Several classified documents containing “secret details” of US and NATO plans for bolstering the Ukrainian forces for impending Russian offensive were leaked online, The New York Times (NYT) has reported.

The documents, which are currently circulating on Twitter and Telegram, have caused serious concern about breach of security and prompted the Biden administration to launch a probe into the matter.

Twitter and Telegram are the two dominant social media platforms used prolifically in Ukraine and Russia.

“We are aware of the reports of social media posts and the department is reviewing the matter,” Sabrina Singh, the deputy press secretary at the Pentagon told the Times.

However, experts noted that the leak documents, which seems authentic, may very well be a hoax to distract the Russian forces in order to gain an upper hand in the disinformation game.

<h2>How fuels from Russian oil are getting backdoor entry into Europe via India</h2>

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According to the NYT report, the leaked documents have no information regarding battle plans and do not reveal how and when Ukraine intends to launch its offensive.

However, they do point towards an impending attack by the Russian military in the next month or so, as the documents are five weeks old, the report said.

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LEAKED DOD DOCS: These documents closely resemble the leaks reportedly containing top secret US/NATO intelligence and planning of a Ukrainian offensive. The Biden administration is reportedly working to have them "deleted" from social media. <a href="https://t.co/c8sZFdtbpp">https://t.co/c8sZFdtbpp</a> <a href="https://t.co/bJFb5Zh9UE">pic.twitter.com/bJFb5Zh9UE</a>
— Alex Rubinstein (@RealAlexRubi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealAlexRubi/status/1644221448482082816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The other information in these documents is about the training schedules of 12 Ukraine combat brigades, and they say&nbsp;that nine of them were being trained by US and NATO forces.

The documents also say&nbsp;that 250 tanks and more than 350 mechanised vehicles are needed to ward off the Russian forces, the newspaper reported.

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The documents—at least one of which carried a ‘top secret’ label —were circulated on pro-Russian government channels, it said.

The documents also detail expenditure rates for munitions under Ukraine military control, including for the HIMARS rocket systems, the US-made artillery rocket systems that have proven highly effective against Russian forces, it added.

It is not yet known how the documents were leaked online, but pro-Russian government channels have been sharing and circulating the briefing slides, military analysts told NYT.

The analysts warned that documents released by Russian sources could be selectively altered to present the Kremlin’s disinformation.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Several classified documents containing “secret details” of US and NATO plans for bolstering the Ukrainian forces for impending Russian offensive were leaked online, The New York Times (NYT) has reported.

Several classified documents containing “secret details” of US and NATO plans for bolstering the Ukrainian forces for impending Russian offensive were leaked online, The New York Times (NYT) has reported. The documents, which are currently circulating on Twitter and Telegram, have caused serious concern about breach of security and prompted the Biden administration to launch a probe into the matter. Twitter and Telegram are the two dominant social media platforms used prolifically in Ukraine and Russia. “We are aware of the reports of social media posts and the department is reviewing the matter,” Sabrina Singh, the deputy press secretary at the Pentagon told the Times. However, experts noted that the leak documents, which seems authentic, may very well be a hoax to distract the Russian forces in order to gain an upper hand in the disinformation game. How fuels from Russian oil are getting backdoor entry into Europe via India According to the NYT report, the leaked documents have no information regarding battle plans and do not reveal how and when Ukraine intends to launch its offensive. However, they do point towards an impending attack by the Russian military in the next month or so, as the documents are five weeks old, the report said. LEAKED DOD DOCS: These documents closely resemble the leaks reportedly containing top secret US/NATO intelligence and planning of a Ukrainian offensive. The Biden administration is reportedly working to have them "deleted" from social media. https://t.co/c8sZFdtbpp pic.twitter.com/bJFb5Zh9UE — Alex Rubinstein (@RealAlexRubi) April 7, 2023 × The other information in these documents is about the training schedules of 12 Ukraine combat brigades, and they say that nine of them were being trained by US and NATO forces. The documents also say that 250 tanks and more than 350 mechanised vehicles are needed to ward off the Russian forces, the newspaper reported. Also read | Israel launches air strikes on Gaza Strip after vowing to retaliate over Lebanon rocket salvo The documents—at least one of which carried a ‘top secret’ label —were circulated on pro-Russian government channels, it said. The documents also detail expenditure rates for munitions under Ukraine military control, including for the HIMARS rocket systems, the US-made artillery rocket systems that have proven highly effective against Russian forces, it added. It is not yet known how the documents were leaked online, but pro-Russian government channels have been sharing and circulating the briefing slides, military analysts told NYT. The analysts warned that documents released by Russian sources could be selectively altered to present the Kremlin’s disinformation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘Secret documents’ of US and NATO plans to help Ukraine beat Russia leaked online

April 4, 2023, turned out to be a "great day" for Finland as it became a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Helsinki's journey to becoming the 31st member of the crucial security alliance was completed with the hoisting of Finland's blue-and-white Nordic cross flag at NATO's headquarters.&nbsp;

Finland is now under NATO's security blanket and the alliance will also get a crucial and reliable ally. President Sauli Niinisto claimed that joining the defence alliance is a new era for his country.&nbsp;

Niinisto said, "It is a great day for Finland. Security and stability are those elements which we feel very strongly; if people can live in secure stable circumstances, that are the basic elements of a happy life."&nbsp;

The Finnish presidency said in a statement that "each country maximises its own security. So does Finland. At the same time, NATO membership strengthens our international position and room for manoeuvre." The statement also mentioned that in the future, Finland will contribute to NATO's collective "deterrence and defence".&nbsp;

<h2>Is Finland joining NATO a direct threat to Russia?&nbsp;</h2>

Analysts and experts from the West said that Finland joining NATO is a major blow to Russia. Moscow began Ukraine's invasion last year in February, which President Vladimir Putin calls a "special military operation", but the war prompted Finland to apply for NATO membership, along with Sweden. Finland's bid was historic because of its decades-old policy of military non-alignment.&nbsp;

Several concerns were raised over more possible invasions by Moscow after Ukraine in future. But any military attack on Finland will definitely get escalated as becoming a NATO member puts Finland under the alliance's Article Five, the collective defence pledge that an attack on one member "shall be considered an attack against them all".&nbsp;

After taking Helsinki into the camp, NATO doubled the length of its land border with Russia as Finland shares a 1,300-kilometre-long border with its neighbour. Moscow now has the West and its military forces closer to its border than before.&nbsp;

A response is expected in one way or another because Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that "this forces us to take countermeasures... in tactical and strategic terms".&nbsp;

But in an immediate reaction, Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said the nation will make the countermeasures public in a calm manner and in due time.&nbsp;

"We don't want to get ahead of ourselves here. Why should we? We will calmly disclose what we will do in response when the time is ripe," said Ryabkov, further adding that the West is "deeply mistaken" and "a reaction will follow". &nbsp;

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said that NATO's move to increase its own combat readiness has escalated the risk of conflict. Shoigu said that the West is intensifying combat training and reconnaissance activities near the borders of Russia and Belarus and all this creates the risk&nbsp;of a "significant escalation" of the conflict. He also stressed that the move will not affect the outcome of the "special military operation".&nbsp;

Putin has often warned the West that NATO's expansion would be seen as aggression towards Russia and would justify the invasion.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg described Finland's membership as a proud day for both—him and the alliance. He said, "This will make Finland safer and NATO&nbsp;stronger. President Putin had a declared goal of the invasion of Ukraine to get less NATO&nbsp;along its borders and no more membership in Europe, he's getting exactly the opposite."&nbsp;

<h2>What Finland will provide to NATO?&nbsp;</h2>

Finland was invaded by the Soviet Union in 1939 and it stayed out of NATO throughout the Cold War and also adopted neutrality in World War II. But its recent NATO membership portrays a significant change in Europe's political landscape.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
As mentioned, Finland will now help NATO allies to keep a watch on Russian activities as its strategic location boosts defences on a border running from the vulnerable Baltic states to the increasingly competitive Arctic.&nbsp;

NATO&nbsp;will now have seven members on the Baltic Sea, further isolating Russia's coastal access to St Petersburg and its small exclave of Kaliningrad.

Its membership also brings a potent military into the alliance with a wartime strength of 280,000 and one of Europe's largest artillery arsenals.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened to Sweden's bid?&nbsp;</h2>

Stockholm also applied for NATO membership along with Finland, but its bid has been stalled. Sweden has upset Hungary's leader Viktor Orban, one of Putin's closest allies in Europe, by expressing alarm over the rule of law in Hungary.&nbsp;

Turkey is also angry with it because of refusing to extradite "terrorists" upon Turkish request. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan links them to a failed 2016 coup attempt and the Kurdish independence struggle.&nbsp;

Also, analysts have said that they do not expect Turkey to ratify Sweden's application until after Turkey's May 14 election.

Not just Sweden, Ukraine is also pushing for eventual NATO membership. However, Western diplomats say that remains a distant prospect.&nbsp;

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said,&nbsp;"There is no better strategic solution to ensuring strategic security in the Euro-Atlantic region than the membership of Ukraine in the alliance."&nbsp;

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April 4, 2023, turned out to be a "great day" for Finland as it became a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Helsinki's journey to becoming the 31st member of the crucial security alliance was completed with the hoisting of Finland's blue-and-white Nordic cross flag at NATO's headquarters.

April 4, 2023, turned out to be a "great day" for Finland as it became a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Helsinki's journey to becoming the 31st member of the crucial security alliance was completed with the hoisting of Finland's blue-and-white Nordic cross flag at NATO's headquarters. Finland is now under NATO's security blanket and the alliance will also get a crucial and reliable ally. President Sauli Niinisto claimed that joining the defence alliance is a new era for his country. Niinisto said, "It is a great day for Finland. Security and stability are those elements which we feel very strongly; if people can live in secure stable circumstances, that are the basic elements of a happy life." The Finnish presidency said in a statement that "each country maximises its own security. So does Finland. At the same time, NATO membership strengthens our international position and room for manoeuvre." The statement also mentioned that in the future, Finland will contribute to NATO's collective "deterrence and defence". Is Finland joining NATO a direct threat to Russia? Analysts and experts from the West said that Finland joining NATO is a major blow to Russia. Moscow began Ukraine's invasion last year in February, which President Vladimir Putin calls a "special military operation", but the war prompted Finland to apply for NATO membership, along with Sweden. Finland's bid was historic because of its decades-old policy of military non-alignment. Several concerns were raised over more possible invasions by Moscow after Ukraine in future. But any military attack on Finland will definitely get escalated as becoming a NATO member puts Finland under the alliance's Article Five, the collective defence pledge that an attack on one member "shall be considered an attack against them all". After taking Helsinki into the camp, NATO doubled the length of its land border with Russia as Finland shares a 1,300-kilometre-long border with its neighbour. Moscow now has the West and its military forces closer to its border than before. A response is expected in one way or another because Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that "this forces us to take countermeasures... in tactical and strategic terms". But in an immediate reaction, Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said the nation will make the countermeasures public in a calm manner and in due time. "We don't want to get ahead of ourselves here. Why should we? We will calmly disclose what we will do in response when the time is ripe," said Ryabkov, further adding that the West is "deeply mistaken" and "a reaction will follow". Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said that NATO's move to increase its own combat readiness has escalated the risk of conflict. Shoigu said that the West is intensifying combat training and reconnaissance activities near the borders of Russia and Belarus and all this creates the risk of a "significant escalation" of the conflict. He also stressed that the move will not affect the outcome of the "special military operation". Putin has often warned the West that NATO's expansion would be seen as aggression towards Russia and would justify the invasion. Meanwhile, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg described Finland's membership as a proud day for both—him and the alliance. He said, "This will make Finland safer and NATO stronger. President Putin had a declared goal of the invasion of Ukraine to get less NATO along its borders and no more membership in Europe, he's getting exactly the opposite." What Finland will provide to NATO? Finland was invaded by the Soviet Union in 1939 and it stayed out of NATO throughout the Cold War and also adopted neutrality in World War II. But its recent NATO membership portrays a significant change in Europe's political landscape. As mentioned, Finland will now help NATO allies to keep a watch on Russian activities as its strategic location boosts defences on a border running from the vulnerable Baltic states to the increasingly competitive Arctic. NATO will now have seven members on the Baltic Sea, further isolating Russia's coastal access to St Petersburg and its small exclave of Kaliningrad. Its membership also brings a potent military into the alliance with a wartime strength of 280,000 and one of Europe's largest artillery arsenals. What happened to Sweden's bid? Stockholm also applied for NATO membership along with Finland, but its bid has been stalled. Sweden has upset Hungary's leader Viktor Orban, one of Putin's closest allies in Europe, by expressing alarm over the rule of law in Hungary. Turkey is also angry with it because of refusing to extradite "terrorists" upon Turkish request. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan links them to a failed 2016 coup attempt and the Kurdish independence struggle. Also, analysts have said that they do not expect Turkey to ratify Sweden's application until after Turkey's May 14 election. Not just Sweden, Ukraine is also pushing for eventual NATO membership. However, Western diplomats say that remains a distant prospect. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said, "There is no better strategic solution to ensuring strategic security in the Euro-Atlantic region than the membership of Ukraine in the alliance." 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: Finland is now a NATO member. Is it a direct threat to Russia?

Russia has launched an attack on Ukraine's port town of Odesa. The tension has now moved to the south. Analysts say Russia is eyeing total control of the Black Sea. What does this mean for Ukraine? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas | Ukraine War: The next big battle | Russia attacks Odesa, eyes total control of the Black Sea

The Wagner chief says Bakhmut has fallen. The Ukrainian city has seen fierce fighting for seven months. With Bakhmut's fall, is it game over for Ukraine? Analysts say Ukraine may never be the same again. Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas | The fall of Bakhmut: Is this the end of the road for Ukraine? Is Ukraine losing the war?

Ukraine's Air Force command said early Tuesday (April 4) that Russia launched 17 Iranian-made Shahed drones to attack the war-torn country overnight, adding that 14 of these drones were destroyed, the news agency Reuters reported.

