US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is to visit Brussels on Monday to discuss "pressing matters" including Iran, a State Department official said Sunday.

As a result, the top US diplomat is scrapping a stop expected on Monday in Moscow.

But he will still head to the Russian Black Sea resort of Sochi on Tuesday to meet President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, the official added just before Pompeo left Washington.

An EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting is scheduled in Brussels on Monday, but the State Department did not offer specific details of Pompeo's revised agenda.

It simply said talks would be held with officials from France, the UK and Germany -- the three European signatories to the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.

Iran announced on May 8, one year after the US withdrew from the deal, that it was suspending some of its commitments under the agreement.&nbsp;

President Hassan Rouhani issued an ultimatum to the Europeans, threatening that Iran would go further if they fail to deliver sanctions relief to counterbalance US President Donald Trump's renewed assault on the Iranian economy within 60 days.

The European powers rejected that ultimatum.

The US has continued to build pressure on Iran, with Pompeo accusing Tehran of planning "imminent" attacks.

The Pentagon announced Friday that it is deploying an amphibious assault ship and a Patriot missile battery to the Middle East to bolster an aircraft carrier force sent to counter alleged threats from Iran.

Pompeo has already cancelled in recent days trips to Berlin and Greenland to focus on the Iran issue.

In Moscow, Pompeo had been due to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier dedicated to Soviet troops killed in World War II -- an era when Moscow and Washington were allied.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is to visit Brussels on Monday to discuss "pressing matters" including Iran, a State Department official said Sunday. As a result, the top US diplomat is scrapping a stop expected on Monday in Moscow.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is to visit Brussels on Monday to discuss "pressing matters" including Iran, a State Department official said Sunday. As a result, the top US diplomat is scrapping a stop expected on Monday in Moscow. But he will still head to the Russian Black Sea resort of Sochi on Tuesday to meet President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, the official added just before Pompeo left Washington. An EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting is scheduled in Brussels on Monday, but the State Department did not offer specific details of Pompeo's revised agenda. It simply said talks would be held with officials from France, the UK and Germany -- the three European signatories to the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Iran announced on May 8, one year after the US withdrew from the deal, that it was suspending some of its commitments under the agreement. President Hassan Rouhani issued an ultimatum to the Europeans, threatening that Iran would go further if they fail to deliver sanctions relief to counterbalance US President Donald Trump's renewed assault on the Iranian economy within 60 days. The European powers rejected that ultimatum. The US has continued to build pressure on Iran, with Pompeo accusing Tehran of planning "imminent" attacks. The Pentagon announced Friday that it is deploying an amphibious assault ship and a Patriot missile battery to the Middle East to bolster an aircraft carrier force sent to counter alleged threats from Iran. Pompeo has already cancelled in recent days trips to Berlin and Greenland to focus on the Iran issue. In Moscow, Pompeo had been due to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier dedicated to Soviet troops killed in World War II -- an era when Moscow and Washington were allied.

US state secretary Pompeo to visit Brussels Monday to discuss Iran: Official

Mike Pompeo leaves Moscow out of Russia Visit. He is heading to Russia after visit to Brussels

Pompeo leaves Moscow out of Russia Visit

Saudi Arabia said Monday two of its oil tankers were damaged in "sabotage attacks" in the Gulf as tensions soared in a region already shaken by a standoff between the United States and Iran.

It came as US Secretary of State <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-state-secretary-pompeo-to-visit-brussels-monday-to-discuss-iran-official-218245">Mike Pompeo scrapped a planned visit to Moscow</a> to head to Brussels instead for talks with European officials on Iran.

Tehran called for an investigation into the "alarming" attacks and warned of "adventurism" by foreign players to disrupt maritime security.

The United States has already <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sends-assault-ship-missiles-to-mideast-amid-iran-threat-217663">strengthened its military presence</a> in the region, including deploying a number of strategic B-52 bombers in response to alleged Iranian threats.

Saudi Arabia, the Islamic Republic's regional arch-rival, condemned "the acts of sabotage which targeted commercial and civilian vessels near the territorial waters of the United Arab Emirates," a foreign ministry source said.

"This criminal act constitutes a serious threat to the security and safety of maritime navigation and adversely impacts regional and international peace and security," the source added.

The UAE said on Sunday that four commercial vessels of various nationalities had been targeted by acts of sabotage off the emirate of Fujairah.

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Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih said the two tankers suffered "significant damage" but there were no casualties or any oil spill.

"Two Saudi oil tankers were subjected to a sabotage attack in the exclusive economic zone of the United Arab Emirates, off the coast of the Emirate of Fujairah, while on their way to cross into the Arabian Gulf," the SPA state news agency quoted Falih as saying.

Fujairah port is the only terminal in the UAE located on the Arabian Sea coast, bypassing the Strait of Hormuz, through which most Gulf oil exports pass.

Iran has repeatedly threatened to close the strait in case of a military confrontation with the United States.

One of the two tankers that was attacked was on its way to be loaded with crude oil from a Saudi oil terminal for customers in the United States, Falih said.

'Serious development'

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-says-four-ships-targeted-by-sabotage-operations-near-fujairah-port-218224">UAE did not accuse anyone of responsibility</a> but warned that "carrying out acts of sabotage on commercial and civilian vessels and threatening the safety and lives of those on board is a serious development".

No one was hurt and Abu Dhabi called on world powers to help keep maritime traffic safe.

Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi expressed concern over the incident and its possible consequences.

"The incidents in the Sea of Oman are alarming and regrettable," Mousavi said in an English-language statement on the ministry's website.

He also "warned against plots by ill-wishers to disrupt regional security" and "called for the vigilance of regional states in the face of any adventurism by foreign elements", the statement added.

Almost all the oil exports of Saudi Arabia, Iraq, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar and Iran itself, at least 15 million barrels per day, are shipped through the Strait of Hormuz.

The Saudi minister denounced the attack on the vessels, saying it "aims to undermine the freedom of maritime navigation and the security of oil supplies to consumers all over the world."

He also urged the international community to "protect the safety of maritime navigation and the security of oil tankers, to mitigate against the adverse consequences of such incidents on energy markets, and the danger they pose to the global economy."

The UAE had earlier categorically denied reported on social media of massive explosions in oil tankers in the emirate.

The Pentagon said Friday that it was deploying an amphibious assault ship and a Patriot missile battery to the Middle East to bolster an aircraft carrier force sent to counter alleged Iranian threats.

The increasing tensions come after Tehran said Wednesday it had stopped respecting limits on its nuclear activities agreed under a 2015 deal with major powers.

Iran said it was responding to the sweeping unilateral sanctions that Washington has reimposed since it quit the agreement one year ago, which have dealt a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/move-on-nuclear-curbs-shows-iran-not-in-position-of-weakness-says-lawmaker-218222">severe blow to the Iranian economy</a>.

Pompeo revised his travel plans to include a visit to Brussels on Monday to hold talks with French, British and German officials on "pressing matters" including Iran, a State Department official said

As a result, the top US diplomat is scrapping a stop expected on Monday in Moscow, but will still head to the Russian Black Sea resort of Sochi on Tuesday to meet President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

Saudi Arabia said Monday two of its oil tankers were damaged in "sabotage attacks" in the Gulf as tensions soared in a region already shaken by a standoff between the United States and Iran.

Saudi Arabia said Monday two of its oil tankers were damaged in "sabotage attacks" in the Gulf as tensions soared in a region already shaken by a standoff between the United States and Iran. It came as US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo scrapped a planned visit to Moscow to head to Brussels instead for talks with European officials on Iran. Tehran called for an investigation into the "alarming" attacks and warned of "adventurism" by foreign players to disrupt maritime security. The United States has already strengthened its military presence in the region, including deploying a number of strategic B-52 bombers in response to alleged Iranian threats. Saudi Arabia, the Islamic Republic's regional arch-rival, condemned "the acts of sabotage which targeted commercial and civilian vessels near the territorial waters of the United Arab Emirates," a foreign ministry source said. "This criminal act constitutes a serious threat to the security and safety of maritime navigation and adversely impacts regional and international peace and security," the source added. The UAE said on Sunday that four commercial vessels of various nationalities had been targeted by acts of sabotage off the emirate of Fujairah. × Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih said the two tankers suffered "significant damage" but there were no casualties or any oil spill. "Two Saudi oil tankers were subjected to a sabotage attack in the exclusive economic zone of the United Arab Emirates, off the coast of the Emirate of Fujairah, while on their way to cross into the Arabian Gulf," the SPA state news agency quoted Falih as saying. Fujairah port is the only terminal in the UAE located on the Arabian Sea coast, bypassing the Strait of Hormuz, through which most Gulf oil exports pass. Iran has repeatedly threatened to close the strait in case of a military confrontation with the United States. One of the two tankers that was attacked was on its way to be loaded with crude oil from a Saudi oil terminal for customers in the United States, Falih said. 'Serious development' The UAE did not accuse anyone of responsibility but warned that "carrying out acts of sabotage on commercial and civilian vessels and threatening the safety and lives of those on board is a serious development". No one was hurt and Abu Dhabi called on world powers to help keep maritime traffic safe. Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi expressed concern over the incident and its possible consequences. "The incidents in the Sea of Oman are alarming and regrettable," Mousavi said in an English-language statement on the ministry's website. He also "warned against plots by ill-wishers to disrupt regional security" and "called for the vigilance of regional states in the face of any adventurism by foreign elements", the statement added. Almost all the oil exports of Saudi Arabia, Iraq, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar and Iran itself, at least 15 million barrels per day, are shipped through the Strait of Hormuz. The Saudi minister denounced the attack on the vessels, saying it "aims to undermine the freedom of maritime navigation and the security of oil supplies to consumers all over the world." He also urged the international community to "protect the safety of maritime navigation and the security of oil tankers, to mitigate against the adverse consequences of such incidents on energy markets, and the danger they pose to the global economy." The UAE had earlier categorically denied reported on social media of massive explosions in oil tankers in the emirate. The Pentagon said Friday that it was deploying an amphibious assault ship and a Patriot missile battery to the Middle East to bolster an aircraft carrier force sent to counter alleged Iranian threats. The increasing tensions come after Tehran said Wednesday it had stopped respecting limits on its nuclear activities agreed under a 2015 deal with major powers. Iran said it was responding to the sweeping unilateral sanctions that Washington has reimposed since it quit the agreement one year ago, which have dealt a severe blow to the Iranian economy. Pompeo revised his travel plans to include a visit to Brussels on Monday to hold talks with French, British and German officials on "pressing matters" including Iran, a State Department official said As a result, the top US diplomat is scrapping a stop expected on Monday in Moscow, but will still head to the Russian Black Sea resort of Sochi on Tuesday to meet President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

