The Indian Business Community in Ukraine is on the edge. A war could spell doom for their livelihoods. Palki Sharma interviewed Indian businessmen based in Kyiv to understand their worries.

Gravitas Ukraine Direct: WION speaks to Indian Businessmen in Ukraine

<p>The world seems to be wondering why French President Emmanuel Macron and Russian President Vladimir Putin sat at a great distance. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Well, after huge speculation, the reason seems to have been revealed on Thursday. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/things-could-go-crazy-ukraine-accuses-russia-of-hybrid-war-amid-naval-drill-452265" hreflang="en">'Things could go crazy': Ukraine accuses Russia of 'hybrid war' in naval drill</a></strong></p>

<p>Before meeting Putin in Moscow, Macron was asked to take a Covid test. But as the French President refused, he was seated at the opposite end of a 13-foot-long table, a Reuters report said citing two sources in Macron's entourage. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Putin VS Macron... <a href="https://t.co/ZhXkBvmrTN">pic.twitter.com/ZhXkBvmrTN</a></p>
— Franjolittle (@Franjorodowski) <a href="https://twitter.com/Franjorodowski/status/1490793941163298817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>In an attempt to de-escalate the Ukraine standoff, French President Emmanuel Macron had met Russian Vladimir Putin in Moscow. &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Welcome to the first annual Putin and Macron’s weirdly large table photoshop challenge. Use this to make your own. Here are our entries. <a href="https://t.co/g2frrfVueT">pic.twitter.com/g2frrfVueT</a></p>
— Full Frontal (@FullFrontalSamB) <a href="https://twitter.com/FullFrontalSamB/status/1490834714101366787?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ever since reports came out that Russia had amassed over 100,000 troops near the Ukraine borders, hectic diplomatic parlays have been taking place to defuse the tense situation. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ultimatums-threats-from-west-on-ukraine-wont-work-against-russia-says-foreign-minister-452104" hreflang="en">Ultimatums, threats from West on Ukraine won’t work against Russia, says FM</a></strong></p>

<p>Even though the meeting took place in the backdrop of a war-like situation with the US and Russia exchanging warnings over the Ukraine crisis, an image of the two released by the state media certainly raised eyebrows of the netizens. &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Will Putin and Macron do face painting after? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pointless?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pointless</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lipservice?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lipservice</a> <a href="https://t.co/hi9agrWzmZ">pic.twitter.com/hi9agrWzmZ</a></p>
— Tarquin (@Tarquin_Helmet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tarquin_Helmet/status/1490792897599488002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The image drew a lot of attention. Not because of the issues discussed during the meeting, rather the way they were seated, left the twitteraits in splits. &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p>The netizens couldn’t help notice how far Macron was sitting over a gigantic table from Putin. &nbsp;</p>

<p>It had led to a meme fest. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The world seems to be wondering why French President Emmanuel Macron and Russian President Vladimir Putin sat at a great distance. Well, after huge speculation, the reason seems to have been revealed on Thursday.

The world seems to be wondering why French President Emmanuel Macron and Russian President Vladimir Putin sat at a great distance. Well, after huge speculation, the reason seems to have been revealed on Thursday. Also Read: 'Things could go crazy': Ukraine accuses Russia of 'hybrid war' in naval drill Before meeting Putin in Moscow, Macron was asked to take a Covid test. But as the French President refused, he was seated at the opposite end of a 13-foot-long table, a Reuters report said citing two sources in Macron's entourage. Putin VS Macron... pic.twitter.com/ZhXkBvmrTN — Franjolittle (@Franjorodowski) February 7, 2022 × In an attempt to de-escalate the Ukraine standoff, French President Emmanuel Macron had met Russian Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Welcome to the first annual Putin and Macron’s weirdly large table photoshop challenge. Use this to make your own. Here are our entries. pic.twitter.com/g2frrfVueT — Full Frontal (@FullFrontalSamB) February 7, 2022 × Ever since reports came out that Russia had amassed over 100,000 troops near the Ukraine borders, hectic diplomatic parlays have been taking place to defuse the tense situation. Also Read: Ultimatums, threats from West on Ukraine won’t work against Russia, says FM Even though the meeting took place in the backdrop of a war-like situation with the US and Russia exchanging warnings over the Ukraine crisis, an image of the two released by the state media certainly raised eyebrows of the netizens. Will Putin and Macron do face painting after? #Ukraine #pointless #lipservice pic.twitter.com/hi9agrWzmZ — Tarquin (@Tarquin_Helmet) February 7, 2022 × The image drew a lot of attention. Not because of the issues discussed during the meeting, rather the way they were seated, left the twitteraits in splits. The netizens couldn’t help notice how far Macron was sitting over a gigantic table from Putin. It had led to a meme fest. (With inputs from agencies)

This is why Macron, Putin sat across long table in meeting, causing meme fest

Will Russia use military drills as pretext for war? Do Ukrainian forces stand a chance against the Russian Juggernaut. Palki Sharma decodes Ukraine's options with Volodymyr Solohub & Katharine Quinn-Judge.

Gravitas Ukraine Direct: Will Ukraine survive war? WION interviews Volodymyr Solohub & Katharine Quinn-Judge

<p>Last week, Ukrainian legislators held up the flags of countries providing military and diplomatic assistance to Ukraine as it faces the threat of a Russian invasion. The flags of the United States, Britain, Canada, Denmark, Poland and Turkey all jostled for space. One, however, was conspicuous by its absence: the black, red and gold of Germany.</p>

<p>It was a fitting rebuke. Over the past few weeks, as Europe has seemingly approached the brink of war, Germany has been the odd man out. While the United States, Britain and Poland delivered weapons to Ukraine, the German government stoutly refused to do the same — and even seemed to block a transfer of weapons previously sold to Estonia. Across the continent, criticism has been fierce.</p>

<p>For Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who on Monday met with President Biden in Washington, it’s been a trial by fire. In office since December and at the head of a new coalition government, he has struggled to gain control of a situation that threatens to torpedo his authority. It’s a stark contrast to the way Angela Merkel stepped up after Russia annexed Crimea in 2014. Through active and energetic diplomacy, Ms. Merkel was able to bring about a cease-fire and something approaching a settlement. Under similar pressure, her successor has gone missing.</p>

<p>But the problem goes beyond Mr. Scholz to Germany itself. The crisis in Ukraine puts to the sword many of the country’s central assumptions about its role in the world. Wedded to the past and conflicted in the present, Germany — at least when it comes to foreign policy — looks stuck. But now is not the time to be indecisive. It needs to assert itself as a power broker and unify Europe’s response to Russian aggression.</p>

<p>The first difficulty, of course, is historical. Determined not to repeat the horrors of the past, the country is extremely wary about military engagement. That caution extends to weapons, which are generally not sold to conflict zones or when they could become instruments of human rights violations. In practice, economic interests often overrule principles: Saudi Arabia and Egypt receive German weaponry. Yet with Russia, the issue is particularly fraught. Never again, goes the catechism, shall German weapons be used to kill Russian citizens.</p>

