<p>Chinese Defense&nbsp;Minister Gen. Li Shangfu will visit Russia next week along with the Chinese State Councilor on an official four-day visit to the country. Gen. Li will be meeting his Russian counterpart Sergei Shoigu and other military officials, China’s Defense Ministry said Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Senior Col. Tan Kefei, the spokesman for China's Defense Ministry, told a press briefing in Beijing that during his trip, Li will meet and hold talks with Russian military leaders, and visit military academies.</p>

<p>Li’s visit to Russia lays emphasis on China’s bolstering relations with Russia, which is largely aligned with their foreign policy towards reshaping the world order to diminish the US influence. China’s support of Russia is clear from its refusal to criticise Russia over its military operation in Ukraine. It has instead blamed the US and NATA for provoking Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/in-first-irans-president-addresses-palestinians-in-gaza-vows-full-support-for-resistance-582706">In first, Iran's President addresses Palestinians in Gaza, vows full support for resistance</a></p>

<p>During a 2022 visit to Beijing, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping issued a joint statement declaring a “no limits” relationship between the two nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The trip follows Xi's official visit to Moscow last month, during which he emphasised how China is gradually becoming the relationship's senior partner, providing Russia with diplomatic cover and an economic lifeline during its war in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Officially, however, China remains neutral in the conflict and has yet to offer a full-throated endorsement of Russia’s actions.</p>

<p>While Moscow and Beijing have indicated they will strengthen military contacts and hold more combined sea and air patrols and drills, China's foreign minister said Friday that China will not assist Russia with weapons, as feared by the US and other Western allies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch |&nbsp;<strong>China's Defence Minister to visit Russia from April 16 to 19 | WION Speed News</strong></p>

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<p>“Sino-Russian military relations have continued to operate at a high level, and new progress has been made,” Tan was quoted as saying in a ministry news release announcing Li’s visit.</p>

<p>The “China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination in the new era” has been enriched by “strategic communication, joint exercises and practical cooperation” at the military level, Tan said.</p>

<p>Military power in China is concentrated in the ruling Communist Party’s Military Affairs Commission led by Xi and two vice-chairs.</p>

<p>Li, a trained aerospace engineer, is subject to US penalties as a result of Chinese purchases of Russian fighter jets and air defence weapons. At the annual gathering of China's ceremonial legislature in March, he was appointed minister.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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Chinese Defense Minister Gen. Li Shangfu will visit Russia next week along with the Chinese State Councilor on an official four-day visit to the country. Gen. Li will be meeting his Russian counterpart Sergei Shoigu and other military officials, China’s Defense Ministry said Friday.

Chinese Defense Minister Gen. Li Shangfu will visit Russia next week along with the Chinese State Councilor on an official four-day visit to the country. Gen. Li will be meeting his Russian counterpart Sergei Shoigu and other military officials, China’s Defense Ministry said Friday. Senior Col. Tan Kefei, the spokesman for China's Defense Ministry, told a press briefing in Beijing that during his trip, Li will meet and hold talks with Russian military leaders, and visit military academies. Li’s visit to Russia lays emphasis on China’s bolstering relations with Russia, which is largely aligned with their foreign policy towards reshaping the world order to diminish the US influence. China’s support of Russia is clear from its refusal to criticise Russia over its military operation in Ukraine. It has instead blamed the US and NATA for provoking Moscow. Also Read | In first, Iran's President addresses Palestinians in Gaza, vows full support for resistance During a 2022 visit to Beijing, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping issued a joint statement declaring a “no limits” relationship between the two nations. The trip follows Xi's official visit to Moscow last month, during which he emphasised how China is gradually becoming the relationship's senior partner, providing Russia with diplomatic cover and an economic lifeline during its war in Ukraine. Officially, however, China remains neutral in the conflict and has yet to offer a full-throated endorsement of Russia’s actions. While Moscow and Beijing have indicated they will strengthen military contacts and hold more combined sea and air patrols and drills, China's foreign minister said Friday that China will not assist Russia with weapons, as feared by the US and other Western allies. Watch | China's Defence Minister to visit Russia from April 16 to 19 | WION Speed News × “Sino-Russian military relations have continued to operate at a high level, and new progress has been made,” Tan was quoted as saying in a ministry news release announcing Li’s visit. The “China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination in the new era” has been enriched by “strategic communication, joint exercises and practical cooperation” at the military level, Tan said. Military power in China is concentrated in the ruling Communist Party’s Military Affairs Commission led by Xi and two vice-chairs. Li, a trained aerospace engineer, is subject to US penalties as a result of Chinese purchases of Russian fighter jets and air defence weapons. At the annual gathering of China's ceremonial legislature in March, he was appointed minister. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China’s new defence minister to meet Russian counterpart for first time since war in Ukraine

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday approved an electronic call-up bill which will put restrictions on people who are eligible for military service but try to dodge it by not showing up at their enlistment office.&nbsp;The State Duma, the lower house of the Russian parliament, had passed this bill earlier that would make it harder for those who avoid military service. This comes amid reports that many refuse to pick up mail at their official address to escape service. But with this bill approved now, electronic notifications will be sent too.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The legislation includes the creation of one registry for all people who are eligible to serve in the military and the implementation of electronic military summons. A copy of the legislation was posted on a government website on Friday, reported Russia's&nbsp;TASS news agency. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-four-killed-13-injured-in-fire-in-childrens-shelter-582595">Brazil: Four killed, 13 injured in fire in children's shelter</a></p>

<p>The legislation requires that electronic copies of draft orders be delivered to those who are qualified for military duty in addition to print copies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An electronic summons will be deemed delivered if it is uploaded to the recipient's account on "a relevant online service, in an information system."&nbsp;</p>

<p>A person will also receive notification of the summons through his or her account with the online portal for government services.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per TASS, a summons shall be deemed served seven days after the day it was registered in the draft registry, if it is not delivered in writing or electronically.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-leak-us-president-biden-says-probe-will-examine-why-leaker-had-classified-access-582597">Pentagon leak: US President Biden says investigation will examine why leaker had classified access</a></p>

<p><strong>What are the restrictions in the new electronic military enlistment bill </strong><strong>?&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>If people&nbsp;do not report at their military enlistment office within 20 days of receiving&nbsp;the summons, without a good cause, temporary limits will be placed on them.<br />
<br />
<strong>Watch | Macron's pension reform gets constitutional green light despite raging protests</strong></p>

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<p>They might not be allowed to register as entrepreneurs, register their cars and houses and other properties, have their licences cancelled, and have their loan requests denied.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Various regions in Russia will be free to enact their own additional regulations. It may include restricting different payments, benefits, and other forms of social support. There are two ways to challenge these restrictions, in court or outside it.</p>

<p>Additionally, those who are required to serve in the military will be prohibited from leaving Russia beginning from the day they get summons until they go to the recruitment office.</p>

<p>If they have not already done so, everybody who is eligible for military duty has two weeks from the beginning of the next conscription period to report to their enlistment office.</p>

<p>With this new law, the electronic call-up processes Putin aims to make military mobilisation more efficient. Over 300,000 men, according to reports, were mobilised last year to support its "special military operation" in Ukraine.<br />
<br />
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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday approved an electronic call-up bill which will put restrictions on people who are eligible for military service but try to dodge it by not showing up at their enlistment office.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday approved an electronic call-up bill which will put restrictions on people who are eligible for military service but try to dodge it by not showing up at their enlistment office. The State Duma, the lower house of the Russian parliament, had passed this bill earlier that would make it harder for those who avoid military service. This comes amid reports that many refuse to pick up mail at their official address to escape service. But with this bill approved now, electronic notifications will be sent too. The legislation includes the creation of one registry for all people who are eligible to serve in the military and the implementation of electronic military summons. A copy of the legislation was posted on a government website on Friday, reported Russia's TASS news agency. Also Read | Brazil: Four killed, 13 injured in fire in children's shelter The legislation requires that electronic copies of draft orders be delivered to those who are qualified for military duty in addition to print copies. An electronic summons will be deemed delivered if it is uploaded to the recipient's account on "a relevant online service, in an information system." A person will also receive notification of the summons through his or her account with the online portal for government services. As per TASS, a summons shall be deemed served seven days after the day it was registered in the draft registry, if it is not delivered in writing or electronically. Also Read | Pentagon leak: US President Biden says investigation will examine why leaker had classified access What are the restrictions in the new electronic military enlistment bill ? If people do not report at their military enlistment office within 20 days of receiving the summons, without a good cause, temporary limits will be placed on them. Watch | Macron's pension reform gets constitutional green light despite raging protests × They might not be allowed to register as entrepreneurs, register their cars and houses and other properties, have their licences cancelled, and have their loan requests denied. Various regions in Russia will be free to enact their own additional regulations. It may include restricting different payments, benefits, and other forms of social support. There are two ways to challenge these restrictions, in court or outside it. Additionally, those who are required to serve in the military will be prohibited from leaving Russia beginning from the day they get summons until they go to the recruitment office. If they have not already done so, everybody who is eligible for military duty has two weeks from the beginning of the next conscription period to report to their enlistment office. With this new law, the electronic call-up processes Putin aims to make military mobilisation more efficient. Over 300,000 men, according to reports, were mobilised last year to support its "special military operation" in Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin approves electronic call-up bill, clamps down on Russians who dodge military service

<p>India will send school buses as well as other supplementary humanitarian aid in response to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking aid. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The request came in the form of a letter that Meenakashi Lekhi, the Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, received from Emine Dzhaparova, the Deputy Foreign Minister of Ukraine, during her three-day trip to India.</p>

<p>A variety of subjects were covered during the meeting, including bilateral and global matters of shared interest, according to the news agency ANI.</p>

<p>India has promised to provide more comprehensive humanitarian aid, including school buses, to Ukraine.</p>

<p>Dzhaparova took to Twitter to post her thanks on Tuesday post the meeting. Her tweet read, "Had a fruitful meeting with @M_Lekhi. Briefed Minister on #Ukraine's efforts to fight unprovoked aggression. Discussed deepening bilateral cooperation in various fields, in a particular culture. Bookshelves and audio guides under the patronage of @ZelenskaUA will be available soon in India."</p>

<p>Dzhaparova spoke with Secretary (West), MEA Sanjay Verma in-person over the course of her three-day trip. International issues of shared interest as well as topics in the economy, defence, and humanitarian aid were on the agenda.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Russia Ukraine War: Ukrainian Prisoner of War allegedly beheaded on camera, video surfaces online</strong></p>

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<p>The deputy foreign minister of Ukraine informed Secretary (West) on the situation there as the conflict with Russia heated further.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Inter-Governmental Commission between New Delhi and Kyiv will meet again at a mutually agreed-upon time in India, according to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs. During the discussion, both parties decided to hold the following round of Foreign Office Consultations in Kyiv on a later date that would be agreed upon by both parties.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-successfully-tests-advanced-icbm-weeks-after-suspending-participation-in-new-start-pact-581660">Russia ‘successfully’ tests ‘advanced’ ICBM weeks after suspending participation in New START pact</a></p>

<p>The MEA statement said, "The Ukrainian Deputy FM also proposed that rebuilding infrastructure in Ukraine could be an opportunity for Indian companies. Secretary (West) shared that India has provided medicines, and medical equipment and would provide school buses, etc. to Ukraine."</p>

<p>Following a visit to the Manohar Parrikar Institute of Defence Studies, Dzhaparova spoke at the Indian Council of World Affairs. She emphasised Ukraine's aim to forge a stronger and more enduring relationship with India during her visit.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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India will send school buses as well as other supplementary humanitarian aid in response to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking aid.

India will send school buses as well as other supplementary humanitarian aid in response to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking aid. The request came in the form of a letter that Meenakashi Lekhi, the Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, received from Emine Dzhaparova, the Deputy Foreign Minister of Ukraine, during her three-day trip to India. A variety of subjects were covered during the meeting, including bilateral and global matters of shared interest, according to the news agency ANI. India has promised to provide more comprehensive humanitarian aid, including school buses, to Ukraine. Dzhaparova took to Twitter to post her thanks on Tuesday post the meeting. Her tweet read, "Had a fruitful meeting with @M_Lekhi. Briefed Minister on #Ukraine's efforts to fight unprovoked aggression. Discussed deepening bilateral cooperation in various fields, in a particular culture. Bookshelves and audio guides under the patronage of @ZelenskaUA will be available soon in India." Dzhaparova spoke with Secretary (West), MEA Sanjay Verma in-person over the course of her three-day trip. International issues of shared interest as well as topics in the economy, defence, and humanitarian aid were on the agenda. ALSO WATCH | Russia Ukraine War: Ukrainian Prisoner of War allegedly beheaded on camera, video surfaces online The deputy foreign minister of Ukraine informed Secretary (West) on the situation there as the conflict with Russia heated further. The Inter-Governmental Commission between New Delhi and Kyiv will meet again at a mutually agreed-upon time in India, according to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs. During the discussion, both parties decided to hold the following round of Foreign Office Consultations in Kyiv on a later date that would be agreed upon by both parties. ALSO READ | Russia ‘successfully’ tests ‘advanced’ ICBM weeks after suspending participation in New START pact The MEA statement said, "The Ukrainian Deputy FM also proposed that rebuilding infrastructure in Ukraine could be an opportunity for Indian companies. Secretary (West) shared that India has provided medicines, and medical equipment and would provide school buses, etc. to Ukraine." Following a visit to the Manohar Parrikar Institute of Defence Studies, Dzhaparova spoke at the Indian Council of World Affairs. She emphasised Ukraine's aim to forge a stronger and more enduring relationship with India during her visit. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India to send school buses to Ukraine as part of additional humanitarian aid

<p>Germany&nbsp;has approved&nbsp;Poland's request to&nbsp;export&nbsp;five&nbsp;old&nbsp;MiG-29&nbsp;fighter&nbsp;jets&nbsp;to bolster&nbsp; Ukraine's air power against the Russian invasion, the German defence ministry said on Thursday.</p>

<p>Poland's defence ministry did not immediately comment.</p>

<p>German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said the request had arrived Thursday, and that Berlin's same-day approval showed that&nbsp;Germany&nbsp;could be relied upon.</p>

<p>Germany&nbsp;inherited 24 MiG-29&nbsp;jets&nbsp;from the East German GDR during reunification in 1990. At the time, the aircraft were seen as among the most advanced&nbsp;fighter&nbsp;jets&nbsp;in the world.</p>

<p>In 2004, Berlin passed on 22 of the aircraft to&nbsp;Poland. Of the remaining two&nbsp;jets, one was destroyed in a crash and one is on show at a museum.</p>

<p>Poland&nbsp;needs Berlin's consent to send its remaining&nbsp;jets&nbsp;to a third country.</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said during a visit to Warsaw last week that&nbsp; Poland&nbsp;would help form a coalition of Western powers to supply warplanes to Kyiv.</p>

<p>Ukraine, which hopes to launch a counteroffensive in the coming weeks or months, wants to secure&nbsp;fighter&nbsp;jets&nbsp;to defend against air strikes.</p>

<p>Western countries have so far been reluctant to send advanced&nbsp;fighter&nbsp;jets&nbsp;such as F-16's to Kyiv, but some countries have stepped in to send&nbsp;old&nbsp;MiG-29&nbsp;jets&nbsp;that&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;already uses.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Germany has approved Poland's request to export five old MiG-29 fighter jets to bolster Ukraine's air power against the Russian invasion, the German defence ministry said on Thursday.