Two Saudi tankers came under 'sabotage attack' off UAE; no casualties

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is heading to Russia with an unusual and thankless task -- standing firm against the rival power even as his boss, President Donald Trump, reaches out to reconcile.

Pompeo will meet Tuesday with Putin in the Black Sea resort of Sochi, in the highest-level US engagement with the Russian leader since a July summit in Helsinki after which Trump faced wide scorn at home for his trustful embrace of the Russian leader.&nbsp;

The top US diplomat's trip comes less than two months after Special Counsel Robert Mueller wound up an investigation that found that Russia interfered in the 2016 presidential election -- but that the Trump campaign did not collude with Moscow.

After spending the first two years of his presidency under the cloud of Mueller's probe, Trump chatted for more than an hour by telephone with Putin on May 3, in what he hailed as a "very positive" conversation.

Trump said that Putin had assured him that Russia was not involved in Venezuela -- directly contradicting Pompeo and other top officials who for weeks have demanded that Moscow stop backing leftist leader Nicolas Maduro, whom Washington is trying to topple.

Venezuela is only one of a slew of issues where the United States and Russia have clashed.

Others include the Syrian war, arms control commitments and the conflict in Ukraine, where Western powers have been attempting for five years to little avail to end Moscow's support for armed separatists.

Jonathan Katz, a former US official focused on Central and Eastern Europe, believed that Russia was looking to see if the end of Mueller's probe would allow a new beginning with Trump, whom Putin supported over Hillary Clinton in 2016.

"I think this is Moscow testing whether there is a new modus operandi in Washington, (after) the release of the Mueller report," said Katz, now a senior fellow at The German Marshall Fund of the United States.

Despite heading the US government, Trump is a major outlier in Washington, with virtually all senior administration officials including Pompeo and lawmakers across party lines advocating a harder stance on Russia, including sanctions over election interference and its 2014 takeover of Crimea from Ukraine.

For Pompeo, "it's incredibly difficult because the interlocutors on the other side don't know who speaks for the United States," Katz said.

Progress sought on arms control

A State Department official said Pompeo, who will also meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov for the second time in as many weeks, would push for progress in particular in one area -- arms control.

The New START treaty, which caps the number of nuclear warheads well below Cold War limits, is set to expire in 2021 and Trump has called for a broader successor that will include a rising China.

Even Pompeo has acknowledged that those goals may be too optimistic. Another key accord, the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces treaty, just collapsed, with the United States pulling out over charges that a new Russian missile system violated it.

Despite deep rifts on many hotspots, the State Department official said that Russia and the United States, if not seeing eye-to-eye, had developed "constructive" relationships on Afghanistan and North Korea.

"It is in our interest to have a better relationship with Russia," the official told reporters on condition of anonymity.

"Where we have concerns, we're going to raise them directly, narrow those differences and find areas where we can cooperate to protect and advance our interests."

But Victoria Nuland, who championed a tough line on Russia as an assistant secretary of state during Barack Obama's administration, voiced doubt on whether hopes for a better relationship could be realized under Putin's increasingly autocratic rule.

She said that a "lack of leadership, unity and consistency" in the United States was the greatest challenge to countering a resurgent Russia.

"What we don't know, and what we have to continue to test, is whether Russian President Putin truly wants to improve relations," she recently testified before the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

"It may well be that his psychology and leadership model are too dependent on an enemy abroad to change course -- and we have to steel ourselves for what may be a very long game that outlasts Putin."

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is heading to Russia with an unusual and thankless task -- standing firm against the rival power even as his boss, President Donald Trump, reaches out to reconcile.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is heading to Russia with an unusual and thankless task -- standing firm against the rival power even as his boss, President Donald Trump, reaches out to reconcile. Pompeo will meet Tuesday with Putin in the Black Sea resort of Sochi, in the highest-level US engagement with the Russian leader since a July summit in Helsinki after which Trump faced wide scorn at home for his trustful embrace of the Russian leader. The top US diplomat's trip comes less than two months after Special Counsel Robert Mueller wound up an investigation that found that Russia interfered in the 2016 presidential election -- but that the Trump campaign did not collude with Moscow. After spending the first two years of his presidency under the cloud of Mueller's probe, Trump chatted for more than an hour by telephone with Putin on May 3, in what he hailed as a "very positive" conversation. Trump said that Putin had assured him that Russia was not involved in Venezuela -- directly contradicting Pompeo and other top officials who for weeks have demanded that Moscow stop backing leftist leader Nicolas Maduro, whom Washington is trying to topple. Venezuela is only one of a slew of issues where the United States and Russia have clashed. Others include the Syrian war, arms control commitments and the conflict in Ukraine, where Western powers have been attempting for five years to little avail to end Moscow's support for armed separatists. Jonathan Katz, a former US official focused on Central and Eastern Europe, believed that Russia was looking to see if the end of Mueller's probe would allow a new beginning with Trump, whom Putin supported over Hillary Clinton in 2016. "I think this is Moscow testing whether there is a new modus operandi in Washington, (after) the release of the Mueller report," said Katz, now a senior fellow at The German Marshall Fund of the United States. Despite heading the US government, Trump is a major outlier in Washington, with virtually all senior administration officials including Pompeo and lawmakers across party lines advocating a harder stance on Russia, including sanctions over election interference and its 2014 takeover of Crimea from Ukraine. For Pompeo, "it's incredibly difficult because the interlocutors on the other side don't know who speaks for the United States," Katz said. Progress sought on arms control A State Department official said Pompeo, who will also meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov for the second time in as many weeks, would push for progress in particular in one area -- arms control. The New START treaty, which caps the number of nuclear warheads well below Cold War limits, is set to expire in 2021 and Trump has called for a broader successor that will include a rising China. Even Pompeo has acknowledged that those goals may be too optimistic. Another key accord, the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces treaty, just collapsed, with the United States pulling out over charges that a new Russian missile system violated it. Despite deep rifts on many hotspots, the State Department official said that Russia and the United States, if not seeing eye-to-eye, had developed "constructive" relationships on Afghanistan and North Korea. "It is in our interest to have a better relationship with Russia," the official told reporters on condition of anonymity. "Where we have concerns, we're going to raise them directly, narrow those differences and find areas where we can cooperate to protect and advance our interests." But Victoria Nuland, who championed a tough line on Russia as an assistant secretary of state during Barack Obama's administration, voiced doubt on whether hopes for a better relationship could be realized under Putin's increasingly autocratic rule. She said that a "lack of leadership, unity and consistency" in the United States was the greatest challenge to countering a resurgent Russia. "What we don't know, and what we have to continue to test, is whether Russian President Putin truly wants to improve relations," she recently testified before the House Foreign Affairs Committee. "It may well be that his psychology and leadership model are too dependent on an enemy abroad to change course -- and we have to steel ourselves for what may be a very long game that outlasts Putin."

Mike Pompeo heads to Russia as US diplomacy turns schizophrenic

Russian President Vladimir Putin hit the ice on Friday in a hockey game in which he showed off his puck-handling skills and scored eight goals -- a display that reinforced his image as a man of action.

A judo black belt, Putin has long been keen to show off his athletic prowess, including by working out with Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, hitting the ski slopes in Sochi or diving to the bottom of the Black Sea.

Skating alongside Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Russian hockey greats such as Pavel Bure and Igor Larionov, Putin helped his side to an emphatic 14-7 win in the Night Hockey League.

Playing centre forward, Putin was provided with plenty of scoring opportunities by his linemates and was met with little resistance by the opposing team's defence.

After winning the match, celebrating along with his teammates, Putin took a fall during his victory lap.

The 66-year-old appeared in good spirits after tripping on a red mat laid on the ice and was helped up by his fellow teammates.

Putin, whose approval ratings have slipped in recent years as Russia battles economic woes, periodically plays hockey with government officials, businessmen and former National Hockey League (NHL) stars in matches that are broadcast with pomp on national television.