<p>These historical arguments are not particularly useful in the 21st century. But Germany just can’t get over them: Pacifism and history are deeply ingrained in our public debate and particularly in the political culture of two of the three parties currently governing the country, the Greens and the Social Democrats.</p>

<p>For Mr. Scholz’s Social Democratic Party, relations with Russia are an especially emotional and contested issue. The party prides itself on its change-through-rapprochement approach during the Cold War, and many members defend the notion that Germany’s role is to be a buffer between the United States and Russia rather than to clearly side with the West. It’s a narrative rooted in nostalgia and idealism, but it has a cynical side: The party’s defense for Nord Stream 2, the controversial pipeline built to deliver more Russian gas to Europe, often clads straightforward economic interests in the gown of historical dignity.</p>

<p>For the Green Party, the second largest in Germany’s so-called Traffic Light coalition, the situation is no less sensitive. Founded out of the peace and ecological movements in 1980, it opposed the deployment of American nuclear weapons to Germany and rearmament generally. The party’s position has since evolved, but Russia’s threat to Ukraine has caught the Greens at a difficult moment. After a slightly disappointing election result in September, tensions within the party — over cabinet positions, internal reforms and political priorities — are high. It is, in short, a bad moment to take an ax to a central pillar of party identity.</p>

<p>Then there’s the coalition itself, formed two months ago and keen to show it can provide stable rule. With domestic problems mounting — rising prices, pandemic restrictions and ambitious decarbonization plans threaten the country’s uneasy equilibrium — the government may have decided not to risk its unity over a foreign policy issue. Its caution, after all, is in step with national opinion at large: A recent survey showed that 59 percent of Germans oppose delivering weapons to Ukraine, while only 20 percent approve.</p>

<p>Taken together, it amounts to a difficult brief for Mr. Scholz. And it’s clear that, so far, he’s struggled to meet the moment. Criticism abroad — Latvia’s defense minister called Germany’s reluctance to arm Ukraine “immoral” and “hypocritical” — has been more sharply expressed but no more pointed than at home, where Mr. Scholz has been derided as almost invisible. (On Twitter, #WoIstScholz — “Where is Scholz?” — became something between a lament and a joke.) His personal approval ratings have sunk 17 percentage points, according to a recent poll, and his party’s standing has also taken a hit. After Ms. Merkel’s long tenure, Mr. Scholz is discovering just how hard the job can be. It’s not just Germany he’s struggling to lead; it’s Europe, too.</p>

<p>Yet Mr. Scholz maintains that the country is taking the right path. In a television interview last week, he stressed that Germany has invested $2 billion in Ukraine in recent years. Building a country’s resilience, a senior government official told me, means helping it to defend itself. The chancellery appears to deem weapon deliveries to Ukraine purely symbolic — a costly exercise politically, with little actual impact. And officials were quick to underline Germany’s leading presence in NATO’s deployment, since 2017, of troops to Poland and the Baltic States. On Monday, the country announced it would send 350 more soldiers to defend NATO’s eastern flank.</p>

<p>Is this just the usual German delusion? Is the country just making excuses for pursuing business as usual? Yes and no. Germany is certainly reluctant to leave its comfort zone, as its hesitancy — nowhere better captured than in its offer to send Ukraine helmets rather than missiles — clearly betrays. But some things have changed.</p>

<p>For one thing, some Social Democrats appear willing to leave behind the idea of a special relationship with Russia. “We don’t want a special role for Germany,” Michael Roth, a Social Democrat who heads the Foreign Affairs Committee, told me. This is a significant development and means that Nord Stream 2 is, for the first time, genuinely on the line. As Annalena Baerbock, the foreign minister (and a co-leader of the Green Party), made clear to her Russian counterpart in January: Germany is prepared to act, even if “such measures hurt us economically.”</p>

<p>In the context of the past, it’s a bold statement. But these nuances are not as easy to grasp as boots on the ground. On Monday, Mr. Scholz, addressing Mr. Biden by his first name, sought to bolster the trans-Atlantic alliance. “We are absolutely united,” he said. There’s no reason, really, to doubt it. But it may still take some convincing.</p>


Last week, Ukrainian legislators held up the flags of countries providing military and diplomatic assistance to Ukraine as it faces the threat of a Russian invasion.

