<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated at a potential withdrawal from the Ukrainian grain deal in case Moscow's demands are not met. Black Sea Grain Initiative is a deal that allows the export of Ukrainian grain via the Black Sea. In a reiteration of Russia's tough stance, Putin said that Russia will withdraw from the deal unless its demands are met before the deal's expiration on Monday.</p>

<p>Putin expressed dissatisfaction with the United Nations' handling of the issue and denied receiving any proposals from the UN&nbsp;Secretary-General.</p>

<h2><strong>Putin's statement on possible suspension</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking to state television, Putin stressed that Russia has the option to suspend its participation in the grain deal. He mentioned that if the promises made to Russia are fulfilled, Russia would immediately rejoin the agreement.</p>

<p>"We can suspend our participation in the deal, and if everyone once again says that all the promises made to us will be fulfilled, then let them fulfill this promise. We will immediately rejoin this deal," Putin said.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-will-join-nato-putin-has-lost-the-war-biden-in-helsinki-615245">Ukraine 'will join NATO', Putin has 'lost the war': Biden in Helsinki</a></p>

<p>However, a Kremlin spokesperson later clarified that a final decision on whether to exit the grain deal has not been made.</p>

<h2><strong>Black Sea grain initiative</strong></h2>

<p>The initiative was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey in July 2022, aiming to address the global food crisis exacerbated by Russia's military actions in Ukraine and the blockade of Ukrainian ports.</p>

<p>As part of the deal, the UN officials also agreed to assist Russia in exporting its food and fertiliser to foreign markets. However, Russia claims that the UN has failed to fulfill this commitment.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cocaine-at-white-house-secret-service-ends-probe-without-identifying-suspect-615229">Cocaine at White House: Secret Service ends probe without finding suspect</a></p>

<p>Although Russian food and fertiliser exports are not subject to Western sanctions related to Russia's war in Ukraine, Moscow asserts that restrictions on payments, logistics, and insurance have created significant barriers to shipments.</p>

<h2><strong>Proposed solution and Putin's response</strong></h2>

<p>According to sources cited by Reuters, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has proposed to Putin that he extend the Black Sea grain export deal with Ukraine, and in exchange Russia would be given a greenlight to connect a subsidiary of its agricultural bank to the SWIFT international payment system.&nbsp;One of Moscow's key demands is the reconnection of the Russian agricultural bank, Rosselkhozbank, to the SWIFT network.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russian general says top military brass betrayed soldiers fighting in Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>The EU had cut off the bank's access in June 2022 following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. However, the EU spokesperson stated in May that there were no plans to reinstate Russian banks.</p>

<p>However, Putin stated that he had not received any such message from Guterres</p>

<p>As of 12th July, the last two ships under the agreement were loading cargoes in the Ukrainian port of Odesa before the deadline.</p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated at a potential withdrawal from the Ukrainian grain deal in case Moscow's demands are not met. Black Sea Grain Initiative is a deal that allows the export of Ukrainian grain via the Black Sea.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated at a potential withdrawal from the Ukrainian grain deal in case Moscow's demands are not met. Black Sea Grain Initiative is a deal that allows the export of Ukrainian grain via the Black Sea. In a reiteration of Russia's tough stance, Putin said that Russia will withdraw from the deal unless its demands are met before the deal's expiration on Monday. Putin expressed dissatisfaction with the United Nations' handling of the issue and denied receiving any proposals from the UN Secretary-General. Putin's statement on possible suspension Speaking to state television, Putin stressed that Russia has the option to suspend its participation in the grain deal. He mentioned that if the promises made to Russia are fulfilled, Russia would immediately rejoin the agreement. "We can suspend our participation in the deal, and if everyone once again says that all the promises made to us will be fulfilled, then let them fulfill this promise. We will immediately rejoin this deal," Putin said. Also Read | Ukraine 'will join NATO', Putin has 'lost the war': Biden in Helsinki However, a Kremlin spokesperson later clarified that a final decision on whether to exit the grain deal has not been made. Black Sea grain initiative The initiative was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey in July 2022, aiming to address the global food crisis exacerbated by Russia's military actions in Ukraine and the blockade of Ukrainian ports. As part of the deal, the UN officials also agreed to assist Russia in exporting its food and fertiliser to foreign markets. However, Russia claims that the UN has failed to fulfill this commitment. Also Read | Cocaine at White House: Secret Service ends probe without finding suspect Although Russian food and fertiliser exports are not subject to Western sanctions related to Russia's war in Ukraine, Moscow asserts that restrictions on payments, logistics, and insurance have created significant barriers to shipments. Proposed solution and Putin's response According to sources cited by Reuters, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has proposed to Putin that he extend the Black Sea grain export deal with Ukraine, and in exchange Russia would be given a greenlight to connect a subsidiary of its agricultural bank to the SWIFT international payment system. One of Moscow's key demands is the reconnection of the Russian agricultural bank, Rosselkhozbank, to the SWIFT network. Watch | Russian general says top military brass betrayed soldiers fighting in Ukraine × The EU had cut off the bank's access in June 2022 following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. However, the EU spokesperson stated in May that there were no plans to reinstate Russian banks. However, Putin stated that he had not received any such message from Guterres As of 12th July, the last two ships under the agreement were loading cargoes in the Ukrainian port of Odesa before the deadline. 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. ×

Putin hints at potential withdrawal from Black Sea grain deal

<p>A senior Russian military general operating in southern Ukraine was reportedly fired for questioning the defence ministry’s tactics. Major General Ivan Popovhad accused the military top brass of “betraying” the troops on the battlefield.</p>

<p>He was the commander of the 58th Army that has been fighting in the southern Zaporizhzhia region.</p>

<p>In a voice message on Telegram app, Maj Gen Popov said he was relieved of his duty because he questioned the “lack of counter-battery combat, the absence of artillery reconnaissance stations and the mass deaths and injuries of our brothers from enemy artillery.”</p>

<p>"It was necessary either to keep quiet and be a coward or to say it the way it is," he said, according to BBC.</p>

<p>"I had no right to lie in the name of you, in the name of my fallen comrades in arms, so I outlined all the problems which exist."</p>

<h2><strong>'Sergei Shoigu got rid of me'</strong></h2>

<p>According to CNN, the voice message was shared by a member of the Russian Parliament and former deputy commander of the Southern Military District, Andrey Gurulev.</p>

<p>“I also raised a number of other problems and expressed it all at the highest level frankly and extremely harshly,” Popov was quoted as saying in the message.</p>

<p>He claimed that Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu “got rid of me,”, as he accused the top Kremlin official of treason.</p>

<p>“As many commanders of divisional regiments said today, the servicemen of the armed forces of Ukraine could not break through our army from the front, (but) our senior commander hit us from the rear, treacherously and vilely decapitating the army at the most difficult and tense moment,” Popov said.</p>

<h2>Russian President Putin may visit China to attend Belt &amp; Road Summit in October&nbsp;</h2>

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<p>The 58th Combined Arms Army has been fighting the war in the occupied Berdyansk city.</p>

