<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidCZmpgVuDMSDU" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidCZmpgVuDMSDU" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Moscow could pull the trigger and suspend its participation in the Black Sea grain deal if sanctions and other obstacles to Russian exports remain the way they have been. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov issued the threat during his visit to Turkey, which had helped broker the agreement last year&nbsp;along with the United Nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If there is no further progress in removing barriers to the export of Russian fertilisers and grain, we will think about whether this deal is necessary," Lavrov was quoted as saying by AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Any negotiation needs to be based on taking into account Russian interests, Russian concerns. It should be about the principles on which the new world order will be based."</p>

<p>He added that Moscow rejected a unipolar world order led by 'one hegemon', referring to the USA which it alleges has been&nbsp;using Kyiv to push its agenda.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Erdogan announced deal extension last month</strong></h2>

<p>The development comes a couple of weeks after Turkish President&nbsp;Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced the extension of the deal. Hours before the agreement was set to expire on March 19, Erdogan in a televised address announced that the two parties sat across the table and agreed on the extension.</p>

<p>"Following talks with the two parties, we have assured the extension of the deal that was due to expire on March 19," said the Turkish president.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukrainian-troops-to-withdraw-from-bakhmut-world-news-wion-579614" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | Russia Ukraine War: Ukrainian troops to withdraw from Bakhmut? | World News | WION</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukrainian-troops-to-withdraw-from-bakhmut-world-news-wion-579614/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>It wasn't specified for how long the deal had been extended but Ankara earlier said it was in favour of a 120-day extension compared to Moscow's 60-day extension.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This deal is of vital importance for the global food supply. I thank Russia and Ukraine, who didn't spare their efforts for a new extension, as well as the United Nations secretary general."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia scrapping the deal</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, this is not the first instance when Russia has issued a threat for&nbsp;scrapping the deal. Last year in October, Moscow pulled out of the deal citing alleged drone attacks on Russian ships in the Crimea Bay as the reason.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In light of the terrorist act carried out by the Kyiv regime with the participation of British experts against ships of the Black Sea fleet and civilian vessels involved in the security of grain corridors, Russia suspends its participation in the implementation of the agreement on the export of agricultural products from Ukrainian ports," read the statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wheat-prices-climb-nearly-six-percent-after-russia-pulls-out-of-black-sea-deal-529975" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Wheat prices climb nearly six percent after Russia pulls out of Black Sea deal</strong></a></p>

<p>Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the supply of grain shipments&nbsp;through the region was halted which nearly triggered a global food crisis before Turkey and the UN brokered the deal.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Moscow could pull the trigger and suspend its participation in the Black Sea grain deal if sanctions and other obstacles to Russian exports remain the way they have been.

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

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

French President Emmanuel Macron and Chinese President Xi Jinping have said they are opposed to the use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine. Watch the video to know more.

Opposed to use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine, says French President Macron, Xi Jinping

French President Emmanuel Macron pressed Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday to urge Russia to seek peace in the war with Ukraine.

French President Emmanuel Macron presses Xi to urge Russian peace in Ukraine

After months of intensified battle for Eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated that Ukrainian troops could withdraw from that city, though he said that Ukrainian troops are still fighting, however there could be a risk of losing soldiers if Russians encircle the city.

Russia Ukraine War: Ukrainian troops to withdraw from Bakhmut? | World News | WION

Former US president Bill Clinton has expressed regret in an RTÉ interview about his role in persuading Ukraine to give up its nuclear weapons in 1994.

Bill Clinton regrets persuading Ukraine to give up nuclear weapons

This week mark's exactly a year since the Russian forces withdrew from Bucha. Everyone knew this war was going to be bloody. But what no one expected was the scale of the killings. As in any war, it is the common people who pay the ultimate price. Russia & Ukraine are two nations that are joined at the hip. With deep cultural and spiritual shared heritage. But this war has ripped people apart. A faith that has been a common shared heritage of the Russian & Ukrainian people is now under threat because of the deep political differences that have emerged in this war. Mohammed Saleh gets you this report.

