United States&nbsp;officials on Friday (Oct 25) blamed ‘Russian actors’ for a viral video allegedly showing mail-in ballots for Republican presidential nominee&nbsp;Donald Trump being destroyed in&nbsp;Pennsylvania, a key battleground state.

The video shows a man deliberately destroying mail-in ballots for Trump from the state’s Bucks County.

However, the video was declared ‘fake’ on Thursday by the Bucks County board of elections. The board said the envelope and other materials seen in the video were not authentic and didn’t belong to them.

On Friday, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), the FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) released a joint statement, saying the video was a part of the Russian disinformation agenda.

&nbsp;“Russian actors manufactured and amplified a recent video that falsely depicted an individual ripping up ballots in Pennsylvania,” the statement said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjKnur5tKyJAxXNzDgGHYKWEmQQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidential-election-2024-can-you-vote-in-polls-without-a-permanent-address-770905" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidential-election-2024-can-you-vote-in-polls-without-a-permanent-address-770905&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjKnur5tKyJAxXNzDgGHYKWEmQQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">US presidential election 2024: Can you vote in polls without a permanent address?</a>

“This Russian activity is part of Moscow’s broader effort to raise unfounded questions about the integrity of the US election and stoke divisions among Americans,” it added.

Researchers like Darren Linvill, co-director of Clemson University’s Media Forensics Hub, also debunked the video and said it was linked to the Kremlin’s disinformation network known as “Storm-1516”.

<h2>Russia ‘undermining’ integrity of US elections</h2>

The joint statement accused Russia of trying to “undermine trust” in the integrity of the 5 November elections.

The US officials said, however, they were expecting Russia and other foreign actors to ramp up such efforts of interference.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjKnur5tKyJAxXNzDgGHYKWEmQQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidential-election-2024-key-issues-americans-will-be-voting-on-770932" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidential-election-2024-key-issues-americans-will-be-voting-on-770932&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjKnur5tKyJAxXNzDgGHYKWEmQQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">US Presidential Election 2024: Key issues Americans will be voting on</a>

American researchers claim that Storm-1516 has previously engaged in producing fake videos targeting the campaigns of Democratic presidential nominee&nbsp;Kamala Harris and her running mate Tim Walz.

US officials believe that apart from Russia, China and Iran are also trying to influence American elections and fan “divisive narratives.”

A statement by ODNI earlier said, “These actors probably perceive that undermining confidence in the elections weakens the legitimacy of our democracy and consequently makes the United States less capable of effectively pursuing policies that are counter to their interests.”

(With inputs from agencies)

United States officials on Friday (Oct 25) blamed ‘Russian actors’ for a viral video allegedly showing mail-in ballots for Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump being destroyed in Pennsylvania, a key battleground state.

United States officials on Friday (Oct 25) blamed ‘Russian actors’ for a viral video allegedly showing mail-in ballots for Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump being destroyed in Pennsylvania, a key battleground state. The video shows a man deliberately destroying mail-in ballots for Trump from the state’s Bucks County. However, the video was declared ‘fake’ on Thursday by the Bucks County board of elections. The board said the envelope and other materials seen in the video were not authentic and didn’t belong to them. On Friday, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), the FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) released a joint statement, saying the video was a part of the Russian disinformation agenda. “Russian actors manufactured and amplified a recent video that falsely depicted an individual ripping up ballots in Pennsylvania,” the statement said. Also read: US presidential election 2024: Can you vote in polls without a permanent address? “This Russian activity is part of Moscow’s broader effort to raise unfounded questions about the integrity of the US election and stoke divisions among Americans,” it added. Researchers like Darren Linvill, co-director of Clemson University’s Media Forensics Hub, also debunked the video and said it was linked to the Kremlin’s disinformation network known as “Storm-1516”. Russia ‘undermining’ integrity of US elections The joint statement accused Russia of trying to “undermine trust” in the integrity of the 5 November elections. The US officials said, however, they were expecting Russia and other foreign actors to ramp up such efforts of interference. Also read: US Presidential Election 2024: Key issues Americans will be voting on American researchers claim that Storm-1516 has previously engaged in producing fake videos targeting the campaigns of Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris and her running mate Tim Walz. US officials believe that apart from Russia, China and Iran are also trying to influence American elections and fan “divisive narratives.” A statement by ODNI earlier said, “These actors probably perceive that undermining confidence in the elections weakens the legitimacy of our democracy and consequently makes the United States less capable of effectively pursuing policies that are counter to their interests.” (With inputs from agencies)

US officials blame Russian actors for ‘fake’ video showing man destroying mail-in ballots

Georgians voted on Saturday (Oct 26)&nbsp;in elections that will determine the fledgling democracy's European aspirations, amid growing concerns the ruling party is drifting toward Russia.