Ukraine's Air Force command said early Tuesday (April 4) that Russia launched 17 Iranian-made Shahed drones to attack the war-torn country overnight, adding that 14 of these drones were destroyed, the news agency Reuters reported. Taking to Telegram, the command said in a statement, "In total, up to 17 launches of UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) attacks were recorded, presumably from the eastern coast area of the Sea of Azov." The drones struck the port of Odessa, local authorities said, adding there was damage. Taking to Facebook, the authorities said in a statement, "The enemy has just struck Odessa and the Odessa district with attack UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles)." "There is damage," the statement said. ALSO READ | Explained: Who was Vladlen Tatarsky, the Russian war blogger with Ukraine roots who was killed? Citing Yuriy Kruk, the head of the Odessa district military administration, the statement added that Ukraine's air defence forces were at work and warned of a possible second wave of attacks. The statement did not provide any further details. Since the beginning of the Russian offensive in February last year, Odessa has been bombed several times by Russian forces. On March 9, local authorities said that Russian strikes targeted the southern Odessa region. Governor Maksym Marchneko said that missiles had hit the energy infrastructure of the region as well as damaged residential buildings. Marchneko added that there were no casualties, and that power supply restrictions were in place. The latest drone strikes in Ukraine come as fierce fighting continues in and around Bakhmut. The battle for the city has been one of the bloodiest of the conflict with several casualties on both sides. Last Sunday, Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin said that his troops raised a Russian flag on the city-centre administrative building. However, the Ukrainian military said, fighting was still raging around the city council building, as well as in other nearby towns. Speaking to Reuters, Serhiy Cherevatyi, spokesperson for the eastern military command, said on Monday, "Bakhmut is Ukrainian and they have not captured anything and are very far from doing that." "They raised the flag over some kind of toilet. They attached it to the side of who knows what hung their rag and said they had captured the city. Well good, let them think they've taken it," Cherevatyi added. 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 launches 17 drones on Ukraine, 14 destroyed, says Kyiv

Lithuania took a drastic step on Tuesday (April 4) as its parliament banned Russian nationals from purchasing real esatete in the country. The parliament said that risks to national security were behind the decision. The ban will be in place till 2024. However, the ban will not apply to Russians who are granted residency in Lithuania.

In addition to the ban, Lithuanian parliament also stopped issuance of new visas to Russian and Belarusian nationals. Belarus is a strong ally of Russia.&nbsp;

Many of the citizens of those two countries who carry other travel documents, such as previously issued visas, will be subject to "individual extended checks" at the border to determine if they pose a threat to national security.

"The vast majority of Russian citizens support their country's aggressive military actions, and do not take actions to stop the aggression of their country's regime, so they share the responsibility," Deputy Foreign Minister Jurgita Neliupsiene told parliament in March as she introduced the bill.

Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After sustained gains in the battlefield for first few months, the Russian forces had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counterattacks. After Russia invaded Ukraine, countries that share borders with Russia have been on alert.

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Lithuania took a drastic step on Tuesday (April 4) as its parliament banned Russian nationals from purchasing real esatete in the country. The parliament said that risks to national security were behind the decision.

Lithuania took a drastic step on Tuesday (April 4) as its parliament banned Russian nationals from purchasing real esatete in the country. The parliament said that risks to national security were behind the decision. The ban will be in place till 2024. However, the ban will not apply to Russians who are granted residency in Lithuania. In addition to the ban, Lithuanian parliament also stopped issuance of new visas to Russian and Belarusian nationals. Belarus is a strong ally of Russia. Many of the citizens of those two countries who carry other travel documents, such as previously issued visas, will be subject to "individual extended checks" at the border to determine if they pose a threat to national security. "The vast majority of Russian citizens support their country's aggressive military actions, and do not take actions to stop the aggression of their country's regime, so they share the responsibility," Deputy Foreign Minister Jurgita Neliupsiene told parliament in March as she introduced the bill. Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After sustained gains in the battlefield for first few months, the Russian forces had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counterattacks. After Russia invaded Ukraine, countries that share borders with Russia have been on alert. 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 ×

Lithuania bans Russian nationals from purchasing property in country

A key Russian government agency has accused Slovakia of violating international export control regulations and contractual obligations in the transfer of Russian-made weapons to Ukraine. Russia's Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC) in a statement stated that Slovakia had "grossly violated international obligations on the re-export of Russian-made weapons," as stipulated in the Agreement between Russian and Slovak governments&nbsp;on Military-Technical Cooperation of April 29, 1997.&nbsp;

The FSMTC's statement came in response to the Slovak Ministry of Defence's announcement that it had delivered the first batch of MiG-29 aircraft to Ukraine. Slovakia last month became the second Nato member country to send warplanes to Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict. The country sent 4 MiG 29 fighter jets to the country irking Moscow.&nbsp; 
 
Pointing to the 1997 agreement, the statement said, "Contracting Parties will not sell or transfer weapons and military equipment to third countries without the written consent of the other Contracting Party".

Russia's Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC) is responsible for control and oversight in the field of military-technical cooperation between Russia and foreign countries and is managed by the Russian President. FSMTC is subordinated to the Defence Ministry of the Russian Federation, which coordinates and controls its activities.

The Slovak Ministry of Defence denied having such a document in their archives, which the FSMTC claims could be an attempt to mislead. The FSMTC has offered to provide a copy of the intergovernmental document stored in Russian archives to assist the Slovak side.

The Russian agency also accused Slovakia of violating contractual obligations, including Article 14.6 of the contract signed with the Ministry of Defence of Slovakia on July 8, 1993. This article states that the customer will not sell or transfer special equipment and technical documentation or information about them to other countries without the consent of the supplier.

Furthermore, the Slovak Ministry of Defence terminated a contract in 2009 for subscription service of MiG-29 aircraft of the Slovak Air Force. The FSMTC pointed out that the Russian side has been fulfilling its obligations to maintain the aircraft in combat-ready condition, but the Slovak side has not resolved issues regarding the return of expensive equipment imported for aircraft maintenance and payment for services already rendered.

The Russian statement said, "The equipment delivered under the conditions of temporary importation continues to be illegally held by the Slovak Side and can be transferred to Ukraine. According to our assessment, the above arguments indisputably indicate a violation by the Slovak Side not only of its contractual obligations, but also of international export control regulations." 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
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A key Russian government agency has accused Slovakia of violating international export control regulations and contractual obligations in the transfer of Russian-made weapons to Ukraine.

A key Russian government agency has accused Slovakia of violating international export control regulations and contractual obligations in the transfer of Russian-made weapons to Ukraine. Russia's Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC) in a statement stated that Slovakia had "grossly violated international obligations on the re-export of Russian-made weapons," as stipulated in the Agreement between Russian and Slovak governments on Military-Technical Cooperation of April 29, 1997. The FSMTC's statement came in response to the Slovak Ministry of Defence's announcement that it had delivered the first batch of MiG-29 aircraft to Ukraine. Slovakia last month became the second Nato member country to send warplanes to Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict. The country sent 4 MiG 29 fighter jets to the country irking Moscow. Pointing to the 1997 agreement, the statement said, "Contracting Parties will not sell or transfer weapons and military equipment to third countries without the written consent of the other Contracting Party". Russia's Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC) is responsible for control and oversight in the field of military-technical cooperation between Russia and foreign countries and is managed by the Russian President. FSMTC is subordinated to the Defence Ministry of the Russian Federation, which coordinates and controls its activities. The Slovak Ministry of Defence denied having such a document in their archives, which the FSMTC claims could be an attempt to mislead. The FSMTC has offered to provide a copy of the intergovernmental document stored in Russian archives to assist the Slovak side. The Russian agency also accused Slovakia of violating contractual obligations, including Article 14.6 of the contract signed with the Ministry of Defence of Slovakia on July 8, 1993. This article states that the customer will not sell or transfer special equipment and technical documentation or information about them to other countries without the consent of the supplier. Furthermore, the Slovak Ministry of Defence terminated a contract in 2009 for subscription service of MiG-29 aircraft of the Slovak Air Force. The FSMTC pointed out that the Russian side has been fulfilling its obligations to maintain the aircraft in combat-ready condition, but the Slovak side has not resolved issues regarding the return of expensive equipment imported for aircraft maintenance and payment for services already rendered. The Russian statement said, "The equipment delivered under the conditions of temporary importation continues to be illegally held by the Slovak Side and can be transferred to Ukraine. According to our assessment, the above arguments indisputably indicate a violation by the Slovak Side not only of its contractual obligations, but also of international export control regulations." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Slovakia accused of violating international obligations in Russian weapons’ transfer to Ukraine

The United States may announce a fresh $2.6 billion military aid package for war-torn Ukraine. Quoting three&nbsp;US officials in the know, Reuters reports that the military aid package to help Kyiv in its war against Russian aggression is expected to be announced on Monday and could include air surveillance radars, anti-tank rockets and fuel trucks. The list of equipment will be finalised over the weekend, and the dollar amount or the specifics of the equipment to be donated could still change, said one of the officials on the condition of anonymity.

As per the official, the final list of equipment could include half a dozen types of munitions, including tank munition.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine Russia conflict: Ukraine's Avdiivka now 'second Bakhmut'

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Additionally, precision aerial munitions, bridging equipment that could be used by Ukraine to target Russian positions, and recovery vehicles to help disabled heavy equipment like tanks could also be included.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<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>

Finally, additional rounds for NASAMS air defences that the US and allies have given to Kyiv could be included in the latest batch of US military aid.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/let-him-go-us-president-biden-tells-russia-to-release-american-journalist-577795">‘Let him go’: US President Biden tells Russia to release American journalist</a>

According to the report, of the $2.6 billion, $500 million&nbsp;is being sourced from Presidential Drawdown Authority funds, which allow the president to access existing US&nbsp;stocks in a state of emergency. This will be&nbsp;used to purchase munitions to aid Kyiv in pushing a spring offensive against the Russian invasion.&nbsp;Apart from that, $2.1 billion will be taken from the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) fund. According to Reuters, this permits the Biden administration to buy weapons from the industry instead of from US stockpiles.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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The United States may announce a fresh $2.6 billion military aid package for war-torn Ukraine. Quoting three US officials in the know, Reuters reports that the military aid package to help Kyiv in its war against Russian aggression is expected to be announced on Monday and could include air surveillance radars, anti-tank rockets and fuel trucks.

The United States may announce a fresh $2.6 billion military aid package for war-torn Ukraine. Quoting three US officials in the know, Reuters reports that the military aid package to help Kyiv in its war against Russian aggression is expected to be announced on Monday and could include air surveillance radars, anti-tank rockets and fuel trucks. The list of equipment will be finalised over the weekend, and the dollar amount or the specifics of the equipment to be donated could still change, said one of the officials on the condition of anonymity. As per the official, the final list of equipment could include half a dozen types of munitions, including tank munition. Watch | Ukraine Russia conflict: Ukraine's Avdiivka now 'second Bakhmut' Additionally, precision aerial munitions, bridging equipment that could be used by Ukraine to target Russian positions, and recovery vehicles to help disabled heavy equipment like tanks could also be included. Also read | IMF board approves $15.6 billion loan for war-torn Ukraine Finally, additional rounds for NASAMS air defences that the US and allies have given to Kyiv could be included in the latest batch of US military aid. Also read | ‘Let him go’: US President Biden tells Russia to release American journalist According to the report, of the $2.6 billion, $500 million is being sourced from Presidential Drawdown Authority funds, which allow the president to access existing US stocks in a state of emergency. This will be used to purchase munitions to aid Kyiv in pushing a spring offensive against the Russian invasion. Apart from that, $2.1 billion will be taken from the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) fund. According to Reuters, this permits the Biden administration to buy weapons from the industry instead of from US stockpiles. (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-Ukraine war | US to announce $2.6 billion military aid package for Kyiv

The executive board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Friday (March 31) approved a four-year $15.6 billion loan for Ukraine to help the war-torn country meet urgent funding needs as it continues to defend against the Russian offensive. The loan is Ukraine's biggest since the beginning of the conflict in February last year and the first major package approved by the IMF to a country that is involved in an active conflict.&nbsp;

According to a statement, the IMF said the Extended Fund Facility, "aims to anchor policies that sustain fiscal, external, price and financial stability and support economic recovery, while enhancing governance and strengthening institutions to promote long-term growth in the context of post-war reconstruction and Ukraine’s path to EU accession."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/need-for-vigilance-risks-to-financial-stability-have-increased-says-imf-chief-575977">Risks to financial stability have increased, says IMF chief calls for 'need for vigilance'</a>

The decision formalises an IMF staff-level agreement reached with Ukraine on March 21. The agreement takes into consideration Ukraine's path to accession to the European Union after the war. It is expected to help unleash large-scale financing for the war-torn country from international donors and partners.&nbsp;

Announcing the agreement, IMF official Gavin Gray said in a statement, "The overarching goals of the authorities' programme are to sustain economic and financial stability in circumstances of exceptionally high uncertainty, restore debt sustainability, and support Ukraine's recovery on the path toward EU accession in the post-war period."

"A gradual economic recovery is expected over the coming quarters, as activity recovers from the severe damage to critical infrastructure, although headwinds persist, including the risk of further escalation in the conflict," Gray said. The IMF official added that the fund currently expected the change in Ukraine's real gross domestic product for 2023 to range from -3% to +1%.&nbsp;

Last week, Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal hailed the agreement and thanked the IMF for its support. Taking to Telegram, Prime Minister Shmyhal said the programme would help Ukraine finance all critical expenditures and ensure macroeconomic stability and strengthen its interaction with other international partners.&nbsp; 
 
 
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The executive board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Friday (March 31) approved a four-year $15.6 billion loan for Ukraine to help the war-torn country meet urgent funding needs as it continues to defend against the Russian offensive.

