Turkey&nbsp;and other nations must still talk to Russia to help end the war in Ukraine,&nbsp;Turkey's presidential spokesman said on Sunday, adding that Kyiv needed more support to defend itself.

NATO member&nbsp;Turkey&nbsp;has good relations with both Russia and Ukraine and has sought to mediate in the month-long conflict.

"If everybody burns bridges with Russia then who is going to talk to them at the end of the day," Ibrahim Kalin told the Doha international forum.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/leading-energy-analyst-says-russian-gas-sales-to-china-will-not-make-up-for-loss-of-european-markets-465956">Leading energy analyst says Russian gas sales to China 'will not make up for loss of European markets'</a>

"Ukrainians need to be supported by every means possible so they can defend themselves ... but the Russian case must be heard, one way or the other," so that its grievances could be understood if not justified, Kalin added.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has urged the West to give his country tanks, planes and missiles to fend off Russian forces. The West has responded to Russia's invasion by slapping sweeping economic sanctions on&nbsp;Moscow.

Ankara&nbsp;says&nbsp;Russia's invasion is unacceptable but opposes the Western sanctions on principle and has not joined them.

Turkey's economy, already strained by a December currency crisis, relies heavily on Russian energy, trade and tourism, and since the war began on Feb. 24 thousands of Russians have arrived in&nbsp;Turkey, seeing it as a safe haven from the sanctions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-turkeys-position-on-russian-s-400-missile-acquisition-remains-the-same-465488">Erdogan: Turkey's position on Russian S-400 missile acquisition remains the same</a>

Ahmet Burak Daglioglu, head of&nbsp;Turkey's investment office, told the forum separately that some Russian companies were relocating operations to&nbsp;Turkey.

Asked on a panel about&nbsp;Turkey&nbsp;doing business with any people which could be of benefit to President Vladimir Putin, he said: "We are not targeting, we are not chasing, we are not pursuing any investment or capital that has a question mark on it."

Two superyachts linked to Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich have docked in Turkish resorts.

Western governments have targeted Abramovich and several other Russian oligarchs with sanctions as they seek to isolate Putin and his allies over&nbsp;Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine: Poland must send warplanes amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-poland-must-send-warplanes-amid-the-ongoing-russian-invasion-of-ukraine-465886/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Turkey and other nations must still talk to Russia to help end the war in Ukraine, Turkey's presidential spokesman said on Sunday, adding that Kyiv needed more support to defend itself.

Turkey and other nations must still talk to Russia to help end the war in Ukraine, Turkey's presidential spokesman said on Sunday, adding that Kyiv needed more support to defend itself. NATO member Turkey has good relations with both Russia and Ukraine and has sought to mediate in the month-long conflict. "If everybody burns bridges with Russia then who is going to talk to them at the end of the day," Ibrahim Kalin told the Doha international forum. Also read | Leading energy analyst says Russian gas sales to China 'will not make up for loss of European markets' "Ukrainians need to be supported by every means possible so they can defend themselves ... but the Russian case must be heard, one way or the other," so that its grievances could be understood if not justified, Kalin added. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has urged the West to give his country tanks, planes and missiles to fend off Russian forces. The West has responded to Russia's invasion by slapping sweeping economic sanctions on Moscow. Ankara says Russia's invasion is unacceptable but opposes the Western sanctions on principle and has not joined them. Turkey's economy, already strained by a December currency crisis, relies heavily on Russian energy, trade and tourism, and since the war began on Feb. 24 thousands of Russians have arrived in Turkey, seeing it as a safe haven from the sanctions. Also read | Erdogan: Turkey's position on Russian S-400 missile acquisition remains the same Ahmet Burak Daglioglu, head of Turkey's investment office, told the forum separately that some Russian companies were relocating operations to Turkey. Asked on a panel about Turkey doing business with any people which could be of benefit to President Vladimir Putin, he said: "We are not targeting, we are not chasing, we are not pursuing any investment or capital that has a question mark on it." Two superyachts linked to Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich have docked in Turkish resorts. Western governments have targeted Abramovich and several other Russian oligarchs with sanctions as they seek to isolate Putin and his allies over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Watch | Ukraine: Poland must send warplanes amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

Turkey says world cannot 'burn bridges' with Moscow

It is "foolish" to believe that&nbsp;Western&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;against Russian businesses could have any effect on the Moscow government, Russian ex-president&nbsp;and deputy head of security council Dmitry&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;was quoted as saying on Friday.

The&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;will only consolidate the Russian society and not cause popular discontent with the authorities,&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;told&nbsp;Russia's&nbsp;RIA news agency in an interview.

The West has imposed an array of&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, but one month into the war, the&nbsp;Kremlin&nbsp;says&nbsp;it will continue the assault until it accomplishes its goals of Ukraine's "demilitarisation and denazification".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-us-president-joe-biden-mistakenly-refers-to-defense-secretary-lloyd-austin-as-secretary-of-state-465613">Watch: US President Joe Biden mistakenly refers to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin as secretary of state</a>

Some of the&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;have specifically targeted billionaire businessmen believed to be close to&nbsp;President&nbsp;Vladimir Putin.

"Let us ask ourselves: can any of these major businessmen have even the tiniest quantum of influence of the position of the country's leadership?"&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;said.

"I openly tell you: no, no way."

Medvedev&nbsp;said there are several grounds under which Russia has the right to use nuclear weapons, including an attack on the country or encroachment on infrastructure as a result of which&nbsp;Russia's&nbsp;nuclear deterrent forces would be paralysed.

That demonstrated&nbsp;Russia's&nbsp;"determination to defend the independence, sovereignty of our country, not to give anyone a reason to doubt even the slightest that we are ready to give a worthy response to any infringement on our country, on its independence," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-heavy-casualties-distraught-russian-troops-turn-on-own-commander-run-him-over-says-report-465590">After heavy casualties, distraught Russian troops turn on own commander, run him over, says report</a>

However, negotiations - even in the most difficult situations such as those around Ukraine - are Moscow's preferred path to proceed, he added.

Medvedev&nbsp;said opinion polls showed three-quarters of Russians supported the&nbsp;Kremlin's decision to carry out a military operation in Ukraine and even more supported&nbsp;President&nbsp;Vladimir Putin.

While downplaying the economic impact of&nbsp;sanctions,&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;said the Russian government will have to find "adequate solutions" on its own to spur the development of the aircraft, automotive and IT industries, among others.

"Now, it will be more difficult to tackle those issues, but on the other hand, we cannot rely on anyone,"&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;said. "In this case, we will have to solve those problems ourselves."

He lashed out at those Russians who spoke against the invasion while staying outside Russia.

"You can be dissatisfied with some of the authorities' decisions, criticise the authorities - this is normal," he said.

"But you cannot take a stand against the state in such a difficult situation, because this is treason."

Thousands of people were earlier this month detained at Russia-wide protests against Putin's invasion of Ukraine, according to an independent protest monitoring group.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia: Complete focus on liberating Ukraine's Donbas region

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-complete-focus-on-liberating-ukraines-donbas-region-465606/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It is "foolish" to believe that Western sanctions against Russian businesses could have any effect on the Moscow government, Russian ex-president and deputy head of security council Dmitry Medvedev was quoted as saying on Friday.

It is "foolish" to believe that Western sanctions against Russian businesses could have any effect on the Moscow government, Russian ex-president and deputy head of security council Dmitry Medvedev was quoted as saying on Friday. The sanctions will only consolidate the Russian society and not cause popular discontent with the authorities, Medvedev told Russia's RIA news agency in an interview. The West has imposed an array of sanctions on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, but one month into the war, the Kremlin says it will continue the assault until it accomplishes its goals of Ukraine's "demilitarisation and denazification". Also read | Watch: US President Joe Biden mistakenly refers to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin as secretary of state Some of the sanctions have specifically targeted billionaire businessmen believed to be close to President Vladimir Putin. "Let us ask ourselves: can any of these major businessmen have even the tiniest quantum of influence of the position of the country's leadership?" Medvedev said. "I openly tell you: no, no way." Medvedev said there are several grounds under which Russia has the right to use nuclear weapons, including an attack on the country or encroachment on infrastructure as a result of which Russia's nuclear deterrent forces would be paralysed. That demonstrated Russia's "determination to defend the independence, sovereignty of our country, not to give anyone a reason to doubt even the slightest that we are ready to give a worthy response to any infringement on our country, on its independence," he said. Also read | After heavy casualties, distraught Russian troops turn on own commander, run him over, says report However, negotiations - even in the most difficult situations such as those around Ukraine - are Moscow's preferred path to proceed, he added. Medvedev said opinion polls showed three-quarters of Russians supported the Kremlin's decision to carry out a military operation in Ukraine and even more supported President Vladimir Putin. While downplaying the economic impact of sanctions, Medvedev said the Russian government will have to find "adequate solutions" on its own to spur the development of the aircraft, automotive and IT industries, among others. "Now, it will be more difficult to tackle those issues, but on the other hand, we cannot rely on anyone," Medvedev said. "In this case, we will have to solve those problems ourselves." He lashed out at those Russians who spoke against the invasion while staying outside Russia. "You can be dissatisfied with some of the authorities' decisions, criticise the authorities - this is normal," he said. "But you cannot take a stand against the state in such a difficult situation, because this is treason." Thousands of people were earlier this month detained at Russia-wide protests against Putin's invasion of Ukraine, according to an independent protest monitoring group. Watch | Russia: Complete focus on liberating Ukraine's Donbas region

Western sanctions won't sway Kremlin, says Russia's former president Dmitry Medvedev

Anatoly&nbsp;Chubais, a prominent Russian liberal reformer of the 1990s, has quit his post as sustainable development adviser to President Vladimir Putin, the Kremlin confirmed Wednesday.

A source close to&nbsp;Chubais&nbsp;told state news agency TASS that the 66-year-old, who has sometimes voiced criticisms of Putin's actions, had left the country, while the Kremlin did not confirm this.

"Chubais&nbsp;resigned according to his own desire. But whether he has left or not -- that's his personal business," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told RIA Novosti state news agency.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-blocks-google-over-inauthentic-information-on-ukraine-war-465012">Russia blocks Google over 'inauthentic' information on Ukraine war</a>

Peskov did not give a reason for&nbsp;Chubais's resignation and the politician has not made a public statement.

Chubais&nbsp;was an economist who oversaw liberal free market reforms in the 1990s after the fall of the Soviet Union, including a privatisation drive, a role for which he remained highly unpopular in Russia.

Unlike some other liberals, he stayed working for Putin's regime.

He headed a state energy monopoly, followed by a post as chair of Rusnano, a group established by the Russian state to develop nano technology. In December 2020 he was appointed a special presidential envoy to international organisations, working on sustainable development.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-generations-of-women-flee-war-in-ukraine-for-spain-465015">Three generations of women flee war in Ukraine for Spain</a>

His recent posts on Facebook have included a photograph of opposition politician Boris Nemtsov, who was murdered outside the Kremlin walls in 2015.&nbsp;

On March 19, he posted a photograph of Yegor Gaidar, a fellow liberal reformer who died in 2009, writing: "I didn't agree with him in our arguments about the future of Russia. But it seems that Gaidar understood the strategic risks better than me and I was wrong."

Chubais&nbsp;is married to television presenter and filmmaker Avdotya Smirnova.

RBK news agency reported, citing two acquaintances of&nbsp;Chubais, that the couple have flown to Istanbul, while one said the politician planned to return to Russia.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Global Headlines: Ukraine: Russia attacks have killed 121 children

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Anatoly Chubais, a prominent Russian liberal reformer of the 1990s, has quit his post as sustainable development adviser to President Vladimir Putin, the Kremlin confirmed Wednesday.

