and we take care of them. We are integrating them into our society into the public services so that children can go to the kindergarten, to the school, to the universities, but also for the adults to be part of our social care system, medical assistance system. So this is the effort that we are making for our friends and neighbours, Ukrainians.

Sidhant Sibal: What's your biggest concern or fear with the war at your doorstep? And additionally, do you foresee the war coming to an end anytime soon?

Dorin Recean: The biggest issue is the atrocities that Russia is committing in Ukraine. Killing people, killing men, women, older people, children, that is the biggest humanitarian problem. Obviously, the war next to our border is a problem for Moldova as well, in economic terms, in social terms. So this is a problem, actually, not just for Moldova, but for the whole of Europe. And I would say also for the whole of the world, when International Law is not respected and when a country is allowed to brutally intervene and to kill people in another country.

Sidhant Sibal: Switzerland is going to host the peace summit, any hopes?

Dorin Recean: I think what is important is that more and more countries agree on a solution to support Ukraine so that Ukraine can regain its territory and be able to end this war.

Sidhant Sibal: Now moving to the larger problems perhaps in Europe, how do you see immigration as an issue for the&nbsp;European continent?

Dorin Recean: I think it is important for all the countries to be able to build a system so that migration is an asset actually, and economic and social assets. And correspondingly to build the institutions but also the culture to be able to integrate into the society. We have this experience as I said, already, we're hosting almost 100,000 refugees from Ukraine and you would see that they are very much welcome here in Moldova, and Moldovans feel good about.

Sidhant Sibal: My question is largely related to immigration from outside the larger European region. What's your view? Do you see it as a challenge for Europe?

Dorin Recean: If migration is managed well, then it is an asset.

Sidhant Sibal: Now moving to something that perhaps for the first time a leader is talking about that India-Moldova relationship, how do you see the relationship between the two countries panning out?

Dorin Recean: First of all, I would like to congratulate India for becoming the fastest-growing large economies and I think this is great for India, but this is great for the world as well. India, we see, is becoming more and more an important player on the international scene. And we are very glad that we open our relationships with India. We are very glad that we opened our embassy in Delhi and hope that soon India will also open by reciprocity an embassy here in Chișinău. We see a great potential for exchanges, social exchanges, but also economic exchange. Moldova, you will see, has great potential in agriculture, particularly wines, in IT, in pharmaceuticals, in energy, and correspondingly both countries can benefit from this opportunity. I would like to mention that already. We have a large Indian contractor building our electricity, high voltage line that integrates our grid into the European Union grid. We have a large student community here of Indians, studying particularly pharmaceuticals and medicine. We would like to increase this effort so that more Indians can come here and study and work. We see great potential for the Indian IT and business service providers to open near-shoring operations here in Moldova. So, we see great potential.

Sidhant Sibal: What are you doing to get investment from India? Why should an Indian businessman invest in Moldova, what are the sectors that they should look forward to?

Dorin Recean: Let me let me tell you, the fact that Moldova has great potential as I said in pharmaceuticals, in IT, in energy, in agricultural , industrialisation of agriculture, and Moldova now has open access to the market of the European Union, which is the largest, the largest market in the world, with the most wealthy consumers. So, this is the great potential, and this is the great asset that Moldova has. The other opportunity is for the Indian investments here for equipment manufacturing for electronics, not only for the European market, but also in preparation of the reconstruction of Ukraine.

Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India's role in terms of global governance? India is a leading voice in the global south, it has taken a leadership role in many senses. So, in those ways, how do you see India taking the mantle of global leadership?&nbsp;

Dorin Recean: I said, we are we are very glad to see India growing and correspondingly this means also more responsibility and we welcome this assuming of responsibility by India to become to become a voice for the Global South, but also a voice that is making sure that the there is an equilibrium in the world. We see now, quite a number of crises and this crisis need to be managed responsibly, and big democracies are playing a very important role in making sure that international law is observed.

Sidhant Sibal: And how do you plan to welcome Indian students, something you are very interested in.

Dorin Recean: We have a special program, &nbsp;now that we have an embassy in Delhi. We have a special program to advertise and to show the opportunities over for education here in Moldova. We also opened consular services so that it is much easier to apply and receive a visa. Here at home, the universities are preparing themselves to host additional students from India with the places to learn, with the teachers speaking English with all the necessary for comfortable living and at affordable prices. So, we already have quite an important capacity to host additional students, but we are also working hard on increasing capacity. On that matter, I would like to say that the community here is quite vibrant. The city, the capital but also other cities in Moldova, are very good places to live, very good places to entertain yourself. So, this is again also a very important component of a student's experience.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: How do you plan to pitch Moldova as a tourism destination for the Indian travellers who have been pretty much going out? I mean, many countries have even announced visa-free for Indian tourists. So how will you pitch tourism for the Indian tourists?

