Russia’s former transport minister, Roman Starovoit, was found dead in his car on Monday (July 07), shortly after being dismissed by President Vladimir Putin. He had a gunshot wound, and preliminary findings suggest he died by suicide, according to Russia’s Investigative Committee. “Today, in the Odintsovo district [of Moscow]… Roman Vladimirovich Starovoit was found in his car with a gunshot wound,” a spokesperson told state-run TASS news agency. Officials are still examining the scene, but early indications point to suicide.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-60-000-to-kill-a-scientist-150-000-for-netanyahu-inside-iran-s-failed-spy-network-in-israel-how-did-it-operate-1751886463920">'$60,000 to kill a scientist, $150,000 for Netanyahu': Inside Iran’s failed spy network in Israel —&nbsp;How did&nbsp;it&nbsp;operate?</a><h2>Who was Roman Starovoit?</h2>Roman Starovoit had only been in his role as transport minister since May 2024, having taken office after Putin began a new six-year term as president. Before that, he served as the governor of Russia’s Kursk region for nearly five years. His leadership in Kursk came under heavy criticism last year when Ukrainian forces made a surprise incursion into the region. It took months of intense fighting before Russian troops regained control, leaving widespread destruction behind.<h2>Putin’s decree gave no reason for sacking</h2>Earlier on Monday, the Kremlin released a decree announcing Starovoit’s removal from the transport ministry but did not provide any reasons for the dismissal. He will be replaced by Andrei Nikitin, the current deputy transport minister, who will now take over as acting minister.When asked whether Putin’s decision showed a loss of trust in Starovoit, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov replied, “Loss of trust is mentioned if there is a loss of trust. There is no such wording in the [Kremlin] decree.”<h2>Was the dismissal linked to corruption?</h2>Some political analysts believe the dismissal may be linked to a corruption probe in the Kursk region, where Starovoit was previously governor. Russian newspaper reports, cited by the Moscow Times, claimed the decision to remove him had been made “several months ago”.Several high-ranking officials, including Starovoit’s successor Alexei Smirnov, have already been arrested in connection with the alleged misuse of public funds meant for building fortifications along the Ukrainian border.Smirnov and his deputy are accused of embezzling 1 billion rubles (around $12.7 million), with investigators claiming the funds were diverted from defence construction efforts in Kursk. Political analyst Yevgeny Minchenko, also cited by the Moscow Times, called Starovoit’s dismissal “predictable”, saying, “The Kursk region situation has caught up with him.”

Roman Starovoit had only been in his role as transport minister since May 2024, having taken office after Putin began a new six-year term as president. Before that, he served as the governor of Russia’s Kursk region for nearly five years.

Russia’s former transport minister, Roman Starovoit, was found dead in his car on Monday (July 07), shortly after being dismissed by President Vladimir Putin. He had a gunshot wound, and preliminary findings suggest he died by suicide, according to Russia’s Investigative Committee. “Today, in the Odintsovo district [of Moscow]… Roman Vladimirovich Starovoit was found in his car with a gunshot wound,” a spokesperson told state-run TASS news agency. Officials are still examining the scene, but early indications point to suicide. Also read: '$60,000 to kill a scientist, $150,000 for Netanyahu': Inside Iran’s failed spy network in Israel — How did it operate? Who was Roman Starovoit? Roman Starovoit had only been in his role as transport minister since May 2024, having taken office after Putin began a new six-year term as president. Before that, he served as the governor of Russia’s Kursk region for nearly five years. His leadership in Kursk came under heavy criticism last year when Ukrainian forces made a surprise incursion into the region. It took months of intense fighting before Russian troops regained control, leaving widespread destruction behind. Putin’s decree gave no reason for sacking Earlier on Monday, the Kremlin released a decree announcing Starovoit’s removal from the transport ministry but did not provide any reasons for the dismissal. He will be replaced by Andrei Nikitin, the current deputy transport minister, who will now take over as acting minister. When asked whether Putin’s decision showed a loss of trust in Starovoit, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov replied, “Loss of trust is mentioned if there is a loss of trust. There is no such wording in the [Kremlin] decree.” Was the dismissal linked to corruption? Some political analysts believe the dismissal may be linked to a corruption probe in the Kursk region, where Starovoit was previously governor. Russian newspaper reports, cited by the Moscow Times, claimed the decision to remove him had been made “several months ago”. Several high-ranking officials, including Starovoit’s successor Alexei Smirnov, have already been arrested in connection with the alleged misuse of public funds meant for building fortifications along the Ukrainian border. Smirnov and his deputy are accused of embezzling 1 billion rubles (around $12.7 million), with investigators claiming the funds were diverted from defence construction efforts in Kursk. Political analyst Yevgeny Minchenko, also cited by the Moscow Times, called Starovoit’s dismissal “predictable”, saying, “The Kursk region situation has caught up with him.”

Roman Starovoit had only been in his role as transport minister since May 2024, having taken office after Putin began a new six-year term as president. Before that, he served as the governor of Russia’s Kursk region for nearly five years.

'Corruption, money embezzlement': Why did Putin fire Roman Starovoit? Ex-Russian minister who ‘died by suicide’

Russia's former transport minister Roman Starovoyt killed himself Monday (July 7), just hours after being fired from job by President Vladimir Putin, reported AFP, citing Russian news agencies. Starovoyt shot himself in a Moscow suburb after the dismissal and his body was found in his car, according to preliminary investigations. Click on the headlines to know more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sacked-by-putin-russian-transport-minister-kills-himself-hours-later-1751897152949">Sacked by Putin, former Russian transport minister kills himself hours later</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250707/image-1751897666701.jpg?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Sacked by Putin, former Russian transport minister kills himself hours later"></figure>Russia's former transport minister Roman Starovoyt killed himself Monday (July 7), just hours after being fired from job by President Vladimir Putin, reported AFP, citing Russian news agencies. Starovoyt shot himself in a Moscow suburb after the dismissal and his body was found in his car, according to preliminary investigations.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-s-no-one-s-been-arrested-o-clock-elon-musk-slams-trump-s-fbi-and-doj-over-epstein-memo-1751899376879">‘It’s no-one’s-been-arrested-o’clock’: Elon Musk slams Trump's FBI and DOJ over Epstein memo</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250707/image-1751899627856.png?rect=(0,240,1440,1080)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="‘It’s no-one’s-been-arrested-o’clock’: Elon Musk slams Trump's FBI and DOJ over Epstein memo"></figure>Elon Musk led a wave of anger from Trump supporters after the FBI and Justice Department officially ruled out the existence of a so-called “Epstein client list”. A memo obtained by Axios revealed that federal investigators found no evidence that Jeffrey Epstein blackmailed powerful people or kept a list of clients. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jyoti-malhotra-arrested-for-espionage-during-operation-sindoor-was-guest-of-kerala-tourism-drive-reveals-rti-1751895698925">Jyoti Malhotra, arrested for espionage during Operation Sindoor, was guest of Kerala tourism drive, reveals RTI</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250707/image-1751895972253.jpg?rect=(0,0,752,564)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Jyoti Malhotra, arrested for espionage during Operation Sindoor, was guest of Kerala tourism drive, reveals RTI"></figure>Jyoti Malhotra, the travel vlogger from Haryana's Sirsa held on alleged spying charges, was the Kerala government's guest in a campaign to promote tourism and visited the southern state during its influencer outreach initiative. According to a report published in Mathrubhumi, it has been revealed through an Right To Information (RTI) Act that the Kerala government sponsored the trip of 41 influencers selected to give a boost to the southern state as a global tourist destination. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-they-tried-to-kill-me-iran-s-president-says-israel-tried-to-assassinate-him-during-12-day-war-1751897984890">‘They tried to kill me’: Iran’s president says Israel tried to assassinate him during 12-day war</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250707/image-1751898367919.jpg?rect=(0,541,4270,3202)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="‘They tried to kill me’: Iran’s president says Israel tried to assassinate him during 12-day war"></figure>Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has accused Israel of trying to assassinate him during last month’s intense 12-day conflict between the two countries. Speaking in an interview with US media figure Tucker Carlson, Pezeshkian said, “They did try, yes. They acted accordingly, but they failed.” <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mns-leader-s-drunk-shirtless-son-abused-after-hitting-my-car-claims-mumbai-woman-watch-1751897241939">MNS leader’s drunk, shirtless son abused after hitting my car, claims Mumbai woman | Watch</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250707/image-1751897996096.jpg?rect=(0,44,1218,914)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="MNS leader’s drunk, shirtless son abused after hitting my car, claims Mumbai woman | Watch"></figure>A Mumbai woman has alleged that Rahil Javed Shaikh, son of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Javed Shaikh, hit her car in a drunk state and then hurled expletives at her. The woman, identified as Marathi social media influencer Rajshree More, lodged a police complaint and shared a video of the incident on social media. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/plant-trees-get-3-lakh-this-indian-state-rolls-out-new-scheme-for-women-here-s-how-to-apply-1751885884448">Plant trees, get ₹3 Lakh! This Indian state rolls out new scheme for women. Here's how to apply</a><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250707/image-1751885924229.jpg?rect=(0,133,534,400)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Plant trees, get ₹3 Lakh! This Indian state rolls out new scheme for women. Here's how to apply">The Madhya Pradesh state government has made a significant move to enhance the production of fruits and provide new job opportunities for women. The state government will implement the 'Ek Bagiya Maa Ke Naam' scheme in the state from August 15, 2025. Under this, women belonging to self-help groups (SHGs) will be able to plant a garden of fruit trees on their land. The cost of preparing this garden will be done by the state government. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/foreign-terrorist-designation-for-syria-s-hts-revoked-by-us-know-what-is-hayat-tahrir-al-sham-1751903760543">Foreign terrorist designation for Syria's HTS revoked by US, Know what is Hayat Tahrir al-Sham</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250707/image-1751904407135.jpg?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Foreign terrorist designation for Syria's HTS revoked by US, Know what is Hayat Tahrir al-Sham"></figure>The United States has revoked the foreign terrorist organisation designation for Syria-based al-Nusrah Front, also known as Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a memo published online on Monday read. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio signed the memo dated June 23 before being published in a preview of the Federal Registe. It was officially published on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/12-turkish-soldiers-die-of-methane-poisoning-in-iraq-cave-while-looking-for-fallen-soldier-s-body-1751901118361">12 Turkish soldiers die of methane poisoning in Iraq cave while looking for fallen soldier’s body</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250707/image-1751901499507.jpg?rect=(0,236,1258,942)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="12 Turkish soldiers die of methane poisoning in Iraq cave while looking for fallen soldier’s body"></figure>The defence ministry of Turkey said on Monday that a dozen Turkish soldiers died of methane gas poisoning while searching a cave in northern Iraq for remains of a fellow soldier killed by Kurdish militants three years ago. The defence ministry gave an initial death toll of eight but later raised it to 12. “Four others of our heroic comrades in arms, affected by methane gas, have died ... bringing the total number of victims to 12,” the ministry said on X.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/on-rishab-shetty-s-birthday-kantara-chapter-1-new-poster-unveiled-1751898515216">On Rishab Shetty’s birthday, Kantara: Chapter 1 new poster unveiled</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250707/image-1751898707627.jfif?rect=(493,0,2285,1714)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="On Rishab Shetty’s birthday, Kantara: Chapter 1 new poster unveiled"></figure>The team of Kantara: Chapter 1 had a special gift for fans of Rishab Shetty. On Monday, as Rishab Shetty celebrated his birthday, the makers released a poster of the film, revealing a crucial point in the film. The poster revealed that in Kantara: Chapter 1, Rishab Shetty will play a warrior. The film, which has faced a few setbacks in the recent past, seems to be still on schedule and will be released as planned. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-wimbledon-tailoring-the-traditions-and-prestige-to-attract-younger-audience-1751891623539">Wimbledon 'tailoring the traditions and prestige' to attract younger audience</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250707/image-1751891899548.jpg?zoom=0.8&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Wimbledon 'tailoring the traditions and prestige' to attract younger audience"></figure>Wimbledon 2025 - year's third tennis grand slam and arguably the biggest in stature thanks to all-white dress code, royal presence and fans dressing up to best, is trying to attract younger audience. To support the bid, Wimbledon's social media account has been really active since it started on June 30. The posts, nearly 150 on TikTok and more than 200 on Instagram, already have gained the Championship 300,000 followers in the first week itself. The posts are not only about a brilliant shot by Novak Djokovic or an on court interview of a player after the win, but everything ranging from a dance routine to old moments.

Top 10 world news Russian minister kills himself after Putin sacks him Musk slams Trumps FBI and DOJ and more

Russia's former transport minister Roman Starovoyt killed himself Monday (July 7), just hours after being fired from job by President Vladimir Putin, reported AFP, citing Russian news agencies. Starovoyt shot himself in a Moscow suburb after the dismissal and his body was found in his car, according to preliminary investigations. Click on the headlines to know more Sacked by Putin, former Russian transport minister kills himself hours later Russia's former transport minister Roman Starovoyt killed himself Monday (July 7), just hours after being fired from job by President Vladimir Putin, reported AFP, citing Russian news agencies. Starovoyt shot himself in a Moscow suburb after the dismissal and his body was found in his car, according to preliminary investigations. ‘It’s no-one’s-been-arrested-o’clock’: Elon Musk slams Trump's FBI and DOJ over Epstein memo Elon Musk led a wave of anger from Trump supporters after the FBI and Justice Department officially ruled out the existence of a so-called “Epstein client list”. A memo obtained by Axios revealed that federal investigators found no evidence that Jeffrey Epstein blackmailed powerful people or kept a list of clients. Jyoti Malhotra, arrested for espionage during Operation Sindoor, was guest of Kerala tourism drive, reveals RTI Jyoti Malhotra, the travel vlogger from Haryana's Sirsa held on alleged spying charges, was the Kerala government's guest in a campaign to promote tourism and visited the southern state during its influencer outreach initiative. According to a report published in Mathrubhumi, it has been revealed through an Right To Information (RTI) Act that the Kerala government sponsored the trip of 41 influencers selected to give a boost to the southern state as a global tourist destination. ‘They tried to kill me’: Iran’s president says Israel tried to assassinate him during 12-day war Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has accused Israel of trying to assassinate him during last month’s intense 12-day conflict between the two countries. Speaking in an interview with US media figure Tucker Carlson, Pezeshkian said, “They did try, yes. They acted accordingly, but they failed.” MNS leader’s drunk, shirtless son abused after hitting my car, claims Mumbai woman | Watch A Mumbai woman has alleged that Rahil Javed Shaikh, son of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Javed Shaikh, hit her car in a drunk state and then hurled expletives at her. The woman, identified as Marathi social media influencer Rajshree More, lodged a police complaint and shared a video of the incident on social media. Plant trees, get ₹3 Lakh! This Indian state rolls out new scheme for women. Here's how to apply The Madhya Pradesh state government has made a significant move to enhance the production of fruits and provide new job opportunities for women. The state government will implement the 'Ek Bagiya Maa Ke Naam' scheme in the state from August 15, 2025. Under this, women belonging to self-help groups (SHGs) will be able to plant a garden of fruit trees on their land. The cost of preparing this garden will be done by the state government. Foreign terrorist designation for Syria's HTS revoked by US, Know what is Hayat Tahrir al-Sham The United States has revoked the foreign terrorist organisation designation for Syria-based al-Nusrah Front, also known as Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a memo published online on Monday read. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio signed the memo dated June 23 before being published in a preview of the Federal Registe. It was officially published on Tuesday. 12 Turkish soldiers die of methane poisoning in Iraq cave while looking for fallen soldier’s body The defence ministry of Turkey said on Monday that a dozen Turkish soldiers died of methane gas poisoning while searching a cave in northern Iraq for remains of a fellow soldier killed by Kurdish militants three years ago. The defence ministry gave an initial death toll of eight but later raised it to 12. “Four others of our heroic comrades in arms, affected by methane gas, have died ... bringing the total number of victims to 12,” the ministry said on X. On Rishab Shetty’s birthday, Kantara: Chapter 1 new poster unveiled The team of Kantara: Chapter 1 had a special gift for fans of Rishab Shetty. On Monday, as Rishab Shetty celebrated his birthday, the makers released a poster of the film, revealing a crucial point in the film. The poster revealed that in Kantara: Chapter 1, Rishab Shetty will play a warrior. The film, which has faced a few setbacks in the recent past, seems to be still on schedule and will be released as planned. Wimbledon 'tailoring the traditions and prestige' to attract younger audience Wimbledon 2025 - year's third tennis grand slam and arguably the biggest in stature thanks to all-white dress code, royal presence and fans dressing up to best, is trying to attract younger audience. To support the bid, Wimbledon's social media account has been really active since it started on June 30. The posts, nearly 150 on TikTok and more than 200 on Instagram, already have gained the Championship 300,000 followers in the first week itself. The posts are not only about a brilliant shot by Novak Djokovic or an on court interview of a player after the win, but everything ranging from a dance routine to old moments.

Here are the top 10 stories from across the world

Top 10 world news: Russian minister kills himself after Putin sacks him; Musk slams Trump's FBI and DOJ, and more

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (Jun 5) described his latest call with US President Donald Trump as the best and the "most productive" they've had since the war began, revealing that critical discussions on air defence and Patriot missile systems had taken centre stage. In his nightly address video, Zelensky said, "Regarding the conversation with the President of the United States, which took place a day earlier, it was probably the best conversation we have had during this whole time, the most productive".<h2>What did Zelensky say about the Patriot missile system?</h2>Hailing his recent conversation with the POTUS as probably the best conversation we have had during this whole time, the most productive, Zelensky revealed that they "discussed air defence issues and I'm grateful for the willingness to help".Zelensky expressed gratitude for Trump's willingness to help; the president of the war-torn nation emphasised that Patriot air defence systems were "key to protection against ballistic threats" as Russia intensified its aerial assault on Ukraine. He added that the two leaders had discussed "several other important matters" and that officials from the two sides would be considering them in forthcoming meetings.<h2>Trump calls talks with Putin “pretty disappointing”</h2>Previously, speaking to reporters on Friday (Jul 4), Trump confirmed the call with Zelensky and reiterated that Ukraine would need the Patriot system to defend itself: "They're going to need something because they're being hit pretty hard."He also talked about a separate conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, describing it as "pretty disappointing". Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with President Vladimir Putin and remarked he was "very unhappy" about his call with the Russian leader on the war in Ukraine. Trump commented that Putin just wanted to "keep killing people", and described the situation as "no good". Trump, while talking to reporters aboard Air Force One, said, “It's a very tough situation. I told you I was very unhappy with my call with President Putin. He wants to go all the way; just keep killing people, it's no good.” He also hinted that Moscow may face tough US sanctions.

In his nightly address video, Zelensky said, "Regarding the conversation with the President of the United States, which took place a day earlier, it was probably the best conversation we have had during this whole time, the most productive".

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (Jun 5) described his latest call with US President Donald Trump as the best and the "most productive" they've had since the war began, revealing that critical discussions on air defence and Patriot missile systems had taken centre stage. In his nightly address video, Zelensky said, "Regarding the conversation with the President of the United States, which took place a day earlier, it was probably the best conversation we have had during this whole time, the most productive". What did Zelensky say about the Patriot missile system? Hailing his recent conversation with the POTUS as probably the best conversation we have had during this whole time, the most productive, Zelensky revealed that they "discussed air defence issues and I'm grateful for the willingness to help". Zelensky expressed gratitude for Trump's willingness to help; the president of the war-torn nation emphasised that Patriot air defence systems were "key to protection against ballistic threats" as Russia intensified its aerial assault on Ukraine. He added that the two leaders had discussed "several other important matters" and that officials from the two sides would be considering them in forthcoming meetings. Trump calls talks with Putin “pretty disappointing” Previously, speaking to reporters on Friday (Jul 4), Trump confirmed the call with Zelensky and reiterated that Ukraine would need the Patriot system to defend itself: "They're going to need something because they're being hit pretty hard." He also talked about a separate conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, describing it as "pretty disappointing". Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with President Vladimir Putin and remarked he was "very unhappy" about his call with the Russian leader on the war in Ukraine. Trump commented that Putin just wanted to "keep killing people", and described the situation as "no good". Trump, while talking to reporters aboard Air Force One, said, “It's a very tough situation. I told you I was very unhappy with my call with President Putin. He wants to go all the way; just keep killing people, it's no good.” He also hinted that Moscow may face tough US sanctions.

In his nightly address video, Zelensky said, "Regarding the conversation with the President of the United States, which took place a day earlier, it was probably the best conversation we have had during this whole time, the most productive".

