Ukraine's Foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba has urged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to reach out to Russian President Vladimir Putin to stop the ongoing invasion of his country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Pointing to the "special relations" between India and Russia, Ukraine foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba in response to a WION query, said, "All countries, who enjoy special relations with Russia, like India, can appeal to Putin. We call on PM Modi to continue reaching out to Russian President to explain him that this invasion is against the interests of all." &nbsp;

Modi and Putin have spoken twice since Russia has invaded Ukraine in February 24. During his first conversation on February 24, PM appealed for cessation of violence and return to the path of diplomatic negotiations. &nbsp;&nbsp;

While safety of Indian nationals has been on the top of the agenda of the talks, Modi has, during the talks, emphasized on "honest and sincere dialogue", according to the readout by the Indian side. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sigh-of-relief-183-indian-citizens-reach-delhi-in-special-flight-under-operation-ganga-459431" hreflang="en">Sigh of relief: 183 Indian citizens reach Delhi in special flight</a>

The Ukraine Foreign minister also pointed that invasion has impacted global agriculture market, including exports to India. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He explained, "We have to take into account that India is one of the largest consumers of Ukrainian agriculture products and if this war continues, it will be difficult for us to seed new harvest and then to collect it. In terms of global food security and for Indian too, it is best interest to stop this invasion." &nbsp;

India imports huge quantity of sunflower oil from the eastern European country, which is expected to take a beating amid the ongoing escalations. &nbsp;

He asked, "Ordinary Indians can put pressure on the Russian embassy in India to ask them to stop the invasion. Ukraine does not need this war....Putin does not recognise out right to exist but every country in the world can help us by demanding Putin to stop the attack." &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/weekend-special-who-is-a-russian-oligarch-heres-what-you-need-to-know-459198" hreflang="en">Weekend Special: Who is a Russian oligarch? Here's what you need to know</a>

For India, the biggest worry remains the around more than 500 Indian students stranded in Sumy. Asked about it, during the virtual presser, he said, "To facilitate the withdrawal of the foreign students from Kharkiv and Sumy, Ukraine arranged some trains, we also set up a hotline that foreign students can address. We work closely with relevant embassies and coordinate our efforts with them." &nbsp;

India has launched Operation Ganga to evacuate its nationals from the war-torn country, who have crossed over to neighbouring countries like Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania and Moldova. Under the evacuation operation, so far 63 flights have brought over 13,300 Indians back to India. &nbsp;

He called on the, "Governments of India, China and Nigeria, whose students are in Sumy and Kharkiv" to "the stop fire" by reaching out to Moscow. New Delhi has been in touch with Russia and Ukraine and told them to work on local ceasefire for early evacuation of its nationals. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Dismissing Russian claims of students being held hostage, he said, "They are trying to win the sympathy of the countries I mentioned by accusing Ukraine of keeping foreign students as hostages and violating their rights and decimating them. But I would like to say one thing that for 30 years, Ukraine was home for your students and it continues to be, even under fire from Russia". &nbsp;&nbsp;

Putin had first claimed that Indian students were held hostage by Ukraine, something that has been dismissed by India.

Ukraine's Foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba has urged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to reach out to Russian President Vladimir Putin to stop the ongoing invasion of his country.

Ukraine's Foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba has urged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to reach out to Russian President Vladimir Putin to stop the ongoing invasion of his country. Pointing to the "special relations" between India and Russia, Ukraine foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba in response to a WION query, said, "All countries, who enjoy special relations with Russia, like India, can appeal to Putin. We call on PM Modi to continue reaching out to Russian President to explain him that this invasion is against the interests of all." Modi and Putin have spoken twice since Russia has invaded Ukraine in February 24. During his first conversation on February 24, PM appealed for cessation of violence and return to the path of diplomatic negotiations. While safety of Indian nationals has been on the top of the agenda of the talks, Modi has, during the talks, emphasized on "honest and sincere dialogue", according to the readout by the Indian side. Also Read | Sigh of relief: 183 Indian citizens reach Delhi in special flight The Ukraine Foreign minister also pointed that invasion has impacted global agriculture market, including exports to India. He explained, "We have to take into account that India is one of the largest consumers of Ukrainian agriculture products and if this war continues, it will be difficult for us to seed new harvest and then to collect it. In terms of global food security and for Indian too, it is best interest to stop this invasion." India imports huge quantity of sunflower oil from the eastern European country, which is expected to take a beating amid the ongoing escalations. He asked, "Ordinary Indians can put pressure on the Russian embassy in India to ask them to stop the invasion. Ukraine does not need this war....Putin does not recognise out right to exist but every country in the world can help us by demanding Putin to stop the attack." Also Read | Weekend Special: Who is a Russian oligarch? Here's what you need to know For India, the biggest worry remains the around more than 500 Indian students stranded in Sumy. Asked about it, during the virtual presser, he said, "To facilitate the withdrawal of the foreign students from Kharkiv and Sumy, Ukraine arranged some trains, we also set up a hotline that foreign students can address. We work closely with relevant embassies and coordinate our efforts with them." India has launched Operation Ganga to evacuate its nationals from the war-torn country, who have crossed over to neighbouring countries like Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania and Moldova. Under the evacuation operation, so far 63 flights have brought over 13,300 Indians back to India. He called on the, "Governments of India, China and Nigeria, whose students are in Sumy and Kharkiv" to "the stop fire" by reaching out to Moscow. New Delhi has been in touch with Russia and Ukraine and told them to work on local ceasefire for early evacuation of its nationals. Dismissing Russian claims of students being held hostage, he said, "They are trying to win the sympathy of the countries I mentioned by accusing Ukraine of keeping foreign students as hostages and violating their rights and decimating them. But I would like to say one thing that for 30 years, Ukraine was home for your students and it continues to be, even under fire from Russia". Putin had first claimed that Indian students were held hostage by Ukraine, something that has been dismissed by India.

