With the Russia-Ukraine conflict deepening with every hour, the fight seems to have reached the UN Security Council. &nbsp;

On Friday, the forum, UNSC, will discuss what Russia claims are "the military biological activities of the US on the territory of Ukraine." &nbsp;

The meeting has been scheduled for 10 am EST, confirmed diplomats, while speaking on condition of anonymity before an official announcement. &nbsp;

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In a tweet on Thursday from its first deputy UN ambassador Dmitry Polyansky, Russia had requested the meeting. &nbsp;

This comes as the accusation, which was made by Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, has been rejected by the US officials. &nbsp;

As per the accusation, Ukraine was running chemical and biological labs with US support. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/laughable-us-denies-russian-accusations-of-biowarfare-labs-in-ukraine-460758" hreflang="en">'Laughable': US denies Russian accusations of biowarfare labs in Ukraine</a>

White House press secretary Jen Psaki called Russia's claim "preposterous." On Wednesday, Psaki warned that Russia may use chemical or biological weapons against Ukraine, the neighbour&nbsp;it has invaded. &nbsp;

"This is all an obvious ploy by Russia to try to justify its further premeditated, unprovoked, and unjustified attack on Ukraine," Psaki tweeted. &nbsp;

But another Russian deputy UN ambassador, Dmitry Chumakov, repeated the accusation on Wednesday, urging Western media to cover "the news about secret biological laboratories in Ukraine." &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With the Russia-Ukraine conflict deepening with every hour, the fight seems to have reached the UN Security Council. On Friday, the forum, UNSC, will discuss what Russia claims are "the military biological activities of the US on the territory of Ukraine.

With the Russia-Ukraine conflict deepening with every hour, the fight seems to have reached the UN Security Council. On Friday, the forum, UNSC, will discuss what Russia claims are "the military biological activities of the US on the territory of Ukraine." The meeting has been scheduled for 10 am EST, confirmed diplomats, while speaking on condition of anonymity before an official announcement. Also Read: In a heart-warming gesture, Polish citizens leave essentials at border for Ukrainian refugees In a tweet on Thursday from its first deputy UN ambassador Dmitry Polyansky, Russia had requested the meeting. This comes as the accusation, which was made by Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, has been rejected by the US officials. As per the accusation, Ukraine was running chemical and biological labs with US support. Also Read | 'Laughable': US denies Russian accusations of biowarfare labs in Ukraine White House press secretary Jen Psaki called Russia's claim "preposterous." On Wednesday, Psaki warned that Russia may use chemical or biological weapons against Ukraine, the neighbour it has invaded. "This is all an obvious ploy by Russia to try to justify its further premeditated, unprovoked, and unjustified attack on Ukraine," Psaki tweeted. But another Russian deputy UN ambassador, Dmitry Chumakov, repeated the accusation on Wednesday, urging Western media to cover "the news about secret biological laboratories in Ukraine." (With inputs from agencies)

UN Security Council to discuss Russian claim of US-backed biowarfare labs in Ukraine

The issue of bioweapons being used in the war in Ukraine has now reached the United nations of Security Council. An emergency meeting of the UNSC has been called today. Russia alleged that the United States is funding research to create bioweapons in Ukraine. Both the United States and Ukraine have denied these allegations by saying that this is a sign that Moscow could soon use the weapons itself.

UN Security Council meet on biological weapons at Moscow's request | Latest World News | WION

Now Iran has said that the United States has made extra demands during negotiations on the nuclear deal. The United States has accused Iran of trying to complicate efforts to restore the deal, this comes after concerns of fresh deals due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Now Iran's foreign minister held a phone call with the EU foreign policy chief and said that there is no rational justification for some of the new demands made by the United States and it contradicts the country's position on reaching an agreement swiftly.

US makes 'new demands' in nuclear talks, accuses Iran of trying to complicate efforts | World News

An emergency meeting of the UNSC has been called today. Russia alleged that the United States is funding research to create bioweapons in Ukraine. Both the United States and Ukraine have denied these allegations by saying that this is a sign that Moscow could soon use the weapons itself.

Russia calls emergency UNSC meeting on biological weapons amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, United Nations Security Council held an emergency meeting on the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Ukraine.

