<p>The European Union's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell on Thursday (July 20) put forward a proposal of a 20 billion euro (USD 22.4 billion) fund for weapons, ammunitions and other military help for Ukraine. However, the plan would need more scrutiny from EU governments before it can go ahead. High Representative Josep Borrell presented the plan in EU foreign ministers' meeting in Brussels. This was part of an effort to put European support for Ukraine on a longer-term footing. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is in its second year now.</p>

<p>The proposal comes amid an international drive to give Ukraine long-term security assurances, as announced by members of the G7 on the sidelines of last week's NATO summit in Vilnius.</p>

<p>"We proposed the creation of a dedicated section under the European Peace Facility to provide up to 5 billion euros a year for the next four years for the defence needs of Ukraine," Borrell told a news conference after the meeting.</p>

<p><strong>Gravitas: Why are Wagner mercenaries training near Poland?</strong></p>

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<p>"This is the evaluation of the needs and the cost of our long-term security commitments to Ukraine," he said.</p>

<p>The European Peace Facility (EPF) was created in 2021. It is meant to finance actions that seek to prevent conflicts, build peace and strengthen international security. The EPF was initially worth 5.7 billion euros. It has since grown to 12 billion.</p>

<p>The facility is used to reimburse EU countries for at least part of the cost of weapons, ammunition and other military aid that they give to nations outside the bloc.</p>

<h2><strong>A welcome idea</strong></h2>

<p>The idea of longer-term military aid for Ukraine was welcomed by several ministers at the meeting but they said that the details about the funding would be subject to further discussions. Their governments would have to pay for any boost to the fund.</p>

<p>"A fund for the defence of Ukraine is going to be developed," Portuguese Foreign Minister Joao Gomes Cravinho told reporters. "As for the amounts, we are not there yet."</p>

<p>Borrell said that detailed talks among EU foreign and defence ministers on this fund will take place during a ministerial meeting which will take place at the end of August in Spain.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-starts-firing-cluster-munitions-against-russian-forces-amid-criticism-617861">Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism</a></strong></p>

<p>It was a landmark decision last year when the European Union decided to finance arms supply to Ukraine. Before that, the EU focused only on economic and political co-operation. It avoided involvement in armed conflicts.</p>

<p>But the debate on the new proposal are unlikely to be straightforward.</p>

<p>Hungary is holding up the disbursement of 500 million euros in current EPF funds for Ukraine aid, demanding that Hungarian bank OTP first be removed from a Ukrainian blacklist.</p>

<p>Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said Budapest would take the same stance with the new proposal.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The European Union's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell on Thursday (July 20) put forward a proposal of a 20 billion euro (USD 22.4 billion) fund for weapons, ammunitions and other military help for Ukraine.

The European Union's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell on Thursday (July 20) put forward a proposal of a 20 billion euro (USD 22.4 billion) fund for weapons, ammunitions and other military help for Ukraine. However, the plan would need more scrutiny from EU governments before it can go ahead. High Representative Josep Borrell presented the plan in EU foreign ministers' meeting in Brussels. This was part of an effort to put European support for Ukraine on a longer-term footing. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is in its second year now. The proposal comes amid an international drive to give Ukraine long-term security assurances, as announced by members of the G7 on the sidelines of last week's NATO summit in Vilnius. "We proposed the creation of a dedicated section under the European Peace Facility to provide up to 5 billion euros a year for the next four years for the defence needs of Ukraine," Borrell told a news conference after the meeting. Gravitas: Why are Wagner mercenaries training near Poland? × "This is the evaluation of the needs and the cost of our long-term security commitments to Ukraine," he said. The European Peace Facility (EPF) was created in 2021. It is meant to finance actions that seek to prevent conflicts, build peace and strengthen international security. The EPF was initially worth 5.7 billion euros. It has since grown to 12 billion. The facility is used to reimburse EU countries for at least part of the cost of weapons, ammunition and other military aid that they give to nations outside the bloc. A welcome idea The idea of longer-term military aid for Ukraine was welcomed by several ministers at the meeting but they said that the details about the funding would be subject to further discussions. Their governments would have to pay for any boost to the fund. "A fund for the defence of Ukraine is going to be developed," Portuguese Foreign Minister Joao Gomes Cravinho told reporters. "As for the amounts, we are not there yet." Borrell said that detailed talks among EU foreign and defence ministers on this fund will take place during a ministerial meeting which will take place at the end of August in Spain. Also Read | Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism It was a landmark decision last year when the European Union decided to finance arms supply to Ukraine. Before that, the EU focused only on economic and political co-operation. It avoided involvement in armed conflicts. But the debate on the new proposal are unlikely to be straightforward. Hungary is holding up the disbursement of 500 million euros in current EPF funds for Ukraine aid, demanding that Hungarian bank OTP first be removed from a Ukrainian blacklist. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said Budapest would take the same stance with the new proposal. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

EU kicks off talks on 20 billion euro military fund for Ukraine

<p>Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday (July 19) that it would deem all ships travelling to Ukrainian ports to be carriers of military cargo. It added that countries the flag of which would potentially fly on the ships will be considered to be party to the conflict on the Ukrainian side. Russia has taken this stance after its decision this week to pull out of the United Nations-brokered Black Sea grain import deal. This deal had previously guaranteed the safety of Ukrainian exports for the past one year.</p>

<p>"In connection with the termination of the Black Sea Initiative and the end of the maritime humanitarian corridor, from 00.00 Moscow time on July 20, 2023 (2100 GMT on Wednesday) all ships proceeding to Ukrainian ports in Black Sea waters will be considered as potential carriers of military cargo," the ministry said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | BRICS Summit 2023: FM Lavrov to represent Russia at the Summit</strong></p>

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<p>The ministry also said that Russia was also declaring southeastern and northwestern parts of the Black Sea's international waters to be temporarily unsafe for navigation. The ministry did not give details about the parts of the sea which would be affected.</p>

<h2><strong>Putin stikes conciliatory tone</strong></h2>

<p>Just when Russian Defence Ministry appeared to raise stakes, Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared to strike a conciliatory tone. He said that Russia can 'consider' returning to the grain deal if Russia's demands are "fully met".</p>

<p>"The continuation of the grain deal in its current form has lost all meaning," Putin said at a government meeting, "of course we will consider the possibility of returning to it -- but only under one condition: if all principles under which Russia agreed to participate in the deal are fully taken into account and fulfilled."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Spike in wheat prices</strong></h2>

<p>Wheat prices rose on the same day Russia said it was ceasing its participation in the grain deal. There was 3 per cent increase in wheat futures. The prices hit a high of 689.25 cents per bushel. The prices remained well below the peak they reached in May last year. The price at that time was 1177.5 cents per bushel.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia attacked grain infrastructure, accuses Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday (July 19), Ukraine accused Russia of attacking grain infrastructure during overnight strikes that were aimed at two of Ukraine's Black Sea ports. Ukraine said it will not be intimidated from working to keep grain exports moving out of them.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-boss-yevgeny-prigozhin-seen-first-time-in-public-post-failed-coup-attempt-617578">Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin seen first time in public post failed coup attempt</a></strong></p>

<p>Russia has as of now, attacked the Odesa region for second consecutive night</p>

<p>"Russian terrorists absolutely deliberately targeted the infrastructure of the grain deal," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on the Telegram messaging app. "Every Russian missile - is a strike not only on Ukraine but on everyone in the world who wants normal and safe life."</p>

<p>Due to its significant grains exports, Ukraine is often called 'breadbasket of the world'. After Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. The grain exports were impeded. This had raised the spectre of a global food crisis.</p>

<p>Turkey and the United Nations then brokered a deal between Ukraine and Russia. The Black Sea grain deal was intended to facilitate Russian and Ukrainian agricultural exports. The deal expired on July 17. Russia declined to renew its participation.</p>

<p>There has been a constant complaint from Moscow that a parallel deal to ease rules for Russian exports of food and fertilisers was not being implemented. Kyiv has called for security guarantees to allow shipping to resume without Russian participation.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday (July 19) that it would deem all ships travelling to Ukrainian ports to be carriers of military cargo. It added that countries the flag of which would potentially fly on the ships will be considered to be party to the conflict on the Ukrainian side.

Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday (July 19) that it would deem all ships travelling to Ukrainian ports to be carriers of military cargo. It added that countries the flag of which would potentially fly on the ships will be considered to be party to the conflict on the Ukrainian side. Russia has taken this stance after its decision this week to pull out of the United Nations-brokered Black Sea grain import deal. This deal had previously guaranteed the safety of Ukrainian exports for the past one year. "In connection with the termination of the Black Sea Initiative and the end of the maritime humanitarian corridor, from 00.00 Moscow time on July 20, 2023 (2100 GMT on Wednesday) all ships proceeding to Ukrainian ports in Black Sea waters will be considered as potential carriers of military cargo," the ministry said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app. Watch | BRICS Summit 2023: FM Lavrov to represent Russia at the Summit × The ministry also said that Russia was also declaring southeastern and northwestern parts of the Black Sea's international waters to be temporarily unsafe for navigation. The ministry did not give details about the parts of the sea which would be affected. Putin stikes conciliatory tone Just when Russian Defence Ministry appeared to raise stakes, Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared to strike a conciliatory tone. He said that Russia can 'consider' returning to the grain deal if Russia's demands are "fully met". "The continuation of the grain deal in its current form has lost all meaning," Putin said at a government meeting, "of course we will consider the possibility of returning to it -- but only under one condition: if all principles under which Russia agreed to participate in the deal are fully taken into account and fulfilled." Spike in wheat prices Wheat prices rose on the same day Russia said it was ceasing its participation in the grain deal. There was 3 per cent increase in wheat futures. The prices hit a high of 689.25 cents per bushel. The prices remained well below the peak they reached in May last year. The price at that time was 1177.5 cents per bushel. Russia attacked grain infrastructure, accuses Ukraine On Wednesday (July 19), Ukraine accused Russia of attacking grain infrastructure during overnight strikes that were aimed at two of Ukraine's Black Sea ports. Ukraine said it will not be intimidated from working to keep grain exports moving out of them. Also Read | Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin seen first time in public post failed coup attempt Russia has as of now, attacked the Odesa region for second consecutive night "Russian terrorists absolutely deliberately targeted the infrastructure of the grain deal," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on the Telegram messaging app. "Every Russian missile - is a strike not only on Ukraine but on everyone in the world who wants normal and safe life." Due to its significant grains exports, Ukraine is often called 'breadbasket of the world'. After Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. The grain exports were impeded. This had raised the spectre of a global food crisis. Turkey and the United Nations then brokered a deal between Ukraine and Russia. The Black Sea grain deal was intended to facilitate Russian and Ukrainian agricultural exports. The deal expired on July 17. Russia declined to renew its participation. There has been a constant complaint from Moscow that a parallel deal to ease rules for Russian exports of food and fertilisers was not being implemented. Kyiv has called for security guarantees to allow shipping to resume without Russian participation. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Blow hot blow cold? Putin sounds conciliatory but defence ministry raises stakes on grain ships

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<p>After Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal, which allowed the safe passage for Ukrainian grain exports, global wheat prices have exponentially shot up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday, wheat prices on the European stock exchange soared by nearly nine per cent from the previous day to $284 per tonne. US wheat futures saw a jump of 8.5 per cent — the highest daily rise since the war broke out in February last year. Similarly, corn prices were up five to four per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The immediate effect of the suspension is that millions of tonnes of wheat that was bound for Africa and West Asia has been stranded. While the wheat remains stuck, the Russian side has started "deliberately targeting the grain deal infrastructure", according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts argue that the domino effect will be reflected in global inflation which had calmed down after a long time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Russia’s decision to suspend participation in the Black Sea Grain Initiative will worsen food insecurity and harm millions of vulnerable people around the world,” said Adam Hodge, a spokesperson for the US National Security Council.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-russia-formally-backs-out-of-black-sea-grain-deal-what-happens-now-616637" target="_blank"><strong>Explained | Russia formally backs out of Black Sea grain deal. What happens now?</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>What is the Black Sea grain deal?</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine is one of the world’s biggest exporters of food grains, such as wheat and corn, and has played a significant role in the UN’s food aid programmes. Therefore, when Russia invaded and blocked Ukrainian ports, prices of food grains soared across parts of the world.</p>

<p>After months of jeopardy, a deal brokered by Turkey and the United Nations in July last year lifted a Russian naval blockade of Ukraine's Black Sea cities and set terms for millions of tonnes of wheat and other grain to start flowing from Ukraine's filled silos and ports.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-withdraws-from-ukraine-grain-deal-can-zelensky-bank-on-eu-617063" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | Russia withdraws from Ukraine grain deal, can Zelensky bank on EU?</strong></a></p>

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<p>Since then, the deal's expiration date has been extended multiple times with Moscow waiting till the eleventh hour to grant an extension. However, it has done so reluctantly as the demands set by Russian President Vladimir Putin have not been met by the Western nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prior to calling off the deal on Monday, Moscow wanted its Russian Agricultural Bank (Rosselkhozbank) to be reconnected to the SWIFT international payments system after it was cut off due to sanctions by the European Union in June 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Western world has accused Moscow of using food commodities, after gas as a means to leverage its position in the ongoing conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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After Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal, which allowed the safe passage for Ukrainian grain exports, global wheat prices have exponentially shot up. On Wednesday, wheat prices on the European stock exchange soared by nearly nine per cent from the previous day to $284 per tonne.

After Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal, which allowed the safe passage for Ukrainian grain exports, global wheat prices have exponentially shot up. On Wednesday, wheat prices on the European stock exchange soared by nearly nine per cent from the previous day to $284 per tonne. US wheat futures saw a jump of 8.5 per cent — the highest daily rise since the war broke out in February last year. Similarly, corn prices were up five to four per cent. The immediate effect of the suspension is that millions of tonnes of wheat that was bound for Africa and West Asia has been stranded. While the wheat remains stuck, the Russian side has started "deliberately targeting the grain deal infrastructure", according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Experts argue that the domino effect will be reflected in global inflation which had calmed down after a long time. “Russia’s decision to suspend participation in the Black Sea Grain Initiative will worsen food insecurity and harm millions of vulnerable people around the world,” said Adam Hodge, a spokesperson for the US National Security Council. Explained | Russia formally backs out of Black Sea grain deal. What happens now? What is the Black Sea grain deal? Ukraine is one of the world’s biggest exporters of food grains, such as wheat and corn, and has played a significant role in the UN’s food aid programmes. Therefore, when Russia invaded and blocked Ukrainian ports, prices of food grains soared across parts of the world. After months of jeopardy, a deal brokered by Turkey and the United Nations in July last year lifted a Russian naval blockade of Ukraine's Black Sea cities and set terms for millions of tonnes of wheat and other grain to start flowing from Ukraine's filled silos and ports. WATCH | Russia withdraws from Ukraine grain deal, can Zelensky bank on EU? × Since then, the deal's expiration date has been extended multiple times with Moscow waiting till the eleventh hour to grant an extension. However, it has done so reluctantly as the demands set by Russian President Vladimir Putin have not been met by the Western nations. Prior to calling off the deal on Monday, Moscow wanted its Russian Agricultural Bank (Rosselkhozbank) to be reconnected to the SWIFT international payments system after it was cut off due to sanctions by the European Union in June 2022. Meanwhile, the Western world has accused Moscow of using food commodities, after gas as a means to leverage its position in the ongoing conflict. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Wheat prices rise exponentially after Russia pulls out of Black Sea grain deal

<p>Talks to bring home thousands of Ukraine children that have been "abducted" by Russia have reportedly been underway since April.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, talking to Reuters, a source with knowledge of the discussions, confirmed a previous Finance Times report that Saudi Arabia and Turkey are trying to mediate the repatriation efforts and bring home Ukrainian children that have been taken to Russia, and placed in children's homes or even adopted by Russian families.</p>

<h2><strong>Talks going on for months</strong></h2>

<p>"The Turks and the Saudis especially have been showing an interest in bringing Ukrainian children back," the source told Reuters on the condition of anonymity.</p>

<p>As per the Reuters source, talks had been going on since April, but they could've started earlier.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/31-children-that-russia-stole-return-home-to-ukraine-580540">31 children that Russia 'stole' return home to Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>The individual reportedly failed to disclose the status of the talks. They, however, expressed doubt that a deal would be reached and said it would depend on Russian President Vladimir Putin accepting he's a "war criminal".</p>

<p>"For him to give (the children) back would mean that he agrees that he's a war criminal."</p>

<p>The source did not indicate to Reuters how the talks were going but expressed doubt that a deal would be reached because it would depend on Russian President Vladimir Putin.</p>

<p>"For him to give (the children) back would mean that he agrees that he's a war criminal," the source said.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, quoting four people, a Financial Times report said that the discussions have been underway for several months.</p>

<h2><strong>Abduction of Ukrainian children</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine has accused Russia of illegally carrying out the forced deportation of thousands of Ukrainian&nbsp;children. Russia has, however, denied the "abduction" allegation and says they were transported for their own safety, and to save the children from the horrors of the war.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-consider-ukraine-bound-ships-to-be-carrying-military-cargo-617577">Russia to consider Ukraine-bound ships to be carrying 'military cargo'</a></strong></p>

<p>In March, the International Criminal Court announced an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin over the war crime of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children.&nbsp; At the time, another warrant on similar charges was also issued for Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia's presidential commissioner for children's rights.</p>

<p>As per Kyiv's estimates, nearly 19,500 children have been taken to Russia or Russian-occupied Crimea since the beginning of the invasion. Of these only 385 children have been repatriated, show Ukrainian official figures.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Talks to bring home thousands of Ukraine children that have been "abducted" by Russia have reportedly been underway since April. On Wednesday, talking to Reuters, a source with knowledge of the discussions, confirmed a previous Finance Times report that Saudi Arabia and Turkey are trying to mediate the repatriation efforts and bring home Ukrainian children that have been taken to Russia, and placed in children's homes or even adopted by Russian families.