The executive board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Friday (March 31) approved a four-year $15.6 billion loan for Ukraine to help the war-torn country meet urgent funding needs as it continues to defend against the Russian offensive. The loan is Ukraine's biggest since the beginning of the conflict in February last year and the first major package approved by the IMF to a country that is involved in an active conflict. According to a statement, the IMF said the Extended Fund Facility, "aims to anchor policies that sustain fiscal, external, price and financial stability and support economic recovery, while enhancing governance and strengthening institutions to promote long-term growth in the context of post-war reconstruction and Ukraine’s path to EU accession." ALSO READ | Risks to financial stability have increased, says IMF chief calls for 'need for vigilance' The decision formalises an IMF staff-level agreement reached with Ukraine on March 21. The agreement takes into consideration Ukraine's path to accession to the European Union after the war. It is expected to help unleash large-scale financing for the war-torn country from international donors and partners. Announcing the agreement, IMF official Gavin Gray said in a statement, "The overarching goals of the authorities' programme are to sustain economic and financial stability in circumstances of exceptionally high uncertainty, restore debt sustainability, and support Ukraine's recovery on the path toward EU accession in the post-war period." "A gradual economic recovery is expected over the coming quarters, as activity recovers from the severe damage to critical infrastructure, although headwinds persist, including the risk of further escalation in the conflict," Gray said. The IMF official added that the fund currently expected the change in Ukraine's real gross domestic product for 2023 to range from -3% to +1%. Last week, Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal hailed the agreement and thanked the IMF for its support. Taking to Telegram, Prime Minister Shmyhal said the programme would help Ukraine finance all critical expenditures and ensure macroeconomic stability and strengthen its interaction with other international partners. 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.

IMF board approves $15.6 billion loan for war-torn Ukraine

Poland's Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki on Saturday said that Ukraine has placed an order for 100 Rosomak multi-purpose armoured vehicles which are produced in Poland under a Finnish licence.

"I bring an order placed yesterday by (Ukrainian) Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal for 100 Rosomaks that will be fabricated here," said Mateusz Morawiecki, during his visit to the Rosomak manufacturing site located in Poland's southern town of Siemianowice Slaskie.

He said that the order will be financed using funds given by the European Union to Poland and US funds that have been received by Ukraine.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-set-to-take-chair-of-un-security-council-us-ukraine-call-it-april-fools-joke-577949">Russia takes over presidency of UN Security Council; US, Ukraine call it ‘April Fools' joke’</a>

The United States and its allies have provided many weapons and multiple funds to Ukraine after it was invaded by Russia in February 2022.

An 8x8 multi-purpose armoured vehicle, Rosomak is being manufactured under the licence from Patria, Finland.

<h2>Russia's Shoigu promises more munition&nbsp;supplies</h2>

Meanwhile, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Saturday promised to increase munition&nbsp;supplies to Russian forces in Ukraine during his visit to the headquarters of Russian troops fighting in the country, as per the defence ministry's video on Saturday.

In the video published on Telegram by the ministry, Shoigu is presiding over a meeting with the military's senior officers, including Russia's most senior soldier General Valery Gerasimov.

WATCH | Belarus says fighting in Ukraine should stop immediately

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In the video, Shoigu, while speaking to colleagues, can be heard saying that steps will be taken by Russia to boost the supply of munitions to troops at the front.

“The volume of supplies of the most demanded ammunition has been determined. Necessary measures are being taken to increase them,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Poland's Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki on Saturday said that Ukraine has placed an order for 100 Rosomak multi-purpose armoured vehicles which are produced in Poland under a Finnish licence.

Poland's Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki on Saturday said that Ukraine has placed an order for 100 Rosomak multi-purpose armoured vehicles which are produced in Poland under a Finnish licence. "I bring an order placed yesterday by (Ukrainian) Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal for 100 Rosomaks that will be fabricated here," said Mateusz Morawiecki, during his visit to the Rosomak manufacturing site located in Poland's southern town of Siemianowice Slaskie. He said that the order will be financed using funds given by the European Union to Poland and US funds that have been received by Ukraine. ALSO READ | Russia takes over presidency of UN Security Council; US, Ukraine call it ‘April Fools' joke’ The United States and its allies have provided many weapons and multiple funds to Ukraine after it was invaded by Russia in February 2022. An 8x8 multi-purpose armoured vehicle, Rosomak is being manufactured under the licence from Patria, Finland. Russia's Shoigu promises more munition supplies Meanwhile, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Saturday promised to increase munition supplies to Russian forces in Ukraine during his visit to the headquarters of Russian troops fighting in the country, as per the defence ministry's video on Saturday. In the video published on Telegram by the ministry, Shoigu is presiding over a meeting with the military's senior officers, including Russia's most senior soldier General Valery Gerasimov. WATCH | Belarus says fighting in Ukraine should stop immediately In the video, Shoigu, while speaking to colleagues, can be heard saying that steps will be taken by Russia to boost the supply of munitions to troops at the front. “The volume of supplies of the most demanded ammunition has been determined. Necessary measures are being taken to increase them,” he said. (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

Ukraine orders 100 Rosomak armoured vehicles from Poland

Ukraine’s foreign minister said on Friday that Wimbledon’s decision to allow Russian and Belarusian players to compete in the oldest Tennis tournament in the world was “immoral”. Kyiv urged the United Kingdom to ban the&nbsp;entry of participants from the two countries.

“Wimbledon’s decision to permit the participation of Russian and Belarusian players is immoral. Has Russia ceased its aggression or atrocities? No, it’s just that Wimbledon decided to accommodate two accomplices in crime. I call on the UK government to deny visas to their players,” foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba said on social media.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-2022-ban-wimbledon-set-to-accept-russian-and-belarusian-players-as-neutral-athletes-577726">After 2022 ban, Wimbledon set to accept Russian and Belarusian players as 'neutral' athletes</a>

Earlier in the day, Wimbledon said that it plans to lift its ban on Russian and Belarusian players in the tournament, on conditional basis. The condition remains that if the athletes from two countries are to compete,&nbsp;they will compete as neutral athletes.

They will be prohibited from expressing support for the ongoing Russian offensive in Ukraine and from receiving funding from Russia or Belarus.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Wimbledon bans Russian and Belarusian players

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Last year, players from the two nations were not allowed to participate in Wimbledon, in what was cited as an attempt to prevent the Russian regime from "deriving any benefits" from the competition, given its "unjustified and unprecedented military aggression", according to a joint statement by the All England Club and the Committee of Management of The Championships made at the time.

Chairman of the All England Club&nbsp;Ian Hewitt had said that the group was also concerned for public and player safety.

On Friday, Ian Hewitt said, “We continue to condemn totally Russia's illegal invasion and our wholehearted support remains with the people of Ukraine. This was an incredibly difficult decision, not taken lightly or without a great deal of consideration for those who will be impacted. It is our view that, considering all factors, these are the most appropriate arrangements for The Championships for this year.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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Ukraine’s foreign minister said on Friday that Wimbledon’s decision to allow Russian and Belarusian players to compete in the oldest Tennis tournament in the world was “immoral”.

Ukraine’s foreign minister said on Friday that Wimbledon’s decision to allow Russian and Belarusian players to compete in the oldest Tennis tournament in the world was “immoral”. Kyiv urged the United Kingdom to ban the entry of participants from the two countries. “Wimbledon’s decision to permit the participation of Russian and Belarusian players is immoral. Has Russia ceased its aggression or atrocities? No, it’s just that Wimbledon decided to accommodate two accomplices in crime. I call on the UK government to deny visas to their players,” foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba said on social media. ALSO READ | After 2022 ban, Wimbledon set to accept Russian and Belarusian players as 'neutral' athletes Earlier in the day, Wimbledon said that it plans to lift its ban on Russian and Belarusian players in the tournament, on conditional basis. The condition remains that if the athletes from two countries are to compete, they will compete as neutral athletes. They will be prohibited from expressing support for the ongoing Russian offensive in Ukraine and from receiving funding from Russia or Belarus. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: Wimbledon bans Russian and Belarusian players × Last year, players from the two nations were not allowed to participate in Wimbledon, in what was cited as an attempt to prevent the Russian regime from "deriving any benefits" from the competition, given its "unjustified and unprecedented military aggression", according to a joint statement by the All England Club and the Committee of Management of The Championships made at the time. Chairman of the All England Club Ian Hewitt had said that the group was also concerned for public and player safety. On Friday, Ian Hewitt said, “We continue to condemn totally Russia's illegal invasion and our wholehearted support remains with the people of Ukraine. This was an incredibly difficult decision, not taken lightly or without a great deal of consideration for those who will be impacted. It is our view that, considering all factors, these are the most appropriate arrangements for The Championships for this year.” (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 bristles as Wimbledon reverses ban on Russian and Belarusian players

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (March 31) adopted a new foreign policy strategy which sets elimination of Western dominance in global politics as a priority. The new strategy has come on the first anniversary of Russia's withdrawal from Ukraine's Bucha. Russian forces are facing opposition from Ukraine troops over control of city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine.

"The Russian Federation intends to give priority to the elimination of vestiges of the dominance of the United States and other unfriendly countries in world politics," according to the new 42-page document, reports&nbsp;AFP.

According to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, the new policy document deems the West to be an 'existential' threat to Russia.

"The existential nature of threats to the security and development of our country, driven by the actions of unfriendly states is recognised" in the policy, Lavrov said during a televised meeting of Russia's security council.

"The United States of America is directly named as the main instigator and driver of anti-Russian sentiment," he added.

Interestingly, the foreign policy document singles out China and India as its main allies on the world stage.

It stresses the importance of "the deepening of ties and coordination with friendly sovereign global centres of power and development located on the Eurasian continent," reports&nbsp;AFP.

<h2>Will defeat 'Russian evil,' says Zelensky</h2>

Earlier on Friday, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Bucha as the city marked one year of withdrawal of Russian forces and recapture by Ukrainian troops.

"The battle for the foundation of the free world is taking place on Ukrainian land. We will definitely win. Russian evil will fall, right here in Ukraine," Zelensky said.

He earlier called Bucha "a symbol of the atrocities" committed by Russia's forces, who have been linked to the extra-judicial killings of unarmed civilians in Bucha.

"We will never forgive. We will punish every perpetrator," Zelensky said in a statement on social media.

<h2>Belarus urges for 'truce', but also ready to host Russian nukes</h2>

Belarus President Alexander Lukasheknko, who is a close ally of Vladimir Putin, has urged Moscow and Kyiv to help broker a "truce".

"We must stop now, before an escalation begins. I'll take the risk of suggesting an end of hostilities... a declaration of a truce," Lukashenko said during a televised state of the nation address.

However, he also expressed readiness to host Russian nukes on the territory of Belarus.

"If need be, Putin and I will decide and introduce here, if necessary, strategic weapons," he said, referring to long-range missiles.&nbsp;

"We will stop at nothing to defend our countries, our states and our people," Lukashenko said in a televised address to the nation. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (March 31) adopted a new foreign policy strategy which sets elimination of Western dominance in global politics as a priority.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (March 31) adopted a new foreign policy strategy which sets elimination of Western dominance in global politics as a priority. The new strategy has come on the first anniversary of Russia's withdrawal from Ukraine's Bucha. Russian forces are facing opposition from Ukraine troops over control of city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine. "The Russian Federation intends to give priority to the elimination of vestiges of the dominance of the United States and other unfriendly countries in world politics," according to the new 42-page document, reports AFP. According to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, the new policy document deems the West to be an 'existential' threat to Russia. "The existential nature of threats to the security and development of our country, driven by the actions of unfriendly states is recognised" in the policy, Lavrov said during a televised meeting of Russia's security council. "The United States of America is directly named as the main instigator and driver of anti-Russian sentiment," he added. Interestingly, the foreign policy document singles out China and India as its main allies on the world stage. It stresses the importance of "the deepening of ties and coordination with friendly sovereign global centres of power and development located on the Eurasian continent," reports AFP. Will defeat 'Russian evil,' says Zelensky Earlier on Friday, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Bucha as the city marked one year of withdrawal of Russian forces and recapture by Ukrainian troops. "The battle for the foundation of the free world is taking place on Ukrainian land. We will definitely win. Russian evil will fall, right here in Ukraine," Zelensky said. He earlier called Bucha "a symbol of the atrocities" committed by Russia's forces, who have been linked to the extra-judicial killings of unarmed civilians in Bucha. "We will never forgive. We will punish every perpetrator," Zelensky said in a statement on social media. Belarus urges for 'truce', but also ready to host Russian nukes Belarus President Alexander Lukasheknko, who is a close ally of Vladimir Putin, has urged Moscow and Kyiv to help broker a "truce". "We must stop now, before an escalation begins. I'll take the risk of suggesting an end of hostilities... a declaration of a truce," Lukashenko said during a televised state of the nation address. However, he also expressed readiness to host Russian nukes on the territory of Belarus. "If need be, Putin and I will decide and introduce here, if necessary, strategic weapons," he said, referring to long-range missiles. "We will stop at nothing to defend our countries, our states and our people," Lukashenko said in a televised address to the nation. (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 looks for ‘elimination’ of western ‘dominance’ as it adopts new foreign policy

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who is currently on a visit to China, said on Friday (March 31) that he expressed concerns over Russia's offensive in Ukraine during a meeting earlier in the day with Chinese President Xi Jinping and encouraged him to talk to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Zelensky has said repeatedly that he would be open to talks with Xi- an overture the Chinese president is yet to respond to, despite multiple rounds of talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters in Beijing on Friday, Spanish Prime Minister Sanchez said he told Xi that Madrid supported the peace formula proposed by Zelensky in November last year, which included demands to restore Ukraine's territory to the status quo before Moscow's 2014 annexation of Crimea.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-has-no-right-to-advise-chinese-president-xi-jinping-on-whether-to-go-to-ukraine-577082">Russia says it has ‘no right’ to advise Chinese President Xi Jinping on whether to go to Ukraine</a>

"I transmitted our concern at the illegal invasion of Ukraine," Sanchez said, the news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

"I believe it's a plan that lays the foundations for a durable peace in Ukraine and is perfectly aligned with the United Nations charter and its principles, which have been violated by (Russian President Vladimir) Putin with his invasion," he said

Sanchez welcomed China's stance opposing the use of nuclear weapons in the conflict, and accused Russian President Putin of seeking to weaken the European Union's (EU) multilateral project for peace and welfare.&nbsp;

Before leaving for China, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/during-china-visit-spanish-pm-to-push-for-territorial-integrity-for-ukraine-575965">the Spanish PM said last week he would push for territorial integrity </a>for Ukraine. He is the second European leader to visit China after German Chancellor Olaf Scholz visited the East Asian country.&nbsp;