Ukraine FM urges Indian PM Narendra Modi to reach out to Russian President Vladimir Putin to stop invasion

Many are trying to understand the motive of Russian President Vladimir Putin as more troops enter Ukrainian cities. What are Putin’s next moves and what is his end goal?

What will be Vladimir Putin’s next move?

Russian President Vladimir Putin seems to have become the target of rage of several people around the world. &nbsp;

This seems to have happened as the president has attacked Ukraine with full might recently. &nbsp;

In the recent development, a US senator from South Carolina, Lindsey Graham, has called on citizens of Russia to rise up and assassinate Putin to bring an end to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-humanitarian-relief-biden-administration-offers-temporary-protected-status-to-ukrainians-in-us-458809">Biden admin offers 'Temporary Protected Status' to Ukrainians in US</a>

“Is there a Brutus in Russia? &nbsp;Is there a more successful Colonel Stauffenberg in the Russian military? &nbsp;The only way this ends is for somebody in Russia to take this guy out. You would be doing your country - and the world - a great service,” said Graham, a Republican, in a tweet. &nbsp;

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Is there a Brutus in Russia? Is there a more successful Colonel Stauffenberg in the Russian military? 
 
The only way this ends is for somebody in Russia to take this guy out. 
 
You would be doing your country - and the world - a great service.
— Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) <a href="https://twitter.com/LindseyGrahamSC/status/1499574209567199235?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"Easy to say, hard to do. Unless you want to live in darkness for the rest of your life, be isolated from the rest of the world in abject poverty, and live in darkness, you need to step up to the plate," Graham added. &nbsp;

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The only people who can fix this are the Russian people. 
 
Easy to say, hard to do. 
 
Unless you want to live in darkness for the rest of your life, be isolated from the rest of the world in abject poverty, and live in darkness you need to step up to the plate.
— Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) <a href="https://twitter.com/LindseyGrahamSC/status/1499575352426958848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Some of Graham's Republican colleagues, including Reps Matt Gaetz of Florida and Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, have rebuked the senator's call for Putin's killing. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-sniper-killed-russias-top-general-say-reports-458776" hreflang="en">Ukrainian sniper killed Russia's top general, say reports</a>

Not just this, a Russian businessman, who is based in California, has offered $1 million for the arrest of Putin for war crimes committed during Ukraine conflict. &nbsp;

On social media, Alex Konanykhin on Tuesday, said, “I promise to pay $1,000,000 to the officer(s) who, complying with their constitutional duty, arrest(s) Putin as a war criminal under Russian and international laws.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin seems to have become the target of rage of several people around the world. This seems to have happened as the president has attacked Ukraine with full might recently.

Russian President Vladimir Putin seems to have become the target of rage of several people around the world. This seems to have happened as the president has attacked Ukraine with full might recently. In the recent development, a US senator from South Carolina, Lindsey Graham, has called on citizens of Russia to rise up and assassinate Putin to bring an end to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Also Read: Biden admin offers 'Temporary Protected Status' to Ukrainians in US “Is there a Brutus in Russia? Is there a more successful Colonel Stauffenberg in the Russian military? The only way this ends is for somebody in Russia to take this guy out. You would be doing your country - and the world - a great service,” said Graham, a Republican, in a tweet. Is there a Brutus in Russia? Is there a more successful Colonel Stauffenberg in the Russian military? The only way this ends is for somebody in Russia to take this guy out. You would be doing your country - and the world - a great service. — Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) March 4, 2022 × "Easy to say, hard to do. Unless you want to live in darkness for the rest of your life, be isolated from the rest of the world in abject poverty, and live in darkness, you need to step up to the plate," Graham added. The only people who can fix this are the Russian people. Easy to say, hard to do. Unless you want to live in darkness for the rest of your life, be isolated from the rest of the world in abject poverty, and live in darkness you need to step up to the plate. — Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) March 4, 2022 × Some of Graham's Republican colleagues, including Reps Matt Gaetz of Florida and Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, have rebuked the senator's call for Putin's killing. Also Read: Ukrainian sniper killed Russia's top general, say reports Not just this, a Russian businessman, who is based in California, has offered $1 million for the arrest of Putin for war crimes committed during Ukraine conflict. On social media, Alex Konanykhin on Tuesday, said, “I promise to pay $1,000,000 to the officer(s) who, complying with their constitutional duty, arrest(s) Putin as a war criminal under Russian and international laws.” (With inputs from agencies)

To end Ukraine’s invasion, US senator calls for Russian President Vladimir Putin's assassination

Finally, the West has intensified efforts to halt Russian attack on Ukraine. The US government and European countries have imposed sanctions on Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Friday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Although the unprecedented move of sanctions against a head of state is quite rare, it seems to be the need of the hour. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a statement late on Friday, the Treasury Department while announcing the sanctions, said, "President Putin and Minister Lavrov are directly responsible for Russia’s unprovoked and unlawful further invasion of Ukraine, a democratic sovereign state." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swift-has-the-power-to-put-russia-on-back-foot-but-what-is-it-actually-456396" hreflang="en">‘SWIFT’ has the power to put Russia on back foot. But what is it actually?</a>