Talks to bring home thousands of Ukraine children that have been "abducted" by Russia have reportedly been underway since April. On Wednesday, talking to Reuters, a source with knowledge of the discussions, confirmed a previous Finance Times report that Saudi Arabia and Turkey are trying to mediate the repatriation efforts and bring home Ukrainian children that have been taken to Russia, and placed in children's homes or even adopted by Russian families. Talks going on for months "The Turks and the Saudis especially have been showing an interest in bringing Ukrainian children back," the source told Reuters on the condition of anonymity. As per the Reuters source, talks had been going on since April, but they could've started earlier. Also read | 31 children that Russia 'stole' return home to Ukraine The individual reportedly failed to disclose the status of the talks. They, however, expressed doubt that a deal would be reached and said it would depend on Russian President Vladimir Putin accepting he's a "war criminal". "For him to give (the children) back would mean that he agrees that he's a war criminal." The source did not indicate to Reuters how the talks were going but expressed doubt that a deal would be reached because it would depend on Russian President Vladimir Putin. "For him to give (the children) back would mean that he agrees that he's a war criminal," the source said. On Tuesday, quoting four people, a Financial Times report said that the discussions have been underway for several months. Abduction of Ukrainian children Ukraine has accused Russia of illegally carrying out the forced deportation of thousands of Ukrainian children. Russia has, however, denied the "abduction" allegation and says they were transported for their own safety, and to save the children from the horrors of the war. Also read | Russia to consider Ukraine-bound ships to be carrying 'military cargo' In March, the International Criminal Court announced an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin over the war crime of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children. At the time, another warrant on similar charges was also issued for Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia's presidential commissioner for children's rights. As per Kyiv's estimates, nearly 19,500 children have been taken to Russia or Russian-occupied Crimea since the beginning of the invasion. Of these only 385 children have been repatriated, show Ukrainian official figures. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Talks to bring back Ukrainian children 'abducted' by Russia on since April: Report

<p>Massive explosions were reportedly heard in Crimea as a suspected Ukrainian missile attack hit an ammunition depot and forced thousands of people to evacuate from the region. Authorities in the Russian-controlled region rushed in to help people reach safe zones. Traffic from a local highway was also diverted.</p>

<p>Videos circulating on social media showed a series of explosions sending mushroom clouds into the air.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">video of the continuing detonations at the Russian ammo dump in Crimea that Ukraine apparently hit early this morning. <a href="https://t.co/ZxvAoRiP77">pic.twitter.com/ZxvAoRiP77</a></p>
— Mike Eckel (@Mike_Eckel) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mike_Eckel/status/1681614141587374080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The explosions were so loud that they could be heard from at least 13 miles away from Stary Krym in Kirorvsky district, the explosion site.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian channel Crimean Wind reported casualties and injuries among civilians, but these claims were denied by Sergey Aksyonov, the Russian-appointed head of Crimea.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine says its operation successful</strong></h2>

<p>Kyiv said that it conducted a successful operation in “occupied Crimea” shortly after the explosions rocked the region.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Kylylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine's military intelligence said in a statement: "A successful operation was conducted on occupied Crimea."</p>

<p>"The enemy conceals the extent of the damage and the number of losses in manpower," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Here's why Ukraine wasn't given a NATO membership</strong></p>

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<p>The Sun reported that some 2,250 people were evacuated from four settlements near the Starokrymsky military training ground.</p>

<p>Buses were deployed to move the people out of the area as fears loomed of more such strikes by Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>UK or French weapons used?</strong></h2>

<p>The Crimean Wind channel speculated that the attack might have been carried out by a UK-supplied Storm Shadow or the French SCALP missile, the one Paris had recently agreed to provide to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alternatively, the Ukrainian Grom-2 missile might have also been used.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Might take days to put out the fire</strong></h2>

<p>Reports indicate explosions continued at the site even after six hours after the initial explosion. &nbsp;The head of Crimea’s parliament said it might take two days to fully put out the fire, Russian media reported.</p>

<p>The explosions came as southern regions of Ukraine, including Odessa, faced a relentless assault from Russia for a second consecutive night.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-suspends-participation-in-black-sea-grain-deal-616518"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow suspends participation in Black Sea grain deal</strong></a></p>

<p>Missile and drone attacks targeted various infrastructures, including the port and military airfield in Odessa, leading to destruction and injuries among civilians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attacks on alleged drone-making facilities in Odessa were seen as a response to a previous incident on the Crimean Bridge, resulting in further escalation.</p>

<p>Ukrainian Air Force said: "The Kh-22 and Onyx missile launches were aimed at infrastructure in the Odessa region.<br />
<br />
"It was a hellish night,” said Serhiy Bratchuk, spokesman for the regional military administration.</p>

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Massive explosions were reportedly heard in Crimea as a suspected Ukrainian missile attack hit an ammunition depot and forced thousands of people to evacuate from the region.

Massive explosions were reportedly heard in Crimea as a suspected Ukrainian missile attack hit an ammunition depot and forced thousands of people to evacuate from the region. Authorities in the Russian-controlled region rushed in to help people reach safe zones. Traffic from a local highway was also diverted. Videos circulating on social media showed a series of explosions sending mushroom clouds into the air. video of the continuing detonations at the Russian ammo dump in Crimea that Ukraine apparently hit early this morning. pic.twitter.com/ZxvAoRiP77 — Mike Eckel (@Mike_Eckel) July 19, 2023 × The explosions were so loud that they could be heard from at least 13 miles away from Stary Krym in Kirorvsky district, the explosion site. The Ukrainian channel Crimean Wind reported casualties and injuries among civilians, but these claims were denied by Sergey Aksyonov, the Russian-appointed head of Crimea. Ukraine says its operation successful Kyiv said that it conducted a successful operation in “occupied Crimea” shortly after the explosions rocked the region. Kylylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine's military intelligence said in a statement: "A successful operation was conducted on occupied Crimea." "The enemy conceals the extent of the damage and the number of losses in manpower," he added. Watch: Here's why Ukraine wasn't given a NATO membership × The Sun reported that some 2,250 people were evacuated from four settlements near the Starokrymsky military training ground. Buses were deployed to move the people out of the area as fears loomed of more such strikes by Ukraine. UK or French weapons used? The Crimean Wind channel speculated that the attack might have been carried out by a UK-supplied Storm Shadow or the French SCALP missile, the one Paris had recently agreed to provide to Ukraine. Alternatively, the Ukrainian Grom-2 missile might have also been used. Might take days to put out the fire Reports indicate explosions continued at the site even after six hours after the initial explosion. The head of Crimea’s parliament said it might take two days to fully put out the fire, Russian media reported. The explosions came as southern regions of Ukraine, including Odessa, faced a relentless assault from Russia for a second consecutive night. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow suspends participation in Black Sea grain deal Missile and drone attacks targeted various infrastructures, including the port and military airfield in Odessa, leading to destruction and injuries among civilians. The attacks on alleged drone-making facilities in Odessa were seen as a response to a previous incident on the Crimean Bridge, resulting in further escalation. Ukrainian Air Force said: "The Kh-22 and Onyx missile launches were aimed at infrastructure in the Odessa region. "It was a hellish night,” said Serhiy Bratchuk, spokesman for the regional military administration. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Watch: Suspected Ukrainian strike triggers explosions in Crimea ammo depot, thousands evacuated

<p>Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday that Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed to extend the Black Sea grain deal. The deal is going to expire next week.</p>

<p>Erdogan told reporters that he had spoken with Putin about the crucial deal.</p>

<p>Russian invasion of Ukraine had stopped Ukraine's grain exports. This had raised the spectre of a global food crisis. The Black Sea grain deal was signed after five months into the Ukraine war and has been extended several times but is again&nbsp;set to expire on Monday. Putin has repeatedly threatened that Russia would not renew it.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | US President Joe Biden: Putin has lost the war in Ukraine | Russia-Ukraine War</strong></p>

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<p>"We are preparing to welcome Putin in August and we agree on the extension of the Black Sea grain corridor," Erdogan told reporters.</p>

<p>United Nations General Secretary Antonio Guterres sent a letter to Putin this week about extension of the deal. The secretary general has supported removing hurdles to Russia exporting its fertilisers. Moscow has complained that obstacles to Russia's own exports have not been removed.</p>

<p>Erdogan said he hopes "that with this letter we will ensure the extension of the grain corridor with our joint efforts and those of Russia."</p>

<h2><strong>Not one&nbsp;condition met: Putin</strong></h2>

<p>President Putin complained on Thursday that "not one" of Moscow's conditions for the deal to function had been met.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I want to emphasise that nothing was done, nothing at all. It's all one-sided," Putin said in a televised interview, adding: "We will think about what to do, we have a few more days."</p>

<p>The deal between Russia and Ukraine was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey. The deal has till now, allowed Ukraine to ship more than 32 million tonnes of grain past Russian warships stationed in the Black Sea.</p>

<p>A large part of the grain has gone to feed people in developing countries in the African continent, West Asia and elsewhere. If the deal is not extended and the exports are blocked again, food prices can soar.</p>

<h2><strong>Advanced 2 km along front, says Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukraine said on Friday that its troops advanced nearly two kilometres along the southern front over the past week.</p>

<p>Mykola Urshalovych, a senior representative of the National Guard, told reporters that the force's 15th Karadag brigade and regular troops had moved towards the occupied southern city of Melitopol during the ongoing offensive.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-receives-delivery-of-cluster-munitions-pledges-its-constrained-use-615323">Ukraine receives delivery of cluster munitions, pledges its limited use</a></strong></p>

<p>He said that the soldiers, "supported by tanks have advanced 1700 metres to theh south and southwest"</p>

<p>He added that Ukrainian troops are moving ahead in spite of "dense" minefields and shelling.</p>

<p><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on issues surrounding&nbsp;Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. </strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday that Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed to extend the Black Sea grain deal. The deal is going to expire next week.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday that Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed to extend the Black Sea grain deal. The deal is going to expire next week. Erdogan told reporters that he had spoken with Putin about the crucial deal. Russian invasion of Ukraine had stopped Ukraine's grain exports. This had raised the spectre of a global food crisis. The Black Sea grain deal was signed after five months into the Ukraine war and has been extended several times but is again set to expire on Monday. Putin has repeatedly threatened that Russia would not renew it. Watch | US President Joe Biden: Putin has lost the war in Ukraine | Russia-Ukraine War × "We are preparing to welcome Putin in August and we agree on the extension of the Black Sea grain corridor," Erdogan told reporters. United Nations General Secretary Antonio Guterres sent a letter to Putin this week about extension of the deal. The secretary general has supported removing hurdles to Russia exporting its fertilisers. Moscow has complained that obstacles to Russia's own exports have not been removed. Erdogan said he hopes "that with this letter we will ensure the extension of the grain corridor with our joint efforts and those of Russia." Not one condition met: Putin President Putin complained on Thursday that "not one" of Moscow's conditions for the deal to function had been met. "I want to emphasise that nothing was done, nothing at all. It's all one-sided," Putin said in a televised interview, adding: "We will think about what to do, we have a few more days." The deal between Russia and Ukraine was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey. The deal has till now, allowed Ukraine to ship more than 32 million tonnes of grain past Russian warships stationed in the Black Sea. A large part of the grain has gone to feed people in developing countries in the African continent, West Asia and elsewhere. If the deal is not extended and the exports are blocked again, food prices can soar. Advanced 2 km along front, says Ukraine Meanwhile, Ukraine said on Friday that its troops advanced nearly two kilometres along the southern front over the past week. Mykola Urshalovych, a senior representative of the National Guard, told reporters that the force's 15th Karadag brigade and regular troops had moved towards the occupied southern city of Melitopol during the ongoing offensive. Also Read | Ukraine receives delivery of cluster munitions, pledges its limited use He said that the soldiers, "supported by tanks have advanced 1700 metres to theh south and southwest" He added that Ukrainian troops are moving ahead in spite of "dense" minefields and shelling. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on issues surrounding Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Putin has agreed to extend Black Sea grain deal, says Erdogan

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that Russia has been putting all its resources into a campaign which is aimed at halting Kyiv's troops from taking forth the counter-offensive. The statement came at a time when the top general reported about Kyiv's new progress on the southern front.<br />
<br />
However, Ukrainian military analysts have stated that things have been difficult for Ukrainian forces as they make efforts to advance southward.<br />
<br />
A counter-offensive was launched by Ukraine to re-capture swathes of land in southern and eastern Ukraine which were earlier captured by Russian forces after they invaded Kyiv in February 2022.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-it-advanced-nearly-2-km-on-southern-front-this-week-downed-16-drone-attacks-overnight-615689">Ukraine says it advanced nearly 2 km on southern front this week; downed 16 drones overnight</a></p>

<p>The counter-offensive has been aiming at capturing villages in the southeast as part of the drive towards areas near the eastern city of Bakhmut and the Sea of Azov, which were captured in May by Russian forces after months of battles.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, Russia has claimed that its forces have repelled attacks by Ukrainian forces in the eastern Donetsk region, which includes regions around Bakhmut.<br />
<br />
"We must all understand very clearly, as clearly as possible, that Russian forces in our southern and eastern lands are doing everything they can in order to stop our soldiers," said Zelensky in his nightly video address, after he held a meeting with top commanders on Friday. "And every thousand metres we advance, every success of every combat brigade deserves our gratitude,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Russian forces claim to repel 16 Ukrainian attacks</strong></h2>

<p>After the meeting, Commander of Ukrainian forces in the south General Oleksander Tarnavskyi said that his troops were "systematically moving the enemy out of their positions". Taking to Telegram, he wrote that in the past 24 hours, enemy losses were equivalent to at least 200.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia's Wagner mercenary group trains soldiers in Belarus</strong></p>