After opening the scoring unassisted by beating the goaltender 2 minutes into the game, the 66-year-old added seven more goals, making him the top scorer.

Russian President Vladimir Putin hit the ice on Friday in a hockey game in which he showed off his puck-handling skills and scored eight goals -- a display that reinforced his image as a man of action.

Russian President Vladimir Putin hit the ice on Friday in a hockey game in which he showed off his puck-handling skills and scored eight goals -- a display that reinforced his image as a man of action. A judo black belt, Putin has long been keen to show off his athletic prowess, including by working out with Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, hitting the ski slopes in Sochi or diving to the bottom of the Black Sea. Skating alongside Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Russian hockey greats such as Pavel Bure and Igor Larionov, Putin helped his side to an emphatic 14-7 win in the Night Hockey League. Playing centre forward, Putin was provided with plenty of scoring opportunities by his linemates and was met with little resistance by the opposing team's defence. After winning the match, celebrating along with his teammates, Putin took a fall during his victory lap. The 66-year-old appeared in good spirits after tripping on a red mat laid on the ice and was helped up by his fellow teammates. Putin, whose approval ratings have slipped in recent years as Russia battles economic woes, periodically plays hockey with government officials, businessmen and former National Hockey League (NHL) stars in matches that are broadcast with pomp on national television. After opening the scoring unassisted by beating the goaltender 2 minutes into the game, the 66-year-old added seven more goals, making him the top scorer.

Russian President Vladimir Putin scores eight goals in all-star hockey game

Russian president Vladimir Putin scored at least eight goals in an exhibition ice hockey game with former National Hockey League players at Sochi’s Bolshoy Ice Dome, then took a face-first spill while waving to the crowd during a post-game victory lap.

Vladimir Putin scores well in hockey exhibition, then falls on face

Putin's pet project: Aeroflot Sukhoi Superjet-100 was Russia's first civilian aircraft in post-Soviet era

The US President Donald Trump said on Friday that he discussed "the Russia Hoax" with Russian President Vladimir Putin but did not raise with his concerns about Russian meddling in US elections.

Trump and Putin spoke by phone for the first time since US Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report about Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential campaign was released. Mueller's report found that the Russian government had interfered in the election "in a sweeping and systematic fashion."

Trump, talking to reporters as he met Slovak Republic Prime Minister Peter Pellegrini, indicated that he and Putin only discussed Mueller's conclusion that Trump did not collude with Russia in 2016.

Trump said Putin seemed amused. "He said something to the effect that it started off as a mountain and it ended up being a mouse. But he knew that because he knew there was no collusion whatsoever," said Trump.

Pressed on whether he urged Putin not to meddle in the upcoming 2020 election when Trump will be seeking re-election, the president said the issue was not discussed.

"We didn't discuss that. Really, we didn't discuss it. We discussed five or six things," he said.

In a tweet, Trump said he and Putin talked about "the Russia Hoax," among other topics including nuclear arms, North Korea and Venezuela.

Trump has raised election meddling with Putin in past conversations but has tended to play down the impact of what happened in 2016 out of concern that his victory over Democrat Hillary Clinton might seem illegitimate.

White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders, asked by reporters on the White House driveway why Trump did not press Putin on the issue, said: "The president's been clear that no one needs to meddle in our election. He doesn't need to do that every two seconds."

The US President Donald Trump said on Friday that he discussed "the Russia Hoax" with Russian President Vladimir Putin but did not raise with his concerns about Russian meddling in US elections.

The US President Donald Trump said on Friday that he discussed "the Russia Hoax" with Russian President Vladimir Putin but did not raise with his concerns about Russian meddling in US elections. Trump and Putin spoke by phone for the first time since US Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report about Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential campaign was released. Mueller's report found that the Russian government had interfered in the election "in a sweeping and systematic fashion." Trump, talking to reporters as he met Slovak Republic Prime Minister Peter Pellegrini, indicated that he and Putin only discussed Mueller's conclusion that Trump did not collude with Russia in 2016. Trump said Putin seemed amused. "He said something to the effect that it started off as a mountain and it ended up being a mouse. But he knew that because he knew there was no collusion whatsoever," said Trump. Pressed on whether he urged Putin not to meddle in the upcoming 2020 election when Trump will be seeking re-election, the president said the issue was not discussed. "We didn't discuss that. Really, we didn't discuss it. We discussed five or six things," he said. In a tweet, Trump said he and Putin talked about "the Russia Hoax," among other topics including nuclear arms, North Korea and Venezuela. Trump has raised election meddling with Putin in past conversations but has tended to play down the impact of what happened in 2016 out of concern that his victory over Democrat Hillary Clinton might seem illegitimate. White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders, asked by reporters on the White House driveway why Trump did not press Putin on the issue, said: "The president's been clear that no one needs to meddle in our election. He doesn't need to do that every two seconds."

Trump says did not raise election meddling with Putin in phone call

Political unrest in Venezuela Continued once again. Watch this video to know more.

Political unrest in Venezuela continues

President Donald Trump said he briefly discussed special counsel Robert Mueller's report in a call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday, but didn't warn his Russian counterpart to not meddle in the next US election.

Trump-Putin discusses nuclear weapon, Venezuela, North Korea & Mueller Report on phone call

Opposition leader Juan Guaido will make a fresh bid on Saturday to rally Venezuela's armed forces behind him with protests at military bases in the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/political-unrest-in-venezuela-continues-215810&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiizICkuoHiAhVS4XMBHfRQBq0QFjAAegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2o5sjk_3rEjaBUXDTLPS8N">crisis-hit country.</a>

The protest call by Guaido -- the head of the National Assembly legislature, who is recognized as interim president by more than 50 countries -- comes just days after he urged the military to rise up against the socialist president, Nicolas Maduro.

"Peacefully, civically... we are going to deliver a simple document, a proclamation to the Armed Forces to listen to the Venezuelan call, that a rapid transition is possible to produce free elections," Guaido told a press conference in Caracas.

A small group of military personnel heeded Guaido's call to rise up on Tuesday, but the effort petered out, triggering two days of protests against the government in which four people were killed and several hundred injured.

Venezuela's military leadership has since reiterated its support for the government, and Maduro is standing his ground.

The country's attorney general Tarek William Saab said Friday that 18 arrest warrants had been issued for "civilian and military conspirators" following the failed uprising, with lieutenant colonels among the uniformed personnel being sought.

Tensions in Venezuela have soared since Guaido, the 35-year-old head of the National Assembly, invoked the constitution to declare himself acting president on January 23, claiming Maduro's re-election last year was illegitimate.

The standoff has drawn in major world powers, with the US throwing its support behind Guaido and Russia and China backing Maduro.

The United States has imposed tough sanctions and Trump has refused to take the threat of military action off the table, in an intensifying campaign to drive Maduro out.

But President Donald Trump adopted a strikingly conciliatory tone after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/very-positive-venezuela-talks-with-russian-president-putin-donald-trump-215772">more than an hour-long conversation with Vladimir Putin</a> on the Venezuela crisis, describing the Friday talks with his Russian counterpart as "very positive."&nbsp;

'People are starving'

"He is not looking at all to get involved in Venezuela other than he'd like to see something positive happen for Venezuela," Trump said of Putin.&nbsp;

"And I feel the same way. We want to get some humanitarian aid. Right now people are starving", Trump added.&nbsp;

Venezuela has suffered five years of recession marked by shortages of basic necessities as well as failing public services, including water, electricity and transport.

Trump's tone came in stark contrast to that of his top advisors, in particular, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo who charged this week that Maduro had been poised to flee to Cuba, but was talked out of it by the Russians.

US-Russian tensions have spiked over the months-long standoff in Venezuela, and the Kremlin's assessment of the Trump-Putin call differed substantially from that coming from the White House.

"Interference in internal affairs, attempts to change the leadership in Caracas through force, undermine the prospects for a peaceful settlement of the conflict," said a Russian statement.

"Vladimir Putin stated that only the Venezuelan people have the right to decide the future of their country," it added.

The United States is insisting Maduro's days are numbered, but experts say its options for breaking the stalemate are limited, and that Washington may have overestimated the opposition leader's strength.

Opposition leader Juan Guaido will make a fresh bid on Saturday to rally Venezuela's armed forces behind him with protests at military bases in the crisis-hit country.