UNSC urges safe aid delivery to Ukraine during an emergency meeting on humanitarian crisis

UNSC holds emergency meeting on humanitarian crisis unfolding Ukraine amid Russian invasion

US and its allies are questioning UNSC credibility. They have released a joint statement regarding North Korea's missile launch. This is the 17th time that China has opposed US and allies proposal.

US and allies question UNSC credibility, shows concern over North Korea missile launches

UNSC held an emergency meeting after Russia seized control of nuclear plant. The West allies criticized Russia for shelling and seizure of Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant.

West allies criticised Russia over shelling, seizing of 2nd nuclear plant in Ukraine

After Russia captured Europe's largest Nuclear plant, the United Nations Security Council held an emergency meeting over the issue. Ukraine said Russia to stop gaslighting on power plant.

UNSC holds emergency meeting: Ukraine says stop gaslighting on power plant to Russia

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. 
&nbsp;

As Russia continued its bombing campaign on Ukrainian cities, the UK said evicting Russia from UN Security Council(UNSC) was among "all options" on the table.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman said the UK government is open to removing Russia as one of the permanent members of the UNSC.

"I think it's something we want to discuss with the UN obviously," the spokesperson said, adding:&nbsp;"What is right to say is that we want to see Russia isolated diplomatically, and we will consider all options to achieve that."

Reports said Russia has massed armoured vehicles outside capital Kyiv and has been hitting the city with artillery fire.

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Amid the large scale bombing, Russian foreign minister Lavrov said: "Western countries must not build military facilities in the territory of the former Soviet Union states that are not part of the alliance and should not use their infrastructure for any military action."&nbsp;

In a document submitted to the NATO and United States earlier, Russia had repeated its claim that NATO should not induct former Soviet countries into the European military alliance referring to Ukraine.

Watch:&nbsp;Afghanistan and now Ukraine...Is US about to lose its hegemony?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-and-now-ukraineis-us-about-to-lose-its-hegemony-457841/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Ukraine still has Soviet technologies and the means of delivery of such weapons. We cannot fail to respond to this real danger," Lavrov said.&nbsp;

Earlier, UK PM Boris Johnson said that the country has a tradition of "welcoming" people from war zone.&nbsp;

"Individual Ukrainians can be sponsored also by NGOs and private bodies," he said.&nbsp;

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"Vladimir Putin has also underestimated the unity and resolve of the West and of the rest of the world," while adding,"We will keep up the economic pressure... it is plainly already having a dramatic effect. We are ready to intensify and to keep going for as long as it takes," Johnson said.

Ukraine President Zelensky while addressing EU officials through a video link had hit out at&nbsp;Putin saying children were being attacked even as the Russian president called it a "military operation".

(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.

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. As Russia continued its bombing campaign on Ukrainian cities, the UK said evicting Russia from UN Security Council(UNSC) was among "all options" on the table. Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman said the UK government is open to removing Russia as one of the permanent members of the UNSC. "I think it's something we want to discuss with the UN obviously," the spokesperson said, adding: "What is right to say is that we want to see Russia isolated diplomatically, and we will consider all options to achieve that." Reports said Russia has massed armoured vehicles outside capital Kyiv and has been hitting the city with artillery fire. Also Read in Pics: How Putin built Russia's Army as a potent force Amid the large scale bombing, Russian foreign minister Lavrov said: "Western countries must not build military facilities in the territory of the former Soviet Union states that are not part of the alliance and should not use their infrastructure for any military action." In a document submitted to the NATO and United States earlier, Russia had repeated its claim that NATO should not induct former Soviet countries into the European military alliance referring to Ukraine. Watch: Afghanistan and now Ukraine...Is US about to lose its hegemony? "Ukraine still has Soviet technologies and the means of delivery of such weapons. We cannot fail to respond to this real danger," Lavrov said. Earlier, UK PM Boris Johnson said that the country has a tradition of "welcoming" people from war zone. "Individual Ukrainians can be sponsored also by NGOs and private bodies," he said. Also Read in Pics: US F-35 vs Russian Air Force SU-57 jets, who wins? "Vladimir Putin has also underestimated the unity and resolve of the West and of the rest of the world," while adding,"We will keep up the economic pressure... it is plainly already having a dramatic effect. We are ready to intensify and to keep going for as long as it takes," Johnson said. Ukraine President Zelensky while addressing EU officials through a video link had hit out at Putin saying children were being attacked even as the Russian president called it a "military operation". (With inputs from Agencies)

'Will consider all options': UK ready to discuss evicting Russia from UNSC

It is day 5 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Armies of both countries have been involved in intense fights since Russian troops entered Ukraine. Now, UNSC calls rare emergency meeting of general assembly.

