Kyiv, Ukraine
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Ukraine’s membership in NATO is “possible,” but Kyiv must work hard to convince allies to make it a reality, President Volodymyr Zelensky said during a speech to Ukrainian diplomats on Sunday (22 December).
“We all understand that Ukraine's invitation to Nato and membership in the alliance can only be a political decision,” Zelensky said at the gathering in Kyiv. He added, “Alliance for Ukraine is achievable, but it is achievable only if we fight for this decision at all the necessary levels.”
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/they-will-regret-putin-vows-destruction-on-ukraine-after-drone-attack-in-kazan-786010" target="_blank">Putin vows 'destruction' on Ukraine after drone attack in Kazan</a>
Zelensky underscored the importance of showing NATO allies how Ukraine’s inclusion would contribute to the alliance and help stabilise global relations.
His comments came as Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened more “destruction” in Ukraine following a drone attack on the Russian city of Kazan. In a televised government meeting on Sunday, Putin said, “Whoever, and however much they try to destroy, they will face many times more destruction themselves and will regret what they are trying to do in our country.”
Putin also held talks with Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico, marking a rare visit by an EU and NATO leader to Moscow.
Ukraine has long called for NATO to invite it into the alliance. While NATO has affirmed that Ukraine will join eventually, no timeline or formal invitation has been extended.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-accuses-panama-of-ripping-off-the-us-with-excessive-fees-threatens-to-take-back-control-786029" target="_blank">Trump calls Panama Canal fees 'ridiculous', threatens to take back control</a>
Zelensky has previously suggested that NATO membership could initially apply to territories not occupied by Russia, potentially helping to end the active phase of the war. After recent discussions with NATO and EU leaders in Brussels, he said that European commitments to Ukraine’s defence would “not be sufficient” without the involvement of the United States.
Following the Brussels meetings, Zelensky described NATO as Ukraine’s “true guarantee” against Moscow. He said that there's a growing understanding among allies of the threat posed by Putin, adding, “There is some political will and understanding that Putin is dangerous … and total understanding that he will not stop in Ukraine.”
(With inputs from agencies)

“We all understand that Ukraine's invitation to Nato and membership in the alliance can only be a political decision,” Zelensky said at the gathering in Kyiv. He added, “Alliance for Ukraine is achievable, but it is achievable only if we fight for this decision at all the necessary levels.”



Kyiv, Ukraine Ukraine’s membership in NATO is “possible,” but Kyiv must work hard to convince allies to make it a reality, President Volodymyr Zelensky said during a speech to Ukrainian diplomats on Sunday (22 December). “We all understand that Ukraine's invitation to Nato and membership in the alliance can only be a political decision,” Zelensky said at the gathering in Kyiv. He added, “Alliance for Ukraine is achievable, but it is achievable only if we fight for this decision at all the necessary levels.” Also read: Putin vows 'destruction' on Ukraine after drone attack in Kazan Zelensky underscored the importance of showing NATO allies how Ukraine’s inclusion would contribute to the alliance and help stabilise global relations. His comments came as Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened more “destruction” in Ukraine following a drone attack on the Russian city of Kazan. In a televised government meeting on Sunday, Putin said, “Whoever, and however much they try to destroy, they will face many times more destruction themselves and will regret what they are trying to do in our country.” Putin also held talks with Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico, marking a rare visit by an EU and NATO leader to Moscow. Ukraine has long called for NATO to invite it into the alliance. While NATO has affirmed that Ukraine will join eventually, no timeline or formal invitation has been extended. Also read: Trump calls Panama Canal fees 'ridiculous', threatens to take back control Zelensky has previously suggested that NATO membership could initially apply to territories not occupied by Russia, potentially helping to end the active phase of the war. After recent discussions with NATO and EU leaders in Brussels, he said that European commitments to Ukraine’s defence would “not be sufficient” without the involvement of the United States. Following the Brussels meetings, Zelensky described NATO as Ukraine’s “true guarantee” against Moscow. He said that there's a growing understanding among allies of the threat posed by Putin, adding, “There is some political will and understanding that Putin is dangerous … and total understanding that he will not stop in Ukraine.” (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky says Ukraine’s NATO membership is ‘achievable’ but diplomats need to fight for it

Kyiv, Ukraine
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Saturday he had met the US CIA director William Burns in Ukraine, a rare public disclosure of a meeting between the pair amid Russia's invasion.
The United States has been Ukraine's most important financial and military backer in the almost three years since Moscow invaded, and Washington is also reported to have routinely shared military intelligence with Ukraine to support its defence.
Zelensky said he had met CIA director Burns on multiple occasions throughout the war, but their meetings had been undisclosed.
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"Bill Burns paid his last visit to Ukraine as CIA Director," Zelensky said in a post on Telegram.
"He and I have had many meetings during this war, and I am grateful for his help," he added.
"Usually, such meetings are not publicly reported, and all our meetings -- in Ukraine, in other European countries, in America, and in other parts of the world -- were held without official information," Zelensky said.
Burns is set to leave the powerful post of CIA chief as US President-elect Donald Trump brings in his own candidate.
The last confirmed meeting between Zelensky and Burns was in mid-2023, according to US officials who announced in July 2023 that Burns had paid a recent secret trip to Ukraine.
Zelensky on Saturday posted a photo of him shaking hands with Burns in front of a state crest of Ukraine. He did not say when the meeting took place, but said it would be the pair's final before Burns leaves the post.
The meeting comes at a critical time in the war, one month before Trump comes to power.
The Republican has pledged to end the war in a matter of hours, stoking fears Kyiv could be forced to accept peace on terms favourable to Moscow
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The United States has been Ukraine's most important financial and military backer in the almost three years since Moscow invaded, and Washington is also reported to have routinely shared military intelligence with Ukraine to support its defence.



Kyiv, Ukraine Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Saturday he had met the US CIA director William Burns in Ukraine, a rare public disclosure of a meeting between the pair amid Russia's invasion. The United States has been Ukraine's most important financial and military backer in the almost three years since Moscow invaded, and Washington is also reported to have routinely shared military intelligence with Ukraine to support its defence. Zelensky said he had met CIA director Burns on multiple occasions throughout the war, but their meetings had been undisclosed. Also read: Outgoing US President Biden signs US funding bill to avert government shutdown "Bill Burns paid his last visit to Ukraine as CIA Director," Zelensky said in a post on Telegram. "He and I have had many meetings during this war, and I am grateful for his help," he added. "Usually, such meetings are not publicly reported, and all our meetings -- in Ukraine, in other European countries, in America, and in other parts of the world -- were held without official information," Zelensky said. Burns is set to leave the powerful post of CIA chief as US President-elect Donald Trump brings in his own candidate. The last confirmed meeting between Zelensky and Burns was in mid-2023, according to US officials who announced in July 2023 that Burns had paid a recent secret trip to Ukraine. Zelensky on Saturday posted a photo of him shaking hands with Burns in front of a state crest of Ukraine. He did not say when the meeting took place, but said it would be the pair's final before Burns leaves the post. The meeting comes at a critical time in the war, one month before Trump comes to power. The Republican has pledged to end the war in a matter of hours, stoking fears Kyiv could be forced to accept peace on terms favourable to Moscow Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'Grateful for his help,' Ukraine’s Zelensky discloses final meeting with CIA director Burns