Ukraine vows to avenge the victims of Bucha massacre by Russians | World at War

French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrive in Beijing on Wednesday for a three-day state visit in a bid to dissuade China from supporting Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

On China visit, Macron attempts diplomatic balancing act on Ukraine

Russian forces are entrenching their defences in Crimea or the latest satellite images show extended buildup of complex fortifications. These reinforcements extend to the Black Sea coastline. The obstacles have been placed along key roles that connect Crimea to mainland Ukraine.

Russia Ukraine War | Crimea's future: Fraught & unpredictable

Finland has become the 31st member of the NATO security alliance marking a major shift in the security landscape in north-eastern Europe what is the significance of Finland joining NATO and what kind of ramifications will it have on the ongoing war in Ukraine? We decode in this episode.

Finland joins NATO as 31st ally | World News | WION

<p>Russian government authorities released the video of the female suspect who has been detained in Sunday's blast case at a St Petersburg cafe in which a pro-war blogger Vladlen Tatarsky was killed.</p>

<p>In the released video, which has been recorded under duress, Darya Trepova can be heard admitting that she had handed the statuette that later blew up.</p>

<p>However, the 26-year-old suspect claimed that she was not aware that there would be an explosion and also did not admit to any further role.</p>

<p>Investigators stated that they had evidence which proves that Ukraine had organised the attack. However, Kyiv officials stated that this was the case of Russia infighting.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladlen-tatarskys-death-who-is-darya-trepova-what-happened-at-the-st-petersburg-cafe-all-we-know-578547">Vladlen Tatarsky's death: Who is Darya Trepova &amp; what happened at the St Petersburg cafe? All we know</a></p>

<p>More than 30 citizens suffered injuries in the bomb blast in Russia's second city. Tatarsky (real name Maxim Fomin), aged 40, was attending a patriotic meeting along with supporters in the cafe on Sunday afternoon. He was present there as a guest speaker.</p>

<p>Another video has been circulating on social media showing a young woman, wearing a brown coat, entering the cafe before blast with a cardboard box.</p>

<p>The images show that the box was placed on a table before the woman sat down inside the cafe. In another video, a statuette is seen being handed to Tatarsky.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Purpotedly, footage of St Petersburg blast perpetrator entering the cafe where Vladlen Tatarsky’s (Maksim Fomin’s) event was being held. The woman is identified by Russian media as Darya Trepova. Despite earlier reports about her arrest, she is believed to be still at large. <a href="https://t.co/iPmkIE6j1A">pic.twitter.com/iPmkIE6j1A</a></p>
— Leonid ХВ Ragozin (@leonidragozin) <a href="https://twitter.com/leonidragozin/status/1642804059949219845?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The Russian authorities released a brief excerpt of her interrogation in which Darya Trepova appeared under duress as she repeatedly sighed.</p>

<p>When she was asked by the interrogator if she knew why the authorities detained her, she said, "I would say for being at the scene of Vladlen Tatarsky's murder... I brought the statuette there which blew up."</p>

<p>When asked who gave the statuette to her, Trepova said, "Can I tell you later please?"</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Russia detained Darya Trepova who is a suspect in the unexplained incident that led to the death of military correspondent Vladlen Tatarsky yesterday in St. Petersburg. She allegedly delivered the figurine which contained explosives to the cafe where Vladlen was holding a meeting… <a href="https://t.co/MFZf0t8Sin">pic.twitter.com/MFZf0t8Sin</a></p>
— Dmitri (@wartranslated) <a href="https://twitter.com/wartranslated/status/1642831350351683586?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Anti-terrorism committee of Russia alleged that the Ukrainian special services organised the "terror attack with people co-operating with" opposition leader Alexei Navalny.</p>