Opposition leader Juan Guaido will make a fresh bid on Saturday to rally Venezuela's armed forces behind him with protests at military bases in the crisis-hit country. The protest call by Guaido -- the head of the National Assembly legislature, who is recognized as interim president by more than 50 countries -- comes just days after he urged the military to rise up against the socialist president, Nicolas Maduro. "Peacefully, civically... we are going to deliver a simple document, a proclamation to the Armed Forces to listen to the Venezuelan call, that a rapid transition is possible to produce free elections," Guaido told a press conference in Caracas. A small group of military personnel heeded Guaido's call to rise up on Tuesday, but the effort petered out, triggering two days of protests against the government in which four people were killed and several hundred injured. Venezuela's military leadership has since reiterated its support for the government, and Maduro is standing his ground. The country's attorney general Tarek William Saab said Friday that 18 arrest warrants had been issued for "civilian and military conspirators" following the failed uprising, with lieutenant colonels among the uniformed personnel being sought. Tensions in Venezuela have soared since Guaido, the 35-year-old head of the National Assembly, invoked the constitution to declare himself acting president on January 23, claiming Maduro's re-election last year was illegitimate. The standoff has drawn in major world powers, with the US throwing its support behind Guaido and Russia and China backing Maduro. The United States has imposed tough sanctions and Trump has refused to take the threat of military action off the table, in an intensifying campaign to drive Maduro out. But President Donald Trump adopted a strikingly conciliatory tone after a more than an hour-long conversation with Vladimir Putin on the Venezuela crisis, describing the Friday talks with his Russian counterpart as "very positive." 'People are starving' "He is not looking at all to get involved in Venezuela other than he'd like to see something positive happen for Venezuela," Trump said of Putin. "And I feel the same way. We want to get some humanitarian aid. Right now people are starving", Trump added. Venezuela has suffered five years of recession marked by shortages of basic necessities as well as failing public services, including water, electricity and transport. Trump's tone came in stark contrast to that of his top advisors, in particular, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo who charged this week that Maduro had been poised to flee to Cuba, but was talked out of it by the Russians. US-Russian tensions have spiked over the months-long standoff in Venezuela, and the Kremlin's assessment of the Trump-Putin call differed substantially from that coming from the White House. "Interference in internal affairs, attempts to change the leadership in Caracas through force, undermine the prospects for a peaceful settlement of the conflict," said a Russian statement. "Vladimir Putin stated that only the Venezuelan people have the right to decide the future of their country," it added. The United States is insisting Maduro's days are numbered, but experts say its options for breaking the stalemate are limited, and that Washington may have overestimated the opposition leader's strength.

Venezuela's Juan Guaido makes new bid to rally military support

Will opposition leader Juan Guaido topple Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro?

Russia on Tuesday accused Venezuela's <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-fully-supports-venezuelan-people-as-juan-guaido-calls-for-uprising-against-nicolas-maduro-214849&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwis1Ju7p_rhAhUBKo8KHdooCVwQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw22HMuleBrrHA4uSKE6FHoG">US-backed opposition leader Juan Guaido</a> of fomenting violence and urged talks after the self-proclaimed leader said troops had joined his campaign to oust President Nicolas Maduro.

The Russian's foreign ministry said it was important to avoid bloodletting as President Vladimir Putin discussed the unfolding crisis with members of his security council at the Kremlin.

"The radical opposition in<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-crisis-violence-rocks-nation-venezuelans-take-to-the-streets-for-maduro-uprising-214976&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjD_dbhp_rhAhUIrY8KHXhwBYwQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3yomi3fetOrqSh3u0Ay8z7"> Venezuela</a> has once again turned to heavy-handed methods of confrontation," the foreign ministry said in a statement, accusing <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/nicolas-maduro-addresses-venezuela-214926&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj28I7Tp_rhAhWLsY8KHdOvABoQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0VV8Gv7lctm3EAs5kg6uMh">Maduro's </a>opponents of "fuelling" conflict.

"It is important to avoid unrest and bloodletting," said the foreign ministry, urging talks between the conflicting sides.

"The problems Venezuela faces should be solved through responsible negotiations without pre-conditions," said the foreign ministry, warning that third countries should not interfere in the crisis.

Last month, Moscow sent troops and equipment to Venezuela, saying they would remain in the country "for as long as needed."

Tensions in crisis-stricken Venezuela have been ratcheted up to a critical level this year, after Guaido, who is head of the opposition-ruled National Assembly, announced in January that he was the acting president under the constitution.&nbsp;

He said Maduro had been fraudulently re-elected last year.

Maduro has presided over economic chaos, with the oil-rich country unable to provide basic medical and food supplies to much of the population.

Earlier Tuesday Guaido said troops had joined his campaign to oust Maduro while the government vowed to put down what it called an attempted coup.

Guaido is recognised by the United States and about 50 other governments but Moscow, along with China, backs Maduro.

Russia has accused Washington of seeking regime change in Venezuela.

Russia on Tuesday accused Venezuela's US-backed opposition leader Juan Guaido of fomenting violence and urged talks after the self-proclaimed leader said troops had joined his campaign to oust President Nicolas Maduro.

Russia on Tuesday accused Venezuela's US-backed opposition leader Juan Guaido of fomenting violence and urged talks after the self-proclaimed leader said troops had joined his campaign to oust President Nicolas Maduro. The Russian's foreign ministry said it was important to avoid bloodletting as President Vladimir Putin discussed the unfolding crisis with members of his security council at the Kremlin. "The radical opposition in Venezuela has once again turned to heavy-handed methods of confrontation," the foreign ministry said in a statement, accusing Maduro's opponents of "fuelling" conflict. "It is important to avoid unrest and bloodletting," said the foreign ministry, urging talks between the conflicting sides. "The problems Venezuela faces should be solved through responsible negotiations without pre-conditions," said the foreign ministry, warning that third countries should not interfere in the crisis. Last month, Moscow sent troops and equipment to Venezuela, saying they would remain in the country "for as long as needed." Tensions in crisis-stricken Venezuela have been ratcheted up to a critical level this year, after Guaido, who is head of the opposition-ruled National Assembly, announced in January that he was the acting president under the constitution. He said Maduro had been fraudulently re-elected last year. Maduro has presided over economic chaos, with the oil-rich country unable to provide basic medical and food supplies to much of the population. Earlier Tuesday Guaido said troops had joined his campaign to oust Maduro while the government vowed to put down what it called an attempted coup. Guaido is recognised by the United States and about 50 other governments but Moscow, along with China, backs Maduro. Russia has accused Washington of seeking regime change in Venezuela.

Russia accuses Venezuela's US-backed opposition leader Juan Guaido of 'fuelling' conflict

President-elect Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed an offer by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-thinking-of-simplifying-nationality-process-for-all-ukraine-vladimir-putin-213888">Vladimir Putin to provide passports to Ukrainians</a>, and pledged instead to grant citizenship to Russians who "suffer" under the Kremlin's rule.&nbsp;

The Russian president on Saturday said Moscow was considering plans to make it easier for all Ukrainians to obtain Russian citizenship, after it earlier moved to grant passports in the country's separatist east.&nbsp;

Kiev has been fighting Moscow-backed rebels in eastern Ukraine since 2014 in a war that has killed 13,000.

Zelensky, a comedian who won Ukraine's presidential election last week, responded to Putin's offer by releasing a statement on Facebook late on Saturday.

"We know perfectly well what a Russian passport provides," he said, listing "the right to be arrested for a peaceful protest" and "the right not to have free and competitive elections."

He pledged instead to "give citizenship to representatives of all nations that suffer from authoritarian and corrupt regimes.

"But first and foremost to the Russian people who suffer most of all".

He said that one of the differences between Ukraine and Russia is that "we Ukrainians have freedom of speech, freedom of the media and the internet in our country."&nbsp;

A political novice, Zelensky has pledged to "reboot" peace talks with the separatists that also involve Russia and the West.&nbsp;

Putin has not congratulated Zelensky on his election, but said he is ready to talk with a new Ukrainian leadership and wants to "understand" the actor's position on the conflict.&nbsp;

In his Facebook post, Zelensky warned Russia not to talk with Ukraine "in the language of threats or military or economic pressure."&nbsp;

He previously called for more international sanctions against Moscow in response to Russia providing citizenship to residents of Ukraine's separatist east.&nbsp;

The EU also condemned Moscow's passport scheme, calling it a fresh assault on Ukraine's sovereignty and saying Russia sought to "destabilise" Ukraine after its presidential election.&nbsp;

Putin's decree last week allows people living in Ukraine's unrecognised Donetsk and Lugansk breakaway republics to receive a Russian passport within three months of applying for one.

Zelensky is due to take office by early June. &nbsp;

President-elect Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed an offer by Vladimir Putin to provide passports to Ukrainians, and pledged instead to grant citizenship to Russians who "suffer" under the Kremlin's rule.

President-elect Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed an offer by Vladimir Putin to provide passports to Ukrainians, and pledged instead to grant citizenship to Russians who "suffer" under the Kremlin's rule. The Russian president on Saturday said Moscow was considering plans to make it easier for all Ukrainians to obtain Russian citizenship, after it earlier moved to grant passports in the country's separatist east. Kiev has been fighting Moscow-backed rebels in eastern Ukraine since 2014 in a war that has killed 13,000. Zelensky, a comedian who won Ukraine's presidential election last week, responded to Putin's offer by releasing a statement on Facebook late on Saturday. "We know perfectly well what a Russian passport provides," he said, listing "the right to be arrested for a peaceful protest" and "the right not to have free and competitive elections." He pledged instead to "give citizenship to representatives of all nations that suffer from authoritarian and corrupt regimes. "But first and foremost to the Russian people who suffer most of all". He said that one of the differences between Ukraine and Russia is that "we Ukrainians have freedom of speech, freedom of the media and the internet in our country." A political novice, Zelensky has pledged to "reboot" peace talks with the separatists that also involve Russia and the West. Putin has not congratulated Zelensky on his election, but said he is ready to talk with a new Ukrainian leadership and wants to "understand" the actor's position on the conflict. In his Facebook post, Zelensky warned Russia not to talk with Ukraine "in the language of threats or military or economic pressure." He previously called for more international sanctions against Moscow in response to Russia providing citizenship to residents of Ukraine's separatist east. The EU also condemned Moscow's passport scheme, calling it a fresh assault on Ukraine's sovereignty and saying Russia sought to "destabilise" Ukraine after its presidential election. Putin's decree last week allows people living in Ukraine's unrecognised Donetsk and Lugansk breakaway republics to receive a Russian passport within three months of applying for one. Zelensky is due to take office by early June.