Patriot missiles for Ukraine? Zelensky labels Trump call 'most productive yet,' says US system key to nation's survival

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jul 4) expressed his dissatisfaction with President Vladimir Putin and remarked he was "very unhappy" about his call with the Russian leader on the war in Ukraine. Trump commented that Putin just wanted to "keep killing people", and described the situation as "no good". Trump, while talking to reporters aboard Air Force One, said, “It's a very tough situation. I told you I was very unhappy with my call with President Putin. He wants to go all the way; just keep killing people, it's no good.” He also hinted that Moscow may face tough US sanctions.<h2>Looming US sanctions on Russia</h2>The US president, while talking about how he was "unhappy" with Putin, also hinted at his willingness to toughen sanctions against Russia, even as he has spent the last six months attempting to persuade the Russian president to end the war.Referring to his conversations with Putin, Trump said that he may be expecting sanctions. "We talk about sanctions a lot," said the POTUS, adding, "He understands that it may be coming."Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky describes Russian strikes a 'deliberately massive'<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-describes-russian-strikes-a-deliberately-massive-1751698805330/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-describes-russian-strikes-a-deliberately-massive-1751698805330/embed</a>Trump, who in the past has been very critical of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, said that he had a "very strategic call" with the leader of the war-torn nation on Friday. Amid mounting concerns in Kyiv over US military aid deliveries, Zelensky, as per AFP, earlier said that the two leaders have agreed to work to "strengthen" Ukraine's air defences after Moscow's largest drone and missile barrage in over three years of the war so far.The US President also told reporters that he and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in a separate call on Friday, discussed sending Patriot interceptor missiles to Ukraine. However, he added that while he had not yet agreed to do so, Merz "feels they have to be protected".&nbsp;

 Trump, while talking to reporters aboard Air Force One, said, “It's a very tough situation. I told you I was very unhappy with my call with President Putin. He wants to go all the way; just keep killing people, it's no good.” He also hinted that Moscow may face tough US sanctions.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jul 4) expressed his dissatisfaction with President Vladimir Putin and remarked he was "very unhappy" about his call with the Russian leader on the war in Ukraine. Trump commented that Putin just wanted to "keep killing people", and described the situation as "no good". Trump, while talking to reporters aboard Air Force One, said, “It's a very tough situation. I told you I was very unhappy with my call with President Putin. He wants to go all the way; just keep killing people, it's no good.” He also hinted that Moscow may face tough US sanctions. Looming US sanctions on Russia The US president, while talking about how he was "unhappy" with Putin, also hinted at his willingness to toughen sanctions against Russia, even as he has spent the last six months attempting to persuade the Russian president to end the war. Referring to his conversations with Putin, Trump said that he may be expecting sanctions. "We talk about sanctions a lot," said the POTUS, adding, "He understands that it may be coming." Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky describes Russian strikes a 'deliberately massive' https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-describes-russian-strikes-a-deliberately-massive-1751698805330/embed Trump, who in the past has been very critical of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, said that he had a "very strategic call" with the leader of the war-torn nation on Friday. Amid mounting concerns in Kyiv over US military aid deliveries, Zelensky, as per AFP, earlier said that the two leaders have agreed to work to "strengthen" Ukraine's air defences after Moscow's largest drone and missile barrage in over three years of the war so far. The US President also told reporters that he and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in a separate call on Friday, discussed sending Patriot interceptor missiles to Ukraine. However, he added that while he had not yet agreed to do so, Merz "feels they have to be protected".

&nbsp;Trump, while talking to reporters aboard Air Force One, said, “It's a very tough situation. I told you I was very unhappy with my call with President Putin. He wants to go all the way; just keep killing people, it's no good.” He also hinted that Moscow may face tough US sanctions.

‘Very unhappy’: Trump says Putin wants to 'just keep killing people,' hints at tough US sanctions

Russian leader Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump were on a phone call, the Kremlin said on Thursday. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian news agencies that the telephone conversation was “ongoing now”.&nbsp;Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi denied reports of Iran suspending cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), calling it "fake news".&nbsp;Click on the headlines for more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-on-a-phone-call-with-trump-says-kremlin-1751557433053">Russian President Putin on a phone call with Trump, says Kremlin</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751558005951.jpg?zoom=0.9&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Russian President Putin on a phone call with Trump, says Kremlin"></figure>&nbsp;Russian leader Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump were on a phone call, the Kremlin said on Thursday. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian news agencies that the telephone conversation was “ongoing now”. It was the sixth publicly disclosed conversation between the two leaders this year. The call comes amid mounting scrutiny over US support for Ukraine, as the Pentagon confirmed a pause in some military aid shipments.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-fake-news-iran-denies-ending-iaea-cooperation-lashes-out-at-germany-for-supporting-israel-and-us-1751551200344">'Fake news': Iran denies ending cooperation with IAEA, lashes out at Germany for supporting Israel and US</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751551778763.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'Fake news': Iran denies ending cooperation with IAEA, lashes out at Germany for supporting Israel and US"></figure>&nbsp;A day after reports of Iran suspending cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi called it "fake news", saying that Tehran remains committed to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and has not ended cooperation with the IAEA.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quadcopters-interceptors-and-drones-ukraine-signs-deal-with-us-firm-to-fight-against-russia-s-raging-war-what-all-does-it-include-1751553327556">'Quadcopters, interceptors and drones': Ukraine signs deal with US firm to fight against Russia's raging war - What all does it include?</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751553544549.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'Quadcopters, interceptors and drones': Ukraine signs deal with US firm to fight against Russia's raging war - What all does it include?"></figure>&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (July 3) signed a drone deal with an American firm during his visit to Denmark, amid the ongoing war with Russia. This comes after the White House halted the delivery of some air defence interceptors and precision-guided bombs and missiles to Ukraine, citing that US weapons stocks are running low.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chicago-mass-shooting-4-killed-14-injured-after-gunman-opens-fire-on-crowd-what-we-know-1751540742884">Chicago mass shooting: 4 killed, 14 injured after gunman opens fire on crowd | What we know</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751541296645.jpg?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Chicago mass shooting: 4 killed, 14 injured after gunman opens fire on crowd | What we know"></figure>&nbsp;Four people were killed and 14 others were injured in a mass shooting in Chicago on Wednesday (Jul 2) night, said police. The horrific incident took place outside a nightclub in the River North neighbourhood, on the 300 block of West Chicago Avenue. Reportedly, around 11 pm, a vehicle drove past the Artis Lounge, and three people opened fire on a crowd standing outside.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/politically-motivated-cyberattack-hacktivist-stole-data-of-2-5-mn-columbia-university-students-employees-1751548985458">Politically motivated cyberattack? 'Hacktivist' stole data of 2.5 mn Columbia University students, employees</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751549806061.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Politically motivated cyberattack? 'Hacktivist' stole data of 2.5 mn Columbia University students, employees"></figure>&nbsp;More than two million people linked to Columbia University were attacked by a seasoned "hacktivist", who reportedly stole sensitive data from the students, applicants, and employees of the Ivy League University. The officials believe this cyberattack to be politically motivated.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-5-dead-many-missing-after-ferry-capsizes-off-bali-coast-rescue-ops-on-1751555789578">At least 5 dead, many missing after ferry capsizes off Bali coast, rescue ops on</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751556139059.jpg?zoom=1&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="At least 5 dead, many missing after ferry capsizes off Bali coast, rescue ops on"></figure>&nbsp;Five people are reported dead and many still missing after a ferry capsized overnight in rough seas off Indonesia’s resort island of Bali. Thirty-five of the 65 passengers on the boat were rescued, while the remaining 25 are missing. Many of them were found unconscious after drifting in choppy waters for hours, said the local police chief. The ferry was carrying 53 passengers, 12 crew members, and 22 vehicles, including 14 trucks, when it capsized shortly before midnight on Wednesday.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beaten-starved-and-tortured-kilmar-abrego-garcia-reveals-shocking-details-of-treatment-in-el-salvador-prison-1751551585111">Beaten, starved, and tortured: Kilmar Abrego Garcia reveals SHOCKING details of treatment in El Salvador prison</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751551861629.jpg?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Beaten, starved, and tortured: Kilmar Abrego Garcia reveals SHOCKING details of treatment in El Salvador prison"></figure>&nbsp;Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was mistakenly deported by the Trump administration in March, has revealed shocking details of treatment in the El Salvador prison after his return. Abrego Garcia returned to the United States on June 6. In a legal filing on Wednesday (Jul 2), he alleged that he was beaten, starved, and tortured after being sent to the El Salvador prison.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/viral-tsunami-rumour-is-hoax-says-japan-meteorological-agencyt-1751546760004">Viral tsunami rumour is hoax says Japan Meteorological Agency</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751550802738.jpg?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Viral tsunami rumour is hoax says Japan Meteorological Agency"></figure>&nbsp;Japan's meteorological agency on Thursday put the rumours of an earthquake to rest by saying that it was all unscientific and a "hoax".Japan Meteorological Agency's Earthquake and Tsunami Observations Division said that it is impossible to predict the exact time, location or magnitude of an earthquake. Notably, the prediction of Ryo Tatsuki's Manga comic that “a crack will open up under the seabed between Japan and the Philippines” was gaining absurd mileage.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/coolie-first-look-poster-of-aamir-khan-as-dahaa-from-rajinikanth-s-upcoming-film-is-out-1751552925044">Coolie: First look poster of Aamir Khan as Dahaa from Rajinikanth's upcoming film is out</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751554107789.png?zoom=0.9&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Coolie: First look poster of Aamir Khan as Dahaa from Rajinikanth's upcoming film is out"></figure>&nbsp;Since the announcement that Bollywood star Aamir Khan will make his Tamil debut in Rajinikanth’s upcoming film Coolie, fans have been eagerly awaiting the first look poster, and now it’s here. Sun Pictures has unveiled a new poster from the film featuring Aamir Khan’s character, Dahaa.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-eng-shubman-gill-now-first-india-skipper-to-score-test-double-ton-in-england-surpassing-greats-like-kohli-and-ganguly-1751549669835">IND vs ENG: Shubman Gill does what even Kohli couldn't do, joins elite list of visiting skippers</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751549762067.jpg?rect=(0,120,1440,1080)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="IND vs ENG: Shubman Gill does what even Kohli couldn't do, joins elite list of visiting skippers"></figure>&nbsp;India Test skipper Shubman Gill has become the first Indian skipper to score a double ton in Tests against England in England. He reached the milestone on day 2 (Jul 3) of the ongoing second Test at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Overall, Gill is also only the third Indian player ever to score a Test double ton in England behind Sunil Gavaskar (in 1979) and Rahul Dravid (in 2002). Among all visiting teams, Gill's only seventh skipper to score a Test double ton against England in England.&nbsp;

Stay updated with our selection of the top international stories, delivering essential news and analysis from across the world to keep you in the loop.

Russian leader Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump were on a phone call, the Kremlin said on Thursday. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian news agencies that the telephone conversation was “ongoing now”. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi denied reports of Iran suspending cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), calling it "fake news". Click on the headlines for more Russian President Putin on a phone call with Trump, says Kremlin Russian leader Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump were on a phone call, the Kremlin said on Thursday. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian news agencies that the telephone conversation was “ongoing now”. It was the sixth publicly disclosed conversation between the two leaders this year. The call comes amid mounting scrutiny over US support for Ukraine, as the Pentagon confirmed a pause in some military aid shipments. 'Fake news': Iran denies ending cooperation with IAEA, lashes out at Germany for supporting Israel and US A day after reports of Iran suspending cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi called it "fake news", saying that Tehran remains committed to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and has not ended cooperation with the IAEA. 'Quadcopters, interceptors and drones': Ukraine signs deal with US firm to fight against Russia's raging war - What all does it include? Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (July 3) signed a drone deal with an American firm during his visit to Denmark, amid the ongoing war with Russia. This comes after the White House halted the delivery of some air defence interceptors and precision-guided bombs and missiles to Ukraine, citing that US weapons stocks are running low. Chicago mass shooting: 4 killed, 14 injured after gunman opens fire on crowd | What we know Four people were killed and 14 others were injured in a mass shooting in Chicago on Wednesday (Jul 2) night, said police. The horrific incident took place outside a nightclub in the River North neighbourhood, on the 300 block of West Chicago Avenue. Reportedly, around 11 pm, a vehicle drove past the Artis Lounge, and three people opened fire on a crowd standing outside. Politically motivated cyberattack? 'Hacktivist' stole data of 2.5 mn Columbia University students, employees More than two million people linked to Columbia University were attacked by a seasoned "hacktivist", who reportedly stole sensitive data from the students, applicants, and employees of the Ivy League University. The officials believe this cyberattack to be politically motivated. At least 5 dead, many missing after ferry capsizes off Bali coast, rescue ops on Five people are reported dead and many still missing after a ferry capsized overnight in rough seas off Indonesia’s resort island of Bali. Thirty-five of the 65 passengers on the boat were rescued, while the remaining 25 are missing. Many of them were found unconscious after drifting in choppy waters for hours, said the local police chief. The ferry was carrying 53 passengers, 12 crew members, and 22 vehicles, including 14 trucks, when it capsized shortly before midnight on Wednesday. Beaten, starved, and tortured: Kilmar Abrego Garcia reveals SHOCKING details of treatment in El Salvador prison Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was mistakenly deported by the Trump administration in March, has revealed shocking details of treatment in the El Salvador prison after his return. Abrego Garcia returned to the United States on June 6. In a legal filing on Wednesday (Jul 2), he alleged that he was beaten, starved, and tortured after being sent to the El Salvador prison. Viral tsunami rumour is hoax says Japan Meteorological Agency Japan's meteorological agency on Thursday put the rumours of an earthquake to rest by saying that it was all unscientific and a "hoax".Japan Meteorological Agency's Earthquake and Tsunami Observations Division said that it is impossible to predict the exact time, location or magnitude of an earthquake. Notably, the prediction of Ryo Tatsuki's Manga comic that “a crack will open up under the seabed between Japan and the Philippines” was gaining absurd mileage. Coolie: First look poster of Aamir Khan as Dahaa from Rajinikanth's upcoming film is out Since the announcement that Bollywood star Aamir Khan will make his Tamil debut in Rajinikanth’s upcoming film Coolie, fans have been eagerly awaiting the first look poster, and now it’s here. Sun Pictures has unveiled a new poster from the film featuring Aamir Khan’s character, Dahaa. IND vs ENG: Shubman Gill does what even Kohli couldn't do, joins elite list of visiting skippers India Test skipper Shubman Gill has become the first Indian skipper to score a double ton in Tests against England in England. He reached the milestone on day 2 (Jul 3) of the ongoing second Test at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Overall, Gill is also only the third Indian player ever to score a Test double ton in England behind Sunil Gavaskar (in 1979) and Rahul Dravid (in 2002). Among all visiting teams, Gill's only seventh skipper to score a Test double ton against England in England.

Stay updated with our selection of the top international stories, delivering essential news and analysis from across the world to keep you in the loop.

Top 10 world news: Trump, Putin hold phone call; Iran denies ending cooperation with IAEA, and more

Luhansk Oblast spans over 26,000 square kilometres in eastern Ukraine and is part of the Donbas industrial region, rich in coal and heavy industry.

Luhansk Oblast spans over 26,000 square kilometres in eastern Ukraine and is part of the Donbas industrial region, rich in coal and heavy industry.

The battle for Luhansk: Why is this city historically significant for both Russia and Ukraine?

Russian President Vladimir Putin and his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, held their first known telephone conversation for the first time in almost three years, having last talked in 2022, the Kremlin said on Tuesday.“Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron,” the Kremlin said in a statement, making it their first such conversation since September 2022, several months after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. “Vladimir Putin’s conversation with Emmanuel Macron was substantive,” the Kremlin press service reported.&nbsp;In the two-hour phone call, Macron urged Putin to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine “as soon as possible”.Macron “emphasised France’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity” and “called for the establishment, as soon as possible, of a ceasefire and the launch of negotiations between Ukraine and Russia for a solid and lasting settlement of the conflict,” the Elysee Palace said in a statement.&nbsp;<h2>Macron, Putin discuss crisis around Iran’s nuclear programme</h2>&nbsp;The two leaders also exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East in the context of the confrontation between Iran and Israel, as well as the US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.“The leaders spoke in favour of resolving the crisis around Iran’s nuclear programme, as well as other differences in the Middle East, exclusively through political and diplomatic means,” the Kremlin said.&nbsp;They noted the responsibility of Russia and France in maintaining peace in the Middle East and preserving the nuclear non-proliferation regime. The leaders also stressed the importance of respecting Tehran’s legitimate right to peaceful use of nuclear energy. &nbsp;Macron’s office said the French president also stressed the need for Iran to comply with its obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and to cooperate fully with the International Atomic Energy Agency.Both leaders reportedly agreed to stay in contact for potential coordination of positions.On Iran, “the two presidents decided to coordinate their efforts and to speak soon in order to follow up together on this issue,” the French presidency added.&nbsp;<h2>Ukraine War result of Western policy, says Putin&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;On Ukraine, Putin reiterated his position that the war is the result of Western policy, claiming the West ignored Russia’s interests, built anti-Russian infrastructure in Ukraine, and is still arming Kyiv, which he said has been prolonging the fighting.Putin expressed alleged readiness for negotiations, but only on conditions that take into account “new territorial realities” and address what he calls the “root causes of the conflict.”&nbsp;“Western states have ignored Russia’s security interests for many years, created an anti-Russian foothold in Ukraine, condoned violations of the rights of Russian-speaking residents, and are now pursuing a policy of prolonging military operations, feeding the Kyiv regime with various modern weapons,” the Kremlin reported Putin as saying.

In the two-hour phone call, Macron urged Putin to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine “as soon as possible”. Macron “emphasised France’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity” and called for a lasting settlement of the conflict.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, held their first known telephone conversation for the first time in almost three years, having last talked in 2022, the Kremlin said on Tuesday. “Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron,” the Kremlin said in a statement, making it their first such conversation since September 2022, several months after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. “Vladimir Putin’s conversation with Emmanuel Macron was substantive,” the Kremlin press service reported. In the two-hour phone call, Macron urged Putin to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine “as soon as possible”. Macron “emphasised France’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity” and “called for the establishment, as soon as possible, of a ceasefire and the launch of negotiations between Ukraine and Russia for a solid and lasting settlement of the conflict,” the Elysee Palace said in a statement. Macron, Putin discuss crisis around Iran’s nuclear programme The two leaders also exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East in the context of the confrontation between Iran and Israel, as well as the US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. “The leaders spoke in favour of resolving the crisis around Iran’s nuclear programme, as well as other differences in the Middle East, exclusively through political and diplomatic means,” the Kremlin said. They noted the responsibility of Russia and France in maintaining peace in the Middle East and preserving the nuclear non-proliferation regime. The leaders also stressed the importance of respecting Tehran’s legitimate right to peaceful use of nuclear energy. Macron’s office said the French president also stressed the need for Iran to comply with its obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and to cooperate fully with the International Atomic Energy Agency. Both leaders reportedly agreed to stay in contact for potential coordination of positions. On Iran, “the two presidents decided to coordinate their efforts and to speak soon in order to follow up together on this issue,” the French presidency added. Ukraine War result of Western policy, says Putin On Ukraine, Putin reiterated his position that the war is the result of Western policy, claiming the West ignored Russia’s interests, built anti-Russian infrastructure in Ukraine, and is still arming Kyiv, which he said has been prolonging the fighting. Putin expressed alleged readiness for negotiations, but only on conditions that take into account “new territorial realities” and address what he calls the “root causes of the conflict.” “Western states have ignored Russia’s security interests for many years, created an anti-Russian foothold in Ukraine, condoned violations of the rights of Russian-speaking residents, and are now pursuing a policy of prolonging military operations, feeding the Kyiv regime with various modern weapons,” the Kremlin reported Putin as saying.

In the two-hour phone call, Macron urged Putin to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine “as soon as possible”. Macron “emphasised France’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity” and called for a lasting settlement of the conflict.

Putin and Macron break ice, hold first phone call in nearly three years, discuss Ukraine, Iran

Russia fired its largest air assault yet against Ukraine on Sunday (June 29), a Ukrainian official said, as part of an intensifying bombing campaign that further dashed &nbsp;hopes for a breakthrough in attempts to bring an end to the 3-year-old war. Russia launched a combined total of 537 aerial munitions against Ukraine, consisting of 477 drones and decoys and 60 missiles, according to Ukraine's air force. 249 were downed and 226 were lost, probably electronically jammed.&nbsp;The attack was "the largest airstrike" on the nation since Russia's complete invasion started in February 2022, considering both drones and types of missiles, Ukraine air force communications head Yuriy Ihnat was quoted saying to The Associated Press. The attack hit a number of regions, among them were western Ukraine, well away from the front line. Multiple areas, such as Lviv, Poltava, Mykolaiv, Dnipropetrovsk, and Cherkasy, reported explosions, regional governors said.&nbsp;Pointing to the bombardment, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky argued it showed that his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin "has long decided to pursue this war, despite the international community's calls for peace". "Ukraine must reinforce its aerial defence, which is the best way to protect lives," he added, repeating his willingness to buy US-made Patriot anti-missile systems. &nbsp;US President Donald Trump, who has turned Washington's policy in the war towards Moscow since reclaiming office, has been silent on the request from Kyiv. Russian foreign intelligence chief Sergey Naryshkin on Sunday said, though, that he had spoken by phone with US counterpart John Ratcliffe."We agreed to call each other at any time to discuss issues of mutual interest," he said without specifying details about the discussion with the head of the CIA.&nbsp;One person died in a drone strike in the Kherson region, Governor Oleksandr Prokudin said, while another was killed when a drone hit a car in the Kharkiv region, according to its Governor Oleh Syniehubov. Six people were wounded in Cherkasy, including a child, according to regional Governor Ihor Taburets.

Russia launches biggest aerial attack on Ukraine with 537 aerial weapons multiple injured

Russia fired its largest air assault yet against Ukraine on Sunday (June 29), a Ukrainian official said, as part of an intensifying bombing campaign that further dashed hopes for a breakthrough in attempts to bring an end to the 3-year-old war. Russia launched a combined total of 537 aerial munitions against Ukraine, consisting of 477 drones and decoys and 60 missiles, according to Ukraine's air force. 249 were downed and 226 were lost, probably electronically jammed. The attack was "the largest airstrike" on the nation since Russia's complete invasion started in February 2022, considering both drones and types of missiles, Ukraine air force communications head Yuriy Ihnat was quoted saying to The Associated Press. The attack hit a number of regions, among them were western Ukraine, well away from the front line. Multiple areas, such as Lviv, Poltava, Mykolaiv, Dnipropetrovsk, and Cherkasy, reported explosions, regional governors said. Pointing to the bombardment, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky argued it showed that his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin "has long decided to pursue this war, despite the international community's calls for peace". "Ukraine must reinforce its aerial defence, which is the best way to protect lives," he added, repeating his willingness to buy US-made Patriot anti-missile systems. US President Donald Trump, who has turned Washington's policy in the war towards Moscow since reclaiming office, has been silent on the request from Kyiv. Russian foreign intelligence chief Sergey Naryshkin on Sunday said, though, that he had spoken by phone with US counterpart John Ratcliffe. "We agreed to call each other at any time to discuss issues of mutual interest," he said without specifying details about the discussion with the head of the CIA. One person died in a drone strike in the Kherson region, Governor Oleksandr Prokudin said, while another was killed when a drone hit a car in the Kharkiv region, according to its Governor Oleh Syniehubov. Six people were wounded in Cherkasy, including a child, according to regional Governor Ihor Taburets.