It said that sanctions against a head of state were "exceedingly rare". The move puts Putin on a small list, which includes the leaders of Syria, North Korea and Belarus. &nbsp;&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden decided to target Putin, Lavrov and other officials after a conversation over phone with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen earlier on Friday, White House spokesperson Jen Psaki told reporters. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier on Friday, EU states and UK also agreed to freeze any European assets of Putin and Lavrov. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-why-is-chernobyl-nuclear-power-plant-important-456329" hreflang="en">Explainer: Why is Chernobyl nuclear power plant important?</a>

The US government has also sanctioned two other senior Russian officials, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov, for attack on Ukraine, the Treasury Department said. &nbsp;

On Twitter, Psaki said that the Treasury Department would also impose sanctions on the Russian Direct Investment Fund. She described it as a "state owned financial entity that functions as a sovereign wealth fund, which is supposed to attract capital into the Russian economy in high-growth sectors." &nbsp;

The action against the Russian Direct Investment Fund would come in the next few days, a Treasury spokesperson said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Finally, the West has intensified efforts to halt Russian attack on Ukraine. The US government and European countries have imposed sanctions on Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Friday.

Finally, the West has intensified efforts to halt Russian attack on Ukraine. The US government and European countries have imposed sanctions on Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Friday. Although the unprecedented move of sanctions against a head of state is quite rare, it seems to be the need of the hour. In a statement late on Friday, the Treasury Department while announcing the sanctions, said, "President Putin and Minister Lavrov are directly responsible for Russia’s unprovoked and unlawful further invasion of Ukraine, a democratic sovereign state." Also Read: ‘SWIFT’ has the power to put Russia on back foot. But what is it actually? It said that sanctions against a head of state were "exceedingly rare". The move puts Putin on a small list, which includes the leaders of Syria, North Korea and Belarus. US President Joe Biden decided to target Putin, Lavrov and other officials after a conversation over phone with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen earlier on Friday, White House spokesperson Jen Psaki told reporters. Earlier on Friday, EU states and UK also agreed to freeze any European assets of Putin and Lavrov. Also Read | Explainer: Why is Chernobyl nuclear power plant important? The US government has also sanctioned two other senior Russian officials, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov, for attack on Ukraine, the Treasury Department said. On Twitter, Psaki said that the Treasury Department would also impose sanctions on the Russian Direct Investment Fund. She described it as a "state owned financial entity that functions as a sovereign wealth fund, which is supposed to attract capital into the Russian economy in high-growth sectors." The action against the Russian Direct Investment Fund would come in the next few days, a Treasury spokesperson said. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine conflict: US, EU, UK sanction Russian President Vladimir Putin, top officials

India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla termed Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to New Delhi as short but "highly productive" after the Russian leader met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (December 6).

India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla termed Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to New Delhi as short but "highly productive" after the Russian leader met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (December 6). PM Modi hosted the Russian President at Hyderabad House in the Indian capital Delhi for the 21st annual India-Russia Summit, which is the first in-person meeting between them since they met on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in 2019 in Brasilia. ALSO READ | Gift from Gujarat: PM Narendra Modi gives exquisite Agate Bowls to Russian President Vladimir Putin The substantive visit has been crucial for both the nations as 28 agreements were concluded between India and Russia and the leaders discussed a range of issues such as defence, military cooperation, trade, investment, environment, cross-border terrorism, etc. During the post-summit press conference, the foreign secretary said that the fact that President Putin decided to visit India for the annual summit is an indication of the importance he attaches to the bilateral relationship and his personal rapport with PM Modi. Harsh Vardhan Shringla listed the key issues that have been discussed during the summit: COVID-19 vaccine certification As PM Modi mentioned that the strategic partnership between the two nations is not impacted by the challenges posed by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. During the summit, both leaders discussed the need for mutual recognition of vaccine certification to enable easier travel between India and Russia. ALSO READ | We perceive India as a great power and trusted friend, says President Putin to PM Modi Fighting cross-border terrorism Shringla mentioned that both sides stressed the need to fight cross-border terrorism. A wide range of talks took place and Lashkar-e-Taiba was discussed specifically. Trade and investment Shringla said that on trade and investment, some specific plans have been discussed, including long-term corporation in the areas of inland waterways, fertilizers, coking coals, steel, skilled manpower. Coking coals emerged as an important area of the corporation. IN PICS | Modi-Putin summit: India, Russia hail strategic partnership S 400 deal and CAATSA sanctions Russia has begun deliveries of its long-range S-400 ground-to-air missile defence system — which has prompted threats of US sanctions. "Supplies have begun this month and will continue to happen," Shringla said, adding that with regard to the CAATSA issue didn't come up during the talks. An agreement was reached on the programme of the military-technical cooperation from 2021-2031. This 10-year defence cooperation programme outlines the ongoing defence cooperation and future possible cooperation between the two countries such as agreements which have been signed since 1994. Afghanistan issue While raising the issue of terrorism, Putin said, "We're concerned about everything that has to do with terrorism. Fight against terrorism is also a fight against drug trafficking and organised crime." Speaking in the same context, Putin said that Russia is concerned about the developments of the situation in Afghanistan. Shringla mentioned that the issue of the legitimacy of the Taliban government was not discussed. Cultural cooperation Shringla said that both nations are looking forward to intensifying cultural cooperation. He said, "There're apparently 15 million Buddhists in Russia. This community is keen on looking at India for pilgrimage and other areas of interest. So the cultural cooperation is also important for both countries." Education During the summit, an agreement was reached for academic collaboration between the University of Delhi and Skoltech University, Moscow to promote capacity building and expertise in scientific areas and is aimed at developing programs and exchanges for national technological development. Space research An agreement has been reached between both nations on technology protection due to cooperation in the field of research and use of outer space for peaceful purposes and the building and operation of launch vehicles and ground-based space infrastructure. Banking and cyber attacks A cooperation agreement has been reached between the Reserve Bank of India and the Bank of Russia in the field of responding to cyber attacks. ×