Dorin Recean: You will see places here that you won't see anywhere in the world. I'll give you just one example. Imagine a kilometre of underground cellars and on the left side of the road and on the right side of the road, you drive by car, you'd see barrels with wine. So, I very much hope and kindly ask you to show this to Indians at home, but also to the global south. We already made virtual tours so that people can virtually travel into these Cellars. But I'm sure that nothing can compare it to actual experience. Apart from that, we have some other natural beauties that are great for tourists. We also have the so-called wine tours where you can go from winery to winery, and there you can taste various types of wines but also taste great, great food.

Sidhant Sibal: Especially when it comes to wine, Moldovan wine, I'm trying to pitch to the Indian consumer as well. I mean, it's quite popular here, I could feel that going on the streets, but Moldovan wine is still not popular in India or maybe the global south.

Dorin Recean: We have to do a bigger effort in advertising, wines and Moldovan wineries and Moldovan wine culture. Okay, what I'd like you to know is that the largest producer of wines in Central and Eastern Europe is from Moldova. The Moldovan wines are very, very good. So, what I would like to say is come to Moldova, taste the wine, and buy Moldovan wines in the local shops. Indian investors would like to invite them to come here and see the opportunities and to invest in various fields including in the agricultural industry.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: Before I wind up, where do you see Moldova's place in the world?

Dorin Recean: &nbsp;Our objective is to be an equal member of the European Union and together as a large union, to be an example for the world on how to develop and how to bring prosperity to people.

Sidhant Sibal: But do you think that the war in Europe, war in Ukraine and the larger European continent could spread to your country after Ukraine it could be you and that could impact the vision you gave?

Dorin Recean: &nbsp;I am sure of&nbsp;that all democracies around the world will make a joint effort to help Ukraine to win the war. To elaborate again, its territories and to end the war.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: When it comes to Ukraine, you've already supported the Ukrainian refugees, but how are you supporting Ukraine politically?

Dorin Recean:&nbsp;We are always advocating with our friends so that they allocate more resources for the Ukrainian military, for Ukrainian restoration and for Ukrainian people.&nbsp;

Moldova's Prime Minister Dorin Recean has recognised India as an “important player on the international scene” and has extended an invitation to Indian students, tourists, and investors to visit his country.