Anatoly Chubais, a prominent Russian liberal reformer of the 1990s, has quit his post as sustainable development adviser to President Vladimir Putin, the Kremlin confirmed Wednesday. A source close to Chubais told state news agency TASS that the 66-year-old, who has sometimes voiced criticisms of Putin's actions, had left the country, while the Kremlin did not confirm this. "Chubais resigned according to his own desire. But whether he has left or not -- that's his personal business," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told RIA Novosti state news agency. Also read | Russia blocks Google over 'inauthentic' information on Ukraine war Peskov did not give a reason for Chubais's resignation and the politician has not made a public statement. Chubais was an economist who oversaw liberal free market reforms in the 1990s after the fall of the Soviet Union, including a privatisation drive, a role for which he remained highly unpopular in Russia. Unlike some other liberals, he stayed working for Putin's regime. He headed a state energy monopoly, followed by a post as chair of Rusnano, a group established by the Russian state to develop nano technology. In December 2020 he was appointed a special presidential envoy to international organisations, working on sustainable development. Also read | Three generations of women flee war in Ukraine for Spain His recent posts on Facebook have included a photograph of opposition politician Boris Nemtsov, who was murdered outside the Kremlin walls in 2015. On March 19, he posted a photograph of Yegor Gaidar, a fellow liberal reformer who died in 2009, writing: "I didn't agree with him in our arguments about the future of Russia. But it seems that Gaidar understood the strategic risks better than me and I was wrong." Chubais is married to television presenter and filmmaker Avdotya Smirnova. RBK news agency reported, citing two acquaintances of Chubais, that the couple have flown to Istanbul, while one said the politician planned to return to Russia. Watch | Gravitas Global Headlines: Ukraine: Russia attacks have killed 121 children

Liberal Anatoly Chubais quits as Putin envoy: Kremlin

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Without citing any evidence, US President Joe Biden claimed on Monday that Russian President Vladimir Putin is looking to use biological and chemical weapons in Ukraine invasion. &nbsp;

The accusations of Russia about Kyiv possessing these are false, said the US leader. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-invasion-triggers-patriotism-wave-in-ukraine-turns-inspiring-tattoos-billboards-popular-464172" hreflang="en">Russian invasion triggers patriotism wave in Ukraine, turns inspiring tattoos, billboards popular</a>

At a Business Roundtable event, Biden said, Putin's "back is against the wall and now he's talking about new false flags he's setting up including, asserting that we in America have biological as well as chemical weapons in Europe, simply not true." &nbsp;

"They are also suggesting that Ukraine has biological and chemical weapons in Ukraine. That's a clear sign he’s considering using both of those," added Biden, according to a Reuters report.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-heavy-bombardment-follows-mariupol-forced-to-bury-dead-on-roadside-in-makeshift-graves-464161" hreflang="en">Russia-Ukraine War: As heavy bombardment follows, Mariupol forced to bury dead on roadside in makeshift graves</a>

Earlier, several officials in Washington and allied countries have also accused Russia of spreading an unproven claim about Ukraine having a biological weapons programme as an excuse to potentially launch its own such attacks. &nbsp;

The defence ministry of Russia has accused Ukraine of looking to hold a chemical attack against its own people to accuse Moscow of using chemical weapons in the invasion. It has not supported its accusation with any evidence. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Without citing any evidence, US President Joe Biden claimed on Monday that Russian President Vladimir Putin is looking to use biological and chemical weapons in Ukraine invasion. The accusations of Russia about Kyiv possessing these are false, said the US leader. Also Read: Russian invasion triggers patriotism wave in Ukraine, turns inspiring tattoos, billboards popular At a Business Roundtable event, Biden said, Putin's "back is against the wall and now he's talking about new false flags he's setting up including, asserting that we in America have biological as well as chemical weapons in Europe, simply not true." "They are also suggesting that Ukraine has biological and chemical weapons in Ukraine. That's a clear sign he’s considering using both of those," added Biden, according to a Reuters report. Also Read: Russia-Ukraine War: As heavy bombardment follows, Mariupol forced to bury dead on roadside in makeshift graves Earlier, several officials in Washington and allied countries have also accused Russia of spreading an unproven claim about Ukraine having a biological weapons programme as an excuse to potentially launch its own such attacks. The defence ministry of Russia has accused Ukraine of looking to hold a chemical attack against its own people to accuse Moscow of using chemical weapons in the invasion. It has not supported its accusation with any evidence. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin looking to use biological, chemical weapons in Ukraine, Biden claims without proof

People fleeing what had been the relative safety of western Ukraine joined thousands crossing into eastern Europe on Monday after Russia attacked a Ukrainian base near the border with NATO-member Poland.

Ukraine said 35 people were killed at the base on Sunday. Moscow said up to 180 "foreign mercenaries" died and a large number of foreign weapons were destroyed.

Ukraine also reported renewed air strikes on an airport in the west of the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-warns-russia-might-be-planning-a-chemical-attack-on-ukraine-us-nato-un-echo-the-concern-462340">UK warns Russia might be planning a chemical attack on Ukraine; US, NATO echo the concern</a>

The number of&nbsp;refugees&nbsp;fleeing Ukraine since Russia invaded on Feb. 24 climbed to more than 2.8 million, United Nations data showed on Monday, in what has become Europe's fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War Two.

European Union officials have said 5 million may end up fleeing while others have put the figure higher.

Millions of people have also been displaced inside Ukraine, with many evacuated only as far as the quieter western regions, including to cities like Lviv.

Myroslava, 52, fled her home in the Ternopil region, in western Ukraine, and was waiting in a terminal of Krakow station in Poland to be picked up by acquaintances. She did not know where she would stay.

"We left because of the attack yesterday," she said, adding that she had hoped western Ukraine would be safe. "We weren't planning to leave, but as it was so close we decided to."

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki told a news conference with his counterparts from Ukraine and Lithuania that the attack near its border showed Russia wanted to "create panic among the civilian population".

Mira from Kyiv, travelling with her mother to Warsaw, said she had been surprised by the Russian attack near Lviv. "I just panicked and felt scared," she said.

Battles continued around many of Ukraine's main cities, including the capital Kyiv. Ukraine said it would try to evacuate civilians through 10 humanitarian corridors on Monday.

Russia denies targeting civilians, describing its actions as a "special operation" to demilitarise and "de-Nazify" Ukraine. Ukraine and Western allies call this a baseless pretext for Russia's invasion of the democratic country of 44 million.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-adds-11-members-of-russias-defense-enterprise-to-sanctions-list-462335">US adds 11 members of Russia's Defense Enterprise to sanctions list</a>

"Houses were blown up," Alena Kasinyska, a refugee from the town of Mykolaiv, in southern Ukraine, said after crossing into Romania at Isaccea, a busy border crossing in the Danube delta. "People have no place to live, we are scared."

Ukraine said it had begun "hard" talks on a ceasefire, immediate withdrawal of troops and security guarantees with Russia on Monday.

Both sides reported rare progress at the weekend after earlier rounds primarily focused on ceasefires to get aid to cities under siege by Russian forces and evacuate civilians. Those truces have frequently failed.

Beds and Soup

Frontline states such as Poland, which has welcomed well over half of the total number fleeing, and Slovakia, Romania, Hungary and Moldova, have taken in the vast majority of the&nbsp;refugees, some of whom have then headed on further west.

Poland's border guard said about 1.76 million people had entered the country since the fighting started, with 18,400 arriving during the early hours of Monday.

Temporary beds and make-shift canteens have sprung up at convention centers and disused shopping malls around the region while volunteers work long hours handing out free hot drinks and SIM cards, or shuttling&nbsp;refugees&nbsp;further west.

At a youth education center near Auschwitz, normally dedicated to preserving memories of the Holocaust and World War Two, nearly 2,000 meals had been served to&nbsp;refugees&nbsp;in the past couple of weeks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/20-killed-28-injured-in-missile-strike-by-ukraine-says-russia-462336">20 killed, 28 injured in missile strike by Ukraine, says Russia</a>

Further east, an international team of chefs and aid workers in the town Przemysl have served thousands of meals daily to the&nbsp;refugees&nbsp;streaming through Poland's busiest border crossing, Medyka, located nearby.

"We do a lot of soups because it's very cold and the&nbsp;refugees&nbsp;that are coming, they cannot carry like a big plate of food because they are carrying all their belongings," said Clara, a volunteer chef for aid NGO World Central Kitchen.

"We do hot chocolate, we do a lot of baby food as well."

Sympathy over the plight of their neighbours and deep-set memories of Moscow's dominance has seen a groundswell of volunteer efforts, but the sheer scale of the refugee crisis has raised fears of being overwhelmed.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine, Russia optimistic about round 4 of talks

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraine-russia-optimistic-about-round-4-of-talks-462334/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Some countries further away from Ukraine's borders, such as the Czech Republic, have also taken in tens of thousands of&nbsp;refugees, piling pressure on local authorities, while others, like Lithuania, have only just begun to receive significant numbers, with about 1,000 now arriving every day.

"Most of these are women with small children, some with only a handbag for luggage," said Kristina Meide, director of the Lithuanian Red Cross.

People fleeing what had been the relative safety of western Ukraine joined thousands crossing into eastern Europe on Monday after Russia attacked a Ukrainian base near the border with NATO-member Poland.

People fleeing what had been the relative safety of western Ukraine joined thousands crossing into eastern Europe on Monday after Russia attacked a Ukrainian base near the border with NATO-member Poland. Ukraine said 35 people were killed at the base on Sunday. Moscow said up to 180 "foreign mercenaries" died and a large number of foreign weapons were destroyed. Ukraine also reported renewed air strikes on an airport in the west of the country. Also read | UK warns Russia might be planning a chemical attack on Ukraine; US, NATO echo the concern The number of refugees fleeing Ukraine since Russia invaded on Feb. 24 climbed to more than 2.8 million, United Nations data showed on Monday, in what has become Europe's fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War Two. European Union officials have said 5 million may end up fleeing while others have put the figure higher. Millions of people have also been displaced inside Ukraine, with many evacuated only as far as the quieter western regions, including to cities like Lviv. Myroslava, 52, fled her home in the Ternopil region, in western Ukraine, and was waiting in a terminal of Krakow station in Poland to be picked up by acquaintances. She did not know where she would stay. "We left because of the attack yesterday," she said, adding that she had hoped western Ukraine would be safe. "We weren't planning to leave, but as it was so close we decided to." Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki told a news conference with his counterparts from Ukraine and Lithuania that the attack near its border showed Russia wanted to "create panic among the civilian population". Mira from Kyiv, travelling with her mother to Warsaw, said she had been surprised by the Russian attack near Lviv. "I just panicked and felt scared," she said. Battles continued around many of Ukraine's main cities, including the capital Kyiv. Ukraine said it would try to evacuate civilians through 10 humanitarian corridors on Monday. Russia denies targeting civilians, describing its actions as a "special operation" to demilitarise and "de-Nazify" Ukraine. Ukraine and Western allies call this a baseless pretext for Russia's invasion of the democratic country of 44 million. Also read | US adds 11 members of Russia's Defense Enterprise to sanctions list "Houses were blown up," Alena Kasinyska, a refugee from the town of Mykolaiv, in southern Ukraine, said after crossing into Romania at Isaccea, a busy border crossing in the Danube delta. "People have no place to live, we are scared." Ukraine said it had begun "hard" talks on a ceasefire, immediate withdrawal of troops and security guarantees with Russia on Monday. Both sides reported rare progress at the weekend after earlier rounds primarily focused on ceasefires to get aid to cities under siege by Russian forces and evacuate civilians. Those truces have frequently failed. Beds and Soup Frontline states such as Poland, which has welcomed well over half of the total number fleeing, and Slovakia, Romania, Hungary and Moldova, have taken in the vast majority of the refugees, some of whom have then headed on further west. Poland's border guard said about 1.76 million people had entered the country since the fighting started, with 18,400 arriving during the early hours of Monday. Temporary beds and make-shift canteens have sprung up at convention centers and disused shopping malls around the region while volunteers work long hours handing out free hot drinks and SIM cards, or shuttling refugees further west. At a youth education center near Auschwitz, normally dedicated to preserving memories of the Holocaust and World War Two, nearly 2,000 meals had been served to refugees in the past couple of weeks. Also read | 20 killed, 28 injured in missile strike by Ukraine, says Russia Further east, an international team of chefs and aid workers in the town Przemysl have served thousands of meals daily to the refugees streaming through Poland's busiest border crossing, Medyka, located nearby. "We do a lot of soups because it's very cold and the refugees that are coming, they cannot carry like a big plate of food because they are carrying all their belongings," said Clara, a volunteer chef for aid NGO World Central Kitchen. "We do hot chocolate, we do a lot of baby food as well." Sympathy over the plight of their neighbours and deep-set memories of Moscow's dominance has seen a groundswell of volunteer efforts, but the sheer scale of the refugee crisis has raised fears of being overwhelmed. Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine, Russia optimistic about round 4 of talks Some countries further away from Ukraine's borders, such as the Czech Republic, have also taken in tens of thousands of refugees, piling pressure on local authorities, while others, like Lithuania, have only just begun to receive significant numbers, with about 1,000 now arriving every day. "Most of these are women with small children, some with only a handbag for luggage," said Kristina Meide, director of the Lithuanian Red Cross.

Europe's fastest growing refugee crisis: In 20 days, 2.8 million people have fled Ukraine

Diplomatic efforts to end the war in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;were gearing up on Monday, with Ukrainian and&nbsp;Russian negotiators set to talk again after both sides cited progress, even though&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;attacked a&nbsp;base&nbsp;near the Polish border and fighting raged elsewhere.

A barrage of&nbsp;Russian missiles hit&nbsp;Ukraine's Yavoriv International Centre for Peacekeeping and Security, a&nbsp;base&nbsp;just 15 miles (25 km) from the Polish border that has previously hosted NATO military instructors, killing 35 people and wounding 134, a Ukrainian official said on Sunday.

Russia's defence ministry said up to 180 "foreign mercenaries" and a large number of foreign weapons were destroyed. Reuters could not independently verify the casualties reported by either side.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-war-who-is-chechen-warlord-ramzan-kadyrov-462074">Ukraine-Russia war: Who is Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov?</a>

Thousands of people have died since Feb. 24, when&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin launched what he called a special military operation to rid&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;of dangerous nationalists and Nazis.