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Saturday he had met the US CIA director William Burns in Ukraine, a rare public disclosure of a meeting between the pair amid Russia's invasion.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Saturday he had met the US CIA director William Burns in Ukraine, a rare public disclosure of a meeting between the pair amid Russia's invasion. The United States has been Ukraine's most important financial and military backer in the almost three years since Moscow invaded, and Washington is also reported to have routinely shared military intelligence with Ukraine to support its defence. Zelensky said he had met CIA director Burns on multiple occasions throughout the war, but their meetings had been undisclosed. Also read: Outgoing US President Biden signs US funding bill to avert government shutdown "Bill Burns paid his last visit to Ukraine as CIA Director," Zelensky said in a post on Telegram. "He and I have had many meetings during this war, and I am grateful for his help," he added. "Usually, such meetings are not publicly reported, and all our meetings -- in Ukraine, in other European countries, in America, and in other parts of the world -- were held without official information," Zelensky said. Burns is set to leave the powerful post of CIA chief as US President-elect Donald Trump brings in his own candidate. The last confirmed meeting between Zelensky and Burns was in mid-2023, according to US officials who announced in July 2023 that Burns had paid a recent secret trip to Ukraine. Zelensky on Saturday posted a photo of him shaking hands with Burns in front of a state crest of Ukraine. He did not say when the meeting took place, but said it would be the pair's final before Burns leaves the post. The meeting comes at a critical time in the war, one month before Trump comes to power. The Republican has pledged to end the war in a matter of hours, stoking fears Kyiv could be forced to accept peace on terms favourable to Moscow Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ukraine will not lower the age for drafting soldiers for the war against Russia, despite calls from key ally the United States, a senior official told AFP Thursday.

Ukraine will not lower the age for drafting soldiers for the war against Russia, despite calls from key ally the United States, a senior official told AFP Thursday. Washington is pressing Kyiv to consider drafting men from the age of 18 instead of the current 25, to plug manpower shortages on the frontlines. "Our position is as transparent as possible: we will not lower the mobilisation age," the official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AFP. Also read: Syrian conflict: Rebel factions enter Hama, oust pro-govt forces from key city Mobilisation is a very sensitive topic inside Ukraine. Army recruiters prowl the streets of major cities and have conducted raids on restaurants and bars in Kyiv to check whether fighting-age men have registered with the military authorities. Zelensky this year lowered the minimum age at which men can be drafted from 27 to 25 but is resisting calls to go further. Last month, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said Ukraine "needs to do more, in our view, to firm up its lines in terms of the number of forces it has on the front lines." A senior official from outgoing US President Joe Biden's administration said in November Ukraine was facing an "existential" recruitment crunch. Pressed on what Washington considers an appropriate minimum age for conscription, the official replied that "we think there's real value in them considering lowering the recruiting age to 18" -- in line with the US benchmark. The official spoke on condition of anonymity. Kyiv is instead pushing the West to give it more and better weapons to defend against the Russian invasion. Watch: France In Political Crisis After No-confidence Vote Topples Government "The army must be technologically advanced and have enough weapons. We will not compensate, for example, for the lack of weapons or their range with the youth of the guys," the Ukrainian official told AFP. "This is not the First World War, but a modern technological war," the official added, accusing Washington of trying to "shift the responsibility to Ukraine" over delays in arms supplies. The debate comes as Russian troops accelerate an advance on the battlefield in the east and as both sides try to secure an upper hand before US president-elect Donald Trump takes office in January. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'This is not World War 1,' Ukraine snubs US call to lower draft age: Report

Russia launched its second major attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure this month on Thursday (Nov. 28), leaving over one million people without power across three western regions, according to Ukrainian officials.

Russia launched its second major attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure this month on Thursday (Nov. 28), leaving over one million people without power across three western regions, according to Ukrainian officials. "Energy infrastructure is once again targeted by the enemy's massive strike," Ukrainian Energy Minister German Galushchenko stated on Facebook. He added, "As soon as the security situation will allow it, the consequences [of the strikes] will be specified." "In several regions, strikes with cluster munitions were recorded, and they targeted civilian infrastructure," Zelensky said on social media. "This is a very despicable escalation of Russian terrorist tactics," Zelensky added. Also read: Putin orders Satan II to be ready to deploy for nuclear war. What is it? Andriy Yermak, Chief of Staff to President Volodymyr Zelensky, condemned the attacks, accusing Russia of continuing its "tactics of terror." Yermak said on Telegram, "They stockpiled missiles for attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure, for warfare against civilians during... winter," and assured that Ukraine would respond. Emergency power cuts were introduced by the national grid operator Ukrenergo due to the strikes, according to Galushchenko. Private power company DTEK reported outages affecting the capital Kyiv, as well as Odesa, Dnipropetrovsk, and Donetsk regions. Ukraine's energy infrastructure has been a frequent target since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. Kyiv has accused Moscow of using "terror" tactics by trying to plunge cities into darkness and cut off heating to civilians during winter. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Russian Forces Pushing Towards Pokrovsk & Kurakhov This latest wave of strikes follows weeks of intensified conflict, with both sides deploying new weapons to gain an advantage. Earlier this week, Russia vowed retaliation for Ukrainian strikes on its territory using US-supplied ATACMS missiles. Ukraine has reportedly used these long-range missiles at least three times since receiving approval from Washington to target deeper into Russian territory. Following an initial strike, Moscow retaliated by launching a ballistic missile at the Ukrainian city of Dnipro. Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a public address, warned that nuclear-capable, intermediate-range missiles could be used against Western countries if their weapons were deployed by Ukraine to attack Russia. Russia’s defence ministry reported on Thursday that it had intercepted 25 Ukrainian drones overnight, including 14 over the southern Krasnodar region. This escalation comes just a day after former US President Donald Trump appointed retired general and loyalist Keith Kellogg as his Ukraine envoy, tasked with negotiating an end to the Russian invasion. (With inputs from agencies)

'Despicable escalation,' Russian strikes on Ukrainian power grid knock out power for 1 million

Ukrainians who had abandoned&nbsp;regions under Russian cotrol and sought to&nbsp;build a new new life in places still under Kyiv's control, are now returning to their original homes. Critics say this is because of Ukraine's failure to provide them with housing and social assistance, The Times reported.

As per Maksym Tkachenko, an MP from President Volodymyr Zelensky’s ruling party, nearly 150,000 people have quit efforts to start afresh in Ukraine and are left with no option but to return to their hometowns.

“They have not received enough assistance from the state — no housing, no social support, compensation [for losses], work,” Tkachenko told the Ukrinform website.&nbsp;

He further alleged that internally displaced Ukrainians were also facing "discrimination" and "scepticism" in their efforts to get jobs.

However, he soon retracted the statistics. "There is no such data. This was my baseless and emotional assumption,” he said.

Notably, Tkachenko was not the only one to claim that Ukrainians were returning to Moscow-controlled regions. Petro Andryushchenko, an adviser to the exiled mayor of Mariupol, earlier said that at least 50,000 people had returned to the port city which was captured by Russia in 2022.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-sustained-almost-65k-casualties-from-russias-battlegroup-north-says-report-779050">Kyiv sustained almost 65k casualties from Russia's Battlegroup North, says report</a>

However, he clarified that it was only because people "didn't have enough money" and had "nothing to do with pro-Russian ideology."

"People simply have nowhere to live. If they work, there is not enough money to pay the rent," he said. "They are forced to return. This has nothing to do with."