Moldova's Prime Minister Dorin Recean has recognised India as an “important player on the international scene” and has extended an invitation to Indian students, tourists, and investors to visit his country. In an interview with our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Chișinău, the Moldovan capital, he praised India's economic growth, stating, “I would like to congratulate India for becoming one of the fastest-growing large economies. This is great for India and for the world as well.” He emphasised Moldova's enthusiasm of strengthening ties with India, noting “India, we see, is becoming more and more an important player on the international scene. And we are very glad that we open our relationships with India.” Prime Minister Recean expressed a desire to attract more Indian students to Moldova. He assured that Moldovan universities are gearing up to welcome additional Indian students, with English-speaking teachers, adequate learning facilities, comfortable living conditions, and affordable prices. The PM also spoke about his country's desire to join the EU, and how it has been hosting many Ukrainian refugees amid the conflict in Ukraine. He said, "Our objective is to be an equal member of the European Union and together as a large union, to be an example for the world on how to develop and how to bring prosperity to people" Sidhant Sibal: How do you see Moldova's relationship with the European Union evolving in the next few years, and what steps are you taking to strengthen this relationship? Are you hopeful of becoming an EU member? Dorin Recean: Since the December decision of the Council to open negotiations of the European Union with Moldova, we are preparing legislation. We are preparing the institutions. We're preparing the society in order to make the necessary reforms to become a democratic, resilient democracy so that we qualify for this membership. In October we will have a referendum that will be about exposing this question to the people of Moldova so that they decide on this very important matter. Most of the people in Moldova, the strong majority, are already on board. We want these decisions to be taken and correspondingly be included in our constitution. Sidhant Sibal: So, there are reports which say that your country has signed a pact with the European Union, a security pact, which will see more military engagement with Brussels. Can you just talk about it? Do you think that it's a change in your stance, in your neutrality stance? Dorin Recean: In the current environment, Moldova is strengthening its defence capacity, and we understand this not only is the responsibility of Moldova and for the Moldovan society, but also for the region. This is why we have strong cooperation with the European Union but also with other allies and friends in order to strengthen our defence capabilities. We are very next to the war. Moldova actually has 1200 kilometres of border with Ukraine, where Russia is waging a brutal and unjust war against the Ukrainians. And this is why it is our responsibility to protect this border not only for us, but also for our EU member states. Sidhant Sibal: So you're confirming the signing of the security pact. Dorin Recean: Yeah, we do have security arrangements and agreements with various countries, so that we can train, we can develop the capabilities and we can also benefit from the acquisitions of defence needs. Sidhant Sibal: So now coming to the situation you talked about, it's been two years since the situation in Ukraine has been something that has been worrisome for not only Europe, but for the world as well. What has been the stakes for Moldova? How have you been dealing with that? Dorin Recean: First of all, we have to define clearly, what is this situation in Ukraine and in Ukraine, what we have is a Russian aggression against Ukraine, against our neighbours and obviously, this affects very much, the Moldovan society, the Moldovan economy. And please know that there are also illegally stationed Russian troops here in Moldova in the Transnistrian region. So we are very much impacted by the Russian aggression in Ukraine, but also in other places. Correspondingly, we are strengthening our capabilities, we're strengthening our defence. Now not only in military terms, but also in terms of Russia waging a hybrid war against Moldova, through propaganda, through paid for protest through war, organised squads, squads to attack our police or our institutions. So, I confirm that this is very much affecting Moldova. Sidhant Sibal: Do you think the work would spread to your country? Dorin Recean: At this stage, it is not possible, a military escalation but as I said, Russia is waging a hybrid war against us. Sidhant Sibal: This has also led to a major refugee crisis. Your country is small, and it has hosted a large number of Ukrainian refugees. If you can talk about how your country has been supporting the Ukrainian refugees for the last two years. Dorin Recean: First of all, I would like to say that I'm very proud of the people of Moldova, when the Russian aggression started in Ukraine in February 2022. It's not only that the Moldova institutions reacted, but immediately also the Moldovan society, people of Moldova reacted, they were going to the to the borders, receiving the refugees that were running out of the Ukraine because of the war mostly children and women and close to one million refugees crossed Moldova back then. At a certain point in time, about 15% of the population were refugees. Currently, we are still hosting almost 100,000 refugees from Ukraine, half of them women, half of them children, and we take care of them. We are integrating them into our society into the public services so that children can go to the kindergarten, to the school, to the universities, but also for the adults to be part of our social care system, medical assistance system. So this is the effort that we are making for our friends and neighbours, Ukrainians. Sidhant Sibal: What's your biggest concern or fear with the war at your doorstep? And additionally, do you foresee the war coming to an end anytime soon? Dorin Recean: The biggest issue is the atrocities that Russia is committing in Ukraine. Killing people, killing men, women, older people, children, that is the biggest humanitarian problem. Obviously, the war next to our border is a problem for Moldova as well, in economic terms, in social terms. So this is a problem, actually, not just for Moldova, but for the whole of Europe. And I would say also for the whole of the world, when International Law is not respected and when a country is allowed to brutally intervene and to kill people in another country. Sidhant Sibal: Switzerland is going to host the peace summit, any hopes? Dorin Recean: I think what is important is that more and more countries agree on a solution to support Ukraine so that Ukraine can regain its territory and be able to end this war. Sidhant Sibal: Now moving to the larger problems perhaps in Europe, how do you see immigration as an issue for the European continent? Dorin Recean: I think it is important for all the countries to be able to build a system so that migration is an asset actually, and economic and social assets. And correspondingly to build the institutions