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<p>"In the south, the situation is very difficult in advancing towards Berdiansk," said military analyst Serhiy Hrabskyi, while referring to a port on the Sea of Azov in his talks with Ukrainian NV radio. Ukrainian forces have been aiming to cut off a land bridge which was established by Russian forces with the annexed Crimean peninsula.<br />
<br />
"They are moving on the village of Robotyne. The enemy is offering resistance to stop our advance southward,” he added. In its daily report, the defence ministry of Russia stated that 16 Ukrainian attacks were repelled by the forces in the eastern front which included near the long-contested town of Maryinka and in Klishchiivka, a strategic village on southern fringe of Bakhmut.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that Russia has been putting all its resources into a campaign which is aimed at halting Kyiv's troops from taking forth the counter-offensive.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that Russia has been putting all its resources into a campaign which is aimed at halting Kyiv's troops from taking forth the counter-offensive. The statement came at a time when the top general reported about Kyiv's new progress on the southern front. However, Ukrainian military analysts have stated that things have been difficult for Ukrainian forces as they make efforts to advance southward. A counter-offensive was launched by Ukraine to re-capture swathes of land in southern and eastern Ukraine which were earlier captured by Russian forces after they invaded Kyiv in February 2022. ALSO READ | Ukraine says it advanced nearly 2 km on southern front this week; downed 16 drones overnight The counter-offensive has been aiming at capturing villages in the southeast as part of the drive towards areas near the eastern city of Bakhmut and the Sea of Azov, which were captured in May by Russian forces after months of battles. Meanwhile, Russia has claimed that its forces have repelled attacks by Ukrainian forces in the eastern Donetsk region, which includes regions around Bakhmut. "We must all understand very clearly, as clearly as possible, that Russian forces in our southern and eastern lands are doing everything they can in order to stop our soldiers," said Zelensky in his nightly video address, after he held a meeting with top commanders on Friday. "And every thousand metres we advance, every success of every combat brigade deserves our gratitude,” he added. Russian forces claim to repel 16 Ukrainian attacks After the meeting, Commander of Ukrainian forces in the south General Oleksander Tarnavskyi said that his troops were "systematically moving the enemy out of their positions". Taking to Telegram, he wrote that in the past 24 hours, enemy losses were equivalent to at least 200. WATCH | Russia's Wagner mercenary group trains soldiers in Belarus "In the south, the situation is very difficult in advancing towards Berdiansk," said military analyst Serhiy Hrabskyi, while referring to a port on the Sea of Azov in his talks with Ukrainian NV radio. Ukrainian forces have been aiming to cut off a land bridge which was established by Russian forces with the annexed Crimean peninsula. "They are moving on the village of Robotyne. The enemy is offering resistance to stop our advance southward,” he added. In its daily report, the defence ministry of Russia stated that 16 Ukrainian attacks were repelled by the forces in the eastern front which included near the long-contested town of Maryinka and in Klishchiivka, a strategic village on southern fringe of Bakhmut. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia throwing all its resources to halt Ukraine's troops on counteroffensive, says Zelensky

<p>Officials in Kyiv, on Friday (July 14), claimed to have advanced nearly two kilometres along the southern front over the past week amid the Ukrainian counteroffensive to recapture&nbsp;its territory occupied by Russia, reported AFP. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian air force said that they downed 16 Iranian-made drones launched by Russia overnight.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine acknowledges troops not advancing fast enough</strong></h2>

<p>The Ukrainian&nbsp;head of the presidency, Andriy Yermak, on Friday, conceded that the troops are not making a&nbsp;speedy headway in their&nbsp;counteroffensive to recapture&nbsp;territory in the east and south. "Today it's advancing not so quickly," said&nbsp;Yermak, adding that the battles have been difficult.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If we are going to see that something is going wrong, we'll say so. No one is going to embellish," the Kyiv official&nbsp;told reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian gains on the southern front</strong></h2>

<p>During a press conference, Mykola Urshalovych, a senior representative of the National Guard said that the 15th Karadag brigade and regular troops “supported by tanks, have advanced 1,700 metres to the south and southeast,” of the occupied southern city of Melitopol amid the ongoing offensive, over the past seven days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian troops have moved forward despite “dense” minefields and shelling, he added. According to Urshalovych, National Guard troops continue to maintain their positions in the port city of Berdyansk in the Zaporizhzhia region, “under constant enemy fire”.</p>

<p>The National Guard senior official also said that their troops are preparing to expand an offensive in the Avdiivka sector in eastern Ukraine. This comes days after the Ukrainian military said, on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-re-capture-of-14-square-kilometre-territory-within-a-week-613836">July 10</a>, it had recaptured 14 square kilometres from Russian forces in the south and east of the country over the last week.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine downs 16 drones in&nbsp;overnight attacks</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement online, the Ukrainian air force, on Friday, said that it downed 16 out of the 17 Iranian-made drones launched by Russian forces overnight, in a reported consecutive night of aerial attacks by Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The Russians attacked Ukraine with 17 Iranian-made Shahed-136/131 attack drones from the south east direction. As a result of military operations...16 Shaheds were destroyed,” said the Ukrainian air force.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine jails man for Russian plot to blow up arms transport routes</strong></h2>

<p>The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) said that a Ukrainian court, on Friday, jailed a man for 10 years after finding him guilty of plotting with Russia to blow up transport infrastructure to disrupt foreign arms supplies. The man, who was not identified, is said to have been fighting for the Russia-backed militant groups in eastern Ukraine even before Moscow began its “special military operation,” over a year ago.</p>

<p>According to Ukraine’s domestic security agency, he was tasked with blowing up two infrastructure objects by Russian military intelligence but had been detained back in February before he was able to carry out the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the exact location of where the supposed attack was not mentioned, the targets were said to have been in the Rivne region in western Ukraine which is home to several important road and railway links with NATO member and Kyiv supporter, Poland.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The routes in question are kept a secret in Ukraine but the equipment is often seen passing through the eastern part of the country. This comes as Western military support is seen as vital for Ukraine to fight Russian forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em><br />
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Officials in Kyiv, on Friday (July 14), claimed to have advanced nearly two kilometres along the southern front over the past week amid the Ukrainian counteroffensive to recapture its territory occupied by Russia, reported AFP.

Officials in Kyiv, on Friday (July 14), claimed to have advanced nearly two kilometres along the southern front over the past week amid the Ukrainian counteroffensive to recapture its territory occupied by Russia, reported AFP. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian air force said that they downed 16 Iranian-made drones launched by Russia overnight. Ukraine acknowledges troops not advancing fast enough The Ukrainian head of the presidency, Andriy Yermak, on Friday, conceded that the troops are not making a speedy headway in their counteroffensive to recapture territory in the east and south. "Today it's advancing not so quickly," said Yermak, adding that the battles have been difficult. "If we are going to see that something is going wrong, we'll say so. No one is going to embellish," the Kyiv official told reporters. Ukrainian gains on the southern front During a press conference, Mykola Urshalovych, a senior representative of the National Guard said that the 15th Karadag brigade and regular troops “supported by tanks, have advanced 1,700 metres to the south and southeast,” of the occupied southern city of Melitopol amid the ongoing offensive, over the past seven days. Ukrainian troops have moved forward despite “dense” minefields and shelling, he added. According to Urshalovych, National Guard troops continue to maintain their positions in the port city of Berdyansk in the Zaporizhzhia region, “under constant enemy fire”. The National Guard senior official also said that their troops are preparing to expand an offensive in the Avdiivka sector in eastern Ukraine. This comes days after the Ukrainian military said, on July 10, it had recaptured 14 square kilometres from Russian forces in the south and east of the country over the last week. Ukraine downs 16 drones in overnight attacks In a statement online, the Ukrainian air force, on Friday, said that it downed 16 out of the 17 Iranian-made drones launched by Russian forces overnight, in a reported consecutive night of aerial attacks by Moscow. “The Russians attacked Ukraine with 17 Iranian-made Shahed-136/131 attack drones from the south east direction. As a result of military operations...16 Shaheds were destroyed,” said the Ukrainian air force. Ukraine jails man for Russian plot to blow up arms transport routes The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) said that a Ukrainian court, on Friday, jailed a man for 10 years after finding him guilty of plotting with Russia to blow up transport infrastructure to disrupt foreign arms supplies. The man, who was not identified, is said to have been fighting for the Russia-backed militant groups in eastern Ukraine even before Moscow began its “special military operation,” over a year ago. According to Ukraine’s domestic security agency, he was tasked with blowing up two infrastructure objects by Russian military intelligence but had been detained back in February before he was able to carry out the attack. While the exact location of where the supposed attack was not mentioned, the targets were said to have been in the Rivne region in western Ukraine which is home to several important road and railway links with NATO member and Kyiv supporter, Poland. The routes in question are kept a secret in Ukraine but the equipment is often seen passing through the eastern part of the country. This comes as Western military support is seen as vital for Ukraine to fight Russian forces. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine says it advanced nearly 2 km on southern front this week; downed 16 drones overnight

<p>In a recent phone call, Sergei Naryshkin, the head of Russia's foreign intelligence service (SVR), and Bill Burns, the head of the CIA, discussed the short-lived mutiny led by Russian mercenary boss Yevgeny Prigozhin and deliberated on the situation in Ukraine.</p>

<p>The call took place late last month and lasted approximately an hour. While the events of the mutiny were addressed, the primary focus of the conversation revolved around Ukraine, reported the Guardian.</p>

<h2><strong>Confirmation and US position</strong></h2>

<p>The New York Times and Wall Street Journal reported that William Burns assured the Kremlin during the call that the United States had no involvement in the Wagner revolt.</p>

<p>The CIA, however, declined to comment on Naryshkin's remarks or provide further details about the call.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/f-16-jets-in-ukraine-will-be-seen-as-nuclear-threat-russia-615014">F-16 jets in Ukraine will be seen as 'nuclear' threat: Russia</a></p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine's stance and US support</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine, which experienced a Russian invasion in February 2022, asserts that other nations should not negotiate its future on its behalf.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russian President Putin may visit China to attend Belt &amp; Road Summit in October</strong></p>

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<p>The United States has consistently backed this principle, advocating for "nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine." This stance emphasises the importance of Ukraine's direct involvement in discussions about its own fate.</p>

<h2><strong>Communication amidst strained relations</strong></h2>

<p>Despite strained relations between Moscow and Washington, Burns and Naryshkin have maintained a line of communication since the beginning of the Ukraine war.</p>

<p>They previously met face-to-face in Ankara last November. US officials clarified that Burns was not conducting negotiations or discussing the settlement of the war in Ukraine during that meeting, following a leak from the Kremlin after Ukraine recaptured Kherson.</p>

<h2><strong>Possibility of future negotiations</strong></h2>

<p>During the recent call, Naryshkin expressed his belief that negotiations on the war in Ukraine would eventually become possible.</p>

<p>While it is unclear whether this specific topic was part of his conversation with Burns, Naryshkin stated that any conflict, including armed conflict, ultimately ends through negotiations. However, he also acknowledged that the conditions for such negotiations still need time to develop.</p>

<p>Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak dismissed Naryshkin's influence on the war's outcome, asserting that individuals like him have no leverage over how the conflict will end. Podolyak argued that Russia is losing the war, and engaging in negotiations with people who perceive events inadequately is pointless.</p>

<p>Ukraine, which launched a counteroffensive last month, has refused to enter talks at this stage to avoid freezing the situation on the battlefield, where Russia has already seized more than a sixth of Ukrainian territory.&nbsp;</p>

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In a recent phone call, Sergei Naryshkin, the head of Russia's foreign intelligence service (SVR), and Bill Burns, the head of the CIA, discussed the short-lived mutiny led by Russian mercenary boss Yevgeny Prigozhin and deliberated on the situation in Ukraine.

In a recent phone call, Sergei Naryshkin, the head of Russia's foreign intelligence service (SVR), and Bill Burns, the head of the CIA, discussed the short-lived mutiny led by Russian mercenary boss Yevgeny Prigozhin and deliberated on the situation in Ukraine. The call took place late last month and lasted approximately an hour. While the events of the mutiny were addressed, the primary focus of the conversation revolved around Ukraine, reported the Guardian. Confirmation and US position The New York Times and Wall Street Journal reported that William Burns assured the Kremlin during the call that the United States had no involvement in the Wagner revolt. The CIA, however, declined to comment on Naryshkin's remarks or provide further details about the call. Also read | F-16 jets in Ukraine will be seen as 'nuclear' threat: Russia Ukraine's stance and US support Ukraine, which experienced a Russian invasion in February 2022, asserts that other nations should not negotiate its future on its behalf. Watch | Russian President Putin may visit China to attend Belt & Road Summit in October The United States has consistently backed this principle, advocating for "nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine." This stance emphasises the importance of Ukraine's direct involvement in discussions about its own fate. Communication amidst strained relations Despite strained relations between Moscow and Washington, Burns and Naryshkin have maintained a line of communication since the beginning of the Ukraine war. They previously met face-to-face in Ankara last November. US officials clarified that Burns was not conducting negotiations or discussing the settlement of the war in Ukraine during that meeting, following a leak from the Kremlin after Ukraine recaptured Kherson. Possibility of future negotiations During the recent call, Naryshkin expressed his belief that negotiations on the war in Ukraine would eventually become possible. While it is unclear whether this specific topic was part of his conversation with Burns, Naryshkin stated that any conflict, including armed conflict, ultimately ends through negotiations. However, he also acknowledged that the conditions for such negotiations still need time to develop. Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak dismissed Naryshkin's influence on the war's outcome, asserting that individuals like him have no leverage over how the conflict will end. Podolyak argued that Russia is losing the war, and engaging in negotiations with people who perceive events inadequately is pointless. Ukraine, which launched a counteroffensive last month, has refused to enter talks at this stage to avoid freezing the situation on the battlefield, where Russia has already seized more than a sixth of Ukrainian territory. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Top Russian spy confirms phone call to CIA director following Wagner revolt

<p>Deputy commander of Russia's military operations in Ukraine, General Sergei Surovikin, who has not been seen in public since the mutiny by mercenary group Wagner, is currently 'resting', said a lawmaker from the ruling party on Wednesday.</p>

<p>As per Reuters reports, Andrei Kartapolov, head of the State Duma Defence Committee, is heard saying in a video posted on social media: "Surovikin is currently resting. (He is) not available for now."</p>

<p>Surovikin, who is also called 'General Armageddon' by the Russian press for his assertive strategies in the Syria conflict, was last seen publicly when he issued an appeal via a video urging the mercenary group to halt the mutiny while it was underway.</p>

<p>As per reports, Surovikin had good relations with Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, who appreciated the general while regularly criticising Moscow's military leadership, especially Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov, over their handling of the war in Ukraine.</p>

<p>As per a New York Times report based on a U.S. intelligence briefing, Surovikin had prior knowledge of the rebellion and that Russian authorities were probing if he was associated with it or not.</p>

<p>According to the news agency Reuters, Russian and international media, last month, reported that Surovikin had been arrested, but there has been no official confirmation of that, and the Kremlin has declined to answer questions about him.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-to-offer-security-commitments-to-ukraine-after-slow-progress-on-its-nato-induction-614673">West to offer long-term security commitments to Ukraine after slow progress on its NATO induction</a></p>

<h2><strong>Putin met Wagner chief five days after failed coup attempt: Kremlin</strong></h2>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin met the Wagner mercenary group’s chief Yevgeny Prigozhin five days after the failed coup attempt, the Kremlin said on Monday.</p>

<p>Briefing the reporters, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the meeting took place on June 29, in which 35 people were invited, including unit commanders. He further said that the meeting lasted three hours.</p>

<p>Putin “gave his assessment of the events of June 24,” Peskov said, referring to the date of the Wagner Group’s failed uprising. He added that Putin also "listened to accounts given by (Wagner) commanders".</p>

<p>The Wagner commanders told Putin they were his soldiers and would continue to fight for him.</p>

<p>The development comes following speculations that Prigozhin wasn't exiled to Belarus at all as part of the peace deal brokered by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko.</p>

<p>Last week, Lukashenko told reporters that it was unclear if the Wagner fighters would come to Belarus after he previously offered them a desert military base.</p>

<p>“As for Prigozhin, he's in St Petersburg. He is not on the territory of Belarus," he said.</p>

<p>Responding to Lukashenko's remarks, the Kremlin said it was "not following" Prigozhin's movements.</p>

<p>"No, we do not follow his movements, we have neither the ability nor the desire to do so," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Deputy commander of Russia's military operations in Ukraine, General Sergei Surovikin, who has not been seen in public since the mutiny by mercenary group Wagner, is currently 'resting', said a lawmaker from the ruling party on Wednesday.