The parliamentary election pits an unprecedented union of pro-Western opposition forces against the ruling Georgian Dream accused of stifling democracy and pivoting toward Moscow.

Brussels has warned that the vote will determine European Union candidate Tbilisi's chances of joining the bloc.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georgia-supreme-court-rejects-republican-appeal-to-reinstate-last-minute-election-rules-769898">Also read:&nbsp;Georgia Supreme Court rejects Republican appeal to reinstate last-minute election rules</a>

Opinion polls in the country of four million indicate opposition parties could get enough votes to form a coalition to supplant Georgian Dream, controlled by powerful billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili.

"Of course, I have voted for Europe. Because I want to live in Europe, not in Russia. So, I voted for change," said Alexandre Guldani, an 18-year-old student.

Pro-Western President Salome Zurabishvili said the vote would "determine Georgia's future", while the chair of the United National Movement opposition party, Tina Bokuchava, promised a "great day of national victory".

Watch |&nbsp;Georgia Votes In Pivotal Election | EU vs Russia: Which Way Will Georgia Lean?

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/georgia-votes-in-pivotal-election-eu-vs-russia-which-way-will-georgia-lean-770886/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Central Election Commission said it had received 133 reports of violations and Zurabishvili said there were "deeply troubling incidents of violence unfolding at various polling stations".

A video was circulated on social media showing a fistfight between dozens of unidentified men outside a polling station in suburban Tbilisi.

The opposition also shared videos of an alleged ballot stuffing incident in the south-eastern village of Sadakhlo.

"Bidzina Ivanishvili's thugs are desperate to cling onto power and will resort to anything to subvert the election process," Bokuchava said.

"They are stuffing ballot boxes, bullying voters, and beating observers."

Mamuka Mdinaradze, a ruling party leader, rejected her claims as a "provocation" staged by the opposition, while the electoral commission nullified all the votes cast at that precinct.

Georgian Dream says it is confident it can win a commanding majority of the 150-seat parliament, calling for a "maximum mobilisation" of its supporters.

<h2>'Risk of post-electoral turmoil'&nbsp;</h2>

Polls close at 1600 GMT, with exit polls to be issued soon afterward. Preliminary results are expected to start coming in during the night.

Analyst Gela Vasadze at Georgia's Strategic Analysis Centre warned that "if the ruling party attempts to stay in power regardless of the election outcome, then there is the risk of post-electoral turmoil."

Georgian Dream says it wants to win a supermajority that will allow it to pass a constitutional ban on all major opposition parties.

In power since 2012, the party initially pursued a liberal pro-Western policy agenda. But over the last two years, the party has reversed course.

Its campaign has centred on a conspiracy theory about a "global war party" that controls Western institutions and is seeking to drag Georgia into the Russia-Ukraine war.

In a country still scarred by Russia's 2008 invasion, the party has offered voters bogeyman stories about an imminent threat of war, which only the Georgian Dream could prevent.

In a recent TV interview, Ivanishvili painted a grotesque image of the West where "orgies are taking place right in the streets".

<h2>'Crucial test for democracy'&nbsp;</h2>

Georgian Dream's adoption of a controversial "foreign influence" law this spring targeting civil society sparked weeks of mass street protests and was criticised as a Kremlin-style measure to silence dissent.

The move prompted Brussels to freeze Georgia's EU accession process, while Washington imposed sanctions on dozens of Georgian officials.

The ruling party has also mounted a campaign against sexual minorities, following the recent adoption of measures that ban LGBTQ "propaganda", nullify same-sex marriages conducted abroad, and outlaw gender reassignment.

The Kremlin on Friday blasted "unprecedented attempts at Western interference" in the vote.

The latest polls show that the opposition is poised to garner enough ballots to take power.

The potential coalition grouping includes Georgia's main opposition force, jailed ex-president Mikheil Saakashvili's United National Movement (UNM) and Akhali, a recently formed party headed by former UNM leaders.

Along with several smaller parties, they have signed up for a pro-European policy platform outlining far-reaching electoral, judicial, and law enforcement reforms.

They have agreed to form an interim multi-party government to push through the reforms -- if they command enough seats in parliament -- before calling fresh elections.

A poll conducted by US pollster Edison Research shortly before the elections showed 34 per cent of voters would back the Georgian Dream, while the four opposition alliances combined are set to garner 53 per cent of the vote.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Georgians voted on Saturday (Oct 26) in elections that will determine the fledgling democracy's European aspirations, amid growing concerns the ruling party is drifting toward Russia.