Key takeaways of Modi-Putin summit: Anti-terror fight, COVID-19, S-400 deal

In a tit-for-tat move, Russia has announced the suspension of the NATO liaison mission. The announcement comes after NATO expelled eight members of the Russian mission to the military alliance for alleged spying.

Russia has announced the suspension of the NATO liaison mission

Dozens of people in Vladimir Putin's entourage have tested positive for the coronavirus , the Russian leader said on Thursday, as his country struggles with high infection rates and a vaccine-sceptic population.

Earlier this week, 68-year-old Putin cancelled all in-person events and said he was self-isolating after announcing an outbreak in the Kremlin.

"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 had been due to attend the meeting of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO) in Tajikistan's capital Dushanbe in person, but said Tuesday he would instead join remotely.

Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Thursday told reporters that the outbreak was mainly among members of Putin's security detail.

He added that "practically everybody" who works with Putin is vaccinated.

While it remains unclear how long Putin will be in quarantine, Peskov said he will be self-isolating for "at least" another week.

News of the extent of the outbreak at the Kremlin comes a day before parliamentary elections open Friday in Russia.

They are staggered over three days to limit the spread of the virus.

Authorities have gone to great lengths to protect Putin— who said he has been vaccinated with Russia's homegrown Sputnik V jab— since the start of the pandemic.

Foreign leaders, journalists and officials have all had to self-isolate before meeting the longtime Russian leader.

Putin this week met with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and athletes returning from the Tokyo Paralympic Games, just before the Kremlin said he was self-isolating.

Highest European death toll

Russia has the fifth-highest number of recorded COVID cases, according to an AFP tally, and has struggled to rein in infections despite easy access to vaccines.

According to the latest figures, the country has recorded more than seven million cases and 195,835 deaths, the highest death toll in Europe.

Infections have been falling in recent days after a spike this summer, but health officials still reported 19,594 new cases and 794 new deaths on Thursday.

Authorities have struggled with a vaccine-sceptic population, with independent polls showing that a majority of Russians do not plan to be inoculated.

As of Thursday, about 40.2 million of Russia's 146 million people had been fully vaccinated, according to the Gogov website, which tallies Covid data from the regions.

Russia has several homegrown vaccines freely available to the public, but does not distribute any Western-made jabs.

Sputnik V has been approved in dozens of countries, including European nations, but is still pending approval from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Western regulators.

Moscow, the epicentre of Russia's outbreak, and a host of regions have introduced mandatory vaccination measures to speed up the inoculation drive, and Putin has repeatedly called on Russians to get vaccinated.

The Kremlin initially set a goal of fully inoculating 60 percent of Russia's population by September, but later dropped that target even though free jabs have been available since early December.

Russian authorities have been accused of vastly downplaying the effects of the pandemic and, after a tight first lockdown in 2020, have refrained from introducing new restrictive measures.

Dozens of people in Vladimir Putin's entourage have tested positive for the coronavirus , the Russian leader said on Thursday, as his country struggles with high infection rates and a vaccine-sceptic population.

Dozens of people in Vladimir Putin's entourage have tested positive for the coronavirus , the Russian leader said on Thursday, as his country struggles with high infection rates and a vaccine-sceptic population. Earlier this week, 68-year-old Putin cancelled all in-person events and said he was self-isolating after announcing an outbreak in the Kremlin. "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 had been due to attend the meeting of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO) in Tajikistan's capital Dushanbe in person, but said Tuesday he would instead join remotely. Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Thursday told reporters that the outbreak was mainly among members of Putin's security detail. He added that "practically everybody" who works with Putin is vaccinated. While it remains unclear how long Putin will be in quarantine, Peskov said he will be self-isolating for "at least" another week. News of the extent of the outbreak at the Kremlin comes a day before parliamentary elections open Friday in Russia. They are staggered over three days to limit the spread of the virus. Authorities have gone to great lengths to protect Putin— who said he has been vaccinated with Russia's homegrown Sputnik V jab— since the start of the pandemic. Foreign leaders, journalists and officials have all had to self-isolate before meeting the longtime Russian leader. Putin this week met with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and athletes returning from the Tokyo Paralympic Games, just before the Kremlin said he was self-isolating. Highest European death toll Russia has the fifth-highest number of recorded COVID cases, according to an AFP tally, and has struggled to rein in infections despite easy access to vaccines. According to the latest figures, the country has recorded more than seven million cases and 195,835 deaths, the highest death toll in Europe. Infections have been falling in recent days after a spike this summer, but health officials still reported 19,594 new cases and 794 new deaths on Thursday. Authorities have struggled with a vaccine-sceptic population, with independent polls showing that a majority of Russians do not plan to be inoculated. As of Thursday, about 40.2 million of Russia's 146 million people had been fully vaccinated, according to the Gogov website, which tallies Covid data from the regions. Russia has several homegrown vaccines freely available to the public, but does not distribute any Western-made jabs. Sputnik V has been approved in dozens of countries, including European nations, but is still pending approval from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Western regulators. Moscow, the epicentre of Russia's outbreak, and a host of regions have introduced mandatory vaccination measures to speed up the inoculation drive, and Putin has repeatedly called on Russians to get vaccinated. The Kremlin initially set a goal of fully inoculating 60 percent of Russia's population by September, but later dropped that target even though free jabs have been available since early December. Russian authorities have been accused of vastly downplaying the effects of the pandemic and, after a tight first lockdown in 2020, have refrained from introducing new restrictive measures.