Deputy commander of Russia's military operations in Ukraine, General Sergei Surovikin, who has not been seen in public since the mutiny by mercenary group Wagner, is currently 'resting', said a lawmaker from the ruling party on Wednesday. As per Reuters reports, Andrei Kartapolov, head of the State Duma Defence Committee, is heard saying in a video posted on social media: "Surovikin is currently resting. (He is) not available for now." Surovikin, who is also called 'General Armageddon' by the Russian press for his assertive strategies in the Syria conflict, was last seen publicly when he issued an appeal via a video urging the mercenary group to halt the mutiny while it was underway. As per reports, Surovikin had good relations with Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, who appreciated the general while regularly criticising Moscow's military leadership, especially Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov, over their handling of the war in Ukraine. As per a New York Times report based on a U.S. intelligence briefing, Surovikin had prior knowledge of the rebellion and that Russian authorities were probing if he was associated with it or not. According to the news agency Reuters, Russian and international media, last month, reported that Surovikin had been arrested, but there has been no official confirmation of that, and the Kremlin has declined to answer questions about him. Also read: West to offer long-term security commitments to Ukraine after slow progress on its NATO induction Putin met Wagner chief five days after failed coup attempt: Kremlin Russian President Vladimir Putin met the Wagner mercenary group’s chief Yevgeny Prigozhin five days after the failed coup attempt, the Kremlin said on Monday. Briefing the reporters, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the meeting took place on June 29, in which 35 people were invited, including unit commanders. He further said that the meeting lasted three hours. Putin “gave his assessment of the events of June 24,” Peskov said, referring to the date of the Wagner Group’s failed uprising. He added that Putin also "listened to accounts given by (Wagner) commanders". The Wagner commanders told Putin they were his soldiers and would continue to fight for him. The development comes following speculations that Prigozhin wasn't exiled to Belarus at all as part of the peace deal brokered by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. Last week, Lukashenko told reporters that it was unclear if the Wagner fighters would come to Belarus after he previously offered them a desert military base. “As for Prigozhin, he's in St Petersburg. He is not on the territory of Belarus," he said. Responding to Lukashenko's remarks, the Kremlin said it was "not following" Prigozhin's movements. "No, we do not follow his movements, we have neither the ability nor the desire to do so," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Top Russian general not seen in public since Wagner mutiny, lawmaker says 'he's resting'

<p>Western countries are going to offer Ukraine a long-term security commitment package on Wednesday (July 12) after NATO's rebuff to Ukraine in giving a clear timeline for joining the alliance.&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky blasted the alliance just a day ago for not being swift enough on Ukraine's induction. He will now hold talks with NATO's 31 leaders assembled for the summit in Lithuanian capital Vilnius.</p>

<p>It is expected that the G7 countries will issue a declaration to assure Zelensky on how they will help Ukraine against Russia and deter any new aggression in future.</p>

<p>Zelensky, as he arrived for the summit, had said that he wanted to get on the "same page" with NATO over what were the conditions for joining the alliance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will speak today and fight for these security guarantees for Ukraine on the way to NATO," he said before striding up the red carpet.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Ukraine's future is in alliance but no roadmap yet: NATO</strong></p>

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<p>The announcement from G7 countries is likely to provide a framework which will guide individual nations to strike bilateral deals with Ukraine. These deals will detail the weapons that will be provided to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A message to Putin?</strong></h2>

<p>The West it appears wants to send a message to Russian President Vladimir Putin that he can't keep the war going on with the hope that Western support to Ukraine will eventually falter.</p>

<p>"This multilateral declaration will send a significant signal to Russia that time is not on its side," White House advisor for European affairs Amanda Sloat said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Previously, US President Joe Biden suggested a model for Ukraine similar to one under which Washington has committed to giving Israel $3.8 billion in military aid per year over a decade.</p>

<p>The West has already sent weapons worth tens of billions of dollars to Ukraine to help it fight against Russia.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, Germany said that it was sending long-range missiles and a coalition of 11 nations announced they will start training Ukrainian pilots on F-16 jets from next month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine has definitely got Western backing but it has, according to Zelensky, fallen short of his aspirations of putting Kyiv under NATO's collective defensive shield.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lost-child-in-a-fair-internet-reacts-to-zelenskys-photo-at-nato-summit-614628">'Lost child in a fair': Internet reacts to Zelensky's photo at NATO Summit</a></strong></p>

<p>NATO leaders vowed after the first day of their summit that "Ukraine's future is in NATO" and shortened the eventual process Kyiv would have to go through to enter the alliance. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will be in a position to extend an invitation to Ukraine to join the alliance when allies agree and conditions are met," a statement said.</p>

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Western countries are going to offer Ukraine a long-term security commitment package on Wednesday (July 12) after NATO's rebuff to Ukraine in giving a clear timeline for joining the alliance.

Western countries are going to offer Ukraine a long-term security commitment package on Wednesday (July 12) after NATO's rebuff to Ukraine in giving a clear timeline for joining the alliance. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky blasted the alliance just a day ago for not being swift enough on Ukraine's induction. He will now hold talks with NATO's 31 leaders assembled for the summit in Lithuanian capital Vilnius. It is expected that the G7 countries will issue a declaration to assure Zelensky on how they will help Ukraine against Russia and deter any new aggression in future. Zelensky, as he arrived for the summit, had said that he wanted to get on the "same page" with NATO over what were the conditions for joining the alliance. "We will speak today and fight for these security guarantees for Ukraine on the way to NATO," he said before striding up the red carpet. Watch | Ukraine's future is in alliance but no roadmap yet: NATO × The announcement from G7 countries is likely to provide a framework which will guide individual nations to strike bilateral deals with Ukraine. These deals will detail the weapons that will be provided to Ukraine. A message to Putin? The West it appears wants to send a message to Russian President Vladimir Putin that he can't keep the war going on with the hope that Western support to Ukraine will eventually falter. "This multilateral declaration will send a significant signal to Russia that time is not on its side," White House advisor for European affairs Amanda Sloat said. Previously, US President Joe Biden suggested a model for Ukraine similar to one under which Washington has committed to giving Israel $3.8 billion in military aid per year over a decade. The West has already sent weapons worth tens of billions of dollars to Ukraine to help it fight against Russia. On Tuesday, Germany said that it was sending long-range missiles and a coalition of 11 nations announced they will start training Ukrainian pilots on F-16 jets from next month. Ukraine has definitely got Western backing but it has, according to Zelensky, fallen short of his aspirations of putting Kyiv under NATO's collective defensive shield. Also Read | 'Lost child in a fair': Internet reacts to Zelensky's photo at NATO Summit NATO leaders vowed after the first day of their summit that "Ukraine's future is in NATO" and shortened the eventual process Kyiv would have to go through to enter the alliance. "We will be in a position to extend an invitation to Ukraine to join the alliance when allies agree and conditions are met," a statement said. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

West to offer long-term security commitments to Ukraine after slow progress on its NATO induction

<p>United States President Joe Biden defended his decision to provide cluster bombs to Ukraine, calling it a "very difficult decision". The bomb has a record of taking the lives of civilians.<br />
<br />
The president stated that it had taken him "a while to be convinced to do it", however, he decided because "the Ukrainians are running out of ammunition".<br />
<br />
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed the move, calling the aid package a “timely, broad and much-needed defence”, in a tweet and further thanked Biden for “decisive steps that bring Ukraine closer to victory over the enemy”.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-are-cluster-bombs-which-us-is-set-to-provide-to-ukraine-why-it-is-facing-opposition-613067">Explained | What are cluster bombs which US is set to provide to Ukraine? Why is it facing opposition?</a></p>

<p>“The expansion of Ukraine’s defence capabilities will provide new tools for the de-occupation of our land and bringing peace closer,” Zelensky wrote.</p>

<h2><strong>US decision to provide Kyiv cluster bombs criticised</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, a Moscow envoy slammed the decision taken by Washington, calling it "cynicism". "The cruelty and cynicism with which Washington has approached the issue of transferring lethal weapons to Kyiv is striking," said Anatoly Antonov, as quoted by Tass news agency.<br />
<br />
"Now, by the fault of the US, there will be a risk for many years that innocent civilians will be blown up by submunitions that have failed,” he added. More than 120 nations have banned cluster bombs.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, UN human rights office spokesperson Marta Hurtado said, "The use of such munitions should stop immediately and not be used in any place."<br />
<br />
Vice-chair of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines and Cluster Munition Coalition Governance Board Paul Hannon said, “The Biden administration’s decision to transfer cluster munitions will contribute to the terrible casualties being suffered by Ukrainian civilians both immediately and for years to come. Russia and Ukraine’s use of cluster munitions is adding to Ukraine’s already massive contamination from explosive remnants and landmines.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US Cluster Bombs for Ukraine: Months of internal debate concludes</strong></p>

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<p>Biden's decision was also opposed by his own Democratic party. Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, criticising the decision, said, “We have to be clear: if the US is going to be a leader on international human rights, we must not participate in human rights abuses.”<br />
<br />
“We can support the people of Ukraine in their freedom struggle, while also opposing violations of international law. In fact, the innocent victims of the cluster munitions will almost exclusively be Ukrainian civilians. Instead of dealing cluster munitions, we should be doing everything in our power to end their use,” she added.<br />
<br />
National security adviser Jake Sullivan, White House briefing, had stated that officials "recognise the cluster munitions create a risk of civilian harm" from unexploded bombs. "This is why we've deferred the decision for as long as we could,” he had said.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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United States President Joe Biden defended his decision to provide cluster bombs to Ukraine, calling it a "very difficult decision". The bomb has a record of taking the lives of civilians.

United States President Joe Biden defended his decision to provide cluster bombs to Ukraine, calling it a "very difficult decision". The bomb has a record of taking the lives of civilians. The president stated that it had taken him "a while to be convinced to do it", however, he decided because "the Ukrainians are running out of ammunition". Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed the move, calling the aid package a “timely, broad and much-needed defence”, in a tweet and further thanked Biden for “decisive steps that bring Ukraine closer to victory over the enemy”. ALSO READ | Explained | What are cluster bombs which US is set to provide to Ukraine? Why is it facing opposition? “The expansion of Ukraine’s defence capabilities will provide new tools for the de-occupation of our land and bringing peace closer,” Zelensky wrote. US decision to provide Kyiv cluster bombs criticised Meanwhile, a Moscow envoy slammed the decision taken by Washington, calling it "cynicism". "The cruelty and cynicism with which Washington has approached the issue of transferring lethal weapons to Kyiv is striking," said Anatoly Antonov, as quoted by Tass news agency. "Now, by the fault of the US, there will be a risk for many years that innocent civilians will be blown up by submunitions that have failed,” he added. More than 120 nations have banned cluster bombs. Meanwhile, UN human rights office spokesperson Marta Hurtado said, "The use of such munitions should stop immediately and not be used in any place." Vice-chair of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines and Cluster Munition Coalition Governance Board Paul Hannon said, “The Biden administration’s decision to transfer cluster munitions will contribute to the terrible casualties being suffered by Ukrainian civilians both immediately and for years to come. Russia and Ukraine’s use of cluster munitions is adding to Ukraine’s already massive contamination from explosive remnants and landmines.” WATCH | US Cluster Bombs for Ukraine: Months of internal debate concludes Biden's decision was also opposed by his own Democratic party. Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, criticising the decision, said, “We have to be clear: if the US is going to be a leader on international human rights, we must not participate in human rights abuses.” “We can support the people of Ukraine in their freedom struggle, while also opposing violations of international law. In fact, the innocent victims of the cluster munitions will almost exclusively be Ukrainian civilians. Instead of dealing cluster munitions, we should be doing everything in our power to end their use,” she added. National security adviser Jake Sullivan, White House briefing, had stated that officials "recognise the cluster munitions create a risk of civilian harm" from unexploded bombs. "This is why we've deferred the decision for as long as we could,” he had said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Biden defends decision to provide cluster bombs to Ukraine, says 'they are running out of ammunition'

<p lang="en-US">Ukraine has been cautiously counting the gains it has made in the counter-offensive launched this month for reclaiming the territories occupied by Russia and on Friday, a US general and President Volodymyr Zelensky agreed that the progress is measured in blood.<br />
<br />
Speaking to an audience at the National Press Club in Washington, US Army General Mark Milley said that the counteroffensive was "advancing steadily, deliberately working its way through very difficult minefields ... 500 metres a day, 1,000 metres a day, 2,000 metres a day, that kind of thing."<br />
<br />
He added that he is not surprised to see the progress slower than what was predicted by a few people and computers. "War on paper and real war are different. In real war, real people die. Real people are on those front lines and real people are in those vehicles. Real bodies are being shredded by high explosives,” he said.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarusian-president-lukashenko-asks-wagner-army-to-train-his-military-610780">Belarusian President Lukashenko asks Wagner army to train his military</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">"What I had said was this is going to take six, eight, 10 weeks, it's going to be very difficult. It's going to be very long, and it's going to be very, very bloody. And no one should have any illusions about any of that,” the army general added.<br />
<br />
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, last week, said that the counteroffensive has been "slower than desired". Ukraine claims to have recaptured a bunch of villages in operations that freed 130 square km (50 square miles) in the south, however, this remains a small percentage of the total territory which is being held by Russia.<br />
<br />
Zelensky on Friday stated that his forces advanced "in all directions of our active operations," while Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar said the military assessed progress as "going according to plan," and that Ukraine's counteroffensive needs to be evaluated by "a lot of different military tasks."</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Slow speed aimed at saving lives</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">Zelensky has been quoted as saying that Kyiv wished to show results before a July 11 NATO gathering in Lithuania, at which the country is hoping to get an invitation to start the process of becoming part of the US-led military alliance.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia: 50 soldiers, 2 Generals, 20 foreign mercenaries killed</strong></p>

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<p lang="en-US">"Before the summit, we have to show results," Zelensky was quoted as saying by Spanish national broadcaster RTVE. "But every kilometre costs lives,” he added.<br />
<br />
Acknowledging that the counteroffensive plans have slowed in recent months, he said, "We stopped because we could not advance. Advancing meant losing people and we had no artillery."<br />
<br />
He was further quoted as saying that Kyiv was "very cautious in this regard" and that he would rather choose to let it take more time if it meant losing fewer lives. "Between time and human beings, people are the most important," he added.</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukraine has been cautiously counting the gains it has made in the counter-offensive launched this month for reclaiming the territories occupied by Russia and on Friday, a US general and President Volodymyr Zelensky agreed that the progress is measured in blood.