Russia fired a total of 537 aerial weapons at Ukraine, including 477 drones and decoys and 60 missiles, Ukraine’s air force said

Russia launches 'biggest aerial attack' on Ukraine with 537 aerial weapons; multiple injured

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signalled a shift in Moscow’s military spending strategy, announcing a planned cut in defence expenditure from next year. The statement, made during a press conference in Minsk, comes as NATO member states move in the opposite direction, agreeing to raise collective defence spending to 5 per cent of GDP by 2035. Putin acknowledged that Russia’s military budget, which currently stands at 6.3 per cent of GDP, 13.5 trillion rubles ($172 billion), which is unsustainable in the long term.&nbsp;<h2>Domestic pressures behind Moscow’s spending rethink</h2>&nbsp;“We paid for it with inflation, but now we are fighting this inflation,” he said, as reported by RT. Defence expenditure is expected to account for nearly a third of Russia’s 2025 federal budget, the highest since the Cold War. However, falling energy revenues, slowing growth, and a widening fiscal deficit have raised concerns in Moscow. The finance ministry has revised the 2025 budget deficit to 1.7 per cent of GDP, up from an earlier forecast of 0.5 per cent.&nbsp;Despite the announcement, Western analysts remain sceptical. Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russia has significantly expanded military production and personnel recruitment, with defence plants operating at full capacity and financial incentives offered to boost enlistment. The suggestion of a cut, observers argue, may reflect more a rhetorical positioning than a confirmed policy shift.&nbsp;<h2>NATO’s new posture reflects strategic reset</h2>&nbsp;NATO leaders this week agreed on a sweeping new defence framework, raising the alliance’s target from 2 per cent to 5 per cent of GDP over the next decade. The plan allocates 3.5 per cent for core military capabilities and 1.5 per cent for broader security functions such as cyber defence, energy infrastructure, and logistical mobility. Speaking at the summit in The Hague, NATO officials said the move was essential to address the “long-term threat posed by Russia” and ensure alliance readiness in a more contested global environment.&nbsp;Putin criticised the decision, suggesting that the increased NATO spending would largely benefit the United States’ military-industrial complex. “Let them (NATO) spend. It won't make them safer, and it will hurt them socially and economically,” he said, according to RT. He added, “So who is preparing for some kind of aggressive actions? Us or them?”&nbsp;<h2>A fractured peace and uncertain calculations</h2>&nbsp;The divergence underscores the erosion of post–Cold War strategic stability. With negotiations between Russia and Ukraine stalled and no agreement on key territorial issues, the broader security architecture appears to be entering a new phase. While Russia seeks to ease budgetary strain, NATO's posture marks a firm commitment to long-term deterrence—one that may redefine European defence for the coming decade.&nbsp;

Putin acknowledged that Russia’s military budget, which currently stands at 6.3 per cent of GDP, 13.5 trillion rubles ($172 billion), which is unsustainable in the long term.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signalled a shift in Moscow’s military spending strategy, announcing a planned cut in defence expenditure from next year. The statement, made during a press conference in Minsk, comes as NATO member states move in the opposite direction, agreeing to raise collective defence spending to 5 per cent of GDP by 2035. Putin acknowledged that Russia’s military budget, which currently stands at 6.3 per cent of GDP, 13.5 trillion rubles ($172 billion), which is unsustainable in the long term. Domestic pressures behind Moscow’s spending rethink “We paid for it with inflation, but now we are fighting this inflation,” he said, as reported by RT. Defence expenditure is expected to account for nearly a third of Russia’s 2025 federal budget, the highest since the Cold War. However, falling energy revenues, slowing growth, and a widening fiscal deficit have raised concerns in Moscow. The finance ministry has revised the 2025 budget deficit to 1.7 per cent of GDP, up from an earlier forecast of 0.5 per cent. Despite the announcement, Western analysts remain sceptical. Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russia has significantly expanded military production and personnel recruitment, with defence plants operating at full capacity and financial incentives offered to boost enlistment. The suggestion of a cut, observers argue, may reflect more a rhetorical positioning than a confirmed policy shift. NATO’s new posture reflects strategic reset NATO leaders this week agreed on a sweeping new defence framework, raising the alliance’s target from 2 per cent to 5 per cent of GDP over the next decade. The plan allocates 3.5 per cent for core military capabilities and 1.5 per cent for broader security functions such as cyber defence, energy infrastructure, and logistical mobility. Speaking at the summit in The Hague, NATO officials said the move was essential to address the “long-term threat posed by Russia” and ensure alliance readiness in a more contested global environment. Putin criticised the decision, suggesting that the increased NATO spending would largely benefit the United States’ military-industrial complex. “Let them (NATO) spend. It won't make them safer, and it will hurt them socially and economically,” he said, according to RT. He added, “So who is preparing for some kind of aggressive actions? Us or them?” A fractured peace and uncertain calculations The divergence underscores the erosion of post–Cold War strategic stability. With negotiations between Russia and Ukraine stalled and no agreement on key territorial issues, the broader security architecture appears to be entering a new phase. While Russia seeks to ease budgetary strain, NATO's posture marks a firm commitment to long-term deterrence—one that may redefine European defence for the coming decade.

Putin acknowledged that Russia’s military budget, which currently stands at 6.3 per cent of GDP, 13.5 trillion rubles ($172 billion), which is unsustainable in the long term.

Russia weighs military spending cuts as NATO targets 5% defence boost! Here’s why

Pope Leo XIV, in a dramatic appeal for peace, has offered the Vatican as the neutral ground for peace talks between Ukraine and Russia.
The pontiff's offer comes as both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and Russian President Vladimir Putin skipped the peace talks in Istanbul, Turkey, on Friday (May 16).
<h2>An 'opening for peace'</h2>
A spokesperson for the newly elected leader of the Catholic Church, as per the Daily Mail, said that the pope's offer hopes to help solve the "very difficult, dramatic situation" and provide an "opening for peace".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biggest-prisoner-swap-in-over-3-years-russia-ukraine-peace-talks-in-turkey-istanbul-zelensky-vladimir-putin-us-trump-9076415">'BIGGEST prisoner swap in over 3 years': What was discussed during Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Turkey</a>
Pope Leo's offer comes as talks collapsed barely 90 minutes into the first direct dialogue between Russia and Ukraine in over three years.
The diplomacy in Turkey started falling apart when Putin refused to attend, despite having initially proposed the talks.
Zelensky, who had travelled to Turkey, also avoided the Istanbul talks once it became clear Putin wouldn't show. &nbsp; The diplomacy deteriorated further with Russia refusing to discuss a ceasefire unless "core conditions" were met. These include the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from four eastern provinces and a halt to Western military aid to Kyiv.
Ukraine immediately dismissed the demands as "detached from reality", to which a Russian delegate reportedly warned, "Next time it will be five regions."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-insists-ukraine-russia-peace-wont-happen-until-he-and-vladimir-putin-get-together-russia-ukraine-peace-talks-in-turkey-9073995">Trump insists Ukraine-Russia peace won't happen until he and Putin 'get together'</a>
<h2>'Back at beginning': Holy See steps in as Istanbul talks collapse</h2>
Following the failed talks in Turkey, where low-level officials from the two countries agreed to release 1,000 prisoners each, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin revealed that the Pope intends to "offer the Vatican, the Holy See, for a direct meeting of both parties".
Labelling the failure of the first Russia-Ukraine direct talks "tragic", he said that "we hoped that a process could be started, perhaps slow but with a peaceful solution to the conflict. Instead, we are back at the beginning."
However, turning down Zelensky's invitation to Pope Leo to visit Ukraine, Parolin said a visit was "premature".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-to-skip-first-direct-peace-talks-with-russia-in-turkey-after-vladimir-putin-snub-russia-ukraine-peace-talks-turkey-9073834">Zelensky to skip first direct peace talks with Russia in Turkey, cites Putin's no-show&nbsp;as&nbsp;'unserious'</a>

Trending | World | Pope Leo XIV offered the Vatican as a neutral ground for the Russia-Ukraine peace talks as the Istanbul peace talks collapsed.

Pope Leo XIV, in a dramatic appeal for peace, has offered the Vatican as the neutral ground for peace talks between Ukraine and Russia. The pontiff's offer comes as both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and Russian President Vladimir Putin skipped the peace talks in Istanbul, Turkey, on Friday (May 16). An 'opening for peace' A spokesperson for the newly elected leader of the Catholic Church, as per the Daily Mail, said that the pope's offer hopes to help solve the "very difficult, dramatic situation" and provide an "opening for peace". Also read | 'BIGGEST prisoner swap in over 3 years': What was discussed during Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Turkey Pope Leo's offer comes as talks collapsed barely 90 minutes into the first direct dialogue between Russia and Ukraine in over three years. The diplomacy in Turkey started falling apart when Putin refused to attend, despite having initially proposed the talks. Zelensky, who had travelled to Turkey, also avoided the Istanbul talks once it became clear Putin wouldn't show. The diplomacy deteriorated further with Russia refusing to discuss a ceasefire unless "core conditions" were met. These include the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from four eastern provinces and a halt to Western military aid to Kyiv. Ukraine immediately dismissed the demands as "detached from reality", to which a Russian delegate reportedly warned, "Next time it will be five regions." Also read | Trump insists Ukraine-Russia peace won't happen until he and Putin 'get together' 'Back at beginning': Holy See steps in as Istanbul talks collapse Following the failed talks in Turkey, where low-level officials from the two countries agreed to release 1,000 prisoners each, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin revealed that the Pope intends to "offer the Vatican, the Holy See, for a direct meeting of both parties". Labelling the failure of the first Russia-Ukraine direct talks "tragic", he said that "we hoped that a process could be started, perhaps slow but with a peaceful solution to the conflict. Instead, we are back at the beginning." However, turning down Zelensky's invitation to Pope Leo to visit Ukraine, Parolin said a visit was "premature". Also read | Zelensky to skip first direct peace talks with Russia in Turkey, cites Putin's no-show as 'unserious'

Pope Leo XIV offers Vatican for Russia-Ukraine peace as ceasefire hopes collapse in Istanbul

Russian President Vladimir Putin has voiced strong condemnation over the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, during a phone call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (May 05). The assault, which took place on April 22, claimed 26 lives.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-live-pakistan-violates-ceasefire-for-11th-consecutive-day-9033468" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Pahalgam Terror Attack LIVE: Security forces bust terror hideout in Poonch, recover 5 IEDs, radio sets</a>
Putin offered his condolences to the victims and pledged Russia&rsquo;s support in India&rsquo;s fight against terrorism. "President Putin @KremlinRussia_E called PM @narendramodi and strongly condemned the terror attack in Pahalgam, India. He conveyed deepest condolences on the loss of innocent lives and expressed full support to India in the fight against terrorism. He emphasised that the perpetrators of the heinous attack and their supporters must be brought to justice," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X.
<h2>Putin's call comes amid Pakistani suggestion for foreign probe</h2>
The timing of the Russian president&rsquo;s call is important, as it comes just after Pakistan&rsquo;s defence minister called for international involvement in investigating the attack.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inside-india-pakistans-nuclear-arsenals-who-has-more-and-what-would-happen-if-new-delhi-islamabad-unleash-their-nukes-pahalgam-terror-attack-9007737" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Inside India, Pakistan&rsquo;s nuclear arsenals: Who has more, and what would happen if New Delhi, Islamabad unleash their nukes?</a>
In an interview with Russian state media RIA Novosti, Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif suggested that Russia, China, or even Western nations could set up a team to determine whether India&rsquo;s claims about Pakistan&rsquo;s involvement are true. "Let an international team find out," Asif said, adding that Pakistan&rsquo;s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also supports such a probe.
Asif denied any Pakistani link to the terror strike and said, &ldquo;These are just statements, empty statements and nothing more.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-pakistan-got-the-nuclear-bomb-india-pahalgam-terror-attack-9007958" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Will go hungry, but get the bomb&rsquo;: How Pakistan got the nuclear bomb? A story of desperation, fear, and rivalry with India</a>
<h2>Modi invites Putin to India for annual summit</h2>
Beyond the Pahalgam attack, the two leaders discussed broader cooperation between India and Russia. According to Jaiswal, they &ldquo;reiterated their commitment&rdquo; to deepening the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.
Prime Minister Modi congratulated Putin ahead of Russia&rsquo;s Victory Day celebrations on May 9 and invited him to attend the Annual Summit in India later this year. The Russian leader accepted the invitation.
Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/good-news-for-sohni-and-mahiwal-pakistan-faces-critical-water-shortage-as-india-cuts-chenab-water-9036731" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Good news for Sohni and Mahiwal'? Pakistan faces critical water shortage as India cuts Chenab water</a>

India News: The timing of the Russian president’s call is important, as it comes just after Pakistan’s defence minister called for international involvement in investigating the attack.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has voiced strong condemnation over the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, during a phone call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (May 05). The assault, which took place on April 22, claimed 26 lives. Also read: Pahalgam Terror Attack LIVE: Security forces bust terror hideout in Poonch, recover 5 IEDs, radio sets Putin offered his condolences to the victims and pledged Russia’s support in India’s fight against terrorism. "President Putin @KremlinRussia_E called PM @narendramodi and strongly condemned the terror attack in Pahalgam, India. He conveyed deepest condolences on the loss of innocent lives and expressed full support to India in the fight against terrorism. He emphasised that the perpetrators of the heinous attack and their supporters must be brought to justice," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X. Putin's call comes amid Pakistani suggestion for foreign probe The timing of the Russian president’s call is important, as it comes just after Pakistan’s defence minister called for international involvement in investigating the attack. Also read: Inside India, Pakistan’s nuclear arsenals: Who has more, and what would happen if New Delhi, Islamabad unleash their nukes? In an interview with Russian state media RIA Novosti, Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif suggested that Russia, China, or even Western nations could set up a team to determine whether India’s claims about Pakistan’s involvement are true. "Let an international team find out," Asif said, adding that Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also supports such a probe. Asif denied any Pakistani link to the terror strike and said, “These are just statements, empty statements and nothing more.” Also read: 'Will go hungry, but get the bomb’: How Pakistan got the nuclear bomb? A story of desperation, fear, and rivalry with India Modi invites Putin to India for annual summit Beyond the Pahalgam attack, the two leaders discussed broader cooperation between India and Russia. According to Jaiswal, they “reiterated their commitment” to deepening the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. Prime Minister Modi congratulated Putin ahead of Russia’s Victory Day celebrations on May 9 and invited him to attend the Annual Summit in India later this year. The Russian leader accepted the invitation. Watch: 'Good news for Sohni and Mahiwal'? Pakistan faces critical water shortage as India cuts Chenab water

'Full support to India': Russia's Putin dials PM Modi, says 'perpetrators of Pahalgam attack must be brought to justice’

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (April 26) slammed Russian President Vladimir Putin questioning whether the Kremlin truly wants to end the war in Ukraine, suggesting that tougher measures might be needed.
Posting on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump said, "With all of that being said, there was no reason for Putin to be shooting missiles into civilian areas, cities and towns, over the last few days. It makes me think that maybe he doesn&rsquo;t want to stop the war, he&rsquo;s just tapping me along, and has to be dealt with differently, through 'Banking' or 'Secondary Sanctions'? Too many people are dying!!!"
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/completely-failed-russia-liberates-kursk-from-ukraine-hail-north-korean-soldiers-why-this-is-a-crushing-setback-for-kyiv-9004541">'False': Russia claims Kursk liberation; Ukrainian army says Kremlin's statement 'don't correspond to reality'</a>
His sharp words came shortly after the Kremlin announced Russia&rsquo;s willingness to resume talks with Ukraine, claiming they would do so "without preconditions."
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "During yesterday's talks with Trump's envoy Witkoff, Vladimir Putin reiterated that Russia is ready to resume negotiations with Ukraine without any preconditions." Peskov also noted that Putin has made similar offers in the past.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/3-hours-2-proposals-secret-putin-witkoff-meet-puts-direct-talks-on-table-where-does-the-russia-ukraine-peace-plan-stand-now-9002380" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">3 hours, 2 proposals: Secret Putin-Witkoff meet puts &lsquo;direct talks&rsquo; on table. Where does Russia-Ukraine peace plan stand now?</a>
<h2>Trump and Zelensky meet privately before Pope Francis&rsquo; funeral</h2>
Trump&rsquo;s comments followed a private meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, held ahead of the funeral of Pope Francis in Vatican City.
"President Trump and President Zelensky met privately today and had a very productive discussion," said White House communications director Steven Cheung.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/handshake-and-death-stare-curious-case-of-two-pictures-of-trump-and-macron-in-pope-francis-funeral-watch-9004959" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Handshake and death stare: Curious case of two pictures of Trump and Macron in Pope Francis' funeral | Watch</a>
The Ukrainian presidency also confirmed the meeting, with Zelensky&rsquo;s spokesman Sergiy Nykyforov telling journalists: "The meeting took place and is already over," but gave no further details.
This latest development comes after the White House recently stated that Kyiv and Moscow were "very close to a deal."
The encounter between Trump and Zelensky was the first after their verbal spat in Washington back in February. At that time, discussions in the Oval Office ended abruptly, with no clear breakthrough.
Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-zelensky-meet-at-popes-funeral-weeks-after-white-house-clash-9004316">Trump, Zelensky Meet At Pope's Funeral Weeks After White House Clash</a>

World: Trump’s comments followed a private meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, held ahead of the funeral of Pope Francis in Vatican City.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (April 26) slammed Russian President Vladimir Putin questioning whether the Kremlin truly wants to end the war in Ukraine, suggesting that tougher measures might be needed. Posting on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump said, "With all of that being said, there was no reason for Putin to be shooting missiles into civilian areas, cities and towns, over the last few days. It makes me think that maybe he doesn’t want to stop the war, he’s just tapping me along, and has to be dealt with differently, through 'Banking' or 'Secondary Sanctions'? Too many people are dying!!!" Also read: 'False': Russia claims Kursk liberation; Ukrainian army says Kremlin's statement 'don't correspond to reality' His sharp words came shortly after the Kremlin announced Russia’s willingness to resume talks with Ukraine, claiming they would do so "without preconditions." Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "During yesterday's talks with Trump's envoy Witkoff, Vladimir Putin reiterated that Russia is ready to resume negotiations with Ukraine without any preconditions." Peskov also noted that Putin has made similar offers in the past. Also read: 3 hours, 2 proposals: Secret Putin-Witkoff meet puts ‘direct talks’ on table. Where does Russia-Ukraine peace plan stand now? Trump and Zelensky meet privately before Pope Francis’ funeral Trump’s comments followed a private meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, held ahead of the funeral of Pope Francis in Vatican City. "President Trump and President Zelensky met privately today and had a very productive discussion," said White House communications director Steven Cheung. Also read: Handshake and death stare: Curious case of two pictures of Trump and Macron in Pope Francis' funeral | Watch The Ukrainian presidency also confirmed the meeting, with Zelensky’s spokesman Sergiy Nykyforov telling journalists: "The meeting took place and is already over," but gave no further details. This latest development comes after the White House recently stated that Kyiv and Moscow were "very close to a deal." The encounter between Trump and Zelensky was the first after their verbal spat in Washington back in February. At that time, discussions in the Oval Office ended abruptly, with no clear breakthrough. Watch: Trump, Zelensky Meet At Pope's Funeral Weeks After White House Clash

'Putin doesn’t want to stop the war': Trump says Russia needs to be 'dealt with differently' after meeting with Zelensky

The Kremlin said on Friday that a phone conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and former US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/open-to-a-deal-trump-optimistic-about-striking-a-deal-with-china-amid-tariff-row-8952798" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump</a> could take place, following a meeting in St. Petersburg between Trump&rsquo;s special envoy Steve Witkoff and senior Russian officials.
The talks, which focused on the war in Ukraine, were attended by Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov and Kirill Dmitriev, who heads the Russian Direct Investment Fund and serves as the president&rsquo;s representative for foreign investment.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov described the start of the meeting as &ldquo;businesslike&rdquo; and added that a conversation between Putin and Trump is &ldquo;theoretically possible&rdquo; following the discussions.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-wants-to-lock-in-daylight-saving-time-did-you-know-it-was-a-wwi-invention-8952431" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'No more changing of clocks': Trump wants to 'lock in' Daylight Saving Time: Did you know it was a WWI invention?</a>
<h2>Trump: "A senseless war that should never have happened"</h2>
The comments came just hours after Trump repeated his criticism of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, calling it &ldquo;senseless&rdquo; and insisting it would never have started under his leadership.
&ldquo;Russia has to get moving. Too many people were DYING, thousands a week, in a terrible and senseless war - A war that should have never happened, and wouldn&rsquo;t have happened, if I were President!!!&rdquo; Trump posted on Truth Social on Friday (11 April).
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/too-many-people-dying-trump-pushes-russia-for-ceasefire-asks-kremlin-to-get-going-as-thousands-die-in-senseless-war-8952054" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Too many people DYING': Trump pushes Russia for ceasefire, asks Kremlin to 'get going' as thousands die in 'senseless war'</a>
Earlier this week, Trump confirmed that peace talks with Russia were ongoing and stressed the urgent need to end the violence.
&ldquo;We are talking to Russia, we would like them to stop. I don't like them bombing on and on, and every week thousands of young people being killed,&rdquo; he said when asked about the progress of a possible peace deal.
<h2>Third Russian visit for Trump envoy</h2>
This was Witkoff&rsquo;s third trip to Russia, following his last visit on 13 March in Moscow, where he met with high-ranking Russian officials and was received by President Putin.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-tariff-us-republican-president-william-mckinley-8951663" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump's tariff crusade isn't new: Meet his idol who did it first and regretted it</a>
Although Friday&rsquo;s meeting centred on Ukraine, recent talks between US and Russian officials in Istanbul were limited to embassy matters and did not include the conflict.
Trump continues to push for a ceasefire in Ukraine, though his efforts have not yet led to concrete results. A 30-day ceasefire agreement between Washington and Kyiv was reached in March, but Moscow has so far refused full cooperation. Russia has also failed to respect the terms of a limited energy truce agreed after the initial deal.
Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-says-russia-naval-strategic-nuclear-forces-are-fully-equipped-with-modern-weapons-8952576">Putin says Russia naval strategic nuclear forces are fully equipped with modern weapons</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov described the start of the meeting as “businesslike” and added that a conversation between Putin and Trump is “theoretically possible” following the discussions.

