Hours after a telephonic conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended a formal invitation to Modi to Moscow.

Russia President Vladimir Putin invites PM Modi to Russia, invite hours after Modi-Zelensky talk

Highlighting the direct implications for US security, Austin's remarks underscore the urgent need for international support amid the ongoing conflict. Watch the video to know more.

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine's survival in danger, Pentagon chief warns

Russian President Vladimir Putin in his election victory speech, has warned that presence of Western troops in Ukraine could push the world to the brink of World War 3.

Putin: Russia-NATO conflict is just a step away World War III

Russian President Vladimir Putin says his country won’t relent in its invasion of Ukraine and has announced plans for a buffer zone to protect against long-range Ukrainian strikes and cross-border raids.

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin says Russia aims to set up buffer zone inside Ukraine

Russia's President Vladimir Putin, speaking at a programme which marked the 10th anniversary of Crimea's annexation, which has been deemed illegal by the Western nations, hailed its "return" to the country from Ukraine.

He said that Crimea had "returned to its home harbour" and added that the territory would move ahead with Russia "hand in hand".

Putin was speaking to thousands who had gathered at the Red Square in Moscow, a day after the Russian president claimed a landslide victory.

The governments of Western nations have condemned the voting, calling it a "sham".&nbsp;

Germany has said that Russia held a "pseudo-election", while the US said it was "obviously not free nor fair." Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Putin of "simulating" another election.

Speaking about the elections, UK Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron said the fact that no serious opposition candidates were permitted to contest the elections, "starkly underlines the depth of repression under President Putin's regime".

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelenskiy-says-russia-will-get-fair-response-for-odesa-strike-700589">Zelensky says Russia will get 'fair response' for Odesa strike that killed at least 20</a>

He further emphasised that conducting Russian elections in annexed Ukrainian territories was an "abhorrent violation of the UN charter and Ukrainian sovereignty".

Putin on Monday (Mar 18) said that the "return" of four Ukrainian regions to Russia was "much more grave and tragic" than Crimea.

"But in the end we did it. It is a big event in the history of our country," said Putin, while calling the occupied territories as being part of "New Russia". As Putin made these remarks, the crowds chanted "Russia, Russia".

<h2>Russia's new railway line to run from Rostov-on-Don to Crimea</h2>

Putin further announced that Russia will lay down a new railway line which will run from their city of Rostov-on-Don to Crimea through occupied Ukraine. This route is likely to serve as an alternative way to the current bridge which connects the peninsula to Russia's mainland.

"This is how together, hand in hand, we will move on. This is what - not in words, but in deeds - makes us really stronger," Putin said.

The bridge, which connects Russia and Crimea and was opened in 2018, has been attacked numerous times and forced to close twice before the war started in Ukraine.

Watch:&nbsp;Russian presidential polls day 2: Over 114 MN Russians eligible to vote

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Earlier in the rally, Putin said that a railway line from Rostov to the occupied Ukrainian cities of Mariupol, Berdyansk and Donetsk had been restored, and it will now be extended to Sevastopol, the Crimean port city.&nbsp;

Putin further thanked the citizens for showing their support in the recent elections, in which he clinched a landslide victory of 87 per cent votes and a fifth term.&nbsp;

Russia&nbsp;held elections for three days and in Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine it was held even longer to ensure residents participate in the process.&nbsp;

Putin has been the president of Russia since 2000 and is now set to remain in power till 2030, which will make him the longest-serving Kremlin leader after Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin.

Russia annexed the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea in 2014.&nbsp;

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)