but also the culture to be able to integrate into the society. We have this experience as I said, already, we're hosting almost 100,000 refugees from Ukraine and you would see that they are very much welcome here in Moldova, and Moldovans feel good about. Sidhant Sibal: My question is largely related to immigration from outside the larger European region. What's your view? Do you see it as a challenge for Europe? Dorin Recean: If migration is managed well, then it is an asset. Sidhant Sibal: Now moving to something that perhaps for the first time a leader is talking about that India-Moldova relationship, how do you see the relationship between the two countries panning out? Dorin Recean: First of all, I would like to congratulate India for becoming the fastest-growing large economies and I think this is great for India, but this is great for the world as well. India, we see, is becoming more and more an important player on the international scene. And we are very glad that we open our relationships with India. We are very glad that we opened our embassy in Delhi and hope that soon India will also open by reciprocity an embassy here in Chișinău. We see a great potential for exchanges, social exchanges, but also economic exchange. Moldova, you will see, has great potential in agriculture, particularly wines, in IT, in pharmaceuticals, in energy, and correspondingly both countries can benefit from this opportunity. I would like to mention that already. We have a large Indian contractor building our electricity, high voltage line that integrates our grid into the European Union grid. We have a large student community here of Indians, studying particularly pharmaceuticals and medicine. We would like to increase this effort so that more Indians can come here and study and work. We see great potential for the Indian IT and business service providers to open near-shoring operations here in Moldova. So, we see great potential. Sidhant Sibal: What are you doing to get investment from India? Why should an Indian businessman invest in Moldova, what are the sectors that they should look forward to? Dorin Recean: Let me let me tell you, the fact that Moldova has great potential as I said in pharmaceuticals, in IT, in energy, in agricultural , industrialisation of agriculture, and Moldova now has open access to the market of the European Union, which is the largest, the largest market in the world, with the most wealthy consumers. So, this is the great potential, and this is the great asset that Moldova has. The other opportunity is for the Indian investments here for equipment manufacturing for electronics, not only for the European market, but also in preparation of the reconstruction of Ukraine. Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India's role in terms of global governance? India is a leading voice in the global south, it has taken a leadership role in many senses. So, in those ways, how do you see India taking the mantle of global leadership? Dorin Recean: I said, we are we are very glad to see India growing and correspondingly this means also more responsibility and we welcome this assuming of responsibility by India to become to become a voice for the Global South, but also a voice that is making sure that the there is an equilibrium in the world. We see now, quite a number of crises and this crisis need to be managed responsibly, and big democracies are playing a very important role in making sure that international law is observed. Sidhant Sibal: And how do you plan to welcome Indian students, something you are very interested in. Dorin Recean: We have a special program, now that we have an embassy in Delhi. We have a special program to advertise and to show the opportunities over for education here in Moldova. We also opened consular services so that it is much easier to apply and receive a visa. Here at home, the universities are preparing themselves to host additional students from India with the places to learn, with the teachers speaking English with all the necessary for comfortable living and at affordable prices. So, we already have quite an important capacity to host additional students, but we are also working hard on increasing capacity. On that matter, I would like to say that the community here is quite vibrant. The city, the capital but also other cities in Moldova, are very good places to live, very good places to entertain yourself. So, this is again also a very important component of a student's experience. Sidhant Sibal: How do you plan to pitch Moldova as a tourism destination for the Indian travellers who have been pretty much going out? I mean, many countries have even announced visa-free for Indian tourists. So how will you pitch tourism for the Indian tourists? Dorin Recean: You will see places here that you won't see anywhere in the world. I'll give you just one example. Imagine a kilometre of underground cellars and on the left side of the road and on the right side of the road, you drive by car, you'd see barrels with wine. So, I very much hope and kindly ask you to show this to Indians at home, but also to the global south. We already made virtual tours so that people can virtually travel into these Cellars. But I'm sure that nothing can compare it to actual experience. Apart from that, we have some other natural beauties that are great for tourists. We also have the so-called wine tours where you can go from winery to winery, and there you can taste various types of wines but also taste great, great food. Sidhant Sibal: Especially when it comes to wine, Moldovan wine, I'm trying to pitch to the Indian consumer as well. I mean, it's quite popular here, I could feel that going on the streets, but Moldovan wine is still not popular in India or maybe the global south. Dorin Recean: We have to do a bigger effort in advertising, wines and Moldovan wineries and Moldovan wine culture. Okay, what I'd like you to know is that the largest producer of wines in Central and Eastern Europe is from Moldova. The Moldovan wines are very, very good. So, what I would like to say is come to Moldova, taste the wine, and buy Moldovan wines in the local shops. Indian investors would like to invite them to come here and see the opportunities and to invest in various fields including in the agricultural industry. Sidhant Sibal: Before I wind up, where do you see Moldova's place in the world? Dorin Recean: Our objective is to be an equal member of the European Union and together as a large union, to be an example for the world on how to develop and how to bring prosperity to people. Sidhant Sibal: But do you think that the war in Europe, war in Ukraine and the larger European continent could spread to your country after Ukraine it could be you and that could impact the vision you gave? Dorin Recean: I am sure of that all democracies around the world will make a joint effort to help Ukraine to win the war. To elaborate again, its territories and to end the war. Sidhant Sibal: When it comes to Ukraine, you've already supported the Ukrainian refugees, but how are you supporting Ukraine politically? Dorin Recean: We are always advocating with our friends so that they allocate more resources for the Ukrainian military, for Ukrainian restoration and for Ukrainian people.