The United States, which had watched&nbsp;Russia's build-up on&nbsp;Ukraine's borders with mounting alarm for weeks, says it was a premeditated, unjustified and unlawful "war of choice".

In a telephone call, U.S. President Joe Biden and France's Emmanuel Macron underscored their commitment to holding&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;accountable for the invasion, the White House said.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and his Ukrainian counterpart, Dmytro Kuleba, also discussed diplomatic efforts to stop&nbsp;Russia's invasion, the State Department said.

Hopes were boosted after&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;gave their most upbeat assessments following weekend negotiations.

"Russia&nbsp;is already beginning to talk constructively," Ukrainian negotiator Mykhailo Podolyak said in a video online. "I think that we will achieve some results literally in a matter of days."

A&nbsp;Russian delegate to the&nbsp;talks, Leonid Slutsky, was quoted by the RIA news agency as saying they had made significant progress and it was possible the delegations could soon reach draft agreements.

Ukraine&nbsp;said&nbsp;talks&nbsp;via video were set to start at 10:30 a.m. (0830 GMT). Neither side has said what they would cover. Three rounds of&nbsp;talks&nbsp;in Belarus, most recently last Monday, had focused mainly on humanitarian issues.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-tank-advance-in-ukraine-what-is-rasputitsa-462047">Russian tanks advance in Ukraine: What is 'Rasputitsa'?</a>

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the countries' delegations had been speaking daily by video link and a clear aim of his negotiators was to "do everything" to arrange for him to meet Putin.

"We must hold on. We must fight. And we will win," Zelenskiy said in a late night video speech.

Harsh Sanctions

Global financial markets, battered by fears the conflict could spread and drag in NATO, rallied on hopes for progress in peace&nbsp;talks. Stocks rose while oil prices gave up some of their massive recent gains.&nbsp;

Soaring energy costs and disruptions to supply chains caused by the fighting and sanctions have fuelled inflationary pressures worldwide.

Russian coal and fertiliser king Andrei Melnichenko said the war in&nbsp;Ukraine, a top producer of grains, must be stopped or there would be a global food crisis as fertilizer prices were already too high for many farmers.

"The events in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;are truly tragic. We urgently need peace," Melnichenko told Reuters.

The West has sanctioned&nbsp;Russian businessmen, including European Union sanctions on Melnichenko, frozen state assets and cut off much of the&nbsp;Russian corporate sector from the global economy in an attempt to force Putin to change course.

Russia's finance ministry said on Monday it had approved a temporary procedure for repaying foreign currency debt, but warned payments would be made in roubles if sanctions prevented banks from honouring debts in the currency of issue.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-not-for-free-says-zelensky-on-western-arms-sale-to-ukraine-462030">&nbsp;It's not for free, says Zelensky on Western arms sale to Ukraine</a>

Also,&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;has asked China for military equipment, sparking concern in the White House that Beijing may undermine Western efforts to help Ukrainian defenders, several U.S. officials said.

U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who is set to meet China's top diplomat Yang Jiechi in Rome on Monday, warned Beijing it would "absolutely" face consequences if it helped Moscow evade sanctions.

Asked about&nbsp;Russia's request for military aid, Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for China's embassy in Washington, said, "I've never heard of that."

China found the current situation in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;"disconcerting", he said, adding, "We support and encourage all efforts that are conducive to a peaceful settlement of the crisis."

Still, violence and bloodshed continued.

Air raid sirens sounded before dawn in many cities and regions of&nbsp;Ukraine, including Kyiv, Lviv, Odessa, Ivano-Frankivsk and Cherkasy.

In Kyiv, at least one person was killed and three injured when a shell hit a residential building, state television said, while the city administration said the Antonov aircraft plant there had been shelled.

Authorities said they were stockpiling two weeks' worth of food for the 2 million people who have not yet fled from&nbsp;Russian forces attempting to encircle the capital.

An American journalist was shot and killed by&nbsp;Russian forces in the town of Irpin, northwest of Kyiv, and another journalist was wounded, the regional police chief said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-warship-go-fck-yourself-ukraine-reveals-postage-stamp-462023">Russian warship 'go f*ck yourself': Ukraine reveals postage stamp</a>

Britain's defence ministry said&nbsp;Russian naval forces had established a distant blockade of&nbsp;Ukraine's Black Sea coast, isolating the country from international maritime trade.

In eastern&nbsp;Ukraine,&nbsp;Russian troops were trying to surround Ukrainian forces as they advance from the port of Mariupol in the south and the second city Kharkiv in the north, it added.

Russia's invasion has sent&nbsp;more&nbsp;than 2.5 million people fleeing across&nbsp;Ukraine's borders and trapped hundreds of thousands in besieged cities.

The United Nations says at least 596 civilians have died since the invasion began and the toll is probably considerably higher as it is difficult to confirm deaths in places such as Mariupol.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Why the West is winning the Information War

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-why-the-west-is-winning-the-information-war-461710/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The city council in Mariupol said 2,187 residents had been killed since the start of the invasion. Reuters was not able to verify that toll.

Moscow denies targeting civilians. It blames&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;for failed attempts to evacuate civilians from encircled cities, an accusation&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;and its Western allies strongly reject.

Diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine were gearing up on Monday, with Ukrainian and Russian negotiators set to talk again after both sides cited progress, even though Russia attacked a base near the Polish border and fighting raged elsewhere.

Diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine were gearing up on Monday, with Ukrainian and Russian negotiators set to talk again after both sides cited progress, even though Russia attacked a base near the Polish border and fighting raged elsewhere. A barrage of Russian missiles hit Ukraine's Yavoriv International Centre for Peacekeeping and Security, a base just 15 miles (25 km) from the Polish border that has previously hosted NATO military instructors, killing 35 people and wounding 134, a Ukrainian official said on Sunday. Russia's defence ministry said up to 180 "foreign mercenaries" and a large number of foreign weapons were destroyed. Reuters could not independently verify the casualties reported by either side. Also read | Ukraine-Russia war: Who is Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov? Thousands of people have died since Feb. 24, when Russian President Vladimir Putin launched what he called a special military operation to rid Ukraine of dangerous nationalists and Nazis. The United States, which had watched Russia's build-up on Ukraine's borders with mounting alarm for weeks, says it was a premeditated, unjustified and unlawful "war of choice". In a telephone call, U.S. President Joe Biden and France's Emmanuel Macron underscored their commitment to holding Russia accountable for the invasion, the White House said. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and his Ukrainian counterpart, Dmytro Kuleba, also discussed diplomatic efforts to stop Russia's invasion, the State Department said. Hopes were boosted after Russia and Ukraine gave their most upbeat assessments following weekend negotiations. "Russia is already beginning to talk constructively," Ukrainian negotiator Mykhailo Podolyak said in a video online. "I think that we will achieve some results literally in a matter of days." A Russian delegate to the talks, Leonid Slutsky, was quoted by the RIA news agency as saying they had made significant progress and it was possible the delegations could soon reach draft agreements. Ukraine said talks via video were set to start at 10:30 a.m. (0830 GMT). Neither side has said what they would cover. Three rounds of talks in Belarus, most recently last Monday, had focused mainly on humanitarian issues. Also read | Russian tanks advance in Ukraine: What is 'Rasputitsa'? Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the countries' delegations had been speaking daily by video link and a clear aim of his negotiators was to "do everything" to arrange for him to meet Putin. "We must hold on. We must fight. And we will win," Zelenskiy said in a late night video speech. Harsh Sanctions Global financial markets, battered by fears the conflict could spread and drag in NATO, rallied on hopes for progress in peace talks. Stocks rose while oil prices gave up some of their massive recent gains. Soaring energy costs and disruptions to supply chains caused by the fighting and sanctions have fuelled inflationary pressures worldwide. Russian coal and fertiliser king Andrei Melnichenko said the war in Ukraine, a top producer of grains, must be stopped or there would be a global food crisis as fertilizer prices were already too high for many farmers. "The events in Ukraine are truly tragic. We urgently need peace," Melnichenko told Reuters. The West has sanctioned Russian businessmen, including European Union sanctions on Melnichenko, frozen state assets and cut off much of the Russian corporate sector from the global economy in an attempt to force Putin to change course. Russia's finance ministry said on Monday it had approved a temporary procedure for repaying foreign currency debt, but warned payments would be made in roubles if sanctions prevented banks from honouring debts in the currency of issue. Also read | It's not for free, says Zelensky on Western arms sale to Ukraine Also, Russia has asked China for military equipment, sparking concern in the White House that Beijing may undermine Western efforts to help Ukrainian defenders, several U.S. officials said. U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who is set to meet China's top diplomat Yang Jiechi in Rome on Monday, warned Beijing it would "absolutely" face consequences if it helped Moscow evade sanctions. Asked about Russia's request for military aid, Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for China's embassy in Washington, said, "I've never heard of that." China found the current situation in Ukraine "disconcerting", he said, adding, "We support and encourage all efforts that are conducive to a peaceful settlement of the crisis." Still, violence and bloodshed continued. Air raid sirens sounded before dawn in many cities and regions of Ukraine, including Kyiv, Lviv, Odessa, Ivano-Frankivsk and Cherkasy. In Kyiv, at least one person was killed and three injured when a shell hit a residential building, state television said, while the city administration said the Antonov aircraft plant there had been shelled. Authorities said they were stockpiling two weeks' worth of food for the 2 million people who have not yet fled from Russian forces attempting to encircle the capital. An American journalist was shot and killed by Russian forces in the town of Irpin, northwest of Kyiv, and another journalist was wounded, the regional police chief said. Also read | Russian warship 'go f*ck yourself': Ukraine reveals postage stamp Britain's defence ministry said Russian naval forces had established a distant blockade of Ukraine's Black Sea coast, isolating the country from international maritime trade. In eastern Ukraine, Russian troops were trying to surround Ukrainian forces as they advance from the port of Mariupol in the south and the second city Kharkiv in the north, it added. Russia's invasion has sent more than 2.5 million people fleeing across Ukraine's borders and trapped hundreds of thousands in besieged cities. The United Nations says at least 596 civilians have died since the invasion began and the toll is probably considerably higher as it is difficult to confirm deaths in places such as Mariupol. Watch | Gravitas Plus: Why the West is winning the Information War The city council in Mariupol said 2,187 residents had been killed since the start of the invasion. Reuters was not able to verify that toll. Moscow denies targeting civilians. It blames Ukraine for failed attempts to evacuate civilians from encircled cities, an accusation Ukraine and its Western allies strongly reject.

More Ukraine-Russia talks scheduled as attack on base kills dozens

Russia&nbsp;said on Sunday that it was counting on&nbsp;China&nbsp;to help it withstand the blow to&nbsp;its&nbsp;economy from Western sanctions, which it said had&nbsp;frozen&nbsp;nearly&nbsp;half&nbsp;of&nbsp;its&nbsp;gold and foreign currency&nbsp;reserves.

“We have part of our gold and foreign exchange&nbsp;reserves&nbsp;in the Chinese currency, in yuan. And we see what pressure is being exerted by Western countries on&nbsp;China&nbsp;in order to limit mutual trade with&nbsp;China. Of course, there is pressure to limit access to those&nbsp;reserves," Finance Minister Anton Siluanov said.

"But I think that our partnership with&nbsp;China&nbsp;will still allow us to maintain the cooperation that we have achieved, and not only maintain, but also increase it in an environment where Western markets are closing."

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Western countries have imposed unprecedented sanctions on&nbsp;Russia's corporate and financial system since it invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24 in what it calls a special military operation.

Siluanov's comments in a TV interview marked the clearest statement yet from Moscow that it will seek help from&nbsp;China&nbsp;to cushion the impact.

The two countries have tightened cooperation in recent times as both have come under strong Western pressure over human rights and a raft of other issues.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Beijing on Feb. 4 and announced a strategic partnership they said was aimed at countering the influence of the United States, describing it as a friendship with no limits.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-conducts-airstrike-on-ukrainian-military-target-near-poland-9-dead-461872">Russia conducts airstrike on Ukrainian military target near Poland, 9 dead</a>

The sanctions on&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;reserves&nbsp;have become one of the most painful measures for the&nbsp;Russian economy.

A month ago, Siluanov said&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;would be able to withstand sanctions thanks to abundant&nbsp;reserves&nbsp;and was even considering offering Eurobonds to foreign investors once the market volatility subsides.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: How China is benefitting

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraine-invasion-how-china-is-benefitting-461456/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On Sunday he said the sanctions had&nbsp;frozen&nbsp;around $300 billion out of $640 billion that&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;had in&nbsp;its&nbsp;gold and forex&nbsp;reserves.

Siluanov also said&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;will fulfil&nbsp;its&nbsp;state debt obligations and will pay roubles to&nbsp;its&nbsp;debt holders until the state&nbsp;reserves&nbsp;are unfrozen.