Ukraine President-elect Zelenskiy laughs off Putin's plans to give Russian passports to Ukrainians

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Monday that Russians and Ukrainians would only benefit from sharing common citizenship, the Interfax news agency reported.

Putin said on Saturday Moscow was considering offering all Ukrainian citizens fast-tracked Russian passports, a move that angered some politicians in Ukraine which has been at war with pro-Russian separatists since 2014.

Putin has already signed an order to simplify the procedure for obtaining a Russian passport for residents of separatist-controlled eastern Ukraine, prompting calls from Kiev for more international sanctions.

Kiev has been fighting Moscow-backed rebels in eastern Ukraine since 2014 in a war that has killed 13,000.

President-elect Volodymyr Zelensky, a comedian who won Ukraine's presidential election last week, responded to Putin's offer by releasing a statement on Facebook late on Saturday.

"We know perfectly well what a Russian passport provides," he said, listing "the right to be arrested for a peaceful protest" and "the right not to have free and competitive elections."

He pledged instead to "give citizenship to representatives of all nations that suffer from authoritarian and corrupt regimes.

"But first and foremost to the Russian people who suffer most of all".

He said that one of the differences between Ukraine and Russia is that "we Ukrainians have freedom of speech, freedom of the media and the internet in our country."&nbsp;

A political novice, Zelensky has pledged to "reboot" peace talks with the separatists that also involve Russia and the West.&nbsp;

Putin has not congratulated Zelensky on his election but said he is ready to talk with new Ukrainian leadership and wants to "understand" the actor's position on the conflict.&nbsp;

In his Facebook post, Zelensky warned Russia not to talk with Ukraine "in the language of threats or military or economic pressure."&nbsp;

He previously called for more international sanctions against Moscow in response to Russia providing citizenship to residents of Ukraine's separatist east.&nbsp;

The EU also condemned Moscow's passport scheme, calling it a fresh assault on Ukraine's sovereignty and saying Russia sought to "destabilise" Ukraine after its presidential election.&nbsp;

Putin's decree last week allows people living in Ukraine's unrecognised Donetsk and Lugansk breakaway republics to receive a Russian passport within three months of applying for one.

Zelensky is due to take office by early June. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Monday that Russians and Ukrainians would only benefit from sharing common citizenship, the Interfax news agency reported.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Monday that Russians and Ukrainians would only benefit from sharing common citizenship, the Interfax news agency reported. Putin said on Saturday Moscow was considering offering all Ukrainian citizens fast-tracked Russian passports, a move that angered some politicians in Ukraine which has been at war with pro-Russian separatists since 2014. Putin has already signed an order to simplify the procedure for obtaining a Russian passport for residents of separatist-controlled eastern Ukraine, prompting calls from Kiev for more international sanctions. Kiev has been fighting Moscow-backed rebels in eastern Ukraine since 2014 in a war that has killed 13,000. President-elect Volodymyr Zelensky, a comedian who won Ukraine's presidential election last week, responded to Putin's offer by releasing a statement on Facebook late on Saturday. "We know perfectly well what a Russian passport provides," he said, listing "the right to be arrested for a peaceful protest" and "the right not to have free and competitive elections." He pledged instead to "give citizenship to representatives of all nations that suffer from authoritarian and corrupt regimes. "But first and foremost to the Russian people who suffer most of all". He said that one of the differences between Ukraine and Russia is that "we Ukrainians have freedom of speech, freedom of the media and the internet in our country." A political novice, Zelensky has pledged to "reboot" peace talks with the separatists that also involve Russia and the West. Putin has not congratulated Zelensky on his election but said he is ready to talk with new Ukrainian leadership and wants to "understand" the actor's position on the conflict. In his Facebook post, Zelensky warned Russia not to talk with Ukraine "in the language of threats or military or economic pressure." He previously called for more international sanctions against Moscow in response to Russia providing citizenship to residents of Ukraine's separatist east. The EU also condemned Moscow's passport scheme, calling it a fresh assault on Ukraine's sovereignty and saying Russia sought to "destabilise" Ukraine after its presidential election. Putin's decree last week allows people living in Ukraine's unrecognised Donetsk and Lugansk breakaway republics to receive a Russian passport within three months of applying for one. Zelensky is due to take office by early June.

Vladimir Putin says Russians and Ukrainians would benefit from shared citizenship

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/china-president-xi-jinping-sends-congratulations-on-inauguration-of-belt-and-road-studies-network-213383&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwic6o-Uv-_hAhXGfn0KHTi7C0sQFjAIegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2uXy34qTnwoBtC52QSo4Dg">Chinese President Xi Jinping</a> urged dozens of world leaders on Saturday to reject protectionism and invited more countries to participate in his global infrastructure project after seeking to ease concerns surrounding the programme.

Addressing 37 leaders from Europe, Africa, Asia and Latin America, Xi made a new pitch for his cherished<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-president-xi-defends-belt-and-road-says-not-exclusive-club-213575&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwic6o-Uv-_hAhXGfn0KHTi7C0sQFjAJegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1XNKVrmHouJAvlZikr8Vv_"> Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) </a>as he kicked off the last day of a three-day forum.

The world's number two economy has been fighting a festering trade war with the United States for months, and Xi has long sought to take the mantle of the new world power open to multilateral cooperation and globalisation.

"We need to build an open world economy and reject protectionism," Xi told leaders including Russian President Vladimir Putin, Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte and Pakistan's Imran Khan seated around a large round table at the idyllic Yanqi Lake retreat at the edge of Beijing.

A draft communique for the forum seen by AFP similarly pledges to "reject protectionism" and "unilateralism" in an oblique swipe at President Donald Trump's "America first" presidency. US officials were not sent to the summit.

Xi's signature foreign policy aims to reinvent the ancient Silk Road to connect Asia to Europe and Africa through massive investments in maritime, road and rail projects -- with hundreds of billions of dollars in financing from Chinese banks.

"We need to encourage the full participation of more countries and companies, thus expanding the pie of common interests," Xi said.&nbsp;

But critics say BRI is a plan to boost Beijing's global influence, riddled with opaque deals favouring Chinese companies and saddling nations with debt and environmental damage.

The United States, India and some European nations have looked at the project with suspicion.

Rising resistance&nbsp;

So far Chinese companies and workers have emerged as the primary beneficiaries as they are tapped to build the China-financed infrastructure in other developing countries.

BRI projects have faced pushback in some countries. In Malaysia, Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad cancelled some planned works and renegotiated a rail project cutting 30 per cent off the price tag.

But Mohamad and other leaders attending the summit had fulsome praise for BRI.

The draft communique says BRI will welcome developed countries and international investors to participate in the projects.

Xi batted away some concerns at the opening ceremony Friday, saying the BRI will have "zero tolerance" for corruption while vowing to ensure the financial sustainability of projects and further open China's economy.

"Faced with this rising resistance for the past year and a half and this debt image ... China is trying to reposition (BRI) and send a reassuring message," said Nadege Rolland, a senior fellow at the National Bureau of Asian Research, a US-based think tank.

But "let's see how it is put into practice," she said.

China's finance ministry released guidelines Thursday for assessing financial risk and debt sustainability to apply to projects in BRI countries.

But the document notes that countries already facing payment problems or in the process of restructuring payments "does not automatically mean that debt is unsustainable in a forward-looking sense."

During a state banquet Friday night, Xi called on attending world leaders to band together in the face of setbacks.

"Certainly, while building the Belt and Road Initiative, we will face difficulties and there will be twists and turns," he said.

"No matter a smooth or challenging way, we need to continue the spirit of partnership, not forget our initial intention of cooperation and move forward unwaveringly," he said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping urged dozens of world leaders on Saturday to reject protectionism and invited more countries to participate in his global infrastructure project after seeking to ease concerns surrounding the programme.

Chinese President Xi Jinping urged dozens of world leaders on Saturday to reject protectionism and invited more countries to participate in his global infrastructure project after seeking to ease concerns surrounding the programme. Addressing 37 leaders from Europe, Africa, Asia and Latin America, Xi made a new pitch for his cherished Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as he kicked off the last day of a three-day forum. The world's number two economy has been fighting a festering trade war with the United States for months, and Xi has long sought to take the mantle of the new world power open to multilateral cooperation and globalisation. "We need to build an open world economy and reject protectionism," Xi told leaders including Russian President Vladimir Putin, Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte and Pakistan's Imran Khan seated around a large round table at the idyllic Yanqi Lake retreat at the edge of Beijing. A draft communique for the forum seen by AFP similarly pledges to "reject protectionism" and "unilateralism" in an oblique swipe at President Donald Trump's "America first" presidency. US officials were not sent to the summit. Xi's signature foreign policy aims to reinvent the ancient Silk Road to connect Asia to Europe and Africa through massive investments in maritime, road and rail projects -- with hundreds of billions of dollars in financing from Chinese banks. "We need to encourage the full participation of more countries and companies, thus expanding the pie of common interests," Xi said. But critics say BRI is a plan to boost Beijing's global influence, riddled with opaque deals favouring Chinese companies and saddling nations with debt and environmental damage. The United States, India and some European nations have looked at the project with suspicion. Rising resistance So far Chinese companies and workers have emerged as the primary beneficiaries as they are tapped to build the China-financed infrastructure in other developing countries. BRI projects have faced pushback in some countries. In Malaysia, Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad cancelled some planned works and renegotiated a rail project cutting 30 per cent off the price tag. But Mohamad and other leaders attending the summit had fulsome praise for BRI. The draft communique says BRI will welcome developed countries and international investors to participate in the projects. Xi batted away some concerns at the opening ceremony Friday, saying the BRI will have "zero tolerance" for corruption while vowing to ensure the financial sustainability of projects and further open China's economy. "Faced with this rising resistance for the past year and a half and this debt image ... China is trying to reposition (BRI) and send a reassuring message," said Nadege Rolland, a senior fellow at the National Bureau of Asian Research, a US-based think tank. But "let's see how it is put into practice," she said. China's finance ministry released guidelines Thursday for assessing financial risk and debt sustainability to apply to projects in BRI countries. But the document notes that countries already facing payment problems or in the process of restructuring payments "does not automatically mean that debt is unsustainable in a forward-looking sense." During a state banquet Friday night, Xi called on attending world leaders to band together in the face of setbacks. "Certainly, while building the Belt and Road Initiative, we will face difficulties and there will be twists and turns," he said. "No matter a smooth or challenging way, we need to continue the spirit of partnership, not forget our initial intention of cooperation and move forward unwaveringly," he said.