Day 5 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine: UNSC calls rare emergency meeting of general assembly

As fights continue and tensions escalate in Ukraine, the Western allies are stepping up diplomatic campaign to try and isolate Moscow, the UNSC has called for a rare general assembly meet.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: UNSC calls for special general assembly session

The UNSC is due to call for a vote for a rare emergency session of UNGA. The vote by the 15-member council is procedural. None of the 5 permanent council members can use veto power.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: UN Security Council due to vote to call for rare UNGA emergency session

In the vote for UN Security Council resolution by the US, India abstained as it called for the immediate cessation of hostilities.&nbsp;New Delhi also said that dialogue is the only answer to settle disputes. &nbsp;

The resolution looked to "deplore in the strongest terms" “Russia's aggression" against Ukraine. &nbsp;

On Friday afternoon, the 15-nation Security Council voted on the draft resolution by the US and Albania. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-conflict-us-eu-uk-sanction-russian-president-vladimir-putin-top-officials-456616">Ukraine conflict: US, EU, UK sanction Russian President, top officials</a>

It was co-sponsored by a "cross-regional" group of 67 UN member states, including Estonia, Finland, Australia, New Zealand, Italy, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Norway, Poland, Georgia, Germany, Romania and the United Kingdom. &nbsp;

China, India and the UAE abstained on the resolution. It received 11 votes in favour by Brazil, France, Ghana, Ireland, Mexico, Norway, Kenya, Albania, Gabon, the UK and the US. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The resolution was finally blocked as permanent member Russia, and President of the Security Council for the month of February, used its veto. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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"India is deeply disturbed by the recent turn of developments in Ukraine. We urge that all efforts are made for the immediate cessation of violence and hostilities," India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador T S Tirumurti said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Dialogue is the only answer to settling differences and disputes, however, daunting that may appear at this moment. It is a matter of regret that the path of diplomacy was given up. We must return to it. For all these reasons, India has chosen to abstain on this resolution," Tirumurti added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Tirumurti also said that India is "deeply concerned" about the welfare and security of the Indian community, which includes a large number of Indian students, in Ukraine. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In the vote for UN Security Council resolution by the US, India abstained as it called for the immediate cessation of hostilities. New Delhi also said that dialogue is the only answer to settle disputes.

In the vote for UN Security Council resolution by the US, India abstained as it called for the immediate cessation of hostilities. New Delhi also said that dialogue is the only answer to settle disputes. The resolution looked to "deplore in the strongest terms" “Russia's aggression" against Ukraine. On Friday afternoon, the 15-nation Security Council voted on the draft resolution by the US and Albania. Also Read | Ukraine conflict: US, EU, UK sanction Russian President, top officials It was co-sponsored by a "cross-regional" group of 67 UN member states, including Estonia, Finland, Australia, New Zealand, Italy, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Norway, Poland, Georgia, Germany, Romania and the United Kingdom. China, India and the UAE abstained on the resolution. It received 11 votes in favour by Brazil, France, Ghana, Ireland, Mexico, Norway, Kenya, Albania, Gabon, the UK and the US. The resolution was finally blocked as permanent member Russia, and President of the Security Council for the month of February, used its veto. Also Read: For 'censoring' domestic media, Russia partially limits access to Facebook "India is deeply disturbed by the recent turn of developments in Ukraine. We urge that all efforts are made for the immediate cessation of violence and hostilities," India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador T S Tirumurti said. "Dialogue is the only answer to settling differences and disputes, however, daunting that may appear at this moment. It is a matter of regret that the path of diplomacy was given up. We must return to it. For all these reasons, India has chosen to abstain on this resolution," Tirumurti added. Tirumurti also said that India is "deeply concerned" about the welfare and security of the Indian community, which includes a large number of Indian students, in Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine conflict: India abstains on UNSC resolution, says dialogue 'only answer' to settle disputes

West is trying to ramp up pressure on Russia. Moscow uses veto power to reject the UNSC resolution created to condemn the Russian invasion in Ukraine.