Georgians voted on Saturday (Oct 26) in elections that will determine the fledgling democracy's European aspirations, amid growing concerns the ruling party is drifting toward Russia. The parliamentary election pits an unprecedented union of pro-Western opposition forces against the ruling Georgian Dream accused of stifling democracy and pivoting toward Moscow. Brussels has warned that the vote will determine European Union candidate Tbilisi's chances of joining the bloc. Also read: Georgia Supreme Court rejects Republican appeal to reinstate last-minute election rules Opinion polls in the country of four million indicate opposition parties could get enough votes to form a coalition to supplant Georgian Dream, controlled by powerful billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili. "Of course, I have voted for Europe. Because I want to live in Europe, not in Russia. So, I voted for change," said Alexandre Guldani, an 18-year-old student. Pro-Western President Salome Zurabishvili said the vote would "determine Georgia's future", while the chair of the United National Movement opposition party, Tina Bokuchava, promised a "great day of national victory". Watch | Georgia Votes In Pivotal Election | EU vs Russia: Which Way Will Georgia Lean? × The Central Election Commission said it had received 133 reports of violations and Zurabishvili said there were "deeply troubling incidents of violence unfolding at various polling stations". A video was circulated on social media showing a fistfight between dozens of unidentified men outside a polling station in suburban Tbilisi. The opposition also shared videos of an alleged ballot stuffing incident in the south-eastern village of Sadakhlo. "Bidzina Ivanishvili's thugs are desperate to cling onto power and will resort to anything to subvert the election process," Bokuchava said. "They are stuffing ballot boxes, bullying voters, and beating observers." Mamuka Mdinaradze, a ruling party leader, rejected her claims as a "provocation" staged by the opposition, while the electoral commission nullified all the votes cast at that precinct. Georgian Dream says it is confident it can win a commanding majority of the 150-seat parliament, calling for a "maximum mobilisation" of its supporters. 'Risk of post-electoral turmoil' Polls close at 1600 GMT, with exit polls to be issued soon afterward. Preliminary results are expected to start coming in during the night. Analyst Gela Vasadze at Georgia's Strategic Analysis Centre warned that "if the ruling party attempts to stay in power regardless of the election outcome, then there is the risk of post-electoral turmoil." Georgian Dream says it wants to win a supermajority that will allow it to pass a constitutional ban on all major opposition parties. In power since 2012, the party initially pursued a liberal pro-Western policy agenda. But over the last two years, the party has reversed course. Its campaign has centred on a conspiracy theory about a "global war party" that controls Western institutions and is seeking to drag Georgia into the Russia-Ukraine war. In a country still scarred by Russia's 2008 invasion, the party has offered voters bogeyman stories about an imminent threat of war, which only the Georgian Dream could prevent. In a recent TV interview, Ivanishvili painted a grotesque image of the West where "orgies are taking place right in the streets". 'Crucial test for democracy' Georgian Dream's adoption of a controversial "foreign influence" law this spring targeting civil society sparked weeks of mass street protests and was criticised as a Kremlin-style measure to silence dissent. The move prompted Brussels to freeze Georgia's EU accession process, while Washington imposed sanctions on dozens of Georgian officials. The ruling party has also mounted a campaign against sexual minorities, following the recent adoption of measures that ban LGBTQ "propaganda", nullify same-sex marriages conducted abroad, and outlaw gender reassignment. The Kremlin on Friday blasted "unprecedented attempts at Western interference" in the vote. The latest polls show that the opposition is poised to garner enough ballots to take power. The potential coalition grouping includes Georgia's main opposition force, jailed ex-president Mikheil Saakashvili's United National Movement (UNM) and Akhali, a recently formed party headed by former UNM leaders. Along with several smaller parties, they have signed up for a pro-European policy platform outlining far-reaching electoral, judicial, and law enforcement reforms. They have agreed to form an interim multi-party government to push through the reforms -- if they command enough seats in parliament -- before calling fresh elections. A poll conducted by US pollster Edison Research shortly before the elections showed 34 per cent of voters would back the Georgian Dream, while the four opposition alliances combined are set to garner 53 per cent of the vote. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Georgia votes in high stakes election as voters decide between West and Russia

In what many consider to be a make-or-break decision on the country's chances of joining the European Union, Georgians went to the polls on Saturday. Watch in for details!

Georgia Elections: Russia Says West Interfering In Georgia

South Korea has expressed grave concern over Russia's move to ratify its defense treaty with North Korea. This after the lawmakers in Russia's lower house voted 397 to 0 to ratify the treaty. Watch to know more.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine Says North Korean Unit Deployed In Kursk

EU vs Russia: Which Way Will Georgia Lean?

Russian lawmakers on Thursday&nbsp;ratified a pact with North Korea envisioning mutual military assistance, a move that comes as the US confirmed the deployment of 3,000 North Korean troops to Russia.