<h2><strong>Cracks in Russian defences?</strong></h2>

<p>According to reports, their base&nbsp;there at the Dune hotel was hit by a missile attack early Tuesday that killed another Russian general.</p>

<p>A Russian military blogger, Voyenniy Osvedomitel, on Tuesday, revealed that the deputy commander of the Southern Military District, Lt. Gen. Oleg Tsokov, was killed due to the strike by British Storm Shadow cruise missiles.</p>

<p>In his concluding message, Popov said, “Good night, my beloved gladiators, beloved relatives, one family. I had to collect my thoughts, a lot of things happened in the last two days.</p>

<p>“I am always available to you. It is an honour for me to stand with you in the same ranks.”</p>

<h2><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/russians-scrambled-to-withdraw-hundred-billion-rubles-during-wagners-mutiny-615118">Russians scrambled to withdraw hundred billion rubles during Wagner's mutiny</a></h2>

<p>Zaporizhzhia and the eastern Donetsk region have witnessed renewed Ukraine attacks in the wake of its counteroffensive, which was launched over a month ago.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-russian-spy-confirms-phone-call-to-cia-director-following-wagner-revolt-615095">Top Russian spy confirms phone call to CIA director following Wagner revolt</a></p>

<p>However, it has not achieved the desired result due to strong pushback from Russian defensive lines.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, another Russian MP said&nbsp;former Russian commander Gen Sergei Surovikin,&nbsp;who has not been seen in public since the Wagner mutiny, was "resting".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A senior Russian military general operating in southern Ukraine was reportedly fired for questioning the defence ministry’s tactics. Major General Ivan Popovhad accused the military top brass of “betraying” the troops on the battlefield.

A senior Russian military general operating in southern Ukraine was reportedly fired for questioning the defence ministry’s tactics. Major General Ivan Popovhad accused the military top brass of “betraying” the troops on the battlefield. He was the commander of the 58th Army that has been fighting in the southern Zaporizhzhia region. In a voice message on Telegram app, Maj Gen Popov said he was relieved of his duty because he questioned the “lack of counter-battery combat, the absence of artillery reconnaissance stations and the mass deaths and injuries of our brothers from enemy artillery.” "It was necessary either to keep quiet and be a coward or to say it the way it is," he said, according to BBC. "I had no right to lie in the name of you, in the name of my fallen comrades in arms, so I outlined all the problems which exist." 'Sergei Shoigu got rid of me' According to CNN, the voice message was shared by a member of the Russian Parliament and former deputy commander of the Southern Military District, Andrey Gurulev. “I also raised a number of other problems and expressed it all at the highest level frankly and extremely harshly,” Popov was quoted as saying in the message. He claimed that Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu “got rid of me,”, as he accused the top Kremlin official of treason. “As many commanders of divisional regiments said today, the servicemen of the armed forces of Ukraine could not break through our army from the front, (but) our senior commander hit us from the rear, treacherously and vilely decapitating the army at the most difficult and tense moment,” Popov said. Russian President Putin may visit China to attend Belt & Road Summit in October The 58th Combined Arms Army has been fighting the war in the occupied Berdyansk city. Cracks in Russian defences? According to reports, their base there at the Dune hotel was hit by a missile attack early Tuesday that killed another Russian general. A Russian military blogger, Voyenniy Osvedomitel, on Tuesday, revealed that the deputy commander of the Southern Military District, Lt. Gen. Oleg Tsokov, was killed due to the strike by British Storm Shadow cruise missiles. In his concluding message, Popov said, “Good night, my beloved gladiators, beloved relatives, one family. I had to collect my thoughts, a lot of things happened in the last two days. “I am always available to you. It is an honour for me to stand with you in the same ranks.” Also read | Russians scrambled to withdraw hundred billion rubles during Wagner's mutiny Zaporizhzhia and the eastern Donetsk region have witnessed renewed Ukraine attacks in the wake of its counteroffensive, which was launched over a month ago. Also read | Top Russian spy confirms phone call to CIA director following Wagner revolt However, it has not achieved the desired result due to strong pushback from Russian defensive lines. On Wednesday, another Russian MP said former Russian commander Gen Sergei Surovikin, who has not been seen in public since the Wagner mutiny, was "resting". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian top general sacked for questioning defence ministry’s tactics in southern Ukraine

<p>Was it a Freudian slip? During a press briefing on Monday, the US State Department spokesperson made a controversial statement and claimed that the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine has been a "strategic failure" for Ukraine.</p>

<p>Matthew Miller, the department's spokesperson, mistakenly made this assertion not once, but twice, before admitting that he was out of touch due to his absence from the podium for a week.</p>

<h2><strong>The gaffe</strong></h2>

<p>While holding the press briefing on Monday, Miller was asked about the 500 days of the ongoing war in Ukraine and the role of the United Nations' "almost 200 member nations" in the conflict.</p>

<p>In reply, Miller as per the transcript available on the US State Department Website said: "We believe the war has been a strategic failure for Ukraine.&nbsp;The Secretary [of State Antony Blinken] spoke to this in a speech he gave in Helsinki last month, I believe it was."</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-timeframe-for-ukraines-nato-membership-despite-zelenskys-scathing-criticism-of-absurd-delays-614458">No timeframe for Ukraine's NATO membership despite Zelensky's scathing criticism of 'absurd' delays</a></strong></p>

<p>His gaffe was immediately pointed out, with a reporter asking him "A strategic failure for Russia or for Ukraine?".</p>

<p>Thanking the reporter for the correction, the spokesperson once again said that the strategic failure lies with Ukraine.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'm sorry, a – excuse me, a strategic failure for Ukraine. Thank you for the correction."</p>

<p>Watch a video of the press briefing here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">STATE DEPT. SPOX MILLER: "We believe the war has been a strategic failure for Ukraine..."<br />
<br />
PRESS: "Don't you mean 'a strategic failure for Russia?'"<br />
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MILLER: "I'm sorry — excuse me — a strategic failure for Ukraine! Thank you for the correction!" <a href="https://t.co/o7uIpTlBSq">pic.twitter.com/o7uIpTlBSq</a></p>
— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) <a href="https://twitter.com/Breaking911/status/1678469603968557061?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The slip of the tongue by the US State Department spokesperson has ignited a debate about the true nature of Ukraine's war with Russia and the US's role in it.</p>

<h2><strong>The controversy stemming from Miller's gaffe</strong></h2>

<p>Miller's blunder has quickly gained attention on Twitter. Users have begun questioning the US support for Ukraine and are suggesting that Miller's slip of the tongue revealed a deeper truth.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-leader-praises-elon-musk-and-twitter-over-threads-for-freedom-of-speech-614440">Taliban leader praises Elon Musk and Twitter over Threads for 'freedom of speech'</a></strong></p>

<p>Some argue that despite the subsequent correction, the repeated mistake by Miller raises doubts about the US's stance on the conflict. A few Twitter users called for Miller's resignation and questioned the continued financial aid sent to Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>Biden administration's series of blunders</strong></h2>

<p>This incident, as per The Daily Caller, is just one in a series of blunders that have plagued the Biden administration.</p>

<p>President Joe Biden himself recently made an accidental revelation about the shortage of conventional artillery shells in the US military, which he said led to the decision to provide cluster munitions to Ukraine instead.</p>

<p>Speaking to CNN, the US president was defending his turnaround decision to provide deadly cluster munitions to Ukraine and said: "This is a war relating to munitions. And they're (Ukraine) running out of that ammunition, and we're low on it."</p>

<p>Additionally, Biden mistakenly claimed on two occasions within 24 hours that Russian President Vladimir Putin was "losing the war in Iraq" and had become "a bit of a pariah around the world."</p>


Was it a Freudian slip? During a press briefing on Monday, the US State Department spokesperson made a controversial statement and claimed that the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine has been a "strategic failure" for Ukraine.