Russia's President Vladimir Putin, speaking at a programme which marked the 10th anniversary of Crimea's annexation, which has been deemed illegal by the Western nations, hailed its "return" to the country from Ukraine.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin, speaking at a programme which marked the 10th anniversary of Crimea's annexation, which has been deemed illegal by the Western nations, hailed its "return" to the country from Ukraine. He said that Crimea had "returned to its home harbour" and added that the territory would move ahead with Russia "hand in hand". Putin was speaking to thousands who had gathered at the Red Square in Moscow, a day after the Russian president claimed a landslide victory. The governments of Western nations have condemned the voting, calling it a "sham". Germany has said that Russia held a "pseudo-election", while the US said it was "obviously not free nor fair." Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Putin of "simulating" another election. Speaking about the elections, UK Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron said the fact that no serious opposition candidates were permitted to contest the elections, "starkly underlines the depth of repression under President Putin's regime". Also Read: Zelensky says Russia will get 'fair response' for Odesa strike that killed at least 20 He further emphasised that conducting Russian elections in annexed Ukrainian territories was an "abhorrent violation of the UN charter and Ukrainian sovereignty". Putin on Monday (Mar 18) said that the "return" of four Ukrainian regions to Russia was "much more grave and tragic" than Crimea. "But in the end we did it. It is a big event in the history of our country," said Putin, while calling the occupied territories as being part of "New Russia". As Putin made these remarks, the crowds chanted "Russia, Russia". Russia's new railway line to run from Rostov-on-Don to Crimea Putin further announced that Russia will lay down a new railway line which will run from their city of Rostov-on-Don to Crimea through occupied Ukraine. This route is likely to serve as an alternative way to the current bridge which connects the peninsula to Russia's mainland. "This is how together, hand in hand, we will move on. This is what - not in words, but in deeds - makes us really stronger," Putin said. The bridge, which connects Russia and Crimea and was opened in 2018, has been attacked numerous times and forced to close twice before the war started in Ukraine. Watch: Russian presidential polls day 2: Over 114 MN Russians eligible to vote Earlier in the rally, Putin said that a railway line from Rostov to the occupied Ukrainian cities of Mariupol, Berdyansk and Donetsk had been restored, and it will now be extended to Sevastopol, the Crimean port city. Putin further thanked the citizens for showing their support in the recent elections, in which he clinched a landslide victory of 87 per cent votes and a fifth term. Russia held elections for three days and in Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine it was held even longer to ensure residents participate in the process. Putin has been the president of Russia since 2000 and is now set to remain in power till 2030, which will make him the longest-serving Kremlin leader after Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin. Russia annexed the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea in 2014. 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)

Putin calls Crimea part of 'New Russia', announces new rail line from Rostov-on-Don to Crimea

A day after securing a new six-year term, Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared at a concert on Red Square to mark the 10th anniversary of Russia's annexation of Crimea. Watch the video to know more.

Russia: Putin addresses huge crowd after election win

Russian President Vladimir Putin has secured a record fifth term after sweeping the presidential polls which had no serious contender, making victory evident for incumbent Putin. The Russian president bagged 88% of votes, according to early results.

Putin claims landslide victory in Russian Presidential polls, secures historic six year-term

Russia: Putin's landslide election victory, chilling warning to West

Gravitas: Putin's fiery speech spooks NATO; warns of World War 3 if Western troops enter Ukraine

Putin wins Russian presidential polls for record sixth-term

Ukraine has launched a barrage of drone and missile strikes against Russia, igniting two oil refineries. Watch on for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine ramps up attacks on Russian oil facilities

Head of Ukrainian President's Office Andriy Yermak dialled India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Friday (Mar&nbsp;15) and spoke about the preparations for the first Global Peace Summit in Switzerland at the level of state leaders.

He further noted the high level of support for the event.

Yermak also informed Doval about the current situation amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.

The top Ukrainian official also briefed Doval about Kyiv's success in confronting Moscow in the Black Sea and in its fight against Russian aviation.

"Andriy Yermak informed the interlocutor about the situation at the front, Ukraine's success in confronting Russia in the Black Sea and in the fight against Russian aviation, as well as about strengthening Ukraine's defence production. The Head of the President's Office emphasized that the aggressor continues to strike our country with missiles and drones, in particular, civilian infrastructure," the statement added.

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Had a phone call with National Security Advisor to the Prime Minister of 🇮🇳 Ajit Kumar Doval. 
 