Moldova PM Recean invites Indian students and tourists, calls India ‘important player’ globally

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 claimed on Saturday (May 18) that Russian shelling targeted civilians in two cities in the northeastern region of Kharkiv.

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 claimed on Saturday (May 18) that Russian shelling targeted civilians in two cities in the northeastern region of Kharkiv. A report by the news agency Reuters said that Ukrainian prosecutors were investigating a Russian air strike on a residential area of the regional capital Kharkiv in which six civilians were wounded, including a 13-year-old girl, 16-year-old male and an eight-year-old as a potential war crime Prosecutors said that about 70 kilometres to the northeast in Vovchansk, Russian shelling killed a 60-year-old woman and injured three other civilians. Also read | Russia claims to have captured another village in Kharkiv region, Ukraine struggles on eastern front Since the war began in late February 2022, Russia has denied deliberately targeting civilians but thousands have been killed and injured. 'Ukrainian forces on surer footing' The above developments came as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in his nightly video address that the military was on surer footing, particularly in Kharkiv. "The occupier (Russia) is losing its infantry and equipment, a tangible loss, even though, just as in 2022, it was counting on a quick advance on our land," President Zelensky added. Also watch | Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes × Zelensky also said his forces repelled an assault farther south in the eastern Donetsk region around Chasiv Yar, a city seen as a key target in the Russian offensive. "Our soldiers destroyed more than 20 units of the occupier's armoured vehicles," he added. Russia shoots down Tochka-U missile fired by Ukraine Meanwhile, across the border in Russia's Belgorod region, Moscow's defence ministry said on Saturday that its forces shot down a Tochka-U missile fired by Ukraine. Later in the day, Belgorod regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said a Ukrainian drone attack injured a woman and a man in the village of Petrovka. They were treated for shrapnel injuries, Gladkov said in a post on Telegram. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: Russian shelling targets civilians in two cities in Kharkiv, claims Kyiv

Russia on Saturday (May 18) said that it had seized a village near Vovchansk in the Kharkiv region, where it launched a new offensive last week. The Russian defence ministry said: "Units of the northern troop group liberated the village of Starytsya in the Kharkiv region, and continued to advance deep into the enemy's defences."&nbsp;

The announcement comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he expects Russia to step up its offensive in the northeast. However, he also revived the request for advanced air defence systems in its fight against Russia. He said that Kyiv has only a quarter of the air defences it needs to hold the front line.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georgia-president-says-vetoed-controversial-foreign-influence-law-722880">Georgia's 'foreign agents' bill: President vetoes controversial law after weeks of protests</a>&nbsp;

Zelensky said Russian troops managed to advance between five to 10 kilometres (3-6 miles) along the northeastern border before being stopped by Ukrainian forces. The president also added that the region could be the "first wave" in a wider offensive.&nbsp;

"I won't say it's a great success (for&nbsp;Russia) but we have to be sober and understand that they are going deeper into our territory," he said, speaking from Kyiv on Friday. It was his first interview with foreign media since the offensive began.&nbsp;

"Today, we have about 25 per cent of what we need to defend Ukraine. I'm talking about air defence," he said, further adding that Ukraine needs "120 to 130" F-16 fighter jets or other advanced aircraft to counter Russian advance.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/polish-pm-says-will-spend-over-23-bn-euros-to-fortify-border-with-ukraine-722854">Polish PM says will spend over 2.3 billion euros to fortify border with Ukraine</a>&nbsp;

A similar issue was highlighted by Major-General Vadym Skibitsky, who is the deputy head of Ukrainian Defence Intelligence. He told the Economist last week: "Our problem is very simple: we have no weapons. They always knew April and May would be a difficult time for us."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a Ukrainian official has said that the Russian forces have captured dozens of civilians in the border town of Vovchansk, media reported. A top regional police officer alleged that Moscow has been using the captives as "human shields".&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Russia warns encroachments on territory will not go unanswered&nbsp;

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<h2>What does Russia want with&nbsp;Kharkiv?&nbsp;</h2>

<meta name="uuid" content="uuidr6GzaJ5JJlIG" />Russian President Vladimir Putin said&nbsp;there was no intention at this stage to take Kharkiv, which is Ukraine's second city. It is about 30 kilometres from the border and more than one million people still live there. As per news agencies,&nbsp;<meta name="uuid" content="uuidr6GzaJ5JJlIG" />Ukraine has evacuated almost 10,000 people from the northeast border area.&nbsp;

During a trip to China this week, Putin said that the northeastern offensive was in retaliation for Ukraine's shelling of border regions and that Moscow was trying to create a "security zone".&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russia on Saturday (May 18) said that it had seized a village near Vovchansk in the Kharkiv region, where it launched a new offensive last week. The Russian defence ministry said: "Units of the northern troop group liberated the village of Starytsya in the Kharkiv region, and continued to advance deep into the enemy's defences.