Russia said on Sunday that it was counting on China to help it withstand the blow to its economy from Western sanctions, which it said had frozen nearly half of its gold and foreign currency reserves.

Russia said on Sunday that it was counting on China to help it withstand the blow to its economy from Western sanctions, which it said had frozen nearly half of its gold and foreign currency reserves. “We have part of our gold and foreign exchange reserves in the Chinese currency, in yuan. And we see what pressure is being exerted by Western countries on China in order to limit mutual trade with China. Of course, there is pressure to limit access to those reserves," Finance Minister Anton Siluanov said. "But I think that our partnership with China will still allow us to maintain the cooperation that we have achieved, and not only maintain, but also increase it in an environment where Western markets are closing." Also read | This cafe in India takes 'Russian Salad' off its menu to condemn Ukraine invasion Western countries have imposed unprecedented sanctions on Russia's corporate and financial system since it invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24 in what it calls a special military operation. Siluanov's comments in a TV interview marked the clearest statement yet from Moscow that it will seek help from China to cushion the impact. The two countries have tightened cooperation in recent times as both have come under strong Western pressure over human rights and a raft of other issues. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Beijing on Feb. 4 and announced a strategic partnership they said was aimed at countering the influence of the United States, describing it as a friendship with no limits. Also read | Russia conducts airstrike on Ukrainian military target near Poland, 9 dead The sanctions on Russian reserves have become one of the most painful measures for the Russian economy. A month ago, Siluanov said Russia would be able to withstand sanctions thanks to abundant reserves and was even considering offering Eurobonds to foreign investors once the market volatility subsides. Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: How China is benefitting On Sunday he said the sanctions had frozen around $300 billion out of $640 billion that Russia had in its gold and forex reserves. Siluanov also said Russia will fulfil its state debt obligations and will pay roubles to its debt holders until the state reserves are unfrozen.

Ukraine crisis: Russia says nearly half its reserves are frozen, counts on ties with China

Italy's prime minister called on Monday for&nbsp;European Union&nbsp;countries&nbsp;to act swiftly with&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;against&nbsp;Russian individuals and companies following Moscow's attack on Ukraine.

"And now we have to act, all of us, with speed on this point," Mario Draghi said in Brussels in brief comments to reporters ahead of a meeting with&nbsp;European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/more-than-4000-people-detained-at-anti-war-protests-in-russia-459908">More than 4,000 people detained at anti-war protests in Russia</a>

On Saturday, the Italian government said police seized villas and yachts worth 143 million&nbsp;euros ($154.94 million) from five high-profile&nbsp;Russians who were placed on&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;lists.

In separate remarks after meeting von der Leyen, Draghi said&nbsp;Italy, France and Germany were swiftly implementing&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;against&nbsp;Russian oligarchs, while "others less so". He didn't give further details.

"We don't rule out more&nbsp;sanctions, but we didn't discuss this (with von der Leyen)," Draghi said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-poutine-not-putin-classic-delicacy-falls-victim-to-russia-ukraine-conflict-goes-off-menu-459877">It’s Poutine, not Putin: Classic delicacy falls victim to Russia-Ukraine conflict, goes off menu</a>

Russia's invasion, which has been condemned around the world, has sent more than 1.5 million Ukrainians fleeing abroad and triggered sweeping&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;that have abruptly isolated&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;to a degree never before experienced by such a large economy.

The former&nbsp;European Central Bank chief said he believed&nbsp;Russia's aim was "to carry on until the country (Ukraine) has surrendered, probably set up a friendly government and defeat the resistance, that is what the facts show".

Watch |&nbsp;Over 1.5 million people have fled Ukraine since Russian invasion

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He said&nbsp;Italy&nbsp;has no objections to Ukraine becoming a member of the&nbsp;European Union, but added that this is a long procedure which usually&nbsp;needs deep reforms.

"We support Ukrainian membership of the&nbsp;European family," he said.

Italy's prime minister called on Monday for European Union countries to act swiftly with sanctions against Russian individuals and companies following Moscow's attack on Ukraine.

Italy's prime minister called on Monday for European Union countries to act swiftly with sanctions against Russian individuals and companies following Moscow's attack on Ukraine. "And now we have to act, all of us, with speed on this point," Mario Draghi said in Brussels in brief comments to reporters ahead of a meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Also read | More than 4,000 people detained at anti-war protests in Russia On Saturday, the Italian government said police seized villas and yachts worth 143 million euros ($154.94 million) from five high-profile Russians who were placed on sanctions lists. In separate remarks after meeting von der Leyen, Draghi said Italy, France and Germany were swiftly implementing sanctions against Russian oligarchs, while "others less so". He didn't give further details. "We don't rule out more sanctions, but we didn't discuss this (with von der Leyen)," Draghi said. Also read | It’s Poutine, not Putin: Classic delicacy falls victim to Russia-Ukraine conflict, goes off menu Russia's invasion, which has been condemned around the world, has sent more than 1.5 million Ukrainians fleeing abroad and triggered sweeping sanctions that have abruptly isolated Russia to a degree never before experienced by such a large economy. The former European Central Bank chief said he believed Russia's aim was "to carry on until the country (Ukraine) has surrendered, probably set up a friendly government and defeat the resistance, that is what the facts show". Watch | Over 1.5 million people have fled Ukraine since Russian invasion He said Italy has no objections to Ukraine becoming a member of the European Union, but added that this is a long procedure which usually needs deep reforms. "We support Ukrainian membership of the European family," he said.

Italy says EU countries need to move quickly on sanctions against Russia

Russia's invasion of Ukraine is an attack on not only this country, but also on the security of Europe, US President Joe Biden has said.

In an interaction with reporters during a bilateral meeting with President Niinist&nbsp;of Finland on Friday, Biden said the two nations have been in regular touch for some time now.

He said they have coordinated on a united, transatlantic response to the Russians and holding them accountable for their unprovoked and unjustifiable aggression against Ukraine.

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And we agreed it's not only an attack on Ukraine, it's an attack on the security of Europe and on global peace and stability,&nbsp;Biden said in the Oval Office of the White House.

Earlier in the day, Biden spoke with President Andrzej Duda of Poland to discuss their countries' response, and those of allies, to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, including ongoing efforts to impose severe consequences on Russia.

Biden underscored the United States' commitment to the security of Poland and all of our NATO Allies, White House said in a statement of the call.

He welcomed Poland's partnership in hosting 9,000 US forces, including 4,700 additional service members deployed there in recent weeks, to reassure eastern flank allies, deter Russian aggression against NATO, read the statement.

In Brussels, Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, said the US has sent an additional 7,000 troops to Europe and repositioned its forces already on the continent to strengthen NATO's eastern flank.

We continue to tighten our severe economic sanctions on Russia, he said.

Yesterday, President Putin said his so-called special military operation' is proceeding exactly as planned.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/green-light-for-bombing-zelensky-lashes-out-at-nato-for-ruling-out-ukraine-no-fly-zone-459118">&nbsp;'Green light for bombing': Zelensky lashes out at NATO for ruling out Ukraine no-fly zone</a>

Well, it's hard to imagine that his plan included inspiring the Ukrainian people to defend their country with such tenacity; strengthening the resolve and solidarity of NATO and the EU; uniting the world in opposition to Moscow, including 141 countries at the United Nations, he said.

Blinken continued saying that the Russian invasion has apparently come to unite an unprecedented number of international businesses, associations, cultural institutions that have cut ties with Russia and caused the Russian economy to go into freefall".

He said the country's financial state has motivated tens of thousands of Russians to protest and countless more to leave the country, and is "increasingly turning Russia into a pariah state.

If that was President Putin's plan, well, you can say it's working. Russia has never been so isolated; we have never been more united, Blinken said.

Earlier, Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin had a chance to speak with the Polish Minister of Defence Mariusz Blaszczak to discuss impacts of the precious unprovoked and unjust war against Ukraine, his spokesperson John Kirby said.

A deconflation line has been placed between the US and Russia, he said.

It's only been in place for a couple of days, I think since early this week. It is basically a phone line, a phone connection to the Russian Ministry of Defense. It is being administered out of European Command Headquarters, Kirby said in response to a question.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: The tale of two wartime leaders

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When we tested it, they did pick up the other end. And they acknowledged that they got the call. So, we know it works. We think again, this is as we've done before, like in Syria, we think it's valuable to have a direct communication vehicle at that level at an operational level. To reduce the risks of miscalculation, Kirby said.

And to be able to communicate in real time if need be. Particularly because now the airspace over Ukraine is contested by both Russian and Ukrainian aircraft. So that contested airspace now buttress is right up against NATO. So smart thing to do. And we're glad it's in place. We're glad that the Russians have acknowledged that they will use it, he added.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine is an attack on not only this country, but also on the security of Europe, US President Joe Biden has said. In an interaction with reporters during a bilateral meeting with President Niinist of Finland on Friday, Biden said the two nations have been in regular touch for some time now.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine is an attack on not only this country, but also on the security of Europe, US President Joe Biden has said. In an interaction with reporters during a bilateral meeting with President Niinist of Finland on Friday, Biden said the two nations have been in regular touch for some time now. He said they have coordinated on a united, transatlantic response to the Russians and holding them accountable for their unprovoked and unjustifiable aggression against Ukraine. Also read | Ukraine under attack: Russia accuses 'Ukrainian nationalists' of 'forcibly' holding over 3,700 Indians And we agreed it's not only an attack on Ukraine, it's an attack on the security of Europe and on global peace and stability, Biden said in the Oval Office of the White House. Earlier in the day, Biden spoke with President Andrzej Duda of Poland to discuss their countries' response, and those of allies, to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, including ongoing efforts to impose severe consequences on Russia. Biden underscored the United States' commitment to the security of Poland and all of our NATO Allies, White House said in a statement of the call. He welcomed Poland's partnership in hosting 9,000 US forces, including 4,700 additional service members deployed there in recent weeks, to reassure eastern flank allies, deter Russian aggression against NATO, read the statement. In Brussels, Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, said the US has sent an additional 7,000 troops to Europe and repositioned its forces already on the continent to strengthen NATO's eastern flank. We continue to tighten our severe economic sanctions on Russia, he said. Yesterday, President Putin said his so-called special military operation' is proceeding exactly as planned. Also read | 'Green light for bombing': Zelensky lashes out at NATO for ruling out Ukraine no-fly zone Well, it's hard to imagine that his plan included inspiring the Ukrainian people to defend their country with such tenacity; strengthening the resolve and solidarity of NATO and the EU; uniting the world in opposition to Moscow, including 141 countries at the United Nations, he said. Blinken continued saying that the Russian invasion has apparently come to unite an unprecedented number of international businesses, associations, cultural institutions that have cut ties with Russia and caused the Russian economy to go into freefall". He said the country's financial state has motivated tens of thousands of Russians to protest and countless more to leave the country, and is "increasingly turning Russia into a pariah state. If that was President Putin's plan, well, you can say it's working. Russia has never been so isolated; we have never been more united, Blinken said. Earlier, Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin had a chance to speak with the Polish Minister of Defence Mariusz Blaszczak to discuss impacts of the precious unprovoked and unjust war against Ukraine, his spokesperson John Kirby said. A deconflation line has been placed between the US and Russia, he said. It's only been in place for a couple of days, I think since early this week. It is basically a phone line, a phone connection to the Russian Ministry of Defense. It is being administered out of European Command Headquarters, Kirby said in response to a question. Watch | Gravitas: The tale of two wartime leaders When we tested it, they did pick up the other end. And they acknowledged that they got the call. So, we know it works. We think again, this is as we've done before, like in Syria, we think it's valuable to have a direct communication vehicle at that level at an operational level. To reduce the risks of miscalculation, Kirby said. And to be able to communicate in real time if need be. Particularly because now the airspace over Ukraine is contested by both Russian and Ukrainian aircraft. So that contested airspace now buttress is right up against NATO. So smart thing to do. And we're glad it's in place. We're glad that the Russians have acknowledged that they will use it, he added.

Russian attack on Ukraine an attack on security of Europe, global peace: Biden

Known to always speak his mind, comedian and TV host John Oliver made some scathing remarks on Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday's episode of 'Last Week Tonight'.&nbsp; 
 
During the episode, Oliver said, "Putin is a lot of things: he's an autocrat, a tyrant, a warmonger. But also, he's kinda a huge b***h." 
 
His comments were in response to a conversation that took place during a security meeting at the Kremlin last Monday, between Putin and Sergey Naryshkin, Russia's director of foreign intelligence. 
 
Putin badgered Naryshkin, to take a formal stand regarding the independence of the Ukraine cities of Donetsk and Luhansk. But Naryshkin was voicing his support of diplomacy with Ukraine one last time before going to war. 
 
Oliver commented on the obvious fear Naryshkin must have been feeling while being asked by Putin to take a stand on a subject they seemed to disagree on. 
 