Germany has approved Poland's request to export five old MiG-29 fighter jets to bolster Ukraine's air power against the Russian invasion, the German defence ministry said on Thursday. Poland's defence ministry did not immediately comment. German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said the request had arrived Thursday, and that Berlin's same-day approval showed that Germany could be relied upon. Germany inherited 24 MiG-29 jets from the East German GDR during reunification in 1990. At the time, the aircraft were seen as among the most advanced fighter jets in the world. In 2004, Berlin passed on 22 of the aircraft to Poland. Of the remaining two jets, one was destroyed in a crash and one is on show at a museum. Poland needs Berlin's consent to send its remaining jets to a third country. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said during a visit to Warsaw last week that Poland would help form a coalition of Western powers to supply warplanes to Kyiv. Ukraine, which hopes to launch a counteroffensive in the coming weeks or months, wants to secure fighter jets to defend against air strikes. Western countries have so far been reluctant to send advanced fighter jets such as F-16's to Kyiv, but some countries have stepped in to send old MiG-29 jets that Ukraine already uses. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Germany allows Poland to export old MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine

The increase in oil prices following the conflict in Ukraine has resulted in high inflation worldwide and a terrible economic crisis in certain nations, but ExxonMobil CEO Darren Wood has good news because his compensation package has increased by more than 50% since the conflict.

Exxon CEO gets record pay hike amid Ukraine war

A horrific beheading video has emerged from the Russia Ukraine War. It allegedly shows a Ukrainian prisoner of war being beheaded. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Horrific beheading video emerges from Russia-Ukraine war

<p>Russia is taking steps towards introducing electronic military draft papers for the first time in its history with an aim to make it harder for people to dodge being drafted into the military. On Tuesday (April 11), the lower house of Russian parliament backed the legislation.</p>

<p>Though Russian officials maintain that there were currently no plans to compel more men to fight in Ukraine, Putin-led government is perfecting a system it has used to boost numbers of its military personnel in Ukraine. According to Western officials, Russian armed forces have suffered tens of thousands of casualties in the Ukraine conflict till now.</p>

<p>The new draft regime will close numerous loopholes exploited by draft dodgers and give Russia the organisational infrastructure to carry out a much more thorough and wider mobilisation campaign if and when it decides to do so.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Kyiv accuses Russia of war crimes after video appears to show Ukrainian POW's beheading</strong></p>

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<p>Russia's regular conscription campaigns would come under the new rules as well. These campaigns take place twice a year for men aged 18 to 27.</p>

<p>The State Duma, the lower chamber, approved the necessary legislation in two separate votes at lightning speed on Tuesday with near unanimity.</p>

<p>There were complaints from some lawmakers that changes in the rules were rushed through without enough time for scrutiny.</p>

<p>The changes still need to be approved by the upper house of parliament - which is also expected to vote in its favour by a large margin - and by President Vladimir Putin, before they take effect. Both steps are expected in the coming days.</p>

<p>Russia says it mobilised just over 300,000 men last year to help it prosecute what it calls its "special military operation" in Ukraine, but is now focused on trying to recruit professional volunteer soldiers via an advertising campaign.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russia is taking steps towards introducing electronic military draft papers for the first time in its history with an aim to make it harder for people to dodge being drafted into the military.

Russia is taking steps towards introducing electronic military draft papers for the first time in its history with an aim to make it harder for people to dodge being drafted into the military. On Tuesday (April 11), the lower house of Russian parliament backed the legislation. Though Russian officials maintain that there were currently no plans to compel more men to fight in Ukraine, Putin-led government is perfecting a system it has used to boost numbers of its military personnel in Ukraine. According to Western officials, Russian armed forces have suffered tens of thousands of casualties in the Ukraine conflict till now. The new draft regime will close numerous loopholes exploited by draft dodgers and give Russia the organisational infrastructure to carry out a much more thorough and wider mobilisation campaign if and when it decides to do so. Watch | Kyiv accuses Russia of war crimes after video appears to show Ukrainian POW's beheading × Russia's regular conscription campaigns would come under the new rules as well. These campaigns take place twice a year for men aged 18 to 27. The State Duma, the lower chamber, approved the necessary legislation in two separate votes at lightning speed on Tuesday with near unanimity. There were complaints from some lawmakers that changes in the rules were rushed through without enough time for scrutiny. The changes still need to be approved by the upper house of parliament - which is also expected to vote in its favour by a large margin - and by President Vladimir Putin, before they take effect. Both steps are expected in the coming days. Russia says it mobilised just over 300,000 men last year to help it prosecute what it calls its "special military operation" in Ukraine, but is now focused on trying to recruit professional volunteer soldiers via an advertising campaign. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia moves towards electronic system to crack down on conscription dodgers

<p>Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov claimed on Wednesday (April 12) that leaked US intelligence documents may be part of a deliberate attempt to mislead Moscow. The documents that have surfaced online reportedly contain US assessment of Ukraine war and information on other countries.</p>

<p>Ryabkov told Russian news agencies on Wednesday that, for now, the leak threw up many questions.</p>

<p>"It's probably interesting for someone to look at these documents, if they are documents at all, or maybe they are fake, maybe this is a deliberate information dump," Ryabkov was cited as saying.</p>

<p>"Since the United States is a party to the (Ukraine) conflict and is in essence waging a hybrid war against us, it's possible such things are being done to mislead the enemy - that is the Russian Federation," he said.</p>

<p>The Kremlin said earlier on Wednesday that it did not know "like everyone else" how authentic the documents were.</p>

<p>Authorities in the US have launched investigation into the leaks. It is being suspected that the leaker may be an American but a Russian angle has not been completely ruled out.</p>

<p>Reuters reported that a former CIA officer said it is highly likely that Moscow orchestrated the leak in order to sow confusion and potential divisions between Washington and its allies.</p>

<p>When asked about such allegations, the Kremlin has said there's a tendency to always blame everything on Russia.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov claimed on Wednesday (April 12) that leaked US intelligence documents may be part of a deliberate attempt to mislead Moscow.

Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov claimed on Wednesday (April 12) that leaked US intelligence documents may be part of a deliberate attempt to mislead Moscow. The documents that have surfaced online reportedly contain US assessment of Ukraine war and information on other countries. Ryabkov told Russian news agencies on Wednesday that, for now, the leak threw up many questions. "It's probably interesting for someone to look at these documents, if they are documents at all, or maybe they are fake, maybe this is a deliberate information dump," Ryabkov was cited as saying. "Since the United States is a party to the (Ukraine) conflict and is in essence waging a hybrid war against us, it's possible such things are being done to mislead the enemy - that is the Russian Federation," he said. The Kremlin said earlier on Wednesday that it did not know "like everyone else" how authentic the documents were. Authorities in the US have launched investigation into the leaks. It is being suspected that the leaker may be an American but a Russian angle has not been completely ruled out. Reuters reported that a former CIA officer said it is highly likely that Moscow orchestrated the leak in order to sow confusion and potential divisions between Washington and its allies. When asked about such allegations, the Kremlin has said there's a tendency to always blame everything on Russia. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US intelligence leak can be fake, meant to mislead Moscow: Russian minister

<p>The World Bank on Wednesday (April 12) announced a grant of $200 million for repairing Ukraine's energy infrastructure. In a statement, the World Bank said that Russia damaged over 50% of Ukraine's power infrastructure in attacks on its neighbour over the autumn and winter months. The statement added that Ukraine's east, where fighting is fiercest, has been particularly hard hit.</p>

<p>The World Bank added that the funds were provided by the Ukraine Relief, Recovery, Reconstruction and Reform Trust Fund (URTF), with a goal of up to $300 million in additional funding from partners "as the project expands its scope."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imf-board-approves-156-billion-loan-for-war-torn-ukraine-577840">IMF board approves $15.6 billion loan for war-torn Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>Anna Bjerde, the World Bank Managing Director of Operations, said on Wednesday that energy infrastructure suffered $11 billion in damages over the last year and was one of the areas where Ukraine needed urgent support.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This announcement by the World Bank comes ahead of the spring meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). During the event, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked partners via video link for their support and urged further backing.</p>

<p>"By rebuilding what has been ruined, we defeat the goal of terror, we return the normal life," President Zelensky said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On March 31, the IMF announced that it had approved a $15.6 billion support package for Ukraine, forming the fund's portion of a $115 billion overall support package.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A recent study by the World Bank, the United Nations (UN), the European Commission, and Ukraine said that the war-torn country would need an estimated $411 billion for recovery and reconstruction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The sum is an increase on the $349 billion estimated in September last year and is likely to only grow as the war continues.</p>

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The World Bank on Wednesday (April 12) announced a grant of $200 million for repairing Ukraine's energy infrastructure. In a statement, the World Bank said that Russia damaged over 50% of Ukraine's power infrastructure in attacks on its neighbour over the autumn and winter months.

The World Bank on Wednesday (April 12) announced a grant of $200 million for repairing Ukraine's energy infrastructure. In a statement, the World Bank said that Russia damaged over 50% of Ukraine's power infrastructure in attacks on its neighbour over the autumn and winter months. The statement added that Ukraine's east, where fighting is fiercest, has been particularly hard hit. The World Bank added that the funds were provided by the Ukraine Relief, Recovery, Reconstruction and Reform Trust Fund (URTF), with a goal of up to $300 million in additional funding from partners "as the project expands its scope." ALSO READ | IMF board approves $15.6 billion loan for war-torn Ukraine Anna Bjerde, the World Bank Managing Director of Operations, said on Wednesday that energy infrastructure suffered $11 billion in damages over the last year and was one of the areas where Ukraine needed urgent support. This announcement by the World Bank comes ahead of the spring meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). During the event, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked partners via video link for their support and urged further backing. "By rebuilding what has been ruined, we defeat the goal of terror, we return the normal life," President Zelensky said. On March 31, the IMF announced that it had approved a $15.6 billion support package for Ukraine, forming the fund's portion of a $115 billion overall support package. A recent study by the World Bank, the United Nations (UN), the European Commission, and Ukraine said that the war-torn country would need an estimated $411 billion for recovery and reconstruction. The sum is an increase on the $349 billion estimated in September last year and is likely to only grow as the war continues. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World Bank announces grant of $200 million to repair Ukraine's energy infrastructure

<p>When Europe sneezes, does Asia catch a cold? This is the big question on my mind after air raids in Myanmar by the ruling military junta against its own opposition this week, marking yet another step in former Burma's backward march to authoritarian rule from a fledgling democracy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The United Nations, the United States, and the Association of South-East Nations (ASEAN) have all condemned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-military-targets-school-children-performing-dances-in-saigaing-up-to-100-feared-dead-581524">airstrikes</a>&nbsp;which are estimated to have killed an estimated 100 people in the Sagaing region where opponents of the military government had gathered for a ceremony. That the region is a stronghold of deposed opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi’s suspended National League for Democracy should indicate where things are going. In February 2021, the ruling generals simply pushed back the Nobel peace prize winner's elected party out of government in a coup even as the world was struggling to crawl out of the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an interlinked world old equations are giving way to new uncertainties. President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine has decidedly tilted the balance in such a way that Europe and the United States would obviously be worried more about what happens in Kyiv and Moscow, than in Naypyidaw. That should in turn worry supporters of democracy, East of the Suez. Or, in geopolitical terms, the West in general because behind Myanmar's newfound authoritarianism, one can see a huge Chinese indifference, if not influence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is usual in politics for some to be emboldened when they see less of a threat that would restrain them from taking some steps. The Ukraine war, coming in the wake of the painful Brexit that saw the UK exit the European Union and an economic crisis in Europe accentuated by the war, has created conditions for the mandarins in Beijing to move forward in increasing their influence across the planet, but most certainly in Asia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/the-us-dollar-is-shaky-but-let-us-not-dream-of-an-alt-currency-in-a-hurry-579360">World disorder: Can the Global South define&nbsp;itself?</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>I would certainly link recent peace-making efforts taken by China to make Saudi Arabia and Iran come closer as one step, and the air raids in Myanmar to the super-power vacuum of sorts created in Asia by the Ukraine war. Naypidaw (or Nay Pyi Taw) literally means the Abode of Kings -- and that might be a sign of an authoritarian royalty taking away powers from pro-democracy civilians and common citizens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There was a time in the 1960s when Chairman Mao Ze Dong's communist party wanted his Cultural Revolution to extend to ethnic Chinese people outside of China and that caused anti-China riots in then Burma. But things have changed so much that it is possible to see Myanmar increasingly as an autocratic ally of China than a post-colonial nation edging towards a modern democracy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chinese investments in Myanmar were under strain during NLD's democratic rule, and there have been threats issued by opposition groups to attack Beijing's assets if China supports military rulers. Beijing has moved nonchalantly since the coup to guard its interests, which include investments backed by a pile of debt. With Myanmar rich in natural resources and offering an opening to the Indian Ocean, the last thing on Beijing's mind would be a democratically elected government in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/the-us-dollar-is-shaky-but-let-us-not-dream-of-an-alt-currency-in-a-hurry-579360">The US dollar is shaky, but let us not dream of an alt-currency in a hurry</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>One diplomat predicted in an article discussing the issue last year that China was going back to a business-as-usual mode in Myanmar and increasing support for the military junta. After NLD won power in 2016, it tried to regulate Chinese companies by forcing them to engage with local communities or change their methods. Clearly, doing business with military rulers is a lot easier for China -- and it has been doing so for decades anyway. Of late, Chinese-controlled companies are building a $2.5 billion power plant year Yangon and an economic corridor that includes a $7-billion deep-sea port at Kyaukphyu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India shares borders with both Myanmar and China. The junta's airstrikes come amid Beijing's efforts to describe some places in India's north-eastern Arunachal Pradesh state as part of Tibet, which is another sign of China stretching its dragon paws beyond accepted territory. India is naturally more than concerned. It has to.</p>

<p>All in all, Asia is aflutter because Ukraine sneezed. This is something for the Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue between India, Australia, the US and Japan) to take note. The AUKUS grouping (Australia, UK and the US) is a close cousin that also needs to get engaged on this.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bottom line is simple. If pluralist democracy matters in true principle and global security is linked to that, it is important to view the entire planet as one entity. We need durable peace in Ukraine to ensure stability in Asia. Everything else flows from there. Someone has to strike a delicate balance between economics and geopolitics. Diplomatic credibility matters more than ever before.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

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When Europe sneezes, does Asia catch a cold? This is the big question on my mind after air raids in Myanmar by the ruling military junta against its own opposition this week, marking yet another step in former Burma's backward march to authoritarian rule from a fledgling democracy.