<p>Later, the investigative committee further claimed that it had evidence that it was "planned and organised from Ukrainian territory".</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Gravitas: Vladlen Tatarsky | The story of the dead Russian blogger</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-vladlen-tatarsky-the-story-of-the-dead-russian-blogger-578716/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Once the owner of the cafe, Yevgeny Prigozhin, who now runs the Wagner mercenary group paid tribute to Tatarsky by filming himself from Bakhmut's town hall in a late-night video. In the video, he displayed a flag on which was written "in good memory of Vladlen Tatarsky", as he claimed that Russian forces have captured Bakhmut.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🔥Russian forces have captured Artyomovsk-<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bakhmut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bakhmut</a> in Donetsk Republic<br />
- Yevgeny Prigozhin, raising the 🇷🇺Russian flag over the city administration building &amp; paying tribute to journalist Vladlen Tatarsky, assassinated in St. Petersburg earlier by 🇬🇧UK-🇺🇲US-🇪🇺EU-armed forces. <a href="https://t.co/3HN3dR9uWX">pic.twitter.com/3HN3dR9uWX</a></p>
— Afshin Rattansi (@afshinrattansi) <a href="https://twitter.com/afshinrattansi/status/1642664300866072577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak on Sunday night alleged that the killing of the blogger was part of "an internal political fight" in Russia which he compared to spider feeding on each other inside the jar.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Russian government authorities released the video of the female suspect who has been detained in Sunday's blast case at a St Petersburg cafe in which a pro-war blogger Vladlen Tatarsky was killed.

Russian government authorities released the video of the female suspect who has been detained in Sunday's blast case at a St Petersburg cafe in which a pro-war blogger Vladlen Tatarsky was killed. In the released video, which has been recorded under duress, Darya Trepova can be heard admitting that she had handed the statuette that later blew up. However, the 26-year-old suspect claimed that she was not aware that there would be an explosion and also did not admit to any further role. Investigators stated that they had evidence which proves that Ukraine had organised the attack. However, Kyiv officials stated that this was the case of Russia infighting. ALSO READ | Vladlen Tatarsky's death: Who is Darya Trepova & what happened at the St Petersburg cafe? All we know More than 30 citizens suffered injuries in the bomb blast in Russia's second city. Tatarsky (real name Maxim Fomin), aged 40, was attending a patriotic meeting along with supporters in the cafe on Sunday afternoon. He was present there as a guest speaker. Another video has been circulating on social media showing a young woman, wearing a brown coat, entering the cafe before blast with a cardboard box. The images show that the box was placed on a table before the woman sat down inside the cafe. In another video, a statuette is seen being handed to Tatarsky. Purpotedly, footage of St Petersburg blast perpetrator entering the cafe where Vladlen Tatarsky’s (Maksim Fomin’s) event was being held. The woman is identified by Russian media as Darya Trepova. Despite earlier reports about her arrest, she is believed to be still at large. pic.twitter.com/iPmkIE6j1A — Leonid ХВ Ragozin (@leonidragozin) April 3, 2023 × The Russian authorities released a brief excerpt of her interrogation in which Darya Trepova appeared under duress as she repeatedly sighed. When she was asked by the interrogator if she knew why the authorities detained her, she said, "I would say for being at the scene of Vladlen Tatarsky's murder... I brought the statuette there which blew up." When asked who gave the statuette to her, Trepova said, "Can I tell you later please?" Russia detained Darya Trepova who is a suspect in the unexplained incident that led to the death of military correspondent Vladlen Tatarsky yesterday in St. Petersburg. She allegedly delivered the figurine which contained explosives to the cafe where Vladlen was holding a meeting… pic.twitter.com/MFZf0t8Sin — Dmitri (@wartranslated) April 3, 2023 × Anti-terrorism committee of Russia alleged that the Ukrainian special services organised the "terror attack with people co-operating with" opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Later, the investigative committee further claimed that it had evidence that it was "planned and organised from Ukrainian territory". WATCH | Gravitas: Vladlen Tatarsky | The story of the dead Russian blogger Once the owner of the cafe, Yevgeny Prigozhin, who now runs the Wagner mercenary group paid tribute to Tatarsky by filming himself from Bakhmut's town hall in a late-night video. In the video, he displayed a flag on which was written "in good memory of Vladlen Tatarsky", as he claimed that Russian forces have captured Bakhmut. 🔥Russian forces have captured Artyomovsk-#Bakhmut in Donetsk Republic - Yevgeny Prigozhin, raising the 🇷🇺Russian flag over the city administration building & paying tribute to journalist Vladlen Tatarsky, assassinated in St. Petersburg earlier by 🇬🇧UK-🇺🇲US-🇪🇺EU-armed forces. pic.twitter.com/3HN3dR9uWX — Afshin Rattansi (@afshinrattansi) April 2, 2023 × Meanwhile, Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak on Sunday night alleged that the killing of the blogger was part of "an internal political fight" in Russia which he compared to spider feeding on each other inside the jar. (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