"Unfortunately for that guy, he clearly forgot the best strategy for public speaking in Russia which is: just imagine the entire audience in their underwear, and Vladimir Putin pointing a pistol at your head. It really focuses the mind," Oliver added.&nbsp; 
Putin commenced Russia's military operation on the sovereign nation, on February 24. A day later, Russia seized control of Chernobyl.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Known to always speak his mind, comedian and TV host John Oliver made some scathing remarks on Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday's episode of 'Last Week Tonight'.

Known to always speak his mind, comedian and TV host John Oliver made some scathing remarks on Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday's episode of 'Last Week Tonight'. During the episode, Oliver said, "Putin is a lot of things: he's an autocrat, a tyrant, a warmonger. But also, he's kinda a huge b***h." His comments were in response to a conversation that took place during a security meeting at the Kremlin last Monday, between Putin and Sergey Naryshkin, Russia's director of foreign intelligence. Putin badgered Naryshkin, to take a formal stand regarding the independence of the Ukraine cities of Donetsk and Luhansk. But Naryshkin was voicing his support of diplomacy with Ukraine one last time before going to war. Oliver commented on the obvious fear Naryshkin must have been feeling while being asked by Putin to take a stand on a subject they seemed to disagree on. "Unfortunately for that guy, he clearly forgot the best strategy for public speaking in Russia which is: just imagine the entire audience in their underwear, and Vladimir Putin pointing a pistol at your head. It really focuses the mind," Oliver added. Putin commenced Russia's military operation on the sovereign nation, on February 24. A day later, Russia seized control of Chernobyl.

John Oliver calls out Russian President Vladimir Putin on 'Last Week Tonight'

Russian 'sabotage groups' have entered Kyiv, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky warns in a video address to the nation. Zelensky says "the enemy's sabotage groups have entered Kyiv," and urged residents to be vigilant and observe curfew rules. #ukraine #russia #ukraineconflict #invasion

‘We are not afraid’: Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenksy’s message amid Russia’s assault

During his visit to India for the 21st annual India-Russia summit on Monday (December 6), President Vladimir Putin addressed the issue of the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan. He also talked about other key areas with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in order to bolster Indo-Russia ties.&nbsp;

In his opening remark, Putin said, "We're concerned about everything that has to do with terrorism. The fight against terrorism is also a fight against drug trafficking and organised crime. In that regard, we are concerned about developments of the situation in Afghanistan."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gift-from-gujarat-pm-narendra-modi-gives-exquisite-agate-bowls-to-russian-president-vladimir-putin-434688">Gift from Gujarat: PM Narendra Modi gives exquisite Agate Bowls to Russian President Vladimir Putin</a>

The Russian President lauded India as "a great power", a friendly nation and a time-tested friend. He further said that the relations between India and Russia are "growing" and he is looking into the future.&nbsp;

He added, "Currently, mutual investments stand at about 38 billion with a bit more investment coming from the Russian side. We cooperate greatly in the military and technical sphere like no other country. We develop high technologies together as well as produce in India."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-perceive-india-as-a-great-power-and-trusted-friend-says-president-putin-to-pm-modi-434635">We perceive India as a great power and trusted friend, says President Putin to PM Modi</a>

During the summit, both the nations signed a record 28 MoUs and agreements across a wide range of sectors including, defence, trade, energy, culture, intellectual property accountancy and education.&nbsp;

The visit was in continuation of the tradition of annual summits held alternately in India and Russia. Earlier in the day, the two countries held their first 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue.&nbsp;

India and Russia on Monday signed an agreement for the procurement of 6,01,427 assault rifles AK-203 through Indo-Russia Rifles Pvt Ltd, under the military-technical cooperation arrangement for 2021-31.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Russian President Putin's India visit is short but highly productive, says Indian MEA

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During his visit to India for the 21st annual India-Russia summit on Monday (December 6), President Vladimir Putin addressed the issue of the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan.

During his visit to India for the 21st annual India-Russia summit on Monday (December 6), President Vladimir Putin addressed the issue of the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan. He also talked about other key areas with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in order to bolster Indo-Russia ties. In his opening remark, Putin said, "We're concerned about everything that has to do with terrorism. The fight against terrorism is also a fight against drug trafficking and organised crime. In that regard, we are concerned about developments of the situation in Afghanistan." ALSO READ | Gift from Gujarat: PM Narendra Modi gives exquisite Agate Bowls to Russian President Vladimir Putin The Russian President lauded India as "a great power", a friendly nation and a time-tested friend. He further said that the relations between India and Russia are "growing" and he is looking into the future. He added, "Currently, mutual investments stand at about 38 billion with a bit more investment coming from the Russian side. We cooperate greatly in the military and technical sphere like no other country. We develop high technologies together as well as produce in India." ALSO READ | We perceive India as a great power and trusted friend, says President Putin to PM Modi During the summit, both the nations signed a record 28 MoUs and agreements across a wide range of sectors including, defence, trade, energy, culture, intellectual property accountancy and education. The visit was in continuation of the tradition of annual summits held alternately in India and Russia. Earlier in the day, the two countries held their first 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue. India and Russia on Monday signed an agreement for the procurement of 6,01,427 assault rifles AK-203 through Indo-Russia Rifles Pvt Ltd, under the military-technical cooperation arrangement for 2021-31. Watch: Russian President Putin's India visit is short but highly productive, says Indian MEA ×

Modi-Putin Summit: Russian President says the situation in Afghanistan is 'concerning'

The official website of the Kremlin on Sunday (September 26) published a series of appealing photos in which Russian President Vladimir Putin can be seen hiking and fishing in Siberia.&nbsp;

Kremlin stated that the Russian President stopped over in Siberia for a short vacation, following a working trip to the Primorye Territory and the Amur Region in early September.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-yo-jong-says-peace-will-come-only-if-south-shows-respect-416140">North Korea's Kim Yo-jong says peace will come only if South shows 'respect'</a>

The statement also revealed that Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu accompanied Putin on his trip.&nbsp;

Well, such adventurous trips&nbsp;is nothing new for the multi-talented Putin, who previously has been pictured riding a horse bare-chested and in sunglasses, as well as carrying a hunting rifle and piloting a fighter jet.&nbsp;

Now, the Kremlin has published photos of Putin standing in a river and catching a fish, walking through lush meadows.&nbsp;

<img alt="Vladimir Putin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43d34833-d65b-473b-8787-12a1b1149340" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2021-09-26T075004Z_1_LYNXMPEH8P02S_RTROPTP_4_RUSSIA-PUTIN-VACATIONS.JPG" />

Image:&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;spends a short vacation at an unknown location in Siberia, Russia. Source: Reuters

<img alt="Vladimir Putin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="597d992c-420a-4e19-9ac4-11e109981438" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2021-09-26T075004Z_1_LYNXMPEH8P02R_RTROPTP_4_RUSSIA-PUTIN-VACATIONS.JPG" />

Image: Russian President Vladimir&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;fishes during a short vacation at an unknown location in Siberia. Source: Reuters

<img alt="Vladimir Putin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8ddd1ee3-0868-4a0d-bf8b-5b5461c2b1c6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Putin_0.jpg" />

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Image:&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;spends a short vacation at an unknown location in Siberia Russia. Source: Reuters

<img alt="Vladimir Putin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f64e77de-1480-4960-947f-1af3191aa723" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/putin%20%282%29.jpg" />

Image:&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;spends a short vacation at an unknown location in Siberia Russia. Source: Reuters

In September mid, the 68-year-old Putin cancelled all in-person events and said he was self-isolating after announcing an outbreak in the Kremlin.

Several people in Putin's entourage tested positive for the Coronavirus, the Russian leader had revealed amid rising infection rates in Russia.&nbsp;

"Cases of the coronavirus were detected in my inner circle. Not just one or two but several dozen people," Putin said, speaking via video link at a meeting of a Moscow-led security alliance.&nbsp;

Putin, 68, has had two shots of Russia's Sputnik V vaccine. The Kremlin has said he was feeling healthy.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The official website of the Kremlin on Sunday (September 26) published a series of appealing photos in which Russian President Vladimir Putin can be seen hiking and fishing in Siberia.

The official website of the Kremlin on Sunday (September 26) published a series of appealing photos in which Russian President Vladimir Putin can be seen hiking and fishing in Siberia. Kremlin stated that the Russian President stopped over in Siberia for a short vacation, following a working trip to the Primorye Territory and the Amur Region in early September. ALSO READ | North Korea's Kim Yo-jong says peace will come only if South shows 'respect' The statement also revealed that Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu accompanied Putin on his trip. Well, such adventurous trips is nothing new for the multi-talented Putin, who previously has been pictured riding a horse bare-chested and in sunglasses, as well as carrying a hunting rifle and piloting a fighter jet. Now, the Kremlin has published photos of Putin standing in a river and catching a fish, walking through lush meadows. Image: Russian President Vladimir Putin spends a short vacation at an unknown location in Siberia, Russia. Source: Reuters Image: Russian President Vladimir Putin fishes during a short vacation at an unknown location in Siberia. Source: Reuters Image: Russian President Vladimir Putin spends a short vacation at an unknown location in Siberia Russia. Source: Reuters Image: Russian President Vladimir Putin spends a short vacation at an unknown location in Siberia Russia. Source: Reuters In September mid, the 68-year-old Putin cancelled all in-person events and said he was self-isolating after announcing an outbreak in the Kremlin. Several people in Putin's entourage tested positive for the Coronavirus, the Russian leader had revealed amid rising infection rates in Russia. "Cases of the coronavirus were detected in my inner circle. Not just one or two but several dozen people," Putin said, speaking via video link at a meeting of a Moscow-led security alliance. Putin, 68, has had two shots of Russia's Sputnik V vaccine. The Kremlin has said he was feeling healthy. (With inputs from agencies)

Kremlin releases photos of Vladimir Putin hiking and fishing in Siberia

US President met Russian President Vladimir <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/always-better-to-meet-face-to-face-biden-tells-putin-at-geneva-summit-391892">Putin</a> as the two world leaders sat down to hold lengthy discussions on a range of issues on Wednesday at the picturesque villa in Geneva.

Watch:

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Biden set the tone of the meeting, saying: "We try to determine where we have mutual interests and cooperate and where we don't, establish a predictable and rational way in which we disagree."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-blog-us-president-joe-biden-russian-president-vladimir-putin-hold-historic-summit-in-geneva-391919">Biden-Putin summit updates</a>

Both leaders looked ready and relaxed to discuss matters as the summit&nbsp;began with Putin asserting that issues needed to be discussed while hoping for a "productive" meeting.

"I know that you have been on a long trip and had a lot of work, still the US-Russian relations have a lot of issues accumulated that require meetings at the highest level," Putin told Biden as both leaders shook hands to start the meeting.

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Putin arrived directly for the meeting amid tight security as his motorcade made its way through the Swiss city. The US president had arrived a day earlier for the summit.

"I'm not looking for conflict," Biden had said earlier, while adding,"we will respond if Russia continues its harmful activities".

US President met Russian President Vladimir Putin as the two world leaders sat down to hold lengthy discussions on a range of issues on Wednesday at the picturesque villa in Geneva.

US President met Russian President Vladimir Putin as the two world leaders sat down to hold lengthy discussions on a range of issues on Wednesday at the picturesque villa in Geneva. Watch: Biden set the tone of the meeting, saying: "We try to determine where we have mutual interests and cooperate and where we don't, establish a predictable and rational way in which we disagree." Biden-Putin summit updates Both leaders looked ready and relaxed to discuss matters as the summit began with Putin asserting that issues needed to be discussed while hoping for a "productive" meeting. "I know that you have been on a long trip and had a lot of work, still the US-Russian relations have a lot of issues accumulated that require meetings at the highest level," Putin told Biden as both leaders shook hands to start the meeting. Putin arrived directly for the meeting amid tight security as his motorcade made its way through the Swiss city. The US president had arrived a day earlier for the summit. "I'm not looking for conflict," Biden had said earlier, while adding,"we will respond if Russia continues its harmful activities".

Biden seeks 'mutual interests' & 'rational way' with Putin

A day after the Belarusian leader was welcomed by Russian President Vladimir Putin, European Union’s diplomatic chief has said that the European Union does not recognize Alexander Lukashenko as the legitimate president of Belarus. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-women-protest-in-belarus-demanding-lukashenkos-resignation-327120">Also read | Thousands of women protest in Belarus demanding Lukashenko's resignation</a> 
 
Josep Borrell, the EU’s high representative for foreign affairs, told the European Parliament the August 9 election that returned the veteran strongman to power was fraudulent. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-protest-leader-says-she-was-threatened-with-expulsion-alive-or-in-bits-326689">Also read | Belarus protest leader says she was threatened with expulsion 'alive or in bits'</a>

“The situation is clear for us. We consider the elections of August 9 fraudulent. We don’t recognize Lukashenko as the legitimate president of Belarus”, - said Borrell.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-belarus-falls-russia-will-be-next-says-lukashenko-326093">Also read | If Belarus falls, Russia will be next, says Lukashenko</a> 
 
He added that more than 7,500 peaceful protesters have been detained and 500 cases of torture have been documented. 
 