At UNSC, Russia rejects resolution. What China, India, UAE said | Russia-Ukraine crisis

Russia has vetoed the United Nations Security Council resolution over the Ukraine crisis. In the UNSC meeting, 11 members have voted in favor of the resolution.

The US to Russia: 'You can't veto our voices' as UNSC draft against Russia fails

Ukraine-Russia conflict: Why Russia vetoed UNSC resolution?

As tensions mount over the Ukraine crisis, the United Nations Security Council's emergency meeting on the crisis is underway. The member state will vote on a resolution condemning Russia.

Emergency UNSC meeting on Ukraine: Security Council to vote on a resolution condemning Russia

India called for 'restraint and talks' at the UN Security Council meeting on Ukraine. How long can India ignore Russia's unilateral moves in Europe? Should New Delhi rethink its ties with Russia? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: India urges 'restraint and talks' in eastern Ukraine

As tensions continue to escalate between Russia and Ukraine, India's permanent representative to UN TS Tirumurti has now said that escalation along the border is matter of a deep concern and diplomacy is the only solution.

UNSC Meet: 'Escalation of Russia-Ukraine crisis a matter of deep concern,' says India's TS Tirumurti

As Russia-Ukraine tensions continue to mount, India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations TS Tirumurti said that the increasing tension on Ukraine’s border with the Russian Federation is a matter of deep concern. He also added that these developments have weakened the peace and security of the region.

India at UNSC: Increasing tension on Ukraine’s border is a matter of deep concern

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) held an emergency meeting on Ukraine's situation as tensions between Moscow and Kyiv continue to mount. The session took place just after Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered recognition of the independence of separatist regions Donetsk and Luhansk in eastern Ukraine on Monday.

UNSC holds emergency meeting on Ukraine after Russia's latest action

Russia welcomed India’s “balanced, principled and independent approach” at the United Nations Security Council meeting even as Moscow and Washington squared off while discussing the Ukraine issue.

The reaction came a day after India at the USNC said that "quiet and constructive diplomacy" is the need of the hour and that any step that could escalate the tension should be avoided.

The issue can only be resolved through diplomatic dialogue, India said at the UN on Thursday.

“We welcome #India's balanced, principled and independent approach,” the Russian embassy tweeted while sharing a video clip from the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations in New York.

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We welcome <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>’s balanced, principled and independent approach 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/nnlSLQaVlN">https://t.co/nnlSLQaVlN</a>
— Russia in India 🇷🇺 (@RusEmbIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/RusEmbIndia/status/1494525904667566082?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador T S Tirumurti backed the implementation of the Minsk Agreements and talks under the Normandy Format, which involves Germany, Russia, Ukraine and France.

“We believe that the Minsk Agreements provide a basis for a negotiated and peaceful settlement of the situation in eastern Ukraine. All parties should continue to engage through all possible diplomatic channels and keep working towards the full implementation of the agreements,” he said.

The agreements provide a basis for a “negotiated and peaceful settlement” of the situation in Eastern Ukraine, he said.

He also noted that there were more than 20,000 Indians living and studying in various parts of Ukraine, adding that the India government places the “wellbeing” of its citizens at the highest priority.

The UNSC meeting was convened in the backdrop of high tensions between Russia and the West over border conflict with Ukraine.

&nbsp;In the meeting, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned that Russia is planning to manufacture “a pretext” to attack Ukraine.

“This could be a violent event that Russia will blame on Ukraine, or an outrageous accusation that Russia will level against the Ukrainian Government,” he said.

Moscow, however, dismissed the accusation made by the West.

Russia welcomed India’s “balanced, principled and independent approach” at the United Nations Security Council meeting even as Moscow and Washington squared off while discussing the Ukraine issue.