Watch | Russia releases video of Darya Trepova detained for killing war-blogger

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?

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


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

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron is due to visit China on Wednesday (Apri 15). He appears to have a balancing act before him as he attempts to keep relations between the two countries smooth and at the same time, dissuade China from supporting Russian&nbsp;invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>"China is the only country in the world capable of having an immediate and radical impact on the conflict, in one direction or the other," an official from Macron's office told reporters Friday on condition of anonymity. The official was quoted by AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official reportedly added that Macron will look to stand firm towards Chinese President Xi Jinping all the while taking 'another path' from directly confrontational tone often heard from Washington.</p>

<p>The French leader's aims include preserving and rebalancing China's trade ties with Europe as well as safeguarding French interests in the Asia-Pacific region -- where Paris sees itself as a player thanks to its overseas territories and military deployments.</p>

<p>Macron's visit is likely to be representative of the European Union's stance towards the current political situation in the world. It was notable that European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen met Macron in Paris on Monday just days before Macron's visit to China.</p>

<p>The French leader's aims include preserving and rebalancing China's trade ties with Europe as well as safeguarding French interests in the Asia-Pacific region -- where Paris sees itself as a player thanks to its overseas territories and military deployments.</p>

<p>In a speech last week, von der Leyen cautioned Beijing against direct support for the war while ruling out the 27-member European Union "decoupling" from China.</p>

<p>The Europeans won't hold Xi back from arming Russia by "saying nicely what he shouldn't do," said Antoine Bondaz of the Paris-based Foundation for Strategic Research (FRS). Bondaz was quoted by AFP.</p>

<p>He predicted instead that the leaders would warn him off arms deliveries in public while dangling the threat of sanctions in their private talks.</p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


French President Emmanuel Macron is due to visit China on Wednesday (Apri 15). He appears to have a balancing act before him as he attempts to keep relations between the two countries smooth and at the same time, dissuade China from supporting Russian invasion of Ukraine.

French President Emmanuel Macron is due to visit China on Wednesday (Apri 15). He appears to have a balancing act before him as he attempts to keep relations between the two countries smooth and at the same time, dissuade China from supporting Russian invasion of Ukraine. "China is the only country in the world capable of having an immediate and radical impact on the conflict, in one direction or the other," an official from Macron's office told reporters Friday on condition of anonymity. The official was quoted by AFP. The official reportedly added that Macron will look to stand firm towards Chinese President Xi Jinping all the while taking 'another path' from directly confrontational tone often heard from Washington. The French leader's aims include preserving and rebalancing China's trade ties with Europe as well as safeguarding French interests in the Asia-Pacific region -- where Paris sees itself as a player thanks to its overseas territories and military deployments. Macron's visit is likely to be representative of the European Union's stance towards the current political situation in the world. It was notable that European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen met Macron in Paris on Monday just days before Macron's visit to China. The French leader's aims include preserving and rebalancing China's trade ties with Europe as well as safeguarding French interests in the Asia-Pacific region -- where Paris sees itself as a player thanks to its overseas territories and military deployments. In a speech last week, von der Leyen cautioned Beijing against direct support for the war while ruling out the 27-member European Union "decoupling" from China. The Europeans won't hold Xi back from arming Russia by "saying nicely what he shouldn't do," said Antoine Bondaz of the Paris-based Foundation for Strategic Research (FRS). Bondaz was quoted by AFP. He predicted instead that the leaders would warn him off arms deliveries in public while dangling the threat of sanctions in their private talks. 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 ×

As Macron heads to China, balancing act over Ukraine awaits him

Wagner group has claimed to capture the Ukrainian city, while Ukraine has denied to Wagner chief's claim. Earlier, Russian forces have had some success in the eastern frontline city of Bakhmut, Ukrainian military officials said, adding that their fighters were still holding on in a months-long battle in which both sides have suffered heavy casualties.