When Europe sneezes, does Asia catch a cold? This is the big question on my mind after air raids in Myanmar by the ruling military junta against its own opposition this week, marking yet another step in former Burma's backward march to authoritarian rule from a fledgling democracy. The United Nations, the United States, and the Association of South-East Nations (ASEAN) have all condemned the airstrikes which are estimated to have killed an estimated 100 people in the Sagaing region where opponents of the military government had gathered for a ceremony. That the region is a stronghold of deposed opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi’s suspended National League for Democracy should indicate where things are going. In February 2021, the ruling generals simply pushed back the Nobel peace prize winner's elected party out of government in a coup even as the world was struggling to crawl out of the COVID-19 pandemic. In an interlinked world old equations are giving way to new uncertainties. President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine has decidedly tilted the balance in such a way that Europe and the United States would obviously be worried more about what happens in Kyiv and Moscow, than in Naypyidaw. That should in turn worry supporters of democracy, East of the Suez. Or, in geopolitical terms, the West in general because behind Myanmar's newfound authoritarianism, one can see a huge Chinese indifference, if not influence. It is usual in politics for some to be emboldened when they see less of a threat that would restrain them from taking some steps. The Ukraine war, coming in the wake of the painful Brexit that saw the UK exit the European Union and an economic crisis in Europe accentuated by the war, has created conditions for the mandarins in Beijing to move forward in increasing their influence across the planet, but most certainly in Asia. ALSO READ | World disorder: Can the Global South define itself? I would certainly link recent peace-making efforts taken by China to make Saudi Arabia and Iran come closer as one step, and the air raids in Myanmar to the super-power vacuum of sorts created in Asia by the Ukraine war. Naypidaw (or Nay Pyi Taw) literally means the Abode of Kings -- and that might be a sign of an authoritarian royalty taking away powers from pro-democracy civilians and common citizens. There was a time in the 1960s when Chairman Mao Ze Dong's communist party wanted his Cultural Revolution to extend to ethnic Chinese people outside of China and that caused anti-China riots in then Burma. But things have changed so much that it is possible to see Myanmar increasingly as an autocratic ally of China than a post-colonial nation edging towards a modern democracy. Chinese investments in Myanmar were under strain during NLD's democratic rule, and there have been threats issued by opposition groups to attack Beijing's assets if China supports military rulers. Beijing has moved nonchalantly since the coup to guard its interests, which include investments backed by a pile of debt. With Myanmar rich in natural resources and offering an opening to the Indian Ocean, the last thing on Beijing's mind would be a democratically elected government in the country. ALSO READ | The US dollar is shaky, but let us not dream of an alt-currency in a hurry One diplomat predicted in an article discussing the issue last year that China was going back to a business-as-usual mode in Myanmar and increasing support for the military junta. After NLD won power in 2016, it tried to regulate Chinese companies by forcing them to engage with local communities or change their methods. Clearly, doing business with military rulers is a lot easier for China -- and it has been doing so for decades anyway. Of late, Chinese-controlled companies are building a $2.5 billion power plant year Yangon and an economic corridor that includes a $7-billion deep-sea port at Kyaukphyu. India shares borders with both Myanmar and China. The junta's airstrikes come amid Beijing's efforts to describe some places in India's north-eastern Arunachal Pradesh state as part of Tibet, which is another sign of China stretching its dragon paws beyond accepted territory. India is naturally more than concerned. It has to. All in all, Asia is aflutter because Ukraine sneezed. This is something for the Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue between India, Australia, the US and Japan) to take note. The AUKUS grouping (Australia, UK and the US) is a close cousin that also needs to get engaged on this. The bottom line is simple. If pluralist democracy matters in true principle and global security is linked to that, it is important to view the entire planet as one entity. We need durable peace in Ukraine to ensure stability in Asia. Everything else flows from there. Someone has to strike a delicate balance between economics and geopolitics. Diplomatic credibility matters more than ever before. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Unintended consequence: Military airstrikes in Myanmar signal Chinese claws sharpened by Ukraine war

<p>Canada on Tuesday (April 11) pledged fresh military support for war-torn Ukraine and imposed new sanctions on Russia. After meeting Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal in Toronto, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that his government would send 21,000 assault rifles, 38 machine guns, and 2.4 million rounds of ammunition to Ukraine and impose sanctions on 14 Russian individuals and 34 entities, including security targets linked to Wagner Group, the news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-hackers-claim-hacking-russian-spy-who-targetted-us-democrats-in-2016-581419">Ukraine hackers claim hacking Russian spy who targetted US Democrats in 2016</a></strong></p>

<p>"We will continue to support Ukraine with everything needed for as long as necessary," Trudeau said. The Canadian prime minister added that Ottawa was also imposing sanctions on nine entities tied to the Belarusian financial sector to further pressure Russia's "enablers in Belarus."</p>

<p>Since January last year, Canada has committed over C$ 8 billion to Ukraine in financial, military, humanitarian, and other assistance, a month before Russia's invasion began.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On February 24 this year, <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-canada-pledges-4-more-leopard-tanks-to-kyiv-imposes-new-sanctions-on-russia-565866">Prime Minister Trudeau announced that his government was sanctioning an additional</a></strong> 192 Russian individuals and entities. These sanctions targeted Russian lawmakers who supported Moscow's offensive in Ukraine, including ministers in Putin's cabinet, the military and defence sector as well as family members of individuals already on the sanctions list of Canada. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukraine's general staff said on Tuesday that Russia pressed on with its offensive in the eastern Donetsk region where several cities and towns came under heavy bombardment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, commander of Ukraine's ground forces, accused Moscow of "scorched earth". Speaking about Bakhmut, Colonel General Syrskyi said, "The enemy switched to so-called scorched earth tactics from Syria. It is destroying buildings and positions with air strikes and artillery fire," Reuters further reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>(With inputs from agencies)</strong></em></p>

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Canada on Tuesday (April 11) pledged fresh military support for war-torn Ukraine and imposed new sanctions on Russia. After meeting Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal in Toronto, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that his government would send 21,000 assault rifles, 38 machine guns, and 2.

Canada on Tuesday (April 11) pledged fresh military support for war-torn Ukraine and imposed new sanctions on Russia. After meeting Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal in Toronto, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that his government would send 21,000 assault rifles, 38 machine guns, and 2.4 million rounds of ammunition to Ukraine and impose sanctions on 14 Russian individuals and 34 entities, including security targets linked to Wagner Group, the news agency Reuters reported. ALSO READ | Ukraine hackers claim hacking Russian spy who targetted US Democrats in 2016 "We will continue to support Ukraine with everything needed for as long as necessary," Trudeau said. The Canadian prime minister added that Ottawa was also imposing sanctions on nine entities tied to the Belarusian financial sector to further pressure Russia's "enablers in Belarus." Since January last year, Canada has committed over C$ 8 billion to Ukraine in financial, military, humanitarian, and other assistance, a month before Russia's invasion began. On February 24 this year, Prime Minister Trudeau announced that his government was sanctioning an additional 192 Russian individuals and entities. These sanctions targeted Russian lawmakers who supported Moscow's offensive in Ukraine, including ministers in Putin's cabinet, the military and defence sector as well as family members of individuals already on the sanctions list of Canada. Meanwhile, Ukraine's general staff said on Tuesday that Russia pressed on with its offensive in the eastern Donetsk region where several cities and towns came under heavy bombardment. Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, commander of Ukraine's ground forces, accused Moscow of "scorched earth". Speaking about Bakhmut, Colonel General Syrskyi said, "The enemy switched to so-called scorched earth tactics from Syria. It is destroying buildings and positions with air strikes and artillery fire," Reuters further reported. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine war: Canada pledges fresh military support for Kyiv, imposes new sanctions on Russia

<p>The United States officials are investigating the apparent leak of highly sensitive military and defence documents as the Pentagon recently said that the leak presents a "very serious" risk to national security. A trove of highly classified military and intelligence documents appeared online, becoming an embarrassment and a headache for America as it released details of secret information linked to the Russia-Ukraine war, Israel's spy agency Mossad, South Korea, and more.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The documents labelled as "Secret" and "Top Secret" started circulating online in March and were on social media platforms such as Twitter, Telegram, Discord, and more. The leak was first reported by The New York Times, but there's a possibility that it&nbsp;could have started as early as January. There were indications that some of the documents could have been altered.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some US officials blamed Russia or pro-Russian elements for the leak, but Moscow said that it could be a move by the US to "deceive" Russia. Deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov told Russian news agencies that Moscow called for an enquiry to probe the documents and check whether the leak was an intentional leak. Ryabkov said, "Since the US is a party to the (Ukraine) conflict and is essentially waging a hybrid war against us, it is possible that such techniques are being used to deceive their opponent, the Russian Federation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>South Korea, an American ally, said that a "significant portion" of leaked documents indicating concerns in Seoul about arms supplies to Ukraine were fake. But despite that, Pentagon officials are still reviewing the documents for validity and the Justice Department has begun an investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Considering the documents are authentic, here are some of the biggest and most damaging revelations from the leaks:&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Details about Ukrainian air defences&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>One document provided information about Ukrainian air defences, which appear to be in deep crisis. The air defence systems have emerged as one of Ukraine's key strengths to counter Russian missile and drone strikes. Ukraine even urged the allies to supply fighter jets to help in its fight against Russian aggression.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Documents show that the munitions for Soviet-era air defence systems deployed by Ukraine will soon run out and a document dated February indicates that the S300 missile defence system is expected to run out of munitions by May this year and the SA-11 Gadfly system at the end of March.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media outlets and analysts have said that the S300 missile defence system and SA-11 Gadfly system make up about 89 per cent of Ukraine's air defences.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The documents suggest that Ukraine could only resist a few more missile strikes by Russia. One document highlights how international efforts to build up Kyiv's military forces.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Did Mossad support domestic protests in Israel?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The US is accused of spying after the content of leaked documents was made public. One document reportedly revealed that the Mossad intelligence agency was encouraging protests against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plans to tighten controls on the supreme court. The controversial Israeli judicial reform plan would have given lawmakers substantially more control over the court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Netanyahu's office on Sunday denied the allegations and labelled the document as "mendacious and without any foundation whatsoever".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-intelligence-leak-can-be-fake-meant-to-mislead-russia-581770">US intelligence leak can be fake, meant to mislead: Russia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>What were South Korea's concerns?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The Pentagon leaks also suggest the US could have been spying on its key allies, including South Korea. Seoul downplayed the importance of the leaked documents as President Yoon Suk Yeol's office claimed that "a significant number" of the documents were fake and his national security adviser said there were no "malicious intentions" in the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, South Korea's opposition urged the government to investigate the alleged spying on Yoon's national security advisers as part of an effort to secure arms supplies for Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Democratic Party in South Korea said: "We deeply regret that the United States’ top intelligence agency has been carrying out illegal espionage activities against our allies."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lee Jae-myung, the head of the opposition Democratic party, said on Wednesday (April 12): "The government must get to the bottom of eavesdropping allegations and if they are found to be true, it must get an official apology and guarantee that it won't do it again from the US."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>Did Egypt want to supply Russia with rockets?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>A report by The Post mentioned that one document said Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi ordered the production of 40,000 rockets for shipment to Russia. The documents also mentioned that the president apparently told officials to keep it secret to "avoid problems with the West." It could be an issue for the US as America has stood firmly with Ukraine and supplied massive military equipment and humanitarian aid.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the White House national security spokesman John Kirby pushed back against the report. Kirby told reporters: "We've seen no indication that Egypt is providing lethal weaponry capabilities to Russia. Egypt is a significant security partner and remains so."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Did UAE agree to work with Russian spy agents?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Another document revealed that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) planned to work with Russian spies in their operations against the US and UK intelligence agencies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A review of the document by&nbsp;The Associated Press suggested that Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) claimed that UAE security officials agreed to the plan. The allegation could be damaging as the UAE is a strategic partner for the US in the Middle East, but its close ties with Russia are also evident.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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The United States officials are investigating the apparent leak of highly sensitive military and defence documents as the Pentagon recently said that the leak presents a "very serious" risk to national security.

The United States officials are investigating the apparent leak of highly sensitive military and defence documents as the Pentagon recently said that the leak presents a "very serious" risk to national security. A trove of highly classified military and intelligence documents appeared online, becoming an embarrassment and a headache for America as it released details of secret information linked to the Russia-Ukraine war, Israel's spy agency Mossad, South Korea, and more. The documents labelled as "Secret" and "Top Secret" started circulating online in March and were on social media platforms such as Twitter, Telegram, Discord, and more. The leak was first reported by The New York Times, but there's a possibility that it could have started as early as January. There were indications that some of the documents could have been altered. Some US officials blamed Russia or pro-Russian elements for the leak, but Moscow said that it could be a move by the US to "deceive" Russia. Deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov told Russian news agencies that Moscow called for an enquiry to probe the documents and check whether the leak was an intentional leak. Ryabkov said, "Since the US is a party to the (Ukraine) conflict and is essentially waging a hybrid war against us, it is possible that such techniques are being used to deceive their opponent, the Russian Federation." South Korea, an American ally, said that a "significant portion" of leaked documents indicating concerns in Seoul about arms supplies to Ukraine were fake. But despite that, Pentagon officials are still reviewing the documents for validity and the Justice Department has begun an investigation. Considering the documents are authentic, here are some of the biggest and most damaging revelations from the leaks: Details about Ukrainian air defences One document provided information about Ukrainian air defences, which appear to be in deep crisis. The air defence systems have emerged as one of Ukraine's key strengths to counter Russian missile and drone strikes. Ukraine even urged the allies to supply fighter jets to help in its fight against Russian aggression. Documents show that the munitions for Soviet-era air defence systems deployed by Ukraine will soon run out and a document dated February indicates that the S300 missile defence system is expected to run out of munitions by May this year and the SA-11 Gadfly system at the end of March. Media outlets and analysts have said that the S300 missile defence system and SA-11 Gadfly system make up about 89 per cent of Ukraine's air defences. The documents suggest that Ukraine could only resist a few more missile strikes by Russia. One document highlights how international efforts to build up Kyiv's military forces. Did Mossad support domestic protests in Israel? The US is accused of spying after the content of leaked documents was made public. One document reportedly revealed that the Mossad intelligence agency was encouraging protests against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plans to tighten controls on the supreme court. The controversial Israeli judicial reform plan would have given lawmakers substantially more control over the court. Netanyahu's office on Sunday denied the allegations and labelled the document as "mendacious and without any foundation whatsoever". ALSO READ | US intelligence leak can be fake, meant to mislead: Russia What were South Korea's concerns? The Pentagon leaks also suggest the US could have been spying on its key allies, including South Korea. Seoul downplayed the importance of the leaked documents as President Yoon Suk Yeol's office claimed that "a significant number" of the documents were fake and his national security adviser said there were no "malicious intentions" in the incident. Meanwhile, South Korea's opposition urged the government to investigate the alleged spying on Yoon's national security advisers as part of an effort to secure arms supplies for Ukraine. The Democratic Party in South Korea said: "We deeply regret that the United States’ top intelligence agency has been carrying out illegal espionage activities against our allies." Lee Jae-myung, the head of the opposition Democratic party, said on Wednesday (April 12): "The government must get to the bottom of eavesdropping allegations and if they are found to be true, it must get an official apology and guarantee that it won't do it again from the US." Watch this report: × Did Egypt want to supply Russia with rockets? A report by The Post mentioned that one document said Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi ordered the production of 40,000 rockets for shipment to Russia. The documents also mentioned that the president apparently told officials to keep it secret to "avoid problems with the West." It could be an issue for the US as America has stood firmly with Ukraine and supplied massive military equipment and humanitarian aid. But the White House national security spokesman John Kirby pushed back against the report. Kirby told reporters: "We've seen no indication that Egypt is providing lethal weaponry capabilities to Russia. Egypt is a significant security partner and remains so." Did UAE agree to work with Russian spy agents? Another document revealed that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) planned to work with Russian spies in their operations against the US and UK intelligence agencies. A review of the document by The Associated Press suggested that Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) claimed that UAE security officials agreed to the plan. The allegation could be damaging as the UAE is a strategic partner for the US in the Middle East, but its close ties with Russia are also evident. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: From Israel to Egypt, the most damaging revelations from US documents leaks

Gravitas: Horrific beheading video emerges from Russia Ukraine war

A video allegedly showing a Ukrainian prisoner of war being beheaded has surfaced on social media and is garnering reactions from across the world. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky slammed Russian "beasts" for the video and vowed justice for his country.