Spoke about the preparations for the first Global Peace Summit in🇨🇭at the level of state leaders and noted the high level of support for the event. <a href="https://t.co/oUikRFDlHI">pic.twitter.com/oUikRFDlHI</a>
— Andriy Yermak (@AndriyYermak) <a href="https://twitter.com/AndriyYermak/status/1768671025359671482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"We also understand that in parallel with the ongoing fight waged by our defenders and all our people, we must do everything possible, use all diplomatic opportunities to elaborate a joint plan to achieve a lasting and just peace," Yermak said.

According to a Ukrainian statement, Yermak also thanked Doval for his deputy's participation in the fourth meeting of national security advisors.

"Andriy Yermak thanked Ajit Kumar Doval for his deputy's participation in the fourth meeting of national security advisors and foreign policy advisors to the heads of state on the implementation of the Peace Formula, which took place in Davos in January," the statement said.

<h2>Russian missile strike in Odesa kills 20, Zelensky says Moscow will get 'fair response'</h2>

Meanwhile, a Russian ballistic missile strike devastated a residential area in the Black Sea port city of Odesa, Ukraine on Friday, resulting in the deaths of at least 20 people.

President Volodymyr Zelensky condemning the strike vowed that Ukrainian forces would deliver a fair response to Russia for the assault on a city that has faced near-daily attacks by Russian drones or missiles throughout the month.

Ukrainian regional governor Oleh Kiper reported that two Iskander-M missiles launched from the Russian-occupied Crimea peninsula caused significant damage to civilian infrastructure, gas pipelines, and electricity supply lines in Odesa. Some residents experienced disruptions in gas and electricity services due to the strikes.

(With inputs from agencies)

Head of Ukrainian President's Office Andriy Yermak dialled India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Friday (Mar 15) and spoke about the preparations for the first Global Peace Summit in Switzerland at the level of state leaders.

Head of Ukrainian President's Office Andriy Yermak dialled India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Friday (Mar 15) and spoke about the preparations for the first Global Peace Summit in Switzerland at the level of state leaders. He further noted the high level of support for the event. Yermak also informed Doval about the current situation amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. The top Ukrainian official also briefed Doval about Kyiv's success in confronting Moscow in the Black Sea and in its fight against Russian aviation. "Andriy Yermak informed the interlocutor about the situation at the front, Ukraine's success in confronting Russia in the Black Sea and in the fight against Russian aviation, as well as about strengthening Ukraine's defence production. The Head of the President's Office emphasized that the aggressor continues to strike our country with missiles and drones, in particular, civilian infrastructure," the statement added. Had a phone call with National Security Advisor to the Prime Minister of 🇮🇳 Ajit Kumar Doval. Spoke about the preparations for the first Global Peace Summit in🇨🇭at the level of state leaders and noted the high level of support for the event. pic.twitter.com/oUikRFDlHI — Andriy Yermak (@AndriyYermak) March 15, 2024 × "We also understand that in parallel with the ongoing fight waged by our defenders and all our people, we must do everything possible, use all diplomatic opportunities to elaborate a joint plan to achieve a lasting and just peace," Yermak said. According to a Ukrainian statement, Yermak also thanked Doval for his deputy's participation in the fourth meeting of national security advisors. "Andriy Yermak thanked Ajit Kumar Doval for his deputy's participation in the fourth meeting of national security advisors and foreign policy advisors to the heads of state on the implementation of the Peace Formula, which took place in Davos in January," the statement said. Russian missile strike in Odesa kills 20, Zelensky says Moscow will get 'fair response' Meanwhile, a Russian ballistic missile strike devastated a residential area in the Black Sea port city of Odesa, Ukraine on Friday, resulting in the deaths of at least 20 people. President Volodymyr Zelensky condemning the strike vowed that Ukrainian forces would deliver a fair response to Russia for the assault on a city that has faced near-daily attacks by Russian drones or missiles throughout the month. Ukrainian regional governor Oleh Kiper reported that two Iskander-M missiles launched from the Russian-occupied Crimea peninsula caused significant damage to civilian infrastructure, gas pipelines, and electricity supply lines in Odesa. Some residents experienced disruptions in gas and electricity services due to the strikes. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine's top official dials India's NSA Ajit Doval ahead of Global Peace Summit

President Vladimir Putin won a record post-Soviet landslide in Russia's election on Sunday, cementing his already tight grip on power in a victory he said showed Moscow had been right to stand up to the West and send its troops into Ukraine.