Russian president Vladimir Putin says 'several dozen people' within the Kremlin inner circle have COVID-19 

US President Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin face off on Wednesday in their first meeting since Biden took office with wide disagreements likely and expectations low for any breakthroughs.

Geneva gears up for Putin-Biden summit

The United States President Joe Biden believes that his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin is a "killer" and would "pay a price" for interfering in US elections.

US President Biden talks about Putin's "interference" in US elections | Vladimir Putin

Vladimir Putin wants the internet bound by what he describes Russia as moral rules. Russian President is exerted that internet is penetrated in all spare of our life and therefore it was also Logist obey a legal rule but also the moral rules of the society otherwise society will collapse from within.

Russia: Vladimir Putin wants the internet bound by moral rules

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday signed legislation that will grant former presidents lifetime immunity once they leave office. The former presidents will also be exempt from questioning from police or investigators as well as searches or arrests. The legislation was part of constitutional amendments that were approved this summer in a nationwide vote that allow Putin, 68, to remain president until 2036.

Before this bill, former presidents were immune from prosecution only for crimes committed while in office.

Now a former president can still be stripped of immunity if accused of treason or other grave crimes and the charges are confirmed by the Supreme and Constitutional courts.

But the legislation Putin signed on Tuesday will additionally grant former presidents a lifetime seat in the Federation Council or senate, a position that assures immunity from prosecution upon leaving the presidency.&nbsp;

Last month the pending bills sparked rumours that the longtime Russian leader is planning to step down because of poor health -- a claim the Kremlin denied.

On Tuesday the lower house State Duma passed legislation making information about employees of Russia's judicial system, law enforcement and regulatory and military bodies confidential.

The bill now requires Putin's signature to become law, a step that is considered a formality.

It comes a day after opposition figure Alexei Navalny said he telephoned an alleged security agent and tricked him into admitting the Federal Security Service (FSB) tried to kill him in August by poisoning.

Navalny said he had gained access to the security agent's phone number from leaked logs and travel records. 
&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday signed legislation that will grant former presidents lifetime immunity once they leave office. The former presidents will also be exempt from questioning from police or investigators as well as searches or arrests.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday signed legislation that will grant former presidents lifetime immunity once they leave office. The former presidents will also be exempt from questioning from police or investigators as well as searches or arrests. The legislation was part of constitutional amendments that were approved this summer in a nationwide vote that allow Putin, 68, to remain president until 2036. Before this bill, former presidents were immune from prosecution only for crimes committed while in office. Now a former president can still be stripped of immunity if accused of treason or other grave crimes and the charges are confirmed by the Supreme and Constitutional courts. But the legislation Putin signed on Tuesday will additionally grant former presidents a lifetime seat in the Federation Council or senate, a position that assures immunity from prosecution upon leaving the presidency. Last month the pending bills sparked rumours that the longtime Russian leader is planning to step down because of poor health -- a claim the Kremlin denied. On Tuesday the lower house State Duma passed legislation making information about employees of Russia's judicial system, law enforcement and regulatory and military bodies confidential. The bill now requires Putin's signature to become law, a step that is considered a formality. It comes a day after opposition figure Alexei Navalny said he telephoned an alleged security agent and tricked him into admitting the Federal Security Service (FSB) tried to kill him in August by poisoning. Navalny said he had gained access to the security agent's phone number from leaked logs and travel records.

Putin signs bill awarding former presidents lifetime immunity

Russian President Vladimir Putin has finally congratulated Joe Biden for victory in US Election 2020. Putin's message came after electoral college confirmed Biden's win.

Russian President Vladimir Putin finally congratulates Joe Biden for victory in US Election 2020

President Vladimir Putin signed a law on Tuesday allowing Russia's national legislation precedence over international treaties and rulings from international bodies in cases when they conflict with the Russian constitution.

Vladimir Putin signs law allowing Russian legislation to trump international treaties

Vice-President of India Venkaiah Naidu said during his address at the SCO council of heads meeting that India condemned all forms of terrorism.

India hosts SCO heads of govt meet; PM Modi & Pak PM Imran Khan skips the meet

Russian President Vladimir Putin is edging closer to lifetime immunity. The lower house of the Russian Parliament has supported a bill providing immunity to Russian presidents and their families from criminal prosecution after stepping down.

Today Tonight: Russia moves to protect President from prosecution

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte told an Italian newspaper earlier on Thursday that Putin had promised to set up an inquiry into the recent poisoning of his critic Alexei Navalny.