Spain, a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), has been a staunch ally of Ukraine. On Wednesday, Spanish Defence Minister Margarita Robles said that the government would send six German-made &nbsp;2A4 Leopard tanks to the war-torn country after the April 9 Easter holiday.&nbsp;

"By sending the Leopards, we will continue to help the Ukrainian people... to defend themselves against an absolutely unjust attack," Robles said, adding, Madrid would repair another four tanks which would be sent in near future.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who is currently on a visit to China, said on Friday (March 31) that he expressed concerns over Russia's offensive in Ukraine during a meeting earlier in the day with Chinese President Xi Jinping and encouraged him to talk to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who is currently on a visit to China, said on Friday (March 31) that he expressed concerns over Russia's offensive in Ukraine during a meeting earlier in the day with Chinese President Xi Jinping and encouraged him to talk to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Zelensky has said repeatedly that he would be open to talks with Xi- an overture the Chinese president is yet to respond to, despite multiple rounds of talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Speaking to reporters in Beijing on Friday, Spanish Prime Minister Sanchez said he told Xi that Madrid supported the peace formula proposed by Zelensky in November last year, which included demands to restore Ukraine's territory to the status quo before Moscow's 2014 annexation of Crimea. ALSO READ | Russia says it has ‘no right’ to advise Chinese President Xi Jinping on whether to go to Ukraine "I transmitted our concern at the illegal invasion of Ukraine," Sanchez said, the news agency Reuters reported. "I believe it's a plan that lays the foundations for a durable peace in Ukraine and is perfectly aligned with the United Nations charter and its principles, which have been violated by (Russian President Vladimir) Putin with his invasion," he said Sanchez welcomed China's stance opposing the use of nuclear weapons in the conflict, and accused Russian President Putin of seeking to weaken the European Union's (EU) multilateral project for peace and welfare. Before leaving for China, the Spanish PM said last week he would push for territorial integrity for Ukraine. He is the second European leader to visit China after German Chancellor Olaf Scholz visited the East Asian country. Spain, a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), has been a staunch ally of Ukraine. On Wednesday, Spanish Defence Minister Margarita Robles said that the government would send six German-made 2A4 Leopard tanks to the war-torn country after the April 9 Easter holiday. "By sending the Leopards, we will continue to help the Ukrainian people... to defend themselves against an absolutely unjust attack," Robles said, adding, Madrid would repair another four tanks which would be sent in near future. (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: Encouraged Chinese prez Xi to talk to Zelensky, says Spanish PM

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (March&nbsp;30) signed a decree on spring conscription, which will apparently begin on April 1 and last until July 15, Russian state-owned news agency RIA reported.&nbsp;

The official online portal of legal information of the Russian government published the document to divulge details. The call up is for those who are not in the reserve and meet the requirements of the law "On military duty and military service".&nbsp; 
 
The conscription campaign is calling 147,000 citizens up for statutory military service.&nbsp;&nbsp;

RIA also reported that the head of state has also instructed the government, regional authorities and draft commissions to make sure that the draft-related activities are implemented. &nbsp;

The news agency mentioned that using the same decree, Putin also decided to dismiss "from military service soldiers, sailors, sergeants and foremen whose term of military service has expired."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;In Bakhmut, Russia-Ukraine fight Europe's bloodiest infantry battle since world war II&nbsp;

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The report also noted the clarification of Andrei Kartapolov, the head of the State Duma Defense Committee, who said earlier today that the conscripts will not be sent to serve in the DPR, LPR, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a report on Tass stated that on average around 130,000 people have been called up in each of the spring and autumn campaigns in recent years. &nbsp; 
 
in September 2022, Putin had signed an order calling up 120,000 people for the autumn campaign. At the time, Tass news agency had quoted the defence ministry as saying the conscription was not in any way related to the special military operation — the official term used by Russia&nbsp;for the war in Ukraine.

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;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The report also noted the clarification of Andrei Kartapolov, the head of the State Duma Defense Committee, who said earlier today that the conscripts will not be sent to serve in the DPR, LPR, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (March 30) signed a decree on spring conscription, which will apparently begin on April 1 and last until July 15, Russian state-owned news agency RIA reported.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (March 30) signed a decree on spring conscription, which will apparently begin on April 1 and last until July 15, Russian state-owned news agency RIA reported. The official online portal of legal information of the Russian government published the document to divulge details. The call up is for those who are not in the reserve and meet the requirements of the law "On military duty and military service". The conscription campaign is calling 147,000 citizens up for statutory military service. RIA also reported that the head of state has also instructed the government, regional authorities and draft commissions to make sure that the draft-related activities are implemented. The news agency mentioned that using the same decree, Putin also decided to dismiss "from military service soldiers, sailors, sergeants and foremen whose term of military service has expired." WATCH | In Bakhmut, Russia-Ukraine fight Europe's bloodiest infantry battle since world war II × The report also noted the clarification of Andrei Kartapolov, the head of the State Duma Defense Committee, who said earlier today that the conscripts will not be sent to serve in the DPR, LPR, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions. Meanwhile, a report on Tass stated that on average around 130,000 people have been called up in each of the spring and autumn campaigns in recent years. in September 2022, Putin had signed an order calling up 120,000 people for the autumn campaign. At the time, Tass news agency had quoted the defence ministry as saying the conscription was not in any way related to the special military operation — the official term used by Russia for the war in Ukraine. 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. (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. The report also noted the clarification of Andrei Kartapolov, the head of the State Duma Defense Committee, who said earlier today that the conscripts will not be sent to serve in the DPR, LPR, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions.

Putin signs decree on spring conscription, calling up 147,000 for statutory military service: Report

The Kremlin said on Wednesday (March 29) that Russia has "no right" to advise Chinese President Xi Jinping on whether or not he should visit Ukraine.&nbsp;

The news agency Associated Press reported earlier on Wednesday that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has extended an invitation to the Chinese leader to visit the war-torn nation.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "We know China's balanced position, we value it highly and we believe the leader of China makes his own decisions on the expediency of certain contacts."

"We have no right to offer any advice here," Peskov said.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Xi visited Russia and discussed various issues of mutual interest, including its peace plan to advocate for dialogue and an eventual ceasefire in the Ukraine war.&nbsp;

WATCH | Russia says oil sales to India surged amid war in Ukraine&nbsp;

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China said that it hopes to play a constructive role in resolving the tensions between Russia and Ukraine. Beijing came up with the peace plan in the form of a 12-point foreign ministry paper for a gradual de-escalation between the warring nations.&nbsp;

The Chinese plan met with a dismissive response in Washington, but&nbsp;got a massive push with the Russia-China summit as Beijing seeks to portray itself as a neutral party in the Ukraine conflict and now got a platform to make the plan a reality.&nbsp;

America has called out Beijing's refusal to condemn Russia's invasion and the US has also accused Beijing of mulling arms exports to Moscow. China has vociferously denied the claims.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ukraine has welcomed China's diplomatic involvement but Zelensky has said he will only consider peace settlements after Russian troops leave Ukrainian territory.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The Kremlin said on Wednesday (March 29) that Russia has "no right" to advise Chinese President Xi Jinping on whether or not he should visit Ukraine. The news agency Associated Press reported earlier on Wednesday that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has extended an invitation to the Chinese leader to visit the war-torn nation.

The Kremlin said on Wednesday (March 29) that Russia has "no right" to advise Chinese President Xi Jinping on whether or not he should visit Ukraine. The news agency Associated Press reported earlier on Wednesday that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has extended an invitation to the Chinese leader to visit the war-torn nation. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "We know China's balanced position, we value it highly and we believe the leader of China makes his own decisions on the expediency of certain contacts." "We have no right to offer any advice here," Peskov said. Earlier this month, Xi visited Russia and discussed various issues of mutual interest, including its peace plan to advocate for dialogue and an eventual ceasefire in the Ukraine war. WATCH | Russia says oil sales to India surged amid war in Ukraine × China said that it hopes to play a constructive role in resolving the tensions between Russia and Ukraine. Beijing came up with the peace plan in the form of a 12-point foreign ministry paper for a gradual de-escalation between the warring nations. The Chinese plan met with a dismissive response in Washington, but got a massive push with the Russia-China summit as Beijing seeks to portray itself as a neutral party in the Ukraine conflict and now got a platform to make the plan a reality. America has called out Beijing's refusal to condemn Russia's invasion and the US has also accused Beijing of mulling arms exports to Moscow. China has vociferously denied the claims. Meanwhile, Ukraine has welcomed China's diplomatic involvement but Zelensky has said he will only consider peace settlements after Russian troops leave Ukrainian territory. (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 says it has ‘no right’ to advise Chinese President Xi Jinping on whether to go to Ukraine

As the battle for Bakhmut intensifies, Ukraine has acknowledged that Russia&nbsp;has made some gains inside the eastern battlefield city. However, Kyiv insisted Thursday that it was inflicting even greater losses on the Russian attackers. The mining city of Bakhmut has been at the centre of the conflict for months as Russian forces seek a win since their last one in mid-2022.

Ukraine has been on the defensive for nearly five months but says it is planning a counteroffensive soon.

"Enemy forces had a degree of success in their actions aimed at storming the city of Bakhmut," the General Staff of the Ukrainian armed forces said in an overnight report. "Our defenders are holding the city and are repelling numerous enemy attacks."

Deputy defence minister Hanna Malyar said in a social media post that losses were inevitable, but "the enemy's losses are many times greater".

Serhiy Cherevatyi, a Ukrainian military spokesperson, told national television: "Bakhmut remains the epicentre of military activity...It's still constantly 'hot' there."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wall-street-journal-reporter-detained-in-russia-on-suspicion-of-espionage-russian-agencies-577230">Wall Street Journal reporter detained in Russia on suspicion of espionage</a>

The report did not detail what gains was Russia making. According to a think tank of the Institute for the Study of War, Russian troops and Wagner mercenaries have captured territory in the south and southwest of the city over the past two days. Moreover, Wagner has occupied a metal plant in its north this week.

Tense street fighting has been going on inside Bakhmut, with Russian forces advancing slowly. Kyiv looked set to abandon the city weeks back, but that didn't happen and the Ukrainian troops are now hoping to break the attacking force.

Reports suggest that Russia's campaign is slowing down. The number of daily Russian attacks on the front line reported by Ukraine's general staff has declined almost by half over the past four weeks.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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As the battle for Bakhmut intensifies, Ukraine has acknowledged that Russia has made some gains inside the eastern battlefield city. However, Kyiv insisted Thursday that it was inflicting even greater losses on the Russian attackers.

As the battle for Bakhmut intensifies, Ukraine has acknowledged that Russia has made some gains inside the eastern battlefield city. However, Kyiv insisted Thursday that it was inflicting even greater losses on the Russian attackers. The mining city of Bakhmut has been at the centre of the conflict for months as Russian forces seek a win since their last one in mid-2022. Ukraine has been on the defensive for nearly five months but says it is planning a counteroffensive soon. "Enemy forces had a degree of success in their actions aimed at storming the city of Bakhmut," the General Staff of the Ukrainian armed forces said in an overnight report. "Our defenders are holding the city and are repelling numerous enemy attacks." Deputy defence minister Hanna Malyar said in a social media post that losses were inevitable, but "the enemy's losses are many times greater". Serhiy Cherevatyi, a Ukrainian military spokesperson, told national television: "Bakhmut remains the epicentre of military activity...It's still constantly 'hot' there." Also Read | Wall Street Journal reporter detained in Russia on suspicion of espionage The report did not detail what gains was Russia making. According to a think tank of the Institute for the Study of War, Russian troops and Wagner mercenaries have captured territory in the south and southwest of the city over the past two days. Moreover, Wagner has occupied a metal plant in its north this week. Tense street fighting has been going on inside Bakhmut, with Russian forces advancing slowly. Kyiv looked set to abandon the city weeks back, but that didn't happen and the Ukrainian troops are now hoping to break the attacking force. Reports suggest that Russia's campaign is slowing down. The number of daily Russian attacks on the front line reported by Ukraine's general staff has declined almost by half over the past four weeks. (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 admits Russian gains in Bakhmut as the battle intensifies

Whenever we hear the word 'Uranium' in the context of a war, our antennas go up. The nuclear connotations immediately take us back to Second World War during which the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were flattened within seconds due to American nuclear bombs. Though (till now) there hasn't been another outright use of a nuclear bomb in a conflict, 'depleted uranium' has become something of a buzz in connection with ongoing conflict in Ukraine.&nbsp;

<h2>What is depleted uranium?</h2>

Depleted uranium is naturally occurring uranaium, except it has been stripped of most, but not all, of its radioactivity. In nerdspeak, depleted uranium is a waste material formed during the process of enrichment of uranium for its use in nuclear weapons and nuclear power plants.

<h2>What is the use of depleted uranium?</h2>

Depleted uranium can be used in weapons to make them more devastating. It can be put on the tips of tank shells, mortar rounds and even bullets. Such a treatment enhances ability of the weapons to penetrate enemy armour, something that can be of decisive advantage in a battlefield. Projectiles with depleted uranium tips can ignite on impact. This adds another element to their destructive capability.

<h2>Have weapons with depleted uranium been used before?</h2>

Yes, they were used in Iraq war in 2003. Before that, they were used in Kosovo (1999) and in Gulf War (1991).

<h2>The biological aspect: Does depleted uranium cause cancer?</h2>

World Health Organization's (WHO) International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) lists depleted uranium as group 1 carcinogen.

Though depleted uranium is stripped of most of its radioactivity, it still has low levels of it. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) thus advises caution while handling depleted uranium.

A study carried out by team of researchers from American University of Beirut and Rutgers University has found "positive associations between uranium exposure and adverse health outcomes" among Iraqi population. The study has been featured by National Library of Medicine (NLM).

The study says that opponents of depleted uranium assert that its use resulted in increased rate of birth defects and cancers in Iraq after use of such weaponry.

The researchers also say that their findings imply that US sanctions on Iraq 'may have played a role in limiting research and publication on the health impacts of weaponised uranium on the Iraqi population.'