Ukraine has been cautiously counting the gains it has made in the counter-offensive launched this month for reclaiming the territories occupied by Russia and on Friday, a US general and President Volodymyr Zelensky agreed that the progress is measured in blood. Speaking to an audience at the National Press Club in Washington, US Army General Mark Milley said that the counteroffensive was "advancing steadily, deliberately working its way through very difficult minefields ... 500 metres a day, 1,000 metres a day, 2,000 metres a day, that kind of thing." He added that he is not surprised to see the progress slower than what was predicted by a few people and computers. "War on paper and real war are different. In real war, real people die. Real people are on those front lines and real people are in those vehicles. Real bodies are being shredded by high explosives,” he said. ALSO READ | Belarusian President Lukashenko asks Wagner army to train his military "What I had said was this is going to take six, eight, 10 weeks, it's going to be very difficult. It's going to be very long, and it's going to be very, very bloody. And no one should have any illusions about any of that,” the army general added. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, last week, said that the counteroffensive has been "slower than desired". Ukraine claims to have recaptured a bunch of villages in operations that freed 130 square km (50 square miles) in the south, however, this remains a small percentage of the total territory which is being held by Russia. Zelensky on Friday stated that his forces advanced "in all directions of our active operations," while Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar said the military assessed progress as "going according to plan," and that Ukraine's counteroffensive needs to be evaluated by "a lot of different military tasks." Slow speed aimed at saving lives Zelensky has been quoted as saying that Kyiv wished to show results before a July 11 NATO gathering in Lithuania, at which the country is hoping to get an invitation to start the process of becoming part of the US-led military alliance. WATCH | Russia: 50 soldiers, 2 Generals, 20 foreign mercenaries killed "Before the summit, we have to show results," Zelensky was quoted as saying by Spanish national broadcaster RTVE. "But every kilometre costs lives,” he added. Acknowledging that the counteroffensive plans have slowed in recent months, he said, "We stopped because we could not advance. Advancing meant losing people and we had no artillery." He was further quoted as saying that Kyiv was "very cautious in this regard" and that he would rather choose to let it take more time if it meant losing fewer lives. "Between time and human beings, people are the most important," he added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Progress of Kyiv's counter-offensive slowed to prevent bloodshed, loss of lives, say Ukraine, US

<p lang="en-US">Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez stated that he reached Kyiv early on Saturday to hold talks with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky as the country kicked off its European Union's presidency.<br />
<br />
"In Kyiv already. I wanted the first act of the Spanish presidency of the Council of the European Union to be in Ukraine" with its president, wrote Sanchez on his official Twitter account, stating he would convey "all of Europe's solidarity".<br />
<br />
"We will keep supporting the Ukrainian people until peace returns to Europe," added the prime minister, who had announced his visit during an EU summit on Thursday, claiming that its aim was to show the "unfaltering support" of the EU for Kyiv as it continues to battle the Russian invasion.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-orders-tighter-security-at-ukraine-belarus-border-after-arrival-of-wagner-fighters-610721">Volodymyr Zelensky orders tighter security at Ukraine-Belarus border after arrival of Wagner fighters</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">A year ago, Ukraine was given the EU candidacy status and this year, it hopes to start formal negotiations on what it is required to do to firm up its membership bid.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Kyiv plans to win over LatAm through Spain's presidency</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">Ukraine has been hoping to use the EU presidency of Spain to try to "gain influence" in Latin America, where many countries have opposed the efforts of Kyiv to retake territories which have been occupied by Russia, said President Volodymyr Zelensky, while speaking to Spanish media.<br />
<br />
Speaking on Friday, Zelensky said that the invitation to participate in an EU-Latin American summit in Brussels on July 17-18 was extended to him by Sanchez, however, many unspecified countries had blocked it.<br />
<br />
"We have a peace formula, and Pedro has supported us a lot. He has a constant dialogue with Latin America and they listen to him, it's a fact. But I'll say frankly that some Latin American countries are blocking the decision and this invitation," he stated, in remarks from Kyiv which aired by state broadcaster TVE.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war environmental damage: Greta Thunberg discusses with Zelensky</strong></p>

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<p lang="en-US"><br />
"I want them not only to join the peace formula but to stand against war," he stated. Earlier this year, Western countries were irritated by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva when he stated that the West had been "encouraging" war by arming Ukraine.<br />
<br />
Zelensky, in the interview, also appealed for a concrete plan for Ukraine to join NATO. Kyiv has been working with allies to get major international support for a peace blueprint, without any territorial compromises.<br />
<br />
Senior officials from the EU, Ukraine, G7 countries, and nations like Brazil, India, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and Turkey held a meeting on Saturday in Denmark to discuss the concept and stated that some progress was made by them, however, any summit for endorsing a document was at least months away.&nbsp;</p>

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Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez stated that he reached Kyiv early on Saturday to hold talks with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky as the country kicked off its European Union's presidency.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez stated that he reached Kyiv early on Saturday to hold talks with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky as the country kicked off its European Union's presidency. "In Kyiv already. I wanted the first act of the Spanish presidency of the Council of the European Union to be in Ukraine" with its president, wrote Sanchez on his official Twitter account, stating he would convey "all of Europe's solidarity". "We will keep supporting the Ukrainian people until peace returns to Europe," added the prime minister, who had announced his visit during an EU summit on Thursday, claiming that its aim was to show the "unfaltering support" of the EU for Kyiv as it continues to battle the Russian invasion. ALSO READ | Volodymyr Zelensky orders tighter security at Ukraine-Belarus border after arrival of Wagner fighters A year ago, Ukraine was given the EU candidacy status and this year, it hopes to start formal negotiations on what it is required to do to firm up its membership bid. Kyiv plans to win over LatAm through Spain's presidency Ukraine has been hoping to use the EU presidency of Spain to try to "gain influence" in Latin America, where many countries have opposed the efforts of Kyiv to retake territories which have been occupied by Russia, said President Volodymyr Zelensky, while speaking to Spanish media. Speaking on Friday, Zelensky said that the invitation to participate in an EU-Latin American summit in Brussels on July 17-18 was extended to him by Sanchez, however, many unspecified countries had blocked it. "We have a peace formula, and Pedro has supported us a lot. He has a constant dialogue with Latin America and they listen to him, it's a fact. But I'll say frankly that some Latin American countries are blocking the decision and this invitation," he stated, in remarks from Kyiv which aired by state broadcaster TVE. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war environmental damage: Greta Thunberg discusses with Zelensky "I want them not only to join the peace formula but to stand against war," he stated. Earlier this year, Western countries were irritated by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva when he stated that the West had been "encouraging" war by arming Ukraine. Zelensky, in the interview, also appealed for a concrete plan for Ukraine to join NATO. Kyiv has been working with allies to get major international support for a peace blueprint, without any territorial compromises. Senior officials from the EU, Ukraine, G7 countries, and nations like Brazil, India, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and Turkey held a meeting on Saturday in Denmark to discuss the concept and stated that some progress was made by them, however, any summit for endorsing a document was at least months away. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Spanish PM Sanchez reaches Kyiv to kick off Madrid's EU presidency

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday ordered the security at his country's border with Belarus to be tightened after the arrival of fighters from the mercenary group Wagner in the neighbouring nation.</p>

<p>The mercenary group's fighters and its chief were offered an exile in Belarus after their mutiny against Russian military leadership&nbsp;was aborted last week. As a part of a deal, President Vladimir Putin gave the fighters a choice of signing contracts with the Russian defence ministry, returning to civilian life or going into exile in Belarus.</p>

<p>Zelensky, on Friday, said that he had been informed of the situation in Belarus by the Ukrainian intelligence service GUR, foreign intelligence services and border guards.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"By the decision of the Stavka (chief of staff), Commander-in-Chief (Valery) Zaluzhny and General (Sergey) Nayev were instructed to strengthen the northern direction in order to guarantee peace. There are appropriate deadlines," the Ukraine leader said in a video posted on Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus': Putin</strong></h2>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the nation late on Monday, said that he would honour his promise to allow Wagner fighters to relocate to Belarus, if they wanted, or to sign a contract with the Defence Ministry or simply return to their families.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-lukashenko-emerged-as-a-key-player-to-resolve-wagner-situation-608913">Explained | How Lukashenko emerged as key player to resolve Wagner situation</a></p>

<p>"I thank those soldiers and commanders of the Wagner Group who made the only right decision - they did not turn to fratricidal bloodshed, they stopped at the last line. Today, you have the opportunity to continue serving Russia by entering into a contract with the Ministry of Defence or other law enforcement agencies or to return to your family and friends. Whoever wants to, can go to Belarus. The promise I made will be fulfilled."</p>

<p>He then thanked the Wagner mercenary fighters and commanders who had stood down to avoid bloodshed.</p>

<p>“We knew and we know that the vast majority of the fighters and commanders of the Wagner Group are also Russian patriots, devoted to their people and state. They proved it with their courage on the battlefield, liberating the Donbas and Novorossiya. They tried to use them in the dark against their brothers-in-arms, with whom they fought together for the sake of the country and its future. Therefore, from the very beginning of the events, on my direct instructions, steps were taken to avoid a lot of bloodshed."</p>

<p>Belarus leader Alexander Lukashenko offered Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin refuge after he aborted the armed rebellion against Moscow a week ago.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday ordered the security at his country's border with Belarus to be tightened after the arrival of fighters from the mercenary group Wagner in the neighbouring nation.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday ordered the security at his country's border with Belarus to be tightened after the arrival of fighters from the mercenary group Wagner in the neighbouring nation. The mercenary group's fighters and its chief were offered an exile in Belarus after their mutiny against Russian military leadership was aborted last week. As a part of a deal, President Vladimir Putin gave the fighters a choice of signing contracts with the Russian defence ministry, returning to civilian life or going into exile in Belarus. Zelensky, on Friday, said that he had been informed of the situation in Belarus by the Ukrainian intelligence service GUR, foreign intelligence services and border guards. "By the decision of the Stavka (chief of staff), Commander-in-Chief (Valery) Zaluzhny and General (Sergey) Nayev were instructed to strengthen the northern direction in order to guarantee peace. There are appropriate deadlines," the Ukraine leader said in a video posted on Telegram. Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus': Putin Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the nation late on Monday, said that he would honour his promise to allow Wagner fighters to relocate to Belarus, if they wanted, or to sign a contract with the Defence Ministry or simply return to their families. Also read: Explained | How Lukashenko emerged as key player to resolve Wagner situation "I thank those soldiers and commanders of the Wagner Group who made the only right decision - they did not turn to fratricidal bloodshed, they stopped at the last line. Today, you have the opportunity to continue serving Russia by entering into a contract with the Ministry of Defence or other law enforcement agencies or to return to your family and friends. Whoever wants to, can go to Belarus. The promise I made will be fulfilled." He then thanked the Wagner mercenary fighters and commanders who had stood down to avoid bloodshed. “We knew and we know that the vast majority of the fighters and commanders of the Wagner Group are also Russian patriots, devoted to their people and state. They proved it with their courage on the battlefield, liberating the Donbas and Novorossiya. They tried to use them in the dark against their brothers-in-arms, with whom they fought together for the sake of the country and its future. Therefore, from the very beginning of the events, on my direct instructions, steps were taken to avoid a lot of bloodshed." Belarus leader Alexander Lukashenko offered Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin refuge after he aborted the armed rebellion against Moscow a week ago. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Volodymyr Zelensky orders tighter security on Ukraine-Belarus border after arrival of Wagner fighters

<p>Russian rocket strikes in Ukraine killed at least 11 people and&nbsp;injured 56&nbsp;on Tuesday, said the country's interior minister. Among the dead at the cafe which was hit in Kramatorsk, a town located in eastern Ukraine, include three children, two of whom were twin sisters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As of 07:00 (0400 GMT) on June 28, the bodies of eight dead people (including three children, two of them born in 2008 and 2011) were unblocked from under the rubble of the destroyed cafe building," the State Emergency Service of Ukraine said on Telegram.</p>

<p>The educational department of Kramatorsk city council said in a Telegram post,&nbsp;"Two sisters, both age 14, died in the missile&nbsp;attack."&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs said that the attack in Kramatorsk wounded another 56 people.</p>

<p>The rocket strikes hit a restaurant in the town of Kramatorsk, one of the largest still under Ukrainian control in the east, and is a popular eatery that is frequented by both journalists and soldiers.</p>

<p>As per Ukrainian police, Russia fired two S-300 surface-to-air missiles at the city.&nbsp;The S-300 is a surface-to-air missile that cannot hit targets on the ground accurately, but have&nbsp; been repurposed it for loosely targeted strikes on cities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There were a lot of people in there -- there are children under the rubble," said Yevgen, who had been dining with two friends at the Ria Pizza restaurant.</p>

<p>"We were just about to leave," he said, but one of his friends was not "under the rubble", he told AFP after the blast.</p>

<p>As per AFP reports, a crowd quickly gathered at the site of the strike where fires broke out after the strikes as soldiers and rescue workers searched for other victims.</p>

<p>President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;condemned the missile strikes saying that S-300 missiles were used to carry out the deadly attacks.</p>

<p>"Exactly on the anniversary of the Russian terrorists' attack on Kremenchuk, on a shopping mall, where&nbsp;22 people were killed, Russian savages again fired missiles at the Kremenchuk district," he said.</p>

<p>"Today, Russian terrorists also brutally shelled Kramatorsk... Unfortunately, there are killed and wounded. Assistance is being provided. The rubble is being cleared."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-plane-belonging-to-wagner-chief-reportedly-lands-in-belarus-609259">Russia-Ukraine war: Lukashenko says Wagner chief Prigozhin in Belarus</a></p>

<p>According to Donetsk governor Pavlo Kyrylenko, two Russian rockets hit the city of 150,000 people, one of the largest still under Ukrainian control in the country's besieged east.</p>

<p>"There was a good crowd" at the restaurant when the missile hit, one of its cooks, a 32-year-old Ruslan, told AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I had just arrived: I was standing there, and then I was buried," he said. "I was lucky."</p>

<p>Natalia, in tears, explained that her half-brother Nikita, 23, was inside near the pizza oven.</p>

<p>"They can't get him out, he was covered&nbsp;by debris," she said.</p>

<p>The strike also caused destruction and damaged several nearby buildings which have often been targeted by Russian forces since the invasion launched by Russia in February 2022.</p>

<p>"People told me they heard a plane flying, there was a hissing and then an explosion," a 19-year-old Ukrainian soldier who gave his war name as "Ghost", and was nearby when the strike occurred, told AFP.</p>

<p>He quickly entered the restaurant to help rescue workers. "A girl was trapped, injured. They haven't yet been able to get her out," he said.<br />
<br />
Kramatorsk is located in Donetsk, one of the four Ukrainian provinces that Russia claimed to annex last September but does not fully control.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Russian rocket strikes in Ukraine killed at least 11 people and injured 56 on Tuesday, said the country's interior minister. Among the dead at the cafe which was hit in Kramatorsk, a town located in eastern Ukraine, include three children, two of whom were twin sisters.