Putin vows to open inquiry into Alexei Navalny poisoning

Russia praised its embattled ally Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko’s proposals for constitutional changes; Report is here, watch this video.

Russia backs Lukashenko’s constitution reform for Belarus

Critically ill Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny had moved to Germany early Saturday, after colleagues of the opposition politician accused Russian officials of trying to block his evacuation.

Russia: Vladimir Putin's opponent Navalny moves to Germany 'in coma' to receive medical care

The prominent critic of President Vladimir Putin is in a coma and on a ventilator after drinking tea that his supporters believe was poisoned.

Conflicting claims over Navalny's poisoning, Russia agrees for medical evacuation

Russian President Vladimir Putin warned world leaders against interfering in Belarus, country engulfed in the political crisis, as protests against its leader continued to swell. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-work-if-we-cant-do-honest-journalism-belarus-media-goes-on-strike-over-election-result-and-censorship-321354">Also read | Won’t work, if we can’t do honest journalism: Belarus media goes on strike over election result and censorship</a> 
 
Putin spoke to French President and German chancellor in separate phone calls and said that any such attempts would lead to an escalation of the political crisis in Belarus.

Alexander Lukashenko, the leader of Belarus, on Tuesday awarded medals "for impeccable service" to law enforcement officials who have helped him crack down on protesters who have been demanding he step down for the last 10 days. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-lukashenko-gives-nod-to-fresh-elections-says-it-will-happen-after-adoption-of-new-constitution-321280">Belarus President Lukashenko gives nod to fresh elections</a>

Meanwhile, Factory workers in Belarus continued to strike on Tuesday, turning up pressure on the country's authoritarian leader to step down after winning an election they say was rigged.

More state-controlled companies and factories on Tuesday joined the strike that began the day before and encompassed several major tractor factories in Minsk, a huge potash factory in Soligorsk that accounts for a fifth of the world's potash fertiliser output and is the nation's top cash earner, state television and the country's most prominent theater.

The strikes follow nine days of unprecedented mass protests against election results that handed President Alexander Lukashenko his sixth term with 80 per cent of the votes while his top challenger Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya apparently only received 10 per cent.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin warned world leaders against interfering in Belarus, country engulfed in the political crisis, as protests against its leader continued to swell.

Russian President Vladimir Putin warned world leaders against interfering in Belarus, country engulfed in the political crisis, as protests against its leader continued to swell. Also read | Won’t work, if we can’t do honest journalism: Belarus media goes on strike over election result and censorship Putin spoke to French President and German chancellor in separate phone calls and said that any such attempts would lead to an escalation of the political crisis in Belarus. Alexander Lukashenko, the leader of Belarus, on Tuesday awarded medals "for impeccable service" to law enforcement officials who have helped him crack down on protesters who have been demanding he step down for the last 10 days. Also read: Belarus President Lukashenko gives nod to fresh elections Meanwhile, Factory workers in Belarus continued to strike on Tuesday, turning up pressure on the country's authoritarian leader to step down after winning an election they say was rigged. More state-controlled companies and factories on Tuesday joined the strike that began the day before and encompassed several major tractor factories in Minsk, a huge potash factory in Soligorsk that accounts for a fifth of the world's potash fertiliser output and is the nation's top cash earner, state television and the country's most prominent theater. The strikes follow nine days of unprecedented mass protests against election results that handed President Alexander Lukashenko his sixth term with 80 per cent of the votes while his top challenger Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya apparently only received 10 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin warns the world not to interfere in Belarus

Russian President Vladamir Putin proudly announced the approval of the world's first COVID-19 vaccine. A Russian doctor has raised some concerns over the use of vaccines. Watch report.

COVID-19 Pandemic: Russian doctor flags concerns regarding use of Sputnik V

The representatives of Ukraine, Russia and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe agreed on establishing a complete and comprehensive ceasefire

Ukraine says Pro-Russian rebels violated 2 ceasefires

Russian President Vladamir Putin just got his path cleared to be in power in 2036. Many think that success in the nationwide referendum completes the conversion of Putin to a modern-day TSAR. Watch report.

Vladamir Putin: The modern-day TSAR? | No place for opposition in Russia

Russia has passed a referendum that could give Vladimir Putin another 12 years as President. The story of Putin's rise to power is a fascinating one. WION's Palki Sharma brings you some unheard stories about the Russian President's rise from a working-class household to the Kremlin.

Gravitas: How Vladimir Putin became the Tsar of Russia

Vladimir Putin will be President for life and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first foreign leader to have called the Russian President to congratulate him.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-congratulates-putin-on-constitutional-vote-310246">PM Modi congratulates Putin on constitutional vote</a>

Russia has passed a referendum that gives him another 12 years as president. His current term ends in 2024. Add 12 years to that, and &nbsp;Putin be Russia's leader till 2036. The longest-serving leader of Russia. Longer than Stalin who ruled for 29 years.

Putin grew up in the Soviet Union, was part of the Soviet machinery, takes pride in the Soviet glory and yet, manages to distance himself from the decay that marked USSR.

He's often been called the new age Tsar of Russia. A leader who has destroyed all political opposition and wins elections with landslides.