Unprecedented demonstrations broke out in Belarus last month after strongman President Alexander Lukashenko, who has ruled the ex-Soviet state for 26 years, claimed to have defeated opposition candidate Svetlana Tikhanovskaya and won re-election with 80 percent of the vote on August 9. 
 
Protesters say the election was rigged to hand Lukashenko a phoney landslide win and that Tikhanovskaya - who has since fled to Lithuania - was the real winner. 
 
Thousands of protesters were on the roads, potentially setting the scene for a new show-down with riot police.&nbsp; 
 
As the demand for change intensifies and reaches even the factories that are the pride of Alexander Lukashenko’s neo-Soviet economy, the authoritarian ruler ends the week clinging on to power in defiance of an ever-broader coalition of opponents. But from the beginning, this has been an uprising inspired and led by women. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

A day after the Belarusian leader was welcomed by Russian President Vladimir Putin, European Union’s diplomatic chief has said that the European Union does not recognize Alexander Lukashenko as the legitimate president of Belarus.

A day after the Belarusian leader was welcomed by Russian President Vladimir Putin, European Union’s diplomatic chief has said that the European Union does not recognize Alexander Lukashenko as the legitimate president of Belarus. Also read | Thousands of women protest in Belarus demanding Lukashenko's resignation Josep Borrell, the EU’s high representative for foreign affairs, told the European Parliament the August 9 election that returned the veteran strongman to power was fraudulent. Also read | Belarus protest leader says she was threatened with expulsion 'alive or in bits' “The situation is clear for us. We consider the elections of August 9 fraudulent. We don’t recognize Lukashenko as the legitimate president of Belarus”, - said Borrell. Also read | If Belarus falls, Russia will be next, says Lukashenko He added that more than 7,500 peaceful protesters have been detained and 500 cases of torture have been documented. Unprecedented demonstrations broke out in Belarus last month after strongman President Alexander Lukashenko, who has ruled the ex-Soviet state for 26 years, claimed to have defeated opposition candidate Svetlana Tikhanovskaya and won re-election with 80 percent of the vote on August 9. Protesters say the election was rigged to hand Lukashenko a phoney landslide win and that Tikhanovskaya - who has since fled to Lithuania - was the real winner. Thousands of protesters were on the roads, potentially setting the scene for a new show-down with riot police. As the demand for change intensifies and reaches even the factories that are the pride of Alexander Lukashenko’s neo-Soviet economy, the authoritarian ruler ends the week clinging on to power in defiance of an ever-broader coalition of opponents. But from the beginning, this has been an uprising inspired and led by women. (With inputs from agencies)

We don't recognise Lukashenko as legitimate president: European Union

Vladimir Putin rose to power in Russia at the cusp of the 21st century. In 20 years, he has shaped modern-day Russia.

Since taking office in 1999, Vladimir Putin has established close ties with Iran and China. He is playing a major and defining role in the Syrian civil war as well.

The Russian President so far has been successful in projecting himself as a strongman at home while showcasing Russia as a mighty power globally.

Vladimir Putin is an influential figure, not just in Russia, but the entire world. That's the reason why we must pay attention to the events that are unfolding in Russia.

No one really expects Putin to leave public life in a hurry, but there are a few reasons behind the push to remove the term limits.&nbsp; 
 
WATCH: Vladimir Putin may remain President, but Russia faces multiple challenges 
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Russia is staring at major challenges - the country's growth almost halved in 2019, and with the coronavirus outbreak, it could slow down even further.

Also, Russia is locked in a spat with Saudi Arabia over oil prices. The OPEC bloc was demanding cuts in Russia's oil production,&nbsp;but Moscow disagreed, as it would have threatened a key source of revenue.

It is a situation that allows Putin to sell the plans to extend his term. In his speech to the DUMA - the Russian President hinted at the same.

Putin said that he 'strongly believes' that a strong 'presidential vertical' is necessary for Russia. But, the Russian President went on to say that in the years to come, the post of the President must see regular changes. In other words, a change of guard is necessary, but not now.

By removing the term limits, Putin has joined a club of global leaders, that have prolonged their tenures one way or another.

This includes Chinese president Xi Jinping and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. This also reflects a global trend.

Since the year 2000, about one-third of all Presidents in the world who reached the end of the term made an attempt to stay on. 
Two out of three leaders who tried succeeded.

Putin began 2020 by ordering a shake-up of his own government. Dmitry Medvedev resigned as the Prime Minister - the entire cabinet was rejigged.

The move sent a message to the world - Vladimir Putin intends on staying in-charge for the foreseeable future.

The removal of term limits now means Putin - the modern-day Tzar who has been in control of Russia since 2000 is not going anywhere. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

Vladimir Putin rose to power in Russia at the cusp of the 21st century. In 20 years, he has shaped modern-day Russia. Since taking office in 1999, Vladimir Putin has established close ties with Iran and China.

Vladimir Putin rose to power in Russia at the cusp of the 21st century. In 20 years, he has shaped modern-day Russia. Since taking office in 1999, Vladimir Putin has established close ties with Iran and China. He is playing a major and defining role in the Syrian civil war as well. The Russian President so far has been successful in projecting himself as a strongman at home while showcasing Russia as a mighty power globally. Vladimir Putin is an influential figure, not just in Russia, but the entire world. That's the reason why we must pay attention to the events that are unfolding in Russia. No one really expects Putin to leave public life in a hurry, but there are a few reasons behind the push to remove the term limits. WATCH: Vladimir Putin may remain President, but Russia faces multiple challenges × Russia is staring at major challenges - the country's growth almost halved in 2019, and with the coronavirus outbreak, it could slow down even further. Also, Russia is locked in a spat with Saudi Arabia over oil prices. The OPEC bloc was demanding cuts in Russia's oil production, but Moscow disagreed, as it would have threatened a key source of revenue. It is a situation that allows Putin to sell the plans to extend his term. In his speech to the DUMA - the Russian President hinted at the same. Putin said that he 'strongly believes' that a strong 'presidential vertical' is necessary for Russia. But, the Russian President went on to say that in the years to come, the post of the President must see regular changes. In other words, a change of guard is necessary, but not now. By removing the term limits, Putin has joined a club of global leaders, that have prolonged their tenures one way or another. This includes Chinese president Xi Jinping and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. This also reflects a global trend. Since the year 2000, about one-third of all Presidents in the world who reached the end of the term made an attempt to stay on. Two out of three leaders who tried succeeded. Putin began 2020 by ordering a shake-up of his own government. Dmitry Medvedev resigned as the Prime Minister - the entire cabinet was rejigged. The move sent a message to the world - Vladimir Putin intends on staying in-charge for the foreseeable future. The removal of term limits now means Putin - the modern-day Tzar who has been in control of Russia since 2000 is not going anywhere. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Vladimir Putin may remain President for life

Northrop Grumman Systems Corp. was awarded a $13 million contract from Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) for its "Glide Beaker" program. The contract is for the research, development, and demonstration of technology that is critical for enabling an advanced interceptor capable of engaging and manoeuvring "hypersonic" threats in the upper atmosphere.

Ever since Russian President Vladimir Putin announced successfully developing an 'invincible' hypersonic missile, the United States has been bolstering its investment in hypersonic weapons. But, one of the major concerns remains the protection from these "Avangard" hypersonic missiles.

President Putin earlier claimed that the "Avangard" hypersonic missiles, believed to be located in the Urals mountain range in Western Russia, can deliver warheads at 27 times the speed of sound. Russian President went on saying, "not a single country possesses hypersonic weapons, let alone continental-range hypersonic weapons," as reported by news agency AFP. &nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/were-constructing-many-hypersonic-missiles-us-president-donald-trump-273112">We're constructing many hypersonic missiles - US President Donald Trump</a>

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<h5>"The Avangard is invulnerable to intercept by any existing and prospective missile defence means of the potential adversary, " Putin had said.</h5>
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"The Avangard is invulnerable to intercept by any existing and prospective missile defence means of the potential adversary, " he added.

Glide Breaker should be tested in 2020 and the reason behind this is that the US is in a bit of rush. Hypersonic weapons may be able to penetrate US missile defences. Recent "drone" attacks on key Saudi oil facility Aramco on 14 September 2019, revealed the limits of US-made Patriot surface-to-air missiles. The Aramco facility under attack had a fleet of six Patriot surface-to-air missiles and associated radars. The Patriots didn’t stop the recent attack.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-first-avangard-hypersonic-missiles-enter-service-270620">Russia says first Avangard hypersonic missiles enter service</a>

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First artist’s concept for Glide Breaker, a Darpa-funded technology to defeat hypersonic weapons, revealed at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/darpa60?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#darpa60</a>. More coverage to follow in <a href="https://twitter.com/AviationWeek?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AviationWeek</a>. <a href="https://t.co/Ep6HmBVHzu">pic.twitter.com/Ep6HmBVHzu</a>
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The race for "hypersonic weapons" is not just limited to the US and Russia. China - which is estimated to be the world's second-largest armament maker after the US according to a recent report by Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI ) - is also close on the heels. China recently demonstrated the DF-17 hypersonic missile. China claims that the DF-17 hypersonic missile can travel faster than five times the speed of sound and is believed to "transform" Beijing's might in advance weaponry. The DF-17 first appeared in public in Beijing during a military parade celebrating the 70th anniversary of the founding of Communist China.

Whether it is Russia, China or the US, they initiated the pursuit of "hypersonic weapons" for unique strategy purposes but the recent accelerated rush reflects on their efforts to overtake their rivals in a classic race called "arms race". 
&nbsp;

Northrop Grumman Systems Corp. was awarded a $13 million contract from Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) for its "Glide Beaker" program. The contract is for the research, development, and demonstration of technology that is critical for enabling an advanced interceptor capable of engaging and manoeuvring "hypersonic" threats in the upper atmosphere.

Northrop Grumman Systems Corp. was awarded a $13 million contract from Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) for its "Glide Beaker" program. The contract is for the research, development, and demonstration of technology that is critical for enabling an advanced interceptor capable of engaging and manoeuvring "hypersonic" threats in the upper atmosphere. Ever since Russian President Vladimir Putin announced successfully developing an 'invincible' hypersonic missile, the United States has been bolstering its investment in hypersonic weapons. But, one of the major concerns remains the protection from these "Avangard" hypersonic missiles. President Putin earlier claimed that the "Avangard" hypersonic missiles, believed to be located in the Urals mountain range in Western Russia, can deliver warheads at 27 times the speed of sound. Russian President went on saying, "not a single country possesses hypersonic weapons, let alone continental-range hypersonic weapons," as reported by news agency AFP. Also read: We're constructing many hypersonic missiles - US President Donald Trump "The Avangard is invulnerable to intercept by any existing and prospective missile defence means of the potential adversary, " Putin had said. × "The Avangard is invulnerable to intercept by any existing and prospective missile defence means of the potential adversary, " he added. Glide Breaker should be tested in 2020 and the reason behind this is that the US is in a bit of rush. Hypersonic weapons may be able to penetrate US missile defences. Recent "drone" attacks on key Saudi oil facility Aramco on 14 September 2019, revealed the limits of US-made Patriot surface-to-air missiles. The Aramco facility under attack had a fleet of six Patriot surface-to-air missiles and associated radars. The Patriots didn’t stop the recent attack. Also read: Russia says first Avangard hypersonic missiles enter service First artist’s concept for Glide Breaker, a Darpa-funded technology to defeat hypersonic weapons, revealed at #darpa60. More coverage to follow in @AviationWeek. pic.twitter.com/Ep6HmBVHzu — Steve Trimble (@TheDEWLine) September 6, 2018 × The race for "hypersonic weapons" is not just limited to the US and Russia. China - which is estimated to be the world's second-largest armament maker after the US according to a recent report by Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI ) - is also close on the heels. China recently demonstrated the DF-17 hypersonic missile. China claims that the DF-17 hypersonic missile can travel faster than five times the speed of sound and is believed to "transform" Beijing's might in advance weaponry. The DF-17 first appeared in public in Beijing during a military parade celebrating the 70th anniversary of the founding of Communist China. Whether it is Russia, China or the US, they initiated the pursuit of "hypersonic weapons" for unique strategy purposes but the recent accelerated rush reflects on their efforts to overtake their rivals in a classic race called "arms race".

Pentagon looks for 'defence' to Putin's 'invincible' hypersonic missiles

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (October 2) dismissed environmental activist Greta Thunberg as a kind but poorly informed teenager manipulated into making unrealistic demands in her United Nations speech last month. Watch this video to know more.

Russian President Vladimir Putin criticises Greta Thunberg's UN speech

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Ankara on Monday (September 16) for a trilateral summit on Syria.

Leaders of Turkey, Iran and Russia gather for Syria talks

Kyrylo Vyshynsky, a Russian-Ukrainian journalist flown to Moscow as part of a landmark prisoner swap with Kiev, on Monday thanked President Vladimir Putin and said his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/preparations-for-russia-ukraine-prisoner-exchange-underway-state-tv-248236">case</a> was politically motivated.