The Kremlin said on Friday that a phone conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and former US President Donald Trump could take place, following a meeting in St. Petersburg between Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and senior Russian officials. The talks, which focused on the war in Ukraine, were attended by Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov and Kirill Dmitriev, who heads the Russian Direct Investment Fund and serves as the president’s representative for foreign investment. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov described the start of the meeting as “businesslike” and added that a conversation between Putin and Trump is “theoretically possible” following the discussions. Also read: 'No more changing of clocks': Trump wants to 'lock in' Daylight Saving Time: Did you know it was a WWI invention? Trump: "A senseless war that should never have happened" The comments came just hours after Trump repeated his criticism of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, calling it “senseless” and insisting it would never have started under his leadership. “Russia has to get moving. Too many people were DYING, thousands a week, in a terrible and senseless war - A war that should have never happened, and wouldn’t have happened, if I were President!!!” Trump posted on Truth Social on Friday (11 April). Also read: 'Too many people DYING': Trump pushes Russia for ceasefire, asks Kremlin to 'get going' as thousands die in 'senseless war' Earlier this week, Trump confirmed that peace talks with Russia were ongoing and stressed the urgent need to end the violence. “We are talking to Russia, we would like them to stop. I don't like them bombing on and on, and every week thousands of young people being killed,” he said when asked about the progress of a possible peace deal. Third Russian visit for Trump envoy This was Witkoff’s third trip to Russia, following his last visit on 13 March in Moscow, where he met with high-ranking Russian officials and was received by President Putin. Also read: Donald Trump's tariff crusade isn't new: Meet his idol who did it first and regretted it Although Friday’s meeting centred on Ukraine, recent talks between US and Russian officials in Istanbul were limited to embassy matters and did not include the conflict. Trump continues to push for a ceasefire in Ukraine, though his efforts have not yet led to concrete results. A 30-day ceasefire agreement between Washington and Kyiv was reached in March, but Moscow has so far refused full cooperation. Russia has also failed to respect the terms of a limited energy truce agreed after the initial deal. Watch: Putin says Russia naval strategic nuclear forces are fully equipped with modern weapons (With inputs from agencies)

Putin-Trump call ‘possible’, says Kremlin after Russian leader’s talks with US envoy Witkoff on Ukraine

The Kremlin has confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin is still willing to engage in discussions with US President Donald Trump despite Trump's recent criticism over the lack of progress on a ceasefire in Ukraine.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "The president remains open to contact with President Trump." However, he noted that no phone call had been scheduled between the two leaders at present. "When it is necessary, their conversation will be promptly organised," Peskov added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-leader-urges-supporters-to-fight-trumps-sinister-gaza-plan-8910140">'Don't withhold explosive, bullet, knife, or stone': Hamas leader urges supporters to fight Trump's 'sinister' Gaza plan</a>
<h2>Trump's frustration over Ukraine conflict</h2>
Trump, in a phone interview with NBC News on Sunday, voiced his displeasure at Putin&rsquo;s recent comments regarding Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. He described himself as &ldquo;very angry&rdquo; and &ldquo;pissed off,&rdquo; saying, &ldquo;It&rsquo;s not going in the right location.&rdquo;
Putin had suggested on Friday that Ukraine should form a transitional government, which could potentially remove Zelensky from power. Trump responded by threatening economic action against Russia, saying, &ldquo;If Russia and I are unable to make a deal on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I think it was Russia&rsquo;s fault, which it might not be, but if I think it was Russia&rsquo;s fault, I am going to put secondary tariffs on oil, on all oil coming out of Russia.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-trump-pissed-off-over-anti-zelensky-comments-secondary-oil-tariffs-on-russia-8907533">&lsquo;Putin knows I&rsquo;m angry&rsquo;: Trump &lsquo;pissed off&rsquo; over anti-Zelensky remarks, warns of secondary oil tariffs on Russia</a>
He further elaborated that these tariffs would range between 25% and 50% and would apply to any country purchasing Russian oil.
Despite his frustration, Trump acknowledged that he maintains a "very good relationship" with Putin. &ldquo;Putin knows I am angry,&rdquo; he said, adding, &ldquo;the anger dissipates quickly... if he does the right thing.&rdquo;
Peskov said that discussions between Russia and the US are ongoing, focusing on both bilateral relations and efforts to address the Ukraine conflict.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-third-term-8907961">&lsquo;Not joking&rsquo; about third term: Trump says there are &lsquo;methods&rsquo; to stay in power beyond 2028</a>
So far, there have been two confirmed phone calls between Putin and Trump this year, on 12 February and 18 March. However, speculation persists that the two leaders have been in more frequent contact, including reports of conversations before Trump&rsquo;s re-election.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/there-will-be-bombing-like-never-before-trump-threatens-iran-with-strikes-tariffs-over-nuclear-deal-refusal-8907621">'There will be bombing like never before': Trump threatens Iran with strikes, tariffs over nuclear deal refusal</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Speaking to reporters on Monday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "The president remains open to contact with President Trump."

The Kremlin has confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin is still willing to engage in discussions with US President Donald Trump despite Trump's recent criticism over the lack of progress on a ceasefire in Ukraine. Speaking to reporters on Monday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "The president remains open to contact with President Trump." However, he noted that no phone call had been scheduled between the two leaders at present. "When it is necessary, their conversation will be promptly organised," Peskov added. Also read: 'Don't withhold explosive, bullet, knife, or stone': Hamas leader urges supporters to fight Trump's 'sinister' Gaza plan Trump's frustration over Ukraine conflict Trump, in a phone interview with NBC News on Sunday, voiced his displeasure at Putin’s recent comments regarding Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. He described himself as “very angry” and “pissed off,” saying, “It’s not going in the right location.” Putin had suggested on Friday that Ukraine should form a transitional government, which could potentially remove Zelensky from power. Trump responded by threatening economic action against Russia, saying, “If Russia and I are unable to make a deal on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I think it was Russia’s fault, which it might not be, but if I think it was Russia’s fault, I am going to put secondary tariffs on oil, on all oil coming out of Russia.” Also read: ‘Putin knows I’m angry’: Trump ‘pissed off’ over anti-Zelensky remarks, warns of secondary oil tariffs on Russia He further elaborated that these tariffs would range between 25% and 50% and would apply to any country purchasing Russian oil. Despite his frustration, Trump acknowledged that he maintains a "very good relationship" with Putin. “Putin knows I am angry,” he said, adding, “the anger dissipates quickly... if he does the right thing.” Peskov said that discussions between Russia and the US are ongoing, focusing on both bilateral relations and efforts to address the Ukraine conflict. Also read: ‘Not joking’ about third term: Trump says there are ‘methods’ to stay in power beyond 2028 So far, there have been two confirmed phone calls between Putin and Trump this year, on 12 February and 18 March. However, speculation persists that the two leaders have been in more frequent contact, including reports of conversations before Trump’s re-election. Also read: 'There will be bombing like never before': Trump threatens Iran with strikes, tariffs over nuclear deal refusal (With inputs from agencies)

After Trump’s ‘angry’ remarks, Kremlin says Putin ‘open’ to call with US president ‘if deemed necessary’

US President Donald Trump has criticised media outlets for allegedly spreading false claims that Russian President Vladimir Putin kept US special envoy Steve Witkoff waiting for over nine hours. Trump insisted that no such delay occurred.
Taking to Truth Social on Saturday (15 March), Trump accused the media of dishonesty, saying, "The Fake News, as usual, is at it again! Why can&rsquo;t they be honest, just for once? Last night I read that President Vladimir Putin of Russia kept my Highly Respected Ambassador and Special Envoy, Steve Witkoff, waiting for over nine hours when, in fact, there was no wait whatsoever."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-revive-his-travel-ban-43-nations-on-the-chopping-block-including-russia-and-iran-8856103">Trump to revive his travel ban: 43 nations on the chopping block, including Russia and Iran</a>
He acknowledged that other meetings with Russian representatives had taken place and lasted some time but described them as "very productive."
"From there, things went quickly and efficiently, and all signs seem to be, hopefully, very good! In conclusion, there was no nine-hour wait, or any wait at all! The only reason they made up that story is to try and DEMEAN, because they are sick degenerates, that have to start reporting the News correctly. This is why they have lost their ratings, their audience, and respect. Thank you for your attention to this matter and, GOD BLESS AMERICA!" he added.
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<h2>Trump condemns media, calls for action</h2>
A day earlier, on Friday (14 March), Trump took aim at major news networks during a speech at the Department of Justice, suggesting their reporting should be considered illegal and investigated.
&ldquo;I believe that CNN and MS-DNC, who literally write 97.6% bad about me, are political arms of the Democrat [sic] party and in my opinion, they&rsquo;re really corrupt and they&rsquo;re illegal, what they do is illegal,&rdquo; he claimed.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-is-lying-to-everyone-zelensky-demands-strong-pressure-on-russia-blasts-moscows-delaying-tactics-8856653">&lsquo;Putin is lying to everyone&rsquo;: Zelensky demands &lsquo;strong pressure&rsquo; on Russia, blasts Moscow&rsquo;s &lsquo;delaying tactics&rsquo;</a>
He went on to compare news organisations to political operatives, arguing that their actions should not be permitted.
&ldquo;These networks and these newspapers are really no different than a highly paid political operative,&rdquo; Trump said, labelling CNN and MSNBC as "corrupt."
&ldquo;And it has to stop, it has to be illegal, it&rsquo;s influencing judges and it&rsquo;s really changing law, and it just cannot be legal. I don&rsquo;t believe it&rsquo;s legal, and they do it in total coordination with each other,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-coalition-of-the-willing-uk-keir-starmer-france-emmanuel-macron-nato-unite-to-push-russia-into-ceasefire-as-putin-stalls-8856438">'Will build Ukraine&rsquo;s own defences': UK, France, NATO unite to push Russia into ceasefire as Putin 'stalls'</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Taking to Truth Social on Saturday (15 March), Trump accused the media of dishonesty, saying, "The Fake News, as usual, is at it again! Why can’t they be honest, just for once?"

US President Donald Trump has criticised media outlets for allegedly spreading false claims that Russian President Vladimir Putin kept US special envoy Steve Witkoff waiting for over nine hours. Trump insisted that no such delay occurred. Taking to Truth Social on Saturday (15 March), Trump accused the media of dishonesty, saying, "The Fake News, as usual, is at it again! Why can’t they be honest, just for once? Last night I read that President Vladimir Putin of Russia kept my Highly Respected Ambassador and Special Envoy, Steve Witkoff, waiting for over nine hours when, in fact, there was no wait whatsoever." Also read: Trump to revive his travel ban: 43 nations on the chopping block, including Russia and Iran He acknowledged that other meetings with Russian representatives had taken place and lasted some time but described them as "very productive." "From there, things went quickly and efficiently, and all signs seem to be, hopefully, very good! In conclusion, there was no nine-hour wait, or any wait at all! The only reason they made up that story is to try and DEMEAN, because they are sick degenerates, that have to start reporting the News correctly. This is why they have lost their ratings, their audience, and respect. Thank you for your attention to this matter and, GOD BLESS AMERICA!" he added. Also read: US expels South African ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, accuses him of hating America and Trump Trump condemns media, calls for action A day earlier, on Friday (14 March), Trump took aim at major news networks during a speech at the Department of Justice, suggesting their reporting should be considered illegal and investigated. “I believe that CNN and MS-DNC, who literally write 97.6% bad about me, are political arms of the Democrat [sic] party and in my opinion, they’re really corrupt and they’re illegal, what they do is illegal,” he claimed. Also read: ‘Putin is lying to everyone’: Zelensky demands ‘strong pressure’ on Russia, blasts Moscow’s ‘delaying tactics’ He went on to compare news organisations to political operatives, arguing that their actions should not be permitted. “These networks and these newspapers are really no different than a highly paid political operative,” Trump said, labelling CNN and MSNBC as "corrupt." “And it has to stop, it has to be illegal, it’s influencing judges and it’s really changing law, and it just cannot be legal. I don’t believe it’s legal, and they do it in total coordination with each other,” he added. Also read: 'Will build Ukraine’s own defences': UK, France, NATO unite to push Russia into ceasefire as Putin 'stalls' (With inputs from agencies)

‘Sick degenerates’: Trump slams ‘fake news’ over claim Putin made US envoy Witkoff wait 9 hours

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/donald-trump" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump</a> on Sunday (March 9) accused Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky of being "ungrateful," claiming he took American financial aid for Ukraine "like candy from a baby."&nbsp;
Trump's comments come as senior US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, prepare to meet Ukrainian representatives in Saudi Arabia for talks aimed at ending the ongoing war.
Speaking to Fox News, Trump criticised the Biden administration for providing Ukraine with billions in military support, arguing that Zelensky had exploited the situation. "It was like taking candy from a baby what he did. He's a smart guy, and he's a tough guy, and he took money out of this country under Biden like candy from a baby&mdash;it was so easy with that same attitude. I just don't think he's grateful. We gave him $350 billion," Trump said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/homeland-security-secretary-kristi-noem-says-us-is-now-trumps-country-as-border-crackdown-continues-8837472">&lsquo;Not Biden&rsquo;s world anymore&rsquo;: DHS chief says US is now &lsquo;Trump&rsquo;s country&rsquo; as border crackdown continues</a>
<h2>'Nobody has been tougher on Russia than me'</h2>
Trump also defended his record on Russia, dismissing claims that US support for Ukraine has weakened. "I stopped the Russian pipeline, I'm the one that put sanctions on Russia, I'm the one that gave the Javelins, but I get along well with Putin. Nobody has been tougher on Russia than Donald Trump, and they know that," he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-miffed-with-uk-after-king-charles-welcomes-zelensky-trudeau-to-his-home-8837379">&lsquo;Makes him feel less special&rsquo;: Trump miffed with UK after King Charles welcomes Zelensky, Trudeau to his home</a>
Trump added that he had good relations with key world leaders. "I got along with Putin, just like I got along with Kim Jong-un and China's President Xi Jinping," he added.
<h2>Nuclear weapons and Europe's defence</h2>
As European nations continue strengthening their defences, French President Emmanuel Macron recently suggested that France's nuclear deterrent could be used to protect the continent. Addressing the issue of nuclear arms, Trump said, "We spend a lot of money on nuclear weapons&mdash;the level of destruction is beyond anything you can imagine. It's just bad that you have to spend all this money on something that, if it's used, it's probably the end of the world."
Warning about the destructive potential of nuclear war, he described the weapons in global stockpiles as "monsters" that could "end the world."
<h2>Calls for peace talks amid escalation</h2>
On Friday, Trump voiced concern over the state of the conflict, accusing Russia of "pounding" Ukraine. He said that he was "strongly considering" imposing tougher sanctions and tariffs on Moscow.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trumps-russia-reset-raises-fear-of-espionage-as-us-considers-allowing-diplomats-back-in-8837068">&lsquo;Rubbing hands with glee&rsquo;: Trump's Russia reset raises espionage risk as US considers allowing diplomats back in</a>
Posting on Truth Social, he wrote, "Based on the fact that Russia is absolutely 'pounding' Ukraine on the battlefield right now, I am strongly considering large-scale Banking Sanctions, Sanctions, and Tariffs on Russia until a Cease Fire and FINAL SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT ON PEACE IS REACHED."
Urging both nations to negotiate, he added, "To Russia and Ukraine, get to the table right now, before it is too late. Thank you!!!"
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump criticised the Biden administration for providing Ukraine with billions in military support, arguing that Zelensky had exploited the situation.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (March 9) accused Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky of being "ungrateful," claiming he took American financial aid for Ukraine "like candy from a baby." Trump's comments come as senior US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, prepare to meet Ukrainian representatives in Saudi Arabia for talks aimed at ending the ongoing war. Speaking to Fox News, Trump criticised the Biden administration for providing Ukraine with billions in military support, arguing that Zelensky had exploited the situation. "It was like taking candy from a baby what he did. He's a smart guy, and he's a tough guy, and he took money out of this country under Biden like candy from a baby—it was so easy with that same attitude. I just don't think he's grateful. We gave him $350 billion," Trump said. Also read: ‘Not Biden’s world anymore’: DHS chief says US is now ‘Trump’s country’ as border crackdown continues 'Nobody has been tougher on Russia than me' Trump also defended his record on Russia, dismissing claims that US support for Ukraine has weakened. "I stopped the Russian pipeline, I'm the one that put sanctions on Russia, I'm the one that gave the Javelins, but I get along well with Putin. Nobody has been tougher on Russia than Donald Trump, and they know that," he said. Also read: ‘Makes him feel less special’: Trump miffed with UK after King Charles welcomes Zelensky, Trudeau to his home Trump added that he had good relations with key world leaders. "I got along with Putin, just like I got along with Kim Jong-un and China's President Xi Jinping," he added. Nuclear weapons and Europe's defence As European nations continue strengthening their defences, French President Emmanuel Macron recently suggested that France's nuclear deterrent could be used to protect the continent. Addressing the issue of nuclear arms, Trump said, "We spend a lot of money on nuclear weapons—the level of destruction is beyond anything you can imagine. It's just bad that you have to spend all this money on something that, if it's used, it's probably the end of the world." Warning about the destructive potential of nuclear war, he described the weapons in global stockpiles as "monsters" that could "end the world." Calls for peace talks amid escalation On Friday, Trump voiced concern over the state of the conflict, accusing Russia of "pounding" Ukraine. He said that he was "strongly considering" imposing tougher sanctions and tariffs on Moscow. Also read: ‘Rubbing hands with glee’: Trump's Russia reset raises espionage risk as US considers allowing diplomats back in Posting on Truth Social, he wrote, "Based on the fact that Russia is absolutely 'pounding' Ukraine on the battlefield right now, I am strongly considering large-scale Banking Sanctions, Sanctions, and Tariffs on Russia until a Cease Fire and FINAL SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT ON PEACE IS REACHED." Urging both nations to negotiate, he added, "To Russia and Ukraine, get to the table right now, before it is too late. Thank you!!!" (With inputs from agencies)

‘Took money like candy from baby’: Trump slams ‘ungrateful’ Zelensky for extorting US ahead of talks with Kyiv

The Trump administration is in discussions with Moscow about allowing Russian diplomats back into the United States, potentially reversing years of tit-for-tat expulsions.
However, this move, which Russia is expected to reciprocate, could provide the Kremlin with an opportunity to re-establish its intelligence operations in the US.
US and Russian officials met in Istanbul last month to explore the possibility of increasing diplomatic representation in each other&rsquo;s countries. 
Days earlier, in Riyadh, a US delegation led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with top Russian officials to discuss ensuring their embassies and consulates could function properly. &ldquo;To ensure that our diplomatic missions can function,&rdquo; Rubio told reporters.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-us-president-donald-trump-warns-of-sanctions-tariffs-on-russia-until-ceasefire-is-reached-with-ukraine-8831867">'Get to table right now': Trump warns of sanctions, tariffs on Russia 'until ceasefire is reached' with Ukraine</a>
Both Washington and Moscow suggest that normalising diplomatic operations could lay the groundwork for broader negotiations, potentially even a peace agreement to end the war in Ukraine.
<h2>Espionage risks and diplomatic advantages</h2>
Reopening diplomatic channels might also allow the US to strengthen its intelligence-gathering efforts in Russia. American embassies and consulates have long hosted intelligence operatives, but experts caution that any agreement to restore diplomatic staffing could give Russian spies a significant advantage.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-youre-chasing-a-3-year-old-jd-vance-claims-pro-ukraine-protestors-chased-him-calls-them-st-person-8835730">WATCH | Pro-Ukraine protesters chased JD Vance while he was with his 3-year-old daughter</a>
Operating in a more open society, they would have greater freedom compared to their American counterparts in Moscow, who face constant surveillance and restrictions.
Paul Kolbe, a senior fellow at Harvard&rsquo;s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, told The New York Times, &ldquo;If I were sitting in Yasenevo or Lubyanka and targeting Americans, I would be rubbing my hands with glee.&rdquo;
Kolbe further explained that Russian diplomats in the US would likely include intelligence officers seeking to infiltrate American government institutions and businesses. 
&ldquo;They will have far more access and freedom of action than American diplomats in Moscow, who will contend with 24/7 physical and technical surveillance and harassment,&rdquo; he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/my-starlink-is-backbone-of-ukrainian-army-elon-musk-warns-kyiv-would-collapse-if-he-turned-it-off-8837041">'My Starlink is backbone of Ukrainian army': Elon Musk warns Kyiv would collapse if he 'turned it off'</a>
The Trump administration&rsquo;s broader shake-up of the federal workforce could also play into the Kremlin&rsquo;s hands, Kolbe noted.
<h2>Years of diplomatic expulsions between US and Russia</h2>
US-Russia relations took a sharp downturn after Moscow interfered in the 2016 presidential election. In response, successive US presidents expelled over 100 Russian diplomats accused of espionage and shut down several Russian diplomatic facilities suspected of intelligence operations.
President Barack Obama ordered 35 Russian intelligence operatives to leave and seized two diplomatic compounds in New York and Maryland. In 2018, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/donald-trump" rel="dofollow">President Trump</a> expelled 60 more Russian diplomats and closed Russia&rsquo;s consulate in Seattle after Russian agents poisoned a former spy in the UK. 
President Joe Biden later removed another 10 Russian diplomats and a dozen suspected spies from Russia&rsquo;s UN mission following cyberattacks and Moscow&rsquo;s invasion of Ukraine.
In nearly every case, Russia retaliated with equivalent measures, expelling American diplomats and forcing the closure of US consulates. The Kremlin also barred the US Embassy in Moscow from employing local staff, leaving American diplomats to handle maintenance tasks such as cleaning floors and shovelling snow.
Today, both sides operate with minimal diplomatic presence, including significantly reduced intelligence staff. The potential reopening of diplomatic missions could restore these operations, but also rekindle espionage battles between the two nations.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Both Washington and Moscow suggest that normalising diplomatic operations could lay the groundwork for broader negotiations, potentially even a peace agreement to end the war in Ukraine.