A United Nations study carried out over situation in Kosovo right after the conflict noted that if projectiles like bullets, tipped with depleted uranium are lying on ground and picked up by someone from the local population, it may result in 'local radiation doses above safety standards.' This can happen if the bullet is kept in pocket or worn in a chain around the neck.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-retaliation-to-russia-pulling-back-from-new-start-treaty-us-decides-to-withhold-nuclear-data-576798">In retaliation to Russia pulling back from New START treaty, US decides to withhold nuclear data</a> 
&nbsp;

The study also noted that bullets embedded in the ground, several metres from the surface, pose 'risk of future DU contamination of groundwater and drinking water'.

<h2>Depleted uranium, the political aspect</h2>

Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24, 2022. After sustained gains in first few months of the conflict, Russian forces had to retreat from several areas in the face of Ukrainian counterattack. Conquering Ukraine has not been a walk in the park for Russia as it was initially feared.

The Russian camp has been issuing nuclear threats for many months now, something that the West is worried about. Former Russian president and a staunch Putin-ally, Dmitry Medvedev, has been regular in hinting that Russia was very open to consider the nuclear option.

Watch | Joe Biden expresses concern over Vladimir Putin's move to station nukes, calls it dangerous

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Expressing his dismay over West's supply of weapons to Ukraine, Medvedev said last month that this could lead to a nuclear war.

"Our enemies are doing just that, not wanting to understand that their goals will certainly lead to a total fiasco. Loss for everyone. A collapse. Apocalypse. Where you forget for centuries about your former life, until the rubble ceases to emit radiation," he said, as quoted by the daily Izvestia.

In short, anything 'nuclear' represents a clear and devastating escalation of the current conflict in Ukraine.

Uranium, even if depleted, thus, may have become an uncomfortable 'U-word' especially when both camps are high on war-speak.

The West has so far been generous in helping Ukraine with weapons and other aid but provision of depleted uranium weapons might just open a new chapter.

Russia knows this and has chosen to warn the UK to not provide depleted uranium shells to Ukraine, saying that they contain a 'nuclear component'.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-successfully-tests-supersonic-missiles-at-target-in-sea-of-japan-576736">Russian Navy successfully tests supersonic missiles at mock target in Sea of Japan: Russian defence ministry</a>

It's not that Russia is helping to prevent nuclear turn of the Ukraine war. Russian President Vladimir Putin recently announced himself that Russia would station tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, a country, the ruling regime of which is strongly pro-Russia even if people aren't.

The world has seen horrific devastation nuclear weapons can cause. It is therefore eager to avoid nuclear confrontation. The efforts have been successful till now at least, but everyone is looking warily at the Ukraine conflict for sure. A lot remains to be seen.

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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Whenever we hear the word 'Uranium' in the context of a war, our antennas go up. The nuclear connotations immediately take us back to Second World War during which the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were flattened within seconds due to American nuclear bombs.

Whenever we hear the word 'Uranium' in the context of a war, our antennas go up. The nuclear connotations immediately take us back to Second World War during which the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were flattened within seconds due to American nuclear bombs. Though (till now) there hasn't been another outright use of a nuclear bomb in a conflict, 'depleted uranium' has become something of a buzz in connection with ongoing conflict in Ukraine. What is depleted uranium? Depleted uranium is naturally occurring uranaium, except it has been stripped of most, but not all, of its radioactivity. In nerdspeak, depleted uranium is a waste material formed during the process of enrichment of uranium for its use in nuclear weapons and nuclear power plants. What is the use of depleted uranium? Depleted uranium can be used in weapons to make them more devastating. It can be put on the tips of tank shells, mortar rounds and even bullets. Such a treatment enhances ability of the weapons to penetrate enemy armour, something that can be of decisive advantage in a battlefield. Projectiles with depleted uranium tips can ignite on impact. This adds another element to their destructive capability. Have weapons with depleted uranium been used before? Yes, they were used in Iraq war in 2003. Before that, they were used in Kosovo (1999) and in Gulf War (1991). The biological aspect: Does depleted uranium cause cancer? World Health Organization's (WHO) International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) lists depleted uranium as group 1 carcinogen. Though depleted uranium is stripped of most of its radioactivity, it still has low levels of it. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) thus advises caution while handling depleted uranium. A study carried out by team of researchers from American University of Beirut and Rutgers University has found "positive associations between uranium exposure and adverse health outcomes" among Iraqi population. The study has been featured by National Library of Medicine (NLM). The study says that opponents of depleted uranium assert that its use resulted in increased rate of birth defects and cancers in Iraq after use of such weaponry. The researchers also say that their findings imply that US sanctions on Iraq 'may have played a role in limiting research and publication on the health impacts of weaponised uranium on the Iraqi population.' A United Nations study carried out over situation in Kosovo right after the conflict noted that if projectiles like bullets, tipped with depleted uranium are lying on ground and picked up by someone from the local population, it may result in 'local radiation doses above safety standards.' This can happen if the bullet is kept in pocket or worn in a chain around the neck. Also Read | In retaliation to Russia pulling back from New START treaty, US decides to withhold nuclear data The study also noted that bullets embedded in the ground, several metres from the surface, pose 'risk of future DU contamination of groundwater and drinking water'. Depleted uranium, the political aspect Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24, 2022. After sustained gains in first few months of the conflict, Russian forces had to retreat from several areas in the face of Ukrainian counterattack. Conquering Ukraine has not been a walk in the park for Russia as it was initially feared. The Russian camp has been issuing nuclear threats for many months now, something that the West is worried about. Former Russian president and a staunch Putin-ally, Dmitry Medvedev, has been regular in hinting that Russia was very open to consider the nuclear option. Watch | Joe Biden expresses concern over Vladimir Putin's move to station nukes, calls it dangerous × Expressing his dismay over West's supply of weapons to Ukraine, Medvedev said last month that this could lead to a nuclear war. "Our enemies are doing just that, not wanting to understand that their goals will certainly lead to a total fiasco. Loss for everyone. A collapse. Apocalypse. Where you forget for centuries about your former life, until the rubble ceases to emit radiation," he said, as quoted by the daily Izvestia. In short, anything 'nuclear' represents a clear and devastating escalation of the current conflict in Ukraine. Uranium, even if depleted, thus, may have become an uncomfortable 'U-word' especially when both camps are high on war-speak. The West has so far been generous in helping Ukraine with weapons and other aid but provision of depleted uranium weapons might just open a new chapter. Russia knows this and has chosen to warn the UK to not provide depleted uranium shells to Ukraine, saying that they contain a 'nuclear component'. Also Read | Russian Navy successfully tests supersonic missiles at mock target in Sea of Japan: Russian defence ministry It's not that Russia is helping to prevent nuclear turn of the Ukraine war. Russian President Vladimir Putin recently announced himself that Russia would station tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, a country, the ruling regime of which is strongly pro-Russia even if people aren't. The world has seen horrific devastation nuclear weapons can cause. It is therefore eager to avoid nuclear confrontation. The efforts have been successful till now at least, but everyone is looking warily at the Ukraine conflict for sure. A lot remains to be seen. 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 | What the fuss over depleted uranium in Ukraine war is about

War, that hoary ‘institution’ has returned as the arbiter of world politics and international relations. The maneuverings around AUKUS, the QUAD and the incipient but budding militarisation by the principal Cold War 2.0 antagonists- China and the United States- are elements of the militarisation of international relations. But had war really disappeared from the fabric and vitals of world politics?&nbsp;

No.&nbsp;

If Gulf War I and II along with mini conflicts around the world are any indication. It may be that the world was led to believe that war had disappeared from the political life of states and relations between these. But assuming that war is no longer salient but has been given an impetus by Putin’s Ukraine war, how is the non-West to comport itself? Should it align itself with either of the principal adversaries? Should it (the global South) comport itself as a separate entity? Or should it take a leaf from the play of raison d’etat and look after itself? What would this mean in practice?

Watch | Joe Biden expresses concern over Vladimir Putin's move to station nukes, calls it dangerous

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Post the outbreak of Ukraine war, the global South has once again become important. It will be and is being wooed by powers that be in a power configuration that is ‘loosely bipolar’. In the previous global confrontation between the United States and the former USSR, by and large the global South latched onto either side for petty crumbs- foreign aid, arms supplies and support for issues that the South was bedeviled by.&nbsp;

I am not suggesting here that the non-West in the putative Great Power conflict between China and the West extort rents from either side. No, that would not only be petty but also self-defeating. If ‘more than crumbs’ are to be sought after, then that would, among other things mean that the non-West is still colonised (in the mind) and is analogous to the ‘brown sahib’ of the South Asian variant who grovels before the ‘white’ west, stands erect before the white sahib to take some crumbs home.

So what is the non-West or the global South to do?

Comport and conduct itself with self-respect and honorably is the answer.

What would this mean in practice?

One prong of the answer is to stay non-aligned. But this might neither be prudent nor expedient. The non-west or the global South must identify its interests as a collective entity and group and either as individual constituent units or as a group define itself. This self-definition is extremely important: it will determine that the non-West is neither seen as a pawn to be instrumentalised in a Great Power conflict nor does it become a groveling entity ever ready to be used by either side.

What would a robust and vigorous self-definition and identification of interest(s) mean?

At one level, it would mean and entail understanding the fact that the non-West is not beholden to any side: It is what is – neither the East nor the West. By that I mean the non-West must straddle and occupy the middle ground and then engage in ‘cherry picking’- more philosophically and ideationally than in material terms. But cherry-picking must not mean donning and adopting wholesale ideas say of the West but synthesis of the best that the West has to offer with the non-West’s traditions and philosophies, privileging its own idioms in a non-chauvinistic manner.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/with-ukraine-war-at-critical-junction-china-takes-bigger-role-573714">With Ukraine war at critical junction, China takes bigger role</a>

With respect to interest identification, it is pretty simple. The non-West’s major interest is economic growth and development allied to the vitals of ‘power as interest’. Economic growth and development would mean the primacy of multi-lateral co-operation in these spheres. &nbsp;Here the famed phrase of Deng Ziao Peng’s phrase, ‘No matter if it is a white or a black cat. As long as it can catch mice, it is a good cat’ would be apt and appropriate for the non-West or the global South.

But it is in the realm of ‘interest as power’ or its converse, matters become tricky. The non-West must understand the nature of power in the 21st century: Is it in hard power or smart power- the synthesis of soft and hard power? Does power lie in advanced technology and its various applications or human capital development? Or does it lie in culture and applied knowledge? Or in media production? Or even though this ‘list’ is not exhaustive does power lie in all these forms and dimensions?

I would posit that power is a compendium of all these forms and it is here that the non-West or the global South must focus on. But this focus must be non-adversarial and tread a fine line where the non-West carves out its own identity and craft a paradigm of power where, ‘ it neither becomes the servant of the sahibs’ nor latches onto the other adversarial great power.&nbsp;

This, to repeat, is a fine, delicate path to tread upon and it is here that the diplomatic talent, finesse and craft of international relations will come into play. The post-Ukraine war world is a ’new’ world defined by a degree of disorder. This is a potential opportunity for the non-West or the global South to redefine and re-assert itself in an idiom that smells of roses. Is the non- West upto it? Time will tell...

(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.)

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&nbsp;

War, that hoary ‘institution’ has returned as the arbiter of world politics and international relations. The maneuverings around AUKUS, the QUAD and the incipient but budding militarisation by the principal Cold War 2.

War, that hoary ‘institution’ has returned as the arbiter of world politics and international relations. The maneuverings around AUKUS, the QUAD and the incipient but budding militarisation by the principal Cold War 2.0 antagonists- China and the United States- are elements of the militarisation of international relations. But had war really disappeared from the fabric and vitals of world politics? No. If Gulf War I and II along with mini conflicts around the world are any indication. It may be that the world was led to believe that war had disappeared from the political life of states and relations between these. But assuming that war is no longer salient but has been given an impetus by Putin’s Ukraine war, how is the non-West to comport itself? Should it align itself with either of the principal adversaries? Should it (the global South) comport itself as a separate entity? Or should it take a leaf from the play of raison d’etat and look after itself? What would this mean in practice? Watch | Joe Biden expresses concern over Vladimir Putin's move to station nukes, calls it dangerous × Post the outbreak of Ukraine war, the global South has once again become important. It will be and is being wooed by powers that be in a power configuration that is ‘loosely bipolar’. In the previous global confrontation between the United States and the former USSR, by and large the global South latched onto either side for petty crumbs- foreign aid, arms supplies and support for issues that the South was bedeviled by. I am not suggesting here that the non-West in the putative Great Power conflict between China and the West extort rents from either side. No, that would not only be petty but also self-defeating. If ‘more than crumbs’ are to be sought after, then that would, among other things mean that the non-West is still colonised (in the mind) and is analogous to the ‘brown sahib’ of the South Asian variant who grovels before the ‘white’ west, stands erect before the white sahib to take some crumbs home. So what is the non-West or the global South to do? Comport and conduct itself with self-respect and honorably is the answer. What would this mean in practice? One prong of the answer is to stay non-aligned. But this might neither be prudent nor expedient. The non-west or the global South must identify its interests as a collective entity and group and either as individual constituent units or as a group define itself. This self-definition is extremely important: it will determine that the non-West is neither seen as a pawn to be instrumentalised in a Great Power conflict nor does it become a groveling entity ever ready to be used by either side. What would a robust and vigorous self-definition and identification of interest(s) mean? At one level, it would mean and entail understanding the fact that the non-West is not beholden to any side: It is what is – neither the East nor the West. By that I mean the non-West must straddle and occupy the middle ground and then engage in ‘cherry picking’- more philosophically and ideationally than in material terms. But cherry-picking must not mean donning and adopting wholesale ideas say of the West but synthesis of the best that the West has to offer with the non-West’s traditions and philosophies, privileging its own idioms in a non-chauvinistic manner. Also Read | With Ukraine war at critical junction, China takes bigger role With respect to interest identification, it is pretty simple. The non-West’s major interest is economic growth and development allied to the vitals of ‘power as interest’. Economic growth and development would mean the primacy of multi-lateral co-operation in these spheres. Here the famed phrase of Deng Ziao Peng’s phrase, ‘No matter if it is a white or a black cat. As long as it can catch mice, it is a good cat’ would be apt and appropriate for the non-West or the global South. But it is in the realm of ‘interest as power’ or its converse, matters become tricky. The non-West must understand the nature of power in the 21st century: Is it in hard power or smart power- the synthesis of soft and hard power? Does power lie in advanced technology and its various applications or human capital development? Or does it lie in culture and applied knowledge? Or in media production? Or even though this ‘list’ is not exhaustive does power lie in all these forms and dimensions? I would posit that power is a compendium of all these forms and it is here that the non-West or the global South must focus on. But this focus must be non-adversarial and tread a fine line where the non-West carves out its own identity and craft a paradigm of power where, ‘ it neither becomes the servant of the sahibs’ nor latches onto the other adversarial great power. This, to repeat, is a fine, delicate path to tread upon and it is here that the diplomatic talent, finesse and craft of international relations will come into play. The post-Ukraine war world is a ’new’ world defined by a degree of disorder. This is a potential opportunity for the non-West or the global South to redefine and re-assert itself in an idiom that smells of roses. Is the non- West upto it? Time will tell... (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.) 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 ×

World disorder: Can the Global South define itself?