China's Xi says to reject protectionism, open up Belt and Road

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/west-asia/vladimir-putin-says-russia-and-syria-are-not-planning-assault-on-idlib-for-now-213904">Russia and Syria are not planning assault on Idlib for now: Vladimir Putin</a>

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday he did not rule out Syrian forces, backed by Russian air power, launching a full-scale assault on militants in Syria's Idlib province, but that such an operation was unpractical for now.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-says-more-nations-joining-belt-and-road-64-billion-in-deals-signed-at-summit-213907">Xi Jinping says more nations joining Belt and Road, $64 billion in deals signed at summit</a>

Chinese President Xi Jinping said Saturday $64 billion in deals were signed at a summit on his Belt and Road Initiative and more nations would join the global infrastructure programme as he sought to ease concerns over the colossal project.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/would-like-to-see-resolution-of-political-difficulties-between-india-and-pakistan-turkish-presidents-senior-advisor-to-wion-213921">Would like to see resolution of political difficulties between India and Pakistan: Turkish president's senior advisor to WION</a>

Senior advisor to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was in New Delhi on Friday. In a conversation with WION, Ibrahim Kalin noted that terrorism is a global phenomenon, therefore merits a global response.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-thinking-of-simplifying-nationality-process-for-all-ukraine-vladimir-putin-213888">Moscow 'thinking' of simplifying nationality process for all Ukraine: Vladimir Putin</a>

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Saturday Moscow was "thinking" of making it easier for all Ukrainians to obtain Russian citizenship after the Kremlin moved to grant passports in the country's separatist east, causing uproar in Kiev. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/are-congress-leaders-capable-of-removing-terrorism-naxalism-from-country-pm-modi-213916">Is Congress capable of removing terrorism, Naxalism from country? PM Modi</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday slammed the Congress party, questioning if the party and its leaders are capable of removing terrorism and Naxalism from the country.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Russia and Syria are not planning assault on Idlib for now: Vladimir Putin Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday he did not rule out Syrian forces, backed by Russian air power, launching a full-scale assault on militants in Syria's Idlib province, but that such an operation was unpractical for now.

Russia and Syria are not planning assault on Idlib for now: Vladimir Putin Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday he did not rule out Syrian forces, backed by Russian air power, launching a full-scale assault on militants in Syria's Idlib province, but that such an operation was unpractical for now. Xi Jinping says more nations joining Belt and Road, $64 billion in deals signed at summit Chinese President Xi Jinping said Saturday $64 billion in deals were signed at a summit on his Belt and Road Initiative and more nations would join the global infrastructure programme as he sought to ease concerns over the colossal project. Would like to see resolution of political difficulties between India and Pakistan: Turkish president's senior advisor to WION Senior advisor to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was in New Delhi on Friday. In a conversation with WION, Ibrahim Kalin noted that terrorism is a global phenomenon, therefore merits a global response. Moscow 'thinking' of simplifying nationality process for all Ukraine: Vladimir Putin Russian President Vladimir Putin said Saturday Moscow was "thinking" of making it easier for all Ukrainians to obtain Russian citizenship after the Kremlin moved to grant passports in the country's separatist east, causing uproar in Kiev. Is Congress capable of removing terrorism, Naxalism from country? PM Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday slammed the Congress party, questioning if the party and its leaders are capable of removing terrorism and Naxalism from the country.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday he did not rule out Syrian forces, backed by Russian air power, launching a full-scale assault on militants in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/army-shelling-kills-22-civilians-in-syrias-idlib-monitor-207943">Syria's Idlib province</a>, but that such an operation was unpractical for now.

Russia, one of the Syrian government’s staunchest allies, and Turkey brokered a deal in September to create a demilitarised zone in the northwest <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/istanbul-summit-france-will-ensure-ceasefire-in-idlib-remains-russia-to-discuss-return-of-refugees-to-syria-172313">Idlib</a> region that would be free of all heavy weapons and jihadist fighters.

The deal helped avert a government assault on the region, the last major bastion of opponents of President Bashar al-Assad.

But Moscow has since complained about escalating violence in the area and said that militants who used to belong to the Nusra Front group are in control of large swaths of territory.

Speaking in Beijing, Putin said that Moscow and Damascus would continue what he called the fight against terrorism and that any militants who tried to break out of Idlib, something he said happened from time to time, were bombed.

But Putin said the presence of civilians in parts of Idlib where militants were also active meant the time was not yet ripe for full-scale military operations.

"I don't rule it (a full-scale assault) out, but right now we and our Syrian friends consider that to be inadvisable given this humanitarian element," Putin told reporters.

Moscow is keen to help Assad retake territory, including eventually Idlib province, but Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has argued against a Russian-backed offensive in a region that borders his own country.

Ankara is concerned about potential refugee flows from Idlib in the event of a military operation, and wants to retain its influence there.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday he did not rule out Syrian forces, backed by Russian air power, launching a full-scale assault on militants in Syria's Idlib province, but that such an operation was unpractical for now.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday he did not rule out Syrian forces, backed by Russian air power, launching a full-scale assault on militants in Syria's Idlib province, but that such an operation was unpractical for now. Russia, one of the Syrian government’s staunchest allies, and Turkey brokered a deal in September to create a demilitarised zone in the northwest Idlib region that would be free of all heavy weapons and jihadist fighters. The deal helped avert a government assault on the region, the last major bastion of opponents of President Bashar al-Assad. But Moscow has since complained about escalating violence in the area and said that militants who used to belong to the Nusra Front group are in control of large swaths of territory. Speaking in Beijing, Putin said that Moscow and Damascus would continue what he called the fight against terrorism and that any militants who tried to break out of Idlib, something he said happened from time to time, were bombed. But Putin said the presence of civilians in parts of Idlib where militants were also active meant the time was not yet ripe for full-scale military operations. "I don't rule it (a full-scale assault) out, but right now we and our Syrian friends consider that to be inadvisable given this humanitarian element," Putin told reporters. Moscow is keen to help Assad retake territory, including eventually Idlib province, but Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has argued against a Russian-backed offensive in a region that borders his own country. Ankara is concerned about potential refugee flows from Idlib in the event of a military operation, and wants to retain its influence there.

Russia and Syria are not planning assault on Idlib for now: Vladimir Putin

Maria Butina, the only <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-agent-maria-butina-sentenced-to-18-months-213784">Russian arrested and convicted</a> in the three-year investigation of Moscow's interference in US politics, was sentenced on Friday to 18 months in prison.

The leader of a small Russian gun rights group, the 30-year-old Siberian native used her ties to the National Rifle Association to build a network of powerful Republican contacts.

She had admitted one count of conspiracy to act as an agent of a foreign government without registering -- a so-called "espionage-lite" charge the US has used before against alleged Russian spies.

Prosecutors said that although she worked openly and was not tied to any Russian intelligence agency, she was sending back reports to a high-level Russian government official and posed a threat to the United States.

"I humbly request forgiveness. I'm not this evil person depicted in the media," she told the court in Washington before her sentence was announced.

Dressed in a dark blue pajama-like prison uniform, her long red hair pulled behind her shoulders, Butina's voice broke as she addressed the court in fluent, Russian-accented English.

She told the court she had only wanted to work towards better US-Russian relations and would have registered as a foreign agent if she had known it was required by law.

Top Republicans

Moscow expressed outrage over the treatment of Butina, who was given credit for nine months already served and will be deported when she is released.

"The accusations brought against her, intended to influence the internal political process in the United States, are totally invented and fabricated," Russia's foreign ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

"Our compatriot was condemned just because she is a Russian citizen," it added.

On the sidelines of a summit in Beijing, Russian President Vladimir Putin called the conviction "arbitrary".

"There is nothing we could accuse her of, but to make this case not look completely ridiculous, she was sentenced to 18 months in prison," he said.

Butina's case played out against a backdrop of tension between Moscow and Washington over what US intelligence says was a concerted effort by Russian spies to interfere in the 2016 presidential election, using hacking and social media manipulation to help President Donald Trump to victory.