The lower house of the Russian parliament, the State Duma, voted quickly to endorse the “comprehensive strategic partnership” treaty that Russia's President Vladimir Putin signed with North Korean leader King Jong Un on a visit to Pyongyang in June. The upper house is expected to follow suit soon.

The pact obliges Russia and North Korea to immediately provide military assistance using “all means” if either is attacked. It marked the strongest link between Moscow and Pyongyang since the end of the Cold War.

The US said on Wednesday that 3,000 North Korean troops have been deployed to Russia and are training at several locations, calling the move very serious and warning that those forces will be “fair game” if they go into combat in Ukraine.

Asked at a news conference during the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, whether North Korean troops were inside his country, Putin noted the lawmakers' ratification of the “strategic partnership” with Pyongyang.

“We have never doubted that the North Korean leadership takes our agreements seriously. What and how we will do within the framework of this article (of the agreement) is our business,” he said.

Russia and North Korea have previously rejected assertions by the US and its allies that Pyongyang has given Moscow ballistic missiles and millions of artillery shells for use in Ukraine.

Asked in June whether North Korean troops could fight alongside Russian forces in Ukraine under the pact, Putin said there was no need for that but he also announced for the first time that Russia could provide weapons to Pyongyang.

Observers said that in exchange for military support Moscow could share sophisticated weapons technologies with Pyongyang to help improve its ballistic missile and satellite capabilities.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Russian lawmakers on Thursday ratified a pact with North Korea envisioning mutual military assistance, a move that comes as the US confirmed the deployment of 3,000 North Korean troops to Russia.

Russian lawmakers on Thursday ratified a pact with North Korea envisioning mutual military assistance, a move that comes as the US confirmed the deployment of 3,000 North Korean troops to Russia. The lower house of the Russian parliament, the State Duma, voted quickly to endorse the “comprehensive strategic partnership” treaty that Russia's President Vladimir Putin signed with North Korean leader King Jong Un on a visit to Pyongyang in June. The upper house is expected to follow suit soon. The pact obliges Russia and North Korea to immediately provide military assistance using “all means” if either is attacked. It marked the strongest link between Moscow and Pyongyang since the end of the Cold War. The US said on Wednesday that 3,000 North Korean troops have been deployed to Russia and are training at several locations, calling the move very serious and warning that those forces will be “fair game” if they go into combat in Ukraine. Asked at a news conference during the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, whether North Korean troops were inside his country, Putin noted the lawmakers' ratification of the “strategic partnership” with Pyongyang. “We have never doubted that the North Korean leadership takes our agreements seriously. What and how we will do within the framework of this article (of the agreement) is our business,” he said. Russia and North Korea have previously rejected assertions by the US and its allies that Pyongyang has given Moscow ballistic missiles and millions of artillery shells for use in Ukraine. Asked in June whether North Korean troops could fight alongside Russian forces in Ukraine under the pact, Putin said there was no need for that but he also announced for the first time that Russia could provide weapons to Pyongyang. Observers said that in exchange for military support Moscow could share sophisticated weapons technologies with Pyongyang to help improve its ballistic missile and satellite capabilities. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Russia ratifies military pact with North Korea amid troops deployment row

X owner Elon Musk has been in regular contact with Russian President Vladimir Putin since late 2022, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;

Musk and Putin continued to hold talks into this year, even as the Tesla CEO&nbsp;began to criticise the United States military support for Ukraine and became actively involved in the election campaign of Republican candidate and former US&nbsp;president Donald Trump, according to the Journal's intelligence sources.&nbsp;

The media report&nbsp;came less than two weeks&nbsp;ahead of the&nbsp;US presidential&nbsp;election.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-america-pac-under-fire-for-1-million-giveaway-doj-warns-of-potential-federal-law-violation-770218">Also read:&nbsp;Elon Musk's America PAC under fire for $1 million giveaway; DOJ warns of potential federal law violation</a>

However, Musk's influence extends far beyond politics, through his social media platform X and his tech firm SpaceX. With the help of these platforms, he has megabucks government contracts and high-level security clearance to classified US information.