Belarus said on Tuesday (March 28) that it was forced to host Russian nuclear weapons after the "unprecedented" pressure from the NATO nations and the West. The staunch Russian ally further insisted that their deployment did not violate international agreements. Belarus accused&nbsp;the United States and its allies of putting pressure with the aim of changing its political and geopolitical direction.&nbsp;

Putin recently talked about tactical nuclear weapons in a televised interview, saying that Russia would deploy the weapons "without violating our international agreements on nuclear non-proliferation". Putin had mentioned that he spoke to his Belarusian ally Alexander Lukashenko and that they had "agreed to do the same".&nbsp;

As quoted by news agencies, the Belarusian foreign ministry in Minsk said it&nbsp;"is forced to respond to strengthen its own security and defence capability."&nbsp;

It said, "Over the last two and a half years, the Republic of Belarus has been subjected to unprecedented political, economic and information pressure from the United States, the United Kingdom and its NATO allies, as well as the member states of the European Union."&nbsp;

"In view of these circumstances, and the legitimate concerns and risks in the sphere of national security arising from them, Belarus is forced to respond by strengthening its own security and defence capabilities," it further added.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky accuses Russia of holding Zaporizhzhia hostage&nbsp;

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Recently, a training exercise took place involving an air defence unit armed with Russian-supplied Tor M2K missile launchers. Belarus's defence ministry released a video showing details.&nbsp;

According to Belarusian and Russian defence and industry sources, the system is capable of bringing down a variety of enemy targets, including cruise missiles, glided bombs, drones and aircraft.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Poland's prime minister said on Tuesday that Belarus will certainly face further European sanctions due to a Russian plan to station tactical nuclear weapons in the country. His remarks came as tensions between Warsaw and Minsk hit new highs.&nbsp;

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki told a news conference in Bucharest: "This step taken by Russia... the announcement of the deployment of nuclear weapons in Belarus, will certainly lead to the announcement of additional sanctions, the level of sanctions will be much more severe for the Lukashenko regime."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Belarus said on Tuesday (March 28) that it was forced to host Russian nuclear weapons after the "unprecedented" pressure from the NATO nations and the West. The staunch Russian ally further insisted that their deployment did not violate international agreements.

Belarus said on Tuesday (March 28) that it was forced to host Russian nuclear weapons after the "unprecedented" pressure from the NATO nations and the West. The staunch Russian ally further insisted that their deployment did not violate international agreements. Belarus accused the United States and its allies of putting pressure with the aim of changing its political and geopolitical direction. Putin recently talked about tactical nuclear weapons in a televised interview, saying that Russia would deploy the weapons "without violating our international agreements on nuclear non-proliferation". Putin had mentioned that he spoke to his Belarusian ally Alexander Lukashenko and that they had "agreed to do the same". As quoted by news agencies, the Belarusian foreign ministry in Minsk said it "is forced to respond to strengthen its own security and defence capability." It said, "Over the last two and a half years, the Republic of Belarus has been subjected to unprecedented political, economic and information pressure from the United States, the United Kingdom and its NATO allies, as well as the member states of the European Union." "In view of these circumstances, and the legitimate concerns and risks in the sphere of national security arising from them, Belarus is forced to respond by strengthening its own security and defence capabilities," it further added. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky accuses Russia of holding Zaporizhzhia hostage × Recently, a training exercise took place involving an air defence unit armed with Russian-supplied Tor M2K missile launchers. Belarus's defence ministry released a video showing details. According to Belarusian and Russian defence and industry sources, the system is capable of bringing down a variety of enemy targets, including cruise missiles, glided bombs, drones and aircraft. Meanwhile, Poland's prime minister said on Tuesday that Belarus will certainly face further European sanctions due to a Russian plan to station tactical nuclear weapons in the country. His remarks came as tensions between Warsaw and Minsk hit new highs. Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki told a news conference in Bucharest: "This step taken by Russia... the announcement of the deployment of nuclear weapons in Belarus, will certainly lead to the announcement of additional sanctions, the level of sanctions will be much more severe for the Lukashenko regime." (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.

'Pressure from the US...': Belarus justifies decision to host Russian tactical nuclear weapons

Russian President Vladimir Putin says that he has decided to deploy Russian nuclear weapons to Belarus. Ukraine says Belarus has become a nuclear hostage. Is Europe on the brink of a nuclear war?

Gravitas | Ukraine, Russia war: Putin to deploy nuclear weapons to Belarus

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said Russian troops were holding the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant "hostage" and its safety could not be guaranteed until they left it. The accusation came after Zelenksy visited the regions of Zaporizhzhia and Dnipro.

Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky accuses Russia of holding Zaporizhzhia hostage

The Hungarian parliament approved a bill on Monday (March 27) to allow Finland to join The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) once its application has been ratified by all 30 members of the alliance. The approval ends months of foot-dragging by the ruling Fidesz party on the matter.&nbsp;

Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin tweeted after the vote, she said: "Thank you for the decision with clear numbers!"&nbsp;

With 182 votes versus six against, a large majority of lawmakers approved the accession of the Nordic country into the military alliance.&nbsp;

The vote means that 29 out of 30 NATO member state parliaments have ratified Finland's accession. The last will be Turkey's assembly, which is expected to also give Helsinki the nod next month.

Initially, Finland aimed to join together with fellow NATO aspirant Sweden, a Nordic power facing a litany of disputes with Turkey that ultimately sunk its chance to join the bloc before an alliance summit in Vilnius in July.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas | Ukraine, Russia war: Putin to deploy nuclear weapons to Belarus&nbsp;

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"The NATO membership of Finland and Sweden will strengthen the security of the whole Alliance. It is in everyone's interest that Sweden also becomes a member of NATO before the Vilnius Summit," said Marin.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said that Turkey had decided on ratifying Helsinki's NATO bid. The claim came after reports emerged that Ankara's parliament will "highly likely" ratify Finland's NATO accession bid before mid-April.&nbsp;

After Russia began the invasion of Ukraine last year in February, Sweden and Finland applied to join the trans-Atlantic defence pact. However, both nations faced unexpected hurdles. To join NATO, all 30 members have to ratify any membership bids.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The Hungarian parliament approved a bill on Monday (March 27) to allow Finland to join The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) once its application has been ratified by all 30 members of the alliance.

The Hungarian parliament approved a bill on Monday (March 27) to allow Finland to join The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) once its application has been ratified by all 30 members of the alliance. The approval ends months of foot-dragging by the ruling Fidesz party on the matter. Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin tweeted after the vote, she said: "Thank you for the decision with clear numbers!" With 182 votes versus six against, a large majority of lawmakers approved the accession of the Nordic country into the military alliance. The vote means that 29 out of 30 NATO member state parliaments have ratified Finland's accession. The last will be Turkey's assembly, which is expected to also give Helsinki the nod next month. Initially, Finland aimed to join together with fellow NATO aspirant Sweden, a Nordic power facing a litany of disputes with Turkey that ultimately sunk its chance to join the bloc before an alliance summit in Vilnius in July. WATCH | Gravitas | Ukraine, Russia war: Putin to deploy nuclear weapons to Belarus × "The NATO membership of Finland and Sweden will strengthen the security of the whole Alliance. It is in everyone's interest that Sweden also becomes a member of NATO before the Vilnius Summit," said Marin. Earlier this month, Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said that Turkey had decided on ratifying Helsinki's NATO bid. The claim came after reports emerged that Ankara's parliament will "highly likely" ratify Finland's NATO accession bid before mid-April. After Russia began the invasion of Ukraine last year in February, Sweden and Finland applied to join the trans-Atlantic defence pact. However, both nations faced unexpected hurdles. To join NATO, all 30 members have to ratify any membership bids. (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.

Hungary parliament backs Finland's NATO accession

Kremlin said on Monday (March 27) that Russia won't change its plans of deploying tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, the neighbouring nation and a key ally of President Vladimir Putin, despite the growing criticisms globally. West has slammed Putin's announcement, with Ukraine even seeking an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council over the move.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "Such a reaction of course cannot influence Russian plans."&nbsp;

Recently, Putin talked about tactical nuclear weapons in a televised interview and said that Russia would deploy the weapons "without violating our international agreements on nuclear non-proliferation". Putin even stated that he spoke to his Belarusian ally Alexander Lukashenko and that they had "agreed to do the same".&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-shells-sloviansk-two-killed-and-29-wounded-official-576256">Russia shells Sloviansk, two killed and 29 wounded: Official</a>&nbsp;

The latest development has led to concerns over the nuclear escalation and also sparked fears that Belarus may join its ally's offensive, but Lukashenko said he would do so "only if attacked".&nbsp;

"Nothing unusual," said Putin, further arguing that the United States has been doing this for decades. "They have long placed their tactical nuclear weapons on the territory of their allies," Putin added.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Report says Russia moves up to 2nd place among major global economies&nbsp;

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A top security adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the Russian plans would destabilise Belarus, a nation which had been taken "hostage" by Moscow, as per the official.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
On the other hand, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said the United States had seen no sign that Putin had moved any nuclear weapons.&nbsp;

Kirby told US broadcaster CBS on Sunday: "We've in fact seen no indication that he has any intention to use nuclear weapons – period - inside Ukraine."&nbsp;

For the unversed, tactical nuclear weapons are powerful but they are slightly smaller. However, they can be used on the battlefield. In a report, the news agency Reuters explained the tactical nuclear weapons. The report mentioned academics and arms control negotiators have spent years arguing about how to define tactical nuclear weapons and the clue is in the name: they are nuclear weapons used for specific tactical gains on the battlefield, rather than, say, destroying the biggest cities of the US or Russia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Kremlin said on Monday (March 27) that Russia won't change its plans of deploying tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, the neighbouring nation and a key ally of President Vladimir Putin, despite the growing criticisms globally.

Kremlin said on Monday (March 27) that Russia won't change its plans of deploying tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, the neighbouring nation and a key ally of President Vladimir Putin, despite the growing criticisms globally. West has slammed Putin's announcement, with Ukraine even seeking an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council over the move. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "Such a reaction of course cannot influence Russian plans." Recently, Putin talked about tactical nuclear weapons in a televised interview and said that Russia would deploy the weapons "without violating our international agreements on nuclear non-proliferation". Putin even stated that he spoke to his Belarusian ally Alexander Lukashenko and that they had "agreed to do the same". ALSO READ | Russia shells Sloviansk, two killed and 29 wounded: Official The latest development has led to concerns over the nuclear escalation and also sparked fears that Belarus may join its ally's offensive, but Lukashenko said he would do so "only if attacked". "Nothing unusual," said Putin, further arguing that the United States has been doing this for decades. "They have long placed their tactical nuclear weapons on the territory of their allies," Putin added. WATCH | Report says Russia moves up to 2nd place among major global economies × A top security adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the Russian plans would destabilise Belarus, a nation which had been taken "hostage" by Moscow, as per the official. On the other hand, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said the United States had seen no sign that Putin had moved any nuclear weapons. Kirby told US broadcaster CBS on Sunday: "We've in fact seen no indication that he has any intention to use nuclear weapons – period - inside Ukraine." For the unversed, tactical nuclear weapons are powerful but they are slightly smaller. However, they can be used on the battlefield. In a report, the news agency Reuters explained the tactical nuclear weapons. The report mentioned academics and arms control negotiators have spent years arguing about how to define tactical nuclear weapons and the clue is in the name: they are nuclear weapons used for specific tactical gains on the battlefield, rather than, say, destroying the biggest cities of the US or Russia. (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.

West's reaction won't change plans to deploy nuclear weapons in Belarus: Kremlin

At least three people were reportedly injured in a drone explosion that took place in the centre of a Russian town on Sunday (March 26), the TASS news agency reported, citing a law enforcement source and an emergency service official. The officials have said that the blast occurred in the centre of Kireyevsk, located some 220 km south of Moscow.&nbsp;

Quoting a law enforcement agency source as saying, the news agency said, "The cause of the explosion in the Tula region was a tactical reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)."&nbsp;

The official claimed that "a&nbsp;Ukrainian Tu-141 Strizh UAV was the cause of an explosion and also mentioned that the drone was "packed with explosives".&nbsp;

A local emergency services representative told the Russian news agency that "the explosion sounded at 1519 (1219 GMT). Two victims, born in 2002 and 2006, have shrapnel wounds. Emergency services are on the scene."&nbsp;

"There is a crater. This explosion was in the heart of the city," the representative added.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russian President Putin: Not violating our international obligations&nbsp;

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Unverified images and videos circulated on social media platforms showed a muddy crater near a building. The roof and the walls looked heavily damaged. Shards of glass from broken windows spread across the stairwell of a nearby apartment block.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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At least three people were reportedly injured in a drone explosion that took place in the centre of a Russian town on Sunday (March 26), the TASS news agency reported, citing a law enforcement source and an emergency service official.