Battle of Bakhmut: Wagner group claims capture of the Ukrainian city

<p>The Ukrainian army on Sunday stated that they are still "holding" the embattled city of Bakhmut, which Wagner mercenary group, fighting on behalf of Russia, claimed to have captured "in a legal sense" by occupying the city's administration building.</p>

<p>"The enemy has not stopped its assault of Bakhmut. However, Ukrainian defenders are courageously holding the city as they repel numerous enemy attacks," said the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on its Facebook page.</p>

<p>On his Telegram channel, the Head of Wagner Yevgeny Prigozhin on Monday said, "In a legal sense, Bakhmut has been captured. The enemy is concentrated in western areas."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-civilians-killed-in-fresh-russian-shelling-a-year-after-grisly-discovery-in-bucha-578249">Six killed, eight injured in fresh Russian shelling, a year after discovery of grisly Bucha killings</a></p>

<p>In a video which accompanied the Telegram post, Prigozhin was seen holding a Russian flag which was inscribed to honour Russian military blogger Vladlen Tatarsky who lost his life in a bomb attack in Saint Petersburg's cafe on Sunday.</p>

<p>"The commanders of the units that took city hall and the whole centre will go and put up this flag. This is the Wagner private military company, these are the guys who took Bakhmut. In a legal sense, it's ours," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prigozhin had stated on March 20 (Monday) that the town's 70 per cent has been captured by Wagner units.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Sunday evening, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky appreciated the efforts made by the Ukrainian army to defend the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am grateful to our warriors who are fighting near Avdiivka, Maryinka, near Bakhmut... Especially Bakhmut! It's especially hot there today!" said Zelensky in his own post to Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia to place nuclear weapons near Belarus' border with NATO</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-to-place-nuclear-weapons-near-belarus-border-with-nato-578552/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Near Bakhmut, around 27 kilometres (17 miles) from &nbsp;Kostyantynivka, three men and three women were killed and eleven others were wounded in a "massive attack" of Russian missiles.</p>

<p>Zelensky stated that the affected zones are "just residential areas", where "ordinary civilians of an ordinary city of Donbas" were targeted.</p>

<p>The battle for Bakhmut is the longest one to have continued after Russia invaded Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


The Ukrainian army on Sunday stated that they are still "holding" the embattled city of Bakhmut, which Wagner mercenary group, fighting on behalf of Russia, claimed to have captured "in a legal sense" by occupying the city's administration building.

The Ukrainian army on Sunday stated that they are still "holding" the embattled city of Bakhmut, which Wagner mercenary group, fighting on behalf of Russia, claimed to have captured "in a legal sense" by occupying the city's administration building. "The enemy has not stopped its assault of Bakhmut. However, Ukrainian defenders are courageously holding the city as they repel numerous enemy attacks," said the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on its Facebook page. On his Telegram channel, the Head of Wagner Yevgeny Prigozhin on Monday said, "In a legal sense, Bakhmut has been captured. The enemy is concentrated in western areas." ALSO READ | Six killed, eight injured in fresh Russian shelling, a year after discovery of grisly Bucha killings In a video which accompanied the Telegram post, Prigozhin was seen holding a Russian flag which was inscribed to honour Russian military blogger Vladlen Tatarsky who lost his life in a bomb attack in Saint Petersburg's cafe on Sunday. "The commanders of the units that took city hall and the whole centre will go and put up this flag. This is the Wagner private military company, these are the guys who took Bakhmut. In a legal sense, it's ours," he said. Prigozhin had stated on March 20 (Monday) that the town's 70 per cent has been captured by Wagner units. On Sunday evening, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky appreciated the efforts made by the Ukrainian army to defend the city. "I am grateful to our warriors who are fighting near Avdiivka, Maryinka, near Bakhmut... Especially Bakhmut! It's especially hot there today!" said Zelensky in his own post to Telegram. WATCH | Russia to place nuclear weapons near Belarus' border with NATO Near Bakhmut, around 27 kilometres (17 miles) from Kostyantynivka, three men and three women were killed and eleven others were wounded in a "massive attack" of Russian missiles. Zelensky stated that the affected zones are "just residential areas", where "ordinary civilians of an ordinary city of Donbas" were targeted. The battle for Bakhmut is the longest one to have continued after Russia invaded Ukraine. (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 says still 'holding' Bakhmut after Wagner claims its 'legal capture'