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Moscow has also changed the rules regarding registration of properties in regions controlled by it. Andryushchenko wrote on Telegram that thousands of others went to Mariupol to re-register their ownership of properties as per the new rules, and later left.

After taking control of Mariupol Russia had said it would “nationalise” private property if people didn't show relevant documents to occupying Kremlin forces in person.

Last month, Olena Shuliak, the head of Zelensky’s Servant of the People party, admitted that efforts to to support internally displaced people had “completely failed”. As per the World Bank, it will cost $150 billion to restore houses in Ukraine. Shuliak says, based on current funding levels, the work would take 1,575 years. 
&nbsp;

Ukrainians who had abandoned regions under Russian cotrol and sought to build a new new life in places still under Kyiv's control, are now returning to their original homes.

Ukrainians who had abandoned regions under Russian cotrol and sought to build a new new life in places still under Kyiv's control, are now returning to their original homes. Critics say this is because of Ukraine's failure to provide them with housing and social assistance, The Times reported. As per Maksym Tkachenko, an MP from President Volodymyr Zelensky’s ruling party, nearly 150,000 people have quit efforts to start afresh in Ukraine and are left with no option but to return to their hometowns. “They have not received enough assistance from the state — no housing, no social support, compensation [for losses], work,” Tkachenko told the Ukrinform website. He further alleged that internally displaced Ukrainians were also facing "discrimination" and "scepticism" in their efforts to get jobs. However, he soon retracted the statistics. "There is no such data. This was my baseless and emotional assumption,” he said. Notably, Tkachenko was not the only one to claim that Ukrainians were returning to Moscow-controlled regions. Petro Andryushchenko, an adviser to the exiled mayor of Mariupol, earlier said that at least 50,000 people had returned to the port city which was captured by Russia in 2022. Also Read: Kyiv sustained almost 65k casualties from Russia's Battlegroup North, says report However, he clarified that it was only because people "didn't have enough money" and had "nothing to do with pro-Russian ideology." "People simply have nowhere to live. If they work, there is not enough money to pay the rent," he said. "They are forced to return. This has nothing to do with." × Moscow has also changed the rules regarding registration of properties in regions controlled by it. Andryushchenko wrote on Telegram that thousands of others went to Mariupol to re-register their ownership of properties as per the new rules, and later left. After taking control of Mariupol Russia had said it would “nationalise” private property if people didn't show relevant documents to occupying Kremlin forces in person. Last month, Olena Shuliak, the head of Zelensky’s Servant of the People party, admitted that efforts to to support internally displaced people had “completely failed”. As per the World Bank, it will cost $150 billion to restore houses in Ukraine. Shuliak says, based on current funding levels, the work would take 1,575 years.

Ukrainians returning to Russian-held areas after Kyiv failed to help them rebuild lives: Report

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Friday urged Russian President Vladimir&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;to engage in peace talks with Ukraine, in the first call between the leaders in almost two years.

In the call, Scholz "condemned Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine and called on President&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;to end it and withdraw troops", the chancellor's spokesman Steffen Hebestreit said.

The German leader "urged Russia to show willingness to negotiate with Ukraine with the aim of achieving a just and lasting peace", Hebestreit added in a statement.

Scholz also stressed "Germany's unwavering determination to support Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression for as long as necessary".

The call comes at a crucial juncture in the war. Ukrainian troops are coming under pressure and the election of Donald Trump in the United States has cast doubt over Washington's continued support for Kyiv.

The call between the two leaders was the first time they have been in contact since December 2022. The conversation lasted "for an hour", a German government source told AFP.

Scholz "particularly condemned the Russian air strikes against civilian infrastructure in Ukraine", said a government source.

"He made it clear that sending North Korean soldiers to Russia for combat missions against Ukraine would lead to a serious escalation and expansion of the conflict," the source added.

The Kremlin, in its readout of the conversation, said the two leaders had had a "frank exchange of views", adding that the call had been initiated by Germany.

"Possible agreements should take into account the security interests of the Russian Federation, proceed from the new territorial realities and, most importantly, address the root causes of the conflict," the Kremlin added.

<h2>Limited contact</h2>

Before picking up the phone to&nbsp;Putin, Scholz spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Hebestreit said.&nbsp;

The German and Ukrainian leaders spoke "beforehand and will do so again after the conversation with the Russian president", the spokesman said.

Launched in February 2022, Russia's full-scale of invasion of Ukraine is headed into its third winter, with Kyiv's troops increasingly on the back foot.&nbsp;

Germany has been one of Ukraine's biggest military supporters, second only to the United States in the aid it has sent to Kyiv.&nbsp;

But the election of Trump, who criticised aid to Ukraine on the campaign trail, has called into question Washington's continued support.

Scholz's December 2022 call with&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;was the last known phone call between the Kremlin chief and the leader of a major Western country.

Putin&nbsp;has not spoken to most NATO and Western leaders since 2022, when the EU and the US imposed massive sanctions on Russia for launching its shock Ukraine offensive.

Within the NATO bloc,&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;maintains contact with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban –&nbsp;who is critical of Western policy on Russia –&nbsp;and with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/public-health-catastrophe-critics-react-as-trump-picks-rfk-jr-for-top-health-post-776524">'Public health catastrophe,' critics react as Trump picks RFK Jr. for top health post</a>

Putin&nbsp;has not met other Western leaders in person since days before launching the offensive in February 2022, when a flurry of Western officials visited Moscow in a bid to deter the Kremlin chief from attacking Ukraine.

He will skip a meeting of G20 leaders in Brazil next week, which Scholz will attend, on the grounds that his presence would "wreck" the gathering.

Putin&nbsp;denied an International Criminal Court warrant out against him, for Russia's actions in Ukraine, was a factor in his decision to steer clear of the summit, where Moscow will be represented by Russia's foreign minister.

The German and Russian leaders "agreed to remain in contact", the German government source added.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Friday urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to engage in peace talks with Ukraine, in the first call between the leaders in almost two years.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Friday urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to engage in peace talks with Ukraine, in the first call between the leaders in almost two years. In the call, Scholz "condemned Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine and called on President Putin to end it and withdraw troops", the chancellor's spokesman Steffen Hebestreit said. The German leader "urged Russia to show willingness to negotiate with Ukraine with the aim of achieving a just and lasting peace", Hebestreit added in a statement. Scholz also stressed "Germany's unwavering determination to support Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression for as long as necessary". The call comes at a crucial juncture in the war. Ukrainian troops are coming under pressure and the election of Donald Trump in the United States has cast doubt over Washington's continued support for Kyiv. The call between the two leaders was the first time they have been in contact since December 2022. The conversation lasted "for an hour", a German government source told AFP. Scholz "particularly condemned the Russian air strikes against civilian infrastructure in Ukraine", said a government source. "He made it clear that sending North Korean soldiers to Russia for combat missions against Ukraine would lead to a serious escalation and expansion of the conflict," the source added. The Kremlin, in its readout of the conversation, said the two leaders had had a "frank exchange of views", adding that the call had been initiated by Germany. "Possible agreements should take into account the security interests of the Russian Federation, proceed from the new territorial realities and, most importantly, address the root causes of the conflict," the Kremlin added. Limited contact Before picking up the phone to Putin, Scholz spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Hebestreit said. The German and Ukrainian leaders spoke "beforehand and will do so again after the conversation with the Russian president", the spokesman said. Launched in February 2022, Russia's full-scale of invasion of Ukraine is headed into its third winter, with Kyiv's troops increasingly on the back foot. Germany has been one of Ukraine's biggest military supporters, second only to the United States in the aid it has sent to Kyiv. But the election of Trump, who criticised aid to Ukraine on the campaign trail, has called into question Washington's continued support. Scholz's December 2022 call with Putin was the last known phone call between the Kremlin chief and the leader of a major Western country. Putin has not spoken to most NATO and Western leaders since 2022, when the EU and the US imposed massive sanctions on Russia for launching its shock Ukraine offensive. Within the NATO bloc, Putin maintains contact with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban – who is critical of Western policy on Russia – and with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Also read: 'Public health catastrophe,' critics react as Trump picks RFK Jr. for top health post Putin has not met other Western leaders in person since days before launching the offensive in February 2022, when a flurry of Western officials visited Moscow in a bid to deter the Kremlin chief from attacking Ukraine. He will skip a meeting of G20 leaders in Brazil next week, which Scholz will attend, on the grounds that his presence would "wreck" the gathering. Putin denied an International Criminal Court warrant out against him, for Russia's actions in Ukraine, was a factor in his decision to steer clear of the summit, where Moscow will be represented by Russia's foreign minister. The German and Russian leaders "agreed to remain in contact", the German government source added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