At least three people were reportedly injured in a drone explosion that took place in the centre of a Russian town on Sunday (March 26), the TASS news agency reported, citing a law enforcement source and an emergency service official. The officials have said that the blast occurred in the centre of Kireyevsk, located some 220 km south of Moscow. Quoting a law enforcement agency source as saying, the news agency said, "The cause of the explosion in the Tula region was a tactical reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)." The official claimed that "a Ukrainian Tu-141 Strizh UAV was the cause of an explosion and also mentioned that the drone was "packed with explosives". A local emergency services representative told the Russian news agency that "the explosion sounded at 1519 (1219 GMT). Two victims, born in 2002 and 2006, have shrapnel wounds. Emergency services are on the scene." "There is a crater. This explosion was in the heart of the city," the representative added. WATCH | Russian President Putin: Not violating our international obligations × Unverified images and videos circulated on social media platforms showed a muddy crater near a building. The roof and the walls looked heavily damaged. Shards of glass from broken windows spread across the stairwell of a nearby apartment block. (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.

Blast in Russian town caused by drone, three injured: Report

The war in Ukraine has raised the nuclear threat level to its highest since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis following the announcement of President Vladimir Putin that Russia will be stationing its tactical nuclear weapons on the territory of neighbouring Belarus.

Putin then went on to assert that the move would not violate the nuclear non-proliferation agreement&nbsp;saying that even US has stationed weapons across Europe, Russian state media reported.

This will be the first time since the mid-1990s that Moscow will have base&nbsp;nuclear arms outside the country.

Since last year, several countries have voiced concerns over the potential use of nuclear weapons by Russia in the ongoing Ukrainian war.

Though there has&nbsp;been occasional rhetoric&nbsp;about the possible use of nukes, Russia has never explicitly implied that it will be using nuclear ammunition in its war against Ukraine.

However, Saturday’s announcement made it clear that it won’t be shying away from using “tactical nuclear” weapons, and not the strategic (or full fuelled) nuclear bombs, if there is any threat to its sovereignty.

What are ‘tactical’ nuclear weapons?

According to experts, tactical or non-strategic nuclear weapons are used for specific tactical gains on the battlefield, rather than, destroying the biggest cities or causing widespread devastation.

They generally have small explosive power and are defined in contrast to strategic nuclear weapons, which are designed mostly to be targeted at the enemy interior far away from the war front against military bases, cities, towns, arms industries to damage the enemy's ability to wage war.

So far, no tactical nuclear weapon has ever been used in a combat situation.

The tactical nuclear weapons can be one kiloton or less (producing the equivalent to a thousand tonnes of the explosive TNT). The largest ones can be as big as 100 kilotons.

For comparison, the atomic bomb dropped by US on Hiroshima, Japan, in 1945 was 15 kilotons.

These tactical weapons were developed early during the Cold War era as method of deterrence. Apart from Russia, US and its European allies have these weapons as part of their "flexible response" to any threat from Russia and its allies.

How many tactical weapons does Russia have?

Limited information is available to know exactly how many tactical nuclear weapons Russia has&nbsp;because it is an area still shrouded in traditions of Cold War secrecy.

However, US intelligence pegs Russia’s number to about 2,000.

On other hand, the United States has around 200 such weapons, half of which are stationed at bases in Europe. These 12-ft B61 nuclear bombs, with different yields of 0.3 to 170 kilotons, are deployed at six air bases across Italy, Germany, Turkey, Belgium and the Netherlands, according to Reuters news agency.

How can they be used?

Tactical nuclear warheads can be placed on various types of missiles which are normally used to deliver conventional explosives, such as cruise missiles and artillery shells.

They can also be fired from aircraft and ships as anti-ship missiles, torpedoes and depth charges.

The US claims that Russia has recently been investing heavily in these weapons to improve their range and accuracy.

What are the concerns?

The United States has cautiously reacted to the news saying that the world faces the gravest nuclear danger since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, citing the remarks made by Putin during the Ukraine conflict.

However, Moscow says that his remarks have been taken out of context.

Kyiv and its Western allies fear tactical nuclear weapons could be used in battle after Putin and others warned Russia was prepared to use all its vast arsenal in defence.

Stationing nuclear weapons

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the US made strident efforts to return the Soviet nuclear weapons stationed in Belarus, Ukraine and Kazakhstan to Russia - which inherited the nuclear arsenal of the Soviet Union.

Since the weapons were returned in the early 1990s, Russia has not announced any nuclear weapon deployments outside its borders.

According to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, which was signed by the Soviet Union, no nuclear power can transfer nuclear weapons or technology to a non-nuclear power. But it does allow for the weapons to be deployed outside its borders but under its control - as with US nuclear weapons in Europe.

Who can order the launch of nuclear weapons?

As with other countries, the head of the state is the ultimate decision-maker. In Russia, President Vladimir Putin wields the power when it comes to ordering the use of Russian nuclear weapons, both strategic and non-strategic, according to its nuclear doctrine.

These weapons are stored in at least 30 military bases and silos under the control of the 12th Main Directorate of the defence ministry (12th GUMO) headed by Igor Kolesnikov, who reports directly to the defence minister.

In order to launch a strategic nuclear weapon strike, Putin would have to consult with senior allies from the Russian Security Council before ordering, via the general staff, that a warhead be joined with a delivery vehicle and prepared for a potential launch order.

Since Putin cannot predict the US response, Russia's entire nuclear posture would change: submarines would go to sea, missile forces would be put on full alert and strategic bombers would be visible at bases, ready for immediate take-off.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The war in Ukraine has raised the nuclear threat level to its highest since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis following the announcement of President Vladimir Putin that Russia will be stationing its tactical nuclear weapons on the territory of neighbouring Belarus.

The war in Ukraine has raised the nuclear threat level to its highest since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis following the announcement of President Vladimir Putin that Russia will be stationing its tactical nuclear weapons on the territory of neighbouring Belarus. Putin then went on to assert that the move would not violate the nuclear non-proliferation agreement saying that even US has stationed weapons across Europe, Russian state media reported. This will be the first time since the mid-1990s that Moscow will have base nuclear arms outside the country. Since last year, several countries have voiced concerns over the potential use of nuclear weapons by Russia in the ongoing Ukrainian war. Though there has been occasional rhetoric about the possible use of nukes, Russia has never explicitly implied that it will be using nuclear ammunition in its war against Ukraine. However, Saturday’s announcement made it clear that it won’t be shying away from using “tactical nuclear” weapons, and not the strategic (or full fuelled) nuclear bombs, if there is any threat to its sovereignty. What are ‘tactical’ nuclear weapons? According to experts, tactical or non-strategic nuclear weapons are used for specific tactical gains on the battlefield, rather than, destroying the biggest cities or causing widespread devastation. They generally have small explosive power and are defined in contrast to strategic nuclear weapons, which are designed mostly to be targeted at the enemy interior far away from the war front against military bases, cities, towns, arms industries to damage the enemy's ability to wage war. So far, no tactical nuclear weapon has ever been used in a combat situation. The tactical nuclear weapons can be one kiloton or less (producing the equivalent to a thousand tonnes of the explosive TNT). The largest ones can be as big as 100 kilotons. For comparison, the atomic bomb dropped by US on Hiroshima, Japan, in 1945 was 15 kilotons. These tactical weapons were developed early during the Cold War era as method of deterrence. Apart from Russia, US and its European allies have these weapons as part of their "flexible response" to any threat from Russia and its allies. How many tactical weapons does Russia have? Limited information is available to know exactly how many tactical nuclear weapons Russia has because it is an area still shrouded in traditions of Cold War secrecy. However, US intelligence pegs Russia’s number to about 2,000. On other hand, the United States has around 200 such weapons, half of which are stationed at bases in Europe. These 12-ft B61 nuclear bombs, with different yields of 0.3 to 170 kilotons, are deployed at six air bases across Italy, Germany, Turkey, Belgium and the Netherlands, according to Reuters news agency. How can they be used? Tactical nuclear warheads can be placed on various types of missiles which are normally used to deliver conventional explosives, such as cruise missiles and artillery shells. They can also be fired from aircraft and ships as anti-ship missiles, torpedoes and depth charges. The US claims that Russia has recently been investing heavily in these weapons to improve their range and accuracy. What are the concerns? The United States has cautiously reacted to the news saying that the world faces the gravest nuclear danger since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, citing the remarks made by Putin during the Ukraine conflict. However, Moscow says that his remarks have been taken out of context. Kyiv and its Western allies fear tactical nuclear weapons could be used in battle after Putin and others warned Russia was prepared to use all its vast arsenal in defence. Stationing nuclear weapons After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the US made strident efforts to return the Soviet nuclear weapons stationed in Belarus, Ukraine and Kazakhstan to Russia - which inherited the nuclear arsenal of the Soviet Union. Since the weapons were returned in the early 1990s, Russia has not announced any nuclear weapon deployments outside its borders. According to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, which was signed by the Soviet Union, no nuclear power can transfer nuclear weapons or technology to a non-nuclear power. But it does allow for the weapons to be deployed outside its borders but under its control - as with US nuclear weapons in Europe. Who can order the launch of nuclear weapons? As with other countries, the head of the state is the ultimate decision-maker. In Russia, President Vladimir Putin wields the power when it comes to ordering the use of Russian nuclear weapons, both strategic and non-strategic, according to its nuclear doctrine. These weapons are stored in at least 30 military bases and silos under the control of the 12th Main Directorate of the defence ministry (12th GUMO) headed by Igor Kolesnikov, who reports directly to the defence minister. In order to launch a strategic nuclear weapon strike, Putin would have to consult with senior allies from the Russian Security Council before ordering, via the general staff, that a warhead be joined with a delivery vehicle and prepared for a potential launch order. Since Putin cannot predict the US response, Russia's entire nuclear posture would change: submarines would go to sea, missile forces would be put on full alert and strategic bombers would be visible at bases, ready for immediate take-off. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained: What are tactical nuclear weapons, and how Russia may use them?

Spanish Prime Minister&nbsp;Pedro Sanchez said on Saturday (March 25) that during his visit to China next week, he would push for&nbsp;"territorial integrity" of&nbsp;war-torn Ukraine. Speaking to reporters at the Ibero-American Summit meeting in the Dominican Republic, Spanish Prime Minister Sanchez said that he would discuss peace prospects with Chinese President Xi Jinping,&nbsp;who is trying to position himself as a mediator in the war between Russia and Ukraine.

"The most important thing...is that when this peace is reached in Ukraine, it will be fair and lasting...and when we talk about fair, I mean that the territorial integrity of Ukraine, which has been violated by Putin, is respected," the prime minister added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-russia-and-china-not-creating-military-alliance-accuses-west-of-starting-to-build-new-axis-575891">Putin says Russia and China not creating military alliance; accuses West of ‘building WWI-like axis’</a>

Spain is a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and has been a&nbsp;staunch ally of Ukraine and promised to send 10 Leopard tanks to the war-torn country. Prime Minister Sanchez will meet Xi Jinping to discuss Beijing's peace plan to&nbsp;end Ukraine war.&nbsp;

Sanchez is the second leader of a European country to visit China since the beginning of the Covid pandemic. In November last year, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz had visited China.&nbsp;

The Spanish PM's visit comes as Spain&nbsp;will assume the presidency of the Council of the European Union in July.

Earlier this week, Chinese President Xi Jinping made&nbsp;a high-profile visit to Moscow and met Russian President Vladimir Putin. According to a joint statement on Thursday, Russia welcomed China's readiness to play a positive role in a political-diplomatic settlement of the Ukrainian crisis.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-anniversary-chinas-position-on-political-settlement-of-the-crisis-explained-in-12-points-565406">Ukraine war anniversary: China's position on political settlement of the crisis explained in 12 points</a>

"The Russian side positively assesses the objective and unbiased position of the Chinese side on the Ukrainian question. The parties are opposed to any states and their blocs damaging the legitimate security interests of other states in order to obtain military, political and other advantages," the joint statement, translated by the news agency Reuters, said.&nbsp;

During the meeting, Putin praised Beijing's&nbsp;12-point position paper on the conflict. The 12 points in the paper talked about&nbsp;resuming peace talks, ceasing hostilities, keeping nuclear power plants safe and protecting civilians and prisoners of war (POWs). However, the peace plan was criticised by the United States and some experts.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on Saturday (March 25) that during his visit to China next week, he would push for "territorial integrity" of war-torn Ukraine.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on Saturday (March 25) that during his visit to China next week, he would push for "territorial integrity" of war-torn Ukraine. Speaking to reporters at the Ibero-American Summit meeting in the Dominican Republic, Spanish Prime Minister Sanchez said that he would discuss peace prospects with Chinese President Xi Jinping, who is trying to position himself as a mediator in the war between Russia and Ukraine. "The most important thing...is that when this peace is reached in Ukraine, it will be fair and lasting...and when we talk about fair, I mean that the territorial integrity of Ukraine, which has been violated by Putin, is respected," the prime minister added. ALSO READ | Putin says Russia and China not creating military alliance; accuses West of ‘building WWI-like axis’ Spain is a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and has been a staunch ally of Ukraine and promised to send 10 Leopard tanks to the war-torn country. Prime Minister Sanchez will meet Xi Jinping to discuss Beijing's peace plan to end Ukraine war. Sanchez is the second leader of a European country to visit China since the beginning of the Covid pandemic. In November last year, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz had visited China. The Spanish PM's visit comes as Spain will assume the presidency of the Council of the European Union in July. Earlier this week, Chinese President Xi Jinping made a high-profile visit to Moscow and met Russian President Vladimir Putin. According to a joint statement on Thursday, Russia welcomed China's readiness to play a positive role in a political-diplomatic settlement of the Ukrainian crisis. ALSO READ | Ukraine war anniversary: China's position on political settlement of the crisis explained in 12 points "The Russian side positively assesses the objective and unbiased position of the Chinese side on the Ukrainian question. The parties are opposed to any states and their blocs damaging the legitimate security interests of other states in order to obtain military, political and other advantages," the joint statement, translated by the news agency Reuters, said. During the meeting, Putin praised Beijing's 12-point position paper on the conflict. The 12 points in the paper talked about resuming peace talks, ceasing hostilities, keeping nuclear power plants safe and protecting civilians and prisoners of war (POWs). However, the peace plan was criticised by the United States and some experts. (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.

During China visit, Spanish PM to push for ‘territorial integrity’ of Ukraine

To bolster the manpower of Russian forces, enlistment officers are reportedly working with universities and social service agencies to lure students and the unemployed to fight the war in Ukraine.

According to AP news agency, a new campaign has been launched across Russia, seeking recruits to replenish its troops for the battle.