Kyiv accuses Russia of war crimes after video appears to show Ukrainian POW's beheading

The UK is among a number of countries with military special forces operating inside Ukraine, according to one of dozens of documents leaked online.

Ukraine war: Leak shows Western special forces on the ground

<p>Serbia, the only country in Europe that has refused to sanction Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, agreed to supply arms to Kyiv or has sent them already, according to a classified Pentagon document.</p>

<p>The document, a summary of European governments' responses to Ukraine's requests for military training and "lethal aid" or weapons, was among dozens of classified documents posted online in recent weeks in what could be the most serious leak of U.S. secrets in years.</p>

<p>Entitled "Europe|Response to Ongoing Russia-Ukraine Conflict," the document in chart form lists the "assessed positions" of 38 European governments in response to Ukraine's requests for military assistance.</p>

<p>The chart showed that Serbia declined to provide training to Ukrainian forces, but had committed to sending lethal aid or had supplied it already. It also said Serbia had the political will and military ability to provide weapons to Ukraine in the future.</p>

<p>The document is marked Secret and NOFORN, prohibiting its distribution to foreign intelligence services and militaries. It is dated March 2, and embossed with the seal of the office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.</p>

<p>Reuters could not independently verify the document's authenticity.</p>

<p>Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic's office and the Ukrainian embassy did not immediately respond to a request for comment.</p>

<p>The Pentagon also did not immediately respond to Reuters questions about the document's reference to Serbia and has previously declined to comment on any of the leaked documents.</p>

<p>Vucic's government has professed neutrality in the Ukraine war, despite the country's deep historic, economic and cultural ties with Russia.</p>

<p>"If this document is accurate, it either shows Vucic's duplicity vis a vis Russia or he's under enormous pressure from Washington to deliver weapons to Ukraine," said Janusz Bugajski, an Eastern European expert with the Jamestown Foundation, a foreign policy institute.</p>

<p>The Justice Department is investigating the leak, while the Pentagon is assessing the damage done to U.S. national security.</p>

<p>The Pentagon chart divided the responses to Ukraine's requests for aid into four categories: countries that had committed to provide training and lethal aid; countries that had already provided training, lethal aid or both; countries with the military ability and the political will "to provide future lethal aid."</p>

<p>Austria and Malta were the only two countries marked "No" in all four categories.</p>

<p>The disclosure of the chart comes just over a month after documents posted in a pro-Russia channel on the Telegram global messaging app purportedly showed the shipment by a Serbian arms maker of 122mm Grad ground-to-ground rockets to Kyiv in November. The documents included a shipment manifest and a Ukrainian government end-user certificate.</p>

<p>Moscow said in March it had asked Belgrade for an official explanation of the alleged deliveries, the state-run TASS news agency quoted Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova as saying.</p>

<p>Arms manufacturer Krusik Corp. of Valjevo denied providing rockets or other weaponry to Ukraine. Vucic called the allegations "a notorious lie."</p>

<p>"We didn't export any weapons or ammunition to Russia or Ukraine," he said during a March 5 visit to Qatar.</p>

<p>Reuters could not independently confirm the authenticity of the shipment documentation posted on Telegram.</p>

<p>Since the war began in February last year, Vucic has tried to balance close ties with Moscow with his goal of joining the European Union.</p>

<p>But Serbia is the only holdout among Europe's 44 countries in imposing sanctions on Russia.</p>

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Serbia, the only country in Europe that has refused to sanction Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, agreed to supply arms to Kyiv or has sent them already, according to a classified Pentagon document.

Serbia, the only country in Europe that has refused to sanction Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, agreed to supply arms to Kyiv or has sent them already, according to a classified Pentagon document. The document, a summary of European governments' responses to Ukraine's requests for military training and "lethal aid" or weapons, was among dozens of classified documents posted online in recent weeks in what could be the most serious leak of U.S. secrets in years. Entitled "Europe|Response to Ongoing Russia-Ukraine Conflict," the document in chart form lists the "assessed positions" of 38 European governments in response to Ukraine's requests for military assistance. The chart showed that Serbia declined to provide training to Ukrainian forces, but had committed to sending lethal aid or had supplied it already. It also said Serbia had the political will and military ability to provide weapons to Ukraine in the future. The document is marked Secret and NOFORN, prohibiting its distribution to foreign intelligence services and militaries. It is dated March 2, and embossed with the seal of the office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Reuters could not independently verify the document's authenticity. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic's office and the Ukrainian embassy did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Pentagon also did not immediately respond to Reuters questions about the document's reference to Serbia and has previously declined to comment on any of the leaked documents. Vucic's government has professed neutrality in the Ukraine war, despite the country's deep historic, economic and cultural ties with Russia. "If this document is accurate, it either shows Vucic's duplicity vis a vis Russia or he's under enormous pressure from Washington to deliver weapons to Ukraine," said Janusz Bugajski, an Eastern European expert with the Jamestown Foundation, a foreign policy institute. The Justice Department is investigating the leak, while the Pentagon is assessing the damage done to U.S. national security. The Pentagon chart divided the responses to Ukraine's requests for aid into four categories: countries that had committed to provide training and lethal aid; countries that had already provided training, lethal aid or both; countries with the military ability and the political will "to provide future lethal aid." Austria and Malta were the only two countries marked "No" in all four categories. The disclosure of the chart comes just over a month after documents posted in a pro-Russia channel on the Telegram global messaging app purportedly showed the shipment by a Serbian arms maker of 122mm Grad ground-to-ground rockets to Kyiv in November. The documents included a shipment manifest and a Ukrainian government end-user certificate. Moscow said in March it had asked Belgrade for an official explanation of the alleged deliveries, the state-run TASS news agency quoted Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova as saying. Arms manufacturer Krusik Corp. of Valjevo denied providing rockets or other weaponry to Ukraine. Vucic called the allegations "a notorious lie." "We didn't export any weapons or ammunition to Russia or Ukraine," he said during a March 5 visit to Qatar. Reuters could not independently confirm the authenticity of the shipment documentation posted on Telegram. Since the war began in February last year, Vucic has tried to balance close ties with Moscow with his goal of joining the European Union. But Serbia is the only holdout among Europe's 44 countries in imposing sanctions on Russia. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Leaked US intel document claims Serbia agreed to arm Ukraine

<p>Ukraine's first deputy foreign minister Emine Dzhaparova referred to Pakistan and China as she said that series of events leading to Russia's invasion of Ukraine can serve as an example of how to handle "difficult neighbours".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dzhaparova suggested that India can play a bigger role to persuade the warring nations to end the conflict as she highlighted the cooperation between Kyiv and New Delhi, and also called India a 'Vishwaguru'—home to some of the spiritual gurus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dzhaparova: "Ukraine really wants India to come closer to it. We had different pages in history but now Ukraine is gaining independence. We are now capable of being the subject, not the object."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dzhaparova was speaking during the talk hosted by the Indian Council of World Affairs on "Russia's War In Ukraine: Why The World Should Care" in New Delhi on Tuesday amid Kyiv's request to the world to send humanitarian and military aid to counter Russian aggression.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Her visit became the first by a Ukrainian official to visit India ever since the Russia-Ukraine war started last year in February. She also insisted that both nations must consider deepening the relationship.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/muslims-in-india-finance-minister-slams-negative-western-perception-581184">Nirmala Sitharaman gives befitting reply on negative Western 'perception' of Muslims in India</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The minister said, "India is witnessing visionary changes and it may take some time for it to build new relations with Ukraine and the ties should be based on a 'pragmatic and balanced approach'".&nbsp;</p>

<p>She added: "Our president has been constantly saying that we have to fight for our rights without stepping on the rights of others. India in many ways has a lot in common with Ukraine. There is huge and untapped potential in our bilateral relations. It is only a start in our dialogue."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia Ukraine War: Both sides endure heavy casualties, Bakhmut remains focal point&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Dzhaparova on Ukraine's relationship with Pakistan</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Dzhaparova also commented on Ukraine's relationship with Pakistan as the war-torn nation has reportedly received military equipment and other aid during the course of the war. A recent report by the Economic Times claimed that Pakistan will ship 230 defence containers this month from the Karachi Port via two vessels MV Bokram and MV Kherson.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the minister said, "The relationship with Pakistan was never directed against the relationship with India. I know that there are some sensitive messages about military contracts, but let me reiterate that we had contracts since the 90s..two decades ago."&nbsp;</p>

<p>She also said that Ukraine has high expectations from India's presidency of G20 and urges to consider Kyiv's participation. She said, "Today India plays a very important role in the world. The presidency of G20 brings additional responsibility. India may take this leadership by involving Ukraine in its agenda and helping Ukraine to bring its story. People-to-people contact is the best way to communicate."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukraine's first deputy foreign minister Emine Dzhaparova referred to Pakistan and China as she said that series of events leading to Russia's invasion of Ukraine can serve as an example of how to handle "difficult neighbours".

Ukraine's first deputy foreign minister Emine Dzhaparova referred to Pakistan and China as she said that series of events leading to Russia's invasion of Ukraine can serve as an example of how to handle "difficult neighbours". Dzhaparova suggested that India can play a bigger role to persuade the warring nations to end the conflict as she highlighted the cooperation between Kyiv and New Delhi, and also called India a 'Vishwaguru'—home to some of the spiritual gurus. Dzhaparova: "Ukraine really wants India to come closer to it. We had different pages in history but now Ukraine is gaining independence. We are now capable of being the subject, not the object." Dzhaparova was speaking during the talk hosted by the Indian Council of World Affairs on "Russia's War In Ukraine: Why The World Should Care" in New Delhi on Tuesday amid Kyiv's request to the world to send humanitarian and military aid to counter Russian aggression. Her visit became the first by a Ukrainian official to visit India ever since the Russia-Ukraine war started last year in February. She also insisted that both nations must consider deepening the relationship. ALSO READ | Nirmala Sitharaman gives befitting reply on negative Western 'perception' of Muslims in India The minister said, "India is witnessing visionary changes and it may take some time for it to build new relations with Ukraine and the ties should be based on a 'pragmatic and balanced approach'". She added: "Our president has been constantly saying that we have to fight for our rights without stepping on the rights of others. India in many ways has a lot in common with Ukraine. There is huge and untapped potential in our bilateral relations. It is only a start in our dialogue." WATCH | Russia Ukraine War: Both sides endure heavy casualties, Bakhmut remains focal point × Dzhaparova on Ukraine's relationship with Pakistan Dzhaparova also commented on Ukraine's relationship with Pakistan as the war-torn nation has reportedly received military equipment and other aid during the course of the war. A recent report by the Economic Times claimed that Pakistan will ship 230 defence containers this month from the Karachi Port via two vessels MV Bokram and MV Kherson. Meanwhile, the minister said, "The relationship with Pakistan was never directed against the relationship with India. I know that there are some sensitive messages about military contracts, but let me reiterate that we had contracts since the 90s..two decades ago." She also said that Ukraine has high expectations from India's presidency of G20 and urges to consider Kyiv's participation. She said, "Today India plays a very important role in the world. The presidency of G20 brings additional responsibility. India may take this leadership by involving Ukraine in its agenda and helping Ukraine to bring its story. People-to-people contact is the best way to communicate." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukrainian minister weighs in on what India can learn about 'difficult neighbours' from ongoing war

<p>The major leak of classified US documents, which has caused concerns among international governments, might have started in a chatroom on a social media platform popular with games. According to a report by the Associated Press on Tuesday (April 11), a discussion held on Discord originally to talk about a range of topics turned to the ongoing war in Ukraine. One member of this chat said that an unidentified poster shared documents that were allegedly classified, first typing them out with the poster’s thoughts, and then beginning to post images of papers with folds in them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The posts appeared to have gone unnoticed outside of the chat until a few weeks back when they started circulating more widely on social media. The records provided startling and surprisingly timely details of the US and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) assistance to Ukraine. The report said the records also provided clues about efforts to assist Ukraine in its war with Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-the-us-is-worried-about-latest-leak-of-secret-documents-581016">Explained: Why the US is worried about latest leak of secret documents</a></strong></p>

<p>The images of the documents leaked on Discord included a top-secret analysis of deepening intelligence ties between Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) and agencies in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Citing signals intelligence, the March analysis said that FBS officers were caught claiming that the UAE agreed with Moscow to work together against US and UK intelligence agencies. The news agency also saw an analysis of what might happen in the Ukraine war in certain scenarios if Russian President Vladimir Putin or Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky were to die.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Associated Press interviewed a person who he said was a member of this Discord chat group. The person, 18, did not wish to be identified. Bellingcat, a Netherlands-based investigative journalism group, also spoke to this person and two others in the chatroom called “Thug Shaker Central.”</p>

<p>Last Saturday, Bellingcat said that documents from the chatroom appear to have been shared in another chatroom called “WowMao.” And from WowMao, the documents spread widely and were reported by many media outlets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 18-year-old Discord user told the news agency that he was on a call with others — including the person who for months had been posting documents he or she said were classified- when the news came out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We all just kind of lost it. We couldn’t believe what was happening," he said and pointed out he wanted to clear the reputation of a third person, who uses the screenname “Lucca.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Posts from Lucca featuring many of the documents were widely shared on social media. The poster said that Lucca is just a kid and "was just consistently posting it to mess with people.”</p>

<p>He declined to identify the original uploader of these documents and referred to the uploader as "The O.G.". The poster further said that the person who first posted the documents, did not appear to be driven by ideology or to expose government secrets broadly, but rather to impress people in their group.</p>

<p><em><strong>(With inputs from agencies)</strong></em></p>

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The major leak of classified US documents, which has caused concerns among international governments, might have started in a chatroom on a social media platform popular with games.