Putin wins another term as Russian President in a landslide victory

Vyacheslav Gladkov, the Governor of Russia's Belgorod region, declared the closure of schools and shopping centres on Saturday (March 16) due to safety concerns.

According to a video posted on the governor's Telegram channel, shopping centres will remain closed on Sunday and Monday, while classes will be suspended on Monday and Tuesday. These closures will impact educational institutions in Belgorod city, its environs, and border areas with Ukraine.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-killed-in-ukrainian-shelling-in-russias-belgorod-region-as-russian-presidential-vote-begins-700476">14 killed in Russian missile strike on Odesha, 1 dead in Ukraine shelling in Belgorod as Russian polls start</a>

Earlier on Saturday, Governor Gladkov reported two fatalities and three injuries resulting from a Ukrainian missile strike on the Russian border city of Belgorod. This occurred while Russian citizens are participating in a three-day presidential election, ongoing until Sunday (March 17).

In a Telegram statement, Governor Gladkov specified that the city was targeted by missiles launched from a Vampire rocket launcher system. He noted damage to vehicles and buildings both within Belgorod city and in neighbouring villages.

Earlier on Thursday (March 14) a man lost his life when the car he was driving was directly hit by shelling. Four others sustained injuries. Belgorod's city Mayor Valentin Demidov attributed the shelling to Ukrainian forces. The attack also resulted in damage to five houses and 25 vehicles.

Another shelling incident on the same day claimed the life of a woman who was driving her car, injuring three others, according to Demidov. He personally visited the attack sites to assess the damage and engage with residents.

Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of attempting to sabotage Russia's presidential election by shelling Russian territory and deploying 2,500 armed soldiers to breach its borders.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-russia-enters-election-mode-with-new-territories-from-ukraine-top-points-700217" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-russia-enters-election-mode-with-new-territories-from-ukraine-top-points-700217&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiK8fiRpfaEAxV1yDgGHbw6BxMQFnoECAYQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3KZwd27cpWZqZPHImV2vtL&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-russia-enters-election-mode-with-new-territories-from-ukraine-top-points-700217" target="_blank">Putin's&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;enters election mode with 'new' territories from Ukraine</a>

He vowed to retaliate against Kyiv for these actions, stating, "These hostile actions will not go unanswered." 
 
Putin made these remarks during a meeting of Russia's Security Council, which comprises of military and intelligence leaders, along with influential civilian officials.

Putin said there had been four attacks on the Belgorod region and one on the Kursk region by armed Ukrainian proxies numbering about 2,500. He said they had 35 tanks and 40 armoured vehicles and that 60 per cent of the soldiers were killed.

(With inputs from agencies)

Vyacheslav Gladkov, the Governor of Russia's Belgorod region, declared the closure of schools and shopping centres on Saturday (March 16) due to safety concerns.

Vyacheslav Gladkov, the Governor of Russia's Belgorod region, declared the closure of schools and shopping centres on Saturday (March 16) due to safety concerns. According to a video posted on the governor's Telegram channel, shopping centres will remain closed on Sunday and Monday, while classes will be suspended on Monday and Tuesday. These closures will impact educational institutions in Belgorod city, its environs, and border areas with Ukraine. Also read: 14 killed in Russian missile strike on Odesha, 1 dead in Ukraine shelling in Belgorod as Russian polls start Earlier on Saturday, Governor Gladkov reported two fatalities and three injuries resulting from a Ukrainian missile strike on the Russian border city of Belgorod. This occurred while Russian citizens are participating in a three-day presidential election, ongoing until Sunday (March 17). In a Telegram statement, Governor Gladkov specified that the city was targeted by missiles launched from a Vampire rocket launcher system. He noted damage to vehicles and buildings both within Belgorod city and in neighbouring villages. Earlier on Thursday (March 14) a man lost his life when the car he was driving was directly hit by shelling. Four others sustained injuries. Belgorod's city Mayor Valentin Demidov attributed the shelling to Ukrainian forces. The attack also resulted in damage to five houses and 25 vehicles. Another shelling incident on the same day claimed the life of a woman who was driving her car, injuring three others, according to Demidov. He personally visited the attack sites to assess the damage and engage with residents. Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of attempting to sabotage Russia's presidential election by shelling Russian territory and deploying 2,500 armed soldiers to breach its borders. Also read: Putin's Russia enters election mode with 'new' territories from Ukraine He vowed to retaliate against Kyiv for these actions, stating, "These hostile actions will not go unanswered." Putin made these remarks during a meeting of Russia's Security Council, which comprises of military and intelligence leaders, along with influential civilian officials. Putin said there had been four attacks on the Belgorod region and one on the Kursk region by armed Ukrainian proxies numbering about 2,500. He said they had 35 tanks and 40 armoured vehicles and that 60 per cent of the soldiers were killed. (With inputs from agencies)