Russian rocket strikes in Ukraine killed at least 11 people and injured 56 on Tuesday, said the country's interior minister. Among the dead at the cafe which was hit in Kramatorsk, a town located in eastern Ukraine, include three children, two of whom were twin sisters. "As of 07:00 (0400 GMT) on June 28, the bodies of eight dead people (including three children, two of them born in 2008 and 2011) were unblocked from under the rubble of the destroyed cafe building," the State Emergency Service of Ukraine said on Telegram. The educational department of Kramatorsk city council said in a Telegram post, "Two sisters, both age 14, died in the missile attack." The Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs said that the attack in Kramatorsk wounded another 56 people. The rocket strikes hit a restaurant in the town of Kramatorsk, one of the largest still under Ukrainian control in the east, and is a popular eatery that is frequented by both journalists and soldiers. As per Ukrainian police, Russia fired two S-300 surface-to-air missiles at the city. The S-300 is a surface-to-air missile that cannot hit targets on the ground accurately, but have been repurposed it for loosely targeted strikes on cities. "There were a lot of people in there -- there are children under the rubble," said Yevgen, who had been dining with two friends at the Ria Pizza restaurant. "We were just about to leave," he said, but one of his friends was not "under the rubble", he told AFP after the blast. As per AFP reports, a crowd quickly gathered at the site of the strike where fires broke out after the strikes as soldiers and rescue workers searched for other victims. President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the missile strikes saying that S-300 missiles were used to carry out the deadly attacks. "Exactly on the anniversary of the Russian terrorists' attack on Kremenchuk, on a shopping mall, where 22 people were killed, Russian savages again fired missiles at the Kremenchuk district," he said. "Today, Russian terrorists also brutally shelled Kramatorsk... Unfortunately, there are killed and wounded. Assistance is being provided. The rubble is being cleared." Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Lukashenko says Wagner chief Prigozhin in Belarus According to Donetsk governor Pavlo Kyrylenko, two Russian rockets hit the city of 150,000 people, one of the largest still under Ukrainian control in the country's besieged east. "There was a good crowd" at the restaurant when the missile hit, one of its cooks, a 32-year-old Ruslan, told AFP. "I had just arrived: I was standing there, and then I was buried," he said. "I was lucky." Natalia, in tears, explained that her half-brother Nikita, 23, was inside near the pizza oven. "They can't get him out, he was covered by debris," she said. The strike also caused destruction and damaged several nearby buildings which have often been targeted by Russian forces since the invasion launched by Russia in February 2022. "People told me they heard a plane flying, there was a hissing and then an explosion," a 19-year-old Ukrainian soldier who gave his war name as "Ghost", and was nearby when the strike occurred, told AFP. He quickly entered the restaurant to help rescue workers. "A girl was trapped, injured. They haven't yet been able to get her out," he said. Kramatorsk is located in Donetsk, one of the four Ukrainian provinces that Russia claimed to annex last September but does not fully control. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian strikes at restaurant in Ukraine kill 11, including three kids, injure 56

<p>Solid majorities of Americans support providing weaponry to Ukraine to defend itself against Russia and believe that such aid demonstrates to China and other US&nbsp;rivals a will to protect US&nbsp;interests and allies, according to a Reuters/Ipsos survey.</p>

<p>The two-day poll that was concluded on Tuesday charted a sharp rise in backing for arming Ukraine, with 65% of the respondents approving of the shipments compared with 46% in a May poll.</p>

<p>Eighty-one per cent of Democrats, 56% of Republicans and 57% of independents favour supplying U.S. weapons to Ukraine,&nbsp;according to the latest poll.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russian strike on restaurant in Ukraine leaves 42 injured, child among those dead</strong></p>

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<p>The survey was conducted just days after Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the private Wagner mercenary company, launched and then called off a mutiny over what he charged was the Russian defence ministry's mishandling of the war in Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/leaked-intel-foils-wagners-attempt-to-capture-russias-military-leadership-report-609743">Leaked intel foils Wagner's attempt to capture Russia's military leadership: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The findings appeared to provide firmer backing for US&nbsp;President Joe Biden's policy of doing "whatever it takes" to assist Ukraine in recapturing territory that Russia seized in an initial assault in 2014 and its full-scale invasion 16 months ago.</p>

<p>"This definitely reinforces Biden's decision to be all-in on this," said William Taylor, a former US&nbsp;ambassador to Ukraine now with the U.S. Institute of Peace.</p>

<p>"The Republican leadership of the House and Senate will also take heart from this," Taylor said. Some right-wing Republican lawmakers have opposed continuing US&nbsp;military support for Ukraine.</p>

<p>The Biden administration has approved 41 weapons packages for Ukraine totaling more than $40 billion since Russian President Vladimir Putin launched what he calls "a special military operation" in February 2022.</p>

<p>The online Reuters/Ipsos poll was conducted nationwide, collecting responses from 1,004 adults, including 400 Democrats and 383 Republicans. It had a credibility interval, a measure of precision, of about 4 percentage points in either direction.</p>

<p>The poll found that 76% of Americans believe that providing aid to Ukraine demonstrates to China and other rivals that the United States has "the will and capability to protect our interests, our allies and ourselves."</p>

<p>In other findings, the survey said large majorities of Americans - 67% and 73% - are more likely to support a candidate in next year's U.S. presidential election who will continue military aid to Ukraine and one who backs the NATO alliance.</p>

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Solid majorities of Americans support providing weaponry to Ukraine to defend itself against Russia and believe that such aid demonstrates to China and other US rivals a will to protect US interests and allies, according to a Reuters/Ipsos survey.

Solid majorities of Americans support providing weaponry to Ukraine to defend itself against Russia and believe that such aid demonstrates to China and other US rivals a will to protect US interests and allies, according to a Reuters/Ipsos survey. The two-day poll that was concluded on Tuesday charted a sharp rise in backing for arming Ukraine, with 65% of the respondents approving of the shipments compared with 46% in a May poll. Eighty-one per cent of Democrats, 56% of Republicans and 57% of independents favour supplying U.S. weapons to Ukraine, according to the latest poll. Watch | Russian strike on restaurant in Ukraine leaves 42 injured, child among those dead × The survey was conducted just days after Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the private Wagner mercenary company, launched and then called off a mutiny over what he charged was the Russian defence ministry's mishandling of the war in Ukraine. Also Read | Leaked intel foils Wagner's attempt to capture Russia's military leadership: Report The findings appeared to provide firmer backing for US President Joe Biden's policy of doing "whatever it takes" to assist Ukraine in recapturing territory that Russia seized in an initial assault in 2014 and its full-scale invasion 16 months ago. "This definitely reinforces Biden's decision to be all-in on this," said William Taylor, a former US ambassador to Ukraine now with the U.S. Institute of Peace. "The Republican leadership of the House and Senate will also take heart from this," Taylor said. Some right-wing Republican lawmakers have opposed continuing US military support for Ukraine. The Biden administration has approved 41 weapons packages for Ukraine totaling more than $40 billion since Russian President Vladimir Putin launched what he calls "a special military operation" in February 2022. The online Reuters/Ipsos poll was conducted nationwide, collecting responses from 1,004 adults, including 400 Democrats and 383 Republicans. It had a credibility interval, a measure of precision, of about 4 percentage points in either direction. The poll found that 76% of Americans believe that providing aid to Ukraine demonstrates to China and other rivals that the United States has "the will and capability to protect our interests, our allies and ourselves." In other findings, the survey said large majorities of Americans - 67% and 73% - are more likely to support a candidate in next year's U.S. presidential election who will continue military aid to Ukraine and one who backs the NATO alliance. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Most Americans support US arming Ukraine -Reuters/Ipsos

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<p>Nepali Gurkhas are joining the Russian mercenary group Wagner eyeing Russian citizenship. According to a report by the EurAsian Times on Sunday (June 25), some of the fighters have retired from the Nepali Army. The report said that Nepal has been caught off guard as it does not have any bilateral pacts with Russia, and the Nepalese embassy in Moscow claimed that youngsters are going in their personal capacity. More than a dozen Nepali youths are getting trained in handling weapons and fighting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On May 16 this year, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree, simplifying the process of obtaining Russian citizenship for foreigners who joined the Russian military in the ongoing Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to the EurAsian Times, strategic analyst Major General Binoj Basnyat (retired) from the Nepal Army said, "This is a concerning situation. The Nepal government is not able to do anything about it as they have gone in an individual capacity."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-vladimir-putin-wanted-to-kill-wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-but-stopped-heres-how-609686">Vladimir Putin wanted to kill Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin but stopped. Here's what happened</a></strong></p>

<p>Basnyat said that if Nepalese citizens are part of the military of a sovereign nation, it has to be part of the government's foreign policy, or there has to be a Memorandum of Understanding or a treaty with the other country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"No such instruments are in place in this case,” the strategic analyst added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>An offer hard to resist</strong></h2>

<p>The May 16 decree signed by Putin is hard for Nepali youngsters to resist keeping in mind the unemployment rate in the country. Basnyat said that after finishing their studies, a large number of Nepali youngsters are coming out for employment, but they have not been absorbed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The number of youth looking to leave for other countries in search of jobs and opportunities has shot up,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The major employment opportunities in Nepal are in the informal sector with poor working conditions and wages, the report said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Videos show Nepalese youths joining Russian Army</strong></h2>

<p>For the past few weeks, videos on social media platforms including TikTok and Telegram showed Nepali youngsters joining the Russian Army. There was also news of Nepalese citizens joining the French Legion, but entering Russia is easier than entering Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, the publication reported that Nepalese Gurkhas won't be joining the Indian Army this year as Kathmandu did not allow the recruitment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A youth from Nepal's Koshi, who studied at a Russian university, said he had two options after completing his education - either go back to Nepal unemployed or join the Russian army.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The person said that even during the (army) training period, the salary was about 50,000 Nepalese Rupees along with insurance. "After one year, citizenship is also available. If I don’t die in one year, I will live here,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

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Nepali Gurkhas are joining the Russian mercenary group Wagner eyeing Russian citizenship. According to a report by the EurAsian Times on Sunday (June 25), some of the fighters have retired from the Nepali Army.

Nepali Gurkhas are joining the Russian mercenary group Wagner eyeing Russian citizenship. According to a report by the EurAsian Times on Sunday (June 25), some of the fighters have retired from the Nepali Army. The report said that Nepal has been caught off guard as it does not have any bilateral pacts with Russia, and the Nepalese embassy in Moscow claimed that youngsters are going in their personal capacity. More than a dozen Nepali youths are getting trained in handling weapons and fighting. On May 16 this year, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree, simplifying the process of obtaining Russian citizenship for foreigners who joined the Russian military in the ongoing Ukraine war. Speaking to the EurAsian Times, strategic analyst Major General Binoj Basnyat (retired) from the Nepal Army said, "This is a concerning situation. The Nepal government is not able to do anything about it as they have gone in an individual capacity." Also read | Vladimir Putin wanted to kill Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin but stopped. Here's what happened Basnyat said that if Nepalese citizens are part of the military of a sovereign nation, it has to be part of the government's foreign policy, or there has to be a Memorandum of Understanding or a treaty with the other country. "No such instruments are in place in this case,” the strategic analyst added. An offer hard to resist The May 16 decree signed by Putin is hard for Nepali youngsters to resist keeping in mind the unemployment rate in the country. Basnyat said that after finishing their studies, a large number of Nepali youngsters are coming out for employment, but they have not been absorbed. "The number of youth looking to leave for other countries in search of jobs and opportunities has shot up,” he added. The major employment opportunities in Nepal are in the informal sector with poor working conditions and wages, the report said. Videos show Nepalese youths joining Russian Army For the past few weeks, videos on social media platforms including TikTok and Telegram showed Nepali youngsters joining the Russian Army. There was also news of Nepalese citizens joining the French Legion, but entering Russia is easier than entering Europe. Earlier, the publication reported that Nepalese Gurkhas won't be joining the Indian Army this year as Kathmandu did not allow the recruitment. A youth from Nepal's Koshi, who studied at a Russian university, said he had two options after completing his education - either go back to Nepal unemployed or join the Russian army. The person said that even during the (army) training period, the salary was about 50,000 Nepalese Rupees along with insurance. "After one year, citizenship is also available. If I don’t die in one year, I will live here,” he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Nepali Gurkhas joining Wagner group while eyeing Russian citizenship: Report

<p>Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Tuesday spilled the beans on the hectic parleys that took place to defuse tensions between Russian President Vladimir Putin and the rebelling Wagner Group mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin.</p>

<p>Lukashenko&nbsp;played a key role in halting the short-lived coup attempt in exchange for a deal that included providing asylum to Prigozhin.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, Russia's FSB security service dropped charges against the participants in the insurrection as part of a deal negotiated by Lukashenko and his long-term ally Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lukashenko said Prigozhin had arrived in Belarus and was welcome to stay "for some time".&nbsp;</p>

<p>“At 10.10, he (Putin) called and informed me in detail about the situation that is happening in Russia. He asked several questions, including how to counteract this, and I realised that the situation is complicated,” Lukashenko said at a military awards ceremony in Minsk.</p>

<p>He then said that Putin wanted to eliminate Prigozhin, but decided not to “rush” after Lukashenko intervened.</p>

<p>Lukashenko said he told the Wagner chief that he would be “squashed like a bug” if he proceeds to march towards Moscow and warned that the Kremlin would never fulfil his demand of ousting Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu and the Chief of The General Staff, General Valery Gerasimov.</p>

<p>The president further revealed that Putin was furious that the Wagner chief wouldn't take his calls during the brief uprising.</p>

<h2><strong>Behind the scenes </strong></h2>

<p>Detailing his back-to-back calls with Putin and Prigozhin on Saturday, Lukashenko told Prigozhin that it would be against his own interests if he thinks that he would get justice for the alleged wrongdoings against Wagner.</p>

<p>“Our first round of talks lasted about 30 minutes and we talked mostly in swear words. Almost only swear words," Lukashenko said.</p>

<p>"Later, it occurred to me that there were 10&nbsp;times more swear words than normal words."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-strikes-on-ukraine-restaurant-kills-at-least-injures-22-people-609413">Russian strikes at eatery in Ukraine kill 9, including three kids, injure 56</a></p>

<p>Lukashenko told Prigozhin that "no one will ever hand over Shoigu, Gerasimov, or anyone else, for that matter. Especially in this situation. You know Putin as well as I do."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/firing-season-continues-google-lays-off-employees-at-its-mapping-app-waze-609587">Firing season continues: Google lays off employees at its mapping app Waze</a></p>

<p>“For a long time, I was trying to convince him. And in the end, I said, ‘You know, you can do whatever you want. But don't be offended by me. Our brigade is ready for transfer to Moscow'," Lukashenko told state media.</p>

<p>Lukashenko said that he had detailed negotiations with Putin, who was reluctant to let go Prigozhin unpunished.</p>

<p>“The most dangerous thing, as I understand it, is not what the situation was, but how it could develop and its consequences,” Lukashenko said, according to Belarussian state media.</p>

<p>“I also realised there was a harsh decision taken — to destroy (Prigozhin). I suggested Putin not to hurry. Let’s talk with <a name="_Hlk138863381">Prigozhin</a>, with his commanders.”</p>

<p>Lukashenko said Putin told him: “Listen, Alex, it’s useless. (Prigozhin) doesn’t even pick up the phone, he doesn’t want to talk to anyone.”</p>

<p>But despite that Lukashenko said he was able to get hold of the Wagner boss and bring him to senses.</p>

<h2><strong>Kremlin’s response</strong></h2>

<p>Putin has so far been silent on the backchannel talks between his long-time ally Lukashenko and Prigozhin.</p>

<p>But in a statement, the Kremlin credited Lukashenko for helping to de-escalate the tense situation, though they did not corroborate the Belarus leader’s account of events.</p>

<p>Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Lukashenko was able to draw on a personal relationship&nbsp;with Prigozhin to reach the deal, which would also see Wagner troops and equipment absorbed by the Russian military.</p>

<p>The Defence Ministry didn't release any information about casualties, but media reports said at least a dozen airmen were killed.</p>

<p>When asked why the rebels were allowed to advance to roughly 200 kilometres away from Moscow without facing any resistance, National Guard chief Viktor Zolotov said authorities tried to assemble a strong force capable of stopping the onslaught.</p>

<p>"We concentrated our forces in one fist closer to Moscow," he told reporters. "If we spread them thin, they would have come like a knife through butter."</p>

<p>General Zolotov also said the National Guard had lacked battle tanks and other heavy weapons, but&nbsp;would now get them.</p>

<h2><strong>Belarus wouldn’t mind a Wagner-like unit</strong></h2>

<p>Lukashenko further said that his defence minister Viktor Khrennikov was very much interested in having a Wagner-like unit in the Belarusian army. He said that he has instructed Khrennikov to negotiate with Prigozhin on the matter.</p>

<p>When asked where is Prigozhin and his troops are staying, the Belrusian leader said that the mercenary leader and some of his troops are staying at one of the abandoned military bases.</p>

<p>They will be staying at their own expense, Lukashenko said.</p>

<h2>What will happen of Wagner troops?</h2>

<p>The Russian Defence Ministry said that preparations are underway for Wagner's troops, who numbered 25,000, to hand over their heavy weapons to the Russian military.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prigozhin had said those moves were being taken ahead of a July 1 deadline for his fighters to sign contracts to serve under the Russian military's command.</p>