The major leak of classified US documents, which has caused concerns among international governments, might have started in a chatroom on a social media platform popular with games. According to a report by the Associated Press on Tuesday (April 11), a discussion held on Discord originally to talk about a range of topics turned to the ongoing war in Ukraine. One member of this chat said that an unidentified poster shared documents that were allegedly classified, first typing them out with the poster’s thoughts, and then beginning to post images of papers with folds in them. The posts appeared to have gone unnoticed outside of the chat until a few weeks back when they started circulating more widely on social media. The records provided startling and surprisingly timely details of the US and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) assistance to Ukraine. The report said the records also provided clues about efforts to assist Ukraine in its war with Russia. ALSO READ | Explained: Why the US is worried about latest leak of secret documents The images of the documents leaked on Discord included a top-secret analysis of deepening intelligence ties between Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) and agencies in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Citing signals intelligence, the March analysis said that FBS officers were caught claiming that the UAE agreed with Moscow to work together against US and UK intelligence agencies. The news agency also saw an analysis of what might happen in the Ukraine war in certain scenarios if Russian President Vladimir Putin or Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky were to die. The Associated Press interviewed a person who he said was a member of this Discord chat group. The person, 18, did not wish to be identified. Bellingcat, a Netherlands-based investigative journalism group, also spoke to this person and two others in the chatroom called “Thug Shaker Central.” Last Saturday, Bellingcat said that documents from the chatroom appear to have been shared in another chatroom called “WowMao.” And from WowMao, the documents spread widely and were reported by many media outlets. The 18-year-old Discord user told the news agency that he was on a call with others — including the person who for months had been posting documents he or she said were classified- when the news came out. "We all just kind of lost it. We couldn’t believe what was happening," he said and pointed out he wanted to clear the reputation of a third person, who uses the screenname “Lucca.” Posts from Lucca featuring many of the documents were widely shared on social media. The poster said that Lucca is just a kid and "was just consistently posting it to mess with people.” He declined to identify the original uploader of these documents and referred to the uploader as "The O.G.". The poster further said that the person who first posted the documents, did not appear to be driven by ideology or to expose government secrets broadly, but rather to impress people in their group. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Major leak of classified US documents may have started in chatroom for gamers: Report

<p>Does the US have another WikiLeaks-like situation at hand? Well if not in terms of&nbsp;size, the latest problem is definitely comparable, in security implications, to havoc caused in 2013 when Julian Assange's WikiLeaks made more than 700,000 classified documents public. The latest leaked document count is just above 100. But it has come at a time when US and the world is facing challeges on multiple fronts.</p>

<p>In recent weeks, these documents surfaced on the internet after reportedly appearing for the first time on 4Chan and Discord.</p>

<h2><strong>What are these leaked documents about?</strong></h2>

<p>These documents, many of which are marked 'secret' or even 'top secret' have details and plans about Ukraine war, Middle East, China, South Korea and more. Unlike WikiLeaks, the document leak this time has come when a former global superpower (Russia) has done what was previously unthinkable in modern times and has invaded its neighbour stoking a full-scale conflict. China is much stronger than it was a decade ago. American influence in the Middle East/ West Asia is seen by many to be waning. And the country is compelled to do a balancing act in order to firefight situations in several countries across the world.</p>

<p>Given all this, when the US gameplan is leaked in such a blatant manner, it is sure to upset its delicate manoeuvring in global politics.</p>

<p>The New York Times (NYT) reported that some of the leaked documents contain details about Ukrainian air defences, something Russia would be eager to learn about. The documents also reportedly mention South Korea's secret plan to provide 330,000 rounds of ammunition to Ukraine. NYT has said that documents reveal how the US is deeply connected with day-to-day conduct of the Ukraine war.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/conflicting-accounts-emerge-from-bakhmut-battleground-ukraine-says-russia-using-scorched-earth-tactic-580999">Conflicting accounts emerge from Bakhmut battleground; Ukraine says Russia using 'scorched-earth' tactic</a></strong></p>

<p>Reuters said that it had reviewed more than 50 leaked documents with 'secret' and 'top secret' written on it. On of these documents reportedly reveals how Ukrainian S-300 missile systems will be depleted by May 2 at current usage rate.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | US scrambles to find source of leaked Ukraine intel</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another document reportedly says that Israeli spy agency Mossad is encouraging people to protest against Prime Minister Bejamin Netanyahu as he attempts to assert control on the country's judiciary.</p>

<p>The leak has also brought to the fore US pressure on South Korea to provide ammunition to Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>Why the leak worries the US?</strong></h2>

<p>US currently has fingers in many pies around the world. Besides war in Ukraine, America is entangled militarily or diplomatically in other conflict zones like Syria, Yemen, Iraq, Libya etc. Iran and Saudi Arabia are increasingly being seen to be exiting US orbit as it was evident from China-brokered peace between the two regional powers. The North Korea and Taiwan issues are&nbsp;ever-present.</p>

<p>Given all this, the leak of American game-plan has a potential to limit its ability to navigate issues aroud the world. This might give America's adversaries opportunity to fine-tune their strategy.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is behind the latest leak?</strong></h2>

<p>There are only speculations at this point. Whenever it comes to hack or leak in America, the two countries that find immediate mention are Russia and China.</p>

<p>However, this time, American agencies and ministries are considering the possibility that the leak may have caused from inside the country.</p>

<p>"The focus now is on this being a U.S. leak, as many of the documents were only in U.S. hands," Michael Mulroy, a former senior Pentagon official, told Reuters in an interview.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Pentagon leak says Kyiv's air defence could run out of missiles</strong></p>

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<p>However, Reuters said that US officials aren't yet fully eliminating the possibility of a Russian angle to the saga.</p>

<p>In a statement on Sunday, the Pentagon said it was reviewing the validity of the photographed documents that "appear to contain sensitive and highly classified material."</p>

<p>The Pentagon has referred the issue to the Department of Justice, which has opened a criminal investigation.</p>

<h2><strong>How different is the leak from WikiLeaks in 2013?</strong></h2>

<p>Any leak of secret diplomatic talk or secret documents has ramifications. US and the world hasn't forgotten the shockwaves WikiLeaks created in 2013. Leak of more than 700,000 documents certainly has the potential to completely destroy the strategies of a nation.</p>

<p>After WikiLeaks, then US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton had expressed fears that world will now be scared of talking to US diplomats for the fear of conversation being leaked. Similar opinions were expressed about United States' ability to gather intelligence in the future.</p>

<p>Leaks caused by Bradley Manning and Edward Snowden were borne out of ideological motives. Both of them had said that they wanted to bring to light what they thought were transgressions by the United States.</p>

<p>“This time it doesn’t look ideological,” said Dmitri Alperovitch, the Russia-born chairman of Silverado Policy Accelerator, best known for pioneering work in cybersecurity. Alperovitch was quoted by The New York Times.</p>

<p>NYT said that the first appearance of some of the leaked documents was on some gaming platforms.</p>

<p>So did a few gamers, wanting to&nbsp;correct each other, stoke the entire thing while fiercely debating the Ukraine war? At this point in time at least, we do not know for sure.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Does the US have another WikiLeaks-like situation at hand? Well if not in terms of size, the latest problem is definitely comparable, in security implications, to havoc caused in 2013 when Julian Assange's WikiLeaks made more than 700,000 classified documents public.

Does the US have another WikiLeaks-like situation at hand? Well if not in terms of size, the latest problem is definitely comparable, in security implications, to havoc caused in 2013 when Julian Assange's WikiLeaks made more than 700,000 classified documents public. The latest leaked document count is just above 100. But it has come at a time when US and the world is facing challeges on multiple fronts. In recent weeks, these documents surfaced on the internet after reportedly appearing for the first time on 4Chan and Discord. What are these leaked documents about? These documents, many of which are marked 'secret' or even 'top secret' have details and plans about Ukraine war, Middle East, China, South Korea and more. Unlike WikiLeaks, the document leak this time has come when a former global superpower (Russia) has done what was previously unthinkable in modern times and has invaded its neighbour stoking a full-scale conflict. China is much stronger than it was a decade ago. American influence in the Middle East/ West Asia is seen by many to be waning. And the country is compelled to do a balancing act in order to firefight situations in several countries across the world. Given all this, when the US gameplan is leaked in such a blatant manner, it is sure to upset its delicate manoeuvring in global politics. The New York Times (NYT) reported that some of the leaked documents contain details about Ukrainian air defences, something Russia would be eager to learn about. The documents also reportedly mention South Korea's secret plan to provide 330,000 rounds of ammunition to Ukraine. NYT has said that documents reveal how the US is deeply connected with day-to-day conduct of the Ukraine war. Also Read | Conflicting accounts emerge from Bakhmut battleground; Ukraine says Russia using 'scorched-earth' tactic Reuters said that it had reviewed more than 50 leaked documents with 'secret' and 'top secret' written on it. On of these documents reportedly reveals how Ukrainian S-300 missile systems will be depleted by May 2 at current usage rate. Watch | US scrambles to find source of leaked Ukraine intel × Another document reportedly says that Israeli spy agency Mossad is encouraging people to protest against Prime Minister Bejamin Netanyahu as he attempts to assert control on the country's judiciary. The leak has also brought to the fore US pressure on South Korea to provide ammunition to Ukraine. Why the leak worries the US? US currently has fingers in many pies around the world. Besides war in Ukraine, America is entangled militarily or diplomatically in other conflict zones like Syria, Yemen, Iraq, Libya etc. Iran and Saudi Arabia are increasingly being seen to be exiting US orbit as it was evident from China-brokered peace between the two regional powers. The North Korea and Taiwan issues are ever-present. Given all this, the leak of American game-plan has a potential to limit its ability to navigate issues aroud the world. This might give America's adversaries opportunity to fine-tune their strategy. Who is behind the latest leak? There are only speculations at this point. Whenever it comes to hack or leak in America, the two countries that find immediate mention are Russia and China. However, this time, American agencies and ministries are considering the possibility that the leak may have caused from inside the country. "The focus now is on this being a U.S. leak, as many of the documents were only in U.S. hands," Michael Mulroy, a former senior Pentagon official, told Reuters in an interview. Watch | Pentagon leak says Kyiv's air defence could run out of missiles × However, Reuters said that US officials aren't yet fully eliminating the possibility of a Russian angle to the saga. In a statement on Sunday, the Pentagon said it was reviewing the validity of the photographed documents that "appear to contain sensitive and highly classified material." The Pentagon has referred the issue to the Department of Justice, which has opened a criminal investigation. How different is the leak from WikiLeaks in 2013? Any leak of secret diplomatic talk or secret documents has ramifications. US and the world hasn't forgotten the shockwaves WikiLeaks created in 2013. Leak of more than 700,000 documents certainly has the potential to completely destroy the strategies of a nation. After WikiLeaks, then US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton had expressed fears that world will now be scared of talking to US diplomats for the fear of conversation being leaked. Similar opinions were expressed about United States' ability to gather intelligence in the future. Leaks caused by Bradley Manning and Edward Snowden were borne out of ideological motives. Both of them had said that they wanted to bring to light what they thought were transgressions by the United States. “This time it doesn’t look ideological,” said Dmitri Alperovitch, the Russia-born chairman of Silverado Policy Accelerator, best known for pioneering work in cybersecurity. Alperovitch was quoted by The New York Times. NYT said that the first appearance of some of the leaked documents was on some gaming platforms. So did a few gamers, wanting to correct each other, stoke the entire thing while fiercely debating the Ukraine war? At this point in time at least, we do not know for sure. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Explained: Why the US is worried about latest leak of secret documents

<p>Pope Francis presided over the Easter Mass on Sunday and called for peace amid the raging conflict in Ukraine and the recent escalation in violence between Israel and Palestine. The religious leader expressed "deep concern" over the recent flare-up in violence globally.</p>

<p>While addressing a crowd of some 100,000 people gathered in Saint Peter's Square in the Vatican City, he said that the renewed violence "threatens the desired climate of trust and mutual respect needed to resume dialogue."</p>

<p>"Help the beloved Ukrainian people on their journey towards peace, and shed the light of Easter upon the people of Russia," he said.</p>

<p>"Comfort the wounded and all those who have lost loved ones because of the war, and grant that prisoners may return safe and sound to their families."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-says-sex-is-one-of-the-most-beautiful-things-in-a-documentary-579652"><strong>Pope says sex is 'one of the most beautiful things' in a documentary</strong></a></p>

<p>He also drew attention to conflicts around the world, from Syria to the Democratic Republic of Congo, and offered prayers for victims of the earthquake in Turkey and Syria.</p>

<p>This week, as the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, the Jewish Passover and Christian Easter have coincided, a&nbsp;surge in violence and unrest between Israel and Palestinians dominated the news cycle worldwide.</p>

<p>The pope called for a resumption in dialogue to ensure peace "in the Holy City (of Jerusalem) and in the entire region."</p>

<p>On Wednesday, Israeli police stormed the prayer hall of Al-Aqsa mosque, Islam's third-holiest site, in a pre-dawn raid aimed at dislodging "law-breaking youths and masked agitators" they said had barricaded themselves inside.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Vatican: Pope Francis to be hospitalised for days for lung infection</strong></p>

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<p>The next day, more than 30 rockets were fired from Lebanese soil into Israel by Palestinian groups.</p>

<p>Israel then bombarded Gaza and southern Lebanon, targeting "terror infrastructures" that it said belonged to the Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 86-year-old pope has returned to his duties in Vatican after a recent stay in hospital following a bout of bronchitis. On Saturday evening, he presided over the Vigil mass in Saint Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, a two-and-a-half-hour ceremony performed before 8,000 people.</p>

<p>On Friday evening however, he stayed away from the Good Friday "Way of the Cross" service as a precaution because of the intense cold, the Vatican said. It was for the first time that he missed the ceremony during his papacy.</p>

<p>(<em>With inputs from agencies</em>)</p>

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Pope Francis presided over the Easter Mass on Sunday and called for peace amid the raging conflict in Ukraine and the recent escalation in violence between Israel and Palestine.