Special Counsel Robert Mueller charged 25 Russians with conspiracy for those activities, but, with all of them believed to be in Russia, none have been arrested.

US prosecutors acknowledged that Butina had nothing to do with those cases but alleged that she was part of a "spot-and-assess" operation to identify potential recruits.

A gun rights campaigner who attended NRA events and invited top gun lobby officials to Russia, she lived as a graduate student in Washington with her boyfriend, a Republican and NRA activist.&nbsp;

Her activities brought her in contact with top Republicans, including Trump at a rally in 2015, where she was chosen to ask the then-candidate about US-Russian relations.

Updates to Russia

Butina sent regular updates to her handler Alexander Torshin, at the time a senior Kremlin politician and central bank deputy governor who had accompanied her to NRA conventions.

"There is no doubt that she was not simply a graduate student," Assistant US Attorney Erik Kenerson told the court.

"She was simultaneously trying to make contacts... for the benefit of the Russian Federation."

Steven Hall, the CIA's former chief of Russian operations, said her operating in the open was simply an innovative tactic in Putin's "broader hybrid-warfare influence operation."&nbsp;

"She's part of the Kremlin's plan to try to weaken the United States and the West," he said.

Butina's lawyer Robert Driscoll, a prominent Republican attorney, said she had broken no law besides the registration statute, and would not have been pursued had she been of a different nationality.

It remained to be seen whether Butina's sentencing would impact the case of Paul Whelan, an American corporate security expert arrested while in Moscow for a wedding late last year and accused of espionage.

Some Russian experts said his arrest was retaliation for that of Butina, although Whelan's brother, David, has said he doesn't believe the cases are related.

But before Butina's sentencing Hall, who is no longer with the CIA, said Washington "has to take into account that they do have an American over there, and we have a Russian here."

"So is there not a deal to be had?" he said.

Maria Butina, the only Russian arrested and convicted in the three-year investigation of Moscow's interference in US politics, was sentenced on Friday to 18 months in prison.

Maria Butina, the only Russian arrested and convicted in the three-year investigation of Moscow's interference in US politics, was sentenced on Friday to 18 months in prison. The leader of a small Russian gun rights group, the 30-year-old Siberian native used her ties to the National Rifle Association to build a network of powerful Republican contacts. She had admitted one count of conspiracy to act as an agent of a foreign government without registering -- a so-called "espionage-lite" charge the US has used before against alleged Russian spies. Prosecutors said that although she worked openly and was not tied to any Russian intelligence agency, she was sending back reports to a high-level Russian government official and posed a threat to the United States. "I humbly request forgiveness. I'm not this evil person depicted in the media," she told the court in Washington before her sentence was announced. Dressed in a dark blue pajama-like prison uniform, her long red hair pulled behind her shoulders, Butina's voice broke as she addressed the court in fluent, Russian-accented English. She told the court she had only wanted to work towards better US-Russian relations and would have registered as a foreign agent if she had known it was required by law. Top Republicans Moscow expressed outrage over the treatment of Butina, who was given credit for nine months already served and will be deported when she is released. "The accusations brought against her, intended to influence the internal political process in the United States, are totally invented and fabricated," Russia's foreign ministry said in a statement. "Our compatriot was condemned just because she is a Russian citizen," it added. On the sidelines of a summit in Beijing, Russian President Vladimir Putin called the conviction "arbitrary". "There is nothing we could accuse her of, but to make this case not look completely ridiculous, she was sentenced to 18 months in prison," he said. Butina's case played out against a backdrop of tension between Moscow and Washington over what US intelligence says was a concerted effort by Russian spies to interfere in the 2016 presidential election, using hacking and social media manipulation to help President Donald Trump to victory. Special Counsel Robert Mueller charged 25 Russians with conspiracy for those activities, but, with all of them believed to be in Russia, none have been arrested. US prosecutors acknowledged that Butina had nothing to do with those cases but alleged that she was part of a "spot-and-assess" operation to identify potential recruits. A gun rights campaigner who attended NRA events and invited top gun lobby officials to Russia, she lived as a graduate student in Washington with her boyfriend, a Republican and NRA activist. Her activities brought her in contact with top Republicans, including Trump at a rally in 2015, where she was chosen to ask the then-candidate about US-Russian relations. Updates to Russia Butina sent regular updates to her handler Alexander Torshin, at the time a senior Kremlin politician and central bank deputy governor who had accompanied her to NRA conventions. "There is no doubt that she was not simply a graduate student," Assistant US Attorney Erik Kenerson told the court. "She was simultaneously trying to make contacts... for the benefit of the Russian Federation." Steven Hall, the CIA's former chief of Russian operations, said her operating in the open was simply an innovative tactic in Putin's "broader hybrid-warfare influence operation." "She's part of the Kremlin's plan to try to weaken the United States and the West," he said. Butina's lawyer Robert Driscoll, a prominent Republican attorney, said she had broken no law besides the registration statute, and would not have been pursued had she been of a different nationality. It remained to be seen whether Butina's sentencing would impact the case of Paul Whelan, an American corporate security expert arrested while in Moscow for a wedding late last year and accused of espionage. Some Russian experts said his arrest was retaliation for that of Butina, although Whelan's brother, David, has said he doesn't believe the cases are related. But before Butina's sentencing Hall, who is no longer with the CIA, said Washington "has to take into account that they do have an American over there, and we have a Russian here." "So is there not a deal to be had?" he said.

Russia expresses outrage over Maria Butina conviction; Putin says its 'arbitrary'

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Saturday Moscow was "thinking" of making it easier for all Ukrainians to obtain Russian citizenship after the Kremlin moved to grant passports in the country's separatist east, causing uproar in Kiev. &nbsp;

"We are actually thinking about providing citizenship in a simplified order to all citizens of Ukraine, not only residents of the Lugansk and Donetsk republics," Putin told the press during his visit to Beijing, referring to the unrecognised separatist republics governed by Moscow-backed rebels.&nbsp;

This week Putin signed a decree allowing people living in the breakaway regions to receive a Russian passport within three months of applying for one.&nbsp;

The move came just days after Ukraine elected comedian Volodymyr Zelensky as president. The actor, due to be inaugurated by early June, called for more international sanctions against Russia in response.

The European Union also condemned the move, calling it a fresh assault on Ukraine's sovereignty.&nbsp;

Putin on Saturday said he wanted to "understand" Zelensky's position on the conflict.&nbsp;

He did not exclude talks with the comedian -- a political novice -- with whom he is ready to "have a discussion." &nbsp;

The conflict between the Ukrainian government and breakaway rebels began after Moscow annexed Kiev's Crimea peninsula in 2014. The war has claimed some 13,000 lives.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Saturday Moscow was "thinking" of making it easier for all Ukrainians to obtain Russian citizenship after the Kremlin moved to grant passports in the country's separatist east, causing uproar in Kiev.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Saturday Moscow was "thinking" of making it easier for all Ukrainians to obtain Russian citizenship after the Kremlin moved to grant passports in the country's separatist east, causing uproar in Kiev. "We are actually thinking about providing citizenship in a simplified order to all citizens of Ukraine, not only residents of the Lugansk and Donetsk republics," Putin told the press during his visit to Beijing, referring to the unrecognised separatist republics governed by Moscow-backed rebels. This week Putin signed a decree allowing people living in the breakaway regions to receive a Russian passport within three months of applying for one. The move came just days after Ukraine elected comedian Volodymyr Zelensky as president. The actor, due to be inaugurated by early June, called for more international sanctions against Russia in response. The European Union also condemned the move, calling it a fresh assault on Ukraine's sovereignty. Putin on Saturday said he wanted to "understand" Zelensky's position on the conflict. He did not exclude talks with the comedian -- a political novice -- with whom he is ready to "have a discussion." The conflict between the Ukrainian government and breakaway rebels began after Moscow annexed Kiev's Crimea peninsula in 2014. The war has claimed some 13,000 lives.

Moscow 'thinking' of simplifying nationality process for all Ukraine: Vladimir Putin

Russia will not immediately raise oil output after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/donald-trumps-crackdown-on-irans-oil-exports-could-backfire-badly-with-serious-risks-to-global-economy-213229">United States ends sanctions waivers for buyers of Iranian crude</a> in May, President Vladimir Putin said Saturday.

The United States announced this week that, in a bid to reduce Iran's oil exports to zero, it would from May 2 end US waivers that countries such as India, China, South Korea and Turkey currently have on buying Iranian crude.

"We have an agreement with OPEC to maintain production at a certain level and this agreement is in force until July," Putin told reporters on the sidelines of a summit in Beijing.

"I can't imagine how the world energy market will react" after the waivers end in May, Putin said.

But, he added, "none of our partners, including Saudi Arabia, is withdrawing from our agreements within OPEC."

Saudi Arabia, the world's top crude exporter, has also said it had no immediate plans to raise oil output after the sanctions waivers end.

There had been speculation that Riyadh could step in to plug the gap left by the removal of Iranian crude.

Eight countries including China, India and Turkey had been given temporary waivers by the US when it reimposed sanctions on Iran last year.

The end of the exemptions sparked fears of supply shortages, pushing prices to near six-month highs.

Russia will not immediately raise oil output after the United States ends sanctions waivers for buyers of Iranian crude in May, President Vladimir Putin said Saturday.