Russia on Saturday (May 18) said that it had seized a village near Vovchansk in the Kharkiv region, where it launched a new offensive last week. The Russian defence ministry said: "Units of the northern troop group liberated the village of Starytsya in the Kharkiv region, and continued to advance deep into the enemy's defences." The announcement comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he expects Russia to step up its offensive in the northeast. However, he also revived the request for advanced air defence systems in its fight against Russia. He said that Kyiv has only a quarter of the air defences it needs to hold the front line. Also read: Georgia's 'foreign agents' bill: President vetoes controversial law after weeks of protests Zelensky said Russian troops managed to advance between five to 10 kilometres (3-6 miles) along the northeastern border before being stopped by Ukrainian forces. The president also added that the region could be the "first wave" in a wider offensive. "I won't say it's a great success (for Russia) but we have to be sober and understand that they are going deeper into our territory," he said, speaking from Kyiv on Friday. It was his first interview with foreign media since the offensive began. "Today, we have about 25 per cent of what we need to defend Ukraine. I'm talking about air defence," he said, further adding that Ukraine needs "120 to 130" F-16 fighter jets or other advanced aircraft to counter Russian advance. Also read: Polish PM says will spend over 2.3 billion euros to fortify border with Ukraine A similar issue was highlighted by Major-General Vadym Skibitsky, who is the deputy head of Ukrainian Defence Intelligence. He told the Economist last week: "Our problem is very simple: we have no weapons. They always knew April and May would be a difficult time for us." Meanwhile, a Ukrainian official has said that the Russian forces have captured dozens of civilians in the border town of Vovchansk, media reported. A top regional police officer alleged that Moscow has been using the captives as "human shields". Watch: Russia warns encroachments on territory will not go unanswered × What does Russia want with Kharkiv? Russian President Vladimir Putin said there was no intention at this stage to take Kharkiv, which is Ukraine's second city. It is about 30 kilometres from the border and more than one million people still live there. As per news agencies, Ukraine has evacuated almost 10,000 people from the northeast border area. During a trip to China this week, Putin said that the northeastern offensive was in retaliation for Ukraine's shelling of border regions and that Moscow was trying to create a "security zone". 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 (With inputs from agencies)

Russia claims to have captured another village in Kharkiv region, Ukraine struggles on eastern front

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned on Friday (May 17) that Russia could intensify its offensive in Ukraine, adding his government would only accept a "fair peace" despite the West's calls for a quick solution.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned on Friday (May 17) that Russia could intensify its offensive in Ukraine, adding his government would only accept a "fair peace" despite the West's calls for a quick solution. In an interview with the news agency AFP, Zelensky also acknowledged that his military needed more men to boost the forces' morale. "We need to staff the reserves... A large number of (brigades) are empty," Zelensky said amid a mobilisation law coming into force on Saturday. The law lowers the minimum age of mobilisation from 27 to 25 and streamlines mobilisation procedures. However, it scraps a vital proposal that would have given soldiers serving for more than 36 months the possibility to be discharged. Also read | Russia has no plans of capturing Ukraine's Kharkiv, forces creating 'buffer zone': Putin Zelensky also repeated pleas for allies to send more air defence and fighter jets and said the "biggest advantage" for Russia was a ban on Ukraine using Western-donated weapons to strike Russian territory. 'No one is going to give up' Zelensky, who has been the face of Ukraine's resistance against Russia since Moscow launched its offensive in February 2022, told AFP on Friday that his country would hold its defensive lines and stop any major Russian breakthrough. Also watch | Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes × "No one is going to give up," he said. "We want the war to end with a fair peace for us. While the West wants the war to end. Period. As soon as possible. And for them, this is a fair peace," the Ukrainian president added. An appeal to China Zelensky appealed to China and other countries from the developing world to attend a peace summit with dozens of leaders being hosted by neutral Switzerland next month to which Russia has not been invited. Zelensky pointed out that global players like China have influence over Russia. "And the more such countries we have on our side, on the side of the end of the war, I would say, the more Russia will have to move and reckon with," he told the news agency. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: Russia could intensify its offensive, need more men to boost forces' morale, says Zelensky

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Saturday (May 18) said that his country would invest over 2.3 billion euros ($2.5 billion) to strengthen its eastern border, the EU's eastern flank, against potential foes.

"We have taken the decision to invest 10 billion zlotys for our security and above all to secure our eastern border," he said, calling the project an "eastern shield".&nbsp;

Poland's eastern border comprises Belarus, Ukraine and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad.

"The reinforcement of 400 kilometres (about 250 miles) of the border with Russia and Belarus will be an element of dissuasion, a strategy to push back the war at our frontiers," he said, adding that the work had not started.

Warsaw has strongly supported Kyiv since the beginning of Russia's offensive against Ukraine and has acted as a transit route for the weaponry being provided to Ukraine by its Western allies.

Warsaw has also revamped its army and raised the defence expenditure to four per cent of GDP, making it the European Union's highest percentage.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-meets-military-leaders-in-kharkiv-says-situation-very-difficult-722148">Also read:&nbsp;Ukrainian shelling claims lives of four in Donetsk, says Russia</a>

<h2>Russia captures another village in Ukraine Kharkiv</h2>

Meanwhile, Russia on Saturday said that it has captured a village in the vicinity of Kharkiv region's Vovchansk, where Moscow launched its new offensive last week.

"Units of the northern troop group liberated the village of Starytsya in the Kharkiv region, and continued to advance deep into the enemy's defences," the defence ministry said.&nbsp;

<h2>Zelensky meets military leaders in Kharkiv, says situation 'very difficult'</h2>

Zelensky on Thursday (May 16) said the current military situation in Kharkiv's northeastern region was "extremely difficult". However, he said it was still "under control".&nbsp;

His statement came following his meeting with the military chiefs near the front line.