Putin was born to working-class parents, in a house that was said to be infested with rats and smelled of cabbage stew. He was rebellious. Children carried flowers for teachers, Putin took a potted plant. He was caught with a knife in school and denied membership to the youth wing of the Soviet communist party.&nbsp;

He called himself a hooligan. Played the guitar, listened to contraband Beatles records. His father pushed him to take up boxing. A punch broke his nose and he gave up.

Then he took up judo. It suited him better because he was short and thin. Putin says martial arts transformed his life, gave him a means of asserting himself.

Putin's first leadership role came in middle school. He was his school's leader for the communist party. His dream was to become a soviet secret agent. A dream he could never fulfil, even though he joined the kgb in 1975. He was evaluated as mediocre, withdrawn and uncommunicative.&nbsp;

Putin got one foreign posting in Dresden in East Germany. His only act of heroism came after the fall of the Berlin wall. There were protests.&nbsp;

An angry mob surrounded the KGB office. They had one guard and four officers. Lieutenant Colonel Putin was the seniormost. He called Moscow but received no help. So he wore his uniform, stepped out at midnight and bluffed. He told the protestors his guards had weapons and they would shoot. The crowd dispersed.

In March 1989, the Soviet Union had its first elections. Putin's introduction to politics was through his former law professor Anatoly Sobchak. It was because of him that Putin landed on the right side of the collapse of the Soviet Union. &nbsp;

Putin rose through the ranks and went on to become the right-hand man of President Boris Yeltsin.&nbsp;

December 14, 1999, Yeltsin held a secret meeting with Putin. He was stepping down and wanted Putin to take over.

Putin described the presidency as a "difficult destiny." For 16 days, Putin kept the news to himself. On December 30, Yeltsin shared it in a televised address. Putin's wife learned about it only when people called to congratulate. &nbsp;He did not tell her he was going to be president.

Putin mastered the use of media to his advantage. As a young member of the mayor's team in St Petersberg, he commissioned a television documentary to introduce himself to Russia.&nbsp;

A documentary hosted by the top television face of the time. He did not expunge his KGB past. He distanced himself from their crimes. And said his experience in dealing with foreign forces would come in handy to lead a new Russia. To this day, propaganda movies remain a hallmark of Putin's political journey.

His initial years in power saw the economy steady. He was seen as a reformer, cutting taxes and expanding property rights. But soon he unleashed a new kind of authoritarianism.&nbsp;

He used national security as an excuse to tighten his grip on power. Two terms as President from 2000 to 2008. Then one term as Prime Minister till 2012, because the constitution did not allow him more than two terms. In 2012, when his trusted deputy stepped aside, Putin took the presidential office again, this time for two 6-year terms and now he'll rule practically as long as he wants.&nbsp;

Already at 67 with another 16 years secured, Vladimir Putin took an unexpected path to power, brutally crushing revolts and silencing critics, to keep the crown of Russia.

Vladimir Putin will be President for life and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first foreign leader to have called the Russian President to congratulate him.

Vladimir Putin will be President for life and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first foreign leader to have called the Russian President to congratulate him. Also read: PM Modi congratulates Putin on constitutional vote Russia has passed a referendum that gives him another 12 years as president. His current term ends in 2024. Add 12 years to that, and Putin be Russia's leader till 2036. The longest-serving leader of Russia. Longer than Stalin who ruled for 29 years. Putin grew up in the Soviet Union, was part of the Soviet machinery, takes pride in the Soviet glory and yet, manages to distance himself from the decay that marked USSR. He's often been called the new age Tsar of Russia. A leader who has destroyed all political opposition and wins elections with landslides. Putin was born to working-class parents, in a house that was said to be infested with rats and smelled of cabbage stew. He was rebellious. Children carried flowers for teachers, Putin took a potted plant. He was caught with a knife in school and denied membership to the youth wing of the Soviet communist party. He called himself a hooligan. Played the guitar, listened to contraband Beatles records. His father pushed him to take up boxing. A punch broke his nose and he gave up. Then he took up judo. It suited him better because he was short and thin. Putin says martial arts transformed his life, gave him a means of asserting himself. Putin's first leadership role came in middle school. He was his school's leader for the communist party. His dream was to become a soviet secret agent. A dream he could never fulfil, even though he joined the kgb in 1975. He was evaluated as mediocre, withdrawn and uncommunicative. Putin got one foreign posting in Dresden in East Germany. His only act of heroism came after the fall of the Berlin wall. There were protests. An angry mob surrounded the KGB office. They had one guard and four officers. Lieutenant Colonel Putin was the seniormost. He called Moscow but received no help. So he wore his uniform, stepped out at midnight and bluffed. He told the protestors his guards had weapons and they would shoot. The crowd dispersed. In March 1989, the Soviet Union had its first elections. Putin's introduction to politics was through his former law professor Anatoly Sobchak. It was because of him that Putin landed on the right side of the collapse of the Soviet Union. Putin rose through the ranks and went on to become the right-hand man of President Boris Yeltsin. December 14, 1999, Yeltsin held a secret meeting with Putin. He was stepping down and wanted Putin to take over. Putin described the presidency as a "difficult destiny." For 16 days, Putin kept the news to himself. On December 30, Yeltsin shared it in a televised address. Putin's wife learned about it only when people called to congratulate. He did not tell her he was going to be president. Putin mastered the use of media to his advantage. As a young member of the mayor's team in St Petersberg, he commissioned a television documentary to introduce himself to Russia. A documentary hosted by the top television face of the time. He did not expunge his KGB past. He distanced himself from their crimes. And said his experience in dealing with foreign forces would come in handy to lead a new Russia. To this day, propaganda movies remain a hallmark of Putin's political journey. His initial years in power saw the economy steady. He was seen as a reformer, cutting taxes and expanding property rights. But soon he unleashed a new kind of authoritarianism. He used national security as an excuse to tighten his grip on power. Two terms as President from 2000 to 2008. Then one term as Prime Minister till 2012, because the constitution did not allow him more than two terms. In 2012, when his trusted deputy stepped aside, Putin took the presidential office again, this time for two 6-year terms and now he'll rule practically as long as he wants. Already at 67 with another 16 years secured, Vladimir Putin took an unexpected path to power, brutally crushing revolts and silencing critics, to keep the crown of Russia.