In rare call, German Chancellor Scholz urges Putin to end Ukraine war, warns of escalation risks

North Korean troops are poised to be deployed by Russia on the battlefield in Ukraine as early as this weekend, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;claimed Friday.

Western officials have warned that such a development would stoke the almost three-year war and bring geopolitical consequences as far away as the Indo-Pacific region.

Zelensky&nbsp;said Ukrainian intelligence had determined that “the first North Korean military will be used by Russia in combat zones” between Sunday and Monday.

He said on Telegram that the deployment was “an obvious escalating move by Russia.” He didn't provide any further details, including where the North Korean soldiers may be sent.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-china-to-complete-disengagement-at-two-friction-points-by-oct-28-29-770676">India, China to complete disengagement at two friction points by Oct 28-29</a>

Russia has been conducting a ferocious summer campaign along the eastern front in Ukraine, gradually compelling Kyiv to give up ground. But Russia has struggled to push Ukrainian forces out of its Kursk border region following an incursion almost three months ago.

The deployment of North Korean forces under a military pact between Moscow and Pyongyang brings a new dimension to the conflict, which is Europe's biggest war since World War II and has cost tens of thousands of lives on both sides, including many civilians.

The US said Wednesday that 3,000 North Korean troops have been deployed to Russia and are training at several locations, calling the move very serious.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kurdish-rebel-group-pkk-claims-to-carry-attack-on-turkish-defence-firm-killing-5-people-770683">Kurdish rebel group PKK claims to carry attack on Turkish defence firm</a>

Zelensky&nbsp;said a week ago that his government has intelligence information that 10,000 troops from North Korea are being readied to join Russian forces fighting against his country. He said that a third nation wading into the hostilities would turn the conflict into a “world war.”&nbsp;

North Korea had already been supplying ammunition to Russia under a defence pact, but putting boots on the ground could complicate a war that has divided international politics, with most Western countries supporting Kyiv.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, meanwhile, has looked for support among BRICS countries.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.

North Korean troops are poised to be deployed by Russia on the battlefield in Ukraine as early as this weekend, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed Friday.

North Korean troops are poised to be deployed by Russia on the battlefield in Ukraine as early as this weekend, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed Friday. Western officials have warned that such a development would stoke the almost three-year war and bring geopolitical consequences as far away as the Indo-Pacific region. Zelensky said Ukrainian intelligence had determined that “the first North Korean military will be used by Russia in combat zones” between Sunday and Monday. He said on Telegram that the deployment was “an obvious escalating move by Russia.” He didn't provide any further details, including where the North Korean soldiers may be sent. Also Read | India, China to complete disengagement at two friction points by Oct 28-29 Russia has been conducting a ferocious summer campaign along the eastern front in Ukraine, gradually compelling Kyiv to give up ground. But Russia has struggled to push Ukrainian forces out of its Kursk border region following an incursion almost three months ago. The deployment of North Korean forces under a military pact between Moscow and Pyongyang brings a new dimension to the conflict, which is Europe's biggest war since World War II and has cost tens of thousands of lives on both sides, including many civilians. The US said Wednesday that 3,000 North Korean troops have been deployed to Russia and are training at several locations, calling the move very serious. Also Read | Kurdish rebel group PKK claims to carry attack on Turkish defence firm Zelensky said a week ago that his government has intelligence information that 10,000 troops from North Korea are being readied to join Russian forces fighting against his country. He said that a third nation wading into the hostilities would turn the conflict into a “world war.” North Korea had already been supplying ammunition to Russia under a defence pact, but putting boots on the ground could complicate a war that has divided international politics, with most Western countries supporting Kyiv. Russian President Vladimir Putin, meanwhile, has looked for support among BRICS countries. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ukraine’s President Zelensky claims Russia will deploy North Korean troops shortly 

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Friday (Oct 18) that he would not be attending the upcoming G20 summit in Brazil in November, explaining that his presence would disrupt the event.

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Friday (Oct 18) that he would not be attending the upcoming G20 summit in Brazil in November, explaining that his presence would disrupt the event. He downplayed the role of the International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant issued against him, saying, “that rulings of this type can be got around very easily." During a conversation with a reporter in Moscow, ahead of the BRICS summit in Russia, Putin confirmed his decision to skip the G20 gathering. “So what, I would go there specially in order to disrupt the normal work of this forum?” the Russian president said, adding that if he attended "the conversations would only be about this." "We would basically wreck the work of the G-20, why?" he asked. Putin assured that Russia would still be well-represented at the summit. “We are adults, so we will find someone in Russia who will worthily present the interests of our country in Brazil,” he stated. Also read: Biden says Western nations must sustain support 'until Ukraine wins'; receives Germany’s highest honour He also dismissed concerns about being arrested if he travelled to Brazil, mentioning the strong relationship between the two nations. “Russia and Brazil have very warm, good relations,” he said, further adding that a government agreement could easily prevent any complications. "Therefore when it comes down to it, it’s enough to write an intergovernmental agreement and nobody is placed in a difficult position." Earlier this week, Ukraine's chief prosecutor claimed to have received information that suggested Putin might attend the summit, urging Brazilian authorities to execute the ICC's arrest warrant if he did. In March 2023, the ICC issued an arrest warrant for Putin, accusing him of war crimes related to the deportation of children following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. However, Moscow has repeatedly denied any involvement in war crimes, and the Kremlin has dismissed the warrant as having no legal standing. Although Putin was able to visit Mongolia in September without any issues, despite the country's obligation as an ICC member to arrest him, he chose not to attend the BRICS meeting in South Africa earlier this year. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin to skip G20: Claims attending would ‘wreck’ the summit, downplays ICC arrest warrant

United States President Joe Biden met with his German counterpart Frank-Walter Steinmeier at Bellevue Palace in Berlin on Friday (Oct 18). Biden arrived in Germany on Thursday, after rescheduling a visit last week to oversee the response to Hurricane Milton which had impacted US several states.