Last week, Ukrainian legislators held up the flags of countries providing military and diplomatic assistance to Ukraine as it faces the threat of a Russian invasion. The flags of the United States, Britain, Canada, Denmark, Poland and Turkey all jostled for space. One, however, was conspicuous by its absence: the black, red and gold of Germany. It was a fitting rebuke. Over the past few weeks, as Europe has seemingly approached the brink of war, Germany has been the odd man out. While the United States, Britain and Poland delivered weapons to Ukraine, the German government stoutly refused to do the same — and even seemed to block a transfer of weapons previously sold to Estonia. Across the continent, criticism has been fierce. For Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who on Monday met with President Biden in Washington, it’s been a trial by fire. In office since December and at the head of a new coalition government, he has struggled to gain control of a situation that threatens to torpedo his authority. It’s a stark contrast to the way Angela Merkel stepped up after Russia annexed Crimea in 2014. Through active and energetic diplomacy, Ms. Merkel was able to bring about a cease-fire and something approaching a settlement. Under similar pressure, her successor has gone missing. But the problem goes beyond Mr. Scholz to Germany itself. The crisis in Ukraine puts to the sword many of the country’s central assumptions about its role in the world. Wedded to the past and conflicted in the present, Germany — at least when it comes to foreign policy — looks stuck. But now is not the time to be indecisive. It needs to assert itself as a power broker and unify Europe’s response to Russian aggression. The first difficulty, of course, is historical. Determined not to repeat the horrors of the past, the country is extremely wary about military engagement. That caution extends to weapons, which are generally not sold to conflict zones or when they could become instruments of human rights violations. In practice, economic interests often overrule principles: Saudi Arabia and Egypt receive German weaponry. Yet with Russia, the issue is particularly fraught. Never again, goes the catechism, shall German weapons be used to kill Russian citizens. These historical arguments are not particularly useful in the 21st century. But Germany just can’t get over them: Pacifism and history are deeply ingrained in our public debate and particularly in the political culture of two of the three parties currently governing the country, the Greens and the Social Democrats. For Mr. Scholz’s Social Democratic Party, relations with Russia are an especially emotional and contested issue. The party prides itself on its change-through-rapprochement approach during the Cold War, and many members defend the notion that Germany’s role is to be a buffer between the United States and Russia rather than to clearly side with the West. It’s a narrative rooted in nostalgia and idealism, but it has a cynical side: The party’s defense for Nord Stream 2, the controversial pipeline built to deliver more Russian gas to Europe, often clads straightforward economic interests in the gown of historical dignity. For the Green Party, the second largest in Germany’s so-called Traffic Light coalition, the situation is no less sensitive. Founded out of the peace and ecological movements in 1980, it opposed the deployment of American nuclear weapons to Germany and rearmament generally. The party’s position has since evolved, but Russia’s threat to Ukraine has caught the Greens at a difficult moment. After a slightly disappointing election result in September, tensions within the party — over cabinet positions, internal reforms and political priorities — are high. It is, in short, a bad moment to take an ax to a central pillar of party identity. Then there’s the coalition itself, formed two months ago and keen to show it can provide stable rule. With domestic problems mounting — rising prices, pandemic restrictions and ambitious decarbonization plans threaten the country’s uneasy equilibrium — the government may have decided not to risk its unity over a foreign policy issue. Its caution, after all, is in step with national opinion at large: A recent survey showed that 59 percent of Germans oppose delivering weapons to Ukraine, while only 20 percent approve. Taken together, it amounts to a difficult brief for Mr. Scholz. And it’s clear that, so far, he’s struggled to meet the moment. Criticism abroad — Latvia’s defense minister called Germany’s reluctance to arm Ukraine “immoral” and “hypocritical” — has been more sharply expressed but no more pointed than at home, where Mr. Scholz has been derided as almost invisible. (On Twitter, #WoIstScholz — “Where is Scholz?” — became something between a lament and a joke.) His personal approval ratings have sunk 17 percentage points, according to a recent poll, and his party’s standing has also taken a hit. After Ms. Merkel’s long tenure, Mr. Scholz is discovering just how hard the job can be. It’s not just Germany he’s struggling to lead; it’s Europe, too. Yet Mr. Scholz maintains that the country is taking the right path. In a television interview last week, he stressed that Germany has invested $2 billion in Ukraine in recent years. Building a country’s resilience, a senior government official told me, means helping it to defend itself. The chancellery appears to deem weapon deliveries to Ukraine purely symbolic — a costly exercise politically, with little actual impact. And officials were quick to underline Germany’s leading presence in NATO’s deployment, since 2017, of troops to Poland and the Baltic States. On Monday, the country announced it would send 350 more soldiers to defend NATO’s eastern flank. Is this just the usual German delusion? Is the country just making excuses for pursuing business as usual? Yes and no. Germany is certainly reluctant to leave its comfort zone, as its hesitancy — nowhere better captured than in its offer to send Ukraine helmets rather than missiles — clearly betrays. But some things have changed. For one thing, some Social Democrats appear willing to leave behind the idea of a special relationship with Russia. “We don’t want a special role for Germany,” Michael Roth, a Social Democrat who heads the Foreign Affairs Committee, told me. This is a significant development and means that Nord Stream 2 is, for the first time, genuinely on the line. As Annalena Baerbock, the foreign minister (and a co-leader of the Green Party), made clear to her Russian counterpart in January: Germany is prepared to act, even if “such measures hurt us economically.” In the context of the past, it’s a bold statement. But these nuances are not as easy to grasp as boots on the ground. On Monday, Mr. Scholz, addressing Mr. Biden by his first name, sought to bolster the trans-Atlantic alliance. “We are absolutely united,” he said. There’s no reason, really, to doubt it. But it may still take some convincing.

Europe is on the brink of war, and Germany has gone missing

Ukrainian troops are bracing themselves for a Russian juggernaut. Joining them are 17,000 foreign fighters from 27 countries. Palki Sharma travelled to the headquarters of the Georgia National Legion which is training these fighters for war. Here's a ground report.

Gravitas Ukraine Direct: Inside Ukraine's training camp for foreign fighters

French President Emmanuel Macron met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Macron then met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv. Macron is trying to be the peacemaker. What's in it for him? Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas Ukraine Direct: Ukraine, Russia crisis: Why is Macron playing the peacemaker?

Does Vladimir Putin want a war or a face saver? What kind of concessions is he looking for? Romoeo Kokriatski, Managing Editor at The New Voice of Ukraine & foreign policy expert Svitlana Zalischuk decode his intentions in an exclusive conversation with Palki Sharma.

Gravitas Ukraine Direct: Ukraine Conflict: What does Putin really want?

The leaders of Germany, France and Poland on Tuesday urged Russia to pursue a diplomatic solution to the Ukraine crisis during their meeting in Berlin. The joint request came after Germany, and France's leaders stepped up their diplomatic efforts amid rising tension between Russia and Ukraine in the last few days.

Ukraine Crisis: Leaders of Germany, France, Poland meet to prevent war in Europe

French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday said that steps could be taken to de-escalate the Ukraine crisis and suggested both sides to stay calm. Macron shuttled from Moscow to Kyiv in an attempt to mediate a settlement and avoid war.

Ukraine Crisis: Macron calls for calm, meets both countries' presidents

Palki Sharma joins the 135th battalion of the Territorial Defence Forces as they train in snow-covered northern Ukraine. Can the civilian recruits step up against the massive Russian war machine? How are they moulded into battle-ready soldiers? Catch this ground report to find out.

Gravitas: WION ringside at Ukraine military drill

The Russia-Ukraine conflict is being shaped from different capitals in the world. WION has correspondents tracking all sides of the story. Watch our Executive Editor Palki Sharma decode Monday's biggest developments with correspondents from Moscow, Washington DC & Brussels.

Gravitas Ukraine Direct: Russia vs Ukraine: WION decodes Monday's biggest developments

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron met Russian Vladimir Putin in Moscow in an attempt to de-escalate the Ukraine standoff.</p>

<p>Ever since reports have come out that Russia has amassed over 100,000 troops near the Ukraine borders, hectic diplomatic parlays have been taking place to defuse the tense situation.</p>

<p>Even though the meeting took place in the backdrop of a war-like situation with the US and Russia exchanging warnings over the Ukraine crisis, an image of the two released by the state media certainly raised eyebrows of the netizens.</p>

<p>The image drew a lot of attention.&nbsp;Not because of the issues discussed during the meeting, rather the way they were seated left the twitteraits in splits.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The netizens couldn’t help but notice how far Macron was sitting over a gigantic table from Putin.</p>

<p>Soon, memes started to pour in on how two were “committed” to keep their distance.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Will Putin and Macron do face painting after? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pointless?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pointless</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lipservice?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lipservice</a> <a href="https://t.co/hi9agrWzmZ">pic.twitter.com/hi9agrWzmZ</a></p>
— Tarquin (@Tarquin_Helmet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tarquin_Helmet/status/1490792897599488002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">ये दूरियाँ…<br />
video call ही कर लेते 😐 <a href="https://t.co/1Xmvgs2GUm">pic.twitter.com/1Xmvgs2GUm</a></p>
— Palki Sharma (@palkisu) <a href="https://twitter.com/palkisu/status/1490788275929370629?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://t.co/6FVXFQ4prU">pic.twitter.com/6FVXFQ4prU</a></p>
— Ed Pogue 🖖🏻 (@Buttwasted) <a href="https://twitter.com/Buttwasted/status/1490837896139403265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://t.co/iCoaEdj53s">pic.twitter.com/iCoaEdj53s</a></p>
— Credo MacKenzie (@CredoMacKenzie) <a href="https://twitter.com/CredoMacKenzie/status/1490845637578874881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Putin VS Macron... <a href="https://t.co/ZhXkBvmrTN">pic.twitter.com/ZhXkBvmrTN</a></p>
— Franjolittle (@Franjorodowski) <a href="https://twitter.com/Franjorodowski/status/1490793941163298817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Macron flew into Moscow at the start of a week of&nbsp;intense Western diplomacy aimed at easing fears of a Russian invasion&nbsp;of its pro-Western neighbour.</p>

<p>Sitting across a long table from Putin at the Kremlin, Macron said he was in Moscow to address the "critical situation" in Europe.</p>

<p>Macron told reporters the coming days would be "decisive" and "require intensive discussions which we will pursue together".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


French President Emmanuel Macron met Russian Vladimir Putin in Moscow in an attempt to de-escalate the Ukraine standoff. Ever since reports have come out that Russia has amassed over 100,000 troops near the Ukraine borders, hectic diplomatic parlays have been taking place to defuse the tense situation.