Russia welcomed India’s “balanced, principled and independent approach” at the United Nations Security Council meeting even as Moscow and Washington squared off while discussing the Ukraine issue. The reaction came a day after India at the USNC said that "quiet and constructive diplomacy" is the need of the hour and that any step that could escalate the tension should be avoided. The issue can only be resolved through diplomatic dialogue, India said at the UN on Thursday. “We welcome #India's balanced, principled and independent approach,” the Russian embassy tweeted while sharing a video clip from the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations in New York. We welcome #India’s balanced, principled and independent approach 🙏 https://t.co/nnlSLQaVlN — Russia in India 🇷🇺 (@RusEmbIndia) February 18, 2022 × India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador T S Tirumurti backed the implementation of the Minsk Agreements and talks under the Normandy Format, which involves Germany, Russia, Ukraine and France. “We believe that the Minsk Agreements provide a basis for a negotiated and peaceful settlement of the situation in eastern Ukraine. All parties should continue to engage through all possible diplomatic channels and keep working towards the full implementation of the agreements,” he said. The agreements provide a basis for a “negotiated and peaceful settlement” of the situation in Eastern Ukraine, he said. He also noted that there were more than 20,000 Indians living and studying in various parts of Ukraine, adding that the India government places the “wellbeing” of its citizens at the highest priority. The UNSC meeting was convened in the backdrop of high tensions between Russia and the West over border conflict with Ukraine. In the meeting, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned that Russia is planning to manufacture “a pretext” to attack Ukraine. “This could be a violent event that Russia will blame on Ukraine, or an outrageous accusation that Russia will level against the Ukrainian Government,” he said. Moscow, however, dismissed the accusation made by the West.

Ukraine crisis: Russia ‘welcomes’ India’s ‘principled and independent’ approach at UN

At the United Nations Security Council meeting on the Ukraine crisis, India reiterated that the “wellbeing” of its citizens is a priority for New Delhi when it comes to the precarious situation.

India has around 20,000 nationals in the country, most of them are students perusing medical education.

Speaking at the security council meeting under Russia’s presidency, Indian envoy to United Nations TS Tirumurti called for “immediate de-escalation of tensions” asking the member countries to take into “account the legitimate security interests of all countries and aimed towards securing long-term peace and stability in the region and beyond.”

This is the second meeting that was called in to discuss the Ukraine issue. It is taking place in the backdrop of the Minsk agreement.

At the meeting, India backed the implementation of the Minsk pact and talks under the Normandy Format.

The Indian envoy said, "We believe that the Minsk Agreements provide a basis for a negotiated and peaceful settlement of the situation in eastern Ukraine. All parties should continue to engage through all possible diplomatic channels and keep working towards the full implementation of the agreements.”

The Minsk Protocol is an agreement that came into being in 2014-15 in an attempt to defuse the war in eastern Ukraine regions of Donetsk and Luhansk.

The agreement seeks to halt the conflict that began when Russia-backed separatists seized swaths of territory following Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimean.

Russia, Ukraine, and the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe are part of the agreement.

The Normandy Format is an extension of the Minsk pact which focuses on implementing the agreements,

Germany, France and members of the Minsk pact are part of the Normandy format talks.

Calling for the early implementat9ion of the Minsk pact, Tirumurti said, “We believe that meetings under the Normandy Format will further facilitate the implementation of the provisions of the Minsk Agreements, including its key security and political aspects.”

He also welcomed the recent meetings of the Political Advisers of Normandy Format countries in Paris and Berlin.

"Any steps that increase tension may best be avoided by all sides in the larger interest of securing international peace and security,” he said while supporting “quiet and constructive diplomacy”.

Thursday's UNSC meeting saw a lot of friction between Russia and the US. In the meeting, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned that Russia is planning to manufacture “a pretext” to attack Ukraine.

“This could be a violent event that Russia will blame on Ukraine, or an outrageous accusation that Russia will level against the Ukrainian Government,” he said.

Moscow, however, dismissed the West’s accusation. Russia was represented by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin.

Notably, Vershinin visited Delhi a few weeks ago to brief India about the ongoing crisis in eastern Europe.

The last UNSC meeting happened in January under Norway's presidency of the council.

While no procedural vote occurred in Thursday's meeting, the January meeting saw 10 out of 15 countries in the council voting in support of having an open discussion on Ukraine, whereas three countries abstained, including India. Two countries, Russia and China, voted against the proposal.