The Russian president once asked Musk to avoid activating his Starlink satellite internet service over Taiwan as a favour to Chinese President Xi Jinping, report WSJ citing&nbsp;two people who were briefed on the request.&nbsp;

His Starlink satellite internet service highlights a major aspect of Musk's influence. Notably, he gave Ukraine free access to his system after Putin launched his full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Watch |&nbsp;US Election 2024: Musk Makes Controversial Announcement

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-election-2024-musk-makes-controversial-announcement-769415/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Musk's move was lauded as an important tool in Ukraine's ability to fight back against the Russian invasion.&nbsp;However, relations between Musk and Ukrainian authorities cooled down as the&nbsp;war progressed.&nbsp;

The X owner, later, stopped funding the terminals for Ukraine and also prohibited its military's use of Starlink to control drones.&nbsp;

In October 2022, Musk began posting a trail of Kremlin talking points about the war on social media platform X, which he presented as a plan for peace. However, his posts triggered major pushback from top officials in Kyiv and&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

<h2>Kremlin denies report</h2>

Kremlin on Friday (Oct 25)&nbsp;denied the reports of Musk in talks with Putin.&nbsp;"It's all untrue, absolutely false information published in the newspaper," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

X owner Elon Musk has been in regular contact with Russian President Vladimir Putin since late 2022, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal. Musk and Putin continued to hold talks into this year, even as the Tesla CEO began to criticise the United States military support for Ukraine and became actively involved in the election campaign of Republican candidate and former US president Donald Trump, according to the Journal's intelligence sources.

X owner Elon Musk has been in regular contact with Russian President Vladimir Putin since late 2022, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal. Musk and Putin continued to hold talks into this year, even as the Tesla CEO began to criticise the United States military support for Ukraine and became actively involved in the election campaign of Republican candidate and former US president Donald Trump, according to the Journal's intelligence sources. The media report came less than two weeks ahead of the US presidential election. Also read: Elon Musk's America PAC under fire for $1 million giveaway; DOJ warns of potential federal law violation However, Musk's influence extends far beyond politics, through his social media platform X and his tech firm SpaceX. With the help of these platforms, he has megabucks government contracts and high-level security clearance to classified US information. The Russian president once asked Musk to avoid activating his Starlink satellite internet service over Taiwan as a favour to Chinese President Xi Jinping, report WSJ citing two people who were briefed on the request. His Starlink satellite internet service highlights a major aspect of Musk's influence. Notably, he gave Ukraine free access to his system after Putin launched his full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Watch | US Election 2024: Musk Makes Controversial Announcement × Musk's move was lauded as an important tool in Ukraine's ability to fight back against the Russian invasion. However, relations between Musk and Ukrainian authorities cooled down as the war progressed. The X owner, later, stopped funding the terminals for Ukraine and also prohibited its military's use of Starlink to control drones. In October 2022, Musk began posting a trail of Kremlin talking points about the war on social media platform X, which he presented as a plan for peace. However, his posts triggered major pushback from top officials in Kyiv and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Kremlin denies report Kremlin on Friday (Oct 25) denied the reports of Musk in talks with Putin. "It's all untrue, absolutely false information published in the newspaper," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk in 'regular contact' with Russian President Putin since late 2022: Report

U.S Says North Korean Troops Are In Russia. The Russia North Korea Alliance is extending beyond military supplies and ammunition much to the horror of the West and it is now expanding to North Korean boots on the ground fighting for Russia in Ukraine all of which is being greeted by a volley of condemnation from the West. Are North Koreans fighting in Ukraine? The West and Ukrainian President Zelensky are convinced of it and Russian President Vladimir Putin does not deny it when asked to confirm. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Are North Koreans Fighting In Ukraine?

Trade growth between China and Russia has continued to slow after a year of rapid expansion, as settlement becomes a bigger obstacle amid secondary sanctions from the United States over Russia’s war in Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine War: Tracking Russia's Resilience Amid War

In a shocking development, Putin does not deny North Korea sent soldiers to Russia. When asked about satellite images showing North Korean troop movement, Putin gave a sarcastic reply. Earlier, Volodymyr Zelensky said North Korea sent 10,000 soldiers to fight alongside Russia. Ukrainian President called N. Korean troops fighting against Ukraine ‘first step to world war’. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin Doesn't Deny Reports of North Korean Troops In Russia | WION Originals

India supports dialogue and diplomacy, not war: PM Modi at BRICS summit. At the BRICS summit in Russia, PM Modi called for united efforts to tackle terrorism. The Indian leader said the group needs to work together on the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the UN. Watch to know more!

BRICS Summit 2024: PM Modi Calls For Global Unity At 16th BRICS Summit In Russia | WION Originals

US has confirmed that North Korea is sending troops to Russia amid the war in Ukraine. As a result of this confirmation, some European leaders have suggested deploying troops to defend Ukraine. How will this development change the conflict's trajectory? Will this open a new front in the Ukraine war? Will NATO and US allies, like South Korea, get involved?

US Warns Russia, North Korean Troops in Ukraine ‘Fair Game’

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday his relationship with the United States after the presidential elections would depend on what attitude Washington adopts, as he welcomed comments by Donald Trump on his desire to end the Ukraine conflict as "sincere".