Was it a Freudian slip? During a press briefing on Monday, the US State Department spokesperson made a controversial statement and claimed that the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine has been a "strategic failure" for Ukraine. Matthew Miller, the department's spokesperson, mistakenly made this assertion not once, but twice, before admitting that he was out of touch due to his absence from the podium for a week. The gaffe While holding the press briefing on Monday, Miller was asked about the 500 days of the ongoing war in Ukraine and the role of the United Nations' "almost 200 member nations" in the conflict. In reply, Miller as per the transcript available on the US State Department Website said: "We believe the war has been a strategic failure for Ukraine. The Secretary [of State Antony Blinken] spoke to this in a speech he gave in Helsinki last month, I believe it was." Also read | No timeframe for Ukraine's NATO membership despite Zelensky's scathing criticism of 'absurd' delays His gaffe was immediately pointed out, with a reporter asking him "A strategic failure for Russia or for Ukraine?". Thanking the reporter for the correction, the spokesperson once again said that the strategic failure lies with Ukraine. "I'm sorry, a – excuse me, a strategic failure for Ukraine. Thank you for the correction." Watch a video of the press briefing here: STATE DEPT. SPOX MILLER: "We believe the war has been a strategic failure for Ukraine..." PRESS: "Don't you mean 'a strategic failure for Russia?'" MILLER: "I'm sorry — excuse me — a strategic failure for Ukraine! Thank you for the correction!" pic.twitter.com/o7uIpTlBSq — Breaking911 (@Breaking911) July 10, 2023 × The slip of the tongue by the US State Department spokesperson has ignited a debate about the true nature of Ukraine's war with Russia and the US's role in it. The controversy stemming from Miller's gaffe Miller's blunder has quickly gained attention on Twitter. Users have begun questioning the US support for Ukraine and are suggesting that Miller's slip of the tongue revealed a deeper truth. Also read | Taliban leader praises Elon Musk and Twitter over Threads for 'freedom of speech' Some argue that despite the subsequent correction, the repeated mistake by Miller raises doubts about the US's stance on the conflict. A few Twitter users called for Miller's resignation and questioned the continued financial aid sent to Ukraine. Biden administration's series of blunders This incident, as per The Daily Caller, is just one in a series of blunders that have plagued the Biden administration. President Joe Biden himself recently made an accidental revelation about the shortage of conventional artillery shells in the US military, which he said led to the decision to provide cluster munitions to Ukraine instead. Speaking to CNN, the US president was defending his turnaround decision to provide deadly cluster munitions to Ukraine and said: "This is a war relating to munitions. And they're (Ukraine) running out of that ammunition, and we're low on it." Additionally, Biden mistakenly claimed on two occasions within 24 hours that Russian President Vladimir Putin was "losing the war in Iraq" and had become "a bit of a pariah around the world."

Freudian slip? US official says, twice, war with Russia 'strategic failure' for Ukraine

During a news conference on Monday, the US State Department declared that the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine had been a "strategic failure" for the latter, causing many to speculate as to whether the statement was a mistake or just the reality. Matthew Miller, the spokesperson, made the error, and the reporters in the briefing room promptly called him out on it.

US State depart spokesman says war has been 'strategic failure' for Ukraine in back-to-back blunders

<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>

<p>&nbsp;</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'

Although, Zelensky failed in his efforts to secure a time frame for Ukraine's membership in NATO, it has made headway in garnering support of the Western allies and 11 nation coalition is set to start training Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets.

NATO nod for training Ukrainian pilots, says 'no membership but military support continues' | WION

Could Wagner rejoin this war? What lies ahead for Wagner and how its relationship with Russia was? Wagner and Russia's relationship has been extremely confusing for the world at large. Wagner Chief has been back in Russia could possibly be rejoining the war.

Wagner Chief meets Russian President, will Putin consider redeploying Wagner? | World DNA

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who's hoping for a breakthrough, he wants a direct yes or no, that's what he came asking for but there has been other plans. NATO's leadership has agreed at its summit in Vilinus that Ukraine's future lies within the alliance.

NATO summit ends with no timeframe for Kyiv, Zelensky accuses of 'showing disrespect' | WION

Ukraine's counter-offensive is still underway the battle for the city of Bakhmut is ongoing along with claims and counterclaims. Kyiv at this moment has reported some gains as it continues with its operations in the Northern and the southern part of Bakhmut. Meanwhile, the Russian sources while acknowledging the clashes have hailed its successful defence of Bakhmut.

Russia-Ukraine War: Diplomacy continues as battlefield heats up

Ukrainian president Volodymr Zelensky has returned empty handed after the NATO countries denied Kyiv's accession to the alliance. What lies ahead for Kyiv?

Ukraine's future is in alliance but no roadmap yet: NATO

Ukraine fails to get a NATO invite | WION Newspoint

India is strengthening its military muscle. Enlocking a multi-billion-dollar defence deal with US. India is shifting its focus towards the West. One of the highlights of PM Modi's recent visit to the U.S. was New Delhi's multi-billion-dollar defence deal. The recent deal is not primarily aimed at shifting reliance on Russian defence equipment or aligning with the West. Instead, analysts emphasise that India’s focus is on developing its own domestic weapons industry.

Why US military deals are not enough to wean India off Russian arms yet

A contingent of military vehicles diverted East on a highway in the direction of a fortified Russian Army base that holds nuclear weapons is a big development which is reported. In a shocking revelation, Ukraine's head of military intelligence said that the Wagner fighter had reached the Ukraine base.

Will Wagner's fighting skills make Putin reverse his decision?

The West hasn't given a concrete answer on Ukraine's NATO bid yet, or about providing aid to the war-torn country. France announces to send Scalp long-range missiles to Ukraine. UK also supplied similar weapons under the name 'storm shadow'.

Sources: First batch of French missiles already in Ukraine

After US President Joe Biden announced his decision to provide cluster munitions to Ukraine, many Congressional Democrats within his own party have voiced their opposition claiming it will cost the US its moral leadership in world affairs.