United States President Joe Biden met with his German counterpart Frank-Walter Steinmeier at Bellevue Palace in Berlin on Friday (Oct 18). Biden arrived in Germany on Thursday, after rescheduling a visit last week to oversee the response to Hurricane Milton which had impacted US several states. This is the first official state visit by an American president since the German reunification. In Germany, Biden called on NATO allies to continue supporting Ukraine amid its war with Russia as he began a farewell visit to Berlin on Friday, just weeks ahead of the presidential elections in the US. Kyiv and its Western allies are concerned that a potential return of Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump to the White House could lead to a decrease in US military aid. Therefore, Biden stressed that Western nations must "sustain our support ... until Ukraine wins a just and sustainable peace." "We're headed into a very difficult winter. We cannot let up," he said. On Thursday, Steinmeier presented Biden with the highest class of the Grand Cross of the Order of Merit, Germany's top federal honour reserved for heads of state. During a speech at Bellevue Palace, Steinmeier expressed gratitude to the US president for his decades of support for Germany, Europe, and the transatlantic partnership, dating back to Biden’s first visit to the country 44 years ago. "Mr. President, we have known that you have been interested in Germany for half a century. Germany in turn is deeply grateful to you," the German president said. He also noted that under Biden’s leadership, the transatlantic alliance has become "stronger than ever." "For Germany, friendship with the US was, is and always will be existentially important, both for our security and our democracy, even when there are times of disagreement," he added. Also read: Kremlin says all okay after Putin’s comments on live TV fuel health rumours After receiving the Order of Merit, President Biden reflected on his long-standing relationship with Germany. He reminisced about his initial visit to the country as a young senator when Berlin, Germany, and Europe were divided. "The times I have lived through have taught me that history does move forward, and things can get better. We should never underestimate the power of democracy, the value of alliances," Biden said. "Germany has taught us that change is possible. Countries can and do choose their own destinies. I thank the current leaders of Germany for the choices they’ve made," he added. Speaking to reporters during US President Joe Biden's visit, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said, "We are supporting Ukraine as powerfully as we can and at the same time we are making sure that NATO does not become a party to the war, so that this war does not turn into an even bigger catastrophe." Later, French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer are expected to join Biden and Scholz for further discussions. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden says Western nations must sustain support 'until Ukraine wins'; receives Germany’s highest honour

Russian airstrikes overnight and into the early hours targeted civilian and critical infrastructure across Ukraine, leaving at least seven people injured, authorities reported on Thursday (Oct 10).

Russian airstrikes overnight and into the early hours targeted civilian and critical infrastructure across Ukraine, leaving at least seven people injured, authorities reported on Thursday (Oct 10). Zaporizhzhia hit by guided bombs, leaving six injured In the southeastern city of Zaporizhzhia, guided bombs launched by Russia early in the morning wounded six people, including a 17-year-old girl, according to regional governor Ivan Fedorov. The strikes also caused damage to 29 buildings. Zaporizhzhia has faced repeated bombing in recent weeks, as Russian forces hold partial control over the surrounding area, which also hosts Europe's largest nuclear power plant, currently under Russian control. Also read: ‘It needs to go’: Tim Walz calls for scrapping of electoral college system Ukraine's air force announced on the Telegram platform that it successfully shot down 41 out of 62 drones launched by Russia. Additionally, eight missiles were fired, while 14 drones reportedly went "locationally lost." "As a result of the Russian missile and drone attacks civilian objects and critical infrastructure facilities in the Odesa, Poltava and Donetsk regions were hit," the Air Force statement said. Also read: IS-linked 5 Arab Israelis arrested for plotting car-bombing in Tel Aviv mall Drone attack in Kryvyi Rih injures two, damages residential building In Kryvyi Rih, the hometown of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, a drone strike injured two people and damaged a five-storey residential building, leading to a fire, according to Dnipropetrovsk regional governor Serhiy Lysak. Emergency services managed to rescue seven people from the damaged section of the building and extinguish the fire. The statement from the air force reiterated the impact on civilian and critical infrastructure in several regions, with attacks causing destruction and fires in multiple areas. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia hit by Russian airstrikes: Bombs injure six, including teen girl

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;has announced that he will present his country’s "victory plan" at an upcoming meeting of Kyiv’s supporters in Ramstein, Germany next week, Saturday (Oct 12).

While specific details of the plan have not been disclosed publicly, it has already been shared with United States President Joe Biden and the candidates running in the&nbsp;US presidential election. The meeting, to be held at the US airbase in Ramstein, close to Frankfurt, will bring together more than 50 of Ukraine's allies, including Biden himself.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-agencies-warn-of-threats-on-upcoming-first-anniversary-of-gaza-war-764713">US agencies warn of threats on upcoming first anniversary of Gaza war</a>

“We are preparing for the 25th Ramstein meeting on October 12, which will be the first to take place at the leaders' level,” Zelensky&nbsp;said in a post&nbsp;Telegram, on Saturday (Oct 5). He added that he would outline “clear, concrete steps towards a just end of the war,” stressing that Russia can be stopped by “the determination of our partners and the strengthening of Ukraine.”

Kyiv has referenced this plan multiple times over recent months as the war with Russian forces, which invaded Ukraine nearly 1,000 days ago, continues. According to a US State Department spokesperson, the plan includes "a number of productive steps" that the US intends to discuss with Ukraine.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-unsure-whether-netanyahu-delaying-peace-gaza-deal-to-influence-us-elections-764783">Biden unsure whether Netanyahu delaying Gaza deal to influence US elections</a>

However, a report by the Wall Street Journal, citing unnamed US officials, claims the plan does not offer a full strategy for defeating Russian forces. Instead, it reiterates Ukraine’s requests for additional weapons and permission to strike targets inside Russia using Western long-range weaponry.

At the last Ramstein meeting in September, Zelensky&nbsp;asked for more military aid to fend off Russian advances.

The&nbsp;upcoming meeting in Germany comes at a crucial time for Ukraine, just ahead of the US election in November, which could potentially affect the support Kyiv receives from its key ally.

Republican candidate Donald Trump has been openly critical of the large sums of money the US has provided to Ukraine and has echoed some of the narratives Russia has promoted about the conflict.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that he will present his country’s "victory plan" at an upcoming meeting of Kyiv’s supporters in Ramstein, Germany next week, Saturday (Oct 12).

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that he will present his country’s "victory plan" at an upcoming meeting of Kyiv’s supporters in Ramstein, Germany next week, Saturday (Oct 12). While specific details of the plan have not been disclosed publicly, it has already been shared with United States President Joe Biden and the candidates running in the US presidential election. The meeting, to be held at the US airbase in Ramstein, close to Frankfurt, will bring together more than 50 of Ukraine's allies, including Biden himself. Also read: US agencies warn of threats on upcoming first anniversary of Gaza war “We are preparing for the 25th Ramstein meeting on October 12, which will be the first to take place at the leaders' level,” Zelensky said in a post Telegram, on Saturday (Oct 5). He added that he would outline “clear, concrete steps towards a just end of the war,” stressing that Russia can be stopped by “the determination of our partners and the strengthening of Ukraine.” Kyiv has referenced this plan multiple times over recent months as the war with Russian forces, which invaded Ukraine nearly 1,000 days ago, continues. According to a US State Department spokesperson, the plan includes "a number of productive steps" that the US intends to discuss with Ukraine. Also read: Biden unsure whether Netanyahu delaying Gaza deal to influence US elections However, a report by the Wall Street Journal, citing unnamed US officials, claims the plan does not offer a full strategy for defeating Russian forces. Instead, it reiterates Ukraine’s requests for additional weapons and permission to strike targets inside Russia using Western long-range weaponry. At the last Ramstein meeting in September, Zelensky asked for more military aid to fend off Russian advances. The upcoming meeting in Germany comes at a crucial time for Ukraine, just ahead of the US election in November, which could potentially affect the support Kyiv receives from its key ally. Republican candidate Donald Trump has been openly critical of the large sums of money the US has provided to Ukraine and has echoed some of the narratives Russia has promoted about the conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine’s Zelensky to unveil 'victory plan' at crucial Ramstein meeting with Biden and Western allies

The United States has described Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Ukraine as "potentially helpful," AFP reported on Friday (August 23), citing the White House.&nbsp;

PM Modi reached Ukraine after a seven-hour train journey from Poland. This marks the first visit by an Indian prime minister to Ukraine. The White House&nbsp;said that it believes Modi's visit could contribute positively to the situation in Ukraine.