But the Kremlin leader struck a hardline tone, warning the West it was an "illusion" to think Russia could be defeated on the battlefield and that any peace deal would have to recognise Russia's control of swathes of Ukrainian territory.

Putin was speaking at the end of the BRICS summit in the city of Kazan, where he had faced calls from some of Russia's most important allies for the fighting in Ukraine to end.

"How Russian-American relations will develop after the election will depend on the United States. If they are open, then we will also be open. And if they don't want it, then fine," Putin told reporters in Kazan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/putin-calls-for-alternative-international-payment-system-to-combat-dollar-dominance-at-brics-meeting-770280">Also read:&nbsp;Putin calls for alternative international payment system to combat dollar dominance at Brics meeting</a>

Relations between the two superpowers have sunk to their lowest since the Cold War amid Moscow's military offensive on Ukraine.

Next month's US election is set to be critical in the course of future ties and the conflict in Ukraine.

Trump has repeatedly expressed skepticism over Washington's multi-billion dollar aid to Ukraine and claimed that if elected he could end the fighting in a matter of hours.

Putin said Trump "spoke about his desire to do everything to end the conflict in Ukraine. I think he is being sincere. Of course, we welcome statements like this, whoever they come from."

<h2>'Realities on the ground'&nbsp;</h2>

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi were among around 20 leaders who gathered for the BRICS summit, the largest diplomatic event in Russia since Putin ordered troops into Ukraine in February 2022.

The Kremlin leader said Moscow was open to considering peace initiatives and welcomed BRICS leaders offering to mediate.

Watch |&nbsp;BRICS Summit 2024: India-China Turn The Page On Strained Ties

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2024-india-china-turn-the-page-on-strained-ties-770288/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

But he said any deal must consider the "realities on the ground" -- a reference to Ukrainian territory controlled by Russian forces.

"We are ready to look at any proposals for peace negotiations that are based on the realities on the ground. We won't accept anything else," he said.

Putin has previously demanded Kyiv effectively capitulate by pulling its troops back as a precondition to ceasefire talks.

And on Thursday he blasted the West for thinking Russia could be defeated on the battlefield.

Moscow's opponents "do not conceal their aim to deal our country a strategic defeat", he said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"I will say directly that these are illusionary calculations, that can be made only by those who do not know Russia's history."&nbsp;

Russia has faced fresh accusations of escalating the conflict this week with the United States, South Korea, NATO and Kyiv all saying North Korea had deployed troops to Russia.

Kyiv said Thursday it had intelligence the soldiers had already been deployed to Russia's western Kursk region, where Ukraine is mounting a cross-border offensive.

Putin refused to confirm or deny the reports on Thursday, instead accusing Ukraine and the West of aggravating the conflict.

<h2>Middle East&nbsp;</h2>

Putin will later sit down for talks with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in the pair's first meeting since April 2022.

The UN chief had pleaded earlier for a "just peace" in Ukraine in a speech delivered in front of Putin.

"We need peace in Ukraine. A just peace in line with the UN Charter, international law, and (UN) General Assembly resolution," Guterres told the summit.&nbsp;

Ukraine has strongly criticised Guterres's decision to meet the "criminal Putin".

Guterres also demanded an "immediate ceasefire" in Gaza, the release of hostages, and an "immediate cessation of hostilities" in Lebanon.

Other world leaders at the summit also called for an end to Israel's wars in Lebanon and Gaza, with Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas saying Israel was trying to starve Gazan civilians and drive them from their territory.&nbsp;

Xi warned about "serious challenges" in the world and said he hoped BRICS countries could be a "stabilising force for peace".

"We need to continue to push for a ceasefire in Gaza, relaunch the two-state solution and stop the spread of war in Lebanon. There should be no more suffering and destruction in Palestine and Lebanon," Xi said.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian slammed the UN Security Council's role in front of Guterres, saying international bodies "lack the necessary efficiency to extinguish the fire of this crisis".

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday his relationship with the United States after the presidential elections would depend on what attitude Washington adopts, as he welcomed comments by Donald Trump on his desire to end the Ukraine conflict as "sincere".