Top diplomats criticize US President Joe Bidens's move

<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>The year was 1984. Nearly half of all Indians lived in poverty. India was still seven years away from being a free-market economy. Internally, simmering tensions in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab and Assam states were beginning to erupt.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Today’s fifth largest economy of the world was not in an aspirational shape about four decades ago. But Mithun Chakraborty-starrer&nbsp;‘Disco Dancer’ (1982) was a big hit in the Soviet Union with <a href="https://twitter.com/RusEmbIndia/status/1272864543056642049">reportedly</a> 120 million tickets sold.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="A poster of Indian actor Mithun Chakraborty-starrer 'Disco Dancer' in Russian | Twitter/@RusEmbIndia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ca54529c-0670-41c8-a66d-8f7d36d416a0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-07-09T122027.561.png" /></p>

<p><em>A poster of Indian actor Mithun Chakraborty-starrer 'Disco Dancer' in Russian</em> | <em>Twitter/@RusEmbIndia</em></p>

<p>Then on one remarkable day in the spring of 1984, the then Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi appeared on state broadcaster Doordarshan. Over the satellite link emerged Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, the first Indian person in space, who began speaking from a Soviet spacecraft. Alongside him were five other members of the Soyuz T-11 space mission, all Soviet nationals.</p>

<p>Gandhi asked Sharma: “What does India look like from space?”</p>

<p>Sharma replied by quoting poet Iqbal’s famous composition: “<em>Ji main baghair kisi jhijhak se keh sakta hu, saare jahan se achha…</em>” (Without any doubt, better than the whole world.)<br />
<br />
It was one rare moment of collective national pride which the Indians of 1984 witnessed due to New Delhi’s close ties with Moscow.<br />
<img alt="Indian Air Force's Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, flight engineer Gennady Strekalov and commander Yury Malyshev alongside screengrabs of the-then Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's interaction with Rakesh Sharma" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="99837563-b157-41e6-81b1-b53696c0ce06" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-07-09T123411.047.png" /></p>

<p><em>Indian Air Force's Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma (centre), flight engineer Gennady Strekalov (L) and commander Yury Malyshev (R) alongside the screengrabs of the-then Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's interaction with Rakesh Sharma |&nbsp;spacefacts.de/YouTube via Indian National Congress</em></p>

<section>
<p>One wonders how the millions of Indians — after they saw five Soviet nationals sitting beside their country’s first person in space — perceived the Soviets back then, if not as genuine friends of their nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The “generous collaboration” between India and Soviet Union — as Prime Minister Indira Gandhi termed the Soyuz T-11 space mission — was one of the most significant milestones in India's space journey. Rakesh Sharma going to space was&nbsp;the initial leap in the&nbsp;remarkable marathon of accomplishments that the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) heralded in upcoming decades.</p>
</section>

<h2><strong>Moscow’s counter to the Washington-Islamabad-Beijing axis in India’s favour</strong></h2>

<p>India and the Soviet Union signed a comprehensive treaty of ‘Peace, Friendship and Cooperation’ on&nbsp;August 9,&nbsp;1971, the 29th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi-led ‘Quit India Movement’ for India’s freedom from the British.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Months later in December 1971, at the peak of the Bangladesh Liberation War, the then US President Richard Nixon’s administration deployed Task Force 74 of the US Navy’s Seventh Fleet in the Bay of Bengal to prevent India from overrunning Pakistan. In response, the Soviets deployed two groups of cruisers and destroyers as well as a submarine armed with nuclear warheads in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Moscow-Delhi partnership robustly countered the Washington-Beijing-Islamabad axis.</p>

<p>On December 5, 1971, the United States – sidelining the Pakistani military’s ferocious atrocities against people of present-day Bangladesh – made attempts for a UN-sponsored ceasefire. It was vetoed by the Soviet Union, twice.</p>

<p>A day later on December 6, 1971,&nbsp;India recognised Bangladesh as an independent nation.</p>

<p>Exactly 10 years before in 1961, when New Delhi liberated the Indian state of Goa from the colonial occupation of Portugal — a NATO ally — the erstwhile Soviet Union vetoed a UN security council resolution proposed by Portugal that asked India to withdraw its forces from Goa.</p>

<p>Over the decades India's military cooperation with the Soviet Union and then with Russia evolved from a buyer-seller framework to one involving joint research, development and production of advanced defence technologies and systems, reflecting the economic distance New Delhi travelled since its freedom from the British in 1947.</p>

<h2><strong>India-Russia ties: Generational goodwill cultivated over decades</strong></h2>

<p>In the 1970s, the West led by the United States — especially under US President Richard Nixon’s administration — was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/henry-kissinger-a-crooked-legacy-597010">remarkably anti-India</a> and notoriously pro-Pakistan and consciously fostered an Ivy League of jihadist organisations in India’s neighbourhood.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-tapes-reveal-former-us-president-richard-nixons-hatred-towards-indians-325427">New tapes reveal former US president Richard Nixon's 'hatred' towards Indians</a></strong></p>

<p>Indians carry with them a historical memory of a difficult past when economic growth was stagnant, prosperity was scarce and New Delhi consistently felt geopolitically cornered by the West.</p>

<p>During those moments, Indians found the Soviets beside them just like they saw five Soviet nationals alongside Rakesh Sharma on that spacecraft.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indians do not suffer from historical amnesia — a loss of collective national memory about a time — even as they march on to become the world’s third-largest economy in the next five years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Between India and Russia, there is a generational goodwill cultivated over decades that remains least shaken even after Russian President Vladimir Putin’s imposition of the war on Ukraine.</p>

<p>Despite the optics of New Delhi’s opposition to the war in Ukraine, such as a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-condemns-bucha-killings-supports-independent-investigation-468799">strongly-worded</a> “support [for] the call for an independent investigation” into alleged Russian atrocities in the Ukrainian town of Bucha early on during the war, a form of anti-Russia sentiment in New Delhi is almost non-existent.</p>

<p>This was best reflected during Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov’s New Delhi visit in March 2023, when a mostly Indian crowd at Raisina dialogues laughed as Lavrov claimed Russia was “trying to stop the war which was launched against us”. They subsequently applauded when Lavrov asked what the US and NATO were doing in Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya.</p>

<p><img alt="Sergey Lavrov in New Delhi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="67babf3f-c682-4d1a-b10d-a82b98b17c85" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-07-09T131941.720.png" /></p>

<p><em>Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov at Observer Research Foundation's Raisina 2023 dialogue in March 2023 | Mukul Sharma/WION</em></p>

<p>A Russian foreign minister, given Moscow’s scale of offensive in Ukraine, cannot expect such a reception in any other Washington-aligned capital but New Delhi.</p>

<p>(<em><strong>Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer</strong></em>)</p>

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The year was 1984. Nearly half of all Indians lived in poverty. India was still seven years away from being a free-market economy. Internally, simmering tensions in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab and Assam states were beginning to erupt.