Pope Francis presided over the Easter Mass on Sunday and called for peace amid the raging conflict in Ukraine and the recent escalation in violence between Israel and Palestine. The religious leader expressed "deep concern" over the recent flare-up in violence globally. While addressing a crowd of some 100,000 people gathered in Saint Peter's Square in the Vatican City, he said that the renewed violence "threatens the desired climate of trust and mutual respect needed to resume dialogue." "Help the beloved Ukrainian people on their journey towards peace, and shed the light of Easter upon the people of Russia," he said. "Comfort the wounded and all those who have lost loved ones because of the war, and grant that prisoners may return safe and sound to their families." ALSO READ | Pope says sex is 'one of the most beautiful things' in a documentary He also drew attention to conflicts around the world, from Syria to the Democratic Republic of Congo, and offered prayers for victims of the earthquake in Turkey and Syria. This week, as the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, the Jewish Passover and Christian Easter have coincided, a surge in violence and unrest between Israel and Palestinians dominated the news cycle worldwide. The pope called for a resumption in dialogue to ensure peace "in the Holy City (of Jerusalem) and in the entire region." On Wednesday, Israeli police stormed the prayer hall of Al-Aqsa mosque, Islam's third-holiest site, in a pre-dawn raid aimed at dislodging "law-breaking youths and masked agitators" they said had barricaded themselves inside. ALSO WATCH | Vatican: Pope Francis to be hospitalised for days for lung infection × The next day, more than 30 rockets were fired from Lebanese soil into Israel by Palestinian groups. Israel then bombarded Gaza and southern Lebanon, targeting "terror infrastructures" that it said belonged to the Hamas. The 86-year-old pope has returned to his duties in Vatican after a recent stay in hospital following a bout of bronchitis. On Saturday evening, he presided over the Vigil mass in Saint Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, a two-and-a-half-hour ceremony performed before 8,000 people. On Friday evening however, he stayed away from the Good Friday "Way of the Cross" service as a precaution because of the intense cold, the Vatican said. It was for the first time that he missed the ceremony during his papacy. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Easter Mass 2023: Pope Francis calls for peace in Ukraine, Palestine amid raging conflicts

<p>Russia annexed the Crimea peninsula from Ukraine in 2014, but it always remained a matter of contention between Moscow and the West. The region and its fate were discussed multiple times during the course of Ukraine's invasion by Russia as experts and analysts see uncanny similarities between the two series of incidents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, news outlet Al Jazeera did an analysis of satellite images of Crimea which revealed that the Russian forces are fortifying the Crimean peninsula. It suggests that Russia is preparing for a possible Ukrainian attack aimed at recapturing it. The news report mentioned that such military movements indicate that any attempt will be difficult and deadly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report also mentioned that an investigation by its Sanad news verification and monitoring unit discovered that a fortified barrier was seen at the Crimean border and the surrounding areas between February and March.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-intel-leak-includes-ukraine-war-mossad-spy-agency-and-more-is-america-spying-on-allies-580835">US intel leak includes Ukraine war, Mossad details: Is America spying on allies?</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Al Jazeera report also noted that the images provided to Sanad by SkySat and Planet.com further revealed that the construction and expansion of several significant military bases took place during the same period.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Images that were taken on April 1 also show that authorities in Crimea have set up a sea barrier at a dock of the Russian Black Sea Fleet in the Sevastopol port, in addition to several new buildings and infrastructure developments within the port area.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Russian forces have been digging defensive fortifications and trenches in Crimea that experts say would be difficult and costly for Ukrainian forces to overcome <a href="https://t.co/giTkBXroUx">https://t.co/giTkBXroUx</a> <a href="https://t.co/ssSEiDVxb9">pic.twitter.com/ssSEiDVxb9</a></p>
— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) <a href="https://twitter.com/AJEnglish/status/1645324704431984640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Watch this video of the analysis of the satellite images</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Russia fortified Crimea peninsula between February and March this year, anticipating a counteroffensive by Ukraine, according to an analysis of satellite images by Al Jazeera<a href="https://twitter.com/KatiePilbeamTV?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KatiePilbeamTV</a> tells you more<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RussiaUkraineWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RussiaUkraineWar</a><br />
<br />
For more videos, visit: <a href="https://t.co/AXC5qRuO3J">https://t.co/AXC5qRuO3J</a> <a href="https://t.co/Mka8GGGabg">pic.twitter.com/Mka8GGGabg</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1645382674301992960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>While talking about ads for workers needed for the construction of fortifications, analysts weighed in on the shortage of manpower. According to the experts, such a shortage of workforce amid the ongoing war can be a reason behind partially ineffective trenches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by the report, who is a senior intelligence analyst at security company Global Guardian, analysed the photographs and told Al Jazeera: "None of the trenches in any of the photos is 100 per cent complete. All indicate ongoing work, as the trench networks are not connected and lack complete communications trenches."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Faintuch also said that the images showing trenches in northern Crimea indicate that Russia is maybe working on deterring Ukraine from mounting a ground assault from the north.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by the report, Faintuch further noted: "The new Russian defensive lines leverage the topography and existing villages to create choke points along these highways. In essence, if the Russians find themselves on the defensive in Crimea, they plan on giving Ukraine a taste of its own medicine."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-leak-says-russia-almost-shot-down-uk-spy-plane-kyivs-air-defenses-on-verge-of-depletion-580827">Pentagon leak says Russia almost shot down UK spy plane, Kyiv's air defences on verge of depletion</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>What did Lula say about Crimea?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva hopes to act as a mediator to end the Ukraine war and also issued a vague proposal. He has proposed creating a group of countries to mediate in the war in Ukraine and the Brazilian leader said he was "confident" that this group "would be created" after his China trip.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lula had even suggested that Kyiv should give up Crimea to end the war with Russia. But in response, Ukrainian foreign ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko said that "there is no legal, political or moral reason that would justify us having to yield even a centimetre of Ukrainian land".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nikolenko also said that "any mediation efforts to restore peace in Ukraine should be based on respect for the sovereignty and the full restoration of Ukraine's territorial integrity".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lula suggested Ukraine could give up Crimea to begin peace discussions and noted that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky "could not get everything".&nbsp;</p>

<p>A couple of days ago, Zelensky said in a tweet that "the world should know: respect and order will return to international relations only when the Ukrainian flag returns to Crimea, when there is freedom there – just like everywhere else in Ukraine".&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The world should know: respect and order will return to international relations only when the Ukrainian flag returns to Crimea, when there is freedom there – just like everywhere else in Ukraine. <a href="https://t.co/RlpCjiZZgB">pic.twitter.com/RlpCjiZZgB</a></p>
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1644435907699699719?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On April 2, the last occupier fled from the Kyiv region. The day will come when we'll say: the last occupier fled or was killed in the Donetsk region, Luhansk region, Kherson region and our entire south. Crimea will be free and safe again. Ukraine will return all its territories. <a href="https://t.co/DeFbkVg81q">pic.twitter.com/DeFbkVg81q</a></p>
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1642585088511680512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Russia on Crimea</strong></h2>

<p>Russia occupied Ukraine's Crimean peninsula in 2014, long before it launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine last year on February 2022. It has a huge concentration of forces on the Black Sea territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moscow has repeatedly said that peace negotiations were not on the table at this stage and vowed to continue its offensive.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the fag end of March, Russia reported strikes in Melitopol, which is one of Ukraine's main southern cities currently held by Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts and analysts have claimed that a successful breakthrough in the area would allow Ukraine to cut the land corridor that links mainland Russia to Crimea.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Good night, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Crimea?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Crimea</a>🇷🇺!<br />
➡️<a href="https://t.co/ZuJSEpOANh">https://t.co/ZuJSEpOANh</a><br />
➡️<a href="https://t.co/8JMRkWWZzV">https://t.co/8JMRkWWZzV</a> <a href="https://t.co/jlFVwXYNLX">pic.twitter.com/jlFVwXYNLX</a></p>
— Russia's MFA in Crimea🇷🇺 (@PMSimferopol) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMSimferopol/status/1645147428763385862?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Ukraine on Crimea talks</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine has already promised to recapture all lost land, which does include Crimea. A recent report mentioned that Ukraine even plans to launch a counter-offensive in the coming weeks or months. However, there's no concrete evidence to confirm such a report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But there have been conflicting points of view as Mykhailo Podolyak, who is a presidential adviser, recently said told the Financial Times that the basis for real negotiations with Moscow is the "complete withdrawal" of Russian armed groups beyond the internationally recognised borders of Ukraine in 1991 including Crimea. He said that there is no question of any "territorial concessions" of sovereign rights.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

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Russia annexed the Crimea peninsula from Ukraine in 2014, but it always remained a matter of contention between Moscow and the West. The region and its fate were discussed multiple times during the course of Ukraine's invasion by Russia as experts and analysts see uncanny similarities between the two series of incidents.

Russia annexed the Crimea peninsula from Ukraine in 2014, but it always remained a matter of contention between Moscow and the West. The region and its fate were discussed multiple times during the course of Ukraine's invasion by Russia as experts and analysts see uncanny similarities between the two series of incidents. Recently, news outlet Al Jazeera did an analysis of satellite images of Crimea which revealed that the Russian forces are fortifying the Crimean peninsula. It suggests that Russia is preparing for a possible Ukrainian attack aimed at recapturing it. The news report mentioned that such military movements indicate that any attempt will be difficult and deadly. The report also mentioned that an investigation by its Sanad news verification and monitoring unit discovered that a fortified barrier was seen at the Crimean border and the surrounding areas between February and March. ALSO READ | US intel leak includes Ukraine war, Mossad details: Is America spying on allies? The Al Jazeera report also noted that the images provided to Sanad by SkySat and Planet.com further revealed that the construction and expansion of several significant military bases took place during the same period. Images that were taken on April 1 also show that authorities in Crimea have set up a sea barrier at a dock of the Russian Black Sea Fleet in the Sevastopol port, in addition to several new buildings and infrastructure developments within the port area. Russian forces have been digging defensive fortifications and trenches in Crimea that experts say would be difficult and costly for Ukrainian forces to overcome https://t.co/giTkBXroUx pic.twitter.com/ssSEiDVxb9 — Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) April 10, 2023 × Watch this video of the analysis of the satellite images Russia fortified Crimea peninsula between February and March this year, anticipating a counteroffensive by Ukraine, according to an analysis of satellite images by Al Jazeera@KatiePilbeamTV tells you more#RussiaUkraineWar For more videos, visit: https://t.co/AXC5qRuO3J pic.twitter.com/Mka8GGGabg — WION (@WIONews) April 10, 2023 × While talking about ads for workers needed for the construction of fortifications, analysts weighed in on the shortage of manpower. According to the experts, such a shortage of workforce amid the ongoing war can be a reason behind partially ineffective trenches. As quoted by the report, who is a senior intelligence analyst at security company Global Guardian, analysed the photographs and told Al Jazeera: "None of the trenches in any of the photos is 100 per cent complete. All indicate ongoing work, as the trench networks are not connected and lack complete communications trenches." Faintuch also said that the images showing trenches in northern Crimea indicate that Russia is maybe working on deterring Ukraine from mounting a ground assault from the north. As quoted by the report, Faintuch further noted: "The new Russian defensive lines leverage the topography and existing villages to create choke points along these highways. In essence, if the Russians find themselves on the defensive in Crimea, they plan on giving Ukraine a taste of its own medicine." ALSO READ | Pentagon leak says Russia almost shot down UK spy plane, Kyiv's air defences on verge of depletion What did Lula say about Crimea? Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva hopes to act as a mediator to end the Ukraine war and also issued a vague proposal. He has proposed creating a group of countries to mediate in the war in Ukraine and the Brazilian leader said he was "confident" that this group "would be created" after his China trip. Lula had even suggested that Kyiv should give up Crimea to end the war with Russia. But in response, Ukrainian foreign ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko said that "there is no legal, political or moral reason that would justify us having to yield even a centimetre of Ukrainian land". Nikolenko also said that "any mediation efforts to restore peace in Ukraine should be based on respect for the sovereignty and the full restoration of Ukraine's territorial integrity". Lula suggested Ukraine could give up Crimea to begin peace discussions and noted that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky "could not get everything". A couple of days ago, Zelensky said in a tweet that "the world should know: respect and order will return to international relations only when the Ukrainian flag returns to Crimea, when there is freedom there – just like everywhere else in Ukraine". The world should know: respect and order will return to international relations only when the Ukrainian flag returns to Crimea, when there is freedom there – just like everywhere else in Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/RlpCjiZZgB — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) April 7, 2023 × On April 2, the last occupier fled from the Kyiv region. The day will come when we'll say: the last occupier fled or was killed in the Donetsk region, Luhansk region, Kherson region and our entire south. Crimea will be free and safe again. Ukraine will return all its territories. pic.twitter.com/DeFbkVg81q — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) April 2, 2023 × Russia on Crimea Russia occupied Ukraine's Crimean peninsula in 2014, long before it launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine last year on February 2022. It has a huge concentration of forces on the Black Sea territory. Moscow has repeatedly said that peace negotiations were not on the table at this stage and vowed to continue its offensive. In the fag end of March, Russia reported strikes in Melitopol, which is one of Ukraine's main southern cities currently held by Russia. Experts and analysts have claimed that a successful breakthrough in the area would allow Ukraine to cut the land corridor that links mainland Russia to Crimea. Good night, #Crimea🇷🇺! ➡️https://t.co/ZuJSEpOANh ➡️https://t.co/8JMRkWWZzV pic.twitter.com/jlFVwXYNLX — Russia's MFA in Crimea🇷🇺 (@PMSimferopol) April 9, 2023 × Ukraine on Crimea talks Ukraine has already promised to recapture all lost land, which does include Crimea. A recent report mentioned that Ukraine even plans to launch a counter-offensive in the coming weeks or months. However, there's no concrete evidence to confirm such a report. But there have been conflicting points of view as Mykhailo Podolyak, who is a presidential adviser, recently said told the Financial Times that the basis for real negotiations with Moscow is the "complete withdrawal" of Russian armed groups beyond the internationally recognised borders of Ukraine in 1991 including Crimea. He said that there is no question of any "territorial concessions" of sovereign rights. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Are tensions simmering in Crimea, again? Satellite images foretell deadly fight

<p>An Iranian official has said that country's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) has successfully tested a long-range, high-precision kamikaze drone loaded with a 50 kg warhead. The drone has reportedly been developed by Iran.</p>

<p>Ali Kouhestani, the head of the Research and Self-Sufficiency Jihad Organization of the IRGC`s Ground Force, made the remarks in an interview with the semi-official Tasnim news agency, which was published on Sunday, Xinhua news agency reported.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Saudi Arabia’s delegation arrives in Iran to discuss embassy reopening</strong></p>

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<p>The unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) has been named "Meraj-532". It has a range of 450 kilometres. It is reportedly capable of flying at maximum altitude of 12,000 feet for three hours straight. Kouhestani said that the drone had pinpoint accuracy when it came to hitting targets.</p>

<p>The suicide drone is equipped with a piston engine and can take off from a vehicle, Kouhestani added.</p>

<p>He said the UAV has a 50-kg warhead and can be assembled and prepared for flight easily, making it suitable for rapid reaction operations.</p>

<p>Iranian military drones are slowly becoming topic of discussion across the world. The Islamic republic has made significant progress in this area in past few years. The country is currently producing drones capable of carrying out a wide range of missions.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-installs-cameras-in-public-places-to-identify-penalise-women-defying-hijab-laws-580447">Iran installs cameras in public places to identify, penalise women defying hijab laws</a></strong></p>

<p>Iran has also supplied drones to Russia which has in turn used them in Ukraine. Iran maintains that the drones were provided to Russia prior to outbreak of Ukraine war.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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An Iranian official has said that country's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) has successfully tested a long-range, high-precision kamikaze drone loaded with a 50 kg warhead.