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday his relationship with the United States after the presidential elections would depend on what attitude Washington adopts, as he welcomed comments by Donald Trump on his desire to end the Ukraine conflict as "sincere". But the Kremlin leader struck a hardline tone, warning the West it was an "illusion" to think Russia could be defeated on the battlefield and that any peace deal would have to recognise Russia's control of swathes of Ukrainian territory. Putin was speaking at the end of the BRICS summit in the city of Kazan, where he had faced calls from some of Russia's most important allies for the fighting in Ukraine to end. "How Russian-American relations will develop after the election will depend on the United States. If they are open, then we will also be open. And if they don't want it, then fine," Putin told reporters in Kazan. Also read: Putin calls for alternative international payment system to combat dollar dominance at Brics meeting Relations between the two superpowers have sunk to their lowest since the Cold War amid Moscow's military offensive on Ukraine. Next month's US election is set to be critical in the course of future ties and the conflict in Ukraine. Trump has repeatedly expressed skepticism over Washington's multi-billion dollar aid to Ukraine and claimed that if elected he could end the fighting in a matter of hours. Putin said Trump "spoke about his desire to do everything to end the conflict in Ukraine. I think he is being sincere. Of course, we welcome statements like this, whoever they come from." 'Realities on the ground' Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi were among around 20 leaders who gathered for the BRICS summit, the largest diplomatic event in Russia since Putin ordered troops into Ukraine in February 2022. The Kremlin leader said Moscow was open to considering peace initiatives and welcomed BRICS leaders offering to mediate. Watch | BRICS Summit 2024: India-China Turn The Page On Strained Ties × But he said any deal must consider the "realities on the ground" -- a reference to Ukrainian territory controlled by Russian forces. "We are ready to look at any proposals for peace negotiations that are based on the realities on the ground. We won't accept anything else," he said. Putin has previously demanded Kyiv effectively capitulate by pulling its troops back as a precondition to ceasefire talks. And on Thursday he blasted the West for thinking Russia could be defeated on the battlefield. Moscow's opponents "do not conceal their aim to deal our country a strategic defeat", he said. "I will say directly that these are illusionary calculations, that can be made only by those who do not know Russia's history." Russia has faced fresh accusations of escalating the conflict this week with the United States, South Korea, NATO and Kyiv all saying North Korea had deployed troops to Russia. Kyiv said Thursday it had intelligence the soldiers had already been deployed to Russia's western Kursk region, where Ukraine is mounting a cross-border offensive. Putin refused to confirm or deny the reports on Thursday, instead accusing Ukraine and the West of aggravating the conflict. Middle East Putin will later sit down for talks with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in the pair's first meeting since April 2022. The UN chief had pleaded earlier for a "just peace" in Ukraine in a speech delivered in front of Putin. "We need peace in Ukraine. A just peace in line with the UN Charter, international law, and (UN) General Assembly resolution," Guterres told the summit. Ukraine has strongly criticised Guterres's decision to meet the "criminal Putin". Guterres also demanded an "immediate ceasefire" in Gaza, the release of hostages, and an "immediate cessation of hostilities" in Lebanon. Other world leaders at the summit also called for an end to Israel's wars in Lebanon and Gaza, with Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas saying Israel was trying to starve Gazan civilians and drive them from their territory. Xi warned about "serious challenges" in the world and said he hoped BRICS countries could be a "stabilising force for peace". "We need to continue to push for a ceasefire in Gaza, relaunch the two-state solution and stop the spread of war in Lebanon. There should be no more suffering and destruction in Palestine and Lebanon," Xi said. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian slammed the UN Security Council's role in front of Guterres, saying international bodies "lack the necessary efficiency to extinguish the fire of this crisis". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

BRICS Summit: Putin says ball in US court on Russian-American relations

US says North Korean Troops are in Russia. The Russia-North Korea alliance is extending beyond military supplies and ammunition much to the horror of the West and it is now expanding to North Korean boots on the ground fighting for Russia in Ukraine all of which is being greeted by a volley of condemnation from the West. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Moscow, Pyongyang Rubbish West's Claims

The Democratic Alliance (DA) and the ANC’s Government of National Unity (GNU) relations have once again been rocked by another fiery political difference. This is after the recent comments made by President Cyril Ramaphosa, who had described Russian President, Vladimir Putin, as a “valuable ally” in Kazan.

South Africa: President Ramaphosa's Comments in Kazan Cause Stir in Govt

An Iranian hacking group is currently targeting US election websites and media outlets as Election Day approaches, according to a blog post from Microsoft on Wednesday (Oct&nbsp;23). The research shows that this may be part of a plan for "preparations for more direct influence operations."

While the research of election-related websites occurred back in April, Microsoft analysts have only recently uncovered the activity. Additionally, the hackers reportedly conducted surveillance on major US media outlets in May, as per the tech giant.

Microsoft researchers noted, "Cotton Sandstorm will increase its activity as the election nears given the group's operational tempo and history of election interference." This is concerning given the group's previous attempts to meddle in elections.