If Modi's Ukraine trip can work toward "getting us to an end to the conflict that comports with President (Volodymyr) Zelensky's vision for a just peace, well, then we think that would be helpful," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said during a press briefing.

In a joint statement released on Friday, the Indian PM and Ukrainian president&nbsp;highlighted their shared interest in advancing bilateral relations between the two nations. PM Modi emphasised his message of peace and urged both Russia and Ukraine to engage in talks to end the war as soon as possible.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-national-security-advisor-jake-sullivan-to-visit-china-will-it-pave-the-way-for-a-biden-xi-meeting-752788">US national security advisor to visit China: Will it lead to Biden-Xi meet?</a>

"The road to resolution can only be found through dialogue and diplomacy. And we should move in that direction without wasting any time. Both sides should sit together to find a way out of this crisis," the Indian PM said.

"I want to assure you that India is ready to play an active role in any efforts towards peace. If I can play any role in this personally, I will do that I want to assure you as a friend," he added.

"Our approach are always people centric- I want to assure to the whole world that we stand for territorial integrity. While I was in Moscow - I told very clear that this is not time for war, any resolution can bring through dialogue, discussion not on war field. Both sides need to sit together and should find way for peace," Modi said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States has described Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Ukraine as "potentially helpful," AFP reported on Friday (August 23), citing the White House.

The United States has described Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Ukraine as "potentially helpful," AFP reported on Friday (August 23), citing the White House. PM Modi reached Ukraine after a seven-hour train journey from Poland. This marks the first visit by an Indian prime minister to Ukraine. The White House said that it believes Modi's visit could contribute positively to the situation in Ukraine. If Modi's Ukraine trip can work toward "getting us to an end to the conflict that comports with President (Volodymyr) Zelensky's vision for a just peace, well, then we think that would be helpful," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said during a press briefing. In a joint statement released on Friday, the Indian PM and Ukrainian president highlighted their shared interest in advancing bilateral relations between the two nations. PM Modi emphasised his message of peace and urged both Russia and Ukraine to engage in talks to end the war as soon as possible. Also read: US national security advisor to visit China: Will it lead to Biden-Xi meet? "The road to resolution can only be found through dialogue and diplomacy. And we should move in that direction without wasting any time. Both sides should sit together to find a way out of this crisis," the Indian PM said. "I want to assure you that India is ready to play an active role in any efforts towards peace. If I can play any role in this personally, I will do that I want to assure you as a friend," he added. "Our approach are always people centric- I want to assure to the whole world that we stand for territorial integrity. While I was in Moscow - I told very clear that this is not time for war, any resolution can bring through dialogue, discussion not on war field. Both sides need to sit together and should find way for peace," Modi said. (With inputs from agencies)

Modi's historic Ukraine visit could aid 'Zelensky’s vision' for peace, says White House

Chinese diplomat is globe-trotting to stir up support in the Global South for supporting Ukraine peace proposal. Special envoy Li-Hui is on his latest round of shuttle diplomacy

China positions itself as Ukraine's peacemaker

If a report in Russia's state-run Tass news agency is to be believed, a pro-Kremlin Ukrainian opposition politician has warned in a letter to Donald Trump that Kyiv is planning to assassinate the US presidential candidate.

This comes days after the failed assassination attempt on the Republican candidate in the presidential election, to be held on November 5.

<h2>Who is the opposition politician who warned Trump about Ukraine trying to kill him?</h2>

Viktor Volodymyrovych Medvedchuk, who wrote the letter, is an exiled Ukrainian politician who currently lives in Russia. A personal friend of Russian President Vladimir Putin, the oligarch-politician was handed over to Russia as part of a prisoner swap. He was the leader of Platform For Life party, which is now banned in Ukraine. He now leads the Other Ukraine movement, according to Tass.

<h2>What did the letter say?</h2>

In his letter, Medvedchuk said the reason for Trump being made a target is his calls for peace in Ukraine.

&nbsp;"This peace means the loss of power for [Ukraine President Volodymyr] Zelensky’s Nazi regime and its American sponsors from the [Joe] Biden administration," he claimed in the letter, as cited by Tass on Tuesday (July 16).

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"This is why, esteemed Mr Trump, you have become an enemy for Ukrainian neo-Nazi Zelensky. And this scoundrel will stop at nothing to keep you from winning the presidential race," Medvedchuk said in his letter.&nbsp;

He also claimed that a "Ukrainian link may appear" in the recent bid on Trump's life. 
To bolster his claim, he pointed out that Ukraine military intelligence chief Kirill Budanov had said that the Ukrainian authorities had tried to assassinate Russian President Putin.

He also pointed out the warning by chief of the Ukrainian presidential office Andrey Yermak that Ukrainians who want to make peace with Russia would be eliminated, the Tass report said.

"Physical elimination of political opponents and political corruption are links in a chain for those who are seeking to stay in power and are profiting from the war in Ukraine by means of selling weapons to Ukrainian neo-Nazis," he wrote in the letter.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-secret-call-with-rfk-jr-gets-leaked-revealed-this-about-assassination-attempt-watch-741596">Trump's secret call with RFK Jr revealed THIS about assassination attempt</a>

"The usurpation of power by Zelensky and his personal interest in continuing hostilities in Ukraine to stay in power may lead to a bigger escalation of the conflict, its territorial expansion and the involvement of third countries, may entail more casualties, new acts of aggression and new threats to the entire world," Medvedchuk claimed.

"This threat can be thwarted when support for Zelensky’s criminal regime is stopped," he added, according to the Tass report.

<h2> 
How significant are claims that Ukraine may try to kill Trump?</h2>

 
It is intriguing because in the recently concluded NATO summit, Ukrainian President Zelensky had urged the US "not to wait till November" to give aid to Ukraine to fight its continuing war with Russia.

It is well-known that President Putin has had generally good relations with Trump when he was president in 2016-2020.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-hatched-plot-against-donald-trump-claim-us-intelligence-officials-741566">Iran hatched plot against Donald Trump, claim US intelligence officials</a>

During his campaign rallies, the former US president had said that he could end the Ukraine-Russia war and claimed he was the only one who could prevent a third World War from happening.

<h2>Trump has several threats to his life</h2>

The claims in the Ukrainian politician's letter comes amid confirmation from US intelligence agencies that Iran was planning to kill Trump.

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That plot is unrelated to the failed assassination bid on Trump on 13 July, when 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks fired at him during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. The former president survived, but a rallygoer was killed.

(With inputs from agencies)

If a report in Russia's state-run Tass news agency is to be believed, a pro-Kremlin Ukrainian opposition politician has warned in a letter to Donald Trump that Kyiv is planning to assassinate the US presidential candidate.