At the United Nations Security Council meeting on the Ukraine crisis, India reiterated that the “wellbeing” of its citizens is a priority for New Delhi when it comes to the precarious situation.

At the United Nations Security Council meeting on the Ukraine crisis, India reiterated that the “wellbeing” of its citizens is a priority for New Delhi when it comes to the precarious situation. India has around 20,000 nationals in the country, most of them are students perusing medical education. Speaking at the security council meeting under Russia’s presidency, Indian envoy to United Nations TS Tirumurti called for “immediate de-escalation of tensions” asking the member countries to take into “account the legitimate security interests of all countries and aimed towards securing long-term peace and stability in the region and beyond.” This is the second meeting that was called in to discuss the Ukraine issue. It is taking place in the backdrop of the Minsk agreement. At the meeting, India backed the implementation of the Minsk pact and talks under the Normandy Format. The Indian envoy said, "We believe that the Minsk Agreements provide a basis for a negotiated and peaceful settlement of the situation in eastern Ukraine. All parties should continue to engage through all possible diplomatic channels and keep working towards the full implementation of the agreements.” The Minsk Protocol is an agreement that came into being in 2014-15 in an attempt to defuse the war in eastern Ukraine regions of Donetsk and Luhansk. The agreement seeks to halt the conflict that began when Russia-backed separatists seized swaths of territory following Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimean. Russia, Ukraine, and the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe are part of the agreement. The Normandy Format is an extension of the Minsk pact which focuses on implementing the agreements, Germany, France and members of the Minsk pact are part of the Normandy format talks. Calling for the early implementat9ion of the Minsk pact, Tirumurti said, “We believe that meetings under the Normandy Format will further facilitate the implementation of the provisions of the Minsk Agreements, including its key security and political aspects.” He also welcomed the recent meetings of the Political Advisers of Normandy Format countries in Paris and Berlin. "Any steps that increase tension may best be avoided by all sides in the larger interest of securing international peace and security,” he said while supporting “quiet and constructive diplomacy”. Thursday's UNSC meeting saw a lot of friction between Russia and the US. In the meeting, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned that Russia is planning to manufacture “a pretext” to attack Ukraine. “This could be a violent event that Russia will blame on Ukraine, or an outrageous accusation that Russia will level against the Ukrainian Government,” he said. Moscow, however, dismissed the West’s accusation. Russia was represented by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin. Notably, Vershinin visited Delhi a few weeks ago to brief India about the ongoing crisis in eastern Europe. The last UNSC meeting happened in January under Norway's presidency of the council. While no procedural vote occurred in Thursday's meeting, the January meeting saw 10 out of 15 countries in the council voting in support of having an open discussion on Ukraine, whereas three countries abstained, including India. Two countries, Russia and China, voted against the proposal.

At UNSC meet on Ukraine , India says 'wellbeing' of its nationals is a priority

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken addressed the United Nations Security Council regarding Russia's threat to peace and security and informed that Moscow is planning to manufacture a pretext to attack Ukraine.

Russia plans to manufacture pretext to attack Ukraine, says US State Secy Antony Blinken

The United States on Thursday informed the members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) that Russia is finding ways to attack Ukraine, adding that over 150,000 Russian troops manning borders are preparing to attack its neighbour.

Addressing the diplomatic meeting on the Ukraine crisis, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that Moscow is on the precipice of launching a war.

“As we meet today, the most immediate threat to peace and security is Russia's looming aggression against Ukraine,” Blinken said.

“Russia says it's drawing down those forces. We do not see that happening on the ground. Our information indicates clearly that these forces including ground troops, aircraft, ships are preparing to launch an attack against Ukraine in the coming days,” he added.

Blinken said Russia has already “identified and mapped out in detailed plans” targets that it plans to advance on if Moscow decides to launch a military invasion of Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/node/454139" hreflang="en">Hope India sides with America if Russia invades Ukraine, says US</a>

“This crisis directly affects every member of this Council and every country in the world because the basic principles that sustain peace and security, principles that were enshrined in the wake of two world wars and a Cold War, are under threat,” he said.

He urged urges Russia to “abandon path of war” against Ukraine and to choose a different path “while there's still time.”