A representative for Iran’s mission to the United Nations dismissed the accusations, saying, "Such allegations are fundamentally unfounded and wholly inadmissible." They added, "Iran neither has any motive nor intent to interfere in the US election."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/justin-trudeaus-leadership-in-jeopardy-as-his-own-partys-mps-ask-him-to-resign-by-october-28-770257">Justin Trudeau asked to 'resign by October 28' by his own party MPs</a>

This incident is the latest indication of attempts by hacking groups from Iran, Russia, and China to either sway or monitor the US election as the presidential campaign reaches its final stages.

Back in 2020, Cotton Sandstorm carried out another cyber operation just before the presidential election. Posing as members of the far-right group "Proud Boys," the hackers sent numerous emails to Florida voters, warning them to "vote for Trump or else!"

The group also posted a video on social media, allegedly from hacktivists, showing an election system being probed. Although the operation did not directly affect voting systems, the primary aim was to create confusion, panic, and doubt, according to senior US officials at the time.

After the 2020 election, Cotton Sandstorm launched a separate operation that encouraged violence against US election officials who rejected allegations of widespread voter fraud, Microsoft said.

(With inputs from agencies)

An Iranian hacking group is currently targeting US election websites and media outlets as Election Day approaches, according to a blog post from Microsoft on Wednesday (Oct 23).

An Iranian hacking group is currently targeting US election websites and media outlets as Election Day approaches, according to a blog post from Microsoft on Wednesday (Oct 23). The research shows that this may be part of a plan for "preparations for more direct influence operations." While the research of election-related websites occurred back in April, Microsoft analysts have only recently uncovered the activity. Additionally, the hackers reportedly conducted surveillance on major US media outlets in May, as per the tech giant. Microsoft researchers noted, "Cotton Sandstorm will increase its activity as the election nears given the group's operational tempo and history of election interference." This is concerning given the group's previous attempts to meddle in elections. A representative for Iran’s mission to the United Nations dismissed the accusations, saying, "Such allegations are fundamentally unfounded and wholly inadmissible." They added, "Iran neither has any motive nor intent to interfere in the US election." Also read: Justin Trudeau asked to 'resign by October 28' by his own party MPs This incident is the latest indication of attempts by hacking groups from Iran, Russia, and China to either sway or monitor the US election as the presidential campaign reaches its final stages. Back in 2020, Cotton Sandstorm carried out another cyber operation just before the presidential election. Posing as members of the far-right group "Proud Boys," the hackers sent numerous emails to Florida voters, warning them to "vote for Trump or else!" The group also posted a video on social media, allegedly from hacktivists, showing an election system being probed. Although the operation did not directly affect voting systems, the primary aim was to create confusion, panic, and doubt, according to senior US officials at the time. After the 2020 election, Cotton Sandstorm launched a separate operation that encouraged violence against US election officials who rejected allegations of widespread voter fraud, Microsoft said. (With inputs from agencies)

Microsoft warns Iranian hackers ramping up attacks on US websites in lead-up to election day

The United States has confirmed that North Korean has sent troops to Russia. At least 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been sent to Russia and are training there as Russia increases its aggression against Ukraine.

North Korea's Involvement Escalates Tensions

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Russia. This is the first meeting between the two leaders in five years. Watch this report for more details!

BRICS Summit 2024: India-China Turned The Page On Strained Ties

The United States has warned that North Korean troops who are currently training in Russia would become legitimate military targets if they engage in combat in Ukraine. The White House said that at least 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been sent to Russia and are training there as Russia increases its aggression against Ukraine.

Zelensky Asks North Korea To Not Interfere In War

Vladimir Putin seeks to rival U.S.-led world order with BRICS summit. Two dozen leaders from nations with emerging economies to meet in Russia next week. Kremlin hopes and dominance of BRICS will challenge western ‘hegemony’. BRICS to mark the biggest summit in Russia since the start of its war with Ukraine. Vladimir Putin seeks to show West’s attempts to isolate Moscow over Ukraine have failed. Watch to know more!

BRICS Summit 2024: Putin Seeks To Rival U.S.-Led World Order | WION Originals

NATO has obtained evidence of North Korean military forces being deployed in Russia, a development that is raising concerns about the potential involvement of these troops in the ongoing war in Ukraine. Watch this report for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: NATO Confirms Presence of North Korean Troops in Russia

Russian foreign Ministry summoned Germany's ambassador to protest over a new NATO Naval Command Center on the Baltic Sea. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Moscow Summons German Ambassador Over NATO Baltic Sea

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a highly anticipated meeting on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Kazan in Russia...with both leaders emphasizing their strategic partnership as a stabilizing force amid the chaos. Watch in for more details!

BRICS Summit 2024: Xi & Putin Meet In Kazan, Reaffirming China-Russia Strategic Partnership

russia

Russia, News on Russia, stories on Russia, articles on Russia, Russia stories at Wion, Russia news, Russia latest news