French President Emmanuel Macron met Russian Vladimir Putin in Moscow in an attempt to de-escalate the Ukraine standoff. Ever since reports have come out that Russia has amassed over 100,000 troops near the Ukraine borders, hectic diplomatic parlays have been taking place to defuse the tense situation. Even though the meeting took place in the backdrop of a war-like situation with the US and Russia exchanging warnings over the Ukraine crisis, an image of the two released by the state media certainly raised eyebrows of the netizens. The image drew a lot of attention. Not because of the issues discussed during the meeting, rather the way they were seated left the twitteraits in splits. The netizens couldn’t help but notice how far Macron was sitting over a gigantic table from Putin. Soon, memes started to pour in on how two were “committed” to keep their distance. Will Putin and Macron do face painting after? #Ukraine #pointless #lipservice pic.twitter.com/hi9agrWzmZ — Tarquin (@Tarquin_Helmet) February 7, 2022 × ये दूरियाँ… video call ही कर लेते 😐 pic.twitter.com/1Xmvgs2GUm — Palki Sharma (@palkisu) February 7, 2022 × pic.twitter.com/6FVXFQ4prU — Ed Pogue 🖖🏻 (@Buttwasted) February 8, 2022 × pic.twitter.com/iCoaEdj53s — Credo MacKenzie (@CredoMacKenzie) February 8, 2022 × Putin VS Macron... pic.twitter.com/ZhXkBvmrTN — Franjolittle (@Franjorodowski) February 7, 2022 × Macron flew into Moscow at the start of a week of intense Western diplomacy aimed at easing fears of a Russian invasion of its pro-Western neighbour. Sitting across a long table from Putin at the Kremlin, Macron said he was in Moscow to address the "critical situation" in Europe. Macron told reporters the coming days would be "decisive" and "require intensive discussions which we will pursue together". (With inputs from agencies)

Putin-Macron meet, sitting across long table, triggers meme fest, netizens have a field day

<p>President Joe Biden said Monday "it would be wise"&nbsp;for Americans other than essential diplomats to leave Ukraine amid the Russian military threat.</p>

<p>Biden made his comments during a joint press conference with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz at the White House, shortly after the two leaders met for talks about the simmering crisis.</p>

<p>The State Department has already authorized nonessential employees to leave and has called on all family members of diplomats in Ukraine to do so.</p>

<p>Biden also said Monday "there will no longer be Nord Stream 2,"&nbsp;a crucial Russia-to-Germany natural gas pipeline, if Russia further invades Ukraine with "tanks and troops."</p>

<p>International efforts to defuse the standoff over Ukraine intensified Monday, with French President Emmanuel Macron holding talks in Moscow and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Washington to coordinate policies as fears of a Russian invasion mounted.</p>

<p>The buildup of over 100,000 Russian troops near Ukraine has fueled Western worries of a possible offensive. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan warned Sunday that Russia could invade Ukraine "any day,"&nbsp;triggering a conflict that would come at an "enormous human cost."</p>

<p>Russia has denied any plans to attack its neighbour but demands that the U.S. And its allies bar Ukraine and other former Soviet nations from joining NATO, halt weapons deployments there and roll back NATO forces from Eastern Europe. Washington and NATO reject those demands.</p>

<p>Speaking at the start of his meeting with Scholz, U.S. President Joe Biden said that the U.S. And Germany were "working in lockstep to further deter Russian aggression in Europe."</p>

<p>Scholz added: "We are closest allies and we are working intensely together, and this is necessary for doing the steps that we have to do, for instance, fighting against Russian aggression against Ukraine."</p>

<p>Macron, meanwhile, called for de-escalation as he began talks with President Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin. "Dialogue is necessary because that's the only thing that will help, in my views, to build a context of a security and stability on the European continent,"&nbsp;Macron said, adding that he's ready to "start building an effective response."</p>

<p>Putin, in turn, praised France's role in shaping European security, saying he appreciates Macron's efforts to help ensure "an equal security in Europe"&nbsp;and broker a settlement to the Ukrainian crisis. "I realize that we share concern about what's going on in Europe in the security sphere,"&nbsp;the Russian leader said as he faced Macron across a long table.</p>

<p>Macron and Putin then met for hours of one-on-one talks and a meal that included fish soup, the choice of sturgeon or reindeer with sweet potatoes and pear pie with vanilla ice cream.</p>

<p>Macron, who heads Tuesday to Ukraine, spoke by phone Sunday with Biden. Before the Putin meeting, Macron said: "I don't believe in spontaneous miracles."</p>

<p>"The security and sovereignty of Ukraine or any other European state cannot be a subject for compromise, while it is also legitimate for Russia to pose the question of its own security,"&nbsp;Macron told the French newspaper Journal du Dimanche, adding he believes "the geopolitical objective of Russia today is clearly not Ukraine, but to clarify the rules of cohabitation with NATO and the EU."</p>

<p>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov sought to temper expectations, saying "the situation is too complex to expect a decisive breakthrough after just one meeting,"&nbsp;and noting the West has ignored Moscow's security demands.</p>

<p>Before meeting Biden, Scholz told German media that "there will be a very high price if Ukraine is attacked militarily. And we are preparing for this very precisely and have been talking about the details for a long time.? Scholz will travel to Kyiv and Moscow Feb. 14-15.</p>

<p>Ahead of the visit, the White House sought to play down Germany's refusal to supply lethal weapons to Ukraine, bolster its troops in Eastern Europe or spell out which sanctions it would support against Russia ? a cautious stand that has drawn criticism abroad and inside Germany.</p>

<p>White House press secretary Jen Psaki on Monday again pushed back against criticism of Germany that it's not doing enough to support Ukraine.</p>

<p>"The president has also noted&nbsp;that different countries make different contributions,"&nbsp;Psaki said, noting Germany's significant nonmilitary aid to Ukraine.</p>

<p>Psaki also reiterated that the Nord Stream 2 Russian gas pipeline to Germany "will not move forward"&nbsp;should Russia further invade Ukraine. But she sidestepped questions about whether the Germans have given the White House assurances that it would shut off the pipeline that has been completed and is currently awaiting certification by German and EU regulators.</p>

<p>Separately German Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht said her country would add up to 350 troops within a few days to about 500 already a part of a NATO battlegroup in Lithuania. "With this, we are strengthening our contribution to forces on NATO's eastern flank and sending a very clear signal of unity to our allies,"&nbsp;she said.</p>

<p>Biden already has deployed additional U.S. Troops to Poland, Romania and Germany, and a few dozen elite U.S troops and equipment landed Sunday in southeastern Poland near the border with Ukraine, with hundreds more infantry troops of the 82nd Airborne Division set to arrive.</p>

<p>Britain said it was sending 350 troops to Poland to bolster NATO forces, joining 100 Royal Engineers already there.</p>


President Joe Biden said Monday "it would be wise" for Americans other than essential diplomats to leave Ukraine amid the Russian military threat. Biden made his comments during a joint press conference with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz at the White House, shortly after the two leaders met for talks about the simmering crisis.