During his speech, Blinken invited Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to meet in Europe 'next week' over Ukraine crisis.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-west-must-not-be-fooled-by-russias-claims-uk-foreign-secretary-liz-truss-454005">The West must not be fooled by Russia's claims: UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss</a>

Russia hit back at US saying that West was responsible for the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, adding that it wants a "war” with Moscow.

"The only goal of the West is to organise a war. If this is not the case, then the puppet govt of Ukraine would have been compelled to implement the Minsk agreement a long time ago. Since this is not taking place, we can state that the West wants a war with Russia", it said at UNSC.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Thursday informed the members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) that Russia is finding ways to attack Ukraine, adding that over 150,000 Russian troops manning borders are preparing to attack its neighbour.

The United States on Thursday informed the members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) that Russia is finding ways to attack Ukraine, adding that over 150,000 Russian troops manning borders are preparing to attack its neighbour. Addressing the diplomatic meeting on the Ukraine crisis, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that Moscow is on the precipice of launching a war. “As we meet today, the most immediate threat to peace and security is Russia's looming aggression against Ukraine,” Blinken said. “Russia says it's drawing down those forces. We do not see that happening on the ground. Our information indicates clearly that these forces including ground troops, aircraft, ships are preparing to launch an attack against Ukraine in the coming days,” he added. Blinken said Russia has already “identified and mapped out in detailed plans” targets that it plans to advance on if Moscow decides to launch a military invasion of Ukraine. Also read | Hope India sides with America if Russia invades Ukraine, says US “This crisis directly affects every member of this Council and every country in the world because the basic principles that sustain peace and security, principles that were enshrined in the wake of two world wars and a Cold War, are under threat,” he said. He urged urges Russia to “abandon path of war” against Ukraine and to choose a different path “while there's still time.” During his speech, Blinken invited Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to meet in Europe 'next week' over Ukraine crisis. Also read | The West must not be fooled by Russia's claims: UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss Russia hit back at US saying that West was responsible for the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, adding that it wants a "war” with Moscow. "The only goal of the West is to organise a war. If this is not the case, then the puppet govt of Ukraine would have been compelled to implement the Minsk agreement a long time ago. Since this is not taking place, we can state that the West wants a war with Russia", it said at UNSC. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine crisis: At UNSC, US and Russia accuse each other of drumming up ‘war’ hysteria

Amid a discussion in the United Nations Security Council, India called for a 'Quiet & Constructive Diplomacy' to resolve issues and tensions between Ukraine, Russia and the West.

India calls for 'Quiet & Constructive Diplomacy' on Ukraine, Russia conflict

Ukraine on Wednesday initiated a discussion at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) about a recent statement made by Russian President Vladimir Putin on Donbass region. The 15-member council is all set to meet today to discuss the Ukraine crisis.

Ukraine calls for UNSC to discuss Donbass

The 15-member United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to meet today to discuss the Ukraine crisis. Ukraine has called for the UNSC to discuss Donbass.

United Nations Security Council to meet today to discuss Ukraine crisis

The chair of the United Nations Security Council's counter-terror committee Ambassador T S Tirumurti has expressed concerns over links between Taliban, Al Qaida, and Pakistan-based terror groups such as Lashkar e-Tayyiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed.

Links between Taliban and LeT, JeM concerning, says UNSC's counter terror committee chair Tirumurti

The chair of the United Nations Security Council's counter-terror committee Ambassador T S Tirumurti has expressed concerns over links between Taliban, Al Qaida, and Pakistan-based terror groups such as Lashkar e-Tayyiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed.