"The situation in the Kharkiv region is generally under control, and our soldiers are inflicting significant losses on the occupier. However, the area remains extremely difficult. We are reinforcing our units," he said in a post on his official Telegram channel.

The Ukrainian military had earlier said that it had managed to halt Russia's advances in some of the places partially.

"Our defence forces have partially stabilised the situation. The advance of the enemy in certain zones and localities has been halted," army spokesman Nazar Voloshin said on state TV on Thursday.&nbsp;

In a daily briefing, Ukraine's General Staff said its forces had "significantly reduced the activity of the Russian occupiers."

"But the enemy is still trying to create the conditions for further advances," Voloshin warned.

(With inputs from agencies)

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Saturday (May 18) said that his country would invest over 2.3 billion euros ($2.5 billion) to strengthen its eastern border, the EU's eastern flank, against potential foes.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Saturday (May 18) said that his country would invest over 2.3 billion euros ($2.5 billion) to strengthen its eastern border, the EU's eastern flank, against potential foes. "We have taken the decision to invest 10 billion zlotys for our security and above all to secure our eastern border," he said, calling the project an "eastern shield". Poland's eastern border comprises Belarus, Ukraine and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad. "The reinforcement of 400 kilometres (about 250 miles) of the border with Russia and Belarus will be an element of dissuasion, a strategy to push back the war at our frontiers," he said, adding that the work had not started. Warsaw has strongly supported Kyiv since the beginning of Russia's offensive against Ukraine and has acted as a transit route for the weaponry being provided to Ukraine by its Western allies. Warsaw has also revamped its army and raised the defence expenditure to four per cent of GDP, making it the European Union's highest percentage. Also read: Ukrainian shelling claims lives of four in Donetsk, says Russia Russia captures another village in Ukraine Kharkiv Meanwhile, Russia on Saturday said that it has captured a village in the vicinity of Kharkiv region's Vovchansk, where Moscow launched its new offensive last week. "Units of the northern troop group liberated the village of Starytsya in the Kharkiv region, and continued to advance deep into the enemy's defences," the defence ministry said. Zelensky meets military leaders in Kharkiv, says situation 'very difficult' Zelensky on Thursday (May 16) said the current military situation in Kharkiv's northeastern region was "extremely difficult". However, he said it was still "under control". His statement came following his meeting with the military chiefs near the front line. "The situation in the Kharkiv region is generally under control, and our soldiers are inflicting significant losses on the occupier. However, the area remains extremely difficult. We are reinforcing our units," he said in a post on his official Telegram channel. The Ukrainian military had earlier said that it had managed to halt Russia's advances in some of the places partially. "Our defence forces have partially stabilised the situation. The advance of the enemy in certain zones and localities has been halted," army spokesman Nazar Voloshin said on state TV on Thursday. In a daily briefing, Ukraine's General Staff said its forces had "significantly reduced the activity of the Russian occupiers." "But the enemy is still trying to create the conditions for further advances," Voloshin warned. (With inputs from agencies)

Polish PM says will spend over 2.3 billion euros to fortify border with Ukraine

As the Russia-Ukraine war drags on the US and South Korea have accused North Korea of sending weapons to Russia, a claim that Kim Jong-un's sister has vehemently denied.

North Korea dismisses rumour of arms export to Russia

Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday (May 15) announced that the United States will provide Ukraine with an additional $2 billion in foreign military financing as he concluded a two-day visit to the war-ravaged nation.&nbsp;

He also said that the US was working to immediately send more ammunition and weapons to the front lines to help Ukrainians in their fight against Russia.&nbsp;

His visit came after Russia opened a new front in the war, which started in February 2022. Russia began a ground incursion into the northeastern Kharkiv region and has intensified the attacks in the past couple of days.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-plays-guitar-in-kyiv-to-signify-defiance-hope-ends-up-getting-slammed-721822">Antony Blinken plays guitar in Kyiv to signify defiance and hope, ends up getting slammed</a>&nbsp;

At a joint press conference in Kyiv alongside Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, Blinken said, "We will provide an additional $2 billion in foreign military financing for Ukraine."&nbsp;

He said that the US has put this together in a "first-of-its-kind defence enterprise fund", and it has three components. He explained that the first is to provide weapons today so that it will assist Ukraine in acquiring those weapons. Secondly, he highlighted the importance of investing in Ukraine's defence industrial base.