The year was 1984. Nearly half of all Indians lived in poverty. India was still seven years away from being a free-market economy. Internally, simmering tensions in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab and Assam states were beginning to erupt. Today’s fifth largest economy of the world was not in an aspirational shape about four decades ago. But Mithun Chakraborty-starrer ‘Disco Dancer’ (1982) was a big hit in the Soviet Union with reportedly 120 million tickets sold. A poster of Indian actor Mithun Chakraborty-starrer 'Disco Dancer' in Russian | Twitter/@RusEmbIndia Then on one remarkable day in the spring of 1984, the then Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi appeared on state broadcaster Doordarshan. Over the satellite link emerged Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, the first Indian person in space, who began speaking from a Soviet spacecraft. Alongside him were five other members of the Soyuz T-11 space mission, all Soviet nationals. Gandhi asked Sharma: “What does India look like from space?” Sharma replied by quoting poet Iqbal’s famous composition: “Ji main baghair kisi jhijhak se keh sakta hu, saare jahan se achha…” (Without any doubt, better than the whole world.) It was one rare moment of collective national pride which the Indians of 1984 witnessed due to New Delhi’s close ties with Moscow. Indian Air Force's Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma (centre), flight engineer Gennady Strekalov (L) and commander Yury Malyshev (R) alongside the screengrabs of the-then Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's interaction with Rakesh Sharma | spacefacts.de/YouTube via Indian National Congress One wonders how the millions of Indians — after they saw five Soviet nationals sitting beside their country’s first person in space — perceived the Soviets back then, if not as genuine friends of their nation. The “generous collaboration” between India and Soviet Union — as Prime Minister Indira Gandhi termed the Soyuz T-11 space mission — was one of the most significant milestones in India's space journey. Rakesh Sharma going to space was the initial leap in the remarkable marathon of accomplishments that the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) heralded in upcoming decades. Moscow’s counter to the Washington-Islamabad-Beijing axis in India’s favour India and the Soviet Union signed a comprehensive treaty of ‘Peace, Friendship and Cooperation’ on August 9, 1971, the 29th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi-led ‘Quit India Movement’ for India’s freedom from the British. Months later in December 1971, at the peak of the Bangladesh Liberation War, the then US President Richard Nixon’s administration deployed Task Force 74 of the US Navy’s Seventh Fleet in the Bay of Bengal to prevent India from overrunning Pakistan. In response, the Soviets deployed two groups of cruisers and destroyers as well as a submarine armed with nuclear warheads in the region. The Moscow-Delhi partnership robustly countered the Washington-Beijing-Islamabad axis. On December 5, 1971, the United States – sidelining the Pakistani military’s ferocious atrocities against people of present-day Bangladesh – made attempts for a UN-sponsored ceasefire. It was vetoed by the Soviet Union, twice. A day later on December 6, 1971, India recognised Bangladesh as an independent nation. Exactly 10 years before in 1961, when New Delhi liberated the Indian state of Goa from the colonial occupation of Portugal — a NATO ally — the erstwhile Soviet Union vetoed a UN security council resolution proposed by Portugal that asked India to withdraw its forces from Goa. Over the decades India's military cooperation with the Soviet Union and then with Russia evolved from a buyer-seller framework to one involving joint research, development and production of advanced defence technologies and systems, reflecting the economic distance New Delhi travelled since its freedom from the British in 1947. India-Russia ties: Generational goodwill cultivated over decades In the 1970s, the West led by the United States — especially under US President Richard Nixon’s administration — was remarkably anti-India and notoriously pro-Pakistan and consciously fostered an Ivy League of jihadist organisations in India’s neighbourhood. Also read | New tapes reveal former US president Richard Nixon's 'hatred' towards Indians Indians carry with them a historical memory of a difficult past when economic growth was stagnant, prosperity was scarce and New Delhi consistently felt geopolitically cornered by the West. During those moments, Indians found the Soviets beside them just like they saw five Soviet nationals alongside Rakesh Sharma on that spacecraft. Indians do not suffer from historical amnesia — a loss of collective national memory about a time — even as they march on to become the world’s third-largest economy in the next five years. Between India and Russia, there is a generational goodwill cultivated over decades that remains least shaken even after Russian President Vladimir Putin’s imposition of the war on Ukraine. Despite the optics of New Delhi’s opposition to the war in Ukraine, such as a strongly-worded “support [for] the call for an independent investigation” into alleged Russian atrocities in the Ukrainian town of Bucha early on during the war, a form of anti-Russia sentiment in New Delhi is almost non-existent. This was best reflected during Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov’s New Delhi visit in March 2023, when a mostly Indian crowd at Raisina dialogues laughed as Lavrov claimed Russia was “trying to stop the war which was launched against us”. They subsequently applauded when Lavrov asked what the US and NATO were doing in Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya. Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov at Observer Research Foundation's Raisina 2023 dialogue in March 2023 | Mukul Sharma/WION A Russian foreign minister, given Moscow’s scale of offensive in Ukraine, cannot expect such a reception in any other Washington-aligned capital but New Delhi. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer) 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.

Putin’s actions in Ukraine do not make Indians anti-Russia. Here’s why

Almost 500 Days since the Russia-Ukraine war broke out and with the war reaching the 500-day mark can we expect some good news coming out of it. Well, the United States seems to be laying the groundwork to end the Russia-Ukraine war as reports come to the forefront. Let's take a look.

Is the US laying the groundwork to end the Russia-Ukraine war?

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Oceangate suspends operations amid safety concerns, Chinese President Xi Jinping says PLA must 'dare to fight', Russia and Ukraine announce prisoner swap, Russian envoy slams council's 'bid to Ukrainize session'.

Oceangate suspends operations amid safety concerns | Xi says PLA must 'dare to fight'

Ukraine's military spy chief Kyrylo Budanov has stated that the threat of a Russian attack on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant is 'receding'. He added that the threat could easily return if the facility remains under occupation by Moscow's forces.

Zaporizhzhia 'nuclear threat' receding': Ukraine Spy Chief Kyrylo Budanov

The United States has once again stood by its vow of as long as it takes Ukraine is all set to receive its first batch of Cluster Munitions. It follows months of internal bickering over the deal. So what are these Munitions? These Munitions are controversial of course and they are banned by most countries in the world. Let's know more in this report...

US Cluster Bombs for Ukraine: Months of internal debate concludes

<p>The United States is struggling to know what is going on in the corridors of power in Moscow and Kyiv as the vast intelligence network faces its most significant test in recent history, according to a cover story by Newsweek magazine, titled 'CIA's blind spot about Ukraine war'.</p>

<p>While the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has been described as 'successful in discreetly playing its part... in moving mountains of information and material in dealing with a diverse set of other countries', the Newsweek report added that all the experts and officials that the publication spoke with&nbsp;'did not dispute' that the CIA 'has had to struggle' in its main task of knowing 'what's going on in the minds of the leaders of Russia and Ukraine'.</p>

<h2><strong>CIA has boots on ground in Ukraine: Report</strong></h2>

<p>A senior intelligence official has been cited as replying to the question of the publication's journalist: "Is the CIA on the ground inside Ukraine?" by saying,&nbsp;"Yes, but it's also not nefarious."</p>

<h2><strong>US is not at war with Russia, but there is a catch</strong></h2>

<p>Intelligence experts cited by Newsweek say that the war in Ukraine is unique since Ukraine is not a US ally but is still being helped by Washington in its war efforts against Russia. Thereby, the publication added, that much of what Washington does to aid Ukraine is kept secret.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-secret-diplomatic-thaw-cia-chief-makes-trip-to-bejing-last-month-599833">A secret diplomatic thaw? CIA chief makes trip to Beijing</a></strong></p>

<p>'And much of what is normally in the realm of the US military is being carried out by the Agency [CIA],' the publication added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's a tricky balancing act: the CIA being very active in the war, while not contradicting the Biden administration's central pledge, which is that there are no American boots on the ground," a second senior intelligence official was anonymously quoted as saying by Newsweek.</p>

<h2><strong>What is the CIA's blind spot?</strong></h2>

<p>The agency has an ample presence in Kyiv and Moscow. Yet it has been unable to prevent an attack on the Nord Stream pipeline and a recent drone <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-moment-when-alleged-ukrainian-drone-was-shot-down-over-putins-kremlin-residence-588572">attack on the Kremlin</a>.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US intelligence CIA was aware months before Nord Stream blasts, says report</strong></p>

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<p>These moments of reckoning during the ongoing war have raised questions on CIA's intelligence responsibilities: 'knowing enough of what the Ukrainians are planning to both influence them and to adhere to their secret agreement with Moscow.'</p>

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The United States is struggling to know what is going on in the corridors of power in Moscow and Kyiv as the vast intelligence network faces its most significant test in recent history, according to a cover story by Newsweek magazine, titled 'CIA's blind spot about Ukraine war'.