Governor of Russia’s Belgorod shuts schools, shopping centres for safety reasons

European defence firms are turning out to be the big gainers, as Europe rearms itself against possible Russian aggression. German defence giant Rheinmetall expects both sales and profit margins to keep growing this year. The world’s largest maker of artillery ammunition expects 2024 sales to reach $10.89 billion.

Shares of European defence firms rise dramatically in 2023

Russia accused Ukraine on Saturday (local time) of using "terrorist activities" to try to disrupt its presidential election and former President Dmitry Medvedev decried as "traitors" the scattered protesters who have tried to set fire to voting booths and pour dye into ballot boxes.

Russian presidential polls day 3: Russia slams Kyiv for efforts to disrupt poll

Russia accused Ukraine on Saturday (local time) of using "terrorist activities" to try to disrupt its presidential election and former President Dmitry Medvedev decried as "traitors" the scattered protesters who have tried to set fire to voting booths and pour dye into ballot boxes. Watch to know more!

Russia Elections: Moscow accuses Kyiv of terror activities to disrupt presidential elections

World at War | Russia is ready for Nuclear conflict in the Ukraine War Have Houthis managed to get Hypersonic missiles? Sudanese army recaptures the headquarters of the State Broadcaster in Omdurman Mohammed Saleh gets you an in-depth analysis of the world's biggest warzones of the week in #WorldAtWar

Russia is ready for Nuclear conflict in the Ukraine War

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz held a telephone conversation with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on 14 March, during which the parties discussed the "political, military and humanitarian situation in Ukraine".

Europe's military boost in Ukraine

To aid Ukraine, which completed its second anniversary of war with Russia last month, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz&nbsp;revealed plans for a new coalition aimed at bolstering the country's defences. The announcement came during a press conference in Berlin, where Chancellor Scholz stated, "We are creating a new coalition of long-range artillery forces."

Scholz was present alongside French President Emmanuel Macron and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. This move signifies a commitment to more robust military cooperation among the Western allies in supporting Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-escalates-fight-against-dengue-fever-outbreak-with-bacteria-infected-mosquitoes-700573">Brazil escalates fight against dengue fever outbreak with bacteria-infected mosquitoes</a>

Scholz, while highlighting the coalition's efforts to increasing military assistance to Ukraine, stated, "Among other things, we will now purchase even more weapons for Ukraine, on the entire world market."

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Notably, the funding for these acquisitions will come from interest accrued from frozen Russian assets, as per the German PM. This initiative has underscored a unified stance among western allies in providing tangible support to Ukraine's security efforts amidst ongoing tensions with Russia even as the US on March 12 also announced "additional security assistance as an extraordinary measure to address some of Ukraine's most pressing security and defense needs."

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/istanbul-airports-solution-to-pre-flight-anxiety-700572">Istanbul Airport's solution to pre-flight anxiety</a>

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US Department of Defence in a statement said, "This announcement is the Biden Administration's fifty-fifth tranche of equipment to be provided from DoD inventories for Ukraine since August 2021. This Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) package is valued at up to $300 million and includes capabilities to support Ukraine's immediate air defense, artillery, and anti-tank requirements."

This comes as Russian President Vladimir Putin on March 13 cautioned the West, stating that Moscow was technically ready for nuclear war. Putin continued by saying that any deployment of US troops to Ukraine would result in an escalation of tensions.