Though it is difficult to determine the number of casualties from the Russian side, the UK’s Ministry of Defence has claimed that high attrition rates and deaths are stalling Russia’s advances in Ukraine.

Last September, as part of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s ‘partial’ call-up, around 300,000 reservists were mobilised. It was reported that the announcement created panic and tens of thousands of Russians fled the country rather than reporting at&nbsp;recruitment centres.

Though it is uncertain when another announcement will be made, the Russian media is reporting that men across the country are receiving summons from enlistment offices.

A resident of Moscow told AP news agency that his employer, a state-funded organisation, collected the military registration cards for all male employees of fighting age.

<h2>Russia to deploy tactical nuclear weapons, US reacts cautiously to move</h2>

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“It makes you nervous and scared — no one wants to all of a sudden end up in a war with a rifle in hands,” he was quoted as saying.

“The special operation is somewhat dragging on, so any surprises from the Russian authorities can be expected,” he added.

Local media further reported that officials are roping in regional governments to recruit a certain number of volunteers.

Some officials have even set up recruitment centres with the goal of signing men so that they can be sent into combat as professional soldiers.

Moreover, the government has been advertising the need for new recruits on the social media accounts of state institutions and organisations, including libraries and high schools.

One of the ads says that an enlisted soldier would get tax and loan repayment breaks, preferential university admission status for children, generous compensation for family if wounded or killed in action, and the status of a war veteran, which carries even more perks, reports AP.

(With inputs from agencies)

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. 
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To bolster the manpower of Russian forces, enlistment officers are reportedly working with universities and social service agencies to lure students and the unemployed to fight the war in Ukraine.

To bolster the manpower of Russian forces, enlistment officers are reportedly working with universities and social service agencies to lure students and the unemployed to fight the war in Ukraine. According to AP news agency, a new campaign has been launched across Russia, seeking recruits to replenish its troops for the battle. Though it is difficult to determine the number of casualties from the Russian side, the UK’s Ministry of Defence has claimed that high attrition rates and deaths are stalling Russia’s advances in Ukraine. Last September, as part of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s ‘partial’ call-up, around 300,000 reservists were mobilised. It was reported that the announcement created panic and tens of thousands of Russians fled the country rather than reporting at recruitment centres. Though it is uncertain when another announcement will be made, the Russian media is reporting that men across the country are receiving summons from enlistment offices. A resident of Moscow told AP news agency that his employer, a state-funded organisation, collected the military registration cards for all male employees of fighting age. Russia to deploy tactical nuclear weapons, US reacts cautiously to move “It makes you nervous and scared — no one wants to all of a sudden end up in a war with a rifle in hands,” he was quoted as saying. “The special operation is somewhat dragging on, so any surprises from the Russian authorities can be expected,” he added. Local media further reported that officials are roping in regional governments to recruit a certain number of volunteers. Some officials have even set up recruitment centres with the goal of signing men so that they can be sent into combat as professional soldiers. Moreover, the government has been advertising the need for new recruits on the social media accounts of state institutions and organisations, including libraries and high schools. One of the ads says that an enlisted soldier would get tax and loan repayment breaks, preferential university admission status for children, generous compensation for family if wounded or killed in action, and the status of a war veteran, which carries even more perks, reports AP. (With inputs from agencies) 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

Russia devising creative ways to lure more men to fight in Ukraine war

In an interview with Japanese newspaper&nbsp;Yomiuri Shimbun, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Kyiv cannot start a counter-offensive against Moscow until Western allies send more military support. He also said that the situation in the eastern part of the country is “not good” and that he has appealed to the United States and European countries to ramp up their supply of ammunition.&nbsp;

This comes as the eastern region of the war-torn country has witnessed some of the fiercest battles, including one for the key city of Bakhmut. However, Ukraine’s commander-in-chief Lt Gen Valerii Zaluzhnyi, on Friday said in a Facebook post, that the situation in the eastern city is “stabilising”.&nbsp;

While acknowledging the situation on Ukraine’s frontlines, Zaluzhnyi also said that it “is the toughest in the Bakhmut direction” and that it is due to the “tremendous efforts” of the Ukrainian forces “we are managing to stabilise the situation”. Reports also suggest that Ukraine has been witnessing mounting casualties in the region.

“We are waiting for ammunition to arrive from our partners,” said Zelensky to the Japanese newspaper.&nbsp;The Ukrainian president also spoke about how tanks provided by Germany and others are expected to be deployed on the battlefield from April, adding, “We need tanks for the “de-occupation of Ukraine.” When asked about the expected counter-offensive, Zelensky said, “We can’t start yet, we can't send our brave soldiers to the front line without tanks, artillery and long-range rockets.”&nbsp;

Reports of speculation about Ukraine’s counter-offensive, particularly about the time and place it might happen, have also left Kyiv’s defence ministry irate. Ukraine’s Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Malyar took to social media and urged people to stop discussing potential plans. She added, “Please stop asking experts questions about a counter-offensive on the air, please stop writing blogs and posts on this topic, please stop publicly discussing the military plans of our army,” reported BBC. 
 
During the interview, Zelensky also spoke about China's&nbsp;12-point peace plan which does not call for&nbsp;the withdrawal of Russian troops or the returning of all territory seized by Moscow and said, “Our sovereignty and territorial integrity comes first.”&nbsp; 
 
Zelensky also said that he did not receive a message from Beijing about&nbsp;a proposal to mediate peace between Russia and Ukraine and that even after&nbsp;"straight messages" through the diplomatic channels he wanted to speak with Chinese President&nbsp;Xi Jinping, he did not&nbsp;get a response. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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In an interview with Japanese newspaper Yomiuri Shimbun, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Kyiv cannot start a counter-offensive against Moscow until Western allies send more military support.

In an interview with Japanese newspaper Yomiuri Shimbun, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Kyiv cannot start a counter-offensive against Moscow until Western allies send more military support. He also said that the situation in the eastern part of the country is “not good” and that he has appealed to the United States and European countries to ramp up their supply of ammunition. This comes as the eastern region of the war-torn country has witnessed some of the fiercest battles, including one for the key city of Bakhmut. However, Ukraine’s commander-in-chief Lt Gen Valerii Zaluzhnyi, on Friday said in a Facebook post, that the situation in the eastern city is “stabilising”. While acknowledging the situation on Ukraine’s frontlines, Zaluzhnyi also said that it “is the toughest in the Bakhmut direction” and that it is due to the “tremendous efforts” of the Ukrainian forces “we are managing to stabilise the situation”. Reports also suggest that Ukraine has been witnessing mounting casualties in the region. “We are waiting for ammunition to arrive from our partners,” said Zelensky to the Japanese newspaper. The Ukrainian president also spoke about how tanks provided by Germany and others are expected to be deployed on the battlefield from April, adding, “We need tanks for the “de-occupation of Ukraine.” When asked about the expected counter-offensive, Zelensky said, “We can’t start yet, we can't send our brave soldiers to the front line without tanks, artillery and long-range rockets.” Reports of speculation about Ukraine’s counter-offensive, particularly about the time and place it might happen, have also left Kyiv’s defence ministry irate. Ukraine’s Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Malyar took to social media and urged people to stop discussing potential plans. She added, “Please stop asking experts questions about a counter-offensive on the air, please stop writing blogs and posts on this topic, please stop publicly discussing the military plans of our army,” reported BBC. During the interview, Zelensky also spoke about China's 12-point peace plan which does not call for the withdrawal of Russian troops or the returning of all territory seized by Moscow and said, “Our sovereignty and territorial integrity comes first.” Zelensky also said that he did not receive a message from Beijing about a proposal to mediate peace between Russia and Ukraine and that even after "straight messages" through the diplomatic channels he wanted to speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping, he did not get a response. (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 cannot launch counter-offensive without more weapons: Zelensky

After brokering truce between Saudi Arabia and Iran, China's President Xi Jinping landed in Moscow with a peace plan. Clearly, Xi Jinping is trying to play a central role in geopolitics. Will it be at the cost of the U.S.? Should India be worried? Listen in to Vikram Chandra.

This World | Will China broker peace? | Xi Jinping aims for a central role in global geopolitics

The initial upper hand gained by the Russian forces in Bakhmut, the Ukrainian city which Moscow has spent months trying to capture, seems to have fizzled out as Kyiv’s counteroffensive has been successful in stalling the advances made by Kremlin.

On Friday, Ukraine's commander in chief Lt Gen Valerii Zaluzhnyi said in a Facebook post that the situation in the eastern city is “stabilising”.

Acknowledging that the situation on Ukraine's frontlines "is the toughest in the Bakhmut direction”, Lt Gen Zaluzhnyi said that due to the “tremendous efforts” of the Ukrainian forces “we are managing to stabilise the situation".

He posted on the social media network after briefing the UK's Chief of Defence Staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, about the situation in Ukraine.

In recent months, the eastern city has become the centre of the biggest battle between Russia and Ukraine. For Moscow, Bakhmut is a key target in its plans to fully capture the industrialised eastern region of Donbas.

However, the long-drawn-out war yielded little results for the Russian offensive despite losing thousands of troops.

On Thursday, the commander of Ukraine’s ground forces, Oleksandr Syrsky, claimed that Russian forces were "exhausted" near Bakhmut, reports BBC.

<h2>Russia Ukraine War | Russian assault losing steam in Bakhmut: Kyiv</h2>

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He added that Russia is “losing significant strength", though it "has not given up hope of taking Bakhmut at all costs despite losses in manpower and equipment”.

"Very soon we will take advantage of this opportunity, like we did near Kyiv, Kharkiv, Balakliya and Kupiansk," he was quoted as saying, referring to successful Ukrainian counter-offensives last year.

However, despite Ukraine’s assertion that Moscow’s attack was flagging near Bakhmut, the Russian forces launched new assaults in the northern and southern stretches of the front in the Donbas region.

Heavy fighting was reported in the northern sector along a stretch of front running from Lyman to Kupiansk as well as in the south at Avdiivka on the outskirts of the Russian-held city of Donetsk.

(With inputs from agencies)

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.

 
 
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The initial upper hand gained by the Russian forces in Bakhmut, the Ukrainian city which Moscow has spent months trying to capture, seems to have fizzled out as Kyiv’s counteroffensive has been successful in stalling the advances made by Kremlin.

The initial upper hand gained by the Russian forces in Bakhmut, the Ukrainian city which Moscow has spent months trying to capture, seems to have fizzled out as Kyiv’s counteroffensive has been successful in stalling the advances made by Kremlin. On Friday, Ukraine's commander in chief Lt Gen Valerii Zaluzhnyi said in a Facebook post that the situation in the eastern city is “stabilising”. Acknowledging that the situation on Ukraine's frontlines "is the toughest in the Bakhmut direction”, Lt Gen Zaluzhnyi said that due to the “tremendous efforts” of the Ukrainian forces “we are managing to stabilise the situation". He posted on the social media network after briefing the UK's Chief of Defence Staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, about the situation in Ukraine. In recent months, the eastern city has become the centre of the biggest battle between Russia and Ukraine. For Moscow, Bakhmut is a key target in its plans to fully capture the industrialised eastern region of Donbas. However, the long-drawn-out war yielded little results for the Russian offensive despite losing thousands of troops. On Thursday, the commander of Ukraine’s ground forces, Oleksandr Syrsky, claimed that Russian forces were "exhausted" near Bakhmut, reports BBC. Russia Ukraine War | Russian assault losing steam in Bakhmut: Kyiv He added that Russia is “losing significant strength", though it "has not given up hope of taking Bakhmut at all costs despite losses in manpower and equipment”. "Very soon we will take advantage of this opportunity, like we did near Kyiv, Kharkiv, Balakliya and Kupiansk," he was quoted as saying, referring to successful Ukrainian counter-offensives last year. However, despite Ukraine’s assertion that Moscow’s attack was flagging near Bakhmut, the Russian forces launched new assaults in the northern and southern stretches of the front in the Donbas region. Heavy fighting was reported in the northern sector along a stretch of front running from Lyman to Kupiansk as well as in the south at Avdiivka on the outskirts of the Russian-held city of Donetsk. (With inputs from agencies) 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

Russian troops losing momentum in Bakhmut battle as Ukraine puts up strong defence

Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev has suggested that the troops may have to march onto cities as far as Kyiv or Lviv in Ukraine amid reports that Moscow was facing significant setbacks in the battle in the east.

Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev has suggested that the troops may have to march onto cities as far as Kyiv or Lviv in Ukraine amid reports that Moscow was facing significant setbacks in the battle in the east. Considered a strong ally of President Vladimir Putin, Medvedev's statement may have unwittingly given away the position Kremlin finds itself in currently. “Nothing can be ruled out here. If you need to get to Kyiv, then you need to go to Kyiv, if to Lviv, then you need to go to Lviv in order to destroy this infection,” Medvedev was quoted as saying by Russian news agency RIA Novosti. The battle for the eastern city of Bakhmut has significantly drained the resources of the Russian side, according to multiple media reports. Since the war began over a year ago, no place has witnessed a battle as fierce as Bakhmut. WATCH | Can Putin be arrested by the international criminal court? Medvedev, who served as Russia's president from 2008 to 2012, has emerged as one of the most hawkish leaders in recent times — routinely issuing blustery and hyperbolic statements. Earlier this week, he issued a hypersonic missile attack threat to the International Criminal Court (ICC) after the global organisation issued an arrest warrant against Putin. "I'm afraid, gentlemen, everyone is answerable to God and missiles. It's quite possible to imagine how a hypersonic Oniks fired from a Russian warship in the North Sea strikes the court building in the Hague," Medvedev wrote on Telegram. "It can't be shot down, I'm afraid. And the court is just a pathetic international organisation, not the people of a NATO country. So, they won't start a war. They'll be scared. And no one will be sorry." ALSO READ | Putin's top aide threatens 'hypersonic missile strike' on ICC after issuance of arrest warrant Putin's top ally previously said that a civil war will break out in the US in 2023 and that if Russia lost in the ongoing war, it could provoke the beginning of a 'nuclear war'. He also stated that any attempt to arrest Putin will be considered a declaration of war against Russia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

‘Need to go to Kyiv or Lviv’, says Putin’s top aide after Moscow suffers setbacks in war

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