An Iranian official has said that country's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) has successfully tested a long-range, high-precision kamikaze drone loaded with a 50 kg warhead. The drone has reportedly been developed by Iran. Ali Kouhestani, the head of the Research and Self-Sufficiency Jihad Organization of the IRGC`s Ground Force, made the remarks in an interview with the semi-official Tasnim news agency, which was published on Sunday, Xinhua news agency reported. Watch | Saudi Arabia’s delegation arrives in Iran to discuss embassy reopening × The unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) has been named "Meraj-532". It has a range of 450 kilometres. It is reportedly capable of flying at maximum altitude of 12,000 feet for three hours straight. Kouhestani said that the drone had pinpoint accuracy when it came to hitting targets. The suicide drone is equipped with a piston engine and can take off from a vehicle, Kouhestani added. He said the UAV has a 50-kg warhead and can be assembled and prepared for flight easily, making it suitable for rapid reaction operations. Iranian military drones are slowly becoming topic of discussion across the world. The Islamic republic has made significant progress in this area in past few years. The country is currently producing drones capable of carrying out a wide range of missions. Also Read | Iran installs cameras in public places to identify, penalise women defying hijab laws Iran has also supplied drones to Russia which has in turn used them in Ukraine. Iran maintains that the drones were provided to Russia prior to outbreak of Ukraine war. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iran successfully tests homemade kamikaze drone: Report

Al Jazeera has revealed that Russian forces are fortifying the Crimean peninsula in anticipation of a Ukrainian attempt to recapture it. According to experts, those barriers would probably make any such effort bloody and tough.

Report: Images reveal Russia is fortifying Crimea Peninsula

<p>The justice department of the United States announced on Saturday (April 8) to open a probe into a trove of leaked documents, many linked to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It appeared that the leaked documents included assessments and secret intelligence reports with some details about the Ukraine war. It apparently had war-related data on Russia. The documents reportedly carried highly sensitive analyses of US allies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have been in communication with the Department of Defense related to this matter and have begun an investigation," a Justice Department spokesperson told AFP.</p>

<p>The source of the alleged leak is not known but three US officials told the news agency Reuters on Friday that Russia or pro-Russian elements are likely behind the leak of classified military documents posted. However, Russia did not immediately respond to the allegations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/israel-hits-southern-syria-after-six-rockets-launched-at-golan-heights-explosions-heard-near-damascus-580568">Israel strikes southern Syria after six rockets launched at Golan Heights; explosions heard near Damascus</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The documents were posted online and a report by NBC News mentioned that a senior US official said on Saturday but that some of the documents may have been altered before they were posted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some documents labelled as "Secret" and "Top Secret" were seen during the initial batch and they were found on social media platforms such as Twitter, Telegram, Discord, and more. They were dated March 1.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;World at War | Russia welcomes Finland's NATO membership with nuclear Iskander missiles</strong></p>

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<p>The leak was first reported by New York Times, which further noted that detailed US national security secrets related to areas including Ukraine, the Middle East and China surfaced on social media later on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The authenticity of the documents was not done but a leak of such leaks of classified and military documents is quite unusual. Also, defence analysts said that such leaks would be both damaging and potentially embarrassing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/burkina-faso-at-least-44-killed-in-terrorist-attacks-on-two-villages-580553">Burkina Faso: At least 44 killed in 'terrorist' attacks on two villages</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>US media said that the leak would prove valuable to Moscow by showing how deeply US intelligence has penetrated parts of the Russian military apparatus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh said: "We are aware of the reports of social media posts and the Department (of Defense) is reviewing the matter." Meanwhile, a CIA spokesperson said the agency was also aware of the posts and was looking into the claims.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did the documents reveal?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The leaked documents outlined Ukraine’s military strength, the state of the conflict, casualty figures and the burn rate for the HIMARS long-range rocket systems, which were provided by the US to Ukraine for the ongoing war. The documents also included maps and lists of equipment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The leaked documents also appeared to have details of what the US has learned via signals intelligence regarding Russian plans and operations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>John Sullivan, former US ambassador to Russia and deputy secretary of state, told NBC News on Friday that the documents appeared to have been altered with caution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted, Sullivan said: "There are some indications that ... there are some aspects of the document that have some authenticity to them, but there are also indications that this may be a Russian disinformation campaign, which they’re very good at."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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The justice department of the United States announced on Saturday (April 8) to open a probe into a trove of leaked documents, many linked to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

The justice department of the United States announced on Saturday (April 8) to open a probe into a trove of leaked documents, many linked to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. It appeared that the leaked documents included assessments and secret intelligence reports with some details about the Ukraine war. It apparently had war-related data on Russia. The documents reportedly carried highly sensitive analyses of US allies. "We have been in communication with the Department of Defense related to this matter and have begun an investigation," a Justice Department spokesperson told AFP. The source of the alleged leak is not known but three US officials told the news agency Reuters on Friday that Russia or pro-Russian elements are likely behind the leak of classified military documents posted. However, Russia did not immediately respond to the allegations. ALSO READ | Israel strikes southern Syria after six rockets launched at Golan Heights; explosions heard near Damascus The documents were posted online and a report by NBC News mentioned that a senior US official said on Saturday but that some of the documents may have been altered before they were posted. Some documents labelled as "Secret" and "Top Secret" were seen during the initial batch and they were found on social media platforms such as Twitter, Telegram, Discord, and more. They were dated March 1. WATCH | World at War | Russia welcomes Finland's NATO membership with nuclear Iskander missiles × The leak was first reported by New York Times, which further noted that detailed US national security secrets related to areas including Ukraine, the Middle East and China surfaced on social media later on Friday. The authenticity of the documents was not done but a leak of such leaks of classified and military documents is quite unusual. Also, defence analysts said that such leaks would be both damaging and potentially embarrassing. ALSO READ | Burkina Faso: At least 44 killed in 'terrorist' attacks on two villages US media said that the leak would prove valuable to Moscow by showing how deeply US intelligence has penetrated parts of the Russian military apparatus. Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh said: "We are aware of the reports of social media posts and the Department (of Defense) is reviewing the matter." Meanwhile, a CIA spokesperson said the agency was also aware of the posts and was looking into the claims. What did the documents reveal? The leaked documents outlined Ukraine’s military strength, the state of the conflict, casualty figures and the burn rate for the HIMARS long-range rocket systems, which were provided by the US to Ukraine for the ongoing war. The documents also included maps and lists of equipment. The leaked documents also appeared to have details of what the US has learned via signals intelligence regarding Russian plans and operations. John Sullivan, former US ambassador to Russia and deputy secretary of state, told NBC News on Friday that the documents appeared to have been altered with caution. As quoted, Sullivan said: "There are some indications that ... there are some aspects of the document that have some authenticity to them, but there are also indications that this may be a Russian disinformation campaign, which they’re very good at." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US opens probe into classified documents leak about Russia-Ukraine war

<p>Pope Francis reportedly called for a temporary peace in Ukraine and urged both the warring nations to halt the fighting in the run-up to Easter and Orthodox Easter week. The religious leader&nbsp;called for a two-week truce in the zone of hostilities in Ukraine, Russian news agency TASS reported on Friday, citing a conversation between&nbsp;Leonid Sevastyanov, the leader of the World Union of Old Believers, and Pope Francis.</p>

<p>"Next week is the Catholic Easter week, and then there will follow the Orthodox Easter week. The Pope has just told me that in honour of this, he suggests that all hostilities in the special military operation zone in Ukraine be stopped for two weeks: for the Catholic and Orthodox Easter weeks. Starting from this Sunday and for two weeks there would be no offensives at all, everyone would stop shooting at each other and a truce would be declared," Sevastyanov was quoted as saying by TASS.</p>

<p>The Old Believers’ leader reportedly went on to say&nbsp;that this issue was very important to the head of the Catholic church.</p>

<p>"Please let everyone know this," Sevastyanov quoted Pope Francis as saying, TASS report added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-putin-orders-ceasefire-in-ukraine-on-january-6-7-549807">Russia-Ukraine war: Putin offers Orthodox Christmas truce, Ukraine rejects it as 'hypocrisy'</a></strong></p>

<p>The Catholic Church celebrates Easter this year next Sunday, April 9; Orthodox Christians celebrate it a week later, on April 16.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia-Ukraine war: Attempts for ceasefire in recent past</strong></h2>

<p>On March 31, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko called for an immediate ceasefire between the two warring sides.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Russia declares two-day ceasefire in Ukraine for Orthodox Christmas</strong></p>

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<p>"In terms of Ukraine, nothing is changing, the special military operation is continuing because today that is the only means in front of us to achieve our goals," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov had said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said parts of a plan proposed by China for peace in Ukraine were "unrealisable at the moment, due to the unwillingness — or rather the inability — of the Ukrainian side to disobey their supervisors and commanders".<br />
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Pope Francis reportedly called for a temporary peace in Ukraine and urged both the warring nations to halt the fighting in the run-up to Easter and Orthodox Easter week.

Pope Francis reportedly called for a temporary peace in Ukraine and urged both the warring nations to halt the fighting in the run-up to Easter and Orthodox Easter week. The religious leader called for a two-week truce in the zone of hostilities in Ukraine, Russian news agency TASS reported on Friday, citing a conversation between Leonid Sevastyanov, the leader of the World Union of Old Believers, and Pope Francis. "Next week is the Catholic Easter week, and then there will follow the Orthodox Easter week. The Pope has just told me that in honour of this, he suggests that all hostilities in the special military operation zone in Ukraine be stopped for two weeks: for the Catholic and Orthodox Easter weeks. Starting from this Sunday and for two weeks there would be no offensives at all, everyone would stop shooting at each other and a truce would be declared," Sevastyanov was quoted as saying by TASS. The Old Believers’ leader reportedly went on to say that this issue was very important to the head of the Catholic church. "Please let everyone know this," Sevastyanov quoted Pope Francis as saying, TASS report added. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war: Putin offers Orthodox Christmas truce, Ukraine rejects it as 'hypocrisy' The Catholic Church celebrates Easter this year next Sunday, April 9; Orthodox Christians celebrate it a week later, on April 16. Russia-Ukraine war: Attempts for ceasefire in recent past On March 31, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko called for an immediate ceasefire between the two warring sides. ALSO WATCH | Russia declares two-day ceasefire in Ukraine for Orthodox Christmas × "In terms of Ukraine, nothing is changing, the special military operation is continuing because today that is the only means in front of us to achieve our goals," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov had said. He said parts of a plan proposed by China for peace in Ukraine were "unrealisable at the moment, due to the unwillingness — or rather the inability — of the Ukrainian side to disobey their supervisors and commanders". WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia-Ukraine war heading for Easter ceasefire? Pope Francis conveys big message

<p>Ukraine’s first deputy foreign affairs minister Emine Dzhaparova will make a four-day visit to India starting Monday (April 9), making it the first official visit of a minister from Kyiv since the start of the Russian invasion.</p>

<p>The visit will focus on bilateral relations, exchanging views on the current situation in Ukraine, and global issues of mutual interest, officials said.</p>

<p>Dzhaparova is also expected to meet Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Meenakshi Lekhi, and Deputy National Security Adviser, Vikram Misri.</p>

<p>The Hindu newspaper reported that the Ukrainian minister is expected&nbsp;to invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Kyiv&nbsp;and suggest New Delhi to invite President Volodymyr Zelensky to the G20 Summit in September.</p>

<p>“India shares warm and friendly relations and multifaceted cooperation with Ukraine. Over the last 30 years of establishing diplomatic relations, bilateral cooperation between the two countries has made significant progress in the areas of trade, education, culture and defence. The visit will be an occasion to further mutual understanding and interests," India’s Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia threatens to pull the trigger on Black Sea grain deal</strong></h2>

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<p>Additionally, the minister will also request more humanitarian aid, including pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and energy equipment to repair power infrastructure damaged during the war, the newspaper reported.</p>

<p>The report further states that the Urainian minister, a former journalist, will call on India to send a "strong message for peace" to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is due to visit India in July for Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit and is due back in September for G20 summit.</p>

<p>So far, India has taken a neutral stance in the Russia-Ukraine war, and has repeatedly urged both parties to shun violence and get back to the discussion table.</p>

<p>India has also abstained on all resolutions passed against Russia in the various UN bodies, including at the UN General Assembly. The latest one was passed by the UN human rights council on April 4 which extended the mandate of the commission of inquiry into alleged war crimes by Russia for a year.</p>

<p>Despite facing pressures from US and the West to follow its sanction model, India has remained steadfast in its foreign policy, and has refused to join either faction, the latter being the Russia-China axis.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
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Ukraine’s first deputy foreign affairs minister Emine Dzhaparova will make a four-day visit to India starting Monday (April 9), making it the first official visit of a minister from Kyiv since the start of the Russian invasion.