If a report in Russia's state-run Tass news agency is to be believed, a pro-Kremlin Ukrainian opposition politician has warned in a letter to Donald Trump that Kyiv is planning to assassinate the US presidential candidate. This comes days after the failed assassination attempt on the Republican candidate in the presidential election, to be held on November 5. Who is the opposition politician who warned Trump about Ukraine trying to kill him? Viktor Volodymyrovych Medvedchuk, who wrote the letter, is an exiled Ukrainian politician who currently lives in Russia. A personal friend of Russian President Vladimir Putin, the oligarch-politician was handed over to Russia as part of a prisoner swap. He was the leader of Platform For Life party, which is now banned in Ukraine. He now leads the Other Ukraine movement, according to Tass. What did the letter say? In his letter, Medvedchuk said the reason for Trump being made a target is his calls for peace in Ukraine. "This peace means the loss of power for [Ukraine President Volodymyr] Zelensky’s Nazi regime and its American sponsors from the [Joe] Biden administration," he claimed in the letter, as cited by Tass on Tuesday (July 16). Also read: Trump's defeated Republican rivals unite at Convention "This is why, esteemed Mr Trump, you have become an enemy for Ukrainian neo-Nazi Zelensky. And this scoundrel will stop at nothing to keep you from winning the presidential race," Medvedchuk said in his letter. He also claimed that a "Ukrainian link may appear" in the recent bid on Trump's life. To bolster his claim, he pointed out that Ukraine military intelligence chief Kirill Budanov had said that the Ukrainian authorities had tried to assassinate Russian President Putin. He also pointed out the warning by chief of the Ukrainian presidential office Andrey Yermak that Ukrainians who want to make peace with Russia would be eliminated, the Tass report said. "Physical elimination of political opponents and political corruption are links in a chain for those who are seeking to stay in power and are profiting from the war in Ukraine by means of selling weapons to Ukrainian neo-Nazis," he wrote in the letter. Also read: Trump's secret call with RFK Jr revealed THIS about assassination attempt "The usurpation of power by Zelensky and his personal interest in continuing hostilities in Ukraine to stay in power may lead to a bigger escalation of the conflict, its territorial expansion and the involvement of third countries, may entail more casualties, new acts of aggression and new threats to the entire world," Medvedchuk claimed. "This threat can be thwarted when support for Zelensky’s criminal regime is stopped," he added, according to the Tass report. How significant are claims that Ukraine may try to kill Trump? It is intriguing because in the recently concluded NATO summit, Ukrainian President Zelensky had urged the US "not to wait till November" to give aid to Ukraine to fight its continuing war with Russia. It is well-known that President Putin has had generally good relations with Trump when he was president in 2016-2020. Also read: Iran hatched plot against Donald Trump, claim US intelligence officials During his campaign rallies, the former US president had said that he could end the Ukraine-Russia war and claimed he was the only one who could prevent a third World War from happening. Trump has several threats to his life The claims in the Ukrainian politician's letter comes amid confirmation from US intelligence agencies that Iran was planning to kill Trump. × That plot is unrelated to the failed assassination bid on Trump on 13 July, when 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks fired at him during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. The former president survived, but a rallygoer was killed. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine could try to kill Trump, pro-Kremlin opposition politician warns in letter to ex-US prez

NATO's chief called Monday for China to face consequences if it keeps up support to Russia, as he said that a steady flow of weapons to Ukraine was the only way to end the war.

Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg was paying a visit to Washington to lay the groundwork for NATO's 75th anniversary summit next month.

The July gathering aims to send a decisive long-term message of support for Ukraine as President Joe Biden faces a tough reelection fight against Donald Trump, a skeptic of Western support for Kyiv.

Speaking ahead of a meeting with Biden, Stoltenberg accused China of worsening the conflict through what US officials say is a major export push to rebuild Russia's defense industry.

President Xi Jinping "has tried to create the impression that he is taking a back seat in this conflict, to avoid sanctions and keep trade flowing," Stoltenberg said at the Wilson Center.

"But the reality is that China is fueling the largest armed conflict in Europe since World War II, and at the same time, it wants to maintain good relations with the West," he said.

"Beijing cannot have it both ways. At some point -- and unless China changes course -- allies need to impose a cost. There should be consequences."

In addition to the 32 members of the NATO alliance, the summit will also bring in four key partners from the Asia-Pacific: Australia, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea.

China argues that it is not sending lethal assistance to either side -- unlike the United States and other Western nations.

Stoltenberg said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit this week to North Korea, which has supplied shells to Moscow despite being under UN sanctions, further showed how Moscow was "dependent" on authoritarian leaders.

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Beijing steered clear of a weekend summit in Switzerland promoted by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that reaffirmed Kyiv's demands for Russia to leave Ukrainian territory for any peace.

Russia has insisted that it is interested in talks, but has demanded Ukrainian forces withdraw from territory seized by Moscow.

Trump -- who in the past has voiced admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin -- has boasted that he can quickly end the war, likely by pressing Ukraine to accept demands.

In an unstated effort to "Trump-proof" future efforts, Stoltenberg wants the Washington summit both to put NATO in the lead of coordination on Ukraine and to set up a way for long-term military funding.

"The more credible our long-term support, the quicker Moscow will realize it cannot wait us out," he said.

"It may seem like a paradox, but the path to peace is more weapons for Ukraine."

The US Congress in April approved some $60 billion in new military funding for Ukraine but only after months of political fighting and opposition by some of Trump's Republican allies.

"Regardless of who's going to be the next president of the United States," Stoltenberg told reporters of the delay, "I believe that we should minimize the risk."

Stoltenberg said he would also tell Biden of the rising number of NATO members that are meeting a goal set in 2014 of spending two percent of GDP on defense.

Trump has long raged over what he sees as unfairness in the alliance founded in the Cold War.

On the campaign trail, he has suggested that he would encourage Russia to "do whatever the hell they want" to any NATO member that does not "pay (its) bills."

Asked about Trump's criticism, Stoltenberg, who led NATO throughout the mogul's 2017-2021 presidency, said that successive US administrations had "an absolutely valid point to say that European allies are spending too little."

"The good news is that's changing," Stoltenberg said.

"We're not saying that we are satisfied, but we are in a totally different place now than we were back in 2014."

NATO's chief called Monday for China to face consequences if it keeps up support to Russia, as he said that a steady flow of weapons to Ukraine was the only way to end the war.