Speaking at a meet of the committee in his capacity as the chair, Ambassador T S Tirumurti said, "The linkages between the Taliban, Al-Qaida, and terrorist entities proscribed by the Security Council, such as Lashkar e-Tayyiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, are a further source of concern", highlighting, " serious concern remains that Afghanistan may become a safe haven for Al Qaida and a number of terrorist groups in the region."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-detain-29-women-and-their-families-in-kabul-claims-us-diplomat-452857" hreflang="en">Taliban detain 29 women and their families in Kabul, claims US diplomat</a>

The Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) was established by Security Council resolution 1373 (2001), which was adopted unanimously on 28 September 2001 in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks in the United States. The Committee is made up of all 15 Security Council members. &nbsp;Speaking on the " consequential change" in Afghanistan in August 2021, the chair said, "the Taliban’s rise to power in Afghanistan poses a complex security threat outside the region" particularly in "parts of Africa, where terrorist groups may try to emulate the Taliban’s example."&nbsp;

Monday's meeting focused on South and southeast Asia and the chair statement explained that since "military defeat in the conflict zones of the Middle East" ISIL and Al-Qaida "have been seeking to establish a foothold in both South and South-East Asia."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-army-abducting-people-across-balochistan-in-crackdown-to-avenge-attacks-452416" hreflang="en">Pakistani army abducting people across Balochistan to avenge attacks</a>

The region has seen a number of major terror attacks which were mentioned during the address. These included the 2019 Colombo attacks, the 2019 Pulwama terror attack perpetrated by Jaish E Mohammed, the 2020 Gurudwara attack in Kabul by IS-Khorasan, 2021 Kabul airport attack. The Committee has held an informal meeting on community engagement to counter-terrorism in South and South-East Asia in June 2018.

Indian envoy to UN T. S. Tirumurti was appointed the chair of the key UNSC committee on January 13, 2022 for a period of one year. The committee is tasked with undertaking steps like criminalizing financing of terrorism, sharing information with governments&nbsp;planning terror acts, etc. During the address, he also raised the issue of "misuse of information and communications technologies (ICT)" and "use of drones for cross-border trafficking of arms, drugs and launching terror attacks" which remain an "issue of serious concern."

Tirumurti in the capacity of the Indian envoy to the UN also paid homage to the Indian security personnel who died in the Pulwama terror attack 3 years ago on February 14, 2019.&nbsp;

The chair of the United Nations Security Council's counter-terror committee Ambassador T S Tirumurti has expressed concerns over links between Taliban, Al Qaida, and Pakistan-based terror groups such as Lashkar e-Tayyiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. Speaking at a meet of the committee in his capacity as the chair, Ambassador T S Tirumurti said, "The linkages between the Taliban, Al-Qaida, and terrorist entities proscribed by the Security Council, such as Lashkar e-Tayyiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, are a further source of concern", highlighting, " serious concern remains that Afghanistan may become a safe haven for Al Qaida and a number of terrorist groups in the region." Also read | Taliban detain 29 women and their families in Kabul, claims US diplomat The Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) was established by Security Council resolution 1373 (2001), which was adopted unanimously on 28 September 2001 in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks in the United States. The Committee is made up of all 15 Security Council members. Speaking on the " consequential change" in Afghanistan in August 2021, the chair said, "the Taliban’s rise to power in Afghanistan poses a complex security threat outside the region" particularly in "parts of Africa, where terrorist groups may try to emulate the Taliban’s example." Monday's meeting focused on South and southeast Asia and the chair statement explained that since "military defeat in the conflict zones of the Middle East" ISIL and Al-Qaida "have been seeking to establish a foothold in both South and South-East Asia." Also read | Pakistani army abducting people across Balochistan to avenge attacks The region has seen a number of major terror attacks which were mentioned during the address. These included the 2019 Colombo attacks, the 2019 Pulwama terror attack perpetrated by Jaish E Mohammed, the 2020 Gurudwara attack in Kabul by IS-Khorasan, 2021 Kabul airport attack. The Committee has held an informal meeting on community engagement to counter-terrorism in South and South-East Asia in June 2018. Indian envoy to UN T. S. Tirumurti was appointed the chair of the key UNSC committee on January 13, 2022 for a period of one year. The committee is tasked with undertaking steps like criminalizing financing of terrorism, sharing information with governments planning terror acts, etc. During the address, he also raised the issue of "misuse of information and communications technologies (ICT)" and "use of drones for cross-border trafficking of arms, drugs and launching terror attacks" which remain an "issue of serious concern." Tirumurti in the capacity of the Indian envoy to the UN also paid homage to the Indian security personnel who died in the Pulwama terror attack 3 years ago on February 14, 2019.

Taliban, Al Qaida & LeT, JeM links concerning, says UNSC's counter terror committee chair Tirumurti

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