<p>Prigozhin issued no public statements on Tuesday.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Tuesday spilled the beans on the hectic parleys that took place to defuse tensions between Russian President Vladimir Putin and the rebelling Wagner Group mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Tuesday spilled the beans on the hectic parleys that took place to defuse tensions between Russian President Vladimir Putin and the rebelling Wagner Group mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin. Lukashenko played a key role in halting the short-lived coup attempt in exchange for a deal that included providing asylum to Prigozhin. On Tuesday, Russia's FSB security service dropped charges against the participants in the insurrection as part of a deal negotiated by Lukashenko and his long-term ally Putin. Lukashenko said Prigozhin had arrived in Belarus and was welcome to stay "for some time". “At 10.10, he (Putin) called and informed me in detail about the situation that is happening in Russia. He asked several questions, including how to counteract this, and I realised that the situation is complicated,” Lukashenko said at a military awards ceremony in Minsk. He then said that Putin wanted to eliminate Prigozhin, but decided not to “rush” after Lukashenko intervened. Lukashenko said he told the Wagner chief that he would be “squashed like a bug” if he proceeds to march towards Moscow and warned that the Kremlin would never fulfil his demand of ousting Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu and the Chief of The General Staff, General Valery Gerasimov. The president further revealed that Putin was furious that the Wagner chief wouldn't take his calls during the brief uprising. Behind the scenes Detailing his back-to-back calls with Putin and Prigozhin on Saturday, Lukashenko told Prigozhin that it would be against his own interests if he thinks that he would get justice for the alleged wrongdoings against Wagner. “Our first round of talks lasted about 30 minutes and we talked mostly in swear words. Almost only swear words," Lukashenko said. "Later, it occurred to me that there were 10 times more swear words than normal words." Also read | Russian strikes at eatery in Ukraine kill 9, including three kids, injure 56 Lukashenko told Prigozhin that "no one will ever hand over Shoigu, Gerasimov, or anyone else, for that matter. Especially in this situation. You know Putin as well as I do." Also read | Firing season continues: Google lays off employees at its mapping app Waze “For a long time, I was trying to convince him. And in the end, I said, ‘You know, you can do whatever you want. But don't be offended by me. Our brigade is ready for transfer to Moscow'," Lukashenko told state media. Lukashenko said that he had detailed negotiations with Putin, who was reluctant to let go Prigozhin unpunished. “The most dangerous thing, as I understand it, is not what the situation was, but how it could develop and its consequences,” Lukashenko said, according to Belarussian state media. “I also realised there was a harsh decision taken — to destroy (Prigozhin). I suggested Putin not to hurry. Let’s talk with Prigozhin, with his commanders.” Lukashenko said Putin told him: “Listen, Alex, it’s useless. (Prigozhin) doesn’t even pick up the phone, he doesn’t want to talk to anyone.” But despite that Lukashenko said he was able to get hold of the Wagner boss and bring him to senses. Kremlin’s response Putin has so far been silent on the backchannel talks between his long-time ally Lukashenko and Prigozhin. But in a statement, the Kremlin credited Lukashenko for helping to de-escalate the tense situation, though they did not corroborate the Belarus leader’s account of events. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Lukashenko was able to draw on a personal relationship with Prigozhin to reach the deal, which would also see Wagner troops and equipment absorbed by the Russian military. The Defence Ministry didn't release any information about casualties, but media reports said at least a dozen airmen were killed. When asked why the rebels were allowed to advance to roughly 200 kilometres away from Moscow without facing any resistance, National Guard chief Viktor Zolotov said authorities tried to assemble a strong force capable of stopping the onslaught. "We concentrated our forces in one fist closer to Moscow," he told reporters. "If we spread them thin, they would have come like a knife through butter." General Zolotov also said the National Guard had lacked battle tanks and other heavy weapons, but would now get them. Belarus wouldn’t mind a Wagner-like unit Lukashenko further said that his defence minister Viktor Khrennikov was very much interested in having a Wagner-like unit in the Belarusian army. He said that he has instructed Khrennikov to negotiate with Prigozhin on the matter. When asked where is Prigozhin and his troops are staying, the Belrusian leader said that the mercenary leader and some of his troops are staying at one of the abandoned military bases. They will be staying at their own expense, Lukashenko said. What will happen of Wagner troops? The Russian Defence Ministry said that preparations are underway for Wagner's troops, who numbered 25,000, to hand over their heavy weapons to the Russian military. Prigozhin had said those moves were being taken ahead of a July 1 deadline for his fighters to sign contracts to serve under the Russian military's command. Prigozhin issued no public statements on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | Putin wanted to kill Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, but stopped. Here's what happened

<p>Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko claimed that he had requested Russian President Vladimir Putin not to "wipe out" mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin amid the armed mutiny of Wagner group that pushed Russia to the brink of civil war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Initially, Putin had promised to crush the mutiny which it compared to the wartime turmoil that had led to the revolution of 1917 followed by civil war, however, hours later the Wagner chief finalised a deal which allowed him along with some of his fighters to go to Belarus.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, Wagner&nbsp;chief flew to Belarus from Russia. Lukashenko, while talking about the conversation he had with Putin on Saturday, made use of the Russian criminal slang phrase used for killing someone which is similar to the English phrase to "wipe out".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-lukashenko-emerged-as-a-key-player-to-resolve-wagner-situation-608913">Explained | How Lukashenko emerged as key player to resolve Wagner situation</a></p>

<p>"I also understood: a brutal decision had been made (and it was the undertone of Putin's address) to wipe out&nbsp;the mutineers," said Lukashenko in a meeting of his army officials as well as journalists on Tuesday, as reported by the Belarusian state media.</p>

<p>"I suggested to Putin not to rush. 'Come on,' I said, 'Let's talk with Prigozhin, with his commanders.' To which he told me: 'Listen, Sasha, it's useless. He doesn't even pick up the phone, he doesn’t want to talk to anyone'," he stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The same Russian verb was used by Putin in 1999 about Chechen militants, as he vowed to "wipe out them out in the shithouse". The remarks made by Putin became a widely quoted emblem of the Russian leader's severe persona.</p>

<h2><strong>'Experience of Wagner troops beneficial'</strong></h2>

<p>No immediate comment was made by Kremlin on the remarks of Lukashenko. The statements gave a rare insight into the conversations that took place inside the Kremlin as Russia, as per its own account of Putin, teetered towards a kind of turmoil which the country had not seen for decades.</p>

<p>Lukashenko, a close ally of Putin and an old acquaintance of Prigozhin, said that he had asked the Russian president to think "beyond our own noses" and that the elimination of Prigozhin can trigger a widespread revolt by his fighters.</p>

<p>The Belarusian leader also stated that the experience of Wagner troops can benefit his own army as the troop, according to the deal finalised with the Kremlin, are now free to go towards Belarus.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Wagner Revolt: Lukashenko positions himself as voice of reason</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wagner-revolt-lukashenko-positions-himself-as-voice-of-reason-609460/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"This is the most trained unit in the army," Lukashenko was quoted by the BelTA state agency as saying. "Who will argue with this? My military also understands this, and we don't have such people in Belarus," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lukashenko, later, said to his military that "people fail to understand that we are approaching this in a pragmatic way ... They've (Wagner) been through it, they'll tell us about the weaponry - what worked well, which worked badly."</p>

<p>Prigozhin's "march of justice" towards Moscow from Rostov-on-Don, the southern city located within 200 kilometres of the capital, was halted after the intervention of Lukashenko.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko claimed that he had requested Russian President Vladimir Putin not to "wipe out" mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin amid the armed mutiny of Wagner group that pushed Russia to the brink of civil war.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko claimed that he had requested Russian President Vladimir Putin not to "wipe out" mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin amid the armed mutiny of Wagner group that pushed Russia to the brink of civil war. Initially, Putin had promised to crush the mutiny which it compared to the wartime turmoil that had led to the revolution of 1917 followed by civil war, however, hours later the Wagner chief finalised a deal which allowed him along with some of his fighters to go to Belarus. On Tuesday, Wagner chief flew to Belarus from Russia. Lukashenko, while talking about the conversation he had with Putin on Saturday, made use of the Russian criminal slang phrase used for killing someone which is similar to the English phrase to "wipe out". ALSO READ | Explained | How Lukashenko emerged as key player to resolve Wagner situation "I also understood: a brutal decision had been made (and it was the undertone of Putin's address) to wipe out the mutineers," said Lukashenko in a meeting of his army officials as well as journalists on Tuesday, as reported by the Belarusian state media. "I suggested to Putin not to rush. 'Come on,' I said, 'Let's talk with Prigozhin, with his commanders.' To which he told me: 'Listen, Sasha, it's useless. He doesn't even pick up the phone, he doesn’t want to talk to anyone'," he stated. The same Russian verb was used by Putin in 1999 about Chechen militants, as he vowed to "wipe out them out in the shithouse". The remarks made by Putin became a widely quoted emblem of the Russian leader's severe persona. 'Experience of Wagner troops beneficial' No immediate comment was made by Kremlin on the remarks of Lukashenko. The statements gave a rare insight into the conversations that took place inside the Kremlin as Russia, as per its own account of Putin, teetered towards a kind of turmoil which the country had not seen for decades. Lukashenko, a close ally of Putin and an old acquaintance of Prigozhin, said that he had asked the Russian president to think "beyond our own noses" and that the elimination of Prigozhin can trigger a widespread revolt by his fighters. The Belarusian leader also stated that the experience of Wagner troops can benefit his own army as the troop, according to the deal finalised with the Kremlin, are now free to go towards Belarus. WATCH | Wagner Revolt: Lukashenko positions himself as voice of reason "This is the most trained unit in the army," Lukashenko was quoted by the BelTA state agency as saying. "Who will argue with this? My military also understands this, and we don't have such people in Belarus," he added. Lukashenko, later, said to his military that "people fail to understand that we are approaching this in a pragmatic way ... They've (Wagner) been through it, they'll tell us about the weaponry - what worked well, which worked badly." Prigozhin's "march of justice" towards Moscow from Rostov-on-Don, the southern city located within 200 kilometres of the capital, was halted after the intervention of Lukashenko. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Putin wished to ‘wipe out’ Wagner chief Prigozhin after mutiny, claims Lukashenko

<p>Russia mercenary group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, who turned his force against the military leadership in Moscow, will quit Russia and move to Belarus under an agreement brokered by Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, the Kremlin said on Saturday.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
All criminal charges against Prigozhin will also be dropped under the deal that ends the&nbsp;armed insurrection&nbsp;that appeared as the gravest threat to the authority of Russian President Vladimir Putin.</p>

<p>"Avoiding bloodshed, internal confrontation, and clashes with unpredictable results was the highest goal," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.</p>

<p>Peskov further added that under the deal, Wagner fighters will also not be prosecuted. "We have always respected their heroic deeds at the front," he said.</p>

<p>"An agreement has been reached that Wagner would return to its bases," Peskov said, adding that those fighters who had not participated in the rebellion would be allowed to formally join the Russian army.</p>

<h2><strong>Wagner chief Prigozhin orders his fighters to retreat</strong></h2>

<p>Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner mercenary group, ordered his fighters to retreat from their advance towards Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation or avert the potential bloodshed. Prigozhin revealed on Saturday that his forces had made significant progress, covering a distance of 200 km (124 miles) within the past 24 hours, but he has now issued orders for them to promptly return to their respective bases.</p>

<p>This comes as Belarus claimed that President Alexander Lukashenko was able to persuade the Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin to cease his march toward Moscow. If the claims are to be believed, it can lead to a potential end to the coup attempt in Russia, the first in the last 30 years.</p>

<p>Media reports citing Lukashenko's press service said the president engaged in extensive negotiations with Prigozhin throughout the "entire day" after establishing a mutual understanding with Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before his negotiations with Wagner's chief, he held talks with Putin and they agreed on joint actions and “additionally clarifying the situation through his own channels.”</p>

<p>The press service stated that Prigozhin has accepted Lukashenko's appeal to halt the movement. It said Prigozhin had “accepted [Lukashenko’s] request to “stop the movement of armed men from the Wagner company on Russian territory and [take] further steps to de-escalate the situation.”</p>

<p>“At the moment, there is an absolutely advantageous and acceptable way to defuse the situation on the table, with security guarantees for Wagner’s fighters,” Lukashenko’s press service said, as per media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russian President Vladimir Putin thanks Lukashenko</strong></h2>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Saturday, thanked Belarus leader, Alexander Lukashenko, after the chief of mercenary group&nbsp;Wagner&nbsp;Yegevy Prigozhin announced he was turning around his forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The President of Belarus informed the President of Russia in detail about the results of negotiations with the leadership of PMC Wagner," Lukashenko's press service released a statement saying as quoted by news agency AFP, adding Putin "thanked his Belarusian colleague."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Russia mercenary group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, who turned his force against the military leadership in Moscow, will quit Russia and move to Belarus under an agreement brokered by Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, the Kremlin said on Saturday.

Russia mercenary group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, who turned his force against the military leadership in Moscow, will quit Russia and move to Belarus under an agreement brokered by Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, the Kremlin said on Saturday. All criminal charges against Prigozhin will also be dropped under the deal that ends the armed insurrection that appeared as the gravest threat to the authority of Russian President Vladimir Putin. "Avoiding bloodshed, internal confrontation, and clashes with unpredictable results was the highest goal," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. Peskov further added that under the deal, Wagner fighters will also not be prosecuted. "We have always respected their heroic deeds at the front," he said. "An agreement has been reached that Wagner would return to its bases," Peskov said, adding that those fighters who had not participated in the rebellion would be allowed to formally join the Russian army. Wagner chief Prigozhin orders his fighters to retreat Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner mercenary group, ordered his fighters to retreat from their advance towards Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation or avert the potential bloodshed. Prigozhin revealed on Saturday that his forces had made significant progress, covering a distance of 200 km (124 miles) within the past 24 hours, but he has now issued orders for them to promptly return to their respective bases. This comes as Belarus claimed that President Alexander Lukashenko was able to persuade the Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin to cease his march toward Moscow. If the claims are to be believed, it can lead to a potential end to the coup attempt in Russia, the first in the last 30 years. Media reports citing Lukashenko's press service said the president engaged in extensive negotiations with Prigozhin throughout the "entire day" after establishing a mutual understanding with Putin. Before his negotiations with Wagner's chief, he held talks with Putin and they agreed on joint actions and “additionally clarifying the situation through his own channels.” The press service stated that Prigozhin has accepted Lukashenko's appeal to halt the movement. It said Prigozhin had “accepted [Lukashenko’s] request to “stop the movement of armed men from the Wagner company on Russian territory and [take] further steps to de-escalate the situation.” “At the moment, there is an absolutely advantageous and acceptable way to defuse the situation on the table, with security guarantees for Wagner’s fighters,” Lukashenko’s press service said, as per media reports. Russian President Vladimir Putin thanks Lukashenko Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Saturday, thanked Belarus leader, Alexander Lukashenko, after the chief of mercenary group Wagner Yegevy Prigozhin announced he was turning around his forces. "The President of Belarus informed the President of Russia in detail about the results of negotiations with the leadership of PMC Wagner," Lukashenko's press service released a statement saying as quoted by news agency AFP, adding Putin "thanked his Belarusian colleague." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin to quit Russia and move to Belarus under deal to end mutiny

<p>In a dramatic turn of events, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the rebel leader of the Wagner Group of mercenaries, ordered his fighters to retreat from their advance toward Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation and avert potential bloodshed following a deal with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko under which Russia would drop all charges against him and he will be granted safe passage to Belarus.&nbsp;Prigozhin revealed on Saturday that his forces had made significant progress, covering a distance of 200 km (124 miles) within the past 24 hours, but he has now issued orders for them to promptly return to their respective bases.</p>

<p>The Wagner mutiny drama ended after Belarus claimed that President Alexander Lukashenko was able to persuade the Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin to cease his march towards Moscow. If the claims are to be believed, it can lead to a potential end to the coup attempt in Russia, the first in last 30 years.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/archaeologists-unearth-4000-year-old-stonehenge-burial-ground-in-the-netherlands-608203">Archaeologists unearth 4,000-year-old ‘Stonehenge’ burial ground in the Netherlands</a></p>

<p>Media reports citing Lukashenko's press service said the president engaged in extensive negotiations with Prigozhin throughout the "entire day" after establishing a mutual understanding with Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before his negotiations with Wagner&nbsp;chief, Lukashenko held talks with Putin and they agreed on joint actions and “additionally clarifying the situation through his own channels.”</p>

<p>The press service stated that Prigozhin has accepted Lukashenko's appeal to halt the movement. It said Prigozhin had “accepted [Lukashenko’s] request to “stop the movement of armed men from the Wagner company on Russian territory and [take] further steps to de-escalate the situation.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-rolls-out-perspectives-tab-in-major-search-engine-revamp-608201">Google rolls out 'Perspectives' tab in major search-engine revamp</a></p>

<p>“At the moment, there is an absolutely advantageous and acceptable way to defuse the situation on the table, with security guarantees for Wagner’s fighters,” Lukashenko’s press service said, as per media reports.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">⚡️⚡️⚡️ President of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Belarus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Belarus</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lukashenko?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lukashenko</a> held talks w/ head of PMC Wagner <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Prigozhin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Prigozhin</a>. Negotiations continued throughout the day.<br />
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‼️Y.Prigozhin accepted the proposal of President of 🇧🇾 to stop the movement of armed people of the Wagner company on the territory of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://t.co/Kpf2SW7RNu">pic.twitter.com/Kpf2SW7RNu</a></p>
— Belarus MFA 🇧🇾 (@BelarusMFA) <a href="https://twitter.com/BelarusMFA/status/1672660872668368898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Before Wagner chief's decision to turn back his forces, Ukraine's defence ministry mocked the presence of Russian troops on the country's land on Saturday, urging them to return home and participate in the ongoing clashes between rebel mercenaries and Russia's military. The ministry's statement questioned the reason behind Russian soldiers still being stationed in challenging conditions instead of supporting their comrades involved in the conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the Ukrainian ministry asked, "Why Russian soldiers are still sitting in muddy trenches rather than running to the aid of their comrades on both sides of the conflict. That would be far safer than confronting the Ukrainian army."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | 'Putin's chef' vs Defence Minister: Where has Wagner operated?</strong></p>

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<p>Many world leaders were also keeping a close eye on the events in Russia as Putin faced a tough battle to push back Wagner chief from making gains in several Russian regions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, Wagner chief pledged to overthrow Russia's military leadership and his forces were moving through the Lipetsk region, situated around 400 kilometres (250 miles) south of Moscow, however, it seems like a deal was brokered between the warring factions which ultimately lead to the turning back of mercenary forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia's parliamentary leaders had expressed support for President Putin against Wagner mercenaries. On Saturday, the speakers of both houses of the Russian parliament declared their backing for President Vladimir Putin amidst the Wagner mercenary group's attempted ousting of the country's military leadership.</p>

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In a dramatic turn of events, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the rebel leader of the Wagner Group of mercenaries, ordered his fighters to retreat from their advance toward Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation and avert potential bloodshed following a deal with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko under which Russia would drop all charges against him and he will be granted safe passage to Belarus.