The Trump administration is in discussions with Moscow about allowing Russian diplomats back into the United States, potentially reversing years of tit-for-tat expulsions. However, this move, which Russia is expected to reciprocate, could provide the Kremlin with an opportunity to re-establish its intelligence operations in the US. US and Russian officials met in Istanbul last month to explore the possibility of increasing diplomatic representation in each other’s countries. Days earlier, in Riyadh, a US delegation led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with top Russian officials to discuss ensuring their embassies and consulates could function properly. “To ensure that our diplomatic missions can function,” Rubio told reporters. Also read: 'Get to table right now': Trump warns of sanctions, tariffs on Russia 'until ceasefire is reached' with Ukraine Both Washington and Moscow suggest that normalising diplomatic operations could lay the groundwork for broader negotiations, potentially even a peace agreement to end the war in Ukraine. Espionage risks and diplomatic advantages Reopening diplomatic channels might also allow the US to strengthen its intelligence-gathering efforts in Russia. American embassies and consulates have long hosted intelligence operatives, but experts caution that any agreement to restore diplomatic staffing could give Russian spies a significant advantage. Also read: WATCH | Pro-Ukraine protesters chased JD Vance while he was with his 3-year-old daughter Operating in a more open society, they would have greater freedom compared to their American counterparts in Moscow, who face constant surveillance and restrictions. Paul Kolbe, a senior fellow at Harvard’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, told The New York Times, “If I were sitting in Yasenevo or Lubyanka and targeting Americans, I would be rubbing my hands with glee.” Kolbe further explained that Russian diplomats in the US would likely include intelligence officers seeking to infiltrate American government institutions and businesses. “They will have far more access and freedom of action than American diplomats in Moscow, who will contend with 24/7 physical and technical surveillance and harassment,” he said. Also read: 'My Starlink is backbone of Ukrainian army': Elon Musk warns Kyiv would collapse if he 'turned it off' The Trump administration’s broader shake-up of the federal workforce could also play into the Kremlin’s hands, Kolbe noted. Years of diplomatic expulsions between US and Russia US-Russia relations took a sharp downturn after Moscow interfered in the 2016 presidential election. In response, successive US presidents expelled over 100 Russian diplomats accused of espionage and shut down several Russian diplomatic facilities suspected of intelligence operations. President Barack Obama ordered 35 Russian intelligence operatives to leave and seized two diplomatic compounds in New York and Maryland. In 2018, President Trump expelled 60 more Russian diplomats and closed Russia’s consulate in Seattle after Russian agents poisoned a former spy in the UK. President Joe Biden later removed another 10 Russian diplomats and a dozen suspected spies from Russia’s UN mission following cyberattacks and Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. In nearly every case, Russia retaliated with equivalent measures, expelling American diplomats and forcing the closure of US consulates. The Kremlin also barred the US Embassy in Moscow from employing local staff, leaving American diplomats to handle maintenance tasks such as cleaning floors and shovelling snow. Today, both sides operate with minimal diplomatic presence, including significantly reduced intelligence staff. The potential reopening of diplomatic missions could restore these operations, but also rekindle espionage battles between the two nations. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Rubbing hands with glee’: Trump's Russia reset raises espionage risk as US considers allowing diplomats back in

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned Russia's latest missile attacks, which claimed at least 12 lives, adding that Moscow's objectives remain unchanged and that tougher sanctions are necessary.
"Such strikes show that Russia's goals are unchanged," Zelensky said on social media platform X. 
"Therefore, it is very important to continue to do everything to protect life, strengthen our air defence, and increase sanctions against Russia. Everything that helps Putin finance the war must collapse," he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-difficult-to-deal-with-ukraine-trump-complains-about-zelensky-says-easier-to-deal-with-russia-8832284" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'More difficult to deal with Ukraine': Trump complains about Zelensky, says easier to deal with Russia</a>
According to Zelensky, the Russian military targeted the centre of Dobropillya in Ukraine&rsquo;s eastern Donetsk region with two ballistic missiles on Friday night. The second strike, he claimed, deliberately hit rescuers who had responded to the initial attack.
"This is a vile and inhumane intimidation tactic often used by the Russians," he said.
The attack resulted in significant casualties, with at least 11 people confirmed dead at the time of his statement. "My condolences to their families and loved ones," Zelensky added. He further reported that more than 30 people, including five children, were injured. Several buildings, including apartment complexes and an administrative facility, sustained damage, along with a fire truck.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainians-built-up-trust-zelenskys-approval-rating-surges-to-68-per-cent-after-showdown-with-trump-8831282">Zelensky's approval rating surges to 68 per cent after showdown with Trump</a>
<h2>Trump says Ukraine 'doesn&rsquo;t have the cards'</h2>
Meanwhile, US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/donald-trump" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> on Friday said, &ldquo;I&rsquo;m finding it more difficult, frankly, to deal with Ukraine, and they don&rsquo;t have the cards.&rdquo;
He also spoke about his diplomatic efforts to end the war, saying that he is trying to assist Ukraine while maintaining pressure on Russia through sanctions and tariffs. "Ukraine has to get on the ball and get a job done," he told reporters.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-putin-did-what-anybody-would-do-after-russias-massive-strike-on-ukraine-8832593">Donald Trump says Putin did 'what anybody would do' after Russia's massive strike on Ukraine</a>
Earlier on Friday, Trump posted on Truth Social, warning of large-scale sanctions and tariffs against Russia until a ceasefire and peace agreement is reached.
"To Russia and Ukraine, get to the table right now, before it is too late. Thank you!!!" he wrote, adding that Russia is currently "absolutely pounding" Ukraine on the battlefield.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: "Such strikes show that Russia's goals are unchanged. Everything that helps Putin finance the war must collapse," Zelensky said on social media platform X.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned Russia's latest missile attacks, which claimed at least 12 lives, adding that Moscow's objectives remain unchanged and that tougher sanctions are necessary. "Such strikes show that Russia's goals are unchanged," Zelensky said on social media platform X. "Therefore, it is very important to continue to do everything to protect life, strengthen our air defence, and increase sanctions against Russia. Everything that helps Putin finance the war must collapse," he added. Also read: 'More difficult to deal with Ukraine': Trump complains about Zelensky, says easier to deal with Russia According to Zelensky, the Russian military targeted the centre of Dobropillya in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region with two ballistic missiles on Friday night. The second strike, he claimed, deliberately hit rescuers who had responded to the initial attack. "This is a vile and inhumane intimidation tactic often used by the Russians," he said. The attack resulted in significant casualties, with at least 11 people confirmed dead at the time of his statement. "My condolences to their families and loved ones," Zelensky added. He further reported that more than 30 people, including five children, were injured. Several buildings, including apartment complexes and an administrative facility, sustained damage, along with a fire truck. Also read: Zelensky's approval rating surges to 68 per cent after showdown with Trump Trump says Ukraine 'doesn’t have the cards' Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump on Friday said, “I’m finding it more difficult, frankly, to deal with Ukraine, and they don’t have the cards.” He also spoke about his diplomatic efforts to end the war, saying that he is trying to assist Ukraine while maintaining pressure on Russia through sanctions and tariffs. "Ukraine has to get on the ball and get a job done," he told reporters. Also read: Donald Trump says Putin did 'what anybody would do' after Russia's massive strike on Ukraine Earlier on Friday, Trump posted on Truth Social, warning of large-scale sanctions and tariffs against Russia until a ceasefire and peace agreement is reached. "To Russia and Ukraine, get to the table right now, before it is too late. Thank you!!!" he wrote, adding that Russia is currently "absolutely pounding" Ukraine on the battlefield. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Everything that helps Putin must collapse’: Zelensky says ‘Russia’s goals unchanged’ after airstrike kills 12

Russia is open to discussing a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine, provided there is clear progress towards a lasting peace agreement, according to a report by Bloomberg.&nbsp;This marks the first indication of a positive response from President Vladimir Putin to US counterpart Donald Trump&rsquo;s call for a ceasefire.&nbsp;
As per Bloomberg, the proposal was reportedly conveyed during talks between Russian and American officials in Saudi Arabia last month.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-us-president-donald-trump-warns-of-sanctions-tariffs-on-russia-until-ceasefire-is-reached-with-ukraine-8831867" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Get to table right now': Trump warns of sanctions, tariffs on Russia 'until ceasefire is reached' with Ukraine</a>
For Russia to agree to a ceasefire agreement, key principles of a final peace settlement must be established, according to the report. Another source told Bloomberg that Moscow would particularly insist on defining the parameters of any future peacekeeping mission, including which nations would be involved.
This report comes hours after US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/donald-trump" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> warned of large-scale sanctions and tariffs on Russia until a ceasefire and peace agreement is reached with Ukraine.
"Based on the fact that Russia is absolutely &ldquo;pounding&rdquo; Ukraine on the battlefield right now, I am strongly considering large scale Banking Sanctions, Sanctions, and Tariffs on Russia until a Cease Fire and FINAL SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT ON PEACE IS REACHED. To Russia and Ukraine, get to the table right now, before it is too late. Thank you!!!" he wrote.
These developments come as the US and Ukraine prepare to hold their first direct talks since Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's meeting with Trump at the White House last week. US special envoy Steve Witkoff said that the upcoming meeting in Saudi Arabia aims to establish &ldquo;a framework for a peace agreement and an initial ceasefire.&rdquo;
Kremlin has not commented on the reports, with spokesman Dmitry Peskov declining to respond to requests for confirmation.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alarming-trump-wanted-original-us-declaration-of-independence-as-oval-office-decoration-what-is-it-8831412">'Alarming': Trump wanted 'original' US Declaration of Independence as Oval Office&nbsp;decoration.&nbsp;What&nbsp;is&nbsp;it?</a>
Russia has made it clear that it will not accept NATO troops on Ukrainian soil, rejecting a European proposal to form a &ldquo;coalition of the willing&rdquo; to oversee any peace agreement. However, Moscow does not oppose the deployment of forces from neutral countries such as China, according to the Bloomberg report.
Since taking office on 20 January, Trump has shifted US policy on the war, seeking to bring a rapid resolution to what has become Europe&rsquo;s most significant conflict in 80 years.
Last month, he held phone talks with Putin, during which they agreed to a future summit, though no date has been set. Trump has also dropped US backing for Ukraine&rsquo;s potential NATO membership, with senior officials stating that regaining all Ukrainian territory lost to Russia since 2014 is now seen as unrealistic.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-halts-all-federal-funding-to-terrible-south-africa-invites-farmers-to-us-assures-rapid-citizenship-8831883">Trump halts all federal funding to 'terrible' South Africa; invites farmers to US, assures 'rapid citizenship'</a>
Following his heated exchange with Zelenskiy in Washington, Trump paused military aid to Ukraine and suspended certain intelligence-sharing arrangements with Kyiv.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: This report comes hours after US President Donald Trump warned of large-scale sanctions and tariffs on Russia until a ceasefire and peace agreement is reached with Ukraine.

Russia is open to discussing a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine, provided there is clear progress towards a lasting peace agreement, according to a report by Bloomberg. This marks the first indication of a positive response from President Vladimir Putin to US counterpart Donald Trump’s call for a ceasefire. As per Bloomberg, the proposal was reportedly conveyed during talks between Russian and American officials in Saudi Arabia last month. Also read: 'Get to table right now': Trump warns of sanctions, tariffs on Russia 'until ceasefire is reached' with Ukraine For Russia to agree to a ceasefire agreement, key principles of a final peace settlement must be established, according to the report. Another source told Bloomberg that Moscow would particularly insist on defining the parameters of any future peacekeeping mission, including which nations would be involved. This report comes hours after US President Donald Trump warned of large-scale sanctions and tariffs on Russia until a ceasefire and peace agreement is reached with Ukraine. "Based on the fact that Russia is absolutely “pounding” Ukraine on the battlefield right now, I am strongly considering large scale Banking Sanctions, Sanctions, and Tariffs on Russia until a Cease Fire and FINAL SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT ON PEACE IS REACHED. To Russia and Ukraine, get to the table right now, before it is too late. Thank you!!!" he wrote. These developments come as the US and Ukraine prepare to hold their first direct talks since Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's meeting with Trump at the White House last week. US special envoy Steve Witkoff said that the upcoming meeting in Saudi Arabia aims to establish “a framework for a peace agreement and an initial ceasefire.” Kremlin has not commented on the reports, with spokesman Dmitry Peskov declining to respond to requests for confirmation. Also read: 'Alarming': Trump wanted 'original' US Declaration of Independence as Oval Office decoration. What is it? Russia has made it clear that it will not accept NATO troops on Ukrainian soil, rejecting a European proposal to form a “coalition of the willing” to oversee any peace agreement. However, Moscow does not oppose the deployment of forces from neutral countries such as China, according to the Bloomberg report. Since taking office on 20 January, Trump has shifted US policy on the war, seeking to bring a rapid resolution to what has become Europe’s most significant conflict in 80 years. Last month, he held phone talks with Putin, during which they agreed to a future summit, though no date has been set. Trump has also dropped US backing for Ukraine’s potential NATO membership, with senior officials stating that regaining all Ukrainian territory lost to Russia since 2014 is now seen as unrealistic. Also read: Trump halts all federal funding to 'terrible' South Africa; invites farmers to US, assures 'rapid citizenship' Following his heated exchange with Zelenskiy in Washington, Trump paused military aid to Ukraine and suspended certain intelligence-sharing arrangements with Kyiv. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine ceasefire breakthrough? Putin open to truce, but only if he gets his way

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/donald-trump" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> on Friday (March 7) warned of large-scale sanctions and tariffs on Russia until a ceasefire and peace agreement is reached with Ukraine.
"Based on the fact that Russia is absolutely &ldquo;pounding&rdquo; Ukraine on the battlefield right now, I am strongly considering large-scale Banking Sanctions, Sanctions, and Tariffs on Russia until a cease-fire and FINAL SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT ON PEACE IS REACHED. To Russia and Ukraine, get to the table right now, before it is too late. Thank you!!!" Trump wrote on his social media platform Truth Social.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7ywdgq2-lcopc4hz-r9li33y6">
"Based on the fact that Russia is absolutely 'pounding' Ukraine on the battlefield right now, I am strongly considering large scale Banking Sanctions, Sanctions, and Tariffs on Russia until a Cease Fire and FINAL SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT ON PEACE IS REACHED. To Russia and Ukraine,&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/kwrfbaQw4d">pic.twitter.com/kwrfbaQw4d</a>
&mdash; President Donald J. Trump (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1898018679956074752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainians-built-up-trust-zelenskys-approval-rating-surges-to-68-per-cent-after-showdown-with-trump-8831282">Zelensky's approval rating surges to 68 per cent after showdown with Trump</a>
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had earlier warned that the US will go all out on sanctions on Russian energy if it helps lead to a ceasefire.&nbsp;
His warning comes just days before members of his administration are scheduled to meet Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia to discuss possible steps towards ending the war. The same officials had previously held talks with their Russian counterparts in Riyadh last month.
Trump has previously engaged in discussions with both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the ongoing conflict.
However, his approach towards Zelensky has been noticeably more critical. The United States has also halted military aid and intelligence sharing with Kyiv, further straining relations between the two nations.
<h2>Largescale attack on Ukrainian energy and gas infrastructure</h2>
Tensions escalated following a missile attack by Russian forces, which targeted Ukrainian energy and gas infrastructure overnight. This marked the first major assault since the US decided to pause intelligence-sharing with Ukraine.
Reacting to the attack, Zelensky wrote on Telegram,&nbsp;"The first steps to establishing real peace should be forcing the sole source of this war, Russia, to stop such attacks."
According to Ukraine&rsquo;s air force, Russia launched a barrage of 67 missiles and 194 drones in the overnight assault. Ukrainian forces managed to intercept 34 missiles and 100 drones.
Relations between Ukraine and the US, once Kyiv&rsquo;s most significant ally, have hit a new low following a tense exchange between Zelensky and Trump in the Oval Office last week, which was broadcast on live television.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: "Based on the fact that Russia is absolutely “pounding” Ukraine on the battlefield right now, I am strongly considering large-scale Banking Sanctions, Sanctions, and Tariffs on Russia," Trump wrote.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (March 7) warned of large-scale sanctions and tariffs on Russia until a ceasefire and peace agreement is reached with Ukraine. "Based on the fact that Russia is absolutely “pounding” Ukraine on the battlefield right now, I am strongly considering large-scale Banking Sanctions, Sanctions, and Tariffs on Russia until a cease-fire and FINAL SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT ON PEACE IS REACHED. To Russia and Ukraine, get to the table right now, before it is too late. Thank you!!!" Trump wrote on his social media platform Truth Social. "Based on the fact that Russia is absolutely 'pounding' Ukraine on the battlefield right now, I am strongly considering large scale Banking Sanctions, Sanctions, and Tariffs on Russia until a Cease Fire and FINAL SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT ON PEACE IS REACHED. To Russia and Ukraine,… pic.twitter.com/kwrfbaQw4d — President Donald J. Trump (@POTUS) March 7, 2025 Also read: Zelensky's approval rating surges to 68 per cent after showdown with Trump US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had earlier warned that the US will go all out on sanctions on Russian energy if it helps lead to a ceasefire. His warning comes just days before members of his administration are scheduled to meet Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia to discuss possible steps towards ending the war. The same officials had previously held talks with their Russian counterparts in Riyadh last month. Trump has previously engaged in discussions with both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the ongoing conflict. However, his approach towards Zelensky has been noticeably more critical. The United States has also halted military aid and intelligence sharing with Kyiv, further straining relations between the two nations. Largescale attack on Ukrainian energy and gas infrastructure Tensions escalated following a missile attack by Russian forces, which targeted Ukrainian energy and gas infrastructure overnight. This marked the first major assault since the US decided to pause intelligence-sharing with Ukraine. Reacting to the attack, Zelensky wrote on Telegram, "The first steps to establishing real peace should be forcing the sole source of this war, Russia, to stop such attacks." According to Ukraine’s air force, Russia launched a barrage of 67 missiles and 194 drones in the overnight assault. Ukrainian forces managed to intercept 34 missiles and 100 drones. Relations between Ukraine and the US, once Kyiv’s most significant ally, have hit a new low following a tense exchange between Zelensky and Trump in the Oval Office last week, which was broadcast on live television. (With inputs from agencies)

'Get to table right now': Trump warns of sanctions, tariffs on Russia 'until ceasefire is reached' with Ukraine

Russian forces are persistently attempting to gain a foothold across the Dnipro River in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deeply-disrespectful-uk-mps-demand-apology-from-jd-vance-accuse-him-of-erasing-history-8778389">Ukraine</a>, sending troops on high-risk missions to secure territory for potential peace talks, according to a report by The Guardian.
Oleksandr Prokudin, the Ukrainian governor of the Kherson region, said that Russian troops were attempting to cross the river at four different points. He suggested that these efforts were aimed at justifying Moscow&rsquo;s claim over the entire oblast, one of four Ukrainian regions that Russia has declared it intends to annex.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-when-russians-hide-north-koreans-shoot-how-pyongyangs-troops-are-reshaping-8633581">'When Russians hide, North Koreans&nbsp;shoot': How Pyongyang's troops are reshaping Russia-Ukraine war</a>
<h2>'At any cost'</h2>
&ldquo;Every single day they are trying to cross. We heard from our intelligence that the Russian deputy commander told troops in the area that they had to force the river at any cost, though not all the soldiers are willing to do that,&rdquo; Prokudin said while visiting the UK, as reported by The Guardian.
Appointed directly by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Prokudin explained that Russian troops had been instructed to take control of a village on the western bank to use it as leverage in negotiations.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/determined-to-continue-operation-with-us-ukraine-to-not-rule-out-negotiations-after-trump-halts-military-aid-8777917">&lsquo;Determined to continue cooperation with US&rsquo;: Ukraine for negotiations after Trump halts military aid</a>
&ldquo;The Russians completely understand it is a suicidal mission,&rdquo; he said. He added that documents recovered from Russian troops showed that some were fresh recruits, while others had been fighting in Ukraine for over two years.
Russia initially took control of most of the Kherson region, spanning both sides of the Dnipro, early in the war. However, in November 2022, its forces were forced to withdraw from the west bank, including the city of Kherson, as maintaining supply lines became unsustainable.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-outfit-real-americas-voice-brian-glenn-marjorie-taylor-greene-8778009">&lsquo;They will harm me&rsquo;: US reporter who questioned Zelensky&rsquo;s outfit claims getting &lsquo;thousands of death threats&rsquo;</a>
Just weeks before that retreat, Russian President Vladimir Putin unilaterally declared the annexation of the entire region, along with three others, saying that residents there were &ldquo;our citizens for ever.&rdquo;
Prokudin said he believes Russia is trying to maintain a presence on the western bank to reinforce its territorial claims. &ldquo;They are trying to tick a box to show that &lsquo;we are present on the right bank&rsquo;,&rdquo; he said, adding that the efforts have increased amid ongoing discussions about a truce.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: “Every single day they are trying to cross. We heard from our intelligence that the Russian deputy commander told troops in the area that they had to force the river at any cost,” Ukrainian Governor said.