Vyshynsky, a dual Ukrainian and Russian national working for Moscow's RIA Novosti state news agency, was detained in Kiev last year and charged with "high treason" in the interests of Russia.

The 52-year-old was one of 70 prisoners released in a long-awaited exchange between the two countries on Saturday.

"A huge thank you to Russia's political leadership and personally Vladimir Putin," Vsyshynsky said at a press conference in Moscow. &nbsp;

The state news journalist said his case "was a political story and my release is the result of political efforts.

"When I saw the accusations against me by the Ukrainian security services, I knew that I was not going to be judged (in court), that they needed me for an exchange and to exert pressure (on Moscow)," he said.

But he felt "no hate" towards Ukraine, he added.

"I do not have strong feelings towards those people, who were obeying orders. And I know who gave those orders, but I do not hate them either," he said.

Vyshynsky accused former Ukrainian president Petro Poroshenko of ordering his arrest to boost approval ratings. If the politician had not lost Kiev's presidential election in April, he would still be behind bars, he said.

Ukraine's SBU security services accused Vyshynsky of travelling to the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea in 2014 to carry out "subversive" reporting and justify its annexation by Russia.

Kiev also accused him of having supported the Russia-backed separatists fighting against its forces in eastern <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-volodymyr-zelensky-eye-new-talks-after-prisoner-swap-248507">Ukraine.</a>

Putin granted Vyshynsky Russian citizenship by decree in 2015.

Some 13,000 people have been killed in the conflict that broke out in eastern Ukraine shortly after Moscow annexed Crimea in 2014. The international community refuses to recognize the annexation.

Kyrylo Vyshynsky, a Russian-Ukrainian journalist flown to Moscow as part of a landmark prisoner swap with Kiev, on Monday thanked President Vladimir Putin and said his case was politically motivated.

Kyrylo Vyshynsky, a Russian-Ukrainian journalist flown to Moscow as part of a landmark prisoner swap with Kiev, on Monday thanked President Vladimir Putin and said his case was politically motivated. Vyshynsky, a dual Ukrainian and Russian national working for Moscow's RIA Novosti state news agency, was detained in Kiev last year and charged with "high treason" in the interests of Russia. The 52-year-old was one of 70 prisoners released in a long-awaited exchange between the two countries on Saturday. "A huge thank you to Russia's political leadership and personally Vladimir Putin," Vsyshynsky said at a press conference in Moscow. The state news journalist said his case "was a political story and my release is the result of political efforts. "When I saw the accusations against me by the Ukrainian security services, I knew that I was not going to be judged (in court), that they needed me for an exchange and to exert pressure (on Moscow)," he said. But he felt "no hate" towards Ukraine, he added. "I do not have strong feelings towards those people, who were obeying orders. And I know who gave those orders, but I do not hate them either," he said. Vyshynsky accused former Ukrainian president Petro Poroshenko of ordering his arrest to boost approval ratings. If the politician had not lost Kiev's presidential election in April, he would still be behind bars, he said. Ukraine's SBU security services accused Vyshynsky of travelling to the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea in 2014 to carry out "subversive" reporting and justify its annexation by Russia. Kiev also accused him of having supported the Russia-backed separatists fighting against its forces in eastern Ukraine. Putin granted Vyshynsky Russian citizenship by decree in 2015. Some 13,000 people have been killed in the conflict that broke out in eastern Ukraine shortly after Moscow annexed Crimea in 2014. The international community refuses to recognize the annexation.

Russia journalist freed in prisoner swap with Kiev thanks Putin

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India and Russia signed a pact on Friday to develop six nuclear power projects in India, following summit talks between their leaders in New Delhi.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also agreed to cooperate on India's plan for a manned space mission.

Eight pacts, including on cooperation on India's ambitious human space mission project Gaganyaan, were signed.

Official sources said the two countries also signed the $ 5 billion S-400 air defence system deal after talks between the two leaders in Hyderabad House.&nbsp;

Talks with President Putin have given new direction to the bilateral strategic partnership, Modi said in a press statement after the 19th India-Russia annual summit.&nbsp;

India and Russia signed a pact on Friday to develop six nuclear power projects in India, following summit talks between their leaders in New Delhi. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also agreed to cooperate on India's plan for a manned space mission.

India and Russia signed a pact on Friday to develop six nuclear power projects in India, following summit talks between their leaders in New Delhi. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also agreed to cooperate on India's plan for a manned space mission. Eight pacts, including on cooperation on India's ambitious human space mission project Gaganyaan, were signed. Official sources said the two countries also signed the $ 5 billion S-400 air defence system deal after talks between the two leaders in Hyderabad House. Talks with President Putin have given new direction to the bilateral strategic partnership, Modi said in a press statement after the 19th India-Russia annual summit.

India, Russia agree to develop six nuclear power plant projects

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin Friday held the India-Russia annual summit after which eight pacts, including on cooperation on India's ambitious human space mission project Gaganyaan, were signed.

Official sources said the two countries also signed the $ 5 billion <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-russia-sign-s-400-air-defence-system-deal-to-be-delivered-by-2020-169580">S-400 air defence system</a> deal after talks between the two leaders in Hyderabad House.&nbsp;

Talks with President Putin have given new direction to the bilateral strategic partnership, Modi said in a press statement after the 19th India-Russia annual summit.&nbsp;

Pacts were also inked in the fields of space, nuclear energy, railways and space.

A crucial MoU was signed between Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and the Federal Space Agency of Russia ROSCOSMOS' on joint activities in the field of human spaceflight programme Gaganyaan.

India and Russia are committed to cooperating in the fight against terrorism, Modi said.

President Putin said the two countries have agreed to step up cooperation in combating the menace of terrorism and drug trafficking.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin Friday held the India-Russia annual summit after which eight pacts, including on cooperation on India's ambitious human space mission project Gaganyaan, were signed.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin Friday held the India-Russia annual summit after which eight pacts, including on cooperation on India's ambitious human space mission project Gaganyaan, were signed. Official sources said the two countries also signed the $ 5 billion S-400 air defence system deal after talks between the two leaders in Hyderabad House. Talks with President Putin have given new direction to the bilateral strategic partnership, Modi said in a press statement after the 19th India-Russia annual summit. Pacts were also inked in the fields of space, nuclear energy, railways and space. A crucial MoU was signed between Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and the Federal Space Agency of Russia ROSCOSMOS' on joint activities in the field of human spaceflight programme Gaganyaan. India and Russia are committed to cooperating in the fight against terrorism, Modi said. President Putin said the two countries have agreed to step up cooperation in combating the menace of terrorism and drug trafficking.

Eight pacts signed after Modi-Putin summit

The US Justice Department Thursday indicted seven agents of Russia's GRU military intelligence agency as part of a joint crackdown with Western allies on a series of major hacking plots attributed to Moscow.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/four-russians-agents-expelled-on-cyber-attack-dutch-intelligence-169413">Also read: Four Russians agents expelled for cyber attack: Dutch intelligence</a>

The indictments were announced as Dutch security services said they had thwarted a cyber attack on the global chemical weapons watchdog, the OPCW -- expelling four Russian agents -- and after Britain and Australia blamed the GRU for plots that notably targeted the US Democratic Party and global sports bodies.

John Demers, US Assistant Attorney General for National Security, confirmed the seven agents were indicted in connection to the attack on the OPCW, on football's governing body FIFA and the US and global anti-doping agencies, and on the US nuclear energy company Westinghouse among others.

The indictments also include charges of money laundering, using virtual currencies like bitcoin, wire fraud and identify theft.

"Nations like Russia and others that engage in malicious and norm-shattering cyber and influence activities should understand the continuing and steadfast resolve of the United States and its allies to prevent, disrupt and deter such unaccountable conduct," Demers told a news conference.

"The defendants, in this case, should know that justice is very patient, its reach is long and its memory is even longer," he said.

The defendants, all Russian nationals and residents, were named as Aleksei Sergeyevich Morenets, 41, Evgenii Mikhaylovich, Serebriakov, 37, Ivan Sergeyevich Yermakov, 32, Artem Andreyevich Malyshev, 30, and Dmitriy Sergeyevich Badin, 27, and Oleg Mikhaylovich Sotnikov, 46, and Alexey Valerevich Minin, 46.&nbsp;

While the latest case did not arise from Robert Mueller's probe into Russian election meddling, it overlaps with it.

Yermakov, Malyshev, and Badin were among the 12 GRU officers indicted in July this year by Mueller, over alleged interference in the US polls in 2016.

Demers said the operations -- dating back to 2014 -- "involved sophisticated, persistent and unauthorized access into the victims' computer networks for the purpose of stealing private or otherwise sensitive information."

Russian reaction&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly and angrily rejected similar charges, and Russia's foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, reacting to the British and Australian claims, that the allegations had been mixed together "indiscriminately."&nbsp;

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg separately warned Russia to halt its "reckless" behavior.

Canada confirmed Thursday it believes itself to have been targeted by Russian cyber attacks, citing breaches at its center for ethics in sports and at the Montreal-based World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

"The government of Canada assesses with high confidence that the Russian military's intelligence arm, the GRU, was responsible" for these cyber attacks, the foreign ministry said in a statement.

GRU stands for the Main Intelligence Directorate, Russia's military intelligence agency which is one of Moscow's three spy agencies along with the FSB security service and the SVR foreign intelligence agency.

London has also accused two of GRU's officers of poisoning former double-agent Sergei Skripal and his daughter in the British city of Salisbury in March, using a perfume bottle containing a powerful nerve agent.

The US Justice Department Thursday indicted seven agents of Russia's GRU military intelligence agency as part of a joint crackdown with Western allies on a series of major hacking plots attributed to Moscow.

The US Justice Department Thursday indicted seven agents of Russia's GRU military intelligence agency as part of a joint crackdown with Western allies on a series of major hacking plots attributed to Moscow. Also read: Four Russians agents expelled for cyber attack: Dutch intelligence The indictments were announced as Dutch security services said they had thwarted a cyber attack on the global chemical weapons watchdog, the OPCW -- expelling four Russian agents -- and after Britain and Australia blamed the GRU for plots that notably targeted the US Democratic Party and global sports bodies. John Demers, US Assistant Attorney General for National Security, confirmed the seven agents were indicted in connection to the attack on the OPCW, on football's governing body FIFA and the US and global anti-doping agencies, and on the US nuclear energy company Westinghouse among others. The indictments also include charges of money laundering, using virtual currencies like bitcoin, wire fraud and identify theft. "Nations like Russia and others that engage in malicious and norm-shattering cyber and influence activities should understand the continuing and steadfast resolve of the United States and its allies to prevent, disrupt and deter such unaccountable conduct," Demers told a news conference. "The defendants, in this case, should know that justice is very patient, its reach is long and its memory is even longer," he said. The defendants, all Russian nationals and residents, were named as Aleksei Sergeyevich Morenets, 41, Evgenii Mikhaylovich, Serebriakov, 37, Ivan Sergeyevich Yermakov, 32, Artem Andreyevich Malyshev, 30, and Dmitriy Sergeyevich Badin, 27, and Oleg Mikhaylovich Sotnikov, 46, and Alexey Valerevich Minin, 46. While the latest case did not arise from Robert Mueller's probe into Russian election meddling, it overlaps with it. Yermakov, Malyshev, and Badin were among the 12 GRU officers indicted in July this year by Mueller, over alleged interference in the US polls in 2016. Demers said the operations -- dating back to 2014 -- "involved sophisticated, persistent and unauthorized access into the victims' computer networks for the purpose of stealing private or otherwise sensitive information." Russian reaction Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly and angrily rejected similar charges, and Russia's foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, reacting to the British and Australian claims, that the allegations had been mixed together "indiscriminately." NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg separately warned Russia to halt its "reckless" behavior. Canada confirmed Thursday it believes itself to have been targeted by Russian cyber attacks, citing breaches at its center for ethics in sports and at the Montreal-based World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). "The government of Canada assesses with high confidence that the Russian military's intelligence arm, the GRU, was responsible" for these cyber attacks, the foreign ministry said in a statement. GRU stands for the Main Intelligence Directorate, Russia's military intelligence agency which is one of Moscow's three spy agencies along with the FSB security service and the SVR foreign intelligence agency. London has also accused two of GRU's officers of poisoning former double-agent Sergei Skripal and his daughter in the British city of Salisbury in March, using a perfume bottle containing a powerful nerve agent.

US indicts Russian military agents in hacking case

Russian President Vladimir Putin will pay an official visit to India from October 4-5, reported news agency ANI quoting official sources in the ministry of external affairs on Friday.

Putin will be here to participate in the 19th India-Russia annual bilateral summit, the report added quoting the source.&nbsp;

During the visit President Putin will hold official talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and also have a meeting with the President of India Ram Nath Kovind, besides holding other official engagements.