President Joe Biden said Monday "it would be wise" for Americans other than essential diplomats to leave Ukraine amid the Russian military threat. Biden made his comments during a joint press conference with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz at the White House, shortly after the two leaders met for talks about the simmering crisis. The State Department has already authorized nonessential employees to leave and has called on all family members of diplomats in Ukraine to do so. Biden also said Monday "there will no longer be Nord Stream 2," a crucial Russia-to-Germany natural gas pipeline, if Russia further invades Ukraine with "tanks and troops." International efforts to defuse the standoff over Ukraine intensified Monday, with French President Emmanuel Macron holding talks in Moscow and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Washington to coordinate policies as fears of a Russian invasion mounted. The buildup of over 100,000 Russian troops near Ukraine has fueled Western worries of a possible offensive. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan warned Sunday that Russia could invade Ukraine "any day," triggering a conflict that would come at an "enormous human cost." Russia has denied any plans to attack its neighbour but demands that the U.S. And its allies bar Ukraine and other former Soviet nations from joining NATO, halt weapons deployments there and roll back NATO forces from Eastern Europe. Washington and NATO reject those demands. Speaking at the start of his meeting with Scholz, U.S. President Joe Biden said that the U.S. And Germany were "working in lockstep to further deter Russian aggression in Europe." Scholz added: "We are closest allies and we are working intensely together, and this is necessary for doing the steps that we have to do, for instance, fighting against Russian aggression against Ukraine." Macron, meanwhile, called for de-escalation as he began talks with President Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin. "Dialogue is necessary because that's the only thing that will help, in my views, to build a context of a security and stability on the European continent," Macron said, adding that he's ready to "start building an effective response." Putin, in turn, praised France's role in shaping European security, saying he appreciates Macron's efforts to help ensure "an equal security in Europe" and broker a settlement to the Ukrainian crisis. "I realize that we share concern about what's going on in Europe in the security sphere," the Russian leader said as he faced Macron across a long table. Macron and Putin then met for hours of one-on-one talks and a meal that included fish soup, the choice of sturgeon or reindeer with sweet potatoes and pear pie with vanilla ice cream. Macron, who heads Tuesday to Ukraine, spoke by phone Sunday with Biden. Before the Putin meeting, Macron said: "I don't believe in spontaneous miracles." "The security and sovereignty of Ukraine or any other European state cannot be a subject for compromise, while it is also legitimate for Russia to pose the question of its own security," Macron told the French newspaper Journal du Dimanche, adding he believes "the geopolitical objective of Russia today is clearly not Ukraine, but to clarify the rules of cohabitation with NATO and the EU." Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov sought to temper expectations, saying "the situation is too complex to expect a decisive breakthrough after just one meeting," and noting the West has ignored Moscow's security demands. Before meeting Biden, Scholz told German media that "there will be a very high price if Ukraine is attacked militarily. And we are preparing for this very precisely and have been talking about the details for a long time.? Scholz will travel to Kyiv and Moscow Feb. 14-15. Ahead of the visit, the White House sought to play down Germany's refusal to supply lethal weapons to Ukraine, bolster its troops in Eastern Europe or spell out which sanctions it would support against Russia ? a cautious stand that has drawn criticism abroad and inside Germany. White House press secretary Jen Psaki on Monday again pushed back against criticism of Germany that it's not doing enough to support Ukraine. "The president has also noted that different countries make different contributions," Psaki said, noting Germany's significant nonmilitary aid to Ukraine. Psaki also reiterated that the Nord Stream 2 Russian gas pipeline to Germany "will not move forward" should Russia further invade Ukraine. But she sidestepped questions about whether the Germans have given the White House assurances that it would shut off the pipeline that has been completed and is currently awaiting certification by German and EU regulators. Separately German Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht said her country would add up to 350 troops within a few days to about 500 already a part of a NATO battlegroup in Lithuania. "With this, we are strengthening our contribution to forces on NATO's eastern flank and sending a very clear signal of unity to our allies," she said. Biden already has deployed additional U.S. Troops to Poland, Romania and Germany, and a few dozen elite U.S troops and equipment landed Sunday in southeastern Poland near the border with Ukraine, with hundreds more infantry troops of the 82nd Airborne Division set to arrive. Britain said it was sending 350 troops to Poland to bolster NATO forces, joining 100 Royal Engineers already there.

It 'would be wise' for Americans to leave Ukraine, says Biden

Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba has called on Russia to de-escalate tensions along the country's border. He also reiterated that the regions of Donbas and Crimea are a part of Ukraine.

Ukraine FM Kuleba asks Russia to defuse border tensions

Amidst the American warnings of an 'imminent invasion' into Ukraine, interestingly, Ukraine has pushed back against the apocalyptic assessment and played down the fears of Russian invasion. Palki Sharma gets you the ground report.

Ukraine plays down apocalyptic warnings amidst US' warnings of an 'imminent invasion'

As the threat of Russia invading Ukraine looms the United States has painted the most ominous picture till date. According to some senior officials in Washington DC, Russia has assembled about 70 percent of its military capabilities which is needed for a full-scale invasion

Ukraine Conflict: Support pours in from US, India Germany among others

Tensions are running deep in Ukraine, even though Russia says it's not planning a Ukrainian invasion its troops are carrying out aerial drills just 75Kms away from the Ukrainian capital Kyiv. Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you more updates from ground zero.

NATO: Significant movement of Russian military forces

While the gridlock continues over Ukraine Russian ambassador to Washington Anatoly Antonov has reiterated that Russia is not planning to attack Ukraine the envoy added that war is not Moscow's interest

Russian Envoy to US - No truth behind illusory plans of Russian aggression

India has refused to pick sides in the ongoing stand-off in Ukraine. Russia is a long-time strategic partner and the US is leading the anti-China coalition. Palki Sharma decodes India's non-alignment.

Gravitas: India's stakes in the Ukraine crisis

WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma is in Kyiv to track the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Watch her decode the developments with correspondents from Brussels, Moscow & Beijing.