Russian forces are persistently attempting to gain a foothold across the Dnipro River in Ukraine, sending troops on high-risk missions to secure territory for potential peace talks, according to a report by The Guardian. Oleksandr Prokudin, the Ukrainian governor of the Kherson region, said that Russian troops were attempting to cross the river at four different points. He suggested that these efforts were aimed at justifying Moscow’s claim over the entire oblast, one of four Ukrainian regions that Russia has declared it intends to annex. Also read: 'When Russians hide, North Koreans shoot': How Pyongyang's troops are reshaping Russia-Ukraine war 'At any cost' “Every single day they are trying to cross. We heard from our intelligence that the Russian deputy commander told troops in the area that they had to force the river at any cost, though not all the soldiers are willing to do that,” Prokudin said while visiting the UK, as reported by The Guardian. Appointed directly by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Prokudin explained that Russian troops had been instructed to take control of a village on the western bank to use it as leverage in negotiations. Also read: ‘Determined to continue cooperation with US’: Ukraine for negotiations after Trump halts military aid “The Russians completely understand it is a suicidal mission,” he said. He added that documents recovered from Russian troops showed that some were fresh recruits, while others had been fighting in Ukraine for over two years. Russia initially took control of most of the Kherson region, spanning both sides of the Dnipro, early in the war. However, in November 2022, its forces were forced to withdraw from the west bank, including the city of Kherson, as maintaining supply lines became unsustainable. Also read: ‘They will harm me’: US reporter who questioned Zelensky’s outfit claims getting ‘thousands of death threats’ Just weeks before that retreat, Russian President Vladimir Putin unilaterally declared the annexation of the entire region, along with three others, saying that residents there were “our citizens for ever.” Prokudin said he believes Russia is trying to maintain a presence on the western bank to reinforce its territorial claims. “They are trying to tick a box to show that ‘we are present on the right bank’,” he said, adding that the efforts have increased amid ongoing discussions about a truce. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin ‘trying to tick a box’: Russia sends troops on ‘suicide missions’ to seize Ukrainian land ahead of talks

Russia on Saturday (March 1) labelled Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky&rsquo;s visit to the United States a diplomatic disaster after his meeting with former US President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/donald-trump" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump</a> descended into a heated argument.
Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for Russia&rsquo;s foreign ministry, strongly criticised Zelensky, calling his conduct in Washington &ldquo;outrageously boorish&rdquo; and accusing him of being &ldquo;the most dangerous threat to the world community as an irresponsible warmonger.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-china-want-to-hire-federal-employees-elon-musk-doge-us-president-donald-trumps-cost-cutting-efforts-8768824" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Bitter, out of job': Russia, China want to hire federal employees laid off under Trump's cost-cutting&nbsp;efforts</a>
Zakharova went on to claim that Zelensky was &ldquo;obsessed&rdquo; with continuing the war, insisting that Russia&rsquo;s objectives in Ukraine remained unchanged. &ldquo;Russia&rsquo;s unchanging goals remain the demilitarisation and denazification of Ukraine, as well as the recognition of the existing realities on the ground,&rdquo; she said.
&ldquo;The visit of the head of the neo-Nazi regime, V. Zelensky, to Washington on February 28 is a complete political and diplomatic failure of the Kyiv regime,&rdquo; she further said. Moscow has repeatedly accused Ukraine of harbouring &ldquo;neo-Nazism,&rdquo; a claim dismissed by Western nations and Kyiv as baseless propaganda.
<h2>Zelensky clashes with Trump and Vance</h2>
During his visit, Zelensky was expected to finalise a minerals agreement with the US. However, the talks reportedly turned confrontational, with Trump and Vice President JD Vance accusing the Ukrainian leader of being &ldquo;disrespectful.&rdquo; 
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/grateful-to-us-trump-immensely-thankful-zelensky-hints-at-being-friends-with-trump-after-ugly-wh-spat-8768650">'Grateful to US, Trump': 'Immensely' thankful Zelensky, hints at being friends with Trump after ugly WH&nbsp;spat</a>
<h2>European leaders rally behind Zelensky</h2>
Despite the tensions in Washington, Zelensky continues to receive strong backing from European leaders. German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier was highly critical of Trump&rsquo;s handling of the meeting, calling the incident in the Oval Office deeply troubling.
&ldquo;Diplomacy fails when negotiating partners are humiliated in front of the whole world,&rdquo; Steinmeier told Germany&rsquo;s DPA news agency. 
&ldquo;The scene in the White House yesterday took my breath away. I would never have believed that we would one day have to protect Ukraine from the USA,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-arrives-in-uk-after-dismal-meeting-with-trump-at-white-house-8768660">Ukraine's Zelensky arrives in UK after dismal meeting with Trump at White House</a>
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Ant&oacute;nio Costa also assured Zelensky of their unwavering support. In a joint message on social media, they encouraged him to stay strong. &ldquo;Be strong, be brave, be fearless,&rdquo; they wrote, vowing to continue working towards a just and lasting peace.
French President Emmanuel Macron reiterated that Russia was the true aggressor in the war and defended the decision to support Ukraine. &ldquo;We were all right to help Ukraine and sanction Russia three years ago and to continue to do so,&rdquo; Macron said. Responding to Trump&rsquo;s accusations that Zelensky was dragging the world towards another global conflict, Macron countered, &ldquo;If anyone is playing at world war three, it&rsquo;s Vladimir Putin.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Spokesperson for Russia’s foreign ministry, strongly criticised Zelensky, calling his conduct in Washington “outrageously boorish” and accusing him of being “the most dangerous threat to the world community."

Russia on Saturday (March 1) labelled Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to the United States a diplomatic disaster after his meeting with former US President Donald Trump descended into a heated argument. Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for Russia’s foreign ministry, strongly criticised Zelensky, calling his conduct in Washington “outrageously boorish” and accusing him of being “the most dangerous threat to the world community as an irresponsible warmonger.” Also read: 'Bitter, out of job': Russia, China want to hire federal employees laid off under Trump's cost-cutting efforts Zakharova went on to claim that Zelensky was “obsessed” with continuing the war, insisting that Russia’s objectives in Ukraine remained unchanged. “Russia’s unchanging goals remain the demilitarisation and denazification of Ukraine, as well as the recognition of the existing realities on the ground,” she said. “The visit of the head of the neo-Nazi regime, V. Zelensky, to Washington on February 28 is a complete political and diplomatic failure of the Kyiv regime,” she further said. Moscow has repeatedly accused Ukraine of harbouring “neo-Nazism,” a claim dismissed by Western nations and Kyiv as baseless propaganda. Zelensky clashes with Trump and Vance During his visit, Zelensky was expected to finalise a minerals agreement with the US. However, the talks reportedly turned confrontational, with Trump and Vice President JD Vance accusing the Ukrainian leader of being “disrespectful.” Also read: 'Grateful to US, Trump': 'Immensely' thankful Zelensky, hints at being friends with Trump after ugly WH spat European leaders rally behind Zelensky Despite the tensions in Washington, Zelensky continues to receive strong backing from European leaders. German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier was highly critical of Trump’s handling of the meeting, calling the incident in the Oval Office deeply troubling. “Diplomacy fails when negotiating partners are humiliated in front of the whole world,” Steinmeier told Germany’s DPA news agency. “The scene in the White House yesterday took my breath away. I would never have believed that we would one day have to protect Ukraine from the USA,” he added. Also read: Ukraine's Zelensky arrives in UK after dismal meeting with Trump at White House European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa also assured Zelensky of their unwavering support. In a joint message on social media, they encouraged him to stay strong. “Be strong, be brave, be fearless,” they wrote, vowing to continue working towards a just and lasting peace. French President Emmanuel Macron reiterated that Russia was the true aggressor in the war and defended the decision to support Ukraine. “We were all right to help Ukraine and sanction Russia three years ago and to continue to do so,” Macron said. Responding to Trump’s accusations that Zelensky was dragging the world towards another global conflict, Macron countered, “If anyone is playing at world war three, it’s Vladimir Putin.” (With inputs from agencies)

'Irresponsible warmonger': Russia labels Zelensky's 'historic' meeting with Trump 'complete failure'

A witness from Donald Trump&rsquo;s first impeachment has suggested that the former US president may have been compromised by Russia. This comes as Trump and Zelensky are meeting in Washington to discuss mineral deal, ceasefire and more.
Alexander Vindman, a retired US Army lieutenant colonel who testified against Trump in 2019, voiced his concerns during an interview with MSNBC&rsquo;s Morning Joe on Tuesday (28 February). He accused Trump of betraying Ukraine to serve Russian President Vladimir Putin&rsquo;s interests.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelenskyy-meeting-today-live-news-updates-from-white-house-washington-to-sign-minerals-deal-8766345">Trump Zelensky meeting LIVE: Trump welcomes Ukraine's Zelensky to White House</a>
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s disgusting &ndash; up is down, down is up,&rdquo; Vindman said.
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m not big into conspiracies because I see government as a leaky sieve &ndash; things just don&rsquo;t stay secret. But now I&rsquo;m starting to wonder, what does Putin have on Trump that he&rsquo;s willing to bend over so hard, to bend over backwards to really support Putin&rsquo;s agenda? It doesn&rsquo;t make a huge amount of sense. He&rsquo;s not getting anything for it right now. He&rsquo;s giving away the farm,&rdquo; he added.
<h2>Trump&rsquo;s first impeachment</h2>
Trump was impeached in 2019 over allegations that he withheld nearly $400 million in US military aid to Ukraine while pressursing its president, Volodymyr Zelensky, to investigate Joe Biden, then a former vice president, and his son, Hunter. The inquiry centred on Trump&rsquo;s claim that Biden had influenced the dismissal of a Ukrainian prosecutor who was investigating Burisma, an energy company where Hunter Biden sat on the board. However, no solid evidence of wrongdoing by either Biden ever surfaced.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdom-international-development-minister-anneliese-dodds-resignation-uk-pm-keir-starmer-foreign-aid-cut-8766313">'Following Trump's footsteps': UK minister resigns over Keir Starmer's historic foreign aid cut</a>
<h2>Questions over Trump&rsquo;s stance on Ukraine</h2>
Vindman pointed out that Trump has insisted on controlling half of Ukraine&rsquo;s natural resources and key infrastructure in exchange for peace, yet he has made no demands of Russia and refuses to hold Putin accountable for the 2022 invasion.
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m not sure what kind of deal he&rsquo;s making, where he&rsquo;s giving everything that his opponent wants, nothing in return&mdash;maybe the promise, the dangle of something in the future,&rdquo; Vindman said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-time-in-us-history-trump-to-sign-executive-order-making-english-the-official-us-language-8766517">First time in US history: Trump to sign executive order making English the official US language</a>
&ldquo;But he&rsquo;s not getting anything. He&rsquo;s voting against Ukraine, our allies in NATO, he&rsquo;s calling Zelensky a dictator. He&rsquo;s glad-handing and saying he&rsquo;s going to visit Putin at the Kremlin. This is just surreal and a very, very wide departure, and it&rsquo;s really throwing a lot of folks for a loop. They don&rsquo;t know what to make of it,&rdquo; he added.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re now at the poison Kool-Aid stage of realism, that&rsquo;s what you get with Donald Trump,&rdquo; he said.
<h2>Ukraine&rsquo;s position</h2>
Vindman argued that Ukraine has already made significant compromises in an effort to end the war but will not surrender its sovereignty.
&ldquo;The Ukrainians are willing to bend over backwards also, they&rsquo;re willing to compromise maximally to end this war, but they&rsquo;re not going to give up their sovereignty,&rdquo; he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-preisdent-donald-trump-cancelled-ukraines-zelenskys-washington-visit-until-french-president-macron-stepped-in-to-save-the-day-8765534">&lsquo;Don&rsquo;t come&rsquo;: Trump cancelled Zelensky&rsquo;s Washington visit until Macron stepped in to save the day</a>
He added that pressure should be placed on Russia to negotiate, as its economy is fragile and the right mix of sanctions and battlefield successes could force Putin to the table. However, Vindman claimed that instead of increasing pressure on Russia, Trump&rsquo;s approach is relieving it and shifting the burden onto Zelensky.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump was impeached in 2019 over allegations that he withheld nearly $400 million in US military aid to Ukraine while pressuring its president, Volodymyr Zelensky, to investigate Joe Biden, then a former vice president, and his son, Hunter.

A witness from Donald Trump’s first impeachment has suggested that the former US president may have been compromised by Russia. This comes as Trump and Zelensky are meeting in Washington to discuss mineral deal, ceasefire and more. Alexander Vindman, a retired US Army lieutenant colonel who testified against Trump in 2019, voiced his concerns during an interview with MSNBC’s Morning Joe on Tuesday (28 February). He accused Trump of betraying Ukraine to serve Russian President Vladimir Putin’s interests. Also read: Trump Zelensky meeting LIVE: Trump welcomes Ukraine's Zelensky to White House “It’s disgusting – up is down, down is up,” Vindman said. “I’m not big into conspiracies because I see government as a leaky sieve – things just don’t stay secret. But now I’m starting to wonder, what does Putin have on Trump that he’s willing to bend over so hard, to bend over backwards to really support Putin’s agenda? It doesn’t make a huge amount of sense. He’s not getting anything for it right now. He’s giving away the farm,” he added. Trump’s first impeachment Trump was impeached in 2019 over allegations that he withheld nearly $400 million in US military aid to Ukraine while pressursing its president, Volodymyr Zelensky, to investigate Joe Biden, then a former vice president, and his son, Hunter. The inquiry centred on Trump’s claim that Biden had influenced the dismissal of a Ukrainian prosecutor who was investigating Burisma, an energy company where Hunter Biden sat on the board. However, no solid evidence of wrongdoing by either Biden ever surfaced. Also read: 'Following Trump's footsteps': UK minister resigns over Keir Starmer's historic foreign aid cut Questions over Trump’s stance on Ukraine Vindman pointed out that Trump has insisted on controlling half of Ukraine’s natural resources and key infrastructure in exchange for peace, yet he has made no demands of Russia and refuses to hold Putin accountable for the 2022 invasion. “I’m not sure what kind of deal he’s making, where he’s giving everything that his opponent wants, nothing in return—maybe the promise, the dangle of something in the future,” Vindman said. Also read: First time in US history: Trump to sign executive order making English the official US language “But he’s not getting anything. He’s voting against Ukraine, our allies in NATO, he’s calling Zelensky a dictator. He’s glad-handing and saying he’s going to visit Putin at the Kremlin. This is just surreal and a very, very wide departure, and it’s really throwing a lot of folks for a loop. They don’t know what to make of it,” he added. “We’re now at the poison Kool-Aid stage of realism, that’s what you get with Donald Trump,” he said. Ukraine’s position Vindman argued that Ukraine has already made significant compromises in an effort to end the war but will not surrender its sovereignty. “The Ukrainians are willing to bend over backwards also, they’re willing to compromise maximally to end this war, but they’re not going to give up their sovereignty,” he said. Also read: ‘Don’t come’: Trump cancelled Zelensky’s Washington visit until Macron stepped in to save the day He added that pressure should be placed on Russia to negotiate, as its economy is fragile and the right mix of sanctions and battlefield successes could force Putin to the table. However, Vindman claimed that instead of increasing pressure on Russia, Trump’s approach is relieving it and shifting the burden onto Zelensky. (With inputs from agencies)

‘What does Putin have on him?’ Key witness accuses Trump of betraying Zelensky as both leaders meet

US President Donald Trump said on Friday (Feb 21) that he does not see Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a key player in negotiations to end Russia-Ukraine war.
"I don't think he's very important to be in meetings," Trump said in an interview with Fox News.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-zelensky-will-sign-minerals-deal-soon-after-rejection-why-does-trump-want-ukraines-rare-earths-8744807" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">US says Zelensky will sign minerals deal 'soon' after rejection: Why does Trump want Ukraine's&nbsp;'rare&nbsp;earths'?</a>
"He's been there for three years. He makes it very hard to make deals," he added.
Kyiv and European leaders have voiced frustration after Trump-backed talks between US and Russian officials took place in Saudi Arabia earlier this week without Ukraine&rsquo;s involvement.
"He complains that he's not in a meeting that we're having with Saudi Arabia trying to intermediate peace. He's been in a meeting for three years and nothing got done," Trump said.
<h2>Trump: Russia &lsquo;attacked,&rsquo; but war could have been avoided</h2>
During the interview, Trump admitted that Russia "attacked" Ukraine but insisted that the war could have been prevented.
"Yes, Russia attacked, but there was no reason for him [Vladimir Putin] to attack," Trump said. "You could have talked him out of it. That war should have never happened," he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-zelensky-will-sign-minerals-deal-soon-after-rejection-why-does-trump-want-ukraines-rare-earths-8744807" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">US says Zelensky will sign minerals deal 'soon' after rejection: Why does Trump want Ukraine's&nbsp;'rare&nbsp;earths'?</a>
Trump also appeared to shift blame toward Biden and Zelensky. "Every time I say, 'It's not Russia's fault,' but [Joe] Biden said the wrong things, [Volodymyr] Zelensky said the wrong things, and they got attacked, which was a bad thing to do. But Russia could have been talked out of it so easily," he said.
The Fox News host pressed Trump five times on who was ultimately responsible for the war, but Trump kept deflecting.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-years-of-russia-ukraine-war-who-started-it-kremlin-or-kyiv-8741215" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Three years of Russia-Ukraine war: Who started it - Kremlin or Kyiv?</a>
<h2>Rare earth deal and US-Ukraine tensions</h2>
The interview also touched on Trump&rsquo;s frustration with Zelensky over a failed rare earth mineral deal. "I&rsquo;ve been watching him negotiate with no cards. He has no cards, and you get sick of it," Trump said.
He claimed the US had reached a rare earth minerals agreement with Ukraine, but negotiations fell apart. "We made a deal with rare earth and [the] Secretary of Treasury &mdash; very good guy, actually went there, and they couldn't even come close to getting a deal done," Trump said.
He added that he regretted sending his official to Ukraine. "Frankly, I wish he didn't go there, waste all of his time like that. It was just a wasted trip. A dangerous trip too," Trump said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-blasts-ukrainian-president-zelensky-russia-ukraine-war-putin-8737582" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Dictator Without Elections&rsquo;: Trump blasts Zelensky after &lsquo;disinformation&rsquo; dig, warns Ukraine could collapse</a>&nbsp;
<h2>Rising tensions between Trump and Zelensky</h2>
Ties between Washington and Kyiv have worsened following Trump&rsquo;s comments earlier this week, where he called Zelensky a "dictator without elections" and warned he "better move fast" or risk losing Ukraine.
Zelensky earlier accused Trump of being trapped in a "disinformation bubble" created by Russia. The Ukrainian leader also pushed back against Trump&rsquo;s claim that Ukraine relies mostly on US support. Zelensky also criticised the recent US-Russia talks, arguing that Washington was helping Putin "come out of isolation."
&ldquo;This isn&rsquo;t positive for Ukraine. What it does is put the focus back on Russia, and they are happy about that,&rdquo; he said.

World: During the interview, Trump admitted that Russia "attacked" Ukraine but insisted that the Russia-Ukraine war could have been prevented.

US President Donald Trump said on Friday (Feb 21) that he does not see Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a key player in negotiations to end Russia-Ukraine war. "I don't think he's very important to be in meetings," Trump said in an interview with Fox News. Also read: US says Zelensky will sign minerals deal 'soon' after rejection: Why does Trump want Ukraine's 'rare earths'? "He's been there for three years. He makes it very hard to make deals," he added. Kyiv and European leaders have voiced frustration after Trump-backed talks between US and Russian officials took place in Saudi Arabia earlier this week without Ukraine’s involvement. "He complains that he's not in a meeting that we're having with Saudi Arabia trying to intermediate peace. He's been in a meeting for three years and nothing got done," Trump said. Trump: Russia ‘attacked,’ but war could have been avoided During the interview, Trump admitted that Russia "attacked" Ukraine but insisted that the war could have been prevented. "Yes, Russia attacked, but there was no reason for him [Vladimir Putin] to attack," Trump said. "You could have talked him out of it. That war should have never happened," he added. Also read: US says Zelensky will sign minerals deal 'soon' after rejection: Why does Trump want Ukraine's 'rare earths'? Trump also appeared to shift blame toward Biden and Zelensky. "Every time I say, 'It's not Russia's fault,' but [Joe] Biden said the wrong things, [Volodymyr] Zelensky said the wrong things, and they got attacked, which was a bad thing to do. But Russia could have been talked out of it so easily," he said. The Fox News host pressed Trump five times on who was ultimately responsible for the war, but Trump kept deflecting. Also read: Three years of Russia-Ukraine war: Who started it - Kremlin or Kyiv? Rare earth deal and US-Ukraine tensions The interview also touched on Trump’s frustration with Zelensky over a failed rare earth mineral deal. "I’ve been watching him negotiate with no cards. He has no cards, and you get sick of it," Trump said. He claimed the US had reached a rare earth minerals agreement with Ukraine, but negotiations fell apart. "We made a deal with rare earth and [the] Secretary of Treasury — very good guy, actually went there, and they couldn't even come close to getting a deal done," Trump said. He added that he regretted sending his official to Ukraine. "Frankly, I wish he didn't go there, waste all of his time like that. It was just a wasted trip. A dangerous trip too," Trump said. Also read: ‘Dictator Without Elections’: Trump blasts Zelensky after ‘disinformation’ dig, warns Ukraine could collapse Rising tensions between Trump and Zelensky Ties between Washington and Kyiv have worsened following Trump’s comments earlier this week, where he called Zelensky a "dictator without elections" and warned he "better move fast" or risk losing Ukraine. Zelensky earlier accused Trump of being trapped in a "disinformation bubble" created by Russia. The Ukrainian leader also pushed back against Trump’s claim that Ukraine relies mostly on US support. Zelensky also criticised the recent US-Russia talks, arguing that Washington was helping Putin "come out of isolation." “This isn’t positive for Ukraine. What it does is put the focus back on Russia, and they are happy about that,” he said.