Russia is expected to sign a deal to supply advanced S-400 surface-to-air missile systems to India during Putin's visit.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin will pay an official visit to India from October 4-5, reported news agency ANI quoting official sources in the ministry of external affairs on Friday.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will pay an official visit to India from October 4-5, reported news agency ANI quoting official sources in the ministry of external affairs on Friday. Putin will be here to participate in the 19th India-Russia annual bilateral summit, the report added quoting the source. During the visit President Putin will hold official talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and also have a meeting with the President of India Ram Nath Kovind, besides holding other official engagements. Russia is expected to sign a deal to supply advanced S-400 surface-to-air missile systems to India during Putin's visit.

Russian President Vladimir Putin to visit India from October 4-5

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday called for increasing the momentum of trade and investment among the members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

Putin's official statement, released after the SCO summit came to an end, said that the SCO members were increasingly taking such steps to facilitate simplification of trade and economic cooperation.

"We are simplifying the mutual availability of goods and services, improving customs regulations, eliminating unnecessary administrative barriers, and implementing joint projects in energy, transport and agriculture," Putin said.

He then mentioned the first-ever meeting between the heads of the SCO member states, and a joint forum on small business practiced in the SCO and BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) to be held in Russia.

Putin further mentioned that the term of current Secretary-General of the SCO, Rashid Alimov, and Director of the Executive Committee of the RATS Yevgeny Sysoyev would end in 2019.

Another decision taken in the 2018 SCO summit was that Tajikistan would take over the annual presidency of the SCO and would look after the preparations for next year`s summit.&nbsp

'We are simplifying the mutual availability of goods and services, improving customs regulations, eliminating unnecessary administrative barriers, and implementing joint projects in energy, transport and agriculture,'Putin said

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday called for increasing the momentum of trade and investment among the members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Putin's official statement, released after the SCO summit came to an end, said that the SCO members were increasingly taking such steps to facilitate simplification of trade and economic cooperation. "We are simplifying the mutual availability of goods and services, improving customs regulations, eliminating unnecessary administrative barriers, and implementing joint projects in energy, transport and agriculture," Putin said. He then mentioned the first-ever meeting between the heads of the SCO member states, and a joint forum on small business practiced in the SCO and BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) to be held in Russia. Putin further mentioned that the term of current Secretary-General of the SCO, Rashid Alimov, and Director of the Executive Committee of the RATS Yevgeny Sysoyev would end in 2019. Another decision taken in the 2018 SCO summit was that Tajikistan would take over the annual presidency of the SCO and would look after the preparations for next year`s summit.

Putin calls for boosting trade ties among SCO members

After holding informal talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Prime Minister Modi is all set to visit Russia to attend an informal summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The summit will be held in Sochi on May 21.

The informal summit is being organised to keep the tradition of regular consultations between Indian and Russia at the highest level.

The talks further aim at strengthening Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. Both leaders will also discuss their respective national developmental priorities and bilateral matters.

The two leaders&nbsp;are also expected to exchange views on international matters in a broad and long-term perspective.

Prime Minister Modi held a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Wuhan, last month.&nbsp;

The "informal summit" between the two leaders aimed at diffusing tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

After the meeting, the militaries of the two nation&nbsp;are reportedly setting up a "hotline" which was regarded as a major Confidence Building Measure(CBM) between the two sides, a Chinese media stated.

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The informal Summit in Russia's Sochi between PM Modi and President Putin is in keeping with the tradition of regular consultations between India and Russia at the highest levels.
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The summit will be held in Sochi on May 21

After holding informal talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Prime Minister Modi is all set to visit Russia to attend an informal summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The summit will be held in Sochi on May 21. The informal summit is being organised to keep the tradition of regular consultations between Indian and Russia at the highest level. The talks further aim at strengthening Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. Both leaders will also discuss their respective national developmental priorities and bilateral matters. The two leaders are also expected to exchange views on international matters in a broad and long-term perspective. Prime Minister Modi held a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Wuhan, last month. The "informal summit" between the two leaders aimed at diffusing tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). After the meeting, the militaries of the two nation are reportedly setting up a "hotline" which was regarded as a major Confidence Building Measure(CBM) between the two sides, a Chinese media stated. The informal Summit in Russia's Sochi between PM Modi and President Putin is in keeping with the tradition of regular consultations between India and Russia at the highest levels. — ANI (@ANI) May 14, 2018 ×

After China, PM Modi to hold informal summit in Russia with President Vladimir Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/enough-evidence-to-convict-syrias-assad-of-war-crimes-un-commission-18940">Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad for talks </a>at which the two men agreed that the focus in the Syrian conflict was now switching from military operations to the search for a political solution.

In comments that were released by the Kremlin early on Tuesday, Putin told the Syrian leader he wanted to meet him in advance of a gathering, planned for this week in Russia, with the leaders of Turkey and Iran -- two other powers heavily involved in the conflict in Syria.

Putin also said he would follow up his meeting with Assad with telephone calls to US&nbsp;President Donald Trump, and to Middle Eastern leaders including the Emir of Qatar.

&quot;We still have a long way to go before we achieve a complete victory over terrorists. But as far as our joint work in fighting terrorism on the territory of Syria is concerned, this military operation is indeed wrapping up.&quot;

&quot;I think that now the most important thing, of course, is to move on the political questions, and I note with satisfaction your readiness to work with all those who want peace and a solution (to the conflict),&quot; Putin said.

According to the Kremlin, the meeting happened on Monday in the Russian Black resort of Sochi, where Putin has a residence, but details were not released until Tuesday morning.

Assad, wearing a dark suit and sitting across a small coffee table from Putin, told the Russian leader: &quot;At this stage, especially after we achieved victory over terrorists, it is in our interests to move forward with the political process.&quot;

&quot;And we believe that the situation we now have on the ground and in the political sense permits us to expect progress in the political process. We count on the support of Russia to ensure the non-interference of outside players in the political process,&quot; said Assad, speaking through an interpreter.

Putin and Assad last met on Oct. 20, 2015 in Moscow, a few weeks after Moscow launched a military operation in Syria that turned the tide of the conflict in Assad&#39;s favour

Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad for talks at which the two men agreed that the focus in the Syrian conflict was now switching from military operations to the search for a political solution

Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad for talks at which the two men agreed that the focus in the Syrian conflict was now switching from military operations to the search for a political solution. In comments that were released by the Kremlin early on Tuesday, Putin told the Syrian leader he wanted to meet him in advance of a gathering, planned for this week in Russia, with the leaders of Turkey and Iran -- two other powers heavily involved in the conflict in Syria. Putin also said he would follow up his meeting with Assad with telephone calls to US President Donald Trump, and to Middle Eastern leaders including the Emir of Qatar. "We still have a long way to go before we achieve a complete victory over terrorists. But as far as our joint work in fighting terrorism on the territory of Syria is concerned, this military operation is indeed wrapping up." "I think that now the most important thing, of course, is to move on the political questions, and I note with satisfaction your readiness to work with all those who want peace and a solution (to the conflict)," Putin said. According to the Kremlin, the meeting happened on Monday in the Russian Black resort of Sochi, where Putin has a residence, but details were not released until Tuesday morning. Assad, wearing a dark suit and sitting across a small coffee table from Putin, told the Russian leader: "At this stage, especially after we achieved victory over terrorists, it is in our interests to move forward with the political process." "And we believe that the situation we now have on the ground and in the political sense permits us to expect progress in the political process. We count on the support of Russia to ensure the non-interference of outside players in the political process," said Assad, speaking through an interpreter. Putin and Assad last met on Oct. 20, 2015 in Moscow, a few weeks after Moscow launched a military operation in Syria that turned the tide of the conflict in Assad's favour

Putin, Assad meet to discuss Syria conflict

Russia President Vladimir Putin on Monday called the killing of Russia`s ambassador in Turkey a &quot;provocation&quot; aimed at sabotaging warming ties between Moscow and Ankara and efforts to resolve the conflict in Syria.&nbsp;

&quot;The crime that was committed is without doubt a provocation aimed at disrupting the normalisation of Russian-Turkish relations and disrupting the peace process in Syria that is being actively advanced by Russia, Turkey and Iran,&quot; Putin said.

&quot;There can be only one answer to this -- stepping up the fight against terrorism, and the bandits will feel this,&quot; he said at a meeting with Russia&#39;s foreign minister and the heads of the overseas and domestic intelligence agencies.&nbsp;

The Kremlin strongman said that Moscow was sending investigators to Ankara to probe the killing after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan gave the green light in a phone call.

&quot;We have to know who directed the hand of the killer,&quot; Putin said.

Turkey and Russia saw relations plunge last year when a Turkish jet shot down a Russian war plane over Syria.

The two countries stand on opposite sides of the Syria conflict with Ankara backing rebels trying to topple Moscow ally President Bashar al-Assad.

But the two leaders managed to mend ties this year.&nbsp;

(AFP) 
&nbsp;

The Russia President said 'We have to know who directed the hand of the killer'

Russia President Vladimir Putin on Monday called the killing of Russia`s ambassador in Turkey a "provocation" aimed at sabotaging warming ties between Moscow and Ankara and efforts to resolve the conflict in Syria. "The crime that was committed is without doubt a provocation aimed at disrupting the normalisation of Russian-Turkish relations and disrupting the peace process in Syria that is being actively advanced by Russia, Turkey and Iran," Putin said. "There can be only one answer to this -- stepping up the fight against terrorism, and the bandits will feel this," he said at a meeting with Russia's foreign minister and the heads of the overseas and domestic intelligence agencies. The Kremlin strongman said that Moscow was sending investigators to Ankara to probe the killing after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan gave the green light in a phone call. "We have to know who directed the hand of the killer," Putin said. Turkey and Russia saw relations plunge last year when a Turkish jet shot down a Russian war plane over Syria. The two countries stand on opposite sides of the Syria conflict with Ankara backing rebels trying to topple Moscow ally President Bashar al-Assad. But the two leaders managed to mend ties this year. (AFP)

Putin: Will send investigators to Ankara to probe killing

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday visited annexed Crimea to boost security measures there, just days after accusing Kiev of attempting an armed incursion into the peninsula. 
 
Putin chaired a meeting of his powerful security council in Crimea as he made his fifth visit to the strategic Black Sea peninsula since annexing it from Ukraine in March 2014. 
 
&quot;We have gathered because of the well-known incident, after stopping an attempt by Ukrainian army sabotage groups to stage an incursion into Crimean territory,&quot; he said during the meeting whose aim was to &quot;discuss and implement additional security measures.&quot; 
 
Last week, Putin lashed out at Kiev over an incident on the frontier between Crimea and Ukraine, accusing it of &quot;practising terror&quot; and sending a group of saboteurs into Crimea ahead of the elections. 
 
Two Russian officers were killed in the incident, in which Ukraine denied any involvement. 
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<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=&quot;We have gathered because of the well-known incident, after stopping an attempt by Ukrainian army sabotage groups to stage an incursion into Crimean territory&quot;" target="_blank">&nbsp;</a></div>
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Putin, however, continued his accusations Friday, saying &quot;our partners in Kiev have decided to exacerbate the situation&quot; because they did not want to uphold their end of the European-brokered truce agreement signed in Belarussian capital Minsk last year. 
 
Ukraine&#39;s President Petro Poroshenko on Thursday said he considered the likelihood of an escalation &quot;high&quot; and could not rule out a &quot;full-scale Russian invasion along all fronts.&quot; 
 
Kiev said Thursday heavy rebel shelling killed three soldiers in its east, where the government has been battling pro-Russian separatists since 2014. 
 
Western leaders have expressed alarm over the possibility of an escalation. 
 
(AFP)&nbsp;

Last week, Putin lashed out at Kiev over an incident on the frontier between Crimea and Ukraine, accusing it of 'practising terror'

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday visited annexed Crimea to boost security measures there, just days after accusing Kiev of attempting an armed incursion into the peninsula. Putin chaired a meeting of his powerful security council in Crimea as he made his fifth visit to the strategic Black Sea peninsula since annexing it from Ukraine in March 2014. "We have gathered because of the well-known incident, after stopping an attempt by Ukrainian army sabotage groups to stage an incursion into Crimean territory," he said during the meeting whose aim was to "discuss and implement additional security measures." Last week, Putin lashed out at Kiev over an incident on the frontier between Crimea and Ukraine, accusing it of "practising terror" and sending a group of saboteurs into Crimea ahead of the elections. Two Russian officers were killed in the incident, in which Ukraine denied any involvement. "We have gathered because of the well-known incident, after stopping an attempt by Ukrainian army sabotage groups to stage an incursion into Crimean territory" Putin, however, continued his accusations Friday, saying "our partners in Kiev have decided to exacerbate the situation" because they did not want to uphold their end of the European-brokered truce agreement signed in Belarussian capital Minsk last year. Ukraine's President Petro Poroshenko on Thursday said he considered the likelihood of an escalation "high" and could not rule out a "full-scale Russian invasion along all fronts." Kiev said Thursday heavy rebel shelling killed three soldiers in its east, where the government has been battling pro-Russian separatists since 2014. Western leaders have expressed alarm over the possibility of an escalation. (AFP)

Putin visits Crimea to boost security measures days after Ukraine incursion claim

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