Gravitas: Tracking the Russia-Ukraine conflict

<p>Russia shut down German broadcaster Deutsche Welle (DW) in Moscow as a retaliatory move to Berlin's decision to ban Russian broadcaster RT DE. Russia said it was stripping DW's staff of their accreditation.</p>

<p>Moscow said it would stop the German channel being broadcast in Russia and start proceedings that would see it declared a "foreign agent," a designation that carries a negative Soviet-era connotation.</p>

<p>Russian foreign ministry said that it would bar entry in Russia for German officials involved in banning of RT DE.</p>

<p>The row between Russia and Germany has erupted amid tensions between Russia and the West over Ukraine Crisis. The strain between Germany and Russia can be first political test for news elected German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.</p>

<p>Germany's MABB media watchdog and Commission for Licensing and Supervision (ZAK) of media institutions said this week that RT DE could not broadcast in Germany using a Serbian licence, a decision that angered Russia.</p>

<p>In a statement on its website detailing its retaliatory measures, Russia's foreign ministry described the German move to ban Russian broadcaster "unfriendly".</p>

<p>No immediate comment from DW was forthcoming.</p>

<p>The announcement comes amid a crackdown on media outlets Russia considers "foreign agents". It uses the term to designate foreign-funded organisations it says are engaged in political activity.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia shut down German broadcaster Deutsche Welle (DW) in Moscow as a retaliatory move to Berlin's decision to ban Russian broadcaster RT DE. Russia said it was stripping DW's staff of their accreditation.

Russia shut down German broadcaster Deutsche Welle (DW) in Moscow as a retaliatory move to Berlin's decision to ban Russian broadcaster RT DE. Russia said it was stripping DW's staff of their accreditation. Moscow said it would stop the German channel being broadcast in Russia and start proceedings that would see it declared a "foreign agent," a designation that carries a negative Soviet-era connotation. Russian foreign ministry said that it would bar entry in Russia for German officials involved in banning of RT DE. The row between Russia and Germany has erupted amid tensions between Russia and the West over Ukraine Crisis. The strain between Germany and Russia can be first political test for news elected German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Germany's MABB media watchdog and Commission for Licensing and Supervision (ZAK) of media institutions said this week that RT DE could not broadcast in Germany using a Serbian licence, a decision that angered Russia. In a statement on its website detailing its retaliatory measures, Russia's foreign ministry described the German move to ban Russian broadcaster "unfriendly". No immediate comment from DW was forthcoming. The announcement comes amid a crackdown on media outlets Russia considers "foreign agents". It uses the term to designate foreign-funded organisations it says are engaged in political activity. (With inputs from agencies)

In retaliatory move, Russia shuts down German broadcaster DW in Moscow

<p>Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba has said Ukraine saw space for the Indian role to defuse&nbsp;the ongoing crisis in Eastern Europe. He said that "it will make an impact". India has a close relationship with Russia and US and both countries have kept New Delhi in loop amid the unfolding situation in Eastern Europe.</p>

<p>At a virtual press conference on Wednesday, foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba, in response to WION's question, said India can tell in "a very clear manner to Russia, the following, that Ukraine is a friend and a partner of India and India will find any attempt of Russia to solve the current crisis by military means or to continue to destabilize Ukraine from inside unacceptable. If Russia hears that from Indian govt, it will be a very strong message of support and it will make an impact"</p>

<p>The comments came even as India called for peaceful resolution of the situation through sustained diplomatic efforts. India, along with Gabon and Kenya had abstained from a UNSC procedural vote calling for discussion on the issue on Monday. US had led the initiative on the issue at the UNSC, which Moscow called as "megaphone diplomacy". Russia wants "security guarantees" from the West that Ukraine doesn't join NATO.</p>

<p>Asked about the Indian students in Ukraine in light of the escalating situation, FM Kuleba said, "When it comes to Indian students in Ukraine, firstly happy to receive all your compatriots they are great people and they study all across the country."</p>

<p>"We really appreciate their presence and contribution to life in Ukraine".</p>

<p>He pointed out, "I can tell them one thing, there are many many much more complicated and dangerous places across the world compared to Ukraine. They can feel safe, continue their studies and enjoy their life and be confident in the future. "</p>

<p>There are about 20,000 Indian students studying in Ukraine, mainly in the field of medicine. Indian business professionals work predominantly in the fields of pharmaceuticals, IT, engineering, medicine, education, etc.</p>

<p>‘India Club’ founded by Indian expats in 2001, actively engages the Indian diaspora in Ukraine.</p>

<p>The Indian mission recently started collecting data and details of Indians in the country in view of the ongoing situation and prepare for any eventuality.</p>


Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba has said Ukraine saw space for the Indian role to defuse the ongoing crisis in Eastern Europe. He said that "it will make an impact".

Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba has said Ukraine saw space for the Indian role to defuse the ongoing crisis in Eastern Europe. He said that "it will make an impact". India has a close relationship with Russia and US and both countries have kept New Delhi in loop amid the unfolding situation in Eastern Europe. At a virtual press conference on Wednesday, foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba, in response to WION's question, said India can tell in "a very clear manner to Russia, the following, that Ukraine is a friend and a partner of India and India will find any attempt of Russia to solve the current crisis by military means or to continue to destabilize Ukraine from inside unacceptable. If Russia hears that from Indian govt, it will be a very strong message of support and it will make an impact" The comments came even as India called for peaceful resolution of the situation through sustained diplomatic efforts. India, along with Gabon and Kenya had abstained from a UNSC procedural vote calling for discussion on the issue on Monday. US had led the initiative on the issue at the UNSC, which Moscow called as "megaphone diplomacy". Russia wants "security guarantees" from the West that Ukraine doesn't join NATO. Asked about the Indian students in Ukraine in light of the escalating situation, FM Kuleba said, "When it comes to Indian students in Ukraine, firstly happy to receive all your compatriots they are great people and they study all across the country." "We really appreciate their presence and contribution to life in Ukraine". He pointed out, "I can tell them one thing, there are many many much more complicated and dangerous places across the world compared to Ukraine. They can feel safe, continue their studies and enjoy their life and be confident in the future. " There are about 20,000 Indian students studying in Ukraine, mainly in the field of medicine. Indian business professionals work predominantly in the fields of pharmaceuticals, IT, engineering, medicine, education, etc. ‘India Club’ founded by Indian expats in 2001, actively engages the Indian diaspora in Ukraine. The Indian mission recently started collecting data and details of Indians in the country in view of the ongoing situation and prepare for any eventuality.