Earlier, European Union member states also unanimously agreed a 5 billion euros ($5.48bn) allocation for military assistance to Ukraine. This decision provides Kyiv with crucial support amid its challenges in countering Russian&nbsp;invasion.

(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.

To aid Ukraine, which completed its second anniversary of war with Russia last month, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz revealed plans for a new coalition aimed at bolstering the country's defences.

To aid Ukraine, which completed its second anniversary of war with Russia last month, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz revealed plans for a new coalition aimed at bolstering the country's defences. The announcement came during a press conference in Berlin, where Chancellor Scholz stated, "We are creating a new coalition of long-range artillery forces." Scholz was present alongside French President Emmanuel Macron and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. This move signifies a commitment to more robust military cooperation among the Western allies in supporting Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression. Also Read | Brazil escalates fight against dengue fever outbreak with bacteria-infected mosquitoes Scholz, while highlighting the coalition's efforts to increasing military assistance to Ukraine, stated, "Among other things, we will now purchase even more weapons for Ukraine, on the entire world market." Also Read | 'Highly inappropriate': Kishida condemns party's dancers event. Here's why Notably, the funding for these acquisitions will come from interest accrued from frozen Russian assets, as per the German PM. This initiative has underscored a unified stance among western allies in providing tangible support to Ukraine's security efforts amidst ongoing tensions with Russia even as the US on March 12 also announced "additional security assistance as an extraordinary measure to address some of Ukraine's most pressing security and defense needs." Watch | Istanbul Airport's solution to pre-flight anxiety × US Department of Defence in a statement said, "This announcement is the Biden Administration's fifty-fifth tranche of equipment to be provided from DoD inventories for Ukraine since August 2021. This Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) package is valued at up to $300 million and includes capabilities to support Ukraine's immediate air defense, artillery, and anti-tank requirements." This comes as Russian President Vladimir Putin on March 13 cautioned the West, stating that Moscow was technically ready for nuclear war. Putin continued by saying that any deployment of US troops to Ukraine would result in an escalation of tensions. Earlier, European Union member states also unanimously agreed a 5 billion euros ($5.48bn) allocation for military assistance to Ukraine. This decision provides Kyiv with crucial support amid its challenges in countering Russian invasion. (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.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announces new coalition of long-range artillery forces to aid Ukraine

The Group of Seven (G7) nations on Friday (March 15) issued a statement warning Iran against&nbsp;transfering ballistic missiles to Russia for its offensive against Ukraine or else face new sanctions.

This&nbsp;could include a ban on Iran Air flights to Europe, said a senior US official on Friday (March 15).

"Were Iran to proceed with providing ballistic missiles or related technology to Russia, we are prepared to respond swiftly and in a coordinated manner including with new and significant measures against Iran," the G7 leaders said in a statement.

"We are extremely concerned about reports that Iran is considering transferring ballistic missiles and related technology," the statement further read.

"We call on Iran not to do so, as it would add to regional destabilization and represent a substantive material escalation in its support for Russia's war in Ukraine," the G7 said, adding that Tehran had already provided Russia with drones that it had used against civilians.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-killed-in-ukrainian-shelling-in-russias-belgorod-region-as-russian-presidential-vote-begins-700476">14 killed in Russian missile strike on Odesha, 1 dead in Ukraine shelling</a>

<h2>US issues warning</h2>

The United States also warned the Islamic Republic not to proceed with the transfer of missiles.

As per the news agency Reuters, the US&nbsp;official said that one of the options under consideration "would have the effect of ending flights from Iran Air, its flagship state-owned carrier, into Europe - the point being, this is not business as usual."&nbsp;

The official, as per news agency Reuters, said that while the United States could not confirm reports of the transfer of missiles from Iran to Russia, it was clear that Tehran did make efforts to advance negotiations with Moscow on the ballistic projectiles.

The restrictions imposed by the United Nations Security Council on Iran's export of some missiles, drones and other technologies expired in the month of October last year.

However, the EU and US retained sanctions on Iran's ballistic missile program amid concerns over exports of weapons to its proxies in the Middle East and to Russia.