The United States is struggling to know what is going on in the corridors of power in Moscow and Kyiv as the vast intelligence network faces its most significant test in recent history, according to a cover story by Newsweek magazine, titled 'CIA's blind spot about Ukraine war'. While the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has been described as 'successful in discreetly playing its part... in moving mountains of information and material in dealing with a diverse set of other countries', the Newsweek report added that all the experts and officials that the publication spoke with 'did not dispute' that the CIA 'has had to struggle' in its main task of knowing 'what's going on in the minds of the leaders of Russia and Ukraine'. CIA has boots on ground in Ukraine: Report A senior intelligence official has been cited as replying to the question of the publication's journalist: "Is the CIA on the ground inside Ukraine?" by saying, "Yes, but it's also not nefarious." US is not at war with Russia, but there is a catch Intelligence experts cited by Newsweek say that the war in Ukraine is unique since Ukraine is not a US ally but is still being helped by Washington in its war efforts against Russia. Thereby, the publication added, that much of what Washington does to aid Ukraine is kept secret. Also read | A secret diplomatic thaw? CIA chief makes trip to Beijing 'And much of what is normally in the realm of the US military is being carried out by the Agency [CIA],' the publication added. "It's a tricky balancing act: the CIA being very active in the war, while not contradicting the Biden administration's central pledge, which is that there are no American boots on the ground," a second senior intelligence official was anonymously quoted as saying by Newsweek. What is the CIA's blind spot? The agency has an ample presence in Kyiv and Moscow. Yet it has been unable to prevent an attack on the Nord Stream pipeline and a recent drone attack on the Kremlin. Also watch | US intelligence CIA was aware months before Nord Stream blasts, says report × These moments of reckoning during the ongoing war have raised questions on CIA's intelligence responsibilities: 'knowing enough of what the Ukrainians are planning to both influence them and to adhere to their secret agreement with Moscow.' 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.

US is aiding Kyiv's war effort through CIA's presence in Ukraine: Report

In the last 24 hours, Ukraine's counter-offensive has escalated in eastern Donetsk and south-eastern Zaporizhzhia regions. Both Russia and Ukraine are trading blame over potential attacks on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Will this lead to a nuclear disaster? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Will the Russia-Ukraine war lead to a nuclear disaster?

<p>The United States seems to be laying the groundwork to end the Russia-Ukraine war, as reports coming to the fore claim that a meeting was held recently between former senior US security officials and Russians close&nbsp;to the Kremlin.</p>

<p>NBC News, quoting sources close to the discussions, reported that a high-level back-channel diplomacy—called Track Two diplomacy in diplomatic parlance— took place in April between Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and senior former US officials in New York.</p>

<p>The former US officials who met Lavrov were Richard Haass, a former diplomat and the outgoing president of the Council on Foreign Relations, Europe expert Charles Kupchan and Russia expert Thomas Graham, both former White House and State Department officials.</p>

<p>In the April meeting, some of the thorniest issues were discussed like the fate of Russian-held territory that Ukraine may never be able to liberate, and the search for an elusive diplomatic solution that is acceptable to both sides, NBC News reported.</p>

<h2><strong>Back-channel diplomacy</strong></h2>

<p>The discussions also pertained to keeping the channels of communication with Russia open where possible and to feel out where there might be room for future negotiation, compromise and diplomacy over ending the war.</p>

<p>The report says that the Biden administration was aware of the secret meeting, but added that it was not conducted at the behest of the US president.</p>

<h2>Zelensky: Russia has planted suspected explosive at the Zaporizhzhia plant</h2>

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<p>The former US officials who met Lavrov later briefed the White House National Security Council about what transpired, two of the sources told NBC.</p>

<p>Apart from Lavrov, the discussions also involved other Russians including academics, leaders from major think tanks and others in the Russian foreign policy sphere believed to be in regular touch with President Vladimir Putin, the sources told NBC.</p>

<p>However, the names of these prominent Russians haven’t been revealed due to safety concerns.</p>

<h2><strong>CIA chief recently held talks with Russia, Ukrainian officials</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The latest development comes days after CNN reported that CIA Director William Burns recently travelled to Ukraine and met with President Volodymyr Zelensky and Ukrainian intelligence officials.</p>

<p>“Director Burns recently travelled to Ukraine, as he has done regularly since the beginning of Russia’s recent aggression more than a year ago,” a US official told CNN.</p>

<p>“As with other trips, the director met with his Ukrainian intelligence counterparts and President Zelensky, reaffirming the US commitment to sharing intelligence to help Ukraine defend against Russian aggression.”</p>

<p>Burns travelled to Kyiv before Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s attempted coup, which was reportedly not a topic of discussion.</p>

<p>Another official told CNN that Burns also spoke to his Russian counterpart, Sergey Naryshkin, after the rebellion and reiterated that the US had nothing to do with it. The Wall Street Journal first reported on the call.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The United States seems to be laying the groundwork to end the Russia-Ukraine war, as reports coming to the fore claim that a meeting was held recently between former senior US security officials and Russians close to the Kremlin.