India's message to Russia will make impact, says Ukraine foreign minister

India has refused to pick a side in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. It abstained from a vote at the UNSC on discussing the issue. Was it the right move? Should India have taken a stand? Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Russia Vs Ukraine: India abstains from UNSC vote

<p>Russia and the United States faced off against each other in United Nations Security Council's (UNSC) session on Russia's troop buildup on Ukrainian border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US-requested meeting, which began around 1530 GMT, came with fears growing of an imminent incursion into Ukraine, despite Kremlin denials.</p>

<p>Russia has more than 100,000 of its troops stationed on Ukrainian border. On Monday, Russia contested the claim. Asking basis for reporting of such figure, Russia said that it had not cited any figure about the troop buildup.</p>

<p>Russia tried to block the 15-member Council from holding the meeting at all -- with its envoy to the UN Vasily Nebenzya accusing the United States of trying to "whip up hysteria" by pushing a Security Council debate.</p>

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<p>But Washington's UN envoy Linda Thomas-Greenfield said Moscow's troop buildup justified the move, and Russia's blocking move was rejected with 10 out of 15 members backing Washington.</p>

<p>"This is the largest... mobilization of troops in Europe in decades," the ambassador said. "And as we speak, Russia is sending even more forces and arms to join them."</p>

<p>She told the Council Russia's military buildup had been paired with "aggressive rhetoric" as part of an escalation often seen from Russia when it seized Crimea in 2014.</p>

<p>US also alleged that Russia planned to raise 30,000 troops in Belarus, a Russian ally. Russian soldiers, a fraction of the number, have already reached Belarus. Both Russia and Belarus are saying that Russian troops withhold military drills with Belarus forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia and the United States faced off against each other in United Nations Security Council's (UNSC) session on Russia's troop buildup on Ukrainian border. The US-requested meeting, which began around 1530 GMT, came with fears growing of an imminent incursion into Ukraine, despite Kremlin denials.

Russia and the United States faced off against each other in United Nations Security Council's (UNSC) session on Russia's troop buildup on Ukrainian border. The US-requested meeting, which began around 1530 GMT, came with fears growing of an imminent incursion into Ukraine, despite Kremlin denials. Russia has more than 100,000 of its troops stationed on Ukrainian border. On Monday, Russia contested the claim. Asking basis for reporting of such figure, Russia said that it had not cited any figure about the troop buildup. Russia tried to block the 15-member Council from holding the meeting at all -- with its envoy to the UN Vasily Nebenzya accusing the United States of trying to "whip up hysteria" by pushing a Security Council debate. × But Washington's UN envoy Linda Thomas-Greenfield said Moscow's troop buildup justified the move, and Russia's blocking move was rejected with 10 out of 15 members backing Washington. "This is the largest... mobilization of troops in Europe in decades," the ambassador said. "And as we speak, Russia is sending even more forces and arms to join them." She told the Council Russia's military buildup had been paired with "aggressive rhetoric" as part of an escalation often seen from Russia when it seized Crimea in 2014. US also alleged that Russia planned to raise 30,000 troops in Belarus, a Russian ally. Russian soldiers, a fraction of the number, have already reached Belarus. Both Russia and Belarus are saying that Russian troops withhold military drills with Belarus forces. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine crisis: Who says we have 100,000 troops at border? Russia asks in UNSC

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday expressed hopes that dialogue on Ukraine crisis would continue. He said he hoped that dialogue went on in order to avoid "negative scenarios" including war. he was speaking at a news conference.</p>

<p>During the news conference, Vladimir Putin raised the possibility of war between Russia and NATO if Ukraine joined the alliance and then attempted to take back Crimea from Russia by force.</p>

<p>"Let's imagine Ukraine is a NATO member and starts these military operations. Are we supposed to go to war with the NATO bloc? Has anyone given that any thought? Apparently not," he said.</p>

<p>Putin said ways were needed to be found to protect everyone's security.</p>

<p>Russia has more than 100,000 troops and military equipments stationed along its border with Ukraine. Although Russia claims that it did not intend to invade Ukraine, various statements from the Russian camp have been perceived to be an attempt to create a pretext.</p>

<p>Russia has made it clear that it was completely against Ukraine joining the NATO. Ukraine is an ex-Soviet state. In 2014, Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimean peninsula by force.</p>

<p>United Nations Security Council (UNSC) held a session to discuss Ukraine crisis on Monday. The session was held at the request of the US while Russia opposed it.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday expressed hopes that dialogue on Ukraine crisis would continue. He said he hoped that dialogue went on in order to avoid "negative scenarios" including war.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday expressed hopes that dialogue on Ukraine crisis would continue. He said he hoped that dialogue went on in order to avoid "negative scenarios" including war. he was speaking at a news conference. During the news conference, Vladimir Putin raised the possibility of war between Russia and NATO if Ukraine joined the alliance and then attempted to take back Crimea from Russia by force. "Let's imagine Ukraine is a NATO member and starts these military operations. Are we supposed to go to war with the NATO bloc? Has anyone given that any thought? Apparently not," he said. Putin said ways were needed to be found to protect everyone's security. Russia has more than 100,000 troops and military equipments stationed along its border with Ukraine. Although Russia claims that it did not intend to invade Ukraine, various statements from the Russian camp have been perceived to be an attempt to create a pretext. Russia has made it clear that it was completely against Ukraine joining the NATO. Ukraine is an ex-Soviet state. In 2014, Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimean peninsula by force. United Nations Security Council (UNSC) held a session to discuss Ukraine crisis on Monday. The session was held at the request of the US while Russia opposed it. (With inputs from agencies)

Hope dialogue on Ukraine continues, says Putin

US secretary of state Antony Blinken to hold talks with Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov today amid Moscow's escalating threat on Ukraine.

Top officials from Washington and Moscow to hold talks over Ukraine conflict

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is all set for fresh talks with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov on the Ukraine crisis. This comes a day after the two sides lashed out at each other in a heated discussion at the UNSC.

Blinken, Lavrov set for fresh talks on Ukraine crisis a day after heated UNSC exchange

Amid escalating tensions over the Ukraine conflict, top officials from Washington and Moscow will hold fresh talks today. The US secretary of state Antony Blinken will speak to his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov.

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken to speak to Sergei Lavrov

Russian soldiers have surrounded Ukraine on all sides. Moscow has moved blood supplies near Ukraine's border and boosted its troop levels. Is Vladimir Putin poised to attack Ukraine? Palki Sharma tells you more

Gravitas: Ukraine crisis: Moscow boosts troop levels around Ukrainian border

The US has received a written follow-up response from Russia. This comes after the US responded to a list of Russian demands, amid Russia's military buildup near Ukraine.

Russia sends written response to US over security demands

<p>United Nations Security Council on Monday saw a fiery session on Ukraine crisis. The session, requested by the US, was held as threat of Russian invasion against Ukraine remained high. Russian forces remain deployed along the Ukrainian border and tensions between Russia and the West are high.</p>

<p>Russia tried to block the 15-member Council from holding the meeting at all -- with its envoy to the UN Vasily Nebenzya accusing the United States of trying to "whip up hysteria" by pushing a Security Council debate.</p>

<p>But Washington's UN envoy Linda Thomas-Greenfield said Moscow's troop buildup justified the move, and Russia's blocking move was rejected with 10 out of 15 members backing Washington.</p>

<p><strong>Here are some of the major statements made by the countries during the session:</strong></p>