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to officially visit Warsaw, Poland on Wednesday, announcing one of the few trips he is planning outside the nation which is battling the invasion of Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NATO member and Ukraine's neighbour Poland is a key ally in the efforts of the country to defend itself and has hosted many Ukrainians who were fleeing the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is an official visit but there will also be an element of a public nature," said Marcin Przydacz, the head of the international policy office while speaking to Polish radio station RMF FM.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He noted that Zelensky will also hold talks with Ukrainians living in Poland. During his Poland visit, Zelensky is also scheduled to meet his Polish counterpart, Andrzej Duda.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-still-holding-bakhmut-after-wagner-claims-its-legal-capture-578399">Ukraine says still 'holding' Bakhmut after Wagner claims its 'legal capture'</a></p>

<p>Marcin Przydacz said that Zelensky will meet Poles and Ukrainians at the Royal Castle in Warsaw and that Zelensky wishes to extend thanks to Poles for helping Ukrainians.</p>

<p>Zelensky will be speaking in the historic centre of the Polish capital, "in the context of what happened last year - how the Poles are helping Ukraine, refugees at the border, or welcoming them into their homes".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky will also hold discussions with Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki. Before Warsaw, Zelensky has already visited London, Brussels, Washington and Paris.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin creates funds for soldiers fighting in Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on Monday to create a special fund which supported the soldiers and their families, who are fighting in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The decree, which supports the "Defenders of the Fatherland", was published on the official government website.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The measures are "aimed at ensuring a decent life" for the soldiers who are involved in the Ukraine war and for their children and partners, as per the decree.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Popular Russian military blogger killed in a cafe blast</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-popular-russian-military-blogger-killed-in-a-cafe-blast-578463/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The support measure was announced by Putin at the Federal Assembly on February 21, a year after the Russian troops invaded Ukraine.</p>

<p>"Our duty is to support the families that have lost their loved ones and to help them raise their children and give them an education and a job," Putin stated.</p>

<p>The fund should "bring targeted, personalised assistance to the families of fallen fighters, as well as veterans of the special military operation," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to officially visit Warsaw, Poland on Wednesday, announcing one of the few trips he is planning outside the nation which is battling the invasion of Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to officially visit Warsaw, Poland on Wednesday, announcing one of the few trips he is planning outside the nation which is battling the invasion of Russia. NATO member and Ukraine's neighbour Poland is a key ally in the efforts of the country to defend itself and has hosted many Ukrainians who were fleeing the war. "This is an official visit but there will also be an element of a public nature," said Marcin Przydacz, the head of the international policy office while speaking to Polish radio station RMF FM. He noted that Zelensky will also hold talks with Ukrainians living in Poland. During his Poland visit, Zelensky is also scheduled to meet his Polish counterpart, Andrzej Duda. ALSO READ | Ukraine says still 'holding' Bakhmut after Wagner claims its 'legal capture' Marcin Przydacz said that Zelensky will meet Poles and Ukrainians at the Royal Castle in Warsaw and that Zelensky wishes to extend thanks to Poles for helping Ukrainians. Zelensky will be speaking in the historic centre of the Polish capital, "in the context of what happened last year - how the Poles are helping Ukraine, refugees at the border, or welcoming them into their homes". Zelensky will also hold discussions with Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki. Before Warsaw, Zelensky has already visited London, Brussels, Washington and Paris. Putin creates funds for soldiers fighting in Ukraine Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on Monday to create a special fund which supported the soldiers and their families, who are fighting in Ukraine. The decree, which supports the "Defenders of the Fatherland", was published on the official government website. The measures are "aimed at ensuring a decent life" for the soldiers who are involved in the Ukraine war and for their children and partners, as per the decree. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Popular Russian military blogger killed in a cafe blast The support measure was announced by Putin at the Federal Assembly on February 21, a year after the Russian troops invaded Ukraine. "Our duty is to support the families that have lost their loved ones and to help them raise their children and give them an education and a job," Putin stated. The fund should "bring targeted, personalised assistance to the families of fallen fighters, as well as veterans of the special military operation," 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

Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky to visit Poland on Wednesday

An explosion occurred inside a cafe in Saint Petersburg, Russia's second-largest city, killing well-known military blogger Andrew Strident supporter of the war in Ukraine, according to Russian officials. Andrew was facilitating a conversation at the time.

Russian Health Ministry: 25 people were injured in the blast

Russia-Ukraine War: Popular Russian military blogger killed in a cafe blast

Why are people in the United States obsessed with buying & owning guns even at the cost of their children's lives? One year since the Bucha massacre in the Ukraine war & Aboriginal people fight for equality & constitutional recognition in Australia.

World at War | China to surpass United States with the world's biggest satellite surveillance system

The war in Ukraine is raging for over 400 days now. The war time President Zelensky keeps saying that Russia won't stop at Ukraine. While that seems a remote possibility at the moment. But before February, 2022, an invasion of Ukraine too looked remote. Given the heightened tensions, NATO troops are bolstering its defences.

NATO conducts military exercises with an eye on Russia | WION Pulse

Russia's announcement that it will deploy its tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus has left the United Nations Security Council divided. While the western have expressed some serious concerns.

UNSC divided over Russia's Nuclear plan; top UN diplomat urges nuclear de-escalation | WION Pulse

<p>Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), the top security agency of the country, notified the famed Orthodox leader Metropolitan Pavel that he was suspected of justifying the aggression of Russia which is a criminal offence.</p>

<p>Pavel, the abbot of Ukraine’s most revered Orthodox site 'Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery', has resisted the order of the authorities to vacate the complex.</p>

<p>Earlier this week, he cursed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and threatened him with damnation.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-orders-100-rosomak-armoured-vehicles-from-poland-578017"> Ukraine orders 100 Rosomak armoured vehicles from Poland</a></p>

<p>During a court hearing held in Kyiv, the metropolitan rejected SBU's claim that he condoned the invasion of Russia. The accusations were described by Pavel as politically driven.</p>

<p>“I have never been on the side of aggression. This is my land,” said Pavel in the courthouse.</p>

<p>The Orthodox leader's residence was raided was SBU agents and prosecutors appealed to the court to put Pavel under house arrest till the investigation is over.</p>

<p>The court hearing was adjourned on Saturday until Monday after the metropolitan stated that the leader was not feeling well.</p>

<p>The monks living in the monastery are part of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church which is facing the accusation of having links with Russia.</p>

<p>Dozens of supporters of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church protested outside the monastery on Saturday, as they sang hymns in the rain. Another group of protesters also reached, accusing the monastery of sympathising with Russia.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Belarus says fighting in Ukraine should stop immediately</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/belarus-says-fighting-in-ukraine-should-stop-immediately-577948/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“They wash the brains of people with Russian support, and they are very dangerous for Ukraine,” said a 38-year-old protester, Senia Kravchuk, from Kyiv. “They sing songs in support of Russia, and that’s horrible, here, in the centre of Kyiv,” he added.</p>

<p>“Look at me. I’m in priest’s clothes, with a Ukrainian flag and a cross around my neck. Could you say that I’m pro-Russian? The priests are currently singing a Ukrainian hymn, and they’re being called pro-Russian. Can you believe it?” said another protester David.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), the top security agency of the country, notified the famed Orthodox leader Metropolitan Pavel that he was suspected of justifying the aggression of Russia which is a criminal offence.

Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), the top security agency of the country, notified the famed Orthodox leader Metropolitan Pavel that he was suspected of justifying the aggression of Russia which is a criminal offence. Pavel, the abbot of Ukraine’s most revered Orthodox site 'Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery', has resisted the order of the authorities to vacate the complex. Earlier this week, he cursed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and threatened him with damnation. ALSO READ | Ukraine orders 100 Rosomak armoured vehicles from Poland During a court hearing held in Kyiv, the metropolitan rejected SBU's claim that he condoned the invasion of Russia. The accusations were described by Pavel as politically driven. “I have never been on the side of aggression. This is my land,” said Pavel in the courthouse. The Orthodox leader's residence was raided was SBU agents and prosecutors appealed to the court to put Pavel under house arrest till the investigation is over. The court hearing was adjourned on Saturday until Monday after the metropolitan stated that the leader was not feeling well. The monks living in the monastery are part of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church which is facing the accusation of having links with Russia. Dozens of supporters of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church protested outside the monastery on Saturday, as they sang hymns in the rain. Another group of protesters also reached, accusing the monastery of sympathising with Russia. WATCH | Belarus says fighting in Ukraine should stop immediately “They wash the brains of people with Russian support, and they are very dangerous for Ukraine,” said a 38-year-old protester, Senia Kravchuk, from Kyiv. “They sing songs in support of Russia, and that’s horrible, here, in the centre of Kyiv,” he added. “Look at me. I’m in priest’s clothes, with a Ukrainian flag and a cross around my neck. Could you say that I’m pro-Russian? The priests are currently singing a Ukrainian hymn, and they’re being called pro-Russian. Can you believe it?” said another protester David. (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's SBU demands house arrest for famed Orthodox leader

Russian forces have had some success in the eastern frontline city of Bakhmut. But now Ukrainian forces are ready for a major spring offensive to retake territory. While Moscow has promised to provide more ammunition to its forces on the frontlines.

New phase of Russia-Ukraine War: Will there be a spring counteroffensive?

In a rare phone call, since the war in Ukraine broke out, US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken called his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov to immediately release a Wall Street Journal reporter who was detained last week as well as another imprisoned American.

A rare US-Russia phone call: US' Antony Blinken calls his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov

A top Ukrainian official criticised the 'symbolic blow' of Russia assuming the rotating presidency of the United Nations Security Council. On Saturday, Russia assumed the rotating presidency of the UN's top security committee.

Ukraine decries 'symbolic blow' as Russia assumes UNSC Presidency

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un's powerful sister accused Ukraine of calling for nuclear weapons. Kim Yo Jong backed her assertion on the basis of an online petition in Ukraine which was signed by almost 1,000 signatures so far.

North Korea accuses Kyiv of having nuclear ambitions

A raging war in Ukraine and Russia has assumed the UNSC presidency despite Ukraine's complaints. The United States said that it could not block Russia which is a permanent council member from assuming the Presidency.

Russia assumes UNSC Presidency; Kremlin says it plans to exercise its rights | World News | WION

Amid a raging war in Ukraine-Russia has assumed the UNSC Presidency. Despite Ukraine's complaints the United States said that it could not block Russia which is a permanent council member from assuming the presidency. According to TASS news agency, Moscow plans to hold several debates especially the ones on arms control.

Ukraine calls Russia's UNSC Presidency as 'the worst joke ever'

<p dir="ltr">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;</p>

<p dir="ltr">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;<br />
<br />
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".</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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.</p>

<p dir="ltr">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."<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></p>


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

<p>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;</p>

<p>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."</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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."</p>

<p>"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;</p>

<p>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;<br />
<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


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

ukraine

Ukraine, News on Ukraine, stories on Ukraine, articles on Ukraine, Ukraine stories at Wion, Ukraine news, Ukraine latest news