The United States seems to be laying the groundwork to end the Russia-Ukraine war, as reports coming to the fore claim that a meeting was held recently between former senior US security officials and Russians close to the Kremlin. NBC News, quoting sources close to the discussions, reported that a high-level back-channel diplomacy—called Track Two diplomacy in diplomatic parlance— took place in April between Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and senior former US officials in New York. The former US officials who met Lavrov were Richard Haass, a former diplomat and the outgoing president of the Council on Foreign Relations, Europe expert Charles Kupchan and Russia expert Thomas Graham, both former White House and State Department officials. In the April meeting, some of the thorniest issues were discussed like the fate of Russian-held territory that Ukraine may never be able to liberate, and the search for an elusive diplomatic solution that is acceptable to both sides, NBC News reported. Back-channel diplomacy The discussions also pertained to keeping the channels of communication with Russia open where possible and to feel out where there might be room for future negotiation, compromise and diplomacy over ending the war. The report says that the Biden administration was aware of the secret meeting, but added that it was not conducted at the behest of the US president. Zelensky: Russia has planted suspected explosive at the Zaporizhzhia plant The former US officials who met Lavrov later briefed the White House National Security Council about what transpired, two of the sources told NBC. Apart from Lavrov, the discussions also involved other Russians including academics, leaders from major think tanks and others in the Russian foreign policy sphere believed to be in regular touch with President Vladimir Putin, the sources told NBC. However, the names of these prominent Russians haven’t been revealed due to safety concerns. CIA chief recently held talks with Russia, Ukrainian officials The latest development comes days after CNN reported that CIA Director William Burns recently travelled to Ukraine and met with President Volodymyr Zelensky and Ukrainian intelligence officials. “Director Burns recently travelled to Ukraine, as he has done regularly since the beginning of Russia’s recent aggression more than a year ago,” a US official told CNN. “As with other trips, the director met with his Ukrainian intelligence counterparts and President Zelensky, reaffirming the US commitment to sharing intelligence to help Ukraine defend against Russian aggression.” Burns travelled to Kyiv before Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s attempted coup, which was reportedly not a topic of discussion. Another official told CNN that Burns also spoke to his Russian counterpart, Sergey Naryshkin, after the rebellion and reiterated that the US had nothing to do with it. The Wall Street Journal first reported on the call. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Former US officials held secret meeting with prominent Russians on ending Ukraine war: Report

Everyday we have been hearing about drones causing massive damage in Ukraine. The war just doesn't seem to be coming to a close anytime soon, while Ukraine is looking westwards to amp up its weaponry, it's also equally focussing on private players in the ongoing arms race.

Inside Ukraine's 'tech push' to build drones; how is Ukraine countering Russia's drone threat?

<p>India leaders have a unique voice&nbsp;to stand up for developing countries and the nation can play a unique role in resolving the Ukraine war, said Bridget Brink, the US ambassador to Ukraine on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Briefing a select number of journalists and 'thought leaders' on the 500 days of the Ukraine war, the road ahead and the economic impact, Brink said that America is committed to supporting Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>India's leadership and USA</strong></p>

<p>Recalling Indian Prime Minister Narendra's remarks to Russian President Vladimir Putin, Brink said that "We agree to PM Narendra Modi's message - Now, is not the time of war."</p>

<p>In September of last year, speaking to the Russian leader on the sidelines of the SCO Heads of State Council summit in Uzbekistan, the Indian leader said that "I know today's time is not a time for war," and stressed the importance of "democracy and diplomacy and dialogue".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-shares-video-of-putin-with-a-young-fan-attempts-to-repaint-russian-president-as-caring-612359">Kremlin shares video of Putin with a young fan, attempts to repaint Russian President as 'caring'</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking about USA's commitment to supporting Ukraine, the ambassador said that nearly 20 per cent of Ukraine's territory remains occupied.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine and the Black Sea Grain Initiative</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking about the Black Sea Grain Initiative, Brink said that Ukraine is working hard to keep grain exports flowing to the world.</p>

<p>As per the ambassador, Russia is blocking tonnes of grain, which is further exacerbating food prices globally.</p>

<p>"I have been to Black Sea Ports where ships loaded with thousands of tonnes of grains are blocked by Russia from sailing to markets to lower the food price in the world," she said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-xi-jinping-personally-warn-vladimir-putin-against-nuclear-attack-in-ukraine-612226">Did Xi Jinping personally warn Vladimir Putin against nuclear attack in Ukraine?</a></strong></p>

<p>Brink further remarked that she has witnessed Kyiv's attempts "to expand Black Sea Grain Initiative" and said that the USA is supporting the nation in this.</p>

<p>She further quoted the World Food Programme and said that globally, "345 million people are facing high levels of food insecurity," the majority of whom are in Africa and the Middle East.</p>

<p>"Ukraine food exports are vital to the world economy," she said.</p>

<p>Brink said that Russia also benefits from these Black Sea initiatives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Its grain exports are now at in some cases above pre-war level and yet Russia is slowing inspection of ships and threatening to withdraw from the initiative after July 18 as the initiative became more important than ever," she said.</p>

<h2><strong>India's role</strong></h2>

<p>As per the US ambassador, Indian leadership can play an important role here.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"India leaders have a unique voice to stand up for developing countries and the expansion of the Black Sea Initiative," said Brink.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The diplomat said that New Delhi and Washington share ideals of freedom and democracy and that India understands the importance of freedom and territorial integrity.</p>

<p>She further added that Indian leaders have spoken about these principles in terms of the threat posed by neighbouring countries with rising ambitions and no respect for territorial integrity.</p>

<p>"India's aspirations of global leadership reflect the spirit needed for a just system," she said, adding that the nation's aspiration for global leadership is evident through its G20 theme "One Earth, One Family, One Future".</p>

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India leaders have a unique voice to stand up for developing countries and the nation can play a unique role in resolving the Ukraine war, said Bridget Brink, the US ambassador to Ukraine on Wednesday.

India leaders have a unique voice to stand up for developing countries and the nation can play a unique role in resolving the Ukraine war, said Bridget Brink, the US ambassador to Ukraine on Wednesday. Briefing a select number of journalists and 'thought leaders' on the 500 days of the Ukraine war, the road ahead and the economic impact, Brink said that America is committed to supporting Ukraine. India's leadership and USA Recalling Indian Prime Minister Narendra's remarks to Russian President Vladimir Putin, Brink said that "We agree to PM Narendra Modi's message - Now, is not the time of war." In September of last year, speaking to the Russian leader on the sidelines of the SCO Heads of State Council summit in Uzbekistan, the Indian leader said that "I know today's time is not a time for war," and stressed the importance of "democracy and diplomacy and dialogue". Also read | Kremlin shares video of Putin with a young fan, attempts to repaint Russian President as 'caring' Talking about USA's commitment to supporting Ukraine, the ambassador said that nearly 20 per cent of Ukraine's territory remains occupied. Ukraine and the Black Sea Grain Initiative Speaking about the Black Sea Grain Initiative, Brink said that Ukraine is working hard to keep grain exports flowing to the world. As per the ambassador, Russia is blocking tonnes of grain, which is further exacerbating food prices globally. "I have been to Black Sea Ports where ships loaded with thousands of tonnes of grains are blocked by Russia from sailing to markets to lower the food price in the world," she said. Also read | Did Xi Jinping personally warn Vladimir Putin against nuclear attack in Ukraine? Brink further remarked that she has witnessed Kyiv's attempts "to expand Black Sea Grain Initiative" and said that the USA is supporting the nation in this. She further quoted the World Food Programme and said that globally, "345 million people are facing high levels of food insecurity," the majority of whom are in Africa and the Middle East. "Ukraine food exports are vital to the world economy," she said. Brink said that Russia also benefits from these Black Sea initiatives. "Its grain exports are now at in some cases above pre-war level and yet Russia is slowing inspection of ships and threatening to withdraw from the initiative after July 18 as the initiative became more important than ever," she said. India's role As per the US ambassador, Indian leadership can play an important role here. "India leaders have a unique voice to stand up for developing countries and the expansion of the Black Sea Initiative," said Brink. The diplomat said that New Delhi and Washington share ideals of freedom and democracy and that India understands the importance of freedom and territorial integrity. She further added that Indian leaders have spoken about these principles in terms of the threat posed by neighbouring countries with rising ambitions and no respect for territorial integrity. "India's aspirations of global leadership reflect the spirit needed for a just system," she said, adding that the nation's aspiration for global leadership is evident through its G20 theme "One Earth, One Family, One Future". 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.