In a dramatic turn of events, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the rebel leader of the Wagner Group of mercenaries, ordered his fighters to retreat from their advance toward Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation and avert potential bloodshed following a deal with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko under which Russia would drop all charges against him and he will be granted safe passage to Belarus. Prigozhin revealed on Saturday that his forces had made significant progress, covering a distance of 200 km (124 miles) within the past 24 hours, but he has now issued orders for them to promptly return to their respective bases. The Wagner mutiny drama ended after Belarus claimed that President Alexander Lukashenko was able to persuade the Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin to cease his march towards Moscow. If the claims are to be believed, it can lead to a potential end to the coup attempt in Russia, the first in last 30 years. Also Read | Archaeologists unearth 4,000-year-old ‘Stonehenge’ burial ground in the Netherlands Media reports citing Lukashenko's press service said the president engaged in extensive negotiations with Prigozhin throughout the "entire day" after establishing a mutual understanding with Putin. Before his negotiations with Wagner chief, Lukashenko held talks with Putin and they agreed on joint actions and “additionally clarifying the situation through his own channels.” The press service stated that Prigozhin has accepted Lukashenko's appeal to halt the movement. It said Prigozhin had “accepted [Lukashenko’s] request to “stop the movement of armed men from the Wagner company on Russian territory and [take] further steps to de-escalate the situation.” Also Read | Google rolls out 'Perspectives' tab in major search-engine revamp “At the moment, there is an absolutely advantageous and acceptable way to defuse the situation on the table, with security guarantees for Wagner’s fighters,” Lukashenko’s press service said, as per media reports. ⚡️⚡️⚡️ President of #Belarus #Lukashenko held talks w/ head of PMC Wagner #Prigozhin. Negotiations continued throughout the day. ‼️Y.Prigozhin accepted the proposal of President of 🇧🇾 to stop the movement of armed people of the Wagner company on the territory of #Russia pic.twitter.com/Kpf2SW7RNu — Belarus MFA 🇧🇾 (@BelarusMFA) June 24, 2023 × Before Wagner chief's decision to turn back his forces, Ukraine's defence ministry mocked the presence of Russian troops on the country's land on Saturday, urging them to return home and participate in the ongoing clashes between rebel mercenaries and Russia's military. The ministry's statement questioned the reason behind Russian soldiers still being stationed in challenging conditions instead of supporting their comrades involved in the conflict. In a statement, the Ukrainian ministry asked, "Why Russian soldiers are still sitting in muddy trenches rather than running to the aid of their comrades on both sides of the conflict. That would be far safer than confronting the Ukrainian army." Watch | 'Putin's chef' vs Defence Minister: Where has Wagner operated? × Many world leaders were also keeping a close eye on the events in Russia as Putin faced a tough battle to push back Wagner chief from making gains in several Russian regions. Earlier in the day, Wagner chief pledged to overthrow Russia's military leadership and his forces were moving through the Lipetsk region, situated around 400 kilometres (250 miles) south of Moscow, however, it seems like a deal was brokered between the warring factions which ultimately lead to the turning back of mercenary forces. Russia's parliamentary leaders had expressed support for President Putin against Wagner mercenaries. On Saturday, the speakers of both houses of the Russian parliament declared their backing for President Vladimir Putin amidst the Wagner mercenary group's attempted ousting of the country's military leadership. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Wagner chief Prigozhin orders fighters to retreat, halt advance on Moscow to prevent bloodshed

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Saturday, thanked Belarus leader, Alexander Lukashenko, after the chief of mercenary group, Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin announced he was turning around his forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The President of Belarus informed the President of Russia in detail about the results of negotiations with the leadership of PMC Wagner," Lukashenko's press service released a statement saying as quoted by news agency AFP, adding Putin "thanked his Belarusian colleague."</p>

<h2><strong>Wagner chief commands fighters to retreat</strong></h2>

<p>In a dramatic turn of events, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner mercenary, commanded his fighters to retreat from their advance toward Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation or avert the potential bloodshed.</p>

<p>His move came after Belarus asserted that President Alexander Lukashenko was able to persuade the Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin to cease his march toward Moscow. If the claims are to be believed, it can lead to a potential end to the coup attempt in Russia, the first in the last 30 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media reports citing Lukashenko's press service said the president engaged in extensive negotiations with Prigozhin throughout the "entire day" after establishing a mutual understanding with Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before his negotiations with Wagner's chief, he held talks with Putin and they agreed on joint actions and “additionally clarifying the situation through his own channels.”</p>

<p>The press service stated that Prigozhin has accepted Lukashenko's appeal to halt the movement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;had made an emergency television broadcast railing against the “deadly threat to our state”.</p>

<p>Progozhin said that he wanted to avoid shedding Russian blood and would order his troops back to their bases instead.</p>

<p>“Now the moment has come when blood can be shed,” he said. “Therefore, realising all the responsibility for the fact that Russian blood will be shed from one side, we will turn our convoys around and go in the opposite direction to our field camps.”<br />
<br />
The Kremlin announced later on Saturday night that Prigozhin would move to Belarus under a deal to end what was in effect the country’s first armed coup in decades.</p>

<p>Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the criminal case that had been opened against Prigozhin for armed mutiny would be dropped, and the Wagner fighters who had taken part in his “march for justice” would not face any action in recognition of their previous service to Russia.</p>

<p>The Kremlin had earlier been forced to mobilise its forces and prepare defences as Prigozhin sent a convoy of armed troops towards Moscow.</p>

<p>Before Wagner chief's decision to turn back his forces, Ukraine's defence ministry mocked the presence of Russian troops within the country on Saturday, urging them to return home and participate in the ongoing clashes between rebel mercenaries and Russia's military. The ministry's statement questioned the reason behind Russian soldiers still being stationed in challenging conditions instead of supporting their comrades involved in the conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the Ukrainian ministry asked, "why Russian soldiers are still sitting in muddy trenches rather than running to the aid of their comrades on both sides of the conflict. That would be far safer than confronting the Ukrainian army."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Saturday, thanked Belarus leader, Alexander Lukashenko, after the chief of mercenary group, Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin announced he was turning around his forces.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Saturday, thanked Belarus leader, Alexander Lukashenko, after the chief of mercenary group, Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin announced he was turning around his forces. "The President of Belarus informed the President of Russia in detail about the results of negotiations with the leadership of PMC Wagner," Lukashenko's press service released a statement saying as quoted by news agency AFP, adding Putin "thanked his Belarusian colleague." Wagner chief commands fighters to retreat In a dramatic turn of events, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner mercenary, commanded his fighters to retreat from their advance toward Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation or avert the potential bloodshed. His move came after Belarus asserted that President Alexander Lukashenko was able to persuade the Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin to cease his march toward Moscow. If the claims are to be believed, it can lead to a potential end to the coup attempt in Russia, the first in the last 30 years. Media reports citing Lukashenko's press service said the president engaged in extensive negotiations with Prigozhin throughout the "entire day" after establishing a mutual understanding with Putin. Before his negotiations with Wagner's chief, he held talks with Putin and they agreed on joint actions and “additionally clarifying the situation through his own channels.” The press service stated that Prigozhin has accepted Lukashenko's appeal to halt the movement. Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin had made an emergency television broadcast railing against the “deadly threat to our state”. Progozhin said that he wanted to avoid shedding Russian blood and would order his troops back to their bases instead. “Now the moment has come when blood can be shed,” he said. “Therefore, realising all the responsibility for the fact that Russian blood will be shed from one side, we will turn our convoys around and go in the opposite direction to our field camps.” The Kremlin announced later on Saturday night that Prigozhin would move to Belarus under a deal to end what was in effect the country’s first armed coup in decades. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the criminal case that had been opened against Prigozhin for armed mutiny would be dropped, and the Wagner fighters who had taken part in his “march for justice” would not face any action in recognition of their previous service to Russia. The Kremlin had earlier been forced to mobilise its forces and prepare defences as Prigozhin sent a convoy of armed troops towards Moscow. Before Wagner chief's decision to turn back his forces, Ukraine's defence ministry mocked the presence of Russian troops within the country on Saturday, urging them to return home and participate in the ongoing clashes between rebel mercenaries and Russia's military. The ministry's statement questioned the reason behind Russian soldiers still being stationed in challenging conditions instead of supporting their comrades involved in the conflict. In a statement, the Ukrainian ministry asked, "why Russian soldiers are still sitting in muddy trenches rather than running to the aid of their comrades on both sides of the conflict. That would be far safer than confronting the Ukrainian army." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian President Vladimir Putin thanks Belarus leader after Wagner chief announces turnaround

<p lang="en-US">Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the Russians on Saturday, said that necessary orders have been given to the troops to neutralise those who have orchestrated the armed rebellion.<br />
<br />
The president addressed the nation as Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's armed forces declared to have gained control over the Russian city of RostoV and his army continued to 'march' towards the capital to oust the military leadership of the country.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Putin appeals for 'unity', says won't allow civil war</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">"I appeal to the citizens of Russia, to the personnel of the Armed Forces, law enforcement agencies and special services, to the soldiers and commanders who are now fighting in their combat positions, repelling enemy attacks – they are doing it heroically. I know. Today, I once again spoke with the commanders of all directions. I also appeal to those who, by deceit or threats, were dragged into a criminal adventure, pushed onto the path of a grave crime – an armed rebellion,” Putin said, in his address.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-issues-arrest-warrant-against-wagner-chief-after-his-call-for-mutiny-608089">Russia orders Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s arrest after his call for mutiny</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">"This is a battle when the fate of our people is being decided, it requires the unity of all forces, unity, consolidation and responsibility, when everything that weakens us, any strife that our external enemies can use and use to undermine us from the inside must be thrown aside".</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Putin calls Wagner chief's actions 'stab in the back', 'betrayal'</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">"The actions that split our unity are, in fact, apostasy from our people, from our comrades-in-arms who are now fighting at the front. This is a stab in the back to our country and our people. We will protect both our people and our statehood from any threats, including from internal betrayal, and what we are faced with is precisely betrayal&nbsp;to the cause for which, side by side with our other units and subunits, the fighters and commanders of the Wagner group fought and died,” the Russian president said.<br />
<br />
"I believe that we will save and defend what is dear and sacred to us. Together with our homeland, we will overcome any trials, we will become even stronger. Everyone who deliberately took the path of betrayal, who prepared an armed rebellion, took the path of rebellion and terrorist methods will suffer inevitable punishment, will answer before the law and before our people,” he added.<br />
<br />
The Wagner chief is facing accusations of "incitement to armed rebellion" as he asked Russians to support his 25,000 Wagner fighters against Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. Prigozhin has been charged with armed mutiny and can face up to 20 years of imprisonment, as per TASS.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Wagner chief accuses Russia military of bombing its forces</strong></p>

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<p lang="en-US">"Amid the seriousness of the situation and the threat of escalation of confrontation in the Russian Federation the FSB has opened a criminal case into the fact of a call for an armed rebellion on the part of Yevgeny Prigozhin," the Federal Security Service’s Public Relations Centre said.<br />
<br />
Russia, which has been engaging with Ukraine in one of the longest wars, is on the brink of civil war and feared a coup as it faced a rebellion from the Wagner group. Amid the escalating situation, an "anti-terrorist operation regime" has been declared in Moscow and all public events have been cancelled.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the Russians on Saturday, said that necessary orders have been given to the troops to neutralise those who have orchestrated the armed rebellion.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the Russians on Saturday, said that necessary orders have been given to the troops to neutralise those who have orchestrated the armed rebellion. The president addressed the nation as Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's armed forces declared to have gained control over the Russian city of RostoV and his army continued to 'march' towards the capital to oust the military leadership of the country. Putin appeals for 'unity', says won't allow civil war "I appeal to the citizens of Russia, to the personnel of the Armed Forces, law enforcement agencies and special services, to the soldiers and commanders who are now fighting in their combat positions, repelling enemy attacks – they are doing it heroically. I know. Today, I once again spoke with the commanders of all directions. I also appeal to those who, by deceit or threats, were dragged into a criminal adventure, pushed onto the path of a grave crime – an armed rebellion,” Putin said, in his address. ALSO READ | Russia orders Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s arrest after his call for mutiny "This is a battle when the fate of our people is being decided, it requires the unity of all forces, unity, consolidation and responsibility, when everything that weakens us, any strife that our external enemies can use and use to undermine us from the inside must be thrown aside". Putin calls Wagner chief's actions 'stab in the back', 'betrayal' "The actions that split our unity are, in fact, apostasy from our people, from our comrades-in-arms who are now fighting at the front. This is a stab in the back to our country and our people. We will protect both our people and our statehood from any threats, including from internal betrayal, and what we are faced with is precisely betrayal to the cause for which, side by side with our other units and subunits, the fighters and commanders of the Wagner group fought and died,” the Russian president said. "I believe that we will save and defend what is dear and sacred to us. Together with our homeland, we will overcome any trials, we will become even stronger. Everyone who deliberately took the path of betrayal, who prepared an armed rebellion, took the path of rebellion and terrorist methods will suffer inevitable punishment, will answer before the law and before our people,” he added. The Wagner chief is facing accusations of "incitement to armed rebellion" as he asked Russians to support his 25,000 Wagner fighters against Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. Prigozhin has been charged with armed mutiny and can face up to 20 years of imprisonment, as per TASS. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Wagner chief accuses Russia military of bombing its forces "Amid the seriousness of the situation and the threat of escalation of confrontation in the Russian Federation the FSB has opened a criminal case into the fact of a call for an armed rebellion on the part of Yevgeny Prigozhin," the Federal Security Service’s Public Relations Centre said. Russia, which has been engaging with Ukraine in one of the longest wars, is on the brink of civil war and feared a coup as it faced a rebellion from the Wagner group. Amid the escalating situation, an "anti-terrorist operation regime" has been declared in Moscow and all public events have been cancelled. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'This is treason': Putin appeals for 'unity', calls Wagner mutiny 'deadly threat' to Russia