<p><strong>USA</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>Russia's position threatens not only Ukraine but also Europe and international order</li>
	<li>Russia is sending more forces as we speak</li>
	<li>Russia has moved 5000 troops to Belarus and evidence suggests that it intends to take this number to 30,000</li>
	<li>If Russia invades the consequences will be horrific. And we can't say that we didn't see it coming</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>Russia</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>We are not refusing to discuss the situation in Ukraine&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Deployment in our territory has happened before and hasn't caused any problem</li>
	<li>This deployment in our own territory is getting US and the western colleagues that there is a planned action.</li>
	<li>There is no proof of such a serious act (invasion).&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The Ukranians are being brain-washed.</li>
	<li>Let the Americans show us any evidence that Russia is planning to invade Ukraine</li>
	<li>Where did you get the figure of 100,000 troops? We never cited any such figure</li>
	<li>US has 750 bases in more than 80 countries. 175,000 US troops are deployed around the world. More than 60000 are in Europe.</li>
</ul>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Ukraine</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>Russian forces continue to build up at Ukrainian border&nbsp;</li>
	<li>A serious talk in security council is required more than ever to work towards descalation&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Russian military drills are taking place in Belarus &amp; Black Sea&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Militarisation in Donbass &amp; Russian involvement in it is a cause of concern&nbsp;</li>
	<li>We firmly believe in dialogue</li>
	<li>Russia should move back troops and engage in dialogue</li>
	<li>We have rights to form alliances. It is a right enshrined in many international treaties to which Russia is also a part</li>
	<li>We are ready to resume Normandy talks in all formats</li>
</ul>

<p><br />
<strong>UK</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>Today over 100,000 Russian troops are amassed with all weaponry.</li>
	<li>This is not a routine deployment. It is largest in decades.</li>
	<li>We are unwavering in our support to Ukraine.</li>
	<li>At the same time, we have called for a NATO Russia Council engagement.</li>
	<li>We are committed to a genuine dialogue.</li>
	<li>This is not a regional issue.</li>
	<li>Any invasion will be gross violation of charter.</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>Belarus</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>We have made various efforts to normalize the situation in Ukraine</li>
	<li>Belarus is willing to provide all the support to settle the dispute in Ukraine</li>
	<li>Military drills in Belarus aren't to threaten anyone</li>
</ul>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>China</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>We can't align with USA's point of view.</li>
	<li>Russia has repeatedly stated that it has no plans of any invasion and Ukraine has said there is no war.</li>
	<li>What is the basis for these countries to say there is a war?</li>
	<li>What we urgently need now is quiet diplomacy and not microphone diplomacy.</li>
	<li>China calls all parties to remain calm.</li>
	<li>NATO epitomises group politics.</li>
	<li>We need to abandon Cold War mentality.</li>
</ul>

<p><br />
<strong>Albania</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>We express our deep concerns on the build-up on the border</li>
	<li>This movement of troop and weaponry is very worrying. Especially for us in Europe.</li>
	<li>Countries shd be free to join whichever organisation they want to join</li>
	<li>Albania believes this issue shd be solved thru talks&nbsp;</li>
	<li>There are several ways to defuse the situation</li>
	<li>The instability of Ukraine will impact the whole of Europe</li>
</ul>

<p><br />
<strong>France</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>The situation on the borders is a deep concern for France</li>
	<li>It raises legitimate questions on Russia intentions, since it has infringed Ukraine territory in the past.</li>
	<li>We Call on Russia to de-escalate and engage in dialogue.</li>
	<li>We plan to take forward the Normandy Format talks in Berlin.</li>
</ul>

<p><br />
<strong>India</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>We have been closely following and all for diplomatic resolution.</li>
	<li>We have been in touch with all parties. We welcome the efforts under Normandy format and Minsk agreement.</li>
	<li>Quiet and constructive diplomacy is the need of the hour.</li>
</ul>


United Nations Security Council on Monday saw a fiery session on Ukraine crisis. The session, requested by the US, was held as threat of Russian invasion against Ukraine remained high.

United Nations Security Council on Monday saw a fiery session on Ukraine crisis. The session, requested by the US, was held as threat of Russian invasion against Ukraine remained high. Russian forces remain deployed along the Ukrainian border and tensions between Russia and the West are high. Russia tried to block the 15-member Council from holding the meeting at all -- with its envoy to the UN Vasily Nebenzya accusing the United States of trying to "whip up hysteria" by pushing a Security Council debate. But Washington's UN envoy Linda Thomas-Greenfield said Moscow's troop buildup justified the move, and Russia's blocking move was rejected with 10 out of 15 members backing Washington. Here are some of the major statements made by the countries during the session: USA Russia's position threatens not only Ukraine but also Europe and international order Russia is sending more forces as we speak Russia has moved 5000 troops to Belarus and evidence suggests that it intends to take this number to 30,000 If Russia invades the consequences will be horrific. And we can't say that we didn't see it coming Russia We are not refusing to discuss the situation in Ukraine Deployment in our territory has happened before and hasn't caused any problem This deployment in our own territory is getting US and the western colleagues that there is a planned action. There is no proof of such a serious act (invasion). The Ukranians are being brain-washed. Let the Americans show us any evidence that Russia is planning to invade Ukraine Where did you get the figure of 100,000 troops? We never cited any such figure US has 750 bases in more than 80 countries. 175,000 US troops are deployed around the world. More than 60000 are in Europe. Ukraine Russian forces continue to build up at Ukrainian border A serious talk in security council is required more than ever to work towards descalation Russian military drills are taking place in Belarus & Black Sea Militarisation in Donbass & Russian involvement in it is a cause of concern We firmly believe in dialogue Russia should move back troops and engage in dialogue We have rights to form alliances. It is a right enshrined in many international treaties to which Russia is also a part We are ready to resume Normandy talks in all formats UK Today over 100,000 Russian troops are amassed with all weaponry. This is not a routine deployment. It is largest in decades. We are unwavering in our support to Ukraine. At the same time, we have called for a NATO Russia Council engagement. We are committed to a genuine dialogue. This is not a regional issue. Any invasion will be gross violation of charter. Belarus We have made various efforts to normalize the situation in Ukraine Belarus is willing to provide all the support to settle the dispute in Ukraine Military drills in Belarus aren't to threaten anyone China We can't align with USA's point of view. Russia has repeatedly stated that it has no plans of any invasion and Ukraine has said there is no war. What is the basis for these countries to say there is a war? What we urgently need now is quiet diplomacy and not microphone diplomacy. China calls all parties to remain calm. NATO epitomises group politics. We need to abandon Cold War mentality. Albania We express our deep concerns on the build-up on the border This movement of troop and weaponry is very worrying. Especially for us in Europe. Countries shd be free to join whichever organisation they want to join Albania believes this issue shd be solved thru talks There are several ways to defuse the situation The instability of Ukraine will impact the whole of Europe France The situation on the borders is a deep concern for France It raises legitimate questions on Russia intentions, since it has infringed Ukraine territory in the past. We Call on Russia to de-escalate and engage in dialogue. We plan to take forward the Normandy Format talks in Berlin. India We have been closely following and all for diplomatic resolution. We have been in touch with all parties. We welcome the efforts under Normandy format and Minsk agreement. Quiet and constructive diplomacy is the need of the hour.

UNSC session on Ukraine crisis: Who said what

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