India's 'unique voice' key to resolving Ukraine conflict, says US ambassador to Kyiv

The UK and Poland have signed a new partnership deal to deepen ties in Foreign Policy and defence cooperation. The meeting was attended by the UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly and Defence Secretary Ben Wallace.

UK-Poland leaders discuss Ukraine, security; sign deal to deepen ties | World News | WION

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - Moscow signals end to Black Sea Deal, Russian bombers fly over Bering Sea, South Africa: Public outrage over public brutality, Russia-Ukraine War set to complete 500 days, Russian bombers fly over Bering Sea.

Moscow signals end to Black Sea Deal | Russian bombers fly over Bering Sea | WION Speed News

A war which many thought was unimaginable in modern Europe is set to complete 500 days today. After many twists and turns through these 15 months, the Russia-Ukraine war is still raging, taking heavy toll on the lives and the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands.

Russia-Ukraine War to complete 500 days: Both sides scramble for more war resources | WION

<p>The Russia-Ukraine war is well into its second year and the man credited for the death and destruction is the nation's President Vladimir Putin. Amid international condemnation triggered by the conflict, on Tuesday, the Kremlin released a video that seems to be designed to portray the leader as caring and concerned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the video, President Putin is joined by an eight-year-old Russian girl seeking a budget grant from Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/europe/dangerous-provocations-by-russia-at-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-zelensky-to-macron-612025">Zelensky accuses Russia of ‘dangerous provocations’ at nuclear plant, Moscow denies</a></strong></p>

<p>Released in the aftermath of last month's brief armed mutiny, the video, as per Reuters, also attempts to show that Putin remains in control.</p>

<h2><strong>A bizarre call</strong></h2>

<p>The video which was released by the Kremlin shows Putin welcoming the girl, eight-year-old Raisat Akipova. It featured a bizarre call, in which the child asks the Russian finance minister for a grant for her home region of Dagestan, which is situated in Russia's North Caucasus.</p>

<p>As per Reuters, initially, Anton Siluanov seemed bemused by the girl's demands and failed to respond to her greetings. However, he soon agrees to extra funding of five billion roubles for her home region in Russia's south.</p>

<p>"Excellent!" responded the Russian President. He then tells the girl: "We've got five billion roubles for Dagestan". Five billion roubles is around 55.6 million USD.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/eye-of-the-beholder-chinese-man-creates-website-rating-attractiveness-of-university-students-612289">'Eye of the beholder?': Chinese man detained for creating website rating attractiveness of university students</a></strong></p>

<p>A similar call was placed to Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin. The video shows Putin chuckling with amusement during the conversations.</p>

<p>Later, the little girl holding a bouquet of flowers thanked Siluanov when prompted by the Russian president.</p>

<p>Reuters reports that Putin told Raisat that he had invited her and her parents to Moscow because a picture of her in tears after failing to see him on his Dagestan trip had distressed the leader.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="ru">Владимир Путин встретился в Кремле с девочкой из Дербента, которая очень расстроилась, что не увидела его, когда президент был в Дагестане.<br />
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Глава государства провел для девочки экскурсию по Кремлю, позволил посидеть в своем кресле и вместе с ней позвонил Мишустину и Силуанову. <a href="https://t.co/9Guf6kTWue">pic.twitter.com/9Guf6kTWue</a></p>
— Газета.Ru (@GazetaRu) <a href="https://twitter.com/GazetaRu/status/1676270212222525470?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Rebuilding trust or saving face?</strong></h2>

<p>The little girl's visit as per Reuters is a sequel to Putin's visit to Dagestan last week where he was seen mingling with a large crowd of people.</p>

<p>Kremlin has been citing this as evidence of the Russian President's "astounding" support in the nation and comes just days after a mutiny by mercenary group Wagner made the headlines. The mutiny had prompted warnings of the risk of civil war in Russia.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Russia-Ukraine war is well into its second year and the man credited for the death and destruction is the nation's President Vladimir Putin. Amid international condemnation triggered by the conflict, on Tuesday, the Kremlin released a video that seems to be designed to portray the leader as caring and concerned.

The Russia-Ukraine war is well into its second year and the man credited for the death and destruction is the nation's President Vladimir Putin. Amid international condemnation triggered by the conflict, on Tuesday, the Kremlin released a video that seems to be designed to portray the leader as caring and concerned. In the video, President Putin is joined by an eight-year-old Russian girl seeking a budget grant from Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov. Also read | Zelensky accuses Russia of ‘dangerous provocations’ at nuclear plant, Moscow denies Released in the aftermath of last month's brief armed mutiny, the video, as per Reuters, also attempts to show that Putin remains in control. A bizarre call The video which was released by the Kremlin shows Putin welcoming the girl, eight-year-old Raisat Akipova. It featured a bizarre call, in which the child asks the Russian finance minister for a grant for her home region of Dagestan, which is situated in Russia's North Caucasus. As per Reuters, initially, Anton Siluanov seemed bemused by the girl's demands and failed to respond to her greetings. However, he soon agrees to extra funding of five billion roubles for her home region in Russia's south. "Excellent!" responded the Russian President. He then tells the girl: "We've got five billion roubles for Dagestan". Five billion roubles is around 55.6 million USD. Also read | 'Eye of the beholder?': Chinese man detained for creating website rating attractiveness of university students A similar call was placed to Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin. The video shows Putin chuckling with amusement during the conversations. Later, the little girl holding a bouquet of flowers thanked Siluanov when prompted by the Russian president. Reuters reports that Putin told Raisat that he had invited her and her parents to Moscow because a picture of her in tears after failing to see him on his Dagestan trip had distressed the leader. Владимир Путин встретился в Кремле с девочкой из Дербента, которая очень расстроилась, что не увидела его, когда президент был в Дагестане. Глава государства провел для девочки экскурсию по Кремлю, позволил посидеть в своем кресле и вместе с ней позвонил Мишустину и Силуанову. pic.twitter.com/9Guf6kTWue — Газета.Ru (@GazetaRu) July 4, 2023 × Rebuilding trust or saving face? The little girl's visit as per Reuters is a sequel to Putin's visit to Dagestan last week where he was seen mingling with a large crowd of people. Kremlin has been citing this as evidence of the Russian President's "astounding" support in the nation and comes just days after a mutiny by mercenary group Wagner made the headlines. The mutiny had prompted warnings of the risk of civil war in Russia. (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.

Kremlin shares video of Putin with a young fan, attempts to repaint Russian President as 'caring'

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Russia has said that Ukraine attacked Moscow with at least five roles that were all either shot down or jammed. Reports suggest one of the capital's main airports had rerouted flights for several hours. The Russian Defence Ministry said that four Ukrainian drones were shot down by Moscow's air defences while the fifth one was jammed and crashed into the Moscow region. No injuries have been reported in the attack.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine attacked Moscow with at least five drones

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