Blinken stated that it will help to strengthen its capacity to produce what the nation needs for itself but also to produce for others. Finally, Ukraine can purchase military equipment from other countries, not just the US, using this fund.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mysterious-new-symbol-appears-on-russias-military-equipment-heres-what-it-is-721687">Mysterious new symbol appears on Russia’s military equipment. Here’s what it is</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Russia unleashes new attacks on Ukraine's Kherson&nbsp;

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<h2>Putin hails Russian advances&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed his country's troops for advancing on "all fronts" on the battlefield in Ukraine, days after Moscow launched a major new ground assault.&nbsp;

"In all directions our troops are constantly, every day, improving their positions," Putin told Russia's military leaders, including new Defence Minister Andrei Belousov, in a televised meeting.&nbsp;

The Russian president held his first public meeting with Belousov, former Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu in his new role as Security Council chief and other government army officials.

He said that the Russian soldiers are "improving their position" along the "entire frontline" in Ukraine. Putin stresses that "whoever is quicker to master the newest means of armed combat wins".&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday (May 15) announced that the United States will provide Ukraine with an additional $2 billion in foreign military financing as he concluded a two-day visit to the war-ravaged nation.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday (May 15) announced that the United States will provide Ukraine with an additional $2 billion in foreign military financing as he concluded a two-day visit to the war-ravaged nation. He also said that the US was working to immediately send more ammunition and weapons to the front lines to help Ukrainians in their fight against Russia. His visit came after Russia opened a new front in the war, which started in February 2022. Russia began a ground incursion into the northeastern Kharkiv region and has intensified the attacks in the past couple of days. Also read: Antony Blinken plays guitar in Kyiv to signify defiance and hope, ends up getting slammed At a joint press conference in Kyiv alongside Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, Blinken said, "We will provide an additional $2 billion in foreign military financing for Ukraine." He said that the US has put this together in a "first-of-its-kind defence enterprise fund", and it has three components. He explained that the first is to provide weapons today so that it will assist Ukraine in acquiring those weapons. Secondly, he highlighted the importance of investing in Ukraine's defence industrial base. Blinken stated that it will help to strengthen its capacity to produce what the nation needs for itself but also to produce for others. Finally, Ukraine can purchase military equipment from other countries, not just the US, using this fund. Also read: Mysterious new symbol appears on Russia’s military equipment. Here’s what it is Watch: Russia unleashes new attacks on Ukraine's Kherson × Putin hails Russian advances Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed his country's troops for advancing on "all fronts" on the battlefield in Ukraine, days after Moscow launched a major new ground assault. "In all directions our troops are constantly, every day, improving their positions," Putin told Russia's military leaders, including new Defence Minister Andrei Belousov, in a televised meeting. The Russian president held his first public meeting with Belousov, former Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu in his new role as Security Council chief and other government army officials. He said that the Russian soldiers are "improving their position" along the "entire frontline" in Ukraine. Putin stresses that "whoever is quicker to master the newest means of armed combat wins". 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 (With inputs from agencies)

US offers new $2 billion aid to Ukraine; Putin hails advances on 'all fronts'

A close ally of Russian President Vladimir warned on Thursday (May 16) that Ukraine was dragging the West into a major global war, and urged Western leaders to act responsibly to avoid a catastrophe.

A close ally of Russian President Vladimir warned on Thursday (May 16) that Ukraine was dragging the West into a major global war, and urged Western leaders to act responsibly to avoid a catastrophe. Vyacheslav Volodin, the speaker of the State Duma, said that Ukraine " is dragging the United States and European countries into a big war." Volodin, a member of Russia's security council, said that Ukrainian lawmakers were trying to convince the United States to allow Kyiv to use American-supplied weapons to strike Russian territory. A warning of use of American, European weapons in Russia "This path leads to a tragedy that can affect all of humanity. Western politicians need to realise their responsibility and do everything to avoid bringing the situation to a global catastrophe," he added. Also read | US offers new $2 billion aid to Ukraine; Putin hails advances on 'all fronts' The Putin ally also said that any use of American and European weapons to attack peaceful cities of the Russian Federation will require the use of more powerful weapons to protect the citizens of the country. Volodin's remarks came as the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the US had "not encouraged or enabled strikes outside of Ukraine, but ultimately Ukraine has to make decisions for itself about how it’s going to conduct this war." "We’ve been clear about our own policy, but again, these are decisions that Ukraine has to make, Ukraine will make for itself," Blinken said on Wednesday. Ukraine fighting Russia in Kharkiv Meanwhile, in the latest news from the war, Ukraine said on Thursday that its military was fighting Russian troops in northern districts of Vovchansk in the Kharkiv region. The capture of Vovchansk, 5 km (3 miles) from the border, would be Russia's most significant gain since it launched an incursion into the region last week. Also watch | Russia claims downing American missiles × In a statement, the Ukrainian General Staff said, "The enemy's plans to penetrate deeper into the town of Vovchansk and gain a foothold there were thwarted." (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: Putin's close ally says Kyiv is dragging West into major global conflict