‘He's not important’: Trump dismisses Zelensky’s role in Ukraine talks, says war wasn’t ‘Russia’s fault’

US President Donald Trump launched a scathing attack on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday, calling him a &ldquo;modestly successful comedian&rdquo; and a &ldquo;dictator without elections.&rdquo;
This comes after Trump previously suggested that Ukraine had started the war and pushed for elections in the country. Speaking after recent US-Russia talks on the Ukraine war, Trump questioned the absence of elections in Ukraine.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-years-of-russia-ukraine-war-who-started-it-kremlin-or-kyiv-8741215" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Three years of Russia-Ukraine war: Who started it - Kremlin or Kyiv?</a>
"When they want a seat at the table, you could say the people have to&hellip; wouldn&rsquo;t the people of Ukraine have to say, like, &lsquo;You know, it&rsquo;s been a long time since we&rsquo;ve had an election,&rsquo;&rdquo; Trump said.
He further claimed, &ldquo;We have a situation where we haven&rsquo;t had elections in Ukraine, where we have martial law in Ukraine, where the leader in Ukraine&mdash;I mean, I hate to say it, but he&rsquo;s down at four per cent approval rating&mdash;and the country&rsquo;s been blown to smithereens.&rdquo;
Trump&rsquo;s comments prompted Ukraine&rsquo;s European allies to show their support for Zelensky. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called Zelensky Ukraine&rsquo;s &ldquo;democratically elected leader&rdquo; and defended the decision to postpone elections. &ldquo;It is perfectly reasonable to suspend elections during wartime, as the UK did during World War II,&rdquo; Starmer&rsquo;s office said following his call with Zelensky on February 19.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-why-ukrainian-soldiers-are-running-away-as-war-with-russia-drags-on-8679412" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Realised I&rsquo;m nobody, just a number&rsquo;: Why Ukrainian soldiers are running away as war with Russia drags on</a>
Let's take a look at the real reason behind why Ukraine hasn't held elections:
<h2>Why hasn&rsquo;t Ukraine held elections?</h2>
Under normal circumstances, Zelensky would have faced re-election in 2024. However, following Russia&rsquo;s full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine imposed martial law, which legally prevents national elections.
Ukraine&rsquo;s parliament recently extended martial law until May 9, 2025. Holding an election before the war ends would require lifting martial law, a move that Zelensky and Ukrainian lawmakers have resisted.
Last November, all political parties in Ukraine&rsquo;s parliament agreed to defer elections until the war is over. Zelensky himself has promised to hold elections once the conflict ends but insists that doing so now would be impossible.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-when-russians-hide-north-koreans-shoot-how-pyongyangs-troops-are-reshaping-8633581" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'When Russians hide, North Koreans&nbsp;shoot': How Pyongyang's troops are reshaping Russia-Ukraine war</a>
"If we suspend martial law, we will lose the army, and voting without the military is dishonest," he said earlier this month.
In addition to security concerns, millions of Ukrainians remain displaced, either as refugees abroad or within Ukraine. Up to six million more are living in Russian-occupied territories, making an election logistically difficult.
Another issue is the destruction of electoral infrastructure. Many schools and public buildings that would typically serve as polling stations have been damaged or destroyed by Russian attacks.
Even if a ceasefire were to be reached, elections would still take time. According to election watchdog Opora, there is a broad consensus that voting should not take place until at least six months after martial law is lifted.
<h2>When was Ukraine&rsquo;s last election?</h2>
Zelensky was elected in 2019 in a landslide victory against then-incumbent Petro Poroshenko. Running as the candidate for the Servant of the People party, he won by the largest second-round margin in Ukraine&rsquo;s history.
<h2>Who else questions Zelensky&rsquo;s legitimacy?</h2>
Trump is not the only one raising questions about Zelensky&rsquo;s legitimacy. Russian President Vladimir Putin has also attempted to cast doubt on his authority, particularly after his term officially expired last year.
During the US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that Putin was open to negotiations with Zelensky but added that &ldquo;legal aspects related to his legitimacy&rdquo; must be considered.
<h2>Would Zelensky win an election now?</h2>
If Ukraine were to hold an election today, current polling suggests that Zelensky would still be the frontrunner. A recent survey found that 57 per cent of Ukrainians trust him, an increase from 52 per cent in December. Another poll conducted from late November to early January showed that 63 per cent of Ukrainians either fully approved or somewhat approved of his leadership.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Under normal circumstances, Zelensky would have faced re-election in 2024. However, following Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine imposed martial law, which legally prevents national elections.

US President Donald Trump launched a scathing attack on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday, calling him a “modestly successful comedian” and a “dictator without elections.” This comes after Trump previously suggested that Ukraine had started the war and pushed for elections in the country. Speaking after recent US-Russia talks on the Ukraine war, Trump questioned the absence of elections in Ukraine. Also read: Three years of Russia-Ukraine war: Who started it - Kremlin or Kyiv? "When they want a seat at the table, you could say the people have to… wouldn’t the people of Ukraine have to say, like, ‘You know, it’s been a long time since we’ve had an election,’” Trump said. He further claimed, “We have a situation where we haven’t had elections in Ukraine, where we have martial law in Ukraine, where the leader in Ukraine—I mean, I hate to say it, but he’s down at four per cent approval rating—and the country’s been blown to smithereens.” Trump’s comments prompted Ukraine’s European allies to show their support for Zelensky. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called Zelensky Ukraine’s “democratically elected leader” and defended the decision to postpone elections. “It is perfectly reasonable to suspend elections during wartime, as the UK did during World War II,” Starmer’s office said following his call with Zelensky on February 19. Also read: ‘Realised I’m nobody, just a number’: Why Ukrainian soldiers are running away as war with Russia drags on Let's take a look at the real reason behind why Ukraine hasn't held elections: Why hasn’t Ukraine held elections? Under normal circumstances, Zelensky would have faced re-election in 2024. However, following Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine imposed martial law, which legally prevents national elections. Ukraine’s parliament recently extended martial law until May 9, 2025. Holding an election before the war ends would require lifting martial law, a move that Zelensky and Ukrainian lawmakers have resisted. Last November, all political parties in Ukraine’s parliament agreed to defer elections until the war is over. Zelensky himself has promised to hold elections once the conflict ends but insists that doing so now would be impossible. Also read: 'When Russians hide, North Koreans shoot': How Pyongyang's troops are reshaping Russia-Ukraine war "If we suspend martial law, we will lose the army, and voting without the military is dishonest," he said earlier this month. In addition to security concerns, millions of Ukrainians remain displaced, either as refugees abroad or within Ukraine. Up to six million more are living in Russian-occupied territories, making an election logistically difficult. Another issue is the destruction of electoral infrastructure. Many schools and public buildings that would typically serve as polling stations have been damaged or destroyed by Russian attacks. Even if a ceasefire were to be reached, elections would still take time. According to election watchdog Opora, there is a broad consensus that voting should not take place until at least six months after martial law is lifted. When was Ukraine’s last election? Zelensky was elected in 2019 in a landslide victory against then-incumbent Petro Poroshenko. Running as the candidate for the Servant of the People party, he won by the largest second-round margin in Ukraine’s history. Who else questions Zelensky’s legitimacy? Trump is not the only one raising questions about Zelensky’s legitimacy. Russian President Vladimir Putin has also attempted to cast doubt on his authority, particularly after his term officially expired last year. During the US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that Putin was open to negotiations with Zelensky but added that “legal aspects related to his legitimacy” must be considered. Would Zelensky win an election now? If Ukraine were to hold an election today, current polling suggests that Zelensky would still be the frontrunner. A recent survey found that 57 per cent of Ukrainians trust him, an increase from 52 per cent in December. Another poll conducted from late November to early January showed that 63 per cent of Ukrainians either fully approved or somewhat approved of his leadership. (With inputs from agencies)

Is Ukraine's Zelensky really a 'dictator without elections'? Trump’s claim vs. the reality of wartime voting

February 24 marks three years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. What Russian President Vladimir Putin initially called a &ldquo;special military operation&rdquo; has since become Europe&rsquo;s largest conflict since World War II.&nbsp;
The war has claimed tens of thousands of lives on both sides, displaced millions of Ukrainians, and pushed Russia into isolation from the West.
Recent comments by US President Donald Trump, in which he suggested Ukraine was to blame for starting the war, sparked outrage among Ukrainians.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-ukraines-military-spy-suggests-ceasefire-with-russia-could-happen-this-year-8740476" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'How long, how effective?' Ukraine&rsquo;s military spy suggests ceasefire with Russia could happen this year</a>
Trump made the comments while addressing reporters on February 18 at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, following US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia about ending the war.&nbsp;
Dismissing concerns that Ukraine had been excluded from the negotiations, he said, &ldquo;I think I have the power to end this war, and I think it&rsquo;s going very well. But today I heard [from Ukraine], &lsquo;Oh well, we weren&rsquo;t invited.&rsquo; Well, you&rsquo;ve been there for three years. You should have ended it three years &ndash; you should have never started it, you could have made a deal.&rdquo;
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded on Wednesday, saying that Russia was spreading disinformation.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-when-russians-hide-north-koreans-shoot-how-pyongyangs-troops-are-reshaping-8633581" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'When Russians hide, North Koreans&nbsp;shoot': How Pyongyang's troops are reshaping Russia-Ukraine war</a>
<h2>Who started the Russia-Ukraine war?</h2>
The war began when Russian troops crossed the Ukrainian border on February 24, 2022. Putin justified the invasion with claims that it was necessary to protect Russian-speaking civilians in eastern Ukraine and to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO.
However, tensions between the two nations had been escalating for years. In 2014, Russia annexed Crimea and backed separatist forces in eastern Ukraine&rsquo;s Donbas region, leading to a conflict that lasted for years and resulted in thousands of deaths.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-why-ukrainian-soldiers-are-running-away-as-war-with-russia-drags-on-8679412" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Realised I&rsquo;m nobody, just a number&rsquo;: Why Ukrainian soldiers are running away as war with Russia drags on</a>
By early 2022, Russia had positioned around 150,000 soldiers along Ukraine&rsquo;s borders under the guise of military exercises. Despite assurances from Moscow that there were no plans for an invasion, Russian forces launched airstrikes and crossed into Ukraine on February 24. Putin declared the invasion a &ldquo;special military operation&rdquo; at 6 am Moscow time.
&ldquo;The purpose of this operation is to protect people who, for eight years now, have been facing humiliation and genocide perpetrated by the Kyiv regime,&rdquo; he said in a televised speech.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-slams-trump-for-living-in-disinformation-bubble-after-false-claim-on-approval-rating-8736468" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Unfortunate&rsquo;: Zelensky slams Trump for living in &lsquo;disinformation bubble&rsquo; after false claim on approval rating</a>
He added, &ldquo;To this end, we will seek to demilitarise and denazify Ukraine, as well as bring to trial those who perpetrated numerous bloody crimes against civilians, including against citizens of the Russian Federation.&rdquo;
For years, Putin had dismissed Ukraine&rsquo;s sovereignty, claiming that Ukrainians were merely Russians who needed to be reintegrated into Russia.
<h2>Where do we stand now? The human cost of Russia-Ukraine war</h2>
The war has taken a devastating toll. While exact figures remain uncertain, Zelensky recently said that over 46,000 Ukrainian soldiers had been killed since the full-scale invasion began. He also added that &ldquo;tens of thousands&rdquo; of civilians had lost their lives in Russian-occupied areas.
On the Russian side, the most recent official figures from Moscow, released in January 2023, reported just over 6,000 military deaths. However, US and UK estimates suggest the real number is far higher.

Putin justified the invasion with claims that it was necessary to protect Russian-speaking civilians in eastern Ukraine and to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO. World, Ukraine war

February 24 marks three years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. What Russian President Vladimir Putin initially called a “special military operation” has since become Europe’s largest conflict since World War II. The war has claimed tens of thousands of lives on both sides, displaced millions of Ukrainians, and pushed Russia into isolation from the West. Recent comments by US President Donald Trump, in which he suggested Ukraine was to blame for starting the war, sparked outrage among Ukrainians. Also read: 'How long, how effective?' Ukraine’s military spy suggests ceasefire with Russia could happen this year Trump made the comments while addressing reporters on February 18 at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, following US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia about ending the war. Dismissing concerns that Ukraine had been excluded from the negotiations, he said, “I think I have the power to end this war, and I think it’s going very well. But today I heard [from Ukraine], ‘Oh well, we weren’t invited.’ Well, you’ve been there for three years. You should have ended it three years – you should have never started it, you could have made a deal.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded on Wednesday, saying that Russia was spreading disinformation. Also read: 'When Russians hide, North Koreans shoot': How Pyongyang's troops are reshaping Russia-Ukraine war Who started the Russia-Ukraine war? The war began when Russian troops crossed the Ukrainian border on February 24, 2022. Putin justified the invasion with claims that it was necessary to protect Russian-speaking civilians in eastern Ukraine and to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO. However, tensions between the two nations had been escalating for years. In 2014, Russia annexed Crimea and backed separatist forces in eastern Ukraine’s Donbas region, leading to a conflict that lasted for years and resulted in thousands of deaths. Also read: ‘Realised I’m nobody, just a number’: Why Ukrainian soldiers are running away as war with Russia drags on By early 2022, Russia had positioned around 150,000 soldiers along Ukraine’s borders under the guise of military exercises. Despite assurances from Moscow that there were no plans for an invasion, Russian forces launched airstrikes and crossed into Ukraine on February 24. Putin declared the invasion a “special military operation” at 6 am Moscow time. “The purpose of this operation is to protect people who, for eight years now, have been facing humiliation and genocide perpetrated by the Kyiv regime,” he said in a televised speech. Also read: ‘Unfortunate’: Zelensky slams Trump for living in ‘disinformation bubble’ after false claim on approval rating He added, “To this end, we will seek to demilitarise and denazify Ukraine, as well as bring to trial those who perpetrated numerous bloody crimes against civilians, including against citizens of the Russian Federation.” For years, Putin had dismissed Ukraine’s sovereignty, claiming that Ukrainians were merely Russians who needed to be reintegrated into Russia. Where do we stand now? The human cost of Russia-Ukraine war The war has taken a devastating toll. While exact figures remain uncertain, Zelensky recently said that over 46,000 Ukrainian soldiers had been killed since the full-scale invasion began. He also added that “tens of thousands” of civilians had lost their lives in Russian-occupied areas. On the Russian side, the most recent official figures from Moscow, released in January 2023, reported just over 6,000 military deaths. However, US and UK estimates suggest the real number is far higher.

Three years of Russia-Ukraine war: Who started it - Kremlin or Kyiv?

Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine&rsquo;s military intelligence agency, has said a ceasefire in the war with Russia could occur before the end of the year.
"I think it is going to happen. There are most of the components for it to happen," Budanov said in a YouTube interview. However, he did not provide further details.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-starmer-compares-zelensky-to-winston-churchill-defends-ukraine-prez-against-trumps-dictator-allegations-8738197" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">UK PM Starmer defends Zelensky against Trump's 'dictator' jibe, compares Ukraine prez to Winston Churchill</a>
"How long it will be, how effective it will be &ndash; is another question," Budanov added.
Donald Trump surprised Kyiv and Europe after he called Russian President Vladimir Putin last week to start peace talks on Ukraine &ldquo;immediately.&rdquo;
Shortly after his call with Putin, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a telephone call with Donald Trump.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-blasts-ukrainian-president-zelensky-russia-ukraine-war-putin-8737582" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Dictator Without Elections&rsquo;: Trump blasts Zelensky after &lsquo;disinformation&rsquo; dig, warns Ukraine could collapse</a>
"I just spoke to President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine. The conversation went very well. He, like President Putin, wants to make PEACE," Trump said.
Later, Zelensky met US Vice President JD Vance on the sidelines of the Munich Security Summit and demanded "real security guarantees" for Ukraine.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia on Tuesday (Feb 18) hosted breakthrough US-Russia talks to discuss ways to end the Ukraine war and strengthen American-Russian relations.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/federal-govt-should-take-over-washington-dc-trump-slams-city-government-for-not-doing-the-job-8740194" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Federal govt should 'take over' Washington, DC: Trump slams city government for 'not doing the job'</a>
However, Ukraine was not part of the talks, with President Volodymyr <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-ukraines-military-spy-suggests-ceasefire-with-russia-could-happen-this-year-8740476">Zelensky</a> saying that no peace agreement can be reached without Kyiv's presence.
The US-Russia talks without the involvement of Europe and Ukraine have strained ties between Washington and Kyiv with President Trump and Zelensky exchanging criticism on Wednesday.
Zelensky accused Trump of living in a "disinformation bubble" created by Russia. He also refuted Trump&rsquo;s claim that most of Ukraine&rsquo;s support comes from the US, saying, "The truth is somewhere else."
Trump, on the other hand, called Zelensky a "dictator without elections."
(With inputs from agencies)

World: "I think it is going to happen. There are most of the components for it to happen," Budanov said in a YouTube interview. However, he did not provide further details.

Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s military intelligence agency, has said a ceasefire in the war with Russia could occur before the end of the year. "I think it is going to happen. There are most of the components for it to happen," Budanov said in a YouTube interview. However, he did not provide further details. Also read: UK PM Starmer defends Zelensky against Trump's 'dictator' jibe, compares Ukraine prez to Winston Churchill "How long it will be, how effective it will be – is another question," Budanov added. Donald Trump surprised Kyiv and Europe after he called Russian President Vladimir Putin last week to start peace talks on Ukraine “immediately.” Shortly after his call with Putin, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a telephone call with Donald Trump. Also read: ‘Dictator Without Elections’: Trump blasts Zelensky after ‘disinformation’ dig, warns Ukraine could collapse "I just spoke to President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine. The conversation went very well. He, like President Putin, wants to make PEACE," Trump said. Later, Zelensky met US Vice President JD Vance on the sidelines of the Munich Security Summit and demanded "real security guarantees" for Ukraine. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia on Tuesday (Feb 18) hosted breakthrough US-Russia talks to discuss ways to end the Ukraine war and strengthen American-Russian relations. Also read: Federal govt should 'take over' Washington, DC: Trump slams city government for 'not doing the job' However, Ukraine was not part of the talks, with President Volodymyr Zelensky saying that no peace agreement can be reached without Kyiv's presence. The US-Russia talks without the involvement of Europe and Ukraine have strained ties between Washington and Kyiv with President Trump and Zelensky exchanging criticism on Wednesday. Zelensky accused Trump of living in a "disinformation bubble" created by Russia. He also refuted Trump’s claim that most of Ukraine’s support comes from the US, saying, "The truth is somewhere else." Trump, on the other hand, called Zelensky a "dictator without elections." (With inputs from agencies)

'How long, how effective?' Ukraine’s military spy suggests ceasefire with Russia could happen this year

High-level talks between US and Russian officials are set to take place in Riyadh on Tuesday (Feb 18), but the United States has dismissed any suggestion that the meeting will involve negotiations on Ukraine.
US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said on Monday (Feb 17) that the discussions should not be seen as part of a formal negotiation process. 
"I don't think that people should view this as something that is about details or moving forward in some kind of a negotiation," she said. She added that President Trump had instructed officials to "follow up effectively" on his recent call with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-peace-talks-live-europe-plays-catch-up-in-paris-as-marco-rubio-arrives-in-saudi-arabia-for-talks-with-russia-without-zelensky-8729487" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Ukraine peace talks LIVE: 'Emergency Summit' begins in Paris ahead of US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia</a>
<h2>Talks aim to reset US-Russia relations</h2>
The meeting, the first high-level engagement between the two countries since Russia&rsquo;s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, is expected to focus on repairing strained diplomatic ties. While both sides have downplayed the likelihood of any breakthrough, the discussions have raised concerns in Kyiv and across Europe.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Kyiv was not invited to the talks and voiced frustration over the lack of consultation. "We do not know anything about these discussions and cannot recognise any agreements about us without us," he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/too-soon-europe-split-on-ukraine-troop-deployment-as-trump-courts-putin-for-peace-talks-8730102" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Too soon': Europe split on Ukraine troop deployment as Trump courts&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;for&nbsp;peace&nbsp;talks</a>
Meanwhile, European leaders are holding emergency talks in Paris to assess Washington&rsquo;s shift in approach towards Moscow.
<h2>Possible Trump-Putin summit on agenda</h2>
One of the key topics under discussion is the possibility of a summit between Presidents <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump</a> and Putin. Trump is reportedly eager to push for a swift resolution to the ongoing war in Ukraine, while Moscow sees an opportunity to press Washington on longstanding issues, particularly the US military presence in Europe.
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Ahead of the talks, the Kremlin emphasised its desire to move past what it described as "abnormal relations" with Washington. Russia also made it clear that it does not believe European nations should have a role in any negotiations.
<h2>Key officials attending the talks</h2>
The US delegation in Riyadh will include Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. Representing Russia will be Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and senior Putin aide Yuri Ushakov.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said on Monday (Feb 17) that the discussions should not be seen as part of a formal negotiation process.