Russia will not immediately raise oil output after the United States ends sanctions waivers for buyers of Iranian crude in May, President Vladimir Putin said Saturday. The United States announced this week that, in a bid to reduce Iran's oil exports to zero, it would from May 2 end US waivers that countries such as India, China, South Korea and Turkey currently have on buying Iranian crude. "We have an agreement with OPEC to maintain production at a certain level and this agreement is in force until July," Putin told reporters on the sidelines of a summit in Beijing. "I can't imagine how the world energy market will react" after the waivers end in May, Putin said. But, he added, "none of our partners, including Saudi Arabia, is withdrawing from our agreements within OPEC." Saudi Arabia, the world's top crude exporter, has also said it had no immediate plans to raise oil output after the sanctions waivers end. There had been speculation that Riyadh could step in to plug the gap left by the removal of Iranian crude. Eight countries including China, India and Turkey had been given temporary waivers by the US when it reimposed sanctions on Iran last year. The end of the exemptions sparked fears of supply shortages, pushing prices to near six-month highs.

Russia won't immediately raise oil output after Iran waivers end: Vladimir Putin

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-rejects-un-arms-trade-treaty-says-revoking-predecessors-signature-213808">US President Donald Trump</a>'s proposals on nuclear arms disarmament is "not serious," a Kremlin spokesman said on Saturday.

Trump has ordered his administration to prepare a push for new arms-control agreements with Russia and China citing the cost of the 21st-century nuclear arms race, The Washington Post reported on Thursday citing administration officials.

"It would be ideal to clean up the whole world from the nuclear weapon...but on the other hand we would have been deprived of the deterrent factor," Dmitry Peskov told reporters on the sidelines of a summit on China's Belt and Road plan. "Don't forget about the deterrent factor, about the deterrent parity," he said.

Peskov also said Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping held substantial talks and exchanged views on Syria, Venezuela and Libya when they met on Friday. 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump's proposals on nuclear arms disarmament is "not serious," a Kremlin spokesman said on Saturday. Trump has ordered his administration to prepare a push for new arms-control agreements with Russia and China citing the cost of the 21st-century nuclear arms race, The Washington Post reported on Thursday citing administration officials.

US President Donald Trump's proposals on nuclear arms disarmament is "not serious," a Kremlin spokesman said on Saturday. Trump has ordered his administration to prepare a push for new arms-control agreements with Russia and China citing the cost of the 21st-century nuclear arms race, The Washington Post reported on Thursday citing administration officials. "It would be ideal to clean up the whole world from the nuclear weapon...but on the other hand we would have been deprived of the deterrent factor," Dmitry Peskov told reporters on the sidelines of a summit on China's Belt and Road plan. "Don't forget about the deterrent factor, about the deterrent parity," he said. Peskov also said Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping held substantial talks and exchanged views on Syria, Venezuela and Libya when they met on Friday.

Trump proposals on nuclear arms disarmament 'not serious': Russia

Maria Butina, the only <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-delays-sentencing-of-russian-agent-butina-199942">Russian arrested and convicted</a> in the three-year investigation of Moscow's interference in US politics, was sentenced to 18 months in prison on Friday.

The leader of a small Russian gun rights group, Butina used her ties to the NRA firearms lobby to build a network of powerful Republican contacts.

"I humbly request forgiveness. I'm not this evil person depicted in the media," she told the court in Washington before she was sent down.

Butina was given the full term requested by prosecutors, however, after previously admitting one count of conspiracy to act as an agent of a foreign government without registering.&nbsp;

The 30-year-old faces another nine months in custody, having already served half her term.&nbsp;

Prosecutors said that although she worked openly and was not tied to any Russian intelligence agency, she was nevertheless a threat to the United States.

"I wanted a future here in international policy," she said, voice breaking. She added that she only wanted to work towards better US-Russian relations.

"If I had known to register as a foreign agent I would have done so," she told the court.

Maria Butina, the only Russian arrested and convicted in the three-year investigation of Moscow's interference in US politics, was sentenced to 18 months in prison on Friday.

Maria Butina, the only Russian arrested and convicted in the three-year investigation of Moscow's interference in US politics, was sentenced to 18 months in prison on Friday. The leader of a small Russian gun rights group, Butina used her ties to the NRA firearms lobby to build a network of powerful Republican contacts. "I humbly request forgiveness. I'm not this evil person depicted in the media," she told the court in Washington before she was sent down. Butina was given the full term requested by prosecutors, however, after previously admitting one count of conspiracy to act as an agent of a foreign government without registering. The 30-year-old faces another nine months in custody, having already served half her term. Prosecutors said that although she worked openly and was not tied to any Russian intelligence agency, she was nevertheless a threat to the United States. "I wanted a future here in international policy," she said, voice breaking. She added that she only wanted to work towards better US-Russian relations. "If I had known to register as a foreign agent I would have done so," she told the court.

Russian agent Maria Butina sentenced to 18 months in prison

North Korean leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-needs-security-guarantees-in-exchange-for-denuclearisation-says-putin-after-meeting-kim-213419">Kim Jong-un said during his summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin</a> peace and security on the Korean peninsula depend entirely on the future US attitude, North Korean state media KCNA said on Friday.

Kim's remarks were seen as keeping pressure on the United States to be more flexible in accepting Pyongyang's demands to ease sanctions, compared to the US stance during his unsuccessful second summit with US President Donald Trump in Hanoi in February.

The North Korean leader said at the time he would wait until the end of the year for the United States to become more flexible.

"The situation on the Korean peninsula and the region is now at a standstill and has reached a critical point where it may return to its original state as the US took a unilateral attitude in bad faith at the recent second DPRK-US summit talks," KCNA reported Kim as saying, using North Korea's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

"The DPRK will gird itself for every possible situation." Kim said.

Kim invited Putin to North Korea at a convenient time and Putin accepted, KCNA said.

There was no immediate comment on the summit from the US State Department but William Hagerty, the US ambassador to Japan, told a Washington think tank Kim’s contact with Russia and China was part of an effort to seek relief from international sanctions.

"The fact you see Kim Jong-un meeting with Vladimir Putin underscores the fact that the sanctions are working and the sanctions are putting extreme economic pressure on the North Korean regime," Hagerty said.

"What we see is an outreach to try to find a way to deal with it. There is a much simpler way to deal with it and that is to denuclearise," he said.

He said it was important the international community enforced UN sanctions against North Korea that were imposed because of Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programmes.

The first face-to-face talks between Putin and Kim, held on an island off the Russian Pacific city of Vladivostok on Thursday, did not appear to yield any major breakthrough.

The two leaders had an in-depth discussion on ways for their countries to promote strategic communication and tactical collaboration in the course of ensuring peace and security on the Korean peninsula and in the region, KCNA said.

Putin said he thought a deal on Pyongyang's nuclear programme was possible and that the way to get there was to move forward step by step in order to build trust.

But any US guarantees might need to be supported by the other nations involved in previous six-way talks on the nuclear issue, Putin said, which was seen as a way to use the summit to strengthen Russia's diplomatic clout as a global player.

Russia and North Korea agreed to take measures to further cooperate in trade, economy, science and technology, KCNA said.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un said during his summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin peace and security on the Korean peninsula depend entirely on the future US attitude, North Korean state media KCNA said on Friday.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un said during his summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin peace and security on the Korean peninsula depend entirely on the future US attitude, North Korean state media KCNA said on Friday. Kim's remarks were seen as keeping pressure on the United States to be more flexible in accepting Pyongyang's demands to ease sanctions, compared to the US stance during his unsuccessful second summit with US President Donald Trump in Hanoi in February. The North Korean leader said at the time he would wait until the end of the year for the United States to become more flexible. "The situation on the Korean peninsula and the region is now at a standstill and has reached a critical point where it may return to its original state as the US took a unilateral attitude in bad faith at the recent second DPRK-US summit talks," KCNA reported Kim as saying, using North Korea's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. "The DPRK will gird itself for every possible situation." Kim said. Kim invited Putin to North Korea at a convenient time and Putin accepted, KCNA said. There was no immediate comment on the summit from the US State Department but William Hagerty, the US ambassador to Japan, told a Washington think tank Kim’s contact with Russia and China was part of an effort to seek relief from international sanctions. "The fact you see Kim Jong-un meeting with Vladimir Putin underscores the fact that the sanctions are working and the sanctions are putting extreme economic pressure on the North Korean regime," Hagerty said. "What we see is an outreach to try to find a way to deal with it. There is a much simpler way to deal with it and that is to denuclearise," he said. He said it was important the international community enforced UN sanctions against North Korea that were imposed because of Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programmes. The first face-to-face talks between Putin and Kim, held on an island off the Russian Pacific city of Vladivostok on Thursday, did not appear to yield any major breakthrough. The two leaders had an in-depth discussion on ways for their countries to promote strategic communication and tactical collaboration in the course of ensuring peace and security on the Korean peninsula and in the region, KCNA said. Putin said he thought a deal on Pyongyang's nuclear programme was possible and that the way to get there was to move forward step by step in order to build trust. But any US guarantees might need to be supported by the other nations involved in previous six-way talks on the nuclear issue, Putin said, which was seen as a way to use the summit to strengthen Russia's diplomatic clout as a global player. Russia and North Korea agreed to take measures to further cooperate in trade, economy, science and technology, KCNA said.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un says peace on Korean peninsula depends on US attitude: State media

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