The United States has claimed that Iran has already provided Russia with drones, guided aerial bombs and artillery ammunition that has been used by Moscow in its offensive against Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Group of Seven (G7) nations on Friday (March 15) issued a statement warning Iran against transfering ballistic missiles to Russia for its offensive against Ukraine or else face new sanctions.

The Group of Seven (G7) nations on Friday (March 15) issued a statement warning Iran against transfering ballistic missiles to Russia for its offensive against Ukraine or else face new sanctions. This could include a ban on Iran Air flights to Europe, said a senior US official on Friday (March 15). "Were Iran to proceed with providing ballistic missiles or related technology to Russia, we are prepared to respond swiftly and in a coordinated manner including with new and significant measures against Iran," the G7 leaders said in a statement. "We are extremely concerned about reports that Iran is considering transferring ballistic missiles and related technology," the statement further read. "We call on Iran not to do so, as it would add to regional destabilization and represent a substantive material escalation in its support for Russia's war in Ukraine," the G7 said, adding that Tehran had already provided Russia with drones that it had used against civilians. Also read: 14 killed in Russian missile strike on Odesha, 1 dead in Ukraine shelling US issues warning The United States also warned the Islamic Republic not to proceed with the transfer of missiles. As per the news agency Reuters, the US official said that one of the options under consideration "would have the effect of ending flights from Iran Air, its flagship state-owned carrier, into Europe - the point being, this is not business as usual." The official, as per news agency Reuters, said that while the United States could not confirm reports of the transfer of missiles from Iran to Russia, it was clear that Tehran did make efforts to advance negotiations with Moscow on the ballistic projectiles. The restrictions imposed by the United Nations Security Council on Iran's export of some missiles, drones and other technologies expired in the month of October last year. However, the EU and US retained sanctions on Iran's ballistic missile program amid concerns over exports of weapons to its proxies in the Middle East and to Russia. The United States has claimed that Iran has already provided Russia with drones, guided aerial bombs and artillery ammunition that has been used by Moscow in its offensive against Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

US, G7 warn Iran not to give ballistic missiles to Russia for Ukraine war, threaten new sanctions

Days before Russia's presidential election, an armed assault claimed by Kremlin foes stationed in Ukraine rattled a border region. On Tuesday, Ukrainian long-range drones crashed into two oil facilities deep within Russia, according to officials.

Russian elections 2024: Russia holds election amid war with Ukraine

The Ukrainian Air Force has carried out several strikes in Russian positions Ukrainian attacks have particularly increased in Russia's border region of Belgorod and as per the regional governor two people were killed and 19 others are said to been injured on Thursday after Ukrainian attacks. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukrainian strike on Russia's Belgorod region leaves 2 dead, 19 Injured

Europe’s credibility will be destroyed if Russia is allowed to win in Ukraine, Emmanuel Macron has warned, as he defended his refusal to rule out sending troops to the country...

Russia-Ukraine war: French President Macron says Europe must be ready if Russia wins

Polls opened in Russia's Far East for the first of the 3 days of voting in a presidential election set to prolong President Vladimir Putin's rule by six more years. Voting is also taking place in the Russian-controlled parts of Ukraine who are the candidates contesting against Putin and who all were barred from running all this in our next report. Watch to know more!

Russia Elections 2024: Occupied Ukrainian territories encouraged to vote in Russian election

Russia-Ukraine war: If Ukraine falls, Europe's security will be at risk warns Macron

Russia-Ukraine war: Macron says Europe must be ready if Russia wins

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that his troops are ready to use nuclear weapon should the existence of Russia come under threat. Speaking to the Russian State Television, Putin said Russia's nuclear triad is more modern than the American triad, adding that Russian troops are constantly in the state of combat readiness.

Gravitas | Ukraine War: Putin says Russia is ready to use nuclear weapons

Ukraine launched a sweeping drone attack on Russian regions on Wednesday, causing a fire at Rosneft's biggest oil refinery in what President Vladimir Putin said was an attempt to disrupt Russia's presidential election.

Russia-Ukraine War | Ukrainian drones strike Rosneft's biggest refinery, says Russia

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