High-level talks between US and Russian officials are set to take place in Riyadh on Tuesday (Feb 18), but the United States has dismissed any suggestion that the meeting will involve negotiations on Ukraine. US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said on Monday (Feb 17) that the discussions should not be seen as part of a formal negotiation process. "I don't think that people should view this as something that is about details or moving forward in some kind of a negotiation," she said. She added that President Trump had instructed officials to "follow up effectively" on his recent call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Also read: Ukraine peace talks LIVE: 'Emergency Summit' begins in Paris ahead of US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia Talks aim to reset US-Russia relations The meeting, the first high-level engagement between the two countries since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, is expected to focus on repairing strained diplomatic ties. While both sides have downplayed the likelihood of any breakthrough, the discussions have raised concerns in Kyiv and across Europe. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Kyiv was not invited to the talks and voiced frustration over the lack of consultation. "We do not know anything about these discussions and cannot recognise any agreements about us without us," he said. Also read: 'Too soon': Europe split on Ukraine troop deployment as Trump courts Putin for peace talks Meanwhile, European leaders are holding emergency talks in Paris to assess Washington’s shift in approach towards Moscow. Possible Trump-Putin summit on agenda One of the key topics under discussion is the possibility of a summit between Presidents Trump and Putin. Trump is reportedly eager to push for a swift resolution to the ongoing war in Ukraine, while Moscow sees an opportunity to press Washington on longstanding issues, particularly the US military presence in Europe. Also read: Pope Francis's to stay in hospital due to 'complex clinical situation' Ahead of the talks, the Kremlin emphasised its desire to move past what it described as "abnormal relations" with Washington. Russia also made it clear that it does not believe European nations should have a role in any negotiations. Key officials attending the talks The US delegation in Riyadh will include Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. Representing Russia will be Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and senior Putin aide Yuri Ushakov. (With inputs from agencies)

'Not Ukraine negotiation': US, Russia to hold high-stakes talks in Saudi Arabia, but not about Kyiv peace

Senior US officials including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff, are travelling to Saudi Arabia to start negotiations aimed at ending the war between Russia and Ukraine, two sources told NBC News channel. The talks, it appears, will not have a presence from Ukraine.
Witkoff confirmed that he will travel to Saudi Arabia Sunday night (Feb 16), where the first face-to-face talks between the US and Russia on Ukraine are set to be held.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/there-can-never-be-nuclear-iran-netanyahu-rubio-discuss-hamas-trumps-gaza-plan-and-tehrans-aggression-8726530" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;There can never be nuclear Iran&rsquo;: Netanyahu, Rubio discuss Hamas, Trump&rsquo;s Gaza plan, and Tehran&rsquo;s &lsquo;aggression&rsquo;</a>
Witkoff added that US officials are also speaking separately with Ukrainian officials, insisting that "Ukraine is part of the talks".
But he gave no indication he expected officials from Kyiv to be in Saudi Arabia. 
A BBC report meanwhile said&nbsp;Kyiv will not be attending, despite President Donald Trump saying this week that Ukrainian representatives would participate.
Witcoff added he would be having meetings "at the direction" of Trump and he hopes for "good progress."
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov meanwhile told reporters, "This is a powerful signal that we will now try to solve problems through dialogue."
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/widow-of-alexei-navalny-slams-putin-says-any-ceasefire-deal-with-him-will-fail-he-will-betray-8723580" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Widow of Alexei Navalny slams Putin, says any ceasefire deal with him will fail: 'He will betray'</a>
The planned talks follow a phone call between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. 
After that conversation, Trump wrote on Truth Social, &ldquo;We agreed to work together, very closely, including visiting each other&rsquo;s Nations. We have also agreed to have our respective teams start negotiations immediately.&rdquo;
<h2>Ukraine&rsquo;s concerns over exclusion from talks</h2>
The possibility of talks taking place without Ukraine&rsquo;s direct involvement is likely to spark criticism from Kyiv. On Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded to the Trump-Putin call, insisting that his country must be included in any discussions about its future.
"Ukraine will never accept deals made behind our backs," Zelensky said during a speech at the Munich Security Conference. "No decisions about Ukraine without Ukraine, no decisions about Europe without Europe."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-fears-iran-may-go-nuclear-seeks-to-broker-new-trump-tehran-deal-report-8726369" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Saudi Arabia fears Iran may go nuclear, seeks to broker new Trump-Tehran deal: Report</a>
Some Ukrainian officials fear that Trump may attempt to broker a deal with Russia that does not provide sufficient security guarantees or long-term peace for Ukraine, which has been fighting a full-scale invasion for three years.
<h2>US-Russia diplomacy resumes</h2>
As part of the Trump administration&rsquo;s efforts to restart diplomatic engagement with Russia, Rubio spoke with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Saturday while travelling from Munich to Israel.
Rubio &ldquo;reaffirmed President Trump&rsquo;s commitment to finding an end to the conflict in Ukraine,&rdquo; according to a statement from State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-create-nato-in-ukraine-zelensky-on-nato-ambitions-trumps-personal-number-and-more-8722093" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;We will create NATO in Ukraine&rsquo;: Zelensky on NATO ambitions, Trump&rsquo;s personal number, and more</a>
The Russian summary of the call stated that both diplomats would maintain regular communication and begin preparations for a future summit between their presidents. It also indicated that discussions would cover broader international issues, including Ukraine, the Middle East and Palestine.
Rubio is set to visit Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates following his stop in Israel&mdash;his first diplomatic trip to the Middle East.
<h2>Uncertainty over European involvement</h2>
During a panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference, US Special Envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg confirmed that Ukrainian representatives would take part in discussions to end the war. However, when asked if European nations would also have a seat at the table, he said, &ldquo;The answer is no.&rdquo;
Kellogg explained that negotiations would primarily involve &ldquo;two protagonists&rdquo; Russia and Ukraine, while the US would act as an intermediary. When pressed for clarification, he confirmed that Americans would also be at the table.
He later added that not being present in direct talks does not mean a country&rsquo;s interests are being ignored.
Defending the need for discussions with Putin, Kellogg said, &ldquo;Whether you like it or not, you have to talk to adversaries.&rdquo;
He also referenced former US defence secretary James Mattis in his answer.
&ldquo;As a great secretary of defense, Gen Mattis, once said: 'I may not like this son of a b----, but I got to talk to him.'&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Witkoff, Trump's Special Envoy to the Middle East, confirmed that he will travel to Saudi Arabia Sunday night (Feb 16), where the first face-to-face talks between the US and Russia on Ukraine are set to be held.

Senior US officials including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff, are travelling to Saudi Arabia to start negotiations aimed at ending the war between Russia and Ukraine, two sources told NBC News channel. The talks, it appears, will not have a presence from Ukraine. Witkoff confirmed that he will travel to Saudi Arabia Sunday night (Feb 16), where the first face-to-face talks between the US and Russia on Ukraine are set to be held. Also read: ‘There can never be nuclear Iran’: Netanyahu, Rubio discuss Hamas, Trump’s Gaza plan, and Tehran’s ‘aggression’ Witkoff added that US officials are also speaking separately with Ukrainian officials, insisting that "Ukraine is part of the talks". But he gave no indication he expected officials from Kyiv to be in Saudi Arabia. A BBC report meanwhile said Kyiv will not be attending, despite President Donald Trump saying this week that Ukrainian representatives would participate. Witcoff added he would be having meetings "at the direction" of Trump and he hopes for "good progress." Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov meanwhile told reporters, "This is a powerful signal that we will now try to solve problems through dialogue." Also read: Widow of Alexei Navalny slams Putin, says any ceasefire deal with him will fail: 'He will betray' The planned talks follow a phone call between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. After that conversation, Trump wrote on Truth Social, “We agreed to work together, very closely, including visiting each other’s Nations. We have also agreed to have our respective teams start negotiations immediately.” Ukraine’s concerns over exclusion from talks The possibility of talks taking place without Ukraine’s direct involvement is likely to spark criticism from Kyiv. On Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded to the Trump-Putin call, insisting that his country must be included in any discussions about its future. "Ukraine will never accept deals made behind our backs," Zelensky said during a speech at the Munich Security Conference. "No decisions about Ukraine without Ukraine, no decisions about Europe without Europe." Also read: Saudi Arabia fears Iran may go nuclear, seeks to broker new Trump-Tehran deal: Report Some Ukrainian officials fear that Trump may attempt to broker a deal with Russia that does not provide sufficient security guarantees or long-term peace for Ukraine, which has been fighting a full-scale invasion for three years. US-Russia diplomacy resumes As part of the Trump administration’s efforts to restart diplomatic engagement with Russia, Rubio spoke with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Saturday while travelling from Munich to Israel. Rubio “reaffirmed President Trump’s commitment to finding an end to the conflict in Ukraine,” according to a statement from State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce. Also read: ‘We will create NATO in Ukraine’: Zelensky on NATO ambitions, Trump’s personal number, and more The Russian summary of the call stated that both diplomats would maintain regular communication and begin preparations for a future summit between their presidents. It also indicated that discussions would cover broader international issues, including Ukraine, the Middle East and Palestine. Rubio is set to visit Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates following his stop in Israel—his first diplomatic trip to the Middle East. Uncertainty over European involvement During a panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference, US Special Envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg confirmed that Ukrainian representatives would take part in discussions to end the war. However, when asked if European nations would also have a seat at the table, he said, “The answer is no.” Kellogg explained that negotiations would primarily involve “two protagonists” Russia and Ukraine, while the US would act as an intermediary. When pressed for clarification, he confirmed that Americans would also be at the table. He later added that not being present in direct talks does not mean a country’s interests are being ignored. Defending the need for discussions with Putin, Kellogg said, “Whether you like it or not, you have to talk to adversaries.” He also referenced former US defence secretary James Mattis in his answer. “As a great secretary of defense, Gen Mattis, once said: 'I may not like this son of a b----, but I got to talk to him.'” (With inputs from agencies)

Trump’s team heads to Saudi Arabia for Ukraine peace talks with Russia, without Ukraine

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Feb 12) said that he had a &ldquo;lengthy and highly productive phone call&rdquo; with Russian President Vladimir Putin and agreed to start peace talks on Ukraine &ldquo;immediately.&rdquo;
Shortly after his call with Putin, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a telephone call with Donald Trump, the presidency in Kyiv said. The call lasted approximately one hour.
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"I just spoke to President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine. The conversation went very well. He, like President Putin, wants to make PEACE. We discussed a variety of topics having to do with the War, but mostly, the meeting that is being set up on Friday in Munich, where Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio will lead the Delegation. I am hopeful that the results of that meeting will be positive. It is time to stop this ridiculous War, where there has been massive, and totally unnecessary, DEATH and DESTRUCTION. God bless the people of Russia and Ukraine!" Trump wrote on Truth Social.
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</div>
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<h2>90 minutes that will decide the future of Russia-Ukraine war</h2>
Kremlin also confirmed the call, saying, "President Putin ... agreed with Trump that a long-term settlement could be reached through peaceful negotiations." The call lasted almost 90 minutes, as per the Kremlin statement.
In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump said that they both &ldquo;want to stop the millions of deaths taking place&rdquo; in the war.
"I just had a lengthy and highly productive phone call with President Vladimir Putin of Russia. We discussed Ukraine, the Middle East, Energy, Artificial Intelligence, the power of the Dollar, and various other subjects," the US president wrote.
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"As we both agreed, we want to stop the millions of deaths taking place in the War with Russia/Ukraine. President Putin even used my very strong Campaign motto of &ldquo;COMMON SENSE.&rdquo; We both believe very strongly in it. We agreed to work together, very closely, including visiting each other&rsquo;s Nations," he agreed.
<h2>'Will begin by calling President Zelensky'</h2>
Trump added that Putin agreed to have his team "start negotiations immediately."
"We will begin by calling President Zelensky, of Ukraine, to inform him of the conversation, something which I will be doing right now," he added.
"I have asked Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Director of the CIA John Ratcliffe, National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, and Ambassador and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, to lead the negotiations which, I feel strongly, will be successful," Trump said.
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<h2>'This will lead to a successful conclusion'</h2>
Trump also claimed that the war would not have happened if he were the President of the United States, something he has said previously during the 2024 US Presidential election campaign trail.
"But it did happen, so it must end. No more lives should be lost!" Trump said.
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"I want to thank President Putin for his time and effort with respect to this call, and for the release, yesterday, of Marc Fogel, a wonderful man that I personally greeted last night at the White House. I believe this effort will lead to a successful conclusion, hopefully soon!" he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The Kremlin also confirmed that call saying, "President Putin ... agreed with Trump that a long-term settlement could be reached through peaceful negotiations." The call lasted almost 90 minutes, as per the Kremlin statement.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Feb 12) said that he had a “lengthy and highly productive phone call” with Russian President Vladimir Putin and agreed to start peace talks on Ukraine “immediately.” Shortly after his call with Putin, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a telephone call with Donald Trump, the presidency in Kyiv said. The call lasted approximately one hour. "I just spoke to President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine. The conversation went very well. He, like President Putin, wants to make PEACE. We discussed a variety of topics having to do with the War, but mostly, the meeting that is being set up on Friday in Munich, where Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio will lead the Delegation. I am hopeful that the results of that meeting will be positive. It is time to stop this ridiculous War, where there has been massive, and totally unnecessary, DEATH and DESTRUCTION. God bless the people of Russia and Ukraine!" Trump wrote on Truth Social. Also read: Trump directs Jordan King to ensure Hamas understands 'severity of situation' if hostages not freed 90 minutes that will decide the future of Russia-Ukraine war Kremlin also confirmed the call, saying, "President Putin ... agreed with Trump that a long-term settlement could be reached through peaceful negotiations." The call lasted almost 90 minutes, as per the Kremlin statement. In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump said that they both “want to stop the millions of deaths taking place” in the war. "I just had a lengthy and highly productive phone call with President Vladimir Putin of Russia. We discussed Ukraine, the Middle East, Energy, Artificial Intelligence, the power of the Dollar, and various other subjects," the US president wrote. Also read: PM Modi’s US visit: Indian premier to meet ‘dear friend’ Trump amid tariff threats, mass deportations "As we both agreed, we want to stop the millions of deaths taking place in the War with Russia/Ukraine. President Putin even used my very strong Campaign motto of “COMMON SENSE.” We both believe very strongly in it. We agreed to work together, very closely, including visiting each other’s Nations," he agreed. 'Will begin by calling President Zelensky' Trump added that Putin agreed to have his team "start negotiations immediately." "We will begin by calling President Zelensky, of Ukraine, to inform him of the conversation, something which I will be doing right now," he added. "I have asked Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Director of the CIA John Ratcliffe, National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, and Ambassador and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, to lead the negotiations which, I feel strongly, will be successful," Trump said. Also read: US agencies Trump, Musk and DOGE have been trying to dismantle and downsize. Here's the full list 'This will lead to a successful conclusion' Trump also claimed that the war would not have happened if he were the President of the United States, something he has said previously during the 2024 US Presidential election campaign trail. "But it did happen, so it must end. No more lives should be lost!" Trump said. Also read: 'India belonged to England': Indian-origin woman faces racial abuse on UK train | Video "I want to thank President Putin for his time and effort with respect to this call, and for the release, yesterday, of Marc Fogel, a wonderful man that I personally greeted last night at the White House. I believe this effort will lead to a successful conclusion, hopefully soon!" he added. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Zelensky, Putin want to make PEACE’: Trump holds call with Ukraine, Russian leaders

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump</a> on Thursday (Jan 23) addressed the Davos summit virtually just days after moving into the White House following his inauguration. During his address at the World Economic Forum, the 47th US president said that he&rsquo;d like to sit down with Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine.
&ldquo;I really would like to be able to meet with President Putin soon to get that war ended. And that&rsquo;s not from the standpoint of economy or anything else. It&rsquo;s from the standpoint of millions of lives are being wasted,&rdquo; Trump said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-addresses-davos-summit-today-world-economic-forum-massive-tax-cuts-8648204">'Nothing less than revolution,' US President Donald Trump addresses Davos summit, promises massive tax cuts</a>
"Our efforts to secure a peace settlement between Russia and Ukraine are now, hopefully, underway. It's so important to get that done," Trump added.
Noting that he has seen pictures of what&rsquo;s going on, Trump said, &ldquo;It&rsquo;s a carnage, and we really have to stop that war,&rdquo; though he made no mention of any plans on how his administration seeks to end the war that began with Russia&rsquo;s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.&nbsp;
<h2>'If oil price came down, the Russia-Ukraine war would end immediately'</h2>
President Trump further said in his address that he would ask Saudi Arabia and OPEC to bring down the cost of oil, adding that lower oil prices could end the war in Ukraine immediately.
"I'm also going to ask Saudi Arabia and OPEC to bring down the cost of oil, you've got to bring it down. If the price came down, the Russia-Ukraine war would end immediately," he said.
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Trump also called Saudi Arabia&rsquo;s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman "a fantastic guy" and added that he would ask the country to increase its US investments to $1 trillion. Trump's comments at the forum come after he spoke with the crown prince in his first call with a foreign leader of his second term.
<h2>'Ukraine is ready to make a deal'</h2>
When asked whether he believed a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine could be reached by the time he addresses the summit again next year, Trump replied, &ldquo;Well, you&rsquo;re going to have to ask Russia, Ukraine is ready to make a deal.&rdquo;
Responding to a question from the WEF President and CEO, about the relationship between US and China during the next four years, Trump said, "I think that we're going to have a very good relationship. All we want is fairness. We just want a level playing field. Right now it is not a fair relationship, the trade deficit is massive."
Trump spoke positively about Chinese President Xi Jinping, saying, &ldquo;I like President Xi very much, I've always liked him.&rdquo; 
<h2>'China can help stop the war between Russia and Ukraine'</h2>
He also highlighted China&rsquo;s potential role in helping to end the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ukraine-war" rel="dofollow">Ukraine war</a>, saying, &ldquo;Hopefully China can help us stop the war with, in particular, Russia and Ukraine. They have a great deal of power over that situation. And we&rsquo;ll work with them. And I mentioned that during our phone conversation with President Xi."
"We want to see if we can denuclearise, and I think that is possible," he added.
<h2>Trump threatens tariffs, sanctions on Russia</h2>
A day before his virtual speech, Trump had, in a post on Truth Social,&nbsp;threatened tariffs and intensified sanctions on Russia if it did not withdraw troops from Ukraine.
He said that Russia&rsquo;s economic situation is worsening, urging President Putin to &ldquo;settle now and stop this ridiculous war.&rdquo; Trump added, &ldquo;Without a deal, I have no other choice but to put high levels of taxes, tariffs, and sanctions on anything being sold by Russia to the United States, and various other participating countries.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump highlighted China’s potential role in helping to end the Ukraine war, saying, “Hopefully China can help us stop the war with, in particular, Russia and Ukraine."

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 23) addressed the Davos summit virtually just days after moving into the White House following his inauguration. During his address at the World Economic Forum, the 47th US president said that he’d like to sit down with Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine. “I really would like to be able to meet with President Putin soon to get that war ended. And that’s not from the standpoint of economy or anything else. It’s from the standpoint of millions of lives are being wasted,” Trump said. Also read: 'Nothing less than revolution,' US President Donald Trump addresses Davos summit, promises massive tax cuts "Our efforts to secure a peace settlement between Russia and Ukraine are now, hopefully, underway. It's so important to get that done," Trump added. Noting that he has seen pictures of what’s going on, Trump said, “It’s a carnage, and we really have to stop that war,” though he made no mention of any plans on how his administration seeks to end the war that began with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. 'If oil price came down, the Russia-Ukraine war would end immediately' President Trump further said in his address that he would ask Saudi Arabia and OPEC to bring down the cost of oil, adding that lower oil prices could end the war in Ukraine immediately. "I'm also going to ask Saudi Arabia and OPEC to bring down the cost of oil, you've got to bring it down. If the price came down, the Russia-Ukraine war would end immediately," he said. Also read: Saudi Prince Mohammed bin Salman vows $600 billion trade to US Prez Donald Trump Trump also called Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman "a fantastic guy" and added that he would ask the country to increase its US investments to $1 trillion. Trump's comments at the forum come after he spoke with the crown prince in his first call with a foreign leader of his second term. 'Ukraine is ready to make a deal' When asked whether he believed a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine could be reached by the time he addresses the summit again next year, Trump replied, “Well, you’re going to have to ask Russia, Ukraine is ready to make a deal.” Responding to a question from the WEF President and CEO, about the relationship between US and China during the next four years, Trump said, "I think that we're going to have a very good relationship. All we want is fairness. We just want a level playing field. Right now it is not a fair relationship, the trade deficit is massive." Trump spoke positively about Chinese President Xi Jinping, saying, “I like President Xi very much, I've always liked him.” 'China can help stop the war between Russia and Ukraine' He also highlighted China’s potential role in helping to end the Ukraine war, saying, “Hopefully China can help us stop the war with, in particular, Russia and Ukraine. They have a great deal of power over that situation. And we’ll work with them. And I mentioned that during our phone conversation with President Xi." "We want to see if we can denuclearise, and I think that is possible," he added. Trump threatens tariffs, sanctions on Russia A day before his virtual speech, Trump had, in a post on Truth Social, threatened tariffs and intensified sanctions on Russia if it did not withdraw troops from Ukraine. He said that Russia’s economic situation is worsening, urging President Putin to “settle now and stop this ridiculous war.” Trump added, “Without a deal, I have no other choice but to put high levels of taxes, tariffs, and sanctions on anything being sold by Russia to the United States, and various other participating countries.” (With inputs from agencies)

'They have great deal of power...' President Trump envisions US-China collaboration to end Russia-Ukraine War