Ukraine’s first deputy foreign affairs minister Emine Dzhaparova will make a four-day visit to India starting Monday (April 9), making it the first official visit of a minister from Kyiv since the start of the Russian invasion. The visit will focus on bilateral relations, exchanging views on the current situation in Ukraine, and global issues of mutual interest, officials said. Dzhaparova is also expected to meet Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Meenakshi Lekhi, and Deputy National Security Adviser, Vikram Misri. The Hindu newspaper reported that the Ukrainian minister is expected to invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Kyiv and suggest New Delhi to invite President Volodymyr Zelensky to the G20 Summit in September. “India shares warm and friendly relations and multifaceted cooperation with Ukraine. Over the last 30 years of establishing diplomatic relations, bilateral cooperation between the two countries has made significant progress in the areas of trade, education, culture and defence. The visit will be an occasion to further mutual understanding and interests," India’s Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. Russia threatens to pull the trigger on Black Sea grain deal Additionally, the minister will also request more humanitarian aid, including pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and energy equipment to repair power infrastructure damaged during the war, the newspaper reported. The report further states that the Urainian minister, a former journalist, will call on India to send a "strong message for peace" to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is due to visit India in July for Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit and is due back in September for G20 summit. So far, India has taken a neutral stance in the Russia-Ukraine war, and has repeatedly urged both parties to shun violence and get back to the discussion table. India has also abstained on all resolutions passed against Russia in the various UN bodies, including at the UN General Assembly. The latest one was passed by the UN human rights council on April 4 which extended the mandate of the commission of inquiry into alleged war crimes by Russia for a year. Despite facing pressures from US and the West to follow its sanction model, India has remained steadfast in its foreign policy, and has refused to join either faction, the latter being the Russia-China axis. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukrainian minister to arrive Monday on first India visit since Russian invasion; seek G20 invite for Zelensky

<p>Russia has faced resounding defeat in three separate votes in the United Nations.&nbsp;The loss which comes over a&nbsp;year into the Russia-Ukraine war bears witness to the fact that the international community maintains its opposition to Moscow's decision to invade&nbsp;Ukraine. Vladimir Putin's nation bore defeat during votes in the 54-member UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). The first "resounding defeat" was at the hands of Romania for a seat on the Commission on the Status of Women. Estonia then beat Russia in&nbsp;the bid for the UN children's agency UNICEF's executive board. Furthermore, Armenia and the Czech Republic defeated Rusia in a secret ballot for membership in the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice.</p>

<p>AFP reports that after Wednesday's votes, US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield remarked that the results are a "clear signal from ECOSOC members that no country should hold positions on critical UN bodies when they are in flagrant violation of the UN Charter."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ukrainian-minister-to-visit-india-on-monday-a-first-since-russian-invasion-580403">Ukrainian minister to visit India on Monday, a first since Russian invasion; eyes G20 invitation to Zelensky</a></strong></p>

<p>While Russia faced defeat for the above-mentioned significant seats, in the voting for members of 14 commissions, boards and expert groups that ECOSOC oversees, the nation was elected to the Commission for Social Development by acclamation. The United States and the United Kingdom have reportedly dissociated their countries from the commission. The two nations claim that Russia's invasion violates international law and Ukraine's territorial integrity.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-arrests-chinese-lgbtq-blogger-for-violating-same-sex-propaganda-law-580401">Russia arrests Chinese LGBTQ blogger for violating same-sex ‘propaganda’ law</a></strong></p>

<p>Moscow was also elected to the Intergovernmental Working Group of Experts on International Standards of Accounting and Reporting.</p>

<p>News agency AP reports that the UN Economic and Social Council votes follow the United Nations General Assembly's (UNGA) approval of six non-binding resolutions against Russia. The latest resolution was passed by the 193-member UNGA on the eve of the first anniversary of the Ukraine War. It was adopted by a vote of 141-7 with 32 abstentions and calls on&nbsp;Moscow to end hostilities and withdraw its forces.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
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Russia has faced resounding defeat in three separate votes in the United Nations. The loss which comes over a year into the Russia-Ukraine war bears witness to the fact that the international community maintains its opposition to Moscow's decision to invade Ukraine.

Russia has faced resounding defeat in three separate votes in the United Nations. The loss which comes over a year into the Russia-Ukraine war bears witness to the fact that the international community maintains its opposition to Moscow's decision to invade Ukraine. Vladimir Putin's nation bore defeat during votes in the 54-member UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). The first "resounding defeat" was at the hands of Romania for a seat on the Commission on the Status of Women. Estonia then beat Russia in the bid for the UN children's agency UNICEF's executive board. Furthermore, Armenia and the Czech Republic defeated Rusia in a secret ballot for membership in the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. AFP reports that after Wednesday's votes, US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield remarked that the results are a "clear signal from ECOSOC members that no country should hold positions on critical UN bodies when they are in flagrant violation of the UN Charter." Also read | Ukrainian minister to visit India on Monday, a first since Russian invasion; eyes G20 invitation to Zelensky While Russia faced defeat for the above-mentioned significant seats, in the voting for members of 14 commissions, boards and expert groups that ECOSOC oversees, the nation was elected to the Commission for Social Development by acclamation. The United States and the United Kingdom have reportedly dissociated their countries from the commission. The two nations claim that Russia's invasion violates international law and Ukraine's territorial integrity. Also read | Russia arrests Chinese LGBTQ blogger for violating same-sex ‘propaganda’ law Moscow was also elected to the Intergovernmental Working Group of Experts on International Standards of Accounting and Reporting. News agency AP reports that the UN Economic and Social Council votes follow the United Nations General Assembly's (UNGA) approval of six non-binding resolutions against Russia. The latest resolution was passed by the 193-member UNGA on the eve of the first anniversary of the Ukraine War. It was adopted by a vote of 141-7 with 32 abstentions and calls on Moscow to end hostilities and withdraw its forces. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia loses three UN elections over Ukraine war, its ‘flagrant violation of the UN Charter’

<p>Amid the ongoing Russian invasion, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (April 7), hosted the first “official” iftar with Muslim servicemen, representatives of the diplomatic corps, and the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar people outside a mosque in the centre of Kyiv, reported Kyiv Independent, an online Ukrainian newspaper. Zelensky&nbsp;addressed the gathering and&nbsp;criticised Russia’s treatment of the Muslim-minority Tatar community in Kremlin-controlled Crimea and vowed to recapture the peninsula.</p>

<p>“Russia’s attempt to enslave Ukraine...began exactly with the occupation of Crimea, exactly with repressions against Crimean, Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar freedom and of Crimean Muslims,” said Zelensky, reported AFP. Russia captured the Black Sea territory from Ukraine in 2014, a move which had garnered significant criticism from Kyiv and its allies in the West.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Tatar community accounted for at least 12 to 15 per cent of the two million Crimea residents. Reports suggest that after Moscow took over Crimea, it banned the traditional assembly of the Tatar Muslim minority also known as Mejlis. Additionally, Russia has also declared it an extremist organisation and has jailed members of the community since, citing security concerns.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There is no alternative for Ukraine, or for the world, other than the de-occupation of Crimea. We will return to Crimea,” said the Ukrainian president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky also conferred awards to several Muslim Ukrainian servicemen and thanked the Muslim community for defending Ukraine, during the gathering for ‘iftar’ the meal breaking the daily fast during the holy month of Ramadan. He also said that Kyiv “values ​​every person, values every community,” adding that diversity is a part of the country’s character.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Ukraine is grateful to the Muslims of our country and to everyone in the Muslim community of the world who, like us, longs for peace and protection from evil,” said the Ukrainian president. He also later took to Twitter and wrote, “Despite the sadness and pain of war, may the holy Ramadan be bright for you! May iftar bring consolation to everyone in the world, in the Muslim community, wherever you happen to be now.”<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Despite the sadness and pain of war, may the holy Ramadan be bright for you! May Iftar bring consolation to everyone in the world, in the Muslim community, wherever you happen to be now. The big world Muslim community can always rely on Ukraine, on our respect and solidarity. <a href="https://t.co/BCWfZORBP2">pic.twitter.com/BCWfZORBP2</a></p>
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1644426860086849549?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Zelensky added, “The big world Muslim community can always rely on Ukraine, on our respect and solidarity.” Notably, Russia is home to a large Muslim minority from southern regions, including Chechnya and Dagestan, many of whom are said to be fighting for Moscow in Ukraine, reported AFP.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Amid the ongoing Russian invasion, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (April 7), hosted the first “official” iftar with Muslim servicemen, representatives of the diplomatic corps, and the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar people outside a mosque in the centre of Kyiv, reported Kyiv Independent, an online Ukrainian newspaper.

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (April 7), hosted the first “official” iftar with Muslim servicemen, representatives of the diplomatic corps, and the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar people outside a mosque in the centre of Kyiv, reported Kyiv Independent, an online Ukrainian newspaper. Zelensky addressed the gathering and criticised Russia’s treatment of the Muslim-minority Tatar community in Kremlin-controlled Crimea and vowed to recapture the peninsula. “Russia’s attempt to enslave Ukraine...began exactly with the occupation of Crimea, exactly with repressions against Crimean, Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar freedom and of Crimean Muslims,” said Zelensky, reported AFP. Russia captured the Black Sea territory from Ukraine in 2014, a move which had garnered significant criticism from Kyiv and its allies in the West. The Tatar community accounted for at least 12 to 15 per cent of the two million Crimea residents. Reports suggest that after Moscow took over Crimea, it banned the traditional assembly of the Tatar Muslim minority also known as Mejlis. Additionally, Russia has also declared it an extremist organisation and has jailed members of the community since, citing security concerns. “There is no alternative for Ukraine, or for the world, other than the de-occupation of Crimea. We will return to Crimea,” said the Ukrainian president. Zelensky also conferred awards to several Muslim Ukrainian servicemen and thanked the Muslim community for defending Ukraine, during the gathering for ‘iftar’ the meal breaking the daily fast during the holy month of Ramadan. He also said that Kyiv “values every person, values every community,” adding that diversity is a part of the country’s character. “Ukraine is grateful to the Muslims of our country and to everyone in the Muslim community of the world who, like us, longs for peace and protection from evil,” said the Ukrainian president. He also later took to Twitter and wrote, “Despite the sadness and pain of war, may the holy Ramadan be bright for you! May iftar bring consolation to everyone in the world, in the Muslim community, wherever you happen to be now.” Despite the sadness and pain of war, may the holy Ramadan be bright for you! May Iftar bring consolation to everyone in the world, in the Muslim community, wherever you happen to be now. The big world Muslim community can always rely on Ukraine, on our respect and solidarity. pic.twitter.com/BCWfZORBP2 — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) April 7, 2023 × Zelensky added, “The big world Muslim community can always rely on Ukraine, on our respect and solidarity.” Notably, Russia is home to a large Muslim minority from southern regions, including Chechnya and Dagestan, many of whom are said to be fighting for Moscow in Ukraine, reported AFP. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukrainian president Zelensky hosts first ‘official’ iftar to honour Muslims in Kyiv

The world's largest aeroplane, Antonov AN-225 Mriya, was destroyed on Day 1 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Kyiv has now charged the former chief of Antonov with negligence. He is accused of not evacuating the plane on time. Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas | Destroyed in the Ukraine war: The World's largest aeroplane | AN-225 Mriya

Secret files detailing NATO's war plan in Ukraine has been leaked on social media. The confidential documents have data on weapon deliveries, troops, and battalion strength. Who leaked these files? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas | Leaked: NATO's game plan in the Ukraine war | Here's what the top secret files reveal

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<p>Moscow could pull the trigger and suspend its participation in the Black Sea grain deal if sanctions and other obstacles to Russian exports remain the way they have been. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov issued the threat during his visit to Turkey, which had helped broker the agreement last year&nbsp;along with the United Nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If there is no further progress in removing barriers to the export of Russian fertilisers and grain, we will think about whether this deal is necessary," Lavrov was quoted as saying by AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Any negotiation needs to be based on taking into account Russian interests, Russian concerns. It should be about the principles on which the new world order will be based."</p>

<p>He added that Moscow rejected a unipolar world order led by 'one hegemon', referring to the USA which it alleges has been&nbsp;using Kyiv to push its agenda.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Erdogan announced deal extension last month</strong></h2>

<p>The development comes a couple of weeks after Turkish President&nbsp;Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced the extension of the deal. Hours before the agreement was set to expire on March 19, Erdogan in a televised address announced that the two parties sat across the table and agreed on the extension.</p>

<p>"Following talks with the two parties, we have assured the extension of the deal that was due to expire on March 19," said the Turkish president.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukrainian-troops-to-withdraw-from-bakhmut-world-news-wion-579614" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | Russia Ukraine War: Ukrainian troops to withdraw from Bakhmut? | World News | WION</strong></a></p>

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<p>It wasn't specified for how long the deal had been extended but Ankara earlier said it was in favour of a 120-day extension compared to Moscow's 60-day extension.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This deal is of vital importance for the global food supply. I thank Russia and Ukraine, who didn't spare their efforts for a new extension, as well as the United Nations secretary general."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia scrapping the deal</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, this is not the first instance when Russia has issued a threat for&nbsp;scrapping the deal. Last year in October, Moscow pulled out of the deal citing alleged drone attacks on Russian ships in the Crimea Bay as the reason.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In light of the terrorist act carried out by the Kyiv regime with the participation of British experts against ships of the Black Sea fleet and civilian vessels involved in the security of grain corridors, Russia suspends its participation in the implementation of the agreement on the export of agricultural products from Ukrainian ports," read the statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wheat-prices-climb-nearly-six-percent-after-russia-pulls-out-of-black-sea-deal-529975" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Wheat prices climb nearly six percent after Russia pulls out of Black Sea deal</strong></a></p>

<p>Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the supply of grain shipments&nbsp;through the region was halted which nearly triggered a global food crisis before Turkey and the UN brokered the deal.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Moscow could pull the trigger and suspend its participation in the Black Sea grain deal if sanctions and other obstacles to Russian exports remain the way they have been.

Moscow could pull the trigger and suspend its participation in the Black Sea grain deal if sanctions and other obstacles to Russian exports remain the way they have been. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov issued the threat during his visit to Turkey, which had helped broker the agreement last year along with the United Nations. "If there is no further progress in removing barriers to the export of Russian fertilisers and grain, we will think about whether this deal is necessary," Lavrov was quoted as saying by AFP. "Any negotiation needs to be based on taking into account Russian interests, Russian concerns. It should be about the principles on which the new world order will be based." He added that Moscow rejected a unipolar world order led by 'one hegemon', referring to the USA which it alleges has been using Kyiv to push its agenda. Erdogan announced deal extension last month The development comes a couple of weeks after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced the extension of the deal. Hours before the agreement was set to expire on March 19, Erdogan in a televised address announced that the two parties sat across the table and agreed on the extension. "Following talks with the two parties, we have assured the extension of the deal that was due to expire on March 19," said the Turkish president. WATCH | Russia Ukraine War: Ukrainian troops to withdraw from Bakhmut? | World News | WION × It wasn't specified for how long the deal had been extended but Ankara earlier said it was in favour of a 120-day extension compared to Moscow's 60-day extension. "This deal is of vital importance for the global food supply. I thank Russia and Ukraine, who didn't spare their efforts for a new extension, as well as the United Nations secretary general." Russia scrapping the deal Notably, this is not the first instance when Russia has issued a threat for scrapping the deal. Last year in October, Moscow pulled out of the deal citing alleged drone attacks on Russian ships in the Crimea Bay as the reason. "In light of the terrorist act carried out by the Kyiv regime with the participation of British experts against ships of the Black Sea fleet and civilian vessels involved in the security of grain corridors, Russia suspends its participation in the implementation of the agreement on the export of agricultural products from Ukrainian ports," read the statement. ALSO READ | Wheat prices climb nearly six percent after Russia pulls out of Black Sea deal Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the supply of grain shipments through the region was halted which nearly triggered a global food crisis before Turkey and the UN brokered the deal. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

‘We will think...’: Moscow again threatens to pull out of Black Sea grain deal

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