Vladimir Putin: From a rebellious kid to Russia's longest-serving leader

Over the last week, millions of Russians have been voting to reform their constitution, a move that will now make Russian President Vladamir Putin's rule until 2036. Watch report.

Putin's reform package from Russia: Putin's grand bid to hold onto power

As Russia prepares for this week's vote on Russian President Vladamir Putin's constitutional reforms, WION takes you to a Russian city located 1300 km east of Moscow Nizhny Tagil. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: Russian Constitutional Amendments 2020 | Nizhny Tagil | Vladamir Putin

Russians today began a marathon seven-day vote on constitutional reforms that will allow Vladimir Putin to stay in power until 2036

Russia: A 7-day voting on Constitutional reform to keep Putin in power until 2036

The doctor who shook hands with Russian President Vladamir Putin has been tested positive for COVID-19. Putin is now being regularly tested and protected around the clock.

Doctor who met Putin tests positive for COVID-19 | Putin being regularly tested

Russian President Vladimir Putin dismissed comparisons to a tsar on Thursday, arguing he "works every day" and listens to what people want.

"Well, this is not true," Putin said when asked about being described as a Russian imperial-era ruler.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-vladimir-putin-may-remain-president-for-life-285897" hreflang="en">WION Edit: Vladimir Putin may remain President for life</a>

"Maybe someone else can be called a tsar. But in my case, I don't reign, I work every day," he told the state-run TASS news agency.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/business-economy/coronavirus-fears-continue-to-hurt-indian-markets-sensex-tumble-nearly-2000-points-287286" hreflang="en">Coronavirus fears continue to hurt Indian markets, Sensex tumble nearly 2,000 points</a>

The interview aired on Thursday as part of a series rolled out by TASS this month to mark 20 years since the 67-year-old Putin took the helm of Russian politics.

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It was not clear when the segments were recorded, but the series began airing before Putin said this month that he wants an opportunity to run for president again, as part of his constitutional reforms.

Explained:<a href="http://13.235.153.162/opinions-blogs/explained-how-vladimir-putin-could-stay-russian-president-for-two-more-terms-285657" hreflang="en"> How Vladimir Putin could stay Russian President for two more terms</a>

The reforms proposed in January include granting more power to parliament and strengthening the role of the State Council.

An amendment approved last week would allow Putin to run for another six years in the Kremlin in 2024 and again in 2030. The reforms will be subject to a public vote.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/photos/twenty-years-of-vladimir-putin-274723" hreflang="en">Key dates in President Vladimir Putin's life: 1952 - 2020</a>

When asked what he foresees past 2024, Putin deferred to the perspective of "people's sentiments... what they want."

"The primary source of power is the people," he said. "It's very important for me to feel and understand what people want."

"A tsar is one who just sits there, looks down from above and says: 'They will do as I order,' while he just tries on a cap and looks at himself in the mirror," Putin said.

"On the contrary, I work every day."

Russian President Vladimir Putin dismissed comparisons to a tsar on Thursday, arguing he "works every day" and listens to what people want. "Well, this is not true," Putin said when asked about being described as a Russian imperial-era ruler.

Russian President Vladimir Putin dismissed comparisons to a tsar on Thursday, arguing he "works every day" and listens to what people want. "Well, this is not true," Putin said when asked about being described as a Russian imperial-era ruler. Also read: WION Edit: Vladimir Putin may remain President for life "Maybe someone else can be called a tsar. But in my case, I don't reign, I work every day," he told the state-run TASS news agency. Also read: Coronavirus fears continue to hurt Indian markets, Sensex tumble nearly 2,000 points The interview aired on Thursday as part of a series rolled out by TASS this month to mark 20 years since the 67-year-old Putin took the helm of Russian politics. It was not clear when the segments were recorded, but the series began airing before Putin said this month that he wants an opportunity to run for president again, as part of his constitutional reforms. Explained: How Vladimir Putin could stay Russian President for two more terms The reforms proposed in January include granting more power to parliament and strengthening the role of the State Council. An amendment approved last week would allow Putin to run for another six years in the Kremlin in 2024 and again in 2030. The reforms will be subject to a public vote. In pics: Key dates in President Vladimir Putin's life: 1952 - 2020 When asked what he foresees past 2024, Putin deferred to the perspective of "people's sentiments... what they want." "The primary source of power is the people," he said. "It's very important for me to feel and understand what people want." "A tsar is one who just sits there, looks down from above and says: 'They will do as I order,' while he just tries on a cap and looks at himself in the mirror," Putin said. "On the contrary, I work every day."

Russian President Vladimir Putin says, 'I am not a 'tsar', I work every day'

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 
&nbsp;

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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

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