NATO's chief called Monday for China to face consequences if it keeps up support to Russia, as he said that a steady flow of weapons to Ukraine was the only way to end the war. Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg was paying a visit to Washington to lay the groundwork for NATO's 75th anniversary summit next month. The July gathering aims to send a decisive long-term message of support for Ukraine as President Joe Biden faces a tough reelection fight against Donald Trump, a skeptic of Western support for Kyiv. Speaking ahead of a meeting with Biden, Stoltenberg accused China of worsening the conflict through what US officials say is a major export push to rebuild Russia's defense industry. President Xi Jinping "has tried to create the impression that he is taking a back seat in this conflict, to avoid sanctions and keep trade flowing," Stoltenberg said at the Wilson Center. "But the reality is that China is fueling the largest armed conflict in Europe since World War II, and at the same time, it wants to maintain good relations with the West," he said. "Beijing cannot have it both ways. At some point -- and unless China changes course -- allies need to impose a cost. There should be consequences." In addition to the 32 members of the NATO alliance, the summit will also bring in four key partners from the Asia-Pacific: Australia, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea. China argues that it is not sending lethal assistance to either side -- unlike the United States and other Western nations. Stoltenberg said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit this week to North Korea, which has supplied shells to Moscow despite being under UN sanctions, further showed how Moscow was "dependent" on authoritarian leaders. Also read: India and Italy strengthen ties with Indo-Mediterranean initiative Beijing steered clear of a weekend summit in Switzerland promoted by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that reaffirmed Kyiv's demands for Russia to leave Ukrainian territory for any peace. Russia has insisted that it is interested in talks, but has demanded Ukrainian forces withdraw from territory seized by Moscow. Trump -- who in the past has voiced admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin -- has boasted that he can quickly end the war, likely by pressing Ukraine to accept demands. In an unstated effort to "Trump-proof" future efforts, Stoltenberg wants the Washington summit both to put NATO in the lead of coordination on Ukraine and to set up a way for long-term military funding. "The more credible our long-term support, the quicker Moscow will realize it cannot wait us out," he said. "It may seem like a paradox, but the path to peace is more weapons for Ukraine." The US Congress in April approved some $60 billion in new military funding for Ukraine but only after months of political fighting and opposition by some of Trump's Republican allies. "Regardless of who's going to be the next president of the United States," Stoltenberg told reporters of the delay, "I believe that we should minimize the risk." Stoltenberg said he would also tell Biden of the rising number of NATO members that are meeting a goal set in 2014 of spending two percent of GDP on defense. Trump has long raged over what he sees as unfairness in the alliance founded in the Cold War. On the campaign trail, he has suggested that he would encourage Russia to "do whatever the hell they want" to any NATO member that does not "pay (its) bills." Asked about Trump's criticism, Stoltenberg, who led NATO throughout the mogul's 2017-2021 presidency, said that successive US administrations had "an absolutely valid point to say that European allies are spending too little." "The good news is that's changing," Stoltenberg said. "We're not saying that we are satisfied, but we are in a totally different place now than we were back in 2014."

West should 'impose a cost' on China for Russia support: NATO chief

Russia launched a total of 100 projectiles overnight targeting energy sites across Ukraine in a fresh salvo, the Ukrainian officials said on Saturday (June 1).

Russia has fired hundreds of missiles in its air offensive targeting Ukraine's power facilities since the war broke out, causing significant energy shortages and damage.

"The enemy launched 53 missiles of various types and 47 attack drones," the air force said, adding that it shot down 35 of the missiles and all but one of the drones.

The DTEK operator said that two thermal power plants were damaged in Moscow's assault, without mentioning details about their exact location.

"It was another extremely difficult night for the Ukrainian energy sector. The enemy struck two of our thermal power plants. The equipment was seriously damaged," the company said in a statement on Telegram.

This was the sixth major attack on DTEK thermal power plants since mid-March, the statement added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-exchange-150-prisoners-after-uae-brokered-deal-727558">Also read: Russia, Ukraine exchange 150 prisoners after UAE-brokered deal</a>

<h2>'Russia targeted sites in five regions,'&nbsp;says Ukraine's Energy Minister</h2>

Russia's air offensive targeted sites in five regions, Donetsk, Dnipropetrovsk, Kirovograd, Ivano-Frankivsk and Zaporizhzhia, stretching from near the eastern frontlines to Ukraine's west, which borders the European Union, said Ukraine's Energy Minister German Galushchenko.

The ministry further warned that due to the attacks, there would be power restrictions across the country on Saturday evening.

<h2>'Moscow exploiting lack of determination among Ukraine's key backers': Zelensky</h2>

President Volodymyr Zelensky said Moscow was making attempts to "exploit" the lack of "determination" among Ukraine's key Western backers, reiterating his call for more air defence systems.

"Russia's main goal is to normalise terror, to exploit the lack of sufficient air defence and determination of Ukraine's partners," he said in a social media post.

"This is a test of humanity and determination for the free world. Either we pass this test together, or the world will plunge into even greater destabilisation and chaos," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia launched a total of 100 projectiles overnight targeting energy sites across Ukraine in a fresh salvo, the Ukrainian officials said on Saturday (June 1). Russia has fired hundreds of missiles in its air offensive targeting Ukraine's power facilities since the war broke out, causing significant energy shortages and damage.

Russia launched a total of 100 projectiles overnight targeting energy sites across Ukraine in a fresh salvo, the Ukrainian officials said on Saturday (June 1). Russia has fired hundreds of missiles in its air offensive targeting Ukraine's power facilities since the war broke out, causing significant energy shortages and damage. "The enemy launched 53 missiles of various types and 47 attack drones," the air force said, adding that it shot down 35 of the missiles and all but one of the drones. The DTEK operator said that two thermal power plants were damaged in Moscow's assault, without mentioning details about their exact location. "It was another extremely difficult night for the Ukrainian energy sector. The enemy struck two of our thermal power plants. The equipment was seriously damaged," the company said in a statement on Telegram. This was the sixth major attack on DTEK thermal power plants since mid-March, the statement added. Also read: Russia, Ukraine exchange 150 prisoners after UAE-brokered deal 'Russia targeted sites in five regions,' says Ukraine's Energy Minister Russia's air offensive targeted sites in five regions, Donetsk, Dnipropetrovsk, Kirovograd, Ivano-Frankivsk and Zaporizhzhia, stretching from near the eastern frontlines to Ukraine's west, which borders the European Union, said Ukraine's Energy Minister German Galushchenko. The ministry further warned that due to the attacks, there would be power restrictions across the country on Saturday evening. 'Moscow exploiting lack of determination among Ukraine's key backers': Zelensky President Volodymyr Zelensky said Moscow was making attempts to "exploit" the lack of "determination" among Ukraine's key Western backers, reiterating his call for more air defence systems. "Russia's main goal is to normalise terror, to exploit the lack of sufficient air defence and determination of Ukraine's partners," he said in a social media post. "This is a test of humanity and determination for the free world. Either we pass this test together, or the world will plunge into even greater destabilisation and chaos," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia fires barrage of missiles targeting Ukraine’s energy sites

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Ukraine is nowhere near winning the war or reclaiming territories occupied by Russia but vultures have already started circling in. Hungary's "Our homeland party" leader, Laszlo Toroczkai, has claimed Ukraine's Zakarpattia Oblast, also known as the Transcarpathia region. Toroczkai has said that his party would lay claim to this western region of Ukraine, if the country loses the war with Russia.

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Russia-Ukraine war: Russian strikes threatens Europe, says NATO General. Fatigue grows and morale wanes in Ukraine. With western aid stalled, Ukrainian troops run low on artillery. Pessimism over prospects for a victory is rising in Ukraine. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war: Russian strikes threatens Europe, says NATO General

A Russian Ilyushin Il-76 military transport plane crashed on Wednesday in Russia's Belgorod region. Russia has accused Ukraine of downing the plane whereas Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Moscow of "playing with the lives of Ukrainian prisoners of war."

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Russian military plane crash: Ukrainian President Zelensky calls for an international probe

Russian assets, worth about 300 billion dollar, are at the centre of the EU-Russia tensions. Since the war began in Ukraine, EU officials have been comtemplating about these frozen assets. Latest reports suggest that officials are unlikely to confiscate these assets.

Russia-Ukraine war: EU's $300 billion dilemma; Russian assets to fund